The Lakes East July 2025

john@townepost.com mandi@townepost.com (574) 249-9217

PHYLLIS

(317) 496-3599

jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011

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FINANCIAL CLARITY

Gary and Sandra Miller have decades of experience balancing books, reconciling accounts and ensuring the financial health of a variety of businesses.

Over the years, they’ve seen what worked and what didn’t, and in 2023, chose to launch their own accounting business, Premier Bookkeeping, in Shipshewana.

“Bookkeeping was more than just numbers on a page. It was the pulse of every organization we supported. We learned how businesses thrived, how they stumbled and how each decision shaped their futures,”

Sandra Miller said. “We knew we had something valuable to offer.”

It’s important to have a trusted company in your corner to help ensure success.

When the Millers opened Premier Bookkeeping, they wanted to do just that. However, they offered so much more.

They are certified in QuickBooks and serve small and medium-sized businesses across the country with the latest cloud technology.

They handle bank and credit card reconciliation, accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll processing, inventory tracking and 1099 filings, and have gone above and beyond the typical bookkeeping services.

If you’ve ever been or known a business owner, it’s not uncommon to hear them talk about starting the business for one reason and spending all their time on the different aspects of the business instead.

“Premier Bookkeeping offers customer service for your business. We handle

incoming calls and respond to emails for fast and professional service. We do scheduling and troubleshooting,” Miller said. “This gives the business owner his time back. It lifts the weight off of his shoulders and suddenly he has more time to do what he’s great at — building his business.”

Of course, not all businesses succeed, but having experts partnering with some of the complicated ins and outs is helpful.

The Millers have seen the common mistakes made by new business owners and help keep the pitfalls of financial errors at bay.

When starting a new business, many entrepreneurs are unaware of just how many hours are spent sitting behind a desk, balancing checkbooks and ordering inventory.

If a business owner consistently loses receipts, forgets transactions and rushes through the process, it can wreak havoc

on the overall health and success of the

Miller said many don’t realize how much time it takes when you’re buried in receipts, invoices and spreadsheets.

“For example, using the same bank account or credit card for both personal and business expenses creates a major accounting headache and can cause issues at tax time,” Miller said. “If you’re not doing monthly reconciliations, errors and missing transactions go unnoticed, which leads to inaccurate financial reports. Misclassifying expenses can lead to overstated or understated profits, which also affects taxes and important business decisions.”

With Premier Bookkeeping, various apps can be integrated into their online system, including time tracking, expense reporting and online bill pay, keeping everything needed in one spot, monitored by the bookkeeping experts.

COUNTRY

Over the past few years, the Millers have enjoyed building the relationships that lead to their clients’ success. They want business owners to feel confident and in control and, perhaps, lift some weight off their shoulders too.

“I think what sets us apart is being more than just a service provider. We’re a trusted partner. We will listen to your story. We want to know how the business started, where it’s struggling and we want to take the time to understand your goals, challenges and vision for the future,” Miller

said. “That connection means everything to us.”

Premier Bookkeeping offers free consultations. Call 260-350-9881 or visit premiergsbookkeeping.com for more information.

HOLISTIC HEALTHCARE

some that might come as a

“Our medical foot care is something some might not know we offer. You think pedicure, but this is more about getting the nails cut properly, working with ingrown nails, fungal issues and more,” Schenkel said. “We also do restorative medicine with infertility. We try to heal the body first and the pregnancy will follow.”

In addition, Caring Hands Clinic offers DOT physicals, youth athlete physicals, mental health services and obstetrics through Schenkel’s Happy Stork midwifery business.

It’s something more people are seeking: instead of treating one symptom, they want providers to look at the whole body and aim for long-term healing.

As a clinic not dictated by insurance companies, Schenkel said, the options are endless.

Too often, she added, people avoid the doctor for fear of being admonished for declining a specific vaccine or medication.

Perhaps the individual’s belief system supports alternative healthcare, or they’re simply uncomfortable with certain practices.

That doesn’t mean the clinic staff are opposed to conventional medicine — just that they don’t require everyone to follow the same regiment.

“Patients want to be responsible for their own autonomy. I think it’s a form of medical harassment to say if you don’t do A, B and C, we won’t take care of you. You have the right to make the choice,” Schenkel said. “My job is to provide the opportunities, and it’s your right to say what you want and don’t want without feeling like you’re getting in trouble. Some people are so used to it, they don’t want to go to the doctor anymore.”

Even more unique — the staff at Caring Hands Clinic will come to you.

“If someone doesn’t want to come to the office, or if you have six children and two are sick, we’ll come to your house. I think it brings things back to the way family medicine was done a long time ago,” Schenkel said. “For us, it’s a natural extension of what we do, but it surprises people that we’ll come to you for all of our services.”

The clinic continues to grow.

This summer, they’ll begin offering CT scans and MRIs in the office — at significantly lower costs than what’s typical with insurance.

“A lot of times, when a provider recommends an MRI, insurance requires you to first do an X-ray, then a CAT scan and then, maybe, we’ll do the MRI. There’s no reason to go through so many other

services to get to the end result,” Schenkel said. “You might think an MRI costs several thousand dollars, but without insurance, we can offer it for a few hundred dollars. We don’t have the overhead, and it’s just the pure cost of the MRI itself. It provides faster and more efficient results.”

The clinic’s team of professionals, all with like-minded healthcare goals, bring their own specialties. One might concentrate on men’s health and emergency medicine, another on pediatrics and family practice, and yet another on elderly care or hard-to-

find specialties.

It’s a dream come true for Schenkel.

“God truly put me in the position of doing this. It was not done out of my own ability. I don’t know how everything keeps coming together, but I know it is by God’s own will and grace, and it was through Him this has become a reality,” Schenkel said.

For more information, visit caringhandsclinicin.com.

Writer / Terry Mullins

the core mission. Northpoint Wholesale continually seeks out popular, practical products that stores can confidently move into the hands of their shoppers. As the business grew, so did the demands of managing it. Ultimately, the founder sought a transition to focus on his young family and other professional opportunities. Fortunately, the perfect successor was already nearby. Lyle Hostetler, with his entrepreneurial spirit and strong business acumen, stepped up to write Northpoint Wholesale’s next chapter.

Today, under Hostetler’s capable leadership, Northpoint Wholesale LLC is flourishing. The company continues to deliver affordable, popular items to retail partners such as Eash Sales, L&R Footwear, Herbs Plus, Pine Ridge Variety, JC Herbs and Schwartz Family Herbal.

Hostetler’s renewed focus on maintaining a robust inventory and keeping customer needs at the forefront ensures that every product Northpoint offers flows quickly through stores and into the hands of satisfied end users.

Beyond providing in-demand products, Northpoint Wholesale is committed to personal service and long-term relationships. Hostetler’s emphasis on integrity, efficiency and responsiveness has further solidified Northpoint’s reputation as a trusted supplier for stores looking to stock high-value, fast-moving items.

“Popular products like the BLENDi Portable Blenders remain bestsellers,”

INNOVATIVE POWER LLC IS GIVING NEW LIFE TO BATTERIES

Writer / Bailey Goldstein

Leland Miller is the force behind Innovative Power LLC, a business that restores Indiana’s dead batteries to working order.

“Our primary rebuilds are tool battery lines — mainly DeWalt, Milwaukee and Craftsman,” Miller said. “Pretty much any lithium battery packs for tools or your nickel-cadmium batteries that no longer work. We’ll go in there, put all new cells

in and then have a completely new battery again.”

Miller purchased Innovative Power LLC in 2024 from Nathan Slabaugh, who founded the business with a focus on rebuilding nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride and some lithium batteries. Slabaugh was looking to step away and offered the operation to Miller.

“He didn’t have time to do this anymore,” Miller said. “He was looking for somebody. He asked me if I would be interested. Right away I wasn’t. But now I’m thankful for the opportunity he gave me.”

After taking ownership, Miller expanded the company’s services to include battery rebuilds for e-bikes, e-scooters, hoverboards and electric three-wheelers.

He also added the DeWalt FlexVolt battery to the list.

He has grown the company’s inventory with special-order custom nickel plating.

“Your DeWalt FlexVolt, for example, is a very complicated battery to rebuild,” he said. “It’s time-consuming, and it takes special plating you can’t just get anywhere. That was one of my first projects. I wanted to rebuild one, and I have accomplished that.”

The DeWalt FlexVolt line automatically switches between 20 and 60 volts depending on the tool. It’s the most frequently submitted battery for rebuilds.

Miller said the company maintains an extensive inventory. “We keep several thousand cells in all shapes and sizes of nickel plating in stock,” he said. “We never know what gets shipped in or dropped off each day, and we want to have the batteries done in less than a week.”

He credits the quality of the rebuilds to the brand of cells used.

“These are top of the line,” Miller said. “They exceed the performance of the cells used in new batteries. By doing a rebuild, these batteries are 100% better than the new ones.”

Miller began his electrical career six years ago in the RV industry, where he developed the skills needed for battery repair.

The rebuilding process requires precision.

First, Miller removes the screws holding the battery casing. After testing the Battery Management System to ensure it can be rehabilitated, he proceeds. The BMS board controls charge rate and output and monitors cell conditions.

“Occasionally, a battery comes in with a bad BMS,” he said. “In that case, we won’t rebuild it. Aftermarket BMS boards are

available but are questionable. In those cases, we opt not to return an unsafe battery.”

Once the BMS board is removed, he strips the plating and removes the old cells. New cells are inserted, welded with custom nickel plating, and reassembled. A final test ensures the battery charges before the casing is sealed.

Each rebuild includes a two-year warranty from the repair date.

“When I started advertising, it pretty much exploded. I’ve been busy ever since,” Miller said. “I’ve had multiple customers send me a few batteries just to try it out. Then a few months later, here comes another box full.”

He said rebuilt batteries often outperform new ones. “They are extremely good batteries,” Miller said. “Better performance than the new ones in runtime, lifespan,

power — everything.”

Battery rebuilds also contribute to sustainability by reducing waste. Lithium batteries require specific disposal and are illegal to place in standard trash. “It’s a big hassle to get your lithium batteries recycled properly, and it costs money,” Miller said. “We’ll take care of that problem, and you end up with a better battery that you don’t have to fix for a long time.”

He hopes the business will continue to grow through word-of-mouth.

“Customers say they notice the continuous long runtime between charge cycles even after hundreds of uses,” Miller said. “Whereas new batteries will lose runtime. One customer told me his e-bike jumps without power with just a small touch on the throttle.”

“Everybody’s going electric, so there’s

more demand for an outlet to fix them,” he said. “It’s a safe, efficient fix. Better than new.”

Innovative Power LLC is at 12271 N. State Route 19 in Nappanee. Call 574-221-1671 or visit innovativepowerin.com for more information.

A RIDE FOR EVERYONE

THE STORY OF TRAILHOUSE VILLAGE BICYCLES

In the heart of Winona Lake, a town known for its lakeside beauty and cultural charm, there’s a bicycle shop where people don’t just ride — they connect. Just beyond the brick-paved paths of the Village at Winona, a destination listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Trailhouse Village Bicycles invites cyclists of all ages to gather, explore and grow. Among historic storefronts and green spaces, it stands as more than a business — it’s a hub of community, encouragement and a shared passion for the ride.

Owned by Barry and Courtney McManus, Trailhouse Village Bicycles blends deep cycling expertise with warm, small-town hospitality. Barry, a six-time national BMX champion and top eight international competitor, has spent most of his life around bikes, whether racing, fixing or fitting others for their perfect ride. “Cycling shaped my entire life,” Barry says. “Now, I get to use that passion to help others discover the joy of riding.”

He didn’t plan to become a bike shop owner back when he started racing at age 13. What began as a fun way to keep up with neighborhood friends soon turned into a serious career. By 16, Barry was flying solo to California to compete. From 1984 to 2005, BMX filled his calendar and helped develop the discipline and drive that now steer his business.

His early work in a Fort Wayne bike shop gave him a foundation that grew over the years. After two long stints there — one

lasting 11 years — Barry remained deeply connected to the cycling world. He also stayed close with a fellow bike-loving family in Winona Lake. When their son, Barry’s longtime friend, passed away, conversations naturally began about the future of their shop. That connection, built over years of shared experience, led Barry and Courtney to purchase the business in 2014. They renamed it Trailhouse Village Bicycles and

began shaping it into the welcoming place it is today.

Courtney, a registered nurse, supports the business behind the scenes while the couple raises their three children. Their son Barrette, now 14, works part time at the shop and races competitively, chasing a college scholarship for road cycling. “He’s already eclipsed me,” Barry says with pride.

“Last summer, I realized my torch was passing.” Their daughters, Erin, a talented high school basketball player, and Faith, age 8, enjoy family rides along the lake and village paths. “It’s fun for them, even if it’s not their main thing,” Barry says.

That spirit of fun is central to the Trailhouse experience. “Customer service isn’t a department — it’s how we operate,” Barry says. For the past three years, the shop has been voted the best bicycle shop in northern Indiana by readers of the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette. That recognition reflects their welcoming approach to every customer, whether they’re shopping for a high-performance road bike or picking out a basket for a cruiser.

Trailhouse carries Trek, Specialized, Electra, Giant, Surly, Salsa, plus Bontrager and Specialized accessories. It’s also one of the region’s top destinations for e-bikes, particularly the Aventon brand. “E-bikes are bringing in people who otherwise wouldn’t ride,” Barry explains. “They allow you to go

farther and ride more often, and you can adjust the assistance level to get the kind of ride you want.”

A standout feature is the shop’s professional bike fitting studio, led by Barry himself. As a certified master bike fitter with more than 120 hours of advanced training, he guides customers through a process that includes personal interviews, range of motion analysis and precision adjustments. “We match people with what fits their life,” Barry says. “Some folks ride five times a week, some are recovering from knee surgery. We want them all to feel confident and comfortable.”

Barry’s no-pressure approach to sales is a key part of Trailhouse’s reputation. “We never upsell,” he says. “If someone’s riding with their kids a few times a month, we’ll help them find a solid, practical bike that meets their needs, not just something that looks impressive on the showroom floor. The right bike is the one that fits their life.”

The full-service repair shop handles everything from simple tune-ups to full overhauls. Seasonal gear — gloves, shoe inserts, UV clothing and more — helps riders stay comfortable and ready for whatever the weather brings. “We see regulars like clockwork,” Barry says. “People trust us to keep their bikes in shape. It’s part of their routine.”

Trailhouse has become a beloved hub in the Village at Winona. Each Wednesday, cyclists of all levels gather for a group ride. “We get 35 to 60 people every week,” Barry says. “It’s not a race — it’s about the experience. We ride as a group and make sure no one gets left behind.” The shop also spearheads the town’s annual Critical Mass Ride each May, which begins right outside Trailhouse and brings hundreds

of cyclists together to travel from Winona Lake to Warsaw with a police escort as part of the Fat & Skinny Tire Fest — a vibrant celebration of National Bicycle Month. Now in its 20th year, the event unites riders of all skill levels and tire sizes — from racers to casual cruisers — to enjoy the cyclingfriendly communities of Warsaw and Winona Lake.

During the pandemic, when inventory was low and supply chains were tight, Trailhouse stayed open and focused on helping people ride with what they already had. “We kept fixing bikes and stayed available. People remembered that,” Barry says. That commitment, through challenges and change, helped deepen customer loyalty.

The Trailhouse team includes service manager Cory Hickson, known for his mechanical knowledge and calm presence, and Barry’s father-in-law, Gary Alberson, who brings logistical support and financial guidance. Seasonal college students and

longtime part-timers round out the friendly, capable crew. “It’s the people who create the atmosphere,” Barry says. “We’re good at reading the room and making sure people feel at home.”

Looking ahead, Barry hopes to grow Trailhouse organically, committed to thoughtful development rather than rapid expansion. He wants to keep doing what they do — just a little better each day. “We may not be the largest shop, but we’re consistent. We show up, we listen and we help people find what fits. That’s what keeps them coming back.”

Whether you’re a lifelong cyclist, a dedicated competitor, someone curious about hopping on a bike for the first time in years, or an adventurer interested in trying out an e-bike, Trailhouse is a place where you’ll be welcomed, listened to and guided toward what fits you best. You might simply be hoping to relive the joy of feeling the wind in your face as you breeze down a path. Whatever brings you in, a rewarding ride is waiting just around the bend.

Trailhouse Village Bicycles is at 1001 E. Canal St. in Winona Lake. Call 574-267-2223 or email trailhousebarry@gmail.com. Visit their website at trailhousevillage-bicycles.com.

TRAVEL THAT CONNECTS

DASH GETAWAYS CRAFTS EXPERIENCES BEYOND THE DESTINATION

Writer / Darcie Dodds Schott

When you think of packing your bags and heading out of town, where does your imagination take you? Magnificent Mount Rushmore? Historic Civil War reenactments? Ancient pyramids of Egypt? Every one of these destinations is on the upcoming adventure schedule for Dash Getaways Travel in Plymouth.

Owned and run by longtime businesswoman Lana Ball, the concept behind her business is to offer experiences that transport travelers while also bringing them together through travel to meet and connect with other people.

Ball’s drive for entrepreneurship and running her own business is born out of more than 20 years of working for her own family’s business, Ball Auction & Realty, based in Bourbon and serving communities since 1969. Among other recognitions, patriarch of the family business Daryl Ball received the Half Century Award in 2021, presented by Gov. Eric Holcomb and State Rep. Jack Jordan to honor Ball Auction & Realty for more than 50 years of longevity and contributions to the community.

This impressive work ethic became the foundation of Dash Getaways Travel. Ball had always dreamed of running her own business like her father, so after earning a degree from Purdue University in retail management, she drew on her formal education and years of personal travel experience to launch Dash Getaways Travel Tours & Gift Shoppe.

In her new venture, Ball cultivated her creative side into the Gift Shoppe products such as custom florals and home accents carried on her website, and she combined her deep commitment to being a customerservice-driven business that she learned from her father with her love of exploration and introducing others to new locations and experiences.

Ball believes strongly in the personal growth that travel can develop, and she set out to procure travel packages that go beyond the expected to the truly memorable. Much of her travel tours involve journeying on

motorcoach buses to locations throughout the U.S., which serves as a way for people to connect with others. “Whether folks are traveling together or on their own, there is a tendency to form a bond with others. As humans, we are designed to be together.” Taking the adventure beyond mere mileage to a memory-filled destination is what drives Ball’s inventive approach to her travel packages. In early 2026, Dash Getaways will lead a journey to overnight stays in both Louisville, Kentucky, and the historic Civil War town of Bardstown, Kentucky, with ghost walks in places that have been ranked in the United States and the world as the most haunted.

In Louisville, the stops will include a notorious sanitorium that took in tuberculosis patients. Timing of the tour? Midnight to 6 a.m., of course, when all things haunted seem to come alive. In Bardstown, travelers will visit the fourth-largest Civil War museum and lodge at the historic Talbott Inn, adding their names to the guest

July 11–13, 2025 - Spirits of Kentucky: A Haunted Weekend Adventure Travel via comfortable passenger van. 3 Meals. 3 Days/2 Nights - $765* pp/Double Occupancy

book alongside notable figures such as Abraham Lincoln and Jesse James. A Civil War re-enactment tops off this memorable journey back in time.

Some of Dash Getaways’ travel groups are smaller in number, such as the ghost walk trip to Kentucky and Michigan wine tours of Tabor Hill and Round Barn—to sample wines that have been served at the

Aug 1, 2025 - American Girl Store & Luncheon and Zoo Day Out - Perfect for any girl or boy who loves dolls and animals! We’ll kick off the day with a reserved lunch at the American Girl Store Café. We will have time to shop the store’s newest outfits, accessories and interactive play spaces. Next, we’ll head to the beautiful Lincoln Park Zoo, where you’ll discover exotic animals from around the world. $145.00* per person. Includes roundtrip transportation, snacks & water to and from, lunch, zoo admission, and a full day of fun! Seats are limited. Book early to make the day extra special!

August 2, 2025 - Get ready to thrift in style! Join us for a one-day treasure hunt through Chicago’s best vintage and resale shops—with a foodieapproved lunch stop along the way. Just $99* per person (meal not included). Sep. 7–13, 2025 - Cape Cod & Martha’s Vineyard Travel Via Motorcoach. 10 meals included. $1067* 7 Days/6Nights pp/Double Occupancy. #

Sept 21–27, 2025 - Beautiful Vermont Travel Via Motorcoach. 10 meals included. $1398* 7 Days/6Nights pp/Double Occupancy. #

Oct 13–17, 2025 - Pigeon Forge and Smoky Mountains Show Trip Travel Via Motorcoach. 8 meals included. $899* 5 Days/4Nights pp/Double Occupancy. # Nov 2–8, 2025 - Savannah, Jekyll Island & Beaufort, SC Travel Via Motorcoach. 10 meals included. $1050* 7 Days/6Nights pp/Double Occupancy. #

Dec 8–13, 2025 - Branson Show Extravaganza (Christmas Shows) Travel Via Motorcoach. 8 meals included. $978* 6 Days/5Nights pp/Double Occupancy. # 2026

Jan 1-10, 2026 - Legends of the Pharaohs: An Immersive Egyptian Odyssey 10 Days 9 Nights (Including a 5 Day 4 Night Nile Cruise) Exploring Ancient Egypt from Cairo down to Abu Simbel. Special Access to Sites Not Open to the Public. 22 Meals and all Gratuities Included. - Internal Airfare included. International Airfare not included. $4200* pp-Double Occupancy

January 24, 2026 - Phantom of the Opera – Chicago Getaway - Join us for a spectacular afternoon in Chicago with pre-purchased premium matinee seats to Phantom of the Opera at the stunning Cadillac Palace Theatre! A delicious lunch is included before the show, making this the perfect winter escape. Seats are very limited—book today to lock in the best ones! Any additional tickets may not be in our reserved section. This also makes a thoughtful Christmas 2025 gift for friends, family, or that special someone and a delicious charcuterie snack box to enjoy on the way home! $299 pp*

March 26-April 1, 2026 - Washington DC During Cherry Blossom Time (we will be securing a tour either through the White House or Capital Building) Travel via Motorcoach - 10 Meals included. $1097* pp 7 Days/6 Nights/Double Occupancy#

April 6-10 2026 - The Ark Encounter & Creation Museum - Travel via Motorcoach - 8 Meals included. $830* pp 5 Days/4 Nights/Double Occupancy#

June 8-12 2026 | Mackinac Island (During the famous Lilac Festival) Travel via Motorcoach - 8 Meals included. $875* pp 5 Days/4 Nights/Double Occupancy#

July 10-22 2026 | Nova Scotia, Acadia National Park & Prince Edward Island Travel via Motorcoach - 23 Meals included. $2499* pp 13 Days/12 Nights/Double Occupancy#

December 6–11, 2026 | Biltmore Estate & North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains - Step into a holiday wonderland as you explore the magnificent Biltmore Estate, beautifully adorned for the Christmas season. This unforgettable getaway includes festive sights, charming stops (Great getaway for unique Christmas Shopping), and warm Southern hospitality. Travel via Motorcoach - 8 Meals included. $998* pp 6 Days/5 Nights/Double Occupancy#

All tours will be hosted by Lana Ball, Founder of Dash Getaways. For Full Itineraries or more information please visit our website www.dashgetawaystravel.com or call or visit us at Dash Getaways Travel

849 Lincolnway E. Plymouth, IN 46563

*All Gratuities Included in Price. Motorcoach Leaves from Dash Getaways Travel.

# - $75.00 Due Upon Signing with Final Payment Due approx. 2 months before trip. For single occupancy rates please visit our website or give us a call.

White House. Longer trips to Martha’s Vineyard, Cape Cod, Vermont, Savannah, Pigeon Forge and Mount Rushmore in South Dakota accommodate travelers on comfortable motorcoaches carrying groups of up to 52 people.

Ball acknowledges that not everyone enjoys air travel, so traveling on a motorcoach is an inviting alternative. “We embrace the group of travelers who enjoy this type of trip, with a preplanned itinerary. Many of these travelers don’t use a computer, so this personal approach is key to our success.”

For travel enthusiasts seeking more adventure, Dash Getaways offers a highintensity trip to the pyramids of Egypt. Having traveled to this part of the world numerous times herself, Ball has developed local connections and been granted special permission for travelers. Discussions will cover topics such as the Valley of the Kings and a second pyramid, Khafre, that has been in the news lately. Ball’s knowledge of the

pyramids is impressive, introducing travelers to the fact that the Sphinx was originally only a head, before extraction, and the overall concept of the “grandfather, father and son” being the three major pyramids.

To accentuate the literal depth of the Egypt encounter, consider the following invitation Ball has posted on the Dash Getaways Facebook page:

“Would you crawl nearly 100 feet underground into the heart of the Great Pyramid? If the answer is yes, step one is to descend through a 344-foot tunnel as narrow as a small elevator at a steep angle. Step two involves crawling through a passageway on hands and knees, arriving at a rough, silent chamber carved directly into the bedrock nearly 100 feet below ground. It’s raw, unlit, completely surreal and not part of the standard tourist route. But here’s the best part—you can do it too.”

Exclusive access to this one-of-a-kind journey is part of the “Legends of the Pharaohs: An Immersive Egyptian Odyssey” trip happening January 2026 with Dash Getaways Travel.

Ball does the company’s marketing herself, including videos, and strives to create travel packages that address the interests of travelers. Dash Getaways advertises using Facebook ads, local events such as the Plymouth Blueberry Festival, as well as on restaurant menus, attracting travelers from

WE ARE CURRENTLY BUYING / SELLING THE FOLLOWING ITEMS:

• Gold Jewelry

• Sterling Silver Jewelry

• Platinum Jewelry

• Turquoise Jewelry

• Dental Gold

• Service Pins

• Pocket Watches

• Sterling Silver Flatware

• Dimes - 1964 & Before

• Quarters - 1964 & Before

• Halves - 1970 & Before

• Dollars - 1935 & Before

• Proof & Mint Sets

• Old Paper Money

• Old U.S. Coins

• Foreign Coins

• Gold & Silver Coins

• Gold & Silver Bullion

• Pennies - 1958 & Before

• Nickels - 1938 & Before

• Nickels - 1942-1945

Shipshewana, Logansport and surrounding communities.

Ball welcomes many diverse client groups, including businesses, churches, schools and international travelers to explore the variety of travel experiences, including single-day to multi-day trips for both public and private, domestic and international groups.

“Working with Amish families has been one of the most rewarding and enriching aspects of my journey. Building lasting relationships within the Amish through travel planning and real estate has afforded me an understanding of their values, preferences and lifestyle, which has allowed me to thoughtfully craft itineraries that align with their unique needs,” confirms Ball.

Ball’s commitment to giving back to her community is a core driving force behind her business practices. She has been appointed by the mayor of Plymouth to serve on the Redevelopment Commission. She also sits

ALFALFA PELLETS

on the boards of Habitat for Humanity and the Purdue Club of Marshall County. With a ribbon-cutting ceremony in early 2025 to celebrate the opening of Dash Getaways, bookings are filling up fast. In fact, the first trip to Mount Rushmore in South Dakota is nearly sold out. Ball conceptualizes about half of the travel itineraries herself and then completes the schedule with opportunities from successful travel package purveyor Diamond Tours in Florida. Future Dash Getaways tours include Kentucky’s Red River Gorge for cave kayaking and hiking, “Phantom of the Opera” in Chicago, foodie tours, girls getaways and, Ball hopes, dog sledding.

Other plans include exploring collaborations with colleges to offer student internships in research for historic adventures. Ball is eager to attract younger travelers who will embrace travel to build community through adventure.

Ball encourages people of all ages to consider

one of the opportunities at Dash Getaways Travel. “Life is a continuous journey of growth, and travel is one of its greatest teachers. The more you explore, the more you learn—not just about the world, but about yourself.”

Dash Getaways Travel is located at 849 Lincolnway E, Plymouth, IN 46563. For information and details about Dash Getaway packages, visit dashgetawaystravel. com, email Lana Ball at contact@dashgetawaystravel.com or call (574) 800-9202.

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BEHIND THE SHELVES

HOW NEW KITCHEN STORE CURATES THE BEST OF THE BEST

Writer / Phyllis Wille

Have you ever wondered how we pick new products for the store? It’s quite a job to keep up with the market and find what our customers want. We start by keeping a running list of what people ask us to carry. We look at infomercials and other advertising to find products we may not know about. Then we go to shows, talk to our sales reps and call companies directly to explore our options.

When we bring in a product, it goes through a testing process to ensure it performs as intended. If it passes, we place it on the shelf. If it doesn’t, we inform the company that we’re not interested.

For every 10 products we test, at least one goes back. We won’t compromise our standards to sell items that don’t hold up. We offer a satisfaction guarantee, and it makes sense to only sell items that meet that high standard. With some products like pans and silicones, we also research materials to ensure we choose the best in class. That narrows down the selection and makes the process easier. We like dealing with companies that share our values. Sometimes decisions come down to environmental impact, recyclability and core company values. As consumers become more educated, we’re seeing more of these values reflected in purchase decisions.

We enjoy supporting small, local products when we can find them — such as honey, Whetstone Woodenware, maple syrup, locally made aprons and many more. We feature a few of our new items each month on our product tree at the front of the store. This month’s items include a new Black Rifle Coffee flavor, a beef tallow spray, a flex fishing knife, several loose teas and a bread sling, just to name a few.

Some of these are here because customers asked, “Have you ever tried this?” We listened — and they’ve become very popular.

The food department is harder to navigate when choosing and grading products. We can review ingredient lists, but they don’t always tell us where fruits and vegetables were grown — and that affects both taste and nutrition. We aim to carry many gluten-free options and some that use heritage grains like Kamut. We also seek products with as few ingredients as possible — but taste still matters! At our sales meetings, we sample products to see how they perform alongside others. This month, we tried bison jerky. Pumpkin seeds were another surprise — not something I expected to like, but they really impressed me.

What’s your favorite food or kitchen item? We’d love to hear from you. This is what makes our store a community, not just a place to shop. Your feedback helps shape what we bring in and how we present and sample it. In fact, that feedback led to our farmers market,

When Quality Counts the Most

held every Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. in the store parking lot, where neighbors can visit with neighbors.

We also sample coffee and tea in-store so you can try before you buy. On Saturdays, we usually offer even more samples. We try to demonstrate new products and recipes using old favorites and new finds.

One recent addition is our small shopping carts, which make it easier to navigate the store. Other services include home shipping, gift wrap, assistance with gift selection, bridal and gift registries, layaway and more.

We hope this gives you a better idea of what to expect from our customer service — which always tops our list. We especially enjoy hearing your food stories. Stop in today for a small-town feel in a large kitchen store.

Visit the New Kitchen Store at 1100 Roosevelt Road in Walkerton or visit the website at newkitchenstore.com.

Benefits of Concrete Borders

• Our borders are extruded with a steel cable reinforcement as “one solid” continuous piece of concrete

• Gives your landscape beds an attractive and durable edge

• Provides an effective root barrier that prevents grass from growing into your beds

• The height of concrete borders helps to keep mulch/stone in your beds and out of your lawn

Concrete Borders make the perfect compliment to any landscape design that adds value to your home by providing a beautiful and durable landscape edge. These continuous borders are extruded on site to create a custom-made look as they follow the curves and contours of any architectural or landscape design (without splices, breaks and individual pieces). Concrete Borders are more durable than any other edging material and are very easy to maintain. We offer multiple profiles to choose from as well as dozens of patterns, stamps, and colors to compliment any architectural scheme.

Residential and Commercial Landscape Borders

Our “on-site” extrusion process allows for gentle flowing curves, straight lines and radiuses as tight as 36” around your landscape beds and gardens.

LANDSCAPING LEGACY

HOW CONCRETE BORDERS HAS SHAPED MICHIANA LANDSCAPES

Writer / Amy Beaucham Photographer / Jessica Whitehead

When Loren Stutzman moved from Florida to Indiana in the early 1990s, he noticed something missing from the landscape. In Florida, he’d grown accustomed to seeing seamless concrete edging around landscape beds, walkways and trees. In the Midwest, that type of edging hadn’t yet caught on. It wasn’t absent altogether, but it certainly wasn’t common.

In 1995, he decided to change that, and Concrete Borders was born. What began as a small operation has steadily grown into a leading provider of custom-designed, continuous concrete edging for homeowners throughout northern Indiana. Over the past

30 years, the company has earned a trusted name across the Michiana region.

“At first, people didn’t understand the concept of continuous edging,” Loren recalled during a recent interview. “Some had seen the old, segmented kind that sold in individual pieces, but they didn’t realize how much smoother and more durable a single, seamless piece could be.”

In the early days, Loren worked exclusively with plain concrete. As demand and styles evolved, he introduced color, followed by texture, stamping and decorative patterning. Every border now includes embedded steel

cable reinforcement, ensuring added strength and long-term durability.

What truly sets Concrete Borders apart is the hands-on process behind every job. Each project is installed on-site using a specialized machine that extrudes a dry, moldable concrete mix — “kind of like a Play-Doh machine,” as he put it. Once the border is extruded, it is hand-troweled and, if desired, stamped with a decorative design, then sealed at the end of the project.

To help clients choose the right look, Stutzman brings along a rolling showroom of nearly 40 sample pieces showcasing different

Concrete Borders has grown into a true multigenerational business. Loren’s sons, Justin and Nathan, now manage projects and lead crews with confidence.

“They started young,” Loren recalled. “Back then, they’d ride along in the summer and just fill buckets of sand. Now they’re running jobs from start to finish.”

Loren’s wife, Joann, is an essential part of the team, overseeing office operations. Over the years, all their children have contributed to Concrete Borders’ success.

Evan, their oldest son, spent several years working for the company before launching his own business, Stutzman Landscaping. Ryan, the youngest, also worked alongside the team for a time before pursuing his passion for mechanics and service — though he still helps with company vehicle maintenance. Kaitlin, their oldest child and

only daughter, was especially active in the early years, assisting with setup for home shows and other promotional events.

The company’s busiest season runs from late March through Thanksgiving, with a peak in late spring.

“That’s when most people start thinking about landscaping projects,” Loren explained. “Sometimes a bush or shrub has overgrown its space, or its landscape bed lines aren’t easy to mow. We help make those areas both functional and beautiful.”

The borders installed by Loren and his team serve more than a decorative purpose. They’re mower-friendly, help keep bed material in place, stop grass from growing into beds and are built to withstand Indiana’s extreme freeze-thaw cycles. Steel cable reinforcement in every installation helps prevent shifting or cracking.

Loren recommends resealing borders every

three years to keep colors vibrant. Some of his earliest projects — completed more than two decades ago — are still going strong.

That long-term durability makes it possible to revisit and expand earlier work. If a homeowner wants to match a previous border, Stutzman can make it happen.

“We keep records of all the colors and patterns,” he said. “If we need to replace a section or expand on a previous job, we can blend the new work to match seamlessly.”

In response to customer needs, the company has expanded its services slightly. While continuous borders remain their focus, the team often installs mulch or decorative stone in surrounding beds and can relocate sprinkler heads or bury downspouts.

“Water drainage is a big concern to most homeowners,” Loren said. “We try to make sure water runoff moves away from the house, which helps protect both the

Tri-State S C UBADivers

foundation and the landscaping.”

Each job begins with an on-site consultation. Loren often walks the property with the homeowner, discussing practical and aesthetic goals. He spray-paints a proposed line in the grass to help clients visualize the layout before concrete is mixed.

“I always try to meet directly with the person making decisions,” he added. “That helps us avoid delays and ensures the customer is happy with the plan from the start.”

Referrals continue to drive much of the business. Neighbors of satisfied customers often see the results and want the same. When past clients move to new homes, they call Loren’s team again. That trust comes from consistent attention to detail.

The team goes out of its way to protect each client’s driveway and lawn. That care includes power washing and cleanup on

every job and making sure all waste concrete is removed.

“When we finish, the space should look better than when we started,” he said.

That same philosophy applies to business practices. While some companies rely on rigid contracts and deposits, Concrete Borders operates with a personal touch.

“We try to be flexible with people’s schedules and budgets,” Loren said. “That’s just the way we’ve always done things.”

Loren speaks with pride and expertise built over decades of craftsmanship. He discusses concrete mixes, fiber additives and curing techniques with ease. He recalls early years working with a family friend to test mix ratios for strength and flexibility.

Loren values the impact a well-crafted border can have on a home. That same respect for lasting work carries into his

Barndominium

personal life, where he enjoys time with his 12 grandchildren and creating meaningful memories.

Asked what motivates him after three decades, Loren didn’t hesitate.

“Every job is different, but seeing a client’s reaction and satisfaction after the project is completed is a real treat. Every yard has its own challenges and personality. We get to solve problems and create something beautiful, and I get to do it with family. That’s a real blessing.”

From curved tree rings to flowing lines that make mowing easier, Concrete Borders delivers craftsmanship, practical design and family-driven service — one smooth line at a time.

To schedule a consultation or learn more, contact Concrete Borders at 574-361-9672 or visit theconcreteborders.com.

JULY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Solutiomns

50. Impassively 56. Start and end of the Three Musketeers’ motto

Has

In ___ of

Layer

Versifier 61. Kind

Canyon-esque 43. Out of practice 45. “Peter and the Wolf” bird 48. Oregon ___

Haul

DOWN 1. Feather holder?

Caterer’s dispenser

Bake sale offering

Hot spot

Fleet components

Crazily

Acquires

Charge carrier

In addition

Mining finds

Clappers

Mall conveniences

Spar

On pins and needles

Songlike

Deep vein thrombosis (abbr.) 42. Ancient fabulist

Downtime

Like a crone

Pugilist’s weapon

Enough to tango

United

Turned on

Ang or Spike

Compliment to the

BONTRAGER TRACTOR

Writer / Melissa Gibson

Harley Bontrager has always loved working on motors. Even as a child, tinkering with his dad’s various machines on the farm, he was intrigued and enjoyed taking things apart and putting them back together.

He owned a construction company for more than 15 years but chose to shift gears, launching Bontrager Tractor in late 2023 with his brother and brother-in-law, Vernon and Devon.

Bontrager said that with their vast amount of knowledge and experience, they make a great team.

He’s currently a Yanmar dealer, featuring agricultural equipment, tractors and UTVs, and offers repair and maintenance services.

“Yanmar offers a 10-year warranty. It’s by far the best on the market. They have faith in their product, and we’ve had very good success with them,” Bontrager said. “We also offer zero percent financing with competitive rates and occasional discounts.”

In

attachments, including bush hogs, tillers, graders, grapples and more.

In the retail portion of the shop, customers can pick up batteries, belts, filters, oil and hydraulic hoses, among many other options.

They occasionally have some used tractors and other machinery as well.

For Bontrager, he doesn’t buy into pressure sales and gimmicks. He simply believes in the Yanmar product and the services they offer.

“I don’t ever want to be the reason someone buys a tractor. You’re not going to come in and I persuade you to buy something you don’t need. That makes an unhappy customer,” Bontrager said. “I feel like providing a good, solid piece of equipment and establishing a trusted relationship is most important. We want Bontrager to be a trusted name, and we’re promoting the quality and service we offer.”

With summer in full swing, Bontrager said regular maintenance will become even more important to make the large machinery last.

Similar to a vehicle, if you’re not checking the oil and the filters, it’s a safe bet the machine will begin to have issues.

“It’s not uncommon to have customers bring something in that has long been neglected, but the small stuff matters. What’s important for any motor — making sure all of your fluids are topped off, keeping it in good running condition — will help maintain the longevity of your engine,” Bontrager said. “Some of that can be done from home, but you’re welcome to have the service shop check it out, and it’s always a good idea to get an annual inspection.”

As a new business, Bontrager has plans for the future and hopes

Exquisite ELEGANCE

Custom Metal

KITCHEN HOODS

Accent your kitchen with a beautiful metal range hood. Fully customized to your specs and style.

“We’d

Bontrager

Bontrager

HARNESSING TALENT

CRAFTSMANSHIP AND TRADITION DRIVE NEWBURYPORT HARNESS

Carl Miller worked in a harness shop in Shipshewana for more than 20 years before deciding to launch his own business in 2018.

The Newburyport Harness Shop offers leather goods, including harnesses, dog collars, belts, billfolds and more.

He also creates show harnesses, similar to what you’d find on the Budweiser Clydesdales.

“The harnesses for show have to be very precise. You make an error and you have to start over. It’s got to be right because every little mistake shows up,” Miller said.

That’s not to say he’s not working toward perfection on all the projects he creates.

“I’m kind of a perfectionist. No one wants a job half done, so I take a lot of pride in a satisfied customer. I want them to be happy with the finished product,” Miller said.

The quality of the leather makes a big difference when Miller purchases his product.

“I buy a chrome-tanned leather. You can use it for several different things. Depending on how they tan it, it’s a lot stronger and thicker. If you go with the Western hides, it’s tougher because of the weather conditions out there,” Miller said.

In addition to cowhide and deerskin, Miller also works with synthetic material, a coated rubber nylon.

Those shopping at the Shipshewana market or buying a new leather item from a store may not know the difference between genuine leather and fake. However, the type of leather will make a difference in how long an item remains in good condition.

“There are all kinds of grades of leather. You can buy cheap, imported leather, but I

NEWBURY HARNESS SHOP

Over 30 Year of Experience

• Handmade Leather Harness

• Leather Repair

• Leather Dip Tank

• Handmade custom Leather belts & Halters, billfolds, checkbook covers, money clips

• Saddle Repairs

• Purse Repairs

• Sales of Liniments, Fly Spray, First Aid Collars, Pads, Brushes, combs, Neck & Leg Ropes & More

350-7872 3910 N 1000 W Shipshewana, IN 46565 Hours: Mon-Fri: 12pm to 4:30pm Sat: 8am - 12pm

stay away from those, and I stay away from water buffalo leather too,” Miller said. “I only use deerskin or cowhides, which is a good, strong leather for a harness.”

The treatment of the item can make a difference too.

“It’s important to take care of them. Leather harnesses should be oiled once per year in order to condition it. If you don’t, it’ll dry out as the oil evaporates from the heat and cold and sweat,” Miller said.

After cutting the leather into whatever widths necessary, the artistry begins.

“I like working with leather and building harnesses and repairing things. It takes five or six hours for a billfold, for instance. I cut it out and then sew it together with a sewing machine,” Miller said.

He’s got his son working with him on occasion, but typically it’s the solitary work

Miller

“I always tell my customers, if it doesn’t fit right, bring it back. I want it to be right,” Miller said.

Newburyport Harness Shop is at 3910 N. 1000 West, Shipshewana.

DIGGING DEEP

SUNNYBROOK EXCAVATING EARNS TRUST THROUGH PRECISION

Writer / Ashley Callan Photographer / Jessica Whitehead

In 2018, Devon Yoder turned his passion and knowledge of excavation into Sunnybrook Excavating. Since then, the business has grown and has served the Michiana region with professional excavation services.

To Yoder and the trained experts at Sunnybrook Excavating, it’s important not only that they excel at their work but that they enjoy doing it too. “It’s the

pride we put into each and every job that creates a level of professionalism,” Yoder explained.

Sunnybrook Excavating’s skilled workers are experts in septic and sewer excavation, drainage digging, demolition, site preparation, land clearing (including tree and topsoil removal), agriculture services (including farm field tilling), foundation work, basement and driveway excavation,

pond building, concrete prep, base preparation, governmental excavation services, including road work.

Sunnybrook Excavating’s success has flourished through the work of skilled employees who treat each excavation job with the utmost importance.

Sunnybrook Excavating’s relationships with its clients are just as important as the groundwork it creates for their projects. Building strong rapport and promising top-tier results from start to finish is the foundation of the business.

Sunnybrook Excavating prides itself on its transparency, dedication and fairness — being upfront about expectations and offering affordable rates in the region.

Yoder says they’ve stayed ahead when it comes to technology. “We have embraced the use of drones, GPS and laser control machines to really deliver something special to our clients,” he said. Through

Yoder explained information is easier to access from laser control equipment, GPS technology and drones, and that these tools increase efficiency by providing more accurate and detailed data — especially for grading and related services.

Sunnybrook Excavating has had a busy 2025 thus far with a slate of commercial building work, including parking lots and new construction site preparation such as creating large-square-foot building pads that support foundations. The team also worked in Niles, Michigan, where it helped prepare the groundwork for a pavilion, basketball and pickleball courts at a local park.

Even though Sunnybrook Excavating works in residential construction, Yoder says the company’s future is focused on commercial projects across Michiana.

For more information, visit sunnybrookexcavatingmichiana.com.

• CONCRETE WATERPROOFING

• PERIMETER TILING

• ACRYLIC COATINGS

• ABOVE GRADE FOUNDATION FINISHING

•

• GREATLY REDUCES CONDENSATION & MOLD ON FOUNDATION WALLS

• INCREASES CURB APPEAL AND RESALE VALUE

TIKTOK BOAT DIP

Prep Time 5 minutes

Chill Time 2 hours

INGREDIENTS

• 16 ounces sour cream

• 1 packet taco seasoning

• 1 (10.5oz.) can Rotel with green chilies drained

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the sour cream and taco seasoning until fully combined.

2. Add in the drained tomatoes and cheese and stir until evenly incorporated.

3. Refrigerate for 2 hours.

4. Service with your favorite Chips, Crackers, Pretzels, or Breads.

SUNSET APPLIANCES SHINES

FAMILY-OWNED SHOP HAS SERVED THE TRI-COUNTY AREA FOR OVER A DECADE

Writer / Emily Whitcomb

August of 2004 found newly married Harley and Loranna Bontrager in Swartz Appliances in Goshen, the closest appliance shop to Topeka. Harley Bontrager mentioned to the owner that if he ever thought about selling his shop, Bontrager would be interested. He’d been

wanting to do something himself beyond working at the factory and saw a future in providing appliances for Topeka. That day planted a seed, which sprouted nearly 10 years later when Swartz’s owner came to Topeka and took Bontrager up on his offer.

The business moved up to Topeka on March 15, 2014, and became Sunset Appliances. The name comes from the view of the sunsets the family has in Topeka.

Bontrager runs Sunset Appliances with his wife, Loranna Bontrager, and

their two adult children, Andrew and Geneva Bontrager. In addition to Sunset Appliances, the Bontragers own an Ezee Glow heating stove store, which Geneva is also heavily involved in. All of Sunset Appliances’ service calls are conducted by Andrew.

“Our main goal is to attract newlyweds for a new refrigerator and a new range,” Bontrager says.

The purchase of a new refrigerator and a range comes with free delivery and hookup.

“It’s just us giving back to the customer, because not everybody has the means of hauling a new refrigerator and a range. And not everybody’s comfortable with hooking up gas appliances,” Bontrager says.

Sunset Appliances offers kitchen ranges, gas water heaters, gas refrigerators, energy-efficient appliances, Ezee Glow

heating stoves, electric freezers, costefficient brass fittings for plumbing jobs, laundry spinners, wedding gift items, various gas and electric appliances and more. In addition to hooking up ranges, the Bontragers also do maintenance and recharge refrigerators.

While heaters are typically bought in the fall, Sunset Appliances sells and hooks them up year-round.

Topeka, Indiana, is a small town, and each business makes an impact on its customers. Even in just 10 years, Sunset Appliances has made an impact across generations.

“What I really notice is maybe the mom and dads have gotten something like a new refrigerator like eight or 10 years ago. Maybe now their children are getting married and now they walk into the store, [and] they say, mom and dad advised us to go to Sunset Appliances,” Bontrager says. “And that’s always good to hear like that.”

A small business has its bumps along the way, but over everything, the people are what make it all worth it.

“I would say my favorite thing is just interacting with the customer. It makes me feel good to sell somebody something that they really like,” Bontrager says.

“Otherwise you have ups and downs in a business, in any business, and you’ll have times where something might not go as you want it to go. You just [have to] deal with them and try to just be honest and be upright with the customer and that’s [going to] go a long way.”

Sunset Appliances services the tri-county area, including LaGrange, Elkhart and Noble counties. For servicing inquiries, the Bontragers can be reached at 260-593-2384.

Visit Sunset Appliances at 6405 S. 900 West, Topeka, IN.

Elkhart County 4

STARS & STRIPES SOCIAL –GOSHEN

CELEBRATE THE STARS & STRIPES WITH FOOD AND SHOPPING SPECIALS IN DOWNTOWN GOSHEN.

10–12

BRISTOL HOMECOMING

FAMILY FUN WITH CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES, ENTERTAINMENT, RIDES AND FOOD. A PARADE SATURDAY WITH FIREWORKS AT DUSK.

12

KID’S DAY AT THE FARMER’S MARKET – THE MILL, MIDDLEBURY

CALLING ALL KID-PRENEURS! IT’S YOUR TIME TO SHINE BY OFFERING YOUR HANDMADE ITEMS AS A VENDOR AT NO COST. REGISTRATION REQUIRED.

17

GROOVIN’ IN THE GARDENS

WELLFIELD BOTANIC GARDENS ENJOY THE INTERNATIONAL ROLLING STONES TRIBUTE SHOW.

26

5TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF HOPE – GOSHEN BREWING CO.

A COMMUNITY DAY OF GIVING HOSTED BY THE CENTER FOR HEALING & HOPE, WITH MUSIC, CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES, VENDORS, FOOD TRUCKS AND MORE.

Kosciusko County 5

FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS –TIPPECANOE LAKE, LEESBURG

CELEBRATE AMERICA WITH A FIREWORKS SHOW LAUNCHED FROM A BARGE ON THE MAIN BASIN OF THE LAKE.

11

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES –WARSAW

A FREE CONCERT FEATURING THE MUSIC OF JOHN MELLENCAMP.

12

TOUCH A TRUCK – THE VILLAGE AT WINONA LAKE

GET AN UP-CLOSE LOOK AT VARIOUS TRUCKS AND MACHINERY—FUN FOR KIDS AND ADULTS.

19

TOUR DES LAKES – SYRACUSE

LEISURELY BIKE RIDE WITH THREE ROUTE OPTIONS AROUND EIGHT SCENIC LAKES IN KOSCIUSKO COUNTY.

26

DIXIE DAY FESTIVAL – NORTH

WEBSTER

ENJOY LOCAL SHOPPING, FOOD AND CRAFT VENDORS, PLUS A BOAT AND CAR/TRUCK SHOW.

Noble County

4

PHILHARMONIC PATRIOTIC POPS & YPN

GIVES A POP – KENDALLVILLE

BOUNCE HOUSES, FOOD TRUCKS AND LIVE MUSIC AT BIXLER LAKE PARK.

6

BARNSTORMERS CLASSIC CAR SHOW –SYLVAN CELLARS, ROME CITY

ICONIC AND RARE VEHICLES ON DISPLAY IN A NOSTALGIC SETTING.

12–19

NOBLE COUNTY FAIR – KENDALLVILLE

ANNUAL 4-H FAIR WITH ANIMAL SHOWS, CARNIVAL RIDES, FOOD VENDORS AND MORE.

St. Joseph County

1–5 ST. JOSEPH COUNTY

4-H FAIR – SOUTH BEND

CELEBRATE THE 100TH FAIR WITH NINE DAYS OF FAMILYFRIENDLY FUN.

4 FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION –LAKEVILLE

AN EVENING OF FAMILY FUN WITH CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES, A LIVE DJ, FOOD TRUCKS, PRIZES AND FIREWORKS.

FIRST FRIDAYS KID’S NIGHT OUT –DOWNTOWN SOUTH BEND

12 FOAM FEST – MISHAWAKA

FOAM MACHINES, WATERSLIDES AND MORE FOR $10 PER CHILD.

27

WESTSIDE BBQ & CRAFT FESTIVAL –SOUTH BEND

LIVE MUSIC, ARTISAN VENDORS AND FOOD HIGHLIGHT THIS CELEBRATION OF THE WEST SIDE.

Shipshewana/LaGrange County

4

TOPEKA FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION

FROM A PANCAKE AND SAUSAGE BREAKFAST TO FIREWORKS, ENJOY ALL-DAY FESTIVITIES IN TOPEKA.

5–12 LAGRANGE COUNTY 4-H FAIR

A NEW KIDS ZONE, PETTING ZOO AND PARADE HIGHLIGHT THE WEEKLONG FAIR.

25

LAGRANGE FINAL FRIDAYS – DOWNTOWN LAGRANGE

LIVE MUSIC, FOOD AND LOCAL VENDORS BRING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER.

26–27

AMISHLAND AND LAKES BIKE TOUR –BEGINS AT LAGRANGE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

TWO DAYS OF BIKING THROUGH THE AMISH COUNTRYSIDE AND LAKES OF NORTHEAST INDIANA. PLENTY TO EXPLORE, EXPERIENCE AND EAT!