The Lakes East Magazine May 2026

Cowlicks Ice Cream Shoppe Welcomes Guests For Season Three

BACKYARD RETREAT

RABER PATIO CREATES OUTDOOR SPACES FOR EVERYDAY LIVING

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May 8th & 9th

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

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CRAFTED TO LAST

STONEY ACRES WOODWORKING BRINGS CUSTOM DREAMS TO LIFE

Writer / Amy Beaucham

A home has a way of telling its story before a word is ever spoken. Sometimes that story is found in the warmth of rich wood beneath your feet, the graceful rise of a staircase, or the custom trim that frames a room with quiet elegance. In Shipshewana, Stoney Acres Woodworking has built its reputation on creating those details for families who want something real, lasting and distinctly their own.

Stoney Acres Woodworking has served the community since 1998, but the beginning of the business came from a very personal need. Leon Beachy explains that after he married in 1997, he wanted hardwood flooring in his own home. Then his brother wanted the same kind of floor in the house he was building. The problem was that no one in the area was truly specializing in that type of work. The company that had made Leon’s floor was too busy with other projects to do another.

That is when Leon’s father saw an opportunity.

“My dad decided if nobody else is making hardwood flooring in this area, he will,” Beachy says.

What started as a desire to put hardwood flooring in one family home soon grew into a thriving family business. Leon’s father, who had been farming on a dairy farm, used an empty furniture shop that had belonged

to Leon’s grandfather and began making hardwood flooring there. Leon helped after hours before joining the company full time in 2002. Over the years, the business grew steadily. Staircases were added in 2004.

Today, Stoney Acres Woodworking employs 29 people and continues to grow while remaining grounded in family and craftsmanship. Leon serves as president of the company, while his brother, Levi Jr., is co-owner. Family involvement runs deep throughout the business. Leon’s son leads the installation team, his son-in-law oversees the finishing operation, and Levi Jr.’s son leads the production team. Leon’s daughters contribute through staining and finishing, while other family members support the business through clerical work and home shows.

It is clear that family means a great deal to Leon. It is also clear that he sees that support as a blessing. “Behind every successful businessman stands a very good wife,” Beachy says.

That family-centered spirit carries over into

the way the company serves its customers. Stoney Acres Woodworking specializes in custom hardwood flooring, but its work also includes engineered flooring, staircases, rails, trim, interior doors and barn doors. What makes the company especially distinctive is the level of customization it offers. Customers are not simply choosing from a narrow set of preselected options. They are invited into a process that allows them to shape the finished result according to their own taste and vision.

“We are a custom hardwood flooring manufacturer,” Beachy says. “I can make flooring out of basically any species of wood, stain it to whatever color you want. The same thing goes to staircases, trim and doors.”

That kind of flexibility is a major reason Stoney Acres has found its niche. Leon says he is not aware of another flooring manufacturer in the area offering that same kind of custom work, especially when it comes to colors and wood choices.

flooring.

Customers can visit the company’s public showroom in Shipshewana and explore wood species, textures, stain colors, stair parts and design possibilities.

Beachy says the heart of the business is found in listening carefully and helping homeowners create what they have imagined.

“Meeting with homeowners in our showroom and identifying what they are looking for and trying to get in my vision the dream they’re looking for and providing the homeowner with the dream they’re trying to accomplish,” he says.

That dream may take many forms. Some customers are drawn to the beauty and character of hickory, which Beachy says is the company’s top seller and also his personal favorite because of its appealing variation in color. Others are interested in white oak, hard maple or red oak. Some want a more natural, flatter sheen. Others are

fascinated by texture, including hand-hewn, wire-brushed, hand-scraped and a reclaimed circle-sawn look that gives flooring a distinctive aged character.

There is beauty in that level of detail, but there is also practicality. Beachy is passionate about the long-term value of real hardwood flooring. He explains that a quality 3/4-inch solid hardwood floor can last for generations because it can be sanded and refinished multiple times over the life of the home. For homeowners, that means they are not simply choosing something attractive for the moment. They are investing in a floor designed to endure.

That commitment to quality extends beyond appearance. The company sources kilndried lumber from providers within about a 100-mile radius of northern Indiana. It also makes thoughtful use of byproducts. Sawdust and shavings are baled for animal bedding, and wood scraps are used by a charcoal manufacturer. Leon notes that all

wood coming into the company leaves as a green product.

Stoney Acres Woodworking also reflects the values of the broader Shipshewana community. Leon says the area is rich with craftsmanship, and that spirit of working well and helping one another has benefited the business. There is a sense of connection among woodworkers in the region, with referrals flowing back and forth as customers seek different specialties for their homes.

That combination of craftsmanship, honesty and service has earned Stoney Acres a great deal of trust over the years. Much of the company’s business comes through word of mouth, something Leon clearly finds rewarding. He also values the opportunity the business gives him to provide jobs in the community and to build something that can be passed on to the next generation.

When asked what he hopes people remember about Stoney Acres Woodworking, his answer

goes deeper than hardwood, trim or stain colors.

“Integrity means something to us, and there’s one person we’re trying to serve and that’s the good Lord above us,” Beachy says.

That spirit may be one of the most beautiful things Stoney Acres builds. From custom flooring packages for homes and offices to staircases, doors and trim, the company is creating more than products. It is helping bring beauty, durability and meaning into the places where people live their everyday lives.

As Beachy puts it, Stoney Acres Woodworking tries to “bring life to the customer’s dreams.” In Shipshewana and beyond, that is exactly what this family business has been doing for decades.

Stoney Acres Woodworking is located at 2695 S. 1000 W. In Shipshewana. For more information, call 260-768-4367 or email stoneyacresacc@gmail.com.

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CUSTOM CAGES, LOCAL SERVICE

FINDING THE RIGHT SOLUTION AT SUPERIOR CAGES OF BREMEN

As 4-H season begins to stir across northern Indiana, many families are once again thinking about rabbits, carriers and the practical details that help an animal stay safe, comfortable and ready for the season ahead. One of the most important details is finding the right cage — one that is durable, sensibly built and suited to the exact needs of both animal and owner.

That is where Superior Cages in Bremen comes in.

Owned by Dewayne Miller, Superior Cages is a local business focused on custom-built animal cages, with the main emphasis on high-quality enclosures for rabbits and thoughtfully meeting the specific needs of those who care for and raise them. The business may be modest in size, but it fills an important niche for area customers who want something more personal, dependable and thoughtfully made.

Miller says the business began in a simple, practical way. He began exploring ways to work from home in the evenings, rather

Writer / Amy Beaucham

than taking on side work that would pull him away from his family or require more travel. With Superior Cages, that goal became possible.

“I wanted something that I could do at home,” he says. “My wife and my daughter can come out in the shop with me if they want to. There’s no loud or dangerous

machinery. So it’s something my family can be around me while I’m doing it.”

That desire for balance still shapes the business today. Miller continues to work a daytime job at Excellent Powder Coating, where he has developed a strong understanding of materials and finishes. Superior Cages, however, remains his

evening and Saturday venture — one that allows him to work with his hands while staying close to home.

The roots of the business also reach back to his boyhood. Miller grew up on a farm and raised rabbits as a young boy. Some were sold as pets, while others were raised as part of the practical side of farm life. That early experience gave him familiarity with what rabbits need and how cages should function.

“As boys, we sometimes made our own cages for our rabbits,” he says.

Superior Cages took shape when Miller learned that another cage maker was stepping away and selling off inventory. After purchasing the inventory, Miller began building his own business. Early outreach brought only a limited response, but the business gained momentum when he started setting up booths at local smallanimal auctions. Those events allowed

customers to see the cages in person, ask questions and place orders, while also helping build the kind of reputation that grows through personal connections and satisfied customers.

Miller says he most enjoys working directly with people in his community and helping them find exactly what they need.

“I’d like to interact with my customers and not just be a company that they’re buying from,” he says. “I want to be a person that they know.”

That mindset reflects not only his interest in supplying customers with well-built cages, but also in creating the kind of experience that encourages them to return.

That approach comes through in the ordering process. Many customers already know exactly what they need, especially those who have raised rabbits for years. When someone wants a custom cage,

Miller listens carefully, writes down the measurements and details, asks questions when needed, and then provides a quote and a plan. Once approved, he heads into the shop and begins cutting the wire, assembling the structure, adding legs, trays and doors, and finishing the piece with careful attention to detail and safety.

Superior Cages accommodates both

commonly requested sizes and more tailored requests, allowing customers to choose from proven designs or adjust details to suit their particular setup. Miller tries to keep a few cages in stock, especially popular sizes such as a 24by-36 three-tier cage. He also offers carriers, which are smaller wire enclosures designed for transporting rabbits to shows, auctions or other destinations, with the door usually placed on top for convenience. Some customers also request handles.

One of the strengths of Superior Cages is the combination of durable materials, practical design and careful attention to detail. Miller uses galvanized-afterweld wire, which offers important advantages for longevity. He explains that with galvanized-before-weld wire, the protective coating can wear away at the welded corners, leaving spots that may rust sooner. With galvanized-after-weld wire, the coating protects those welded

areas as well.

“Your wire will last five to 10 times longer before it rusts out,” he says.

That kind of durability matters, especially for cages used in barns, sheds or outdooradjacent settings.

Safety is another important part of the design. Miller works carefully to avoid sharp protruding wires and uses door liners to cover rough-cut edges around openings. He also offers solid poly dividers in divided cages so rabbits cannot reach through the wire and injure one another.

That feature can be especially helpful for 4-H families with show rabbits, since even a small scratch on the nose could create a problem in the ring.

“One thing to keep in mind is you want a cage that might protect your rabbit from anything that might put him out of the

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show,” Miller says.

In addition to cages, he also carries supplies such as feeders, water cups, nest boxes and other practical accessories. He hopes to expand that side of the business in the future when he has more room. For now, he is focused on handling current requests well and building relationships that bring customers back.

That already seems to be happening. Miller recalls a customer who returned for additional purchases after comparing prices elsewhere. Repeat customers, he says, mean a great deal.

“That’s something I really look forward to,” he says.

Superior Cages operates from Miller’s property in Bremen, where customers can pick up orders or view available cages and carriers by appointment. It is not a storefront with set hours, but a working local shop

where customers can speak with Dewayne directly before he creates a cage designed to meet their specific needs and concerns.

For Lakes West readers preparing for the 4-H season, expanding a rabbit setup, or looking for a practical custom option for small animals, Superior Cages offers something valuable: local service, thoughtful craftsmanship and the opportunity to work one-on-one with Dewayne Miller as he helps create a cage that truly fits.

In a world where business can sometimes feel hurried and less personal, Dewayne Miller offers something that still matters — careful workmanship, personal attention and a genuine commitment to the people he serves.

Superior Cages is located at 2664 4C Rd. In Bremen. You can call 574-546-0366. Customers are encouraged to call ahead before stopping by.

HOT FLASHES & BELLY LAUGHS

LOCAL AUTHOR PROVES LAUGHTER IS GREAT HORMONE THERAPY BY WRITING A HUMOR BOOK ABOUT PERIMENOPAUSE

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing

W“Christy Heitger-Ewing’s book ‘Why Did I Walk into This Room?’ is drop-dead hilarious. She writes about everything we talk about with our BFFs, splaying taboos in her uniquely amusing way. This is a book for every single one of us.”

Wendy Liebman, comedian and semifinalist on “America’s Got Talent”

hen women reach a certain age (usually their 40s), we start having conversations with other females that often begin like this: “So, I’ve been dealing with this weird thing lately …”

That “weird thing” could be anything from itchy ears and dry eyes to a racing mind and unquenchable thirst. It could be facial hair, dizziness, dry skin, acne, excessive clumsiness, inability to focus, sudden fear of driving or an impending sense of doom.

If you find yourself questioning the cause of these symptoms, I’ll save you some time by letting you know that all this nonsense is due to perimenopause, which is that stretch of time prior to menopause when your body produces less estrogen. I’m sorry to be the one to break it to you, but this transition period can last up to 10 years. If you’re between the ages of 40 and 55 (perhaps even younger) and are experiencing annoying, odd or surprising physical or mental symptoms, it’s likely perimenopause.

For five years, I grappled with terrible insomnia, thinning hair, intense anxiety, regular headaches, restless legs, dry mouth, painful hip, achy shoulder, throbbing joints and brutally heavy periods. In addition to being hot, itchy, anxious and overwhelmed, I felt like I was losing my mind as I struggled to recall certain words. Plus, I’d forget passcodes and people’s names. I’d space where I’d placed my keys, shoes, purse or phone. I’d leave to run errands, get to the front of the neighborhood and have to stop and think about where I was going so I knew whether to turn left or right out of the subdivision. I’d be in the middle of a task and get sidetracked by some random thought like, ‘If a cat’s fur goes up its own nose, does it tickle?’

Focus, Christy! Focus!

As if all of this wasn’t bad enough, stray hairs began sprouting above my upper lip, and pimples began forming on my chin. WTF? I looked like a cross between my husband and my teenager, with facial hair and zits. And every day, regardless of how much rest I got the night before, I was dog-tired.

Finally, after talking to other women, I put the puzzle pieces together to determine I was in perimenopause — and it was kicking my ass.

I sought relief from my primary care doctor and OB-GYN, but it all proved futile. I complained about painful sex and was told to try lube. I complained about waking up drenched in sweat and was told to

crank the AC down and blow a fan in my face. I complained about sleeping poorly and was told to drink tea in the evening. Essentially, the resounding response I got was a shoulder shrug and the message: “Eh, this is all part of growing older as a woman.”

Screw that!

When I met with a functional wellness doctor who specialized in hormone optimization, I felt seen, heard and validated as she listened, took notes, drew my blood and built a plan. She was able to offer evidence-based, practical strategies to get me back to the land of the living. Woo-hoo!

Did you know that during perimenopause you may suffer anywhere from 10 to 100 symptoms that range from mildly irritating to beyond aggravating? You may experience vertigo, rage, nausea, panic, frequent UTIs, heart palpitations, acid reflux, tendinitis, sore breasts and phantom smells. Sadly, this is not a comprehensive list.

However, I found an upside. You get to blame everything on perimenopause! If you forget what you were saying mid-sentence, that’s perimenopause’s fault. If you put your husband’s underwear in your kid’s drawer or your dog’s food in your cat’s dish, perimenopause is the culprit. If you drop a plate while unloading the dishwasher or trip over your own feet on the way to the bathroom, that’s the work of perimenopause. If you want to claw your spouse’s eyes out for

breathing or chewing loudly — perimenopause. You get the idea.

It really is ridiculous how hormones have rewired my mind and reconstructed my body. At a certain point, you have to laugh. When I found myself Googling “tips for tolerating people,” I knew I must write a humor book about the experience.

“Why Did I Walk into This Room? Finding the Humor When Perimenopause Is Kicking Your Ass” is for any woman who feels isolated, stuck, exhausted and misunderstood in midlife.

This book offers hope for the hopeless, clarity for the confused, enthusiasm for the apathetic and laughter for the lethargic. If perimenopause has commandeered your brain, wiped you of energy and motivation, and wreaked havoc on your sleep and sex drive, this book is just what the functional wellness doctor ordered.

Christy Heitger-Ewing will be speaking to the Wonderful Women of Hamilton County about perimenopause and signing copies of her new book at 6 p.m. March 24 at Goodness Gracious Kitchen & Cupboard. To RSVP to this event, visit tinyurl.com/jz35rc9s.

For more information or to purchase a copy of “Why Did I Walk into This Room?” visit christyheitger-ewing.com.

Glen & Ruth Miller, Owners

RUSTIC SPOON

NEW TOPEKA RESTAURANT QUICKLY WINS COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Writer / Melissa Gibson Photographer / Kari Lipscomb

Earlier this year, a new restaurant came to Topeka, Indiana, and Rustic Spoon has proven to be more popular than owners Steven and Jolene Bontrager could have imagined.

Steven Bontrager has worked in the RV industry for the past 30 years, but when the owner of the previous restaurant at 5990 W. 200 South decided to sell, the opportunity to open their own restaurant piqued the Bontragers’ interest.

“My wife started looking into names for

the restaurant and tossing around ideas. She liked Rustic Spoon. We repainted the entire interior, but for the most part, this old building has been here for years, and it’ll look familiar to those who come in and have a look around,” Steven Bontrager says.

One major change customers will see is the menu, and it appears the Bontragers have the community’s approval.

“Right now, we’ve got smashburgers, which seem to be pretty popular, and we

offer a soup and salad bar, which I’ve been told has never been here before, so that’s brand new,” Bontrager says. “We don’t have a big breakfast menu, but we do have a great breakfast smashburger. It’s got two sausage patties, egg, bacon and spicy bacon jam on it.”

Breakfast also includes biscuits and gravy, eggs and more.

Lunch and dinner selections include pulled pork sandwiches, a variety of appetizers and ice cream for dessert.

It’s not uncommon to find Steven behind the grill, but the Bontragers are also making it a point to train all employees in all positions.

“We rotate employees, so everyone knows the whole system. In the evenings, I’m often on the grill or the fryer; I’m back in the kitchen, and we’re probably going to put some employees in the kitchen if that’s their strength, but for the most part, we’re aiming for everyone to be able to step into any position needed,” Bontrager says.

They’re just getting started, and Bontrager says it’s hard to say what the future holds. However, for the time being, they have everything they can handle and will continue listening to customers and trying to meet their expectations.

“We are starting the process of adding pizza to the menu. We’re not quite there yet, but I imagine this spring we’ll offer

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BREAKFAST - LUNCH - DINNER

pizza,” Bontrager says.

They’re also considering a scheduling change to their opening hours.

“We’ve been open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., but I think we’re going to change that a bit to opening at 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays,” Bontrager says.

Most of all, Bontrager says when he and Jolene chose to open Rustic Spoon, he couldn’t have imagined all the positives that would come of it.

To start, Rustic Spoon doesn’t yet have a website or Facebook page; however, that hasn’t stopped the customers from coming.

“It’s been a lot of word of mouth. Our landlord has sent a lot of people this way, and I know people are posting about us on Facebook,” Bontrager says. “Our

biggest advertiser at the moment is our customers.”

The experience has also brought people closer together — neighbors meeting neighbors and a community supporting a small local business.

“It’s more than what we’d hoped for. We’ve received so much positive feedback, and it’s just been huge. I expected things to start a lot slower.

We have 18 employees or so and need every one of them because it’s just so busy,” Bontrager says. “We’ve also met a lot of new people that don’t live far from us, and we’d never met them before. That’s the fun part to me. We enjoy visiting with people and learning more about them.”

For more information or to check on operating hours, call 260-214-5044.

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BACKYARD RETREAT

RABER PATIO CREATES OUTDOOR SPACES FOR EVERYDAY LIVING

Writer / Amy Beaucham Photographer / Kari Lipscomb

A beautiful day in northern Indiana has a way of drawing people outside. Morning coffee seems to taste a little better on the deck, dinner can feel more relaxed when it lingers into the evening air, and even a quiet moment in a favorite chair can feel like something special as the light shifts across the yard.

These are the moments homeowners hold onto, and for many, they are exactly what make a house feel like home.

Raber Patio Enclosures & Furniture has built its business around helping people experience more of those moments, creating spaces that offer both comfort and protection while still allowing homeowners to feel connected to the outdoors.

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Located in Shipshewana, Raber Patio Enclosures & Furniture is known for sunrooms, patio enclosures, pergolas, pavilions, decks and outdoor furniture. The products are impressive, but what leaves a lasting impression is something less tangible: the way customers feel throughout the process, a focus rooted in family, faith and genuine care that has shaped the company from the very beginning.

Chris Schlabach, CEO and co-owner, came into the business through family. His wife, Delores, is the daughter of founder Ervin Raber, and Schlabach had already taken on significant leadership responsibilities long before the transition officially took place.

When he and Ervin’s son, Dean Raber, stepped into ownership on Jan.

1, 2018, “not a lot changed, really, as far as the operation of it,” Schlabach says, and by then, he had already been guiding the business for years.

That kind of continuity speaks to the foundation Ervin Raber established when he started the company in 1987 and to the commitment of those who have carried it forward.

Ervin Raber was a mason by trade and an entrepreneur by nature. While in Florida in the 1980s, he noticed EZE-Breeze windows and wanted them for a screen room back home in Indiana. When he called to find out where he could purchase them, he discovered there was no dealer in the area, so he asked if he could become one.

He could.

A sample kit arrived, and he placed an order for his porch. Before the shipment even came in, he had already begun sharing the idea with neighbors and lining up additional projects, and what started as one improvement quickly grew into something much larger.

Schlabach says Ervin’s approach was always centered on people.

“He would always teach us that it doesn’t matter what a warranty says,” Schlabach says. “You take care of the customer, because they’re going to refer the next person to you if they have a good experience.”

That mindset continues to guide the company today.

P.J. Gilsinger & Co.

A Place to Visit!

Raber Patio’s mission is “to provide the most upstanding service experience with exceptional backyard comfort,” and Schlabach explains that the word experience is intentional because it goes beyond customer service and reflects an awareness of how people feel from the first conversation to the final details of a project.

Over time, that approach has built strong relationships with thousands of customers.

Today, the company completes roughly 550 jobs each year and has served around 8,000 customers, and with more than 30 employees, three installation crews and three service technicians, the business has grown steadily while maintaining its personal touch.

Growth came with thoughtful planning, particularly as patio enclosures and sunrooms were once highly seasonal.

Schlabach saw the need to create more consistent, year-round work, so he brought in replacement windows for homes, allowing the company to stay busy through the winter months. Today, one crew focuses on sunrooms, another on decks and pavilions, and another on house windows.

That expansion naturally leads to repeat business. A homeowner who first calls for a sunroom may return years later for windows or another outdoor structure, and the trust established from the very beginning often carries forward, opening the door to future projects.

A warehouse expansion in 2021 marked another important step, improving efficiency by giving crews a central location for materials while separating warehouse operations from the retail showroom, which makes a noticeable difference for a company with multiple crews heading out each day.

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Raber Patio remains especially well known for its sunrooms, with one standout product being the EZE-Breeze vertical track system, which uses vinyl panels that slide within tracks and collapse together, allowing up to 75% airflow and giving homeowners the option of an open, breezy feel or the shelter of a three-season space depending on the day.

For all-season rooms, the company offers a vinyl-clad system designed to reduce condensation, an important consideration during northern Indiana winters.

When families think about holiday gatherings, they are usually imagining warmth, comfort and time together — not moisture on the walls, something Raber Patio works to prevent by creating spaces that feel inviting year-round.

5641 S. Main St. Winamac, Indiana May-October Friday & Sunday 1:00pm - 6:00pm November-April by Appointment Only

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Those conversations begin early, with one of the first questions posed to the customer being how the space will actually be used. A threeseason room may be ideal for a lake home or for those who travel during the winter months, while others prefer an all-season room that functions more like a full extension of the home.

The company also helps guide homeowners through the planning process.

Permits, approvals and variances can feel overwhelming, particularly near lakes or within homeowners associations, and while construction may require only a few days, the planning and approval phase often requires much more time and patience.

By handling much of that work, Raber Patio can help simplify and often expedite a process that might otherwise take a homeowner far longer to manage alone.

Customization plays a key role as well.

Some homeowners envision accent walls, fireplaces or spaces designed around a specific view, while others are planning a larger outdoor setting that includes a pergola, pavilion, deck, furniture, a covered grilling area or even a full outdoor kitchen, which Schlabach often refers to as part of being “the backyard improvement company,” a phrase that reflects the wide range of features they offer.

New offerings continue to broaden that appeal. Motorized pergolas with adjustable louvers allow homeowners to control sunlight and shade throughout the day, and outdoor kitchens are becoming increasingly popular, giving families more ways to gather and spend time outside.

Schlabach says outdoor cooking is one of the biggest trends the company sees, and structures such as pavilions or pergolas can provide welcome cover over those spaces while still allowing for proper ventilation.

Even with a wide range of products, follow-through remains essential, and Raber Patio places a strong emphasis on taking care of customers even after the project is complete.

Rather than relying on manufacturers to eventually address issues, the company has its own service technicians ready to respond, and in many cases, help is scheduled within days. Even when a repair cannot be completed immediately, customers know the issue is being addressed.

That commitment shows up in customer feedback.

Ed Swieter shared, “We think the builders at Raber Patio are top-notch and very good at what they do. We are enjoying the finished product. We would not hesitate to have them do more for us (if the need arises).”

Bonnie Ikamas wrote, “They resolved the issue extremely quickly. They just replaced it, and the crew was efficient and courteous.”

Yvonne Constant described her experience with a lake-facing threeseason room as “on time, efficient, and very comfortable to work with,” adding that she would gladly hire the company again.

Schlabach believes those responses come back to something simple.

“I think it’s just how we make them feel,” he says.

That focus extends within the company as well. Raber Patio invests in employee development through Dale Carnegie training and DISC personality instruction, helping team members better understand communication and relationships, and many employees stay for years, with some reaching 17 years or more.

Family values remain at the center.

Schlabach sums it up this way: “Our motto is God first, family second,” and he also points to the guiding principle found in scripture to love the Lord your God and to love your neighbor as yourself, a perspective that seems to shape not only how the company operates, but how it connects with both customers and employees.

Raber Patio is also active in the Shipshewana community, supporting local causes, sponsoring a dugout at the youth center, participating in parades and working alongside other businesses through the retail merchants association.

There is a shared sense of cooperation in the area, with businesses often helping visitors find what they need, even if it means sending them elsewhere.

One project that continues to stand out to Schlabach involved

the Make-A-Wish Foundation, when Raber Patio helped create a sunroom for a Fort Wayne family whose child loved being outside but needed protection from the sun and insects. Vendors contributed materials, and the cost to the family was greatly reduced.

Schlabach describes it simply as “a pretty cool experience,” and it is easy to see why that project has stayed with him.

For homeowners in the Lakes West region, that may be what resonates most.

Raber Patio Enclosures & Furniture builds sunrooms, pergolas, pavilions and outdoor living spaces, but the result is often something more personal — a place to gather, to relax and to enjoy everyday moments a little longer.

Raber Patio Enclosures & Furniture is located at 655 S. Van Buren St. in Shipshewana. For more information, give them a call at 260-7687100 or visit them online at raberpatios.com.

PIE PERFECTION

DALLAS LAKE BAKERY SERVES SIMPLE COMFORT IN WOLCOTTVILLE

Writer / Kristi Sellers

In a quiet corner of northeastern Indiana, there’s a place where life slows down in the best possible way. Inside Backcountry Outdoors, you’ll find more than outdoor gear and friendly conversation. You’ll find the delicious aroma of something warm, familiar and made with care.

Dallas Lake Bakery may be easy to miss if you’re not looking for it, but for those who know, it’s become a necessary stop and part of their day.

Owned by Steven and Regina Bontrager, Dallas Lake Bakery is housed under the same roof as Backcountry Outdoors. The bakery keeps things refreshingly simple. There’s no long menu to scan or a glass case filled with too many options. Instead, the focus is on one beloved item: fried pies.

“We’ve been open for about a year,” Steven says.

Focusing on one item currently is a choice that feels both intentional and refreshing. At a time when most places aim to offer more, Dallas Lake Bakery leans into doing less and focusing on a single item — and doing it very well.

That kind of clarity shows in every detail,

from the consistency of each pie to the care behind its preparation. It’s not so much about variety. It’s about getting it right every time.

Visitors might arrive looking for outdoor supplies, but many find themselves lingering a little longer than expected. The fried pies have a tendency to catch customers’ attention.

And then there are the pies themselves. Golden, crisp and filled with flavor, they offer a kind of comfort that doesn’t need explaining.

Whether it’s a familiar favorite or a seasonal variation, each one feels like something made not just to sell, but to share.

According to Steven, “We do rotate flavors but offer our most popular ones daily.”

Favorites include black raspberry, Bavarian

cream, apple, peach and pecan. Regulars know the routine. Some stop in often, others whenever they’re passing through, but nearly all leave with the same appreciation for something simple done well.

In a time when more often feels like the goal, Dallas Lake Bakery quietly takes the opposite approach: fewer choices and more intention, less rush and more meaning. It’s a place that doesn’t try to stand out, and because of that, it naturally does.

“We currently have 5 regular employees and also some others that help out if needed. Without them, this would not be possible,” Steven says.

While Dallas Lake Bakery has built its following on the simplicity of its fried pies, this is only the beginning. The owners have plans to expand the menu in the near future, introducing new items

Craig Martin

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•

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with the same care and attention that customers have come to appreciate.

Even as offerings grow, the focus will remain the same. Quality comes before quantity, and a commitment to serve something worth coming back for time and time again.

For locals, it’s more than a bakery. It’s part of the landscape, woven into the everyday moments that make a community feel like home.

And for those discovering it for the first time, it’s a reminder that sometimes the best places aren’t the biggest or the busiest. They’re the ones that keep things simple, welcome you in, and send you on your way with something worth remembering.

Make sure to drop by Dallas Lake Bakery at 0410 W. 700 S. in Wolcottville or call 260-214-4977.

FATHER’S FLAVOR

SUMMER GIFTS & GRILLING FOR DAD

June is only a few short weeks away, and with it comes the start of summer. We’re staying consistently warm now, but it hasn’t hit those hot days where being outside can sometimes be smothering. The sun gives us an embrace, running her warm fingers over our faces in the morning light to wake our senses in the gentlest of ways. A notable day in June is Father’s Day, the third Sunday of the month. When it comes to Father’s Day, I think the first thought for most people is barbecue. It’s delicious, everyone loves it, and dads like to

Writer / Miranda Medeiros

grill. It seems to be a universal experience among fathers to hold the post at the grill and be the master for the day.

New Kitchen Store has many unique grilling items, all of them sure to be used and loved for whoever you’d want to gift them to in June. From smoker wood chips in hickory, cherry wood or apple that are 100% natural with no additives, the selection is vast. We also carry a large variety of spices, including a select few of Steven Raichlen’s spices. The rest of the spices

we carry are all from Terra Spice out of South Bend, Indiana, where the pursuit of excellence is a priority.

All of the NKS spices we carry are fresh. Most spices you buy in a traditional grocery store are much past their true fresh date, and this really does alter the flavor profile they carry. Here at New Kitchen Store, each spice you buy is no older than 6 months, and it really shines through with how flavorful they are. If you’re a grill master, or know a grill master in need of

a refresh, we have a few blends that are unique and sure to bring a new light to the flavor you already love. From coffee barbecue, roasted garlic and wild mushroom, to a smoked apple barbecue seasoning, there are so many flavors to choose from.

Father’s Day has taken on a new meaning for me. With age, I’ve only come to love my dad more and more and appreciate all the ways he still acts as my hero as an adult. That’s the funny thing about parenting and growing up — you’re never truly done. I’m at a point in life where I now have my own family, but my parents are empty nesters in words alone. My sisters and I still badger them all the time, and it seems their home is never truly empty, but now filled with the little ones their daughters have brought back to the nest to be loved by them in turn.

My dad will still answer the phone sometimes on the first ring and always be the first to volunteer to help me when he sees I need it. He gave his life to his family, and he still does every day. I saw it in the way he was with me growing up, and I still see it now with how he plays with and cares for my daughter any

chance he gets.

The blessing of watching a father has only doubled now, because getting to see my husband become a father to our daughter is truly the best thing to behold. Our little girl loves waking her dad up early by climbing up the bed to jump on him and poking him in the eye because she now knows how to say the word. Seeing the little moments that’ll add up to the big ones means more than I could ever say.

So this Father’s Day is showing up in a new light to me, because it’s something so special that not every child gets, and to see the people in your life who step into that massive role and do it well, now that’s something worth celebrating. So whether it’s your dad, stepdad, godfather, family friend — whoever it is in your life who is your childhood hero — let’s fire up the grill this year and celebrate with so much love and joy that they have no other option but to realize how monumental their role in our lives is. Coming from a daughter, wife and mother in one, I don’t know where I would be without the men in my life, and I want to make sure they know it.

So stop by New Kitchen Store to see all the unique gifting options. 1100 Roosevelt Rd., Walkerton, IN 46574; (574) 586-2745.

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A&L Storage Barnsof Kendalville 901 W North St Kendallville, IN 46755

Mon–Fri: 11:00 AM–4:00 PM (260) 242-7608 AKRUD80@gmail.com

A&L Storage Barns of Benton Harbor 2535 M-139 Benton Harbor, MI 49022

Mon–Fri: 1:00 PM-6:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: 2:00 PM-5:00PM (269) 921-5727 | LKDEMLER@gmail.com

A&L Storage Barns of Kokomo 2312 N Plate St Kokomo, IN 46901

Monday & Friday: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Tuesday & Thursday: 10:00 AM-5:00PM

Wednesday: Closed Saturday: 10:00 AM-1:00PM Sunday: Closed Lot open for browsing 24/7 (765) 461-2286 AANDLBARNSOFKOKOMO@gmail.com

Angola Travel Stop 3096 West Maumee Street Angola, IN 46703 260-463-2975 X 1

Maple Lane Metals 13428 Springfield Center Rd Grabill, IN 46741 260-627-5000

J&D Woodworking 27951 Wasepi Rd Centerville, MI 49022 269-432-2788

JDWoodworking@IBYFAX.com

Maple Valley Garden Center 2552 E State Rd 2 Rolling Prairie, IN 46371 219-575-0139 Abom1983@gmail.com

EJ Flooring

20 W. 100 N. Winamac, IN 574-946-0111

Ejsflooring@hotmail.com

Renewed Marketplace 809 E. Vistula St. Bristol, IN 574-612-0367

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Oakes Enterprise 1912 US Hwy 12 Galien, MI 269-545-9020

Greg@oakerenterprises.com

BID Jackson 3150 Page Ave. Jackson, MI 269-217-5420

Wormans Outdoor Solutions 5597 W. IN 24 Logansport, IN 574-601-1629

Rabers Patio 815 N VanBuren St. Shipshewana, IN 260-336-1978 Merl@raberpatios.com

A AND L STORAGE

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TRUSTED TIMBER

MICHIANA TIMBER AND TREE OFFERS FULL-SERVICE TREE CARE

Writer / Ashley Watters

Caring for your wooded areas can be quite the chore. Whether you’re looking to trim or remove a problem tree in the yard, need storm-damaged trees cleaned up, have timber that needs harvested or managed for increased value, or just need a plan to clear an area for another purpose, Mel Slabach and his team at Michiana Timber and Tree are ready to help with your tree project.

A family-owned business, Michiana Timber and Tree began with the sale of firewood. They’re a fully licensed, bonded and insured provider specializing in tree service, timber harvesting and firewood processing, as well as land clearing in preparation for construction or water installation.

In the spring and summer months, the team at Michiana Timber and Tree spends most of its time on residential tree service, helping to remove trees and assist with storm cleanup. In the fall, Slabach and his team focus on timber harvesting.

“We have a qualified crew who has been harvesting timber for

20 years. They’ll come in and assess the situation and then selectively harvest your woodland responsibly, leaving it in the best condition possible so that it grows back quicker. Timber is a renewable resource, and our goal is to help our customers capitalize on that as much as possible,” Slabach says.

Michiana Timber and Tree focuses on sustainability and quality workmanship, treating your land with as much care as they would their own. In addition to purchasing your timber, Slabach and his team will also help market timber for customers. The team will set up an auction, bring in buyers, gather bids and close the sale on behalf of customers.

Forest management services are also available with strategic guidance to generate long-term value. The process begins with a forest assessment, followed by a salvage cut to remove lowquality trees and completed with a selective harvest of highvalue timber.

“We’re always striving to improve the areas we manage and create more valuable timber for our community. We want our friends and neighbors to know we’ll support their needs while helping to create more sustainable land,” Slabach says.

For landowners with goals of conservation, Michiana Timber

and

Commonly an outsourced project, forest management is a process Michiana Timber and Tree manages completely inhouse. With deep community roots and honest values, the team hopes to keep the community thriving while also supporting community members in managing the places they love and call home.

Slabach hopes you’ll consider Michiana Timber and Tree for all of your tree needs. His team also specializes in land clearing with a clear understanding of what needs to stay and what needs to go, effectively removing trees, stumps, brush and debris, all while preserving valuable trees.

The team provides free estimates for all work and promises transparency and customer satisfaction for every job.

Slabach does encourage homeowners to plan ahead, as the schedule frequently books one to three months out, and he knows it can be difficult to wait.

True to its humble roots, Michiana Timber and Tree also still

“We really want to make things easy for everyone who chooses to work with Michiana Timber and Tree and take care of everything from start to finish,” Slabach says.

To schedule your project with Michiana Timber and Tree, call Mel and his team at 260-350-3622 or visit MichianaTimberManagement.com.

KID FRIENDLY PATRIOTIC FLAVORED MARSHMALLOWS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 bag jumbo marshmallows

• 2 boxes your favorite Jell-O flavors (Strawberry & Berry Blue for Patriotic colors)

• 1 cup water

• toothpicks- for dipping

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Insert a toothpick into each marshmallow and arrange on a tray or cookie sheet.

2. Pour dry Jell-O powder into a shallow dish or shallow bowl.

3. In a separate bowl, fill with water about 2 inches deep.

4. Take each marshmallow by the pick and dip all the way into the water

5. Lightly blot marshmallow on a paper towel to get the excess drippy water off.

6. Roll in the Jell-O powder mix – set aside and REPEAT with the flavors of choice.

7. Refrigerate for at least an hour then enjoy!

CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1. Pantry container

4. “By yesterday!”

8. Kind of sax

12. “I see!”

13. Partake at a feast

14. Combine, as resources

15. Anti-prohibitionist

16. Intensified

DOWN

1. Benchley classic

2. “Could I interrupt?”

3. Figure of interest?

4. Long Island university

5. Bro’s sibling, maybe 6. Mandela’s org. 7. Child’s ammo 8. Certain helicopter 9. Filming locale

18. Common sense?

20. Wine adjective

21. Takes one’s pick

24. More than just ache

28. Pencil filler

32. Capital of France?

33. Flock member

34. Desktop pictures

10. It tests the water

11. Worn out

17. Court call

19. Take a bough?

22. Little spasms

23. Brown ermine

25. Referee’s guideline

26. Administered with a spoon, say

27. Soul mate

36. Highland boy

37. Non-alkali

39. Ferociously

41. Journalists, collectively

43. Proof goof

44. Club appearance

46. Hunt illegally

50. Praiseworthy

28. Dieter’s measure

29. Heat, at times

30. In the center of

31. A deadly sin

35. Military trench diggers

38. You can count on them

40. Baby syllable

42. Make known

45. Golden ___ Bridge

55. Pride partner

56. Debatable, as a point

57. Grandstand section

58. Matterhorn, for one 59. Chapel fixtures

60. Many millennia

61. Abbr. on a road map

47. A bit cracked

48. Revolver innovator

49. Hoopla

50. Band aid

51. Forest female

52. Do some yard work

53. Life story, in brief

54. Novelist Deighton

Exquisite ELEGANCE

ACORN INSPECTIONS

Writer / Kristi Sellers

In the often fast-paced world of real estate, peace of mind can sometimes feel like a luxury. But in Indiana, one company is quietly redefining that experience, bringing clarity, confidence and care to every step of the property journey. Acorn Inspections is more than a service; it’s a family-driven philosophy rooted in trust and the belief that every client deserves to feel secure in their investment.

Founded in 2017, Acorn Inspections was born out of a simple but powerful realization that too many people were walking away from inspections feeling uncertain rather than confident. Owner Josh Rizek saw an opportunity to change that narrative. With a background that spans technical training, quality control and

OFFERING DRONE INSPECTIONS

hands-on property management, he built a company that treats every inspection the way it should be.

At its core, Acorn Inspections operates like a family business because it is one. That mindset shapes every interaction, from the first phone call to the final report. Clients are welcomed with the same care and attention Josh would give his own family.

Customers have the opportunity to work with Josh directly.

“When a client calls with questions about inspections or their specific inspection, they speak directly with me, the owner and inspector. There’s no need to go through someone unfamiliar with the work or wait around for a callback,” he says.

What sets Acorn apart is its meticulous attention to detail. Whether inspecting a residential home or a large commercial

property, the process is comprehensive. Every component is carefully evaluated to uncover both visible issues and hidden concerns. The goal isn’t simply to identify problems, but to provide clients with a clear, understandable picture of what may be ahead.

For homeowners, this means stepping into a new chapter with confidence. For sellers, it offers transparency that builds trust. And for investors and business owners, it provides the critical insight needed to protect long-term value. In each case, the inspection becomes less about uncertainty and more about informed decision-making.

That commitment to clarity is backed by professional excellence. Acorn Inspections adheres to nationally recognized standards and holds certifications that reflect a dedication to ongoing education and industry best practices. It’s a level of expertise that ensures every inspection meets not only expectations, but a higher standard of care.

According to Josh, “Residential and commercial inspections are important because they help people make informed, safe and financially sound decisions about properties. While they share similar goals, their importance shows up in a few key ways: safety and health, financial protection, maintenance planning, liability,

business continuity and peace of mind.”

Yet beyond the technical expertise, there’s a human element that defines the experience at Acorn Inspections. Questions are welcomed. Details are explained, and no concern is too small to address. In an industry that can sometimes feel transactional, this level of personal connection stands out.

There’s also a forward-thinking aspect to the company’s work.

Inspections aren’t just about the present moment. They’re also about the future. By identifying potential issues early, clients can plan for maintenance, avoid costly surprises and make decisions that align with their long-term goals. It’s a proactive approach that transforms inspections into a valuable tool for both protection and planning.

In many ways, the name “Acorn” feels especially fitting. Just as a small acorn holds the potential for something strong and enduring, each inspection lays the foundation for a secure and confident future. It’s a reminder that even the smallest details can have a lasting impact.

For those navigating the complexities of buying, selling or investing in property, the right inspection partner can make all the difference. With its blend of technical expertise, personal care and unwavering

attention to detail, Acorn Inspections offers more than just a service. It offers reassurance.

In a world where certainty can be hard to find, that kind of reassurance is something truly worth investing in.

If you are interested in the services Acorn Inspections provides, call 574-933-4238 or visit acorninspect.com for residential and commercial inspections or pickacorn.com for commercial only.

When he’s not working, you can find Josh spending time with his family at a national park, camping, or participating in other outdoor activities.

A FINISH THAT LASTS

THE CARE BEHIND LUMBER COATING SPECIALTIES

Writer / Amy Beaucham

A freshly stained fence, a beautifully finished pavilion, or a newly painted exterior can change the whole feeling of a property. Wood that may have looked tired or unfinished can suddenly take on a warm, polished and well-cared-for appearance. Those visible changes are part of what Jason Miller enjoys most about his work through Lumber Coating Specialties.

Based in Millersburg, Indiana, Lumber Coating Specialties provides staining, finishing and painting services for homeowners and builders in the surrounding area. The business is especially known for exterior work such as pavilions, fences and timber-frame structures, while also offering interior painting, particularly for new construction. Miller’s approach is careful, personal and shaped by years of practical experience.

The business came about in a natural way. Miller says he had been buying stain from his wife’s uncle, who needed someone to go out on the road and handle staining work.

“That’s how it started,” Miller says.

At first, the work was part time and done after his shifts at the RV factory. He would come home from work, head out to job sites and build the business one project at a time. In those early days, word began to spread locally, and customers who had heard about his work would reach out and arrange to meet with him. There were times when someone would already be waiting for him when he arrived home, ready to talk through a project or get an estimate. Over time, the work

increased steadily, and so did his experience and confidence.

Now in its fifth year on the road, Lumber Coating Specialties has grown gradually, allowing Miller to strengthen his skills and build the business at a steady, manageable pace. That kind of growth has given him the opportunity to improve with each project and remain focused on quality.

That background in craftsmanship began years earlier. Miller grew up in his father’s cabinet shop, where he learned about wood, detail and the value of doing a job carefully. While that work was centered more on interior pieces, it gave him a strong foundation that still shows up in the way he approaches projects today.

A large share of his work now involves timber-frame structures and fencing. Those kinds of jobs require more than simply applying a finish and moving on. Indiana weather can be hard on exterior wood, so Miller pays close attention to preparation, moisture conditions, cleanliness and application technique before stain or paint ever goes on the surface.

“The product and the application are both important,” he says. “The wood has to be clean, and the condition has to be right so it works the way it should.”

• Any and All Trailers and Campers / RV’s Serviced and Repaired Here

• Tire Service(repair or replace) • Axles, Bearings & Brakes

• Lights / Wiring

• Upgrade and Remodel

• Formerly known as Pierceton Peddler

Miller prefers natural, water-based products from a Pennsylvania company. He appreciates both their performance and the fact that they are more pleasant to work with than harsher materials.

“It’s very environmentally friendly and human-friendly,” he says. “And if it’s applied correctly, it competes with the best.”

The brand’s name is Natural Kote.

Proper application is a major part of the final result, and it is also where his experience becomes especially evident. One of the techniques he relies on is back-brushing, a process that helps the stain penetrate the wood more evenly after it is sprayed on.

“That’s probably my secret weapon,” Miller says.

He explains that homeowners who attempt staining projects themselves sometimes miss important steps. They may apply the product too lightly or not work it into the wood the way it should be. Miller uses a similar principle with interior painting, where back-rolling helps create a more even and consistent appearance after spraying.

His process begins with an estimate and a visit to the site. From there, he works to make sure the customer has a clear understanding of the project, the available options and what to expect. He values communication and takes time to answer questions so that everything feels straightforward from the start. Preparation is an important part of every job, and that often includes careful masking and protecting surrounding areas so that only the intended surfaces are affected.

Miller takes a similar approach when helping people choose colors and finishes. He brings wood samples directly to the site and prefers to offer

INTERIOR PAINTING

options rather than steer decisions.

“I like to give them all the options I can,” Miller says. “That way they can make their own decisions without pressure.”

That approach reflects how he runs his business overall. Miller is not focused on pushing people into decisions or comparing his work to others. He prefers to let the finished result speak for itself while building genuine connections along the way.

That combination of quality and personal connection is something customers seem to notice. Miller says he often hears that a completed project looks even better than expected. For him, one of the most rewarding parts of the job is watching a customer step back and take in the finished result.

“I like when the customer comes out and looks at it,” he says. “Seeing their satisfaction, that’s the most important thing.”

One project that still stands out in his mind involved a multistory building painted in a blend of blue shades fading into white to resemble the sky. Later, a mural was added by a local artist to the building, giving the project an additional layer of creativity and visual interest.

Looking ahead, Miller is open to taking on larger projects and adding

Metal Roofing. Peace of Mind.

help when needed. At the same time, he is intentional about keeping the business at a size that allows him to maintain the level of quality he values.

When he is not working, Miller enjoys spending time with his family, often around a campfire during the summer months. That same appreciation for simple, meaningful moments carries into his work.

Lumber Coating Specialties continues to grow through careful craftsmanship, steady progress and a commitment to leaving each project better than it was before.

Lumber Coating Specialties is located at 9890 W. 500 S. In Millersburg. You can give them a call at 260-253-4554.

Master Key Sales

UNLOCK THE NATURAL POTENTIAL

13468 ST. RD. 4 GOSHEN, IN 46528 PH. 574-536-9400 FAX: 574-336-3445

• WEEKLY DELIVERY

• UPS SHIPPING

• HEALTHY PRODUCTS FOR BOTH HUMANS AND ANIMALS.

• NON GMO & NATURAL PRODUCTS.

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• SHAVINGS & BEDDING

• THE AREA’S ONLY ONE STOP SHOP OFFERING EVERYTHING A TO Z OF EQUINE REPRODUCTION EQUIPMENT.

POWERING YOUR POTENTIAL

MASTER KEY SALES OFFERS ALLNATURAL, HEALTHY PRODUCTS

Writer / Ashley Watters

Ernie Yoder has often wondered what the key is to unlocking our potential. A former worker in the RV industry, Yoder enjoyed taking side jobs in the equine industry, supporting small-scale sales and equine reproduction in his spare time. While caring for a horse at his home, Yoder noticed one malnourished, unhealthy horse that was not thriving, leading him to investigate the horse’s diet. After some trial and error, he found that an all-natural, non-GMO diet was the trick to transitioning the horse from hurting to healthy and he decided to offer the same options to his community by opening the doors to Master Key Sales.

Master Key Sales offers all-natural, organic products to help keep you, your horse and your dog healthy. Yoder believes that not all nutrition is

created equal and that the pathway to good health starts with feeding ourselves and our animals only the best in nutrition. The store carries ten non-GMO, organic products from leading companies.

When Covid hit, Yoder was lucky enough to serve as Barn Health Manager for Pleasant Ridge Equine where he continued to research the benefits of a better dietary approach.

“I changed my approach to feeding horses and myself. Although many think corn is the culprit, it’s actually more about clean ingredients. I

now focus on the non-GMO and organic side of things and the horses I’ve cared for and myself are so much healthier,” says Yoder.

As his knowledge grew, so did his business and it was soon time to move to a bigger space. He moved in to a property on Pleasant Ridge Equine and has been continuing his journey to better health for himself and others.

Yoder recently added reproduction equipment and products, now accounting for a large portion of his business. He ships products near and far and feels blessed to speak with customers, many who have become friends, on a regular basis, all while supporting their personal and equine health.

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“It’s been a wonderful journey over the last seven years, making new friends and helping to support our community. My family and I are grateful to be a trusted business and we appreciate their confidence in us,” says Yoder.

Master Key Sales now offers lifetime products and gifts alongside their nutrition options. He hopes to be a destination for anyone in his community looking to improve their health.

A family-owned business, Yoder enjoys supporting his community while working alongside his wife and children, all of whom assist in the store and help with deliveries. You will often see his son Arlin making free local deliveries in and around town and his daughter Maria helping in the store.

“I’m excited to see where the future takes us and blessed to be able to help out my community,” says Yoder.

True to their slogan, Yoder and his family hope their products will help you “unlock your natural potential with Master Key Sales.”

With questions or orders, call Master Key Sales at 574-536-9400 or stop in to their location at 13468 St. Rd 4 in Goshen during their business hours.

MEANINGFUL JOURNEYS

DASH GETAWAYS TRAVEL BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER THROUGH CURATED ADVENTURES & SHARED EXPERIENCES

Writer / Amy Beaucham Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

For some, a getaway is a spontaneous afternoon that turns into an unexpected memory. For others, it is finally standing in a place they have pictured for years — a skyline, a coastline, a historic landmark brought to life. For many, it becomes something even more meaningful: connection, shared laughter, and the comfort of knowing someone has thoughtfully prepared the way so they can simply be present.

That is the space Dash Getaways Travel was created to fill.

Founded by Plymouth resident Lana Ball, Dash Getaways plans and hosts experiences that range from motorcoach day trips to multi-day adventures across the United States and abroad — Egypt, New Orleans, Mount Rushmore, haunted Kentucky towns and Broadway excursions. Carefully curated itineraries are built not just around

destinations, but around how those destinations bring people together.

“This business has always been about relationships,” Ball says. “I truly enjoy traveling with our Dashers and experiencing those trips alongside them.”

For Ball, that word carries layered meaning. She values knowing her travelers and understanding their interests, comfort levels and hopes for a trip. Many stop by the storefront simply to talk through ideas before ever booking, and that trust matters deeply to her. Those relationships continue once the journey begins. Thoughtfully designed group travel has a way of dissolving unfamiliarity as conversations begin on the motorcoach, meals are shared and stories surface. By the end of the trip, strangers often feel like longtime friends, and Ball witnesses that quiet magic of connection forming in real time.

Her path to entrepreneurship was steady and deeply rooted in family influence. Ball grew up in Bourbon, Indiana, watching her father build Ball Auction and Realty into a respected and thriving business serving the surrounding communities. The work ethic, consistency and community presence she witnessed there left a lasting imprint.

Travel was also part of her upbringing. Family trips were not extravagant, but they were intentional. Experiences were valued, and time together mattered. Those early memories shaped how she now views exploration, not as a luxury, but as something formative.

“I think I always knew somewhere down the line I was going to start a business,” she says. “I just didn’t know the timing.”

After earning her degree in retail management from Purdue University and

spending years immersed in the family business — particularly during a season when her mother’s health required greater involvement — Ball began sensing that a new chapter was forming. She carried with her a retail background, an eye for quality and a lifelong love of travel. When those elements aligned, Dash Getaways Travel was born.

The company officially launched in late 2024, and the early months required courage and conviction.

“I wasn’t even sure if five people would sign up,” Ball admits. “In the beginning I would work day after day with very little rest. I’d get home completely exhausted, but there was always that voice inside telling me to keep going. I knew I was building something with purpose.”

That purpose grew from a realization she experienced during the years following the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I truly felt like people weren’t getting back out and socializing the way we once did before COVID,” she explains. “I was concerned about our community, about people’s mental health and the importance of connection. One of the best things you can do for yourself is travel. I know how happy it makes me.”

That realization helped spark the idea for Dash Getaways.

“This company really isn’t about me,” Ball says. “It’s about connection, community, memories and friendships. I can’t tell you how many people have thanked me for starting it, and that means the world to me. I’m grateful for every single traveler who chooses to come along with us, and my hope is that Dash Getaways truly makes a difference in their lives.”

Trust is everything in travel. People are

handing over their time, their money and often long-held dreams. Ball chose to establish a visible storefront where travelers could walk in, ask questions and plan their journeys face to face, creating a welcoming place where people can begin imagining their next adventure.

That presence is about to expand.

Dash Getaways Travel will soon move to a new location at 201 Water St. in downtown Plymouth. After a year of remarkable growth, the company simply outgrew its original space. The new shop will be four times larger, allowing for expanded travel services and a broader retail experience for visitors.

“We are incredibly excited about the move,” Ball says. “Being downtown will allow for more walk-in visitors and give travelers an inviting place to stop in, browse and start dreaming about their next adventure.”

The shop is more than a place to book a trip. It also carries a curated selection of travel essentials, accessories and gifts, all with a travel theme.

“Every item in our shop is something I personally use or would confidently pack in my own suitcase,” Ball says. “From practical travel gear to fun gifts that inspire wanderlust, our goal is to help people travel smarter, travel easier and get excited about where they’re going next.”

The growth has been remarkable. Travelers now come from 19 counties across Indiana and from nine different states.

“I’m truly grateful for each traveler who chooses to travel with us,” Ball says.

Planning a trip under the Dash Getaways umbrella is far more involved than simply reserving transportation and hotel rooms. Ball spends significant time researching destinations, studying logistics and often visiting locations herself before offering them to travelers.

While she sometimes partners with companies such as Diamond Tours for

transportation and foundational tour structure, Ball is known for refining and elevating those itineraries by adding thoughtful pacing, immersive experiences and small details that transform a trip into something memorable.

Gratuities are always included, so travelers never feel uncertain about expectations. On multi-day motorcoach journeys, guests receive Dash Getaways luggage tags, neoprene luggage handle wraps and reusable Dash Getaways water bottles that are refilled throughout the trip. Complimentary snacks are also provided along the way.

“These little touches may seem simple,” Ball says, “but they make a big difference in how relaxed and cared for people feel while they’re traveling.”

Ball also works to dispel a common misconception about group travel. Many people assume it means rigid schedules and little personal freedom, but she explains that while there is structure, travelers still have flexibility.

“There is flexibility built in,” she says. “We want people to enjoy the experience, not feel restricted by it.”

Her own travel experiences continue to shape that philosophy. Ball has traveled solo across six continents, and one of her earliest transformative moments occurred

in Scotland when she stood beneath a full moon in the Highlands and realized the same moon was shining over her family back home. In that moment, the world suddenly felt both vast and intimately connected.

If Scotland opened her eyes to the vastness of the world, Egypt settled deeply into her heart.

After years of watching documentaries about the pyramids with her mother, Ball eventually stood before them herself.

“Standing in front of the pyramids for the first time, I actually had tears in my eyes,” she says. “You can’t fully understand it until you’re there.”

She has now spent a total of eight weeks

in Egypt, building relationships with Egyptologists and local partners. That investment allows her to offer travelers far more than a surface-level tour.

“For me, it’s not just about visiting Egypt. It’s about truly experiencing it.”

Upcoming international itineraries include Egypt in November 2026 and Australia in June 2027, marking Ball’s seventh continent.

Ball has also begun developing several trips connected to the celebration of America’s 250th birthday, experiences that combine history, culture and uniquely American destinations.

Planned trips include Washington, D.C., a Broadway excursion to see Hamilton in Chicago, a Famous Hoosiers heritage tour, a New York City experience and even a classic American pastime — watching the Chicago Cubs face the St. Louis Cardinals at Wrigley Field.

She has also worked with Diamond Tours to create a custom “America 250” journey that highlights lesser-known historic sites and fascinating stories from America’s past.

At its heart, however, Dash Getaways is about more than destinations, and Ball often reflects on the friendships formed through travel. One story in particular stands out. A 92-year-old traveler joined a tour and formed friendships with women decades younger. Today, they visit one another’s homes and continue planning future adventures together.

“Had it not been for that trip, they may have never crossed paths,” Ball says. “That truly makes my heart smile.”

Though she grew up in Bourbon, Ball has lived in Plymouth for many years and considers it her home. Her civic involvement further anchors the business locally.“It’s very important to me that Dash

Getaways is rooted in Plymouth,” she says. “This is home.”

The company’s name reflects her larger philosophy. Inspired by the poem The Dash, which reflects on the small line between birth and death and how we choose to fill it, Ball selected a name that would serve as a daily reminder.

“The dash represents the time between when we’re born and when we leave this world and how we choose to spend that time,” she explains.

She believes travel helps people make the most of that time.

“Your Dash should include the people, experiences and moments that truly make you happy,” she says.

Inside the storefront, visitors may also meet Ollie the otter, the company’s cheerful mascot — a playful reflection

of Ball’s joyful approach to travel and adventure.

When asked what continues to motivate her, Ball does not hesitate.

“I find great joy and happiness in my calling each and every day,” she says.

Because in the end, the dash is simply the space we are given, and what fills it — shared meals, laughter, discovery and connection — becomes the story we carry forward. Dash Getaways is not simply about going somewhere, but about going together and coming home changed.

Dash Getaways Travel is located at 201 Water St., Plymouth, Indiana 46563 You can give them a call at 574-800-9202 or visit them online at dashgetawaystravel. com, Facebook - dashgetawaystravel, and Instagram - @dashgetawaystravel.

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•

FORGED TO LAST

D.A. HOCHSTETLER CONTINUES A LEGACY OF INNOVATION & STRENGTH

Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger Photographer / Kari Lipscomb

There was once a time when Dan Hochstetler’s days were spent working on trades and skills reflecting a simpler time. Hochstetler was a man of expertise in the community of Topeka, someone the neighbors could turn to when they needed repairs to their buggies, or perhaps they were seeking some type of upholstery work.

It wasn’t long until Hochstetler developed a reputation as someone who could accept a challenge, someone who could take machinery deemed unfixable and find a way to make it run once more. From the start, Hochstetler became renowned as a craftsman who could capture a solution and make it real.

That was 76 years ago. All these many

years, and four generations, later, these are the principles that continue to define D.A. Hochstetler and Sons. It’s where inspiration and ingenuity come together, with a reputation as solid as the projects they create.

Situated in the heart of LaGrange County, D.A. Hochstetler and Sons is now a leading manufacturer of farm and

industrial parts, servicing clients across America. They have expanded their services exponentially, including their Reliable line of products, which they call “unapologetically overbuilt.” The Reliable name is emblazoned on one of their most successful items, the Driveway Finisher Grader. D.A. Hochstetler and Sons also produces Premier Foundation Pilings and Stack Pro Cantilever Racking.

The Reliable brand also encompasses several attachments for the Driveway Finisher Grader, featuring varying sizes to take on smaller to more expansive driveway gravel leveling. There are also numerous designs and dimensions for skid-steer buckets and forks, crafted to carry and move anything from the smallest of piles to the most cumbersome of debris. Ensuring that these customized parts are of the highest quality is a goal that leads D.A. Hochstetler and Sons to pledge, “We don’t cut corners, we reinforce them.”

The Stack Pro systems of shelving units are also a top seller for the business, utilizing optimum storage space by installing well-built, adjustable shelves that free up valuable floor space. These units have been designed to accommodate lumber yards, industrial workshops and manufacturers.

Arlin Hochstetler is now the current steward of the business that has remained in the family fold since 1950. His affable presence and jovial attitude are well earned, as he carries the enterprise into a new era. He is excited for many new developments and changes in 2026, changes that will heighten the customer experience and elevate D.A. Hochstetler and Sons to an even greater customer base.

As their website explains, “Though the products have changed, our purpose hasn’t. We exist to provide solutions. Whether for a farmer in the field, a

contractor on the job, or a manufacturer to organize their shop, our goal is to make equipment that works as hard as the people who use it.”

“And we’re just getting started. With a growing network of dealers, national trade show presence and new product launches on the horizon, D.A. Hochstetler and Sons is writing the next chapter of its legacy. A chapter where Reliable and Stack Pro stand as trusted names across America — built on honesty, relationships and the same overbuilt mindset that has guided us since 1950.”

D.A. Hochstetler and Sons is located at 4165 S. 500 W. in rural Topeka. Arlin Hochstetler can be reached by phone at 260-593-0445, ext. 2. To connect via email, write to info@dahochstetler. com or visit their website, dahochstetler. com, which includes product photos and testimonials.

Avian Influenza: Staying Safe

Avian influenza, known as bird flu, is a virus that can infect birds, other animals, and sometimes humans. The risk of humans becoming infected with avian influenza is low. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Indiana State Board of Animal Health (BOAH) and the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) are working together to monitor for avian influenza and the overall risk to the public.

How Avian Influenza Spreads

People can become infected when the avian influenza virus is inhaled or gets into a person’s eyes, nose or mouth. People who have close contact with sick birds have the highest risk of becoming infected with an avian influenza virus.

Steps to Protect Yourself:

• Avoid Contact with Wild Birds

·Do not touch sick or dead waterfowl

·Observe wild birds and other animals from a distance. Avoid touching or feeding wild birds, even if they don’t look sick

·Avoid coming into contact with bird droppings or surfaces that may contain bird droppings

·If you keep birdfeeders and birdbaths on your property, clean them regularly with a 10% bleach and hot water solution, rinse thoroughly, and then allow them to completely dry before refilling. Clean up birdseed that has fallen below birdfeeders.

·Do not feed wild birds, especially waterfowl, near domestic flocks. If you come in contact with any bird that appears unhealthy, wash your hands with soap and water and change clothing and shoes before coming in contact with a domestic flock or captive birds.

• Backyard Flock Guidance

·Hobby poultry owners are encouraged to be aware of the signs of avian influenza and report illness and/or death to the USDA Healthy Birds Hotline: 866-536-7593. Callers will be routed to a state or federal veterinarian in Indiana for a case assessment. Dead birds should be double-bagged and refrigerated for possible testing. Keep dedicated boots/ footwear in the chicken coop and don't wear them other places.

• Report Sick or Dead Birds

·Report any cases of sick or dead wild birds to the DNR at on.in.gov/avian-flu.

• Practice Good Hygiene

·Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after any contact with birds or their droppings

·Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands

·If wild birds must be handled, protective equipment such as safety goggles, disposable gloves, and an N95 mask should be worn

• Keep Pets Away

·Keep domestic animals, especially poultry and cats, away from wild birds and areas where wild birds congregate

• Avian influenza does not present a food safety risk

·Cooked poultry and eggs and pasteurized dairy products are safe to eat. Pasteurization and cooking kills avian flu viruses.

If You Develop Symptoms:

If you experience u-like symptoms, such as fever, chills, cough, sore throat, or conjunctivitis after handling birds, contact your healthcare provider for guidance and inform them about your contact with birds.

Online Resources:

• Indiana Department of Health - Avian Influenza: https://www.in.gov/health/idepd/respiratory-disease/influen za/avian-influenza/#How_are_avian_influenza_viruses_spread_

• DNR - Avian Flu (Bird Flu): https://www.in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife/wildlife-resources/wildlife-diseases-in-indiana/avian-flu-bird-flu/

• Updates are available from BOAH at: https://www.in.gov/boah/species-information/avianbirds/highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza/

SPRING SCOOPS

COWLICKS ICE CREAM SHOPPE WELCOMES GUESTS FOR SEASON THREE

Writer / Ashley Watters

stop by their quaint shop for something

Vernon and Edith Bontrager didn’t originally set out to open an ice cream store. Regardless, an opportunity presented itself when Edith’s former employer put her ice cream store up for sale. She had always enjoyed the work and decided it was time for her family to make the jump to owning their own store. Formerly known as Brenda’s Ice Cream, Cowlicks officially opened in the spring of 2024. Moving into its third season in 2026, Edith and Vernon are excited to see what the spring and summer will bring.

“We live on a small farm near the store so it’s an ideal location. We were ready for a change and thought it might be the perfect time for that. I really enjoyed working with Brenda and we just felt it was the right time, so we made the purchase,” Edith says.

Offering more than 30 hand-dipped ice cream flavors, soft serve, milkshakes, parfaits, floats, whirlwinds, sundae options and hot food items, Cowlicks Ice Cream Shoppe is an easy jaunt from the neighboring campgrounds and the perfect destination for summer fun. In particular, the rum black cherry flavor and assortment of subs and wraps, along with the hot pretzels, are customer favorites that will be gracing the menu.

This new season, Edith and Vernon are focusing on adding outdoor seating so customers can enjoy a sunny afternoon treat under the covering of a new pavilion. The staff focuses on delivering food and ice cream quickly and provides a relaxing setting for a scenic family outing.

“We really hope to see families and the community come out when we open for the season. We’re working to make our outdoor area inviting for customers. If

you’re returning to visit us, we hope you’ll enjoy our upgrades,” Edith says.

For those who are coming back, Cowlicks Ice Cream Shoppe will also be adding new, smaller sizes to its menu to accommodate more requests. A familyowned business, Cowlicks Ice Cream Shoppe is frequently staffed by Edith, her husband Vernon and their four sons.

Cowlicks Ice Cream Shoppe will be open from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with new hours of noon to 8 p.m. starting in September.

“We hope families come out to see what we have to offer and find a new favorite at Cowlicks Ice Cream Shoppe. Come check out our cozy place and find your next new flavor,” Edith says.

Located at 1405 W. 700 S., Cowlicks Ice Cream Shoppe hopes you’ll stop by for a treat.

NEWS FLASH!

WELCOME TO THE FARMSTAND

LOCAL STAND SERVES NEIGHBORS IN RURAL MILLERSBURG

Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger

Simplicity best describes the way of things in rural Millersburg. The land winds long toward the horizon, and family farmsteads are seamlessly connected along picturesque, gentle hills.

This is a place where folks look out for one another. If ever there is a need, it’s assured that someone will heed the call to help their neighbors.

And that’s how The Farmstand was created. Owned and operated by the husband-and-wife team of Jerry and Yvonne Lambright, their modest early mission to provide for others

rapidly grew into a successful rural enterprise.

The inspiration for The Farmstand began when Jerry Lambright became aware of an egg shortage in the area. Since the Lambrights own an extensive number of well-tended chickens, they knew that they were in a fortunate situation to be able to share their egg supply with others.

Jerry, who was raised on a family farm just down the road from his current farm, knows his neighbors well and was happy to come forward and lend a hand.

That was an endeavor that began in February 2025. By summertime, they had a full-fledged business up and running. Presently tucked away at the end of a country lane, The Farmstand now sells eggs raised directly on the Lambright farm, graded by Yvonne and gathered by Jerry.

The Farmstand also features honey that is raw and unfiltered, in sizes ranging from 0.2 ounces up to 5 gallons. They also sell maple syrup from Farmer Dan, as he’s known, who has a maple

syrup production facility located in White Pigeon, Michigan. Maple syrup season is in its prime this time of year and can be found at The Farmstand in sizes from 8 ounces to 1 gallon. Beef jerky, Mud Valley tea and lemonade, even postage stamps, can all be found at The Farmstand as well, along with other snack items and household sundries.

Lambright’s eggs are of the brown variety, non-GMO, and he is currently working to have them certified pasture-raised organic.

As springtime settles in, the Lambrights hope to see an uptick in visitors. They stay open six days a week, typically from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Guests are welcome to use the self-serve option if the family is not home. The only day that The Farmstand is closed to customers is Sunday.

The Farmstand is located at 5580 S. 1050 W. in Millersburg, Indiana. They can be reached by phone at 260-593-3044.

NANO APPLICATIONS LEADS TO MACRO SAVINGS

NANO ROOF MICHIANA FOCUSES ON PREVENTION TO EXTEND ROOF LIFE

Writer / Ashley Watters

Nano Roof Michiana focuses on prevention over repair to protect the life of your home.

Homeownership is a joy that comes with independence, family and stability, but occasionally it also comes with challenges and expensive updates. Maintenance costs and unexpected repairs can be extremely burdensome, especially with rising costs. Ben Yoder wanted to make things just a little easier on homeowners, and that’s just what he does at NANOROOF Michiana.

As the owner of a family-owned mold remediation business, Yoder wasn’t a newcomer to home maintenance and all the costs it can entail. As more and more requests for external mold treatments came pouring in, Yoder realized it might be time to investigate a better way to maintain homes without the high price tag. His research led him to a better approach for roof

maintenance, and ultimately, a new business venture.

“We offer a new option for homeowners. No longer do they have to sit there and wait for their roof to deteriorate and be left with a hefty roof replacement bill. Shingle roof preservation is now the new way to go, even though it’s been around for 13 years and was researched decades before that. It is gaining fast traction since inflation has left everyone wondering how they’ll pay for expensive home repairs and roof replacements, let alone all the other bills,” Yoder says.

NANOROOF Michiana offers prevention methods against home deterioration, a proactive approach over the traditional method of “maintain and repair.” They specialize in protective NANOROOF coatings to protect against weather damage and premature wear.

The process begins with a free roof inspection to ascertain if your home qualifies for protective measures. Yoder mentions that 98% of homes qualify, so he encourages homeowners to consider NANOROOF technology even if they think their roof is too far gone. This cutting-edge approach can apply to roofs with up to 50% granule loss, with no limitations for age.

If you qualify, NANOROOF Michiana will add you to their limited seasonal schedule. Weather factors such as humidity and

wind can impact the application process, so Yoder encourages people to sign up sooner rather than later. The team will initially conduct a general cleaning to clear away any shrubbery or debris from your roof. A soft wash comes next to remove moss, algae, mold and other stubborn substances in preparation for the protective membrane and in an effort to retain remaining granules. Finally, the protective nano preservation membrane is applied to ensure the longevity of your existing roof.

“We use a nano-enhanced elastomeric polymer that’s siliconebased to fully penetrate the shingle and make a mechanical and chemical bond that others aren’t able to achieve. This strengthens and makes the shingle more durable than before, and our product is re-coatable to basically keep your roof lasting a lifetime. This product can save the homeowner, on an average roof, 70-80% of what a new roof replacement would cost them!” Yoder says.

Treated roofs are protected against UV and sun damage, fading color, mold and algae growth, thermal shock due to extreme temperature changes, and hail and wind damage. A courtesy follow-up is conducted one year after application, with package options available for annual checkups.

“We want to help the community save money, but also save landfills from the 12+ million tons of shingles that go to waste

every year. Eighty-five percent of roofs are prematurely replaced every year because of overzealous roofers and homeowners who just don’t know about this option,” Yoder says.

NANOROOF Michiana can help elongate the life of other areas around your home as well. The team offers a hydrophobic sealant for concrete and wood areas surrounding your home to prevent breakage and deterioration of areas such as decks, fences, pergolas, driveways, sidewalks, basements, pool areas, garages and more.

Protect what you have and forgo expensive, messy and invasive home repairs. To learn more about NANOROOF Michiana, go to nanoroofmichiana.com.

• Homemade potato salad & pasta salad

• Homemade soups

• Fresh made pies daily

• Ice cream

SUNNYBROOK

Shipshewana/ LaGrange County

1-2

Mayfest kicks off the spring season in Shipshewana. Enjoy some old-fashioned hometown fun with bands and choir concerts, kid’s activities, live entertainment, softball tournament, food trucks, benefit breakfast, and so much more!

Parade is Saturday morning at 10 a.m.

8-9

LaGrange Town Wide Garage Sales.

25-27

Memorial Day Flea Market at Shipshewana Trading Place. The Flea Market is open 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. each day.

Elkhart County

2

3 – 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. – Five Medals, a premier outdoor living history event and reenactment hosting Colonial Era lifeways demonstrations, entertainment, battle reenactment, and more. Located at The Farm at Amish Acres 1600 W Market St, Nappanee.

9

9 a.m. – 1 p.m. – Plant Sale with Four Winds Garden Club at Wellfield Botanic Garden. Shop various plants and botanical vendors for the perfect additions to your home, garden, or gifts. Admission to the plant sale is free. Admission to the Gardens is $10, or free with a $25 purchase at the plant sale.

9-10

Paws for a Cause at Dogapalooza at Ox Bow Park. Bring your

family, friends, and four-legged sidekick for a morning packed with pawsome activities including a 5K run and 1-mile walk. Enjoy dog themed vendors and community fun. 23033 Co. Rd. 45, Goshen.

Kosciusko County

2

10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. – Workshop: Porch Gardening at the Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams. This workshop will focus on growing vegetables, flowers, and pollinator-friendly plants in various containers that are perfect for small spaces. This event is free, but you must register.

23

10 a.m. – 3 p.m. – Kosciusko Masonic Lodge 418’s 6th Annual Car Show during Milford Lions Festival.

29-31

Mentone Egg Festival. Enjoy entertainment, games, food, kids play area, car, truck, motorcycle, and tractor show. Flea market and craft vendors.

Noble County

9-10

Nature Fest is a free and fun-filled festival with various family and science activities at Merry Lea.

10

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. – Kite Day. Build a kite from scratch, or bring your own. All ages are welcome, $2 for anyone over 13 years old. Prizes are awarded for several different categories of kites.

28

5:30 – 7:30 p.m. - Cromwell’s Summer Kickoff Party in the Cromwell Park.

St Joseph County

5 & 13

4 – 5 p.m. – Seeds & Sunlight – STEAM Lab. Learn how plants use photosynthesis to make their own food and how a seed sprouts and develops. Take your own seeds home to watch them grow. Ages 8-12 in the Silo Room of the Francis Branch of the St. Joseph County Public Library.

5

4:30 – 5:30 p.m. – Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Tournament. Put your gaming skills to the test as your battle others in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Food and drinks provided while supplies last in the Teem Room of the Main Library of the St. Joseph County Public Library.

10

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. – Wild About Mom Mother’s Day Brunch at the Potawatomi Zoo. Open house-style brunch invites families to enjoy a memorable morning at the zoo featuring a brunch, live music, animal encounters, and special experiences just for mom.

16

1 p.m. – 2 p.m. – Let’s Ferment…. Hot Sauce! Dive into the fermentation process and learn the basics of bringing pepper varieties in combination with other herbs and spices. Participants will leave with their own hot sauce masterpiece underway! In the Community Learning Center – Beutter-Kernan Hall of the Main SJCPL Library. This event is free, but registration is required.

18

4:30 – 5:30 p.m. – Lego Builder Challenge at the Story House in the Main SJCPL Library. Test your building and creativity skills in four timed challenges with a theme, then share your creations. Ages 6-11.