One of the sure signs of spring in Michiana are the home shows. We feature two more in this month’s edition, the Michiana Home Show at the Century Center in South Bend, and the BANCI show in the TRAC at Warsaw High School in Warsaw.
Both will feature an array of vendors and service providers as well as some fun events for attendees to participate in. If you can spare the time, check out both.
It’s been a hard winter with snow before Thanksgiving, a green Christmas and then a polar vortex that just seemed to hang over the
Lauren Zeugner, Editor Lzeugner@the-papers.com
area forever. Snow, ice and freezing temps can be hard on a home. We took a look at what to do if a winter storm or frigid temperatures did damage to your home.
And with spring right around the corner (it’s coming, I promise) Julie Young walks us through giving a room an update with a fresh coat of paint.
BethAnne Brink-Cox got in touch with Charity Showe who was featured rehabilitating an old home in Michiana House & Home in 2022. Showe gives us an update on what the house looks like now … All I can say is the photos are stunning.
And last but not least, I interviewed Janell Villalobos, a high school student from Elkhart,
who will be attending a national conference later this month in Washington, D.C. Villalobos is part of the Juntos program which is offered through the 4-H program at Purdue Extension.
Are you looking for something new to read? Check out this month’s Book Nook. This month’s Book Nook suggestions come from staff and Friends of the Library at the Syracuse Public Library. So be sure to check that out.
Enjoy the lengthening days and (hopefully soon) warmer temps as spring slowly crawls into the area. Maybe I’ll see you at one of the area home shows.
Enjoy!
From DRAB toFAB
A fresh coat of paint can transform a space
By Julie Young HomeLiving Feature Writer
It is a high-impact, low-cost, and relatively simple way to alter a space. It can add contrast, patterns and texture to a backdrop while also making a room feel larger or more intimate depending on the chosen hue. Although painting a room may seem like a daunting project, it typically takes less than a weekend and has the ability to completely transform the way you live and operate within an area.
Before you begin it’s best to consider the following:
Know your paint types
Go pro or DIY
Painting a room yourself can be a satisfying DIY project, but there are valid arguments for hiring a professional to get the job done. A professional painter will not only ensure that your walls are properly prepared, but they will also offer superior quality, speed and long-term value. They also offer warranties for any issues that may arise, or touch-ups that may be required. If you are looking to paint multiple rooms, spaces with high ceilings or are looking for a customized finish, consider hiring a professional painter.
Prepare to paint
If you are eager to tackle the project yourself, it is important to prepare for the job. Begin by clearing the room of any furniture that can be moved (and covering the pieces that remain), protect your floors by laying tarps on the ground and then remove all hardware from the walls. Clean your walls and repair any damage that you see. Don’t forget to fill all nail holes! Sand all rough surfaces and apply painter’s tape around the room prior to the priming and painting process.
When it comes to choosing a paint for your room, color is only half of the battle. It’s also important to know what kind of paint is best suited for your space. Looking to hide flaws? Choose eggshell or a matte finish. Kitchens, bathrooms and high-traffic areas should be covered in satin or semigloss so that they can be wiped down easily. Flat paint should be used for ceilings, while semi-gloss or highgloss should be used on doors and trim.
Avoid common mistakes
You know the saying, you get what you pay for? Don’t skimp when it comes to your painting process. Choose high-quality paint and supplies to ensure the best result. A lower quality paint typically requires additional coats, which does not save you money in the long run, and poor-quality supplies will result in brush bristles being left behind on your walls. Pay special attention to the roller nap and find one that is best suited for the job. Typically, a 3/8-inch nap is perfect for drywall. Take the time to learn a proper rolling technique, and remember that most jobs do require at least two coats, even if the can claims one coat coverage! Above all, don’t forget to clean your brushes and rollers properly and remove painter’s tape in a timely manner. n
If you are looking for a great DIY project this spring, painting a room will leave you with a satisfying sense of accomplishment while giving your room the refresh it deserves!
HOMELIVING
SURVIVING
the storm
By Julie Young HomeLiving Feature Writer
Although 2026 is only a few months old, Mother Nature has not been kind. Winter storms can cause sudden and stressful damage to homeowners, and it is important to know what to do if you notice that your home has been affected. Remember, acting quickly will not only protect your property, but will also strengthen any potential insurance claim.
WHAT IS COVERED?
According to the Indiana Department of Insurance, if you suspect your home has sustained winter storm damage, the first step is to contact your insurance agent to learn what your policy covers. If possible, take photos and videos of the damage and make any necessary repairs, but refrain from making any permanent repairs until your insurance company can evaluate the issue. (Be sure to keep all receipts!)
While policies vary, damage that is usually covered by one’s homeowners’ insurance include damage caused by wind, wind-driven rain, trees or fallen objects, as well as the collapse of structures due to ice and snow. Frozen pipes may not be covered, especially if the damage is due to negligence. Water damage as a result of a flood, removal of downed trees and food spoilage due to a power outage are usually not covered by one’s insurance policy. If someone slips on your property as a result of a winter storm, your homeowners’ policy may cover a portion of their medical bills, but you will want to double- check this with your agent.
THE PROS KNOW
Brian Antonides of ABC Supply in Goshen said ice dams are among the most common causes of winter storm damage. The ice builds up at the edge of the roof and gutters and then works its way back into the shingles, causing water leaks and other damage.
“Heavy, wet snow causes all kinds of problems,” he said. “It can weigh down tree limbs causing damage, cause backups in your gutters, issues with siding, you name it.”
Antonides said if you suspect you have extensive damage due to a winter storm, it is important to get a professional involved right away. He said property restoration companies can be an invaluable help when it comes to assessing the extent of the damage and creating a plan to make the necessary repairs.
“These guys have appraisers who have experience working with insurance companies and can help walk you through the whole process,” he said. “They can help stop an immediate problem and protect it from further damage before your insurance agent can get out on the scene.” n
POST-STORM CHECKLIST
Think your home made it safely through the winter storm? Be extra sure by using this handy checklist to survey any potential damage!
Roof. Winter storms can result in heavy snow that can cause your roof to collapse, remove shingles or allow moisture to seep in.
Windows. Temperature fluctuations can cause caulking to pull away and create drafts while heavy winds can cause branches and debris to break through.
Gutters. After a cold front, it is wise to make sure ice dams have not formed or that your gutters have not pulled away from your home.
Pipes. Check your pipes for ice and thaw them quickly so they will not burst.
Exteriors. Check your siding for any breech that may allow water to seep into your home.
Doors. Ice and snow can lead to mold and mildew which will ultimately rot wood on both doors and door frames.
Steps. Small cracks can become big problems over time so be sure to check your steps for any flaws that can lead to injury.
BANCI Home Show
offering new attractions, vendors and more
By BethAnne Brink-Cox HomeLiving Feature Writer
And this year brings not only new attractions, vendors and concessions, it also brings a new executive director, Jackie Wyatt. Let’s meet her! She said, “This is all new to me; however, I worked part-time in 2025 for BANCI, so I was able to get training on all of the events and the day-to-day activities.”
When you attend, you’re going to see people everywhere who are helping, not just attending. Everywhere you look, and even behind the scenes, Wyatt said, “Everyone working the show is a BANCI volunteer. We are so grateful to everyone who gives us some of their weekend time to make the show run smoothly. We start plan
asked what her favorite part of this show is? She had a great answer: “All of the different pieces of the building industry puzzle being represented in one place.” She went on to say, “We have several new things this year: A Builders Lounge will be at the show this year with our builder members taking shifts to have a presence at the show. They will be available to answer questions the attendees may have.
“Cash & Carry tables have been added to the show this year. This is open to crafters and anyone who might have items the attendees can purchase and take home with them.
“We have added some
When spring approaches, so too do the home shows around the area. It’s time for the BANCI – as in the Builders Association of North Central Indiana –Home & Outdoor Show, and it’s always a popular thing to do.
can come and enjoy the show. We will have a bounce house, face painting, Lowe’s Build-It workshops and a magic show for the kids.”
More? “We have added a couple more food options too. We will be adding Ben’s Pretzels, Pucker & Pop, Creighton’s Crazy Egg coffee & pastries, and Polski BBQ & Igloo Ice Cream will be back too.
“We will have lots of raffle prizes and a 50/50 cash prize attendees can purchase raffle tickets for. A portion of the proceeds will be donated back to our elementary schools in Kosciusko, Fulton and Marshall counties. These proceeds will be given to the school nurses to purchase hygiene items that a lot of children are in need of.”
Whew!
more than the previous year. With all of the new things added this year, we are hoping to appeal to a larger audience,” Wyatt explained.
It’s very user-friendly, too. “For the fifth year in a row we will be located in the TRAC at Warsaw High School. We have handicap parking close to the entrance, and ramps and an elevator are available for those who need them,”Wyatt said, then added, “I am very excited for the changes and the things that have been added this year. Even if you don’t own a home, there will still be plenty of other things to see and do at the show.”
So what more do you need to know? The show runs from 2-7 p.m. Friday, March 6, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 7.
BANCI 2026 HOME AND OUTDOOR SHOWWARSAW
BOOTH 58 & 59
BOOTH 29
BOOTH 36 & 37
BANCI Home Show
BOOTH
aroundmichiana
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.
MARCH 1-31 | SOUTH BEND SOUTH BEND FARMERS MARKET
Indoor market featuring homegrown produce, dairy products, meats, eggs, maple syrup, jams and jellies, handcrafts, artwork, jewelry and more.
7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday
Faith United Methodist Church, 22045 CR 18 Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at www.michianamastergardeners.com
MARCH 7-9 | WARSAW BANCI HOME & OUTDOOR SHOW
Warsaw Community High School TRAC, 1 Tiger Lane.
Show hours are noon to 6 p.m. Friday, March 7; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 8; noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 9 Admission and parking are free.
MARCH 13-15 | SOUTH BEND MICHIANA HOME SHOW
Century Center, 120 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
1-7 p.m. Friday, March 13; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 14; and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 15.
Admission is $10 there is also a parking fee to park in the Century Center parking lot.
MARCH 14 | NORTH WEBSTER KIDS BUSINESS FAIR
North Webster Community Center
310 N. Main. St.
MARCH 28 | SYRACUSE WATERFOWL FESTIVAL
Hosted by Chautauqua-Wawasee, Tippecanoe Audubon Society, Ducks Unlimited and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, this day long festival is dedicated to birds, waterfowl and conservation. The day will include guided birding experiences, hands-on activities, speaker series and more.
Oakwood Resort, 702 E. Lake View Road, Syracuse Preregistration is strongly encouraged. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at eventbrite.com/e/waterfowl-festival-tickets-1980631873250?aff=ebdssbdestsearch n
A host of local musicians and bands gather to pick, play and sing bluegrass, country and gospel in an informal jam session. Meets the first Thursday of the month. 6:30-9 p.m. Doc Able Pavilion 116 W. Waterford St. Downtown Wakarusa 1 block west of stop light. Free Admission, free will offering. (574) 862-2200 wakarusabluegrassjam.com
10 a.m.
MARCH 17 | GOSHEN ST. PATRICK’S DAY SCAVENGER HUNT
Elkhart County Parks Department
4-7 p.m. at Ox Bow Park, 23033 CR 45
$3 per vehicle entry fee to get into the park.
Call (574) 535-6458 for more informa tion.
MARCH 21 | SHIPSHEWANA SHIP-CHIC SPRING CRAFT, GIFT AND GOODIES SHOW
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Shipshewana Trading Place, Antique and Misc. Building
345 S. Van Buren St. $5 entry fee.
By Christi Lee Ziebarth Guest Writer
A Teacher’s P O V Virtual Learning When the Grass is Always Greener
“What was the gorilla’s favorite color?” a student asked.
In a traditional classroom setting, a student raises their hand. When the weather turns unsafe and online learning is set in place, students respond screen-to-screen by engaging their microphone or typing a comment.
The comment caught my eye. I responded out loud for all to hear, “Yes. The zoo caretaker said there was one color that Ivan showed preference for over and over. Who can tell me what this color is?”
Microphones crackled to life. Students leaned into their cameras while comments scrolled, “Red. Red. Red. Green.”
Green was a guess, but brings this conversation full circle to an adage first documented by a Roman Poet: “The harvest is always richer in an other man’s field.”
Today’s translation reads, “The grass is al ways greener on the other side.” Familiar? Picture livestock craning their necks to reach through a fence into a greener field that actually is not more or less green but just perceived to be.
Ivan the gorilla was a real gorilla who liked to paint. He preferred the color red and chose it over and over. He painted green grass red when given the option, but would paint green grass green only when red was not an option. The kids liked the story.
It is our job as teachers to keep the back-and-forth momentum of learning going. This is the goal of traditional classroom learning and also the goal of snow days via online learning. Too often, snow days turn into something they were never meant to serve; arguments and discussions over which is greener; face-to-face or online learning.
Here in mid-Indiana, icy winters turn to slushy springs that morph into sunny green summers. School in winter comes with occasional snow days. It’s just the way it is. E- or virtual learning stands in for face-to-face education upon necessity as an alternative to no school at all. Meanwhile, from
the barbershop to workday breakrooms to social media, debate ensues about whether this form of snow-day alternative provides equal-value learning. It’s a “the grass is always greener” statement, but backward.
Is it? Maybe it’s not. Maybe it’s just different.
The reach of livestock craning their necks between fences speaks into a belief that something else may be better while what is familiar is of less value. Or, the other way around–what is familiar is best while what is unfamiliar is considered … less green.
E-learning, online learning and virtual learning are often given a bad wrap as being less green by comparison to faceto-face. But, do we have a dilemma to talk about at all? Many places in this world don’t have the freedom of education while we debate which kind is better?
This past January our area held vigil in frigid temperatures while a winter storm swept through. School was called off for plural days. Face-to-face learning was replaced with E-learning which merged into virtual learning. Adjacent school corporations made decisions on what is good, better or best and not all agreed. Agreeing is not a necessity; learning is.
Conversations buzzed over what is greener. Days off were compared with days-on, E-assignments compared with virtual screen time and consolidated schedules measured against traditional duration.
I’m not here to answer the question of better or best, greener or green. I’m just here to think out loud as one with a right to think. I am both a parent with a son in the school system and a teacher who has navigated expectations of snow-day education.
As evidenced by the college frontier where online programs are thriving, the option of learning through online means is here to stay. Eand virtual learning serve their place and earn their space. Learning happens in the classroom. Learning can also happen online. Students show up. Together, we learn.
Sometimes the grass isn’t about being greener; its about the fact that it’s green. Ivan liked the color red. Given the choice, he would paint grass red unless red was not an option. When traditional face-to-face learning is not an option, we do the best we can with what we’ve got.
Instead of viewing online learning as a necessary imposter, or a bite of grass from the other side of the fence — view it as an enabler of our continued freedom of education?
Greener grass, by the way, is a result of chlorophyll. Grass is green due to a pigment found in chloroplasts within plant cells. Chlorophyll absorbs red and blue for photosynthesis while reflecting green light, which is what our eyes perceive. This enables the conversion of sunlight into energy–a fact that remains true whether learned through face-to-face teaching, virtual or —did you learn something new? — reading from an article like this.
Can the grass just be green, please, instead of green-er or less green. Lets be OK to try different kinds of learning out of necessity sometimes. Let’s be thankful for the education we have and that we can learn about gorillas and photosynthesis in a free country with green grass and lots of colors of paint. n
The Home Show Michiana has been helping area homeowners find everything they need to upgrade or remodel their home for over 45 years. This show helps to provide fresh ideas, modern home design, smart home solutions, classic remodeling and outdoor living space inspiration. One-stop shopping is offered at the event with many vendors and professionals for all aspects of a home under one roof.
By Nicholette Carlson HomeLiving Feature Writer
offers one stop shopping for any home remodel or rebuild
When looking to remodel, rebuild or rework a home, Home Show Michiana has many options. There are multiple contractors and kitchen and roofing vendors to compare. Homeowners or prospective buyers can get their shopping done in one place while also saving money with special deals from vendors at the show. Businesses also have register-to-win drawings - one from the Neighborly Group and one offering the chance to win $6,000 in outdoor furniture.
There is a vendor for almost anything that anyone could be looking for. There are vendors for construction, concrete, roofing, painting, home and garden, heating and air, kitchen remodel, windows, landscaping, cabinets, flooring, critter control, insurance, Tupperware and knives and even a chiropractor. The event is sponsored by the Neighborly Group and this is its second year acting as sponsor. The Neighborly Group includes Five Star Painting, Glass Doctor, Mosquito Joe and Mr. Handyman.
Home Show Michiana Vendors & Booth Numbers
“It’s a good mix of new and old companies,” Glen Whitt, Big Time Advertising, emphasized. “There are vendors who come back again year after year and have been with the show for over 40 years and there are new companies that just opened or owners that just took over the franchise.” Vendors are spread throughout both levels of the Century Center with booths set up in the Great Hall, Convention Hall and Discovery Ballroom.
A highlight of the show is its size. The Home Show Michiana is larger than other shows and the biggest show of its kind in the area. It has also been around significantly longer than other shows in the area. The venue has full concessions open to visitors. There is live music each day, with the local band Alligator Blackbird playing at scheduled times each afternoon. Indiana Whiskey will also be there Saturday night. Throughout the three-day show, there are typically over 6,000 people who visit. “Try to see everyone and everything,” Whitt recommended. “There are people on both floors with stairs and elevators available. There is something for everybody in this show. You might have to search for it, but it’s there.”
It is open for three days, so there is a time for everyone to come visit. Hours are 1 to 7 p.m. Friday, March 13; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 14; and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 15. The cost is $10 per adult and children ages 12 and under are free. The show is located at the Century Center, 120 Doctor MLK Jr. Blvd., South Bend. There is also a cost for parking at the Century Center or free parking along nearby city streets. n shutterstock.com
Home Show Michiana Vendors & Booth Numbers
as of time of printing.
in to see all of our vendors.
March 13, 14, 15, 2026
Remodeling / Home Building / and More
Friday 1p - 7p
Saturday 10a - 6p
Sunday 11a - 4p
Elkhart teen excited about 4-H National Conference
By Lauren Zeugner HomeLiving Editor
Like most teens, Janell Villalobos is always on the move, whether it be dance practice, tennis practice, Bible study or participating in Juntos, a 4-H youth development program that provides middle school youth and their families with the knowledge, skills and resources to ensure high school graduation and increase college access. Juntos is Spanish for ‘together’.
Editor’s Note: At press time, HomeLiving learned another Juntos member, Ramon Pardo, will also be going to the Ignite 4-H Conference in Washington D.C. later this month.
The program also does community projects such as creating a community garden at St. Vincent’s de Paul’s Catholic Church in Elkhart. For middle school members she gave a presentation on transitioning to high school while Corey Sharpe and Sthele Greybar, 4-H educators, gave presentations on transitioning from high school to college. “It’s a fun way to meet people,” she said.
Villalobos, a junior at Marian High School in Mishawaka, will be attending the Ignite 4-H National Conference later this month. The conference will be held in Washington D.C. and provides attendees with opportunities to explore traditional and emerging career paths.
Calling her experience in Juntos “eye-opening’ Villalobos said, “Without Juntos I wouldn’t have experienced the things I did.”
“I immediately wanted to do it,” she said about attending the conference, noting it was an opportunity she never had before. “I’m really excited.” Since participating in Juntos, Villalobos has participated in a number of college adventures, where the kids visit Indiana colleges and Universities. Villalobos has visited Vincennes and Purdue and spent a week at camp on Purdue’s campus.
“I got to meet a lot of new people, either my age or through Purdue Extension,” she said.
A big part of Juntos meetings is members voting on where to have a meal together and once a month members make a meal for their parents. Villalobos loves to bake with her specialty being cheesecake. She also
enjoys cake decorating for 4-H. “I like to cake decorate, “ she said. “I get to see my vision on display.”
Beatriz Villalobos, Janell’s mom, is very enthusiastic about the Juntos program, especially the opportunities it’s provided Janell and her brother, Angel, to visit and stay on campus to meet staff and professors. “It’s easier. It’s less scary,” she said. “I can see them being part of that community.”
At the Ignite 4-H conference Villalobos will be participating in the community accelerators track where teens learn to drive change at the local level through social entrepreneurship, service learning and community-based problem solving. She is excited to meet new people while in D.C. At Marian, Villalobos is taking advanced speech and communication. She credits her ability to present well in front of an audience to her Juntos experiences.
Villalobos said she loves being with her community. She is involved in the dance squad for Marian, she’s done every sport in the book, even flag football, with tennis being her favorite. She enjoys tennis as an individual sport and dance as a team event. She is also active in her church, St. Thomas Catholic Church in Elkhart, where she is helping prepare seventh-graders for confirmation. “I want to be able to give back,” she said.
She isn’t sure what she wants to do career wise, but said she wants to do something social, working with people. She’s definitely not interested in being stuck behind a desk. As for college, she wants to go to an in-state school and is considering Purdue or IUSB. n
Photo of Janell Villalobos and her dad Hugo during a visit to Purdue with Juntos.
Janell Villalobos and her friends in Juntos. Ramon Pardo is shown in the front of the group.
Photos provided by Janell Villalobos and Ramon Pardo
By BethAnne Brink-Cox
Catching up with CharitySTowe
In 2022, Charity Stowe caught our attention with an old home she was restoring, and beautifully too. That was no small feat–a three-story house that had been gutted by fire. Where is she four years later? “Through my businesses, Herstoric Development and Construction, I’ve restored multiple homes in downtown South Bend, including two neighboring properties that suffered extensive fires. Our work centers on maintaining the built character of our neighborhoods and avoiding the demolition of historic buildings that have fallen into disrepair or experienced extensive damage.”
What would be the benefit of owning an old home? Charity knows. “Beyond the obvious system updates, one of the lesser-known realities of owning an old home is that you’re stepping into a long lineage of care. These houses were built with craftsmanship and durable materials, and they’re meant to be maintained over generations rather than treated as disposable.”
“Beyond that, there’s room for personal style and thoughtful modern updates. The key is respecting the house’s character rather than erasing it. These buildings were never meant to be static artifacts. They are living structures that
are a great example: repairing damaged areas and refinishing existing wood preserves authenticity, delivers a high- quality finish and often costs less in the long run. Original materials were meant to be renewed, not hidden. Just lean
She continued, “What many buyers don’t initially realize is how much value already exists in features that are often overlooked: original windows, solid wood trim and doors, plaster walls and thoughtful detailing. Owning a historic home also invites a mindset shift. You’re becoming a steward of it, learning how the house works, honoring its original design and making decisions that extend its life rather than shortcut it.”
Stowe continued, “Old houses ask for continued attention, but what they give back is depth, soul and a sense of place that simply can’t be recreated. With care, they don’t just last — they improve over time. When those original components are maintained rather than replaced, they tend to outlast modern substitutes. Preserving original elements like floors, trim, doors and windows goes a long way in maintaining character and those details are irreplaceable.
have always evolved in response to changing needs, technologies and ways of living. Thoughtful updates are part of that continuum. Throughout a historic house, old and new can work together when each is allowed to do what it does best. Salvaged and original elements like wood floors, doors, trim, wavy glass, and masonry provide texture, depth and a sense of continuity.
“The goal isn’t to replicate the past exactly, nor is it to impose a contemporary interior onto an older shell. It’s to create a dialogue between eras: preserving the parts of the house that carry history and craftsmanship, while layering in updates that support how people live today. When done well, the result feels cohesive, durable and authentic, honoring where the house has been while ensuring it continues to function for generations to come.
“Reusing materials and repairing what already exists is more sustainable, often more affordable and deeply aligned with historic preservation. Hardwood floors
into the patina rather than aiming for perfection. That’s part of the beauty and texture these homes offer us.
“Local salvage shops (like South Bend TradeWorks!) are invaluable resources. While salvaged materials aren’t always inexpensive, they often prevent the need for full replacement. Reusing what already exists reduces waste, saves money and leaves historic homes feeling authentic.”
Stowe summed it all up beautifully. “Restoration isn’t just about preservation, it’s about people. Our built environment directly impacts how we feel, how creative we are, and how connected we feel to a place. When we invest in craftsmanship, detail, and thoughtful design, we improve quality of life in ways that aren’t always obvious to us, but are deeply felt. If we strip historic homes of their character in favor of safe, neutral renovations, we’re doing a disservice to the people who live in them and surrounding residents who pass by them. These houses deserve bold
choices, honest materials, and design that honors their past while supporting their future.”
Just look at her work. n
Photos provided by Charity Stowe
Did You Know?
HomeLiving Feature Writer
The Peace Corps was established by President John F. Kennedy in 1961. The Peace Corps sends young, American volunteers to developing countries to help with basic human needs, health care and education.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt took office in 1933 and gave his first inaugural address to the American public to restore hope and confidence during the Great Depression. This address included his famous line, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”
The American playwright Tennessee Williams was born in Columbus, Mississippi in 1911. He is well-known for his works, including “The Glass Menagerie,” “A Streetcar Named Desire” and “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.”
March is Women’s History Month, celebrating women’s contributions to history and society as well as the progress made in women’s rights, International Women’s Day on March 8, Pi Day on March 14 and St. Patrick’s Day on March 17. Some popular foods to celebrate these holidays are pie on Pi Day and corned beef and cabbage on St. Patrick’s Day.
This year, March’s full moon, known as the worm moon, will reach peak illumination on the morning of Tuesday, March 3. It will also coincide with a full lunar eclipse, resulting in a blood moon.
“Beware the Ides of March.” Julius Caesar met his end during a Senate meeting at the hands of as many as 60 conspirators. The phrase “Beware the Ides of March” became famous from William Shakespeare’s play “Julius Caesar.” This year, it also follows Friday the 13th.
March is named after the Roman god of war, Mars. This was because it was the time of year when military campaigns could resume after winter. It was originally the first month of the Roman calendar.
March is one of the best months for basketball. The popular NCAA March Madness tournament begins in March and runs through the first week of April. Many enjoy making brackets to compare with friends or placing bets and watching multiple games.
March kicks off the spring season. The spring equinox occurs in late March, usually around March 20 or 21, marking the time of year when day and night are near ly equal length.
A lesser-known cele bration during March is Respect Your Cat Day on March 28. For all cat owners, this is the day to make sure they get an extra treat or a new toy. n
AI Generated by Google Gemini
AI Generated by Google Gemini
The Book Nook
This month’s BookNook suggestions come from staff and Friends of the Library at the Syracuse Public Library.
THEO OF GOLDEN
by Allen Levi
This is the first book written by the author. It is a story of how one man can change a neighborhood through kindness.
It was a great book for book club discussion. It is a heartwarming story in which a community shows empathy, love, and legacy; a story of giving and receiving love.
ISLE OF EVER
by Jen Calonita
We follow Everly Benedict, a 12-year-old girl who learns she is an heir to a fortune. In order to collect the inheritance, she has to play a game her ancestor left for her to find the missing island. She has two weeks to accomplish this task, or the fortune will be forfeited.
I thoroughly enjoyed this middle-grade story; I felt like I was in “National Treasure.” Each chapter kept you hanging and also had you thinking about the next clue.
INVISIBLE MAN
by Ralph Ellison
This book describes the experiences of a young man in Harlem, New York, after reluctantly leaving a southern small-town all-Black college. The narrator talks about movements that were in effect during the 1950s including Black nationalism, violence plaguing the streets and racism Black people faced over 100 years after the abolition of slavery.
I recommend this book because it is important to read outside of our collective comfort zones, to get to know culture that is foreign to us and because I enjoy reading books about others’ experiences in the world.
Want to suggest a book for Book Nook? Send the title, author, a brief synopsis of the book and why you liked it to lzeugner@the-papers.com.
TUESDAYS WITH MORRIE
by Mitch Albom
The author reunites with his old mentor/professor, Morrie Schwartz, and continues the tradition of meeting every Tuesday, turning into one final “class” on how to live.
I suggest this book because it’s one that truly makes you think about life while also giving a wholesome yet bittersweet look into the author and Morrie’s relationship during Morrie’s last days.
IT IS ALWAYS A CIRCLE
by
Aleah Black
Part poetry, part coffee table art book, this title is a quick, yet hard-hitting read. This book gives voice to the grief and fear many of us are moving through collectively during this moment in history, while also ringing out a song of hope, direction, and community care.
THE CORRESPONDENT
by
Virginia Evans
This book is written as letters from our main character, Sybil Van Antwerp, to the different people in her life. As she is entering her 70s, she is forced to examine some of the more painful aspects of her life. Beautifully written, this novel is equally heartwarming and heartbreaking. n
photos: amazon.com
JAN ROSE - Friends of the Library member and Syracuse-Turkey Creek Township board member
EMILIA LAYNE - children services librarian
AMBER COX - teen services librarian
HANNA KUNKEL - Patron services librarian
JON GASKILL - executive director
MEGAN DAUMEN - assistant director
Ramen Soup
Recipe By Kenny Holmes, CEO/President of freedomsystem.org
This soup recipe is a big hit with Kenny’s kids who refer to it as “Daddy Soup”
INGREDIENTS:
q 6 cups of water
q 3 cups of beef broth
q 2 tablespoons sesame oil
q 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
q 4 tablespoons soy sauce
q 4 tablespoons Grill Your Ass Off Ma Deuce steak seasoning - available at Walmart, Ace Hardware and Amazon
q 1 heaping tablespoon minced garlic
q 1 cup chopped green onions
q 1 chunked red onion
q 1/4 cup cilantro
q 1 cup spinach
q 5 ramen cakes
q 1/4 cup mushrooms
q 1 tablespoon chopped basil leaves
q 2 medium boiled eggs
q 4 eye of round steaks
q 1/2 cup butter
DIRECTIONS:
Bring to a boil water, beef broth, sesame oil, Worcestershire, soy sauce, Ma Deuce steak seasoning and minced garlic. Let broth simmer.
Cook steaks to desired temperature using Ma Duece seasoning to taste. Once steaks are cooked to desired temperature, cut steaks into thin strips.
In melted butter, sauté red onions.
Add sautéed red onions, green onions, cilantro, mushrooms and basil to broth. Let simmer for five minutes.
In individual bowls, place the ramen cake, add a handful of spinach. Pour soup over spinach and steak. Garnish with egg, sesame seeds and salt and pepper to taste. Optional: add Siracha sauce to taste for a spicy kick. n
Seventh annual Garden Expo set for March 7
The seventh annual Michiana Master Gardeners Association’s Garden Expo will occur from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 7, at the Faith United Church located at 22045 CR 18, at the corner of CR 17, in Elkhart. The theme is “Think Spring” and the event is open to the community featuring popular keynote speaker Kevin Wiener.
Multiple speakers and educational workshops will accompany the vendor area, door prizes, a silent auction and, of course, food will be available. Some vendors will be cash-only, so plan ahead. Advance-sale tickets are $10 per person and may also be obtained at the door day of event. Online tickets may be purchased in advance on the MMGA website for $10 at www.michianamastergardeners.com.
Kevin Wiener is a nationally known social media personality, speaker, writer, insect guru and web host at AllBugsGoToKevin.com, while his Facebook group has more than 372,000 members.
The MMGA hopes to see you at the upcoming Garden Expo!
This event is affiliated with the Purdue Extension Master Gardener Program. If you are in need of accommodations to attend this program, contact Brandy Cavanagh prior to the event at (574) 533-0554 or bcavanagh@purdue.edu. n
