Nappanee Couple Focus on People First at JR Firearms
University of Notre Dame’s Rise From Wilderness to WorldRenowned Legacy
tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599
JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011
Tel:
8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday
We will be selling South Bend Chocolates for all your Christmas cravings!
jewelry, collectibles, jams,
Bend Chocolates, jellies,
crafted wreaths, soaps and
some downright ugly stuff.
FRESH FINISH
CORECLEAN RESTORES FLOORS WITH CARE & COMMITMENT
Writer / Amy Beaucham
There’s a special kind of satisfaction in watching a dull, tired floor turn bright again. That’s the moment Connor Rains loves most. He owns CoreClean Floor Care & Refinishing in Plymouth, where before-andafter results tell the story of careful work, high standards and respect for a customer’s home.
Rains came to floor care from agriculture in
2020 when Lowry’s Carpet Care called him in for an interview. He started as a technician, learned every part of the job and moved into management. After about three years, the previous owner was ready to slow down. That’s when Rains stepped forward.
“CoreClean Floor Care & Refinishing is a company built on hard work, high standards and a deep respect for the people and places we serve,” Rains says.
At this stage, Rains is involved in every job in some capacity, ensuring standards remain consistent. He carries forward the goodwill built by Lowry’s 30-year history while guiding CoreClean along a path focused on trust over size. He would rather be known as the most trusted than the biggest, and his
The rebrand carried local roots forward with fresh energy and a clear promise: do the job right.
practices reflect that choice.
CoreClean serves both residential and commercial clients with a thoughtful menu of services: carpet and upholstery cleaning, tile and grout cleaning, stone and LVT cleaning, area rug cleaning and hardwood floor refinishing. The team also offers deodorizing, pet odor removal and maintenance plans for homes and businesses that want dependable, scheduled care.
Customers often ask what makes professional cleaning different from do-it-yourself methods. CoreClean runs a truck-mounted system that operates around 200 degrees with strong PSI for deep extraction. Rental units simply cannot match that heat or suction, which affects how clean the fibers get and how fast they dry. Rains matches the process to the surface, then chooses safe, effective solutions. He doesn’t buy harsh products. Everything is made in the United States, selected to leave no residue, and he has even toured the manufacturer’s facility to
see
He believes honest guidance is part of great service. Some stains are permanent, even after sanitation and improvement. When that happens, he tests, shows the results and sets clear expectations. For hardwood floors, he looks at the wear layer and grain exposure to decide if a deep clean will suffice or if sanding and refinishing are needed. His goal is to help customers choose the option that truly protects their investment.
Two services are in especially high demand right now: carpet cleaning and hardwood refinishing. The carpet process lifts embedded dirt, oils and allergens that regular vacuuming leaves behind, improving appearance and indoor freshness. For hardwood, a careful refinish brings back richness and depth while sealing the surface for durability. One favorite project involved a four-year-old hardwood floor that had turned cloudy. After refinishing, it looked terrific and completely changed the feel of the room.
CoreClean’s approach is family-rooted and community-minded. Rains and his wife, Samantha, live on a small farm with their children, Wesley and Caroline, where caring for animals and tending the property keep life full. Samantha has supported him from the beginning, often pitching in on jobs when needed. He calls her “a good set of hands,” and says her eye for detail and his parents’ steady example shaped the way he works today.
Community connections extend beyond CoreClean’s customer base. Rains participates in a local business networking group and trades referrals, a practical way to keep resources close to home. It fits his long-term vision for steady, sustainable growth. Rather than chase every new service, he wants to deepen what CoreClean already does best.
Over the next five years, he plans to build a full-time refinishing crew, run two or three cleaning crews and eventually open an
office in Warsaw. Through it all, he keeps the focus where it belongs: results, reliability, communication and care.
Customers notice. Reviewer Bobbie Mike Milliser says, “They did a professional job. They were on time and done quickly.”
That simple summary checks off three boxes most homeowners care about: quality, punctuality and respect for the customer’s day.
The words Rains uses to sum up his standard are plain but powerful: “We do whatever it takes to make sure the customer is satisfied.”
It’s a promise backed by skill, strong equipment and a willing spirit. Floors
come back brighter. Homes feel refreshed. Businesses welcome clients with a clean, confident first step. CoreClean makes that happen one careful job at a time.
CoreClean Floor Care & Refinishing is located at 14515 5th Rd. in Plymouth, IN. For more information, call 574-341-0964 or email connor.rains@yourcoreclean.com.
THE HONOR SYSTEM STILL WORKS
AT VERHAEGHE FARMS, TRUST & TRADITION FUEL A THRIVING FAMILY BUSINESS
An impressive family business with a unique approach to operations stands in the heart of Walkerton. Verhaeghe Farms offers beef, pork and lamb meat straight from their farm. Inside the roadside stand, you’ll also find handmade bakery items, including jams and jellies, as well as tallow-based and natural skin care products.
Whether you’re looking to purchase tonight’s meal or buy meat in bulk, Verhaeghe Farms has you covered.
Inside the roadside-stand cottage are freshly prepared baked goods and selfcare products made with clean, simple ingredients you can feel good about.
One of the unique aspects of this family business is the way it operates. Customers can visit the farmstand at their convenience, pick out the items they desire and leave payment in the designated box. The honor system is alive and well at this family farm’s roadside-stand cottage.
Owned and operated by Dawn and Jason
Verhaeghe, the business is located on their property and run by a mix of their children and their significant others. (The Verhaeghes have four children and three grandchildren.)
The Verhaeghes raise animals on the farm and sell beef portions as a quarter, half or full. Pigs are sold as a half or whole hog. They also sell feeder pigs and butcher hogs. Lamb is sold as a whole. They work with two state-inspected butcher shops for processing to make buying from their
Jason & Dawn Verhaeghe, Cindy Summeier, Raelyne Summeier, Clarie Tanner, Seth Verhaeghe
family farm a pleasant experience.
Currently roaming the farmland are 50 cows, 130 lambs, 45 sows and numerous babies. They farm 250 acres of corn and beans, along with 80 acres of hay, which adds to their product lines—and to the long list of farm work for the family.
Verhaeghe Farms has a long family history in the farming business. The 4-H program played a big role in the family’s life growing up. Today, the family supports 4-H students through their Verhaeghe Farms Open House each March, where they sell sheep and pigs to 4-H kids.
The business is run by family members, all of whom also hold full-time jobs — Jason as a retail salesman at Keystone and Dawn as founder and owner of CleanRite Cleaning Service, which is celebrating 25 years in business serving homes and businesses within a 60-mile radius of Walkerton.
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Kurt Corsbie, DDS Kevin Downey, DDS
Dr. Oriana Corsbie Joining our practice July 2025!
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Hunter and Raelyne live and maintain the Hoosier Homestead Farm in Crumstown, where he manages last year’s heifers and yearlings. Seth and Claire maintain the farm on First Road, with heifers from two years ago. Extra teens help on the farm to ensure everything gets done daily, and friends and family pitch in during busy seasons.
Every member of the staff at Verhaeghe Farms is family. Even the newest members—babies who arrived over the past year—have a place in the business as they accompany their moms at the stand.
“Taking care of these youngest members of our family is our highest priority, so if their moms are contributing to the product lines, the babies are here with them,” Dawn says.
Claire manages the skin care line of products, which are based in beef tallow and other single-ingredient solutions. This mindful mama became a new mom less than a year ago, and she keeps that caring perspective when creating her products. She collects fat from cows and renders it herself to produce tallow and sunscreen. Her face wash contains natural products such as castor oil and essential oils. She is passionate about reaching people who appreciate clean, natural products packaged in amber glass jars — no plastic — which can be returned for refills or recycling.
Raelyne is also a new mom, having welcomed the newest little one this past summer. Baking by her side is her mom Cindy, who is the heart behind the line of fresh baked goods. Some fan favorites
include sweet breads such as pumpkin, apple cinnamon and lemon blueberry. The most requested item is their homemade cinnamon rolls.
Raelyne also makes chocolate-covered pretzels and the snack favorite Chex mix. She cooks with simple ingredients that bring fresher flavors than a boxed cake can deliver, and she welcomes custom orders for holiday dessert pies. Future plans include expanding to farmers markets and community fairs.
With the carefully curated line of products, it’s worth noting that this business has only been running since June of this year. However, they already have a solid system in place. Baking happens several times a week, and it’s “first come, first served” unless you pre-order.
Verhaeghe Farms is located at 69515 Sweetbrier Road in Walkerton and can be reached by calling 574-274-2424.
HOME STARTS HERE
he best furniture stores do more than sell sofas. They help people picture a life at home that feels comfortable, useful, and beautiful. That’s the promise at Plymouth Furniture & Mattress, led by owners Michael Bright and Kaden Rody.
Bright and Rody didn’t set out to own a second store this soon. They had recently opened Wabash Furniture & Mattress when a trusted sales rep shared a tip.
“A guy named Alan Fritz and his sister Marilyn Banfich owned it, and their dad had started the business,” Bright says. “They were wanting an exit strategy. They wanted to retire, and our La-Z-Boy rep came to us and said, ‘They were looking to step back, and we were looking to grow.’”
• Delivery & Set up of Rental
• Tents for any occasion
• Max Size: 60 ft. x 190 ft.
• Tables & Chairs
Writer / Amy Beaucham
Photographer / Tony Straw
Marilyn Banfitch, Owner- Michael Bright, Owner- Kaden Rody, Siara Simon, and George Christ.
Following the purchase, the store formerly known as Banfich Furniture became Plymouth Furniture & Mattress.
Customers who frequented the former store can still find the brands they’ve loved for years, with deeper inventory and an expanded service mindset. Bright puts it plainly: “We’re in it for the long haul … I’m only 37 and Kaden is 21, and we plan to do this till we retire.”
The store layout makes it easy to imagine a finished space. Vignettes are built with tables, lamps, rugs and pillows so you can see how pieces work together. Bring a pillow from home or a fabric swatch. Snap a few photos of your room. The staff encourages it.
Many furniture pieces can be customized, including fabric choices, arm styles, wood finishes, and sizes that fit your real room, not just a showroom. Plymouth Furniture carries lines the region knows and trusts — La-Z-Boy, Ashley, Bernhardt, Archbold VaughanBassett, Liberty, John Thomas, Uttermost, Oriental Weavers, Hunter Douglas, Carole Fabrics, and more.
Mattress shoppers can compare national leaders such as TempurPedic, Stearns & Foster, Sealy, and Serta.
Plymouth Furniture’s secret sauce might be a familiar name. Marilyn Banfich stayed on after the sale to continue the in-home
design services that have helped local families for decades. Bright can’t help but smile when he talks about her. He explains that Marilyn has designed everything from custom bunk beds to full built-ins, noting that “she does everything. She’s got over 40 years of experience.”
When you work with Marilyn, the process is simple but personal. An appointment begins with a modest $200 deposit that goes directly toward your purchase—no extra design fee. She can meet you in the store, trade ideas by email or step into your home to take measurements and see the space firsthand.
From there, she brings in her decades of experience with window
HUGE SAVINGS
treatments, flooring, paint, lighting and the furniture that ties it all together. Customers appreciate her ability to listen closely and turn a wish list into a plan.
If you prefer to shop on your own, that’s welcome too. The floor is set with mix-and-match settings so you can compare a sofa with different chairs and tables. The team can help you double-check clearances for doorways and stairwells and talk through layout choices before anything arrives at your home.
Bright has experienced stores where a salesperson shadows your every step, which is why he trains against it. “We’re not shadow stalkers,” he says with a laugh. “Some people don’t want help. Some do.” The team will greet you, ask how they can help, then give you room to breathe.”
Service extends past the purchase. Delivery is free within 50 miles, and the crew will set up your furniture and remove the unwanted pieces you’re replacing. The personal help continues when special circumstances pop up. Bright shares simple examples: a customer needed a purchase dropped off at a son’s house, so the team made the extra stop. Another family needed help shifting heavy pieces from one room to another to make space for new items. “Other stores don’t do that,” Bright says. “That’s the personal touch that we have.”
Quality furniture is truly an investment. The store partners with Synchrony for customers with strong credit who want long promotional plans, and with Acima and similar leasing programs for shoppers building credit. Promotions change with the season, but the goal stays the same—spread out payments while you enjoy the furniture now.
If you’re new to financing, the staff will lay out the differences between interest-free promotions and lease-to-own plans, then help you choose what fits.
Bright hears it all the time — mattress shopping can feel
overwhelming. He suggests a calm, simple approach. Start by deciding whether you prefer firm, medium, or plush. He encourages customers to try a few firm mattresses, then a few medium, then a few plush models.
“Just lie down on them and try it,” he says. “You’ll know more quickly than you think.”
No one rushes you at Plymouth Furniture & Mattress. You are welcome to take notes and return the next day to view or test your finalists again. The store keeps popular brands in stock, making it possible for most furniture items and mattresses to be delivered quickly.
Bright is aware that delivery is often where furniture shopping goes wrong at other stores. At Plymouth Furniture, reviews show it’s where the experience shines.
The level of care, combined with free delivery and haul-away service, helps explain why so many shoppers drive from other towns to purchase from Plymouth Furniture & Mattress.
If you like to plan ahead, Plymouth Furniture offers a short “quickstart” list that really helps:
Measurements: jot down wall lengths, ceiling height, and door clearances. Measure the piece you’re replacing, too.
Simple floor plan: a sketch on notebook paper is fine. Mark windows, doors, and traffic paths.
Photos: a few snapshots of the room in daytime light tell the staff a lot about your style.
Swatches: bring a cushion or pillow if you’re matching existing tones.
Budget range: a flexible target keeps choices focused and avoids disappointment later.
October 25, 2025 -
Nov 1, 2025Back by Popular Demand The Great Vintage Dash Frankenmuth Day Trip - Second Bus Added with South Bend Pickup - Spend the day in Michigan’s Bavarian village, starting with shopping and sightseeing in
returns with a brand-new Chicago neighborhood, fresh thrift spots, and unique resale finds Travel in comfort by luxury motorcoach,with plenty of room below for all your amazing treasures $99 00#
Downtown Frankenmuth, then exploring Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland world’s largest Christmas store with a retail showroom spanning over 1 7 football fields of holiday magic Onboard the luxury motorcoach, enjoy donuts and cider, watch Christmas movies, and join a hands-on bow-making demo to create your own Christmas wreath bow with materials provided by Dash Getaways $125 00#
Nov 2–8, 2025 - Savannah, Jekyll Island & Beaufort, SC - SOLD OUT Dec 6, 2025 -Holiday Shopping Trip • Woodfield Mall & IKEA - Chicago Let Dash Getaways handle the traffic while you enjoy a festive day at Woodfield Mall with over 300 stores, plus an optional IKEA stop Onboard fun includes Christmas movies, snacks, holiday games with prizes, and a midday package drop-off to keep your hands free for more shopping! $90 00#
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There are often manufacturer specials tied to holidays. The team will tell you when a favorite line will run a promotion so you can time your purchase well.
Customers visit from Bremen, Culver, Rochester, Knox, South Bend, Mishawaka and beyond. Part of that is selection, part is service, and the rest is logistics. With two locations — Plymouth and Wabash — the company enjoys the economies of scale that keep inventory deep and deliveries moving. Their warehouses hold far more than a single store can carry, which shortens wait times.
Bright also sees Plymouth Furniture as a neighbor, not just a retailer. The team supports local nonprofits, churches and community events. They contribute to school raffles and volunteer their time to community projects.
The store’s design work doesn’t stop at the front door. The team has furnished community spaces, lodge-style gathering rooms, and lake homes that welcome summer guests. They know that bunk rooms often need special attention since many families want sturdy built-ins with a clean look and durable finishes.
At Plymouth Furniture & Mattress, special attention is paid to all
projects. Marilyn coordinates with painters, flooring installers and windowtreatment pros so timelines make sense and projects stay on track.
If your plans are modest, you still get the same care.
Currently, recliners and lift chairs are two of the most popular items from the store’s vast selection. Those with features that make daily life easier — power headrests, lumbar support, USB ports, and gentle stand-assist — are particularly in demand. Sectionals continue to shine, with open floor plans being so common in homes now.
As we head into the holidays, Mike advises shoppers to watch
for Black Friday, December, and year-end promotions. The store posts specials online and in-store.
It is well-known that retail cultures are built by everyday habits. At Plymouth Furniture & Mattress, one habit stands out — respect for how customers like to shop. Bright returns to the idea often with standards such as no pushy chatter, no hovering, help when you want it, space when you don’t. From the first look to the final setup, the staff stays focused on comfort, function and value.
Bright and Rody are building their company in ways that will make it last.
Open the front door and you’ll feel it — easy smiles, tidy displays, and a pace that lets you think.
“Openness and friendliness, I guess would be my first thought,” Bright says.
Visit Plymouth Furniture & Mattress at 2127 N. Oak Dr., Plymouth, IN. For more information, give them a call at 574-9361299 or visit them online at plymouthfm.com.
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HARNESSING HERITAGE
SMALL-TOWN VALUES & QUALITY CRAFT DEFINE SCHROCK’S IN TOPEKA
Writer / Meredith Baker
Photographer / Kari Lipscomb
The sound of grain spilling into metal bins, the faint jingle of brass buckles and the soft scent of alfalfa in the air at Schrock’s Feed & Harness aren’t just background noises. They’re part of
has been serving its neighbors for decades with something far more nourishing than feed alone. It’s a place where hard work and heritage still matter, where conversations stretch as long as the workday, and where each customer is treated more like family than a sale.
product. It was about people.
“My grandpa started the business with the idea that if you’re going to do something, you do it right,” Schrock says. “That’s the way it’s always been.”
the company for generations.
Walk into Schrock’s and you’ll notice something immediately: the shelves don’t just hold feed. They tell stories of past legacy and future nourishment. Every bag, harness and handcrafted product is carefully curated to meet the real needs of the people — and animals — they serve.
The store offers an impressive variety of feed options, each formulated for specific dietary needs, alongside horse tack, harnesses and a full line of equine care essentials. But beyond what’s in stock, what makes Schrock’s truly special is its approach. Customers often stop by not just to make a purchase, but to ask questions, swap advice or share updates from the barn.
Schrock says that sense of connection is intentional.
“It’s about trust,” he explains. “People know they can come in here and get something
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OLD-FASHIONED VALUES MEET MODERN QUALITY
In a world that’s increasingly digital and disconnected, Schrock’s Feed & Harness stands out for staying grounded. While some competitors rely on large-scale production or online sales, Schrock’s focuses on quality, customization and proven consistency over time.
That’s especially true for its alfalfa pellets, a cornerstone product that has gained steady popularity among farmers and horse owners. Unlike mass-produced alternatives, Schrock’s pellets are made in-house using trusted methods and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The result is freshness customers can see, touch and trust.
But that doesn’t mean the business is afraid to evolve. Schrock continues to adapt operations with efficiency and sustainability in mind,
while still honoring the traditions that have defined the family’s work ethic for decades.
“We don’t cut corners,” he says. “That’s not who we are.”
HARNESSING CRAFTSMANSHIP
While the feed business keeps things humming, the “harness” side of Schrock’s is where old-world craftsmanship truly shines. The store offers a selection of handmade harnesses and tack, meticulously crafted with attention to detail that is rare in the age of mass production. For many longtime customers, these harnesses aren’t just equipment — they’re heirlooms in the making.
Each piece is designed to be durable, functional and beautiful, embodying the kind of artistry that comes from generations of working with both leather and livestock. And that craftsmanship isn’t limited to the Amish community. Customers from across Indiana and neighboring states rely on Schrock’s for
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products
COMMUNITY IN EVERY CONVERSATION
What truly sets Schrock’s Feed & Harness apart is its connection to the community. It’s a place where customers linger long after their purchases are complete, where local kids grow up learning about feed and farming, and where advice is handed out as freely as a smile.
“Folks around here take care of each other,” Schrock says. “That’s how it’s supposed to be.”
That philosophy spills into every aspect of the business, from personalized service to fair pricing. Whether a customer is buying bulk feed for a large farm or just picking up a few essentials for their first 4-H horse, they’ll receive the same thoughtful attention.
That approach has helped Schrock’s earn something money can’t buy: loyalty. Some
families have been shopping there for generations, while new customers often discover it through word of mouth or local referrals.
A STEADY HAND IN A CHANGING WORLD
As agriculture evolves and rural economies shift, businesses like Schrock’s Feed & Harness quietly anchor their communities.
While others come and go, Schrock’s remains steadfast — a symbol of reliability, craftsmanship and care.
Samuel Schrock isn’t one to make big speeches about legacy, but his commitment is clear in every decision he makes.
“We just try to do our best every day,” he says.
Hours (Feb 17 - Dec 31): Monday 12PM -6PM
“That’s what keeps people coming back.”
In Topeka, where word travels fast and trust travels farther, that is more than enough.
Schrock’s Feed & Harness is located at 8375 West 300 South in Topeka in Indiana. They’re open Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, call 260593-2713.
DIRTY DISHES, FULL HEARTS
Celebrating Family, Food & Holiday Cheer
Writer / Phyllis Wille
Once, many years ago, stood a little girl feeling exasperated in front of a sink full of dirty dishes. She had spent all morning pulling her mothers special holiday plates from their display to clean them all to be used for the holiday they were hosting that year for their family, Thanksgiving. These plates were stunning, and only ever used twice a year.
She washed them with the utmost care, making sure not to cause them to clink and clank. The table had been set, and she had felt so, so proud of all the work that felt hard to a little girl washing plates bigger than her head. Now, after the meal had been gobbled and
laughs exchanged over those gorgeous mugs filled with warm coffee, all of those dishes had made their way back to the sink in much worse condition than when they had first needed to be rinsed. This upset the little girl and caused her to grumble at the mountain of work before her. Her father, noticing her shift in mood, decided to see what the problem was.
Once she had finished telling him her sad tale of washing dishes all morning, and now having to wash even more and much dirtier dishes, he simply chuckled at her and began washing the dishes, handing them to her to be dried and set aside.
“There are actually reasons to be thankful for these dirty dishes,” her father said to her in his soft spoken cadence. She scoffed slightly to herself and asked her father what those reasons would be, as in the moment she couldn’t fathom them.
“These dirty dishes are a sign of a good meal, food that was made and enjoyed when maybe others don’t have any.” He continued, “The amount of dishes here shows people that we love and can share a meal with, when maybe others cannot.”
She felt silly for such folly thinking before, when his points made so much sense. Her father, understanding her silence as
thoughtfulness and knowing he hit the mark, didn’t say another word but helped her finish the dishes in quiet companionship.
It’s an interesting concept, to be thankful for the dirty dishes and all the mess that comes with the holidays and family gatherings.
At the New Kitchen Store, we like to kick off the big holiday season with our open house. For us, the open house is like our Thanksgiving with our customers. We change the whole store in the blink of an eye to become a winter wonderland, we prepare recipes made from our jams, spices, mixes, and everything else and we drop the prices and open the doors to anyone who wants to enter and spend the day with us eating delicious samples and enjoying each other’s company.
For us, this is a chance to show our appreciation and thankfulness to those who support the store year round. We get a chance to serve those in our community with
delicious food, warm coffee, and offering all the same high quality products at a lower price for the day.
So come and join us, Friday November 28. Let us open our home store to you, and let us fill our trash cans with used cups and plates from good food enjoyed and great coffee shared with each other. Let us be grateful for all those in our community we get to call our own, and start the holidays with cups overflowing with joy and gratitude at the neighbors surrounding us this year.
Regardless of the holidays, we always love for people to come in and enjoy our gourmet flavored coffee we made for the day.
So stop in and share a cup with us, we’re open Monday through Saturday 9-6 p.m. Have any questions? Call the store at 574-586-2745 or email us at nks@ newkitchenstore.com.
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4. Palm fruits
5. Condensing
6. Jamaican music
9. Deserves 11. Perfectionists
13. Misjudge 15. Sanctuary
16. Speech extracts
18. Absent-minded scribble 19. Bee homes
21. Discontinued (project)
Moist
•
•
BUILT TO LAST
MICHIANA ICF SUPPLY BRINGS SUPERFORM BLOCKS TO LOCAL BUILDERS
Writer / Meredith Baker
Hours:
Monday-11am-7pm
Tuesday-11am-7pm, Prime Rib Special 4pm-7pm
14TH STREET
Wednesday-11am-7pm
Thursday-11am-7pm
Friday-11am-7pm
Saturday-11am-7pm
For Orla Bontrager, construction is more than concrete and lumber, it’s about building smarter, stronger and with the future in mind. Michiana ICF Supply, located on U.S. Highway 20 in LaGrange, has spent the past several years installing Superform blocks, and Orla has only recently started introducing area builders and homeowners to an alternative to traditional wood framing: insulated concrete forms, or ICF.
ICF may sound like a technical term, however, Bontrager breaks it down in simple terms.
“Think of it like a giant Lego block made of foam, with reinforced concrete poured into the center,” he explains. “It’s solid, and once we had the opportunity to install Superform blocks, we loved them.”
Michiana ICF Supply now supplies Superform blocks to regional builders, homeowners and contractors, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive so far.
“We haven’t gotten any negative feedback,” Bontrager says. “We’re not selling to every builder, but those who have used the product really like it.”
EFFICIENCY AND STRENGTH
One of the biggest advantages of building with ICF is its energy performance. By sandwiching concrete between layers of insulated foam, the walls regulate indoor temperature year-round, leading to significant savings on heating and cooling.
“It acts as a conductor from the ground temperature, regardless of the season,” Bontrager says. “The core of your walls is regulated yearround. From an energy standpoint, it’s hard to beat.”
Beyond efficiency, ICF delivers peace of mind. With concrete at its core, an ICF home offers protection against severe weather.
“It can stand up to 250 miles per hour winds,” Bontrager says. “From a tornado standpoint, it acts as a storm shelter. That’s a huge advantage for families here in the Midwest.”
These blocks are not only fire-resistant but also provide excellent noise reduction, making them appealing for both safety and comfort.
COMPARED TO TRADITIONAL WOOD FRAMING
Traditional wood framing has long been the standard in residential construction. But as Bontrager points out, it isn’t always as effective as it seems.
“To meet your R-value specs, which refers to a material’s capacity to resist heat flow, traditional framing is not a true R-value,” he says. “It doesn’t transfer from hot to cold in the same way.”
RV REPAIR & MOBILE SERVICE
While ICF construction can come with a slightly higher upfront cost, Bontrager emphasizes that the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial expense.
“It’s an investment that pays for itself,” he says. “With energy efficiency, disaster resilience and the durability of the product, you’re looking at lower costs and higher value over the lifetime of the home.”
INSTALLATION IS ANOTHER ADVANTAGE.
“The Superform blocks are very DIY-friendly,” Bontrager says. “The manufacturer provides plans and schematics, so even homeowners who want to take on their own projects have the resources to do it.”
Educating the Market
Bontrager sees education as the next big step for Michiana ICF Supply. Although ICF has been used in North America for decades,
many consumers in northern Indiana and regional areas are still unfamiliar with the product.
“There’s a lot of interest in ICF, but little knowledge about it among the general public,” Bontrager says. “Our goal is to increase consumer awareness and be trusted experts you can partner with for answers.”
Bontrager and his team plan to host future seminars for contractors and anyone interested in learning about the benefits of ICF.
BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE
When asked about who makes the best candidate for building with ICF, Bontrager quickly points to forward-thinkers.
“It’s generally people who like to plan years ahead,” he says. “They’re budget-conscious, they put a lot of thought into their build, and they want the best value that lasts.”
As ICF gains traction, Bontrager hopes more local families will
experience its benefits firsthand. With Michiana ICF Supply now firmly established as a regional distributor for Superform blocks, Bontrager believes the timing is right for broader adoption.
“We’re here to help you take advantage of this amazing product, and to build homes that are not only strong and efficient but designed to last for generations,” he says.
Michiana Builders, LLC is located at 950 U.S. 20, LaGrange, Ind. For general inquiries, call 260-667-8411.
THANKSGIVING LEFTOVER SLIDERS
INGREDIENTS
• 12 Hawaiian rolls
• 1 pound thinly sliced turkey
• 1 pound thinly sliced ham
• 1 pound thin-sliced Swiss cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• ½ tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tablespoon everything bagel seasoning
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch casserole dish with foil and spray the bottom with nonstick spray.
2. Without pulling the rolls apart, slice them in half horizontally. Place the bottom half of the rolls into the prepared casserole dish.
3. Layer the turkey and ham onto the rolls, and then layer on the cheese.
4. Place the top half of rolls onto the cheese.
5. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl in the microwave or in a saucepan on the stovetop. Once melted, stir in the Dijon, Worcestershire, and everything bagel seasoning.
6. Brush the butter mixture over the tops of the rolls. Let the rolls sit for 5 minutes to soak up some of the butter.
7. Cover the rolls with foil and bake until they’re warm throughout and the cheese is melted, about 30 to 35 minutes, removing the foil during the last 5 minutes to brown the tops.
8. Follow the bun lines to cut into sliders, and Enjoy! For an extra twist add cranberry sauce, honey mustard, or if you like it spicy hot honey!
ARMED WITH PURPOSE
NAPPANEE COUPLE FOCUS ON PEOPLE FIRST AT JR FIREARMS
Writer / Darcie Dodds Schott
Photographer / Jubilee Edgell
At a business that sells primarily powerful firearms, there is a calm undercurrent of compassion that drives JR Firearms owners Rachel and Jack Penry. Following robust careers in other industries, the Penrys chose to open a community-focused business with purpose in Nappanee.
With a tagline like theirs, it’s no surprise this is a business with a story: “A full-line, woman-owned firearm store in a classically American downtown in northern Indiana.”
Yes, Rachel Penry has been shooting guns her whole life. Together, the husband-wife owner duo share a passion for the people of Nappanee on every level of running their business.
A carefully curated collection of firearms, ammunition and gear fills the retail store of JR Firearms. All in-stock items reflect the requests of customers, including pistols, rifles, revolvers, shotguns and suppressors, as well as ammunition and shooting accessories such as
FOUR WOODS CUSTOM
holsters and belts. The focus is hunting, recreation and protection. The Penrys opened their doors more than two years ago with a priority of answering the community’s need for a full-service firearms store.
The business also issues hunting and fishing licenses, with all sporting licenses available in the state of Indiana offered on-site. They can also complete in-store fingerprinting using Bayometric’s ATF fingerprint scan.
For financially savvy customers, the retail store stocks a growing number of items, while the online store offers an endless selection of products from the most respected brands. Customers who purchase online and choose to ship directly to JR Firearms pay no shipping or transfer fees.
The owners admit men make up the majority of customers, but note a growing number of women seek firearms for protection and sport, often as first-time buyers.
“Which handgun should I get?” is a common question from these customers. The Penrys reassuringly answer, “We don’t know. Let’s try out some options to see what feels right as you ‘rack it’ [pull back the slide] and meets your hand dexterity to ensure you’ll want to carry it.”
They know the value of providing customized service to women and first-time customers, because “if we treat them right, they will let others know.”
JR Firearms has been a member of the Nappanee Chamber of Commerce since opening, participating in Visit Nappanee and Friday Fest, and serving as Stage Sponsor for one of the bands in a recent Apple Festival. Another standout since the business’ beginning is staff member Trevor Mast, who has been an asset to the Penrys during busy weekends.
Barndominium
The company also partners with community events, including VFW raffles, and has sponsored local Little League teams and the trap team at Northwood High School, where Rachel Penry attended as a native of Nappanee.
The Conservation Club of Nappanee is another strong partner of JR Firearms, dedicated to preserving local natural resources and supporting the shooting sports. Though they don’t currently partner with adventure travel organizations such as hunt clubs and fishing excursions, the owners find the prospect intriguing.
Partnerships also extend to working with the Nappanee Police Department to offer firearms safety courses. JR Firearms doesn’t have the space to host the courses, so they work with the department to schedule classes as timing permits.
Looking ahead, the Penrys remind customers that on Jan. 1, 2026, a change in federal law will eliminate the suppressor fee. This does not remove suppressors from the Firearms Act, it simply removes the fee. They recommend customers wanting to buy a suppressor do so now, so the store can set the firearm aside. As January 2026 approaches, they predict demand will rise and customers may struggle to find the exact suppressor they want. Contact the store directly to process an order, and they will handle all the paperwork in-house.
The Penrys plan to expand merchandise to include more Core Essentials, military and high-end apparel and gear, as well as Byrna pistols and pepperball items. All of these additions reflect the owners’ response to customer requests.
In addition to radio advertising and features in the Goshen News, JR Firearms has a Twitter presence and Gab Social account. New email marketing campaigns are also forthcoming. For questions and more information, visit jrfirearms.com.
JR Firearms is located at 105 E. Lincoln St. in Nappanee. For more information, email sales@jrfirearms.com or call 574-336-0048.
FROM SNOW TO GOLD
THE UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME’S RISE FROM WILDERNESS TO WORLD-RENOWNED LEGACY
Writer / Jeff Kenney
On a frigid, snowy November day in 1842, 183 years ago this month, eight Catholic priests arrived at a place whose name in English is translated “Lake of Our Lady,” marking the inauspicious beginnings of one of the most recognizable institutions in Northern Indiana.
In French, the St. Joseph County-based location was Notre Dame du Lac, and Father Edward Sorin had been accompanied on his long journey there from Vincennes, Indiana, by seven other French and Irish priests with plans to start a college there.
As Sorin wrote to his bishop at Vincennes, the lake-area land was given to the priests on the condition that they start the college “at the earliest opportunity. As there is no other school within more than a hundred miles, this college cannot fail to succeed...Before long, it will develop on a large scale (and) will be one of the most powerful means for good in this country.”
That school, which opened the following year in 1843, would of course become the University of Notre Dame, one of the best-known universities in the US, and certainly the best-known Catholic one, even if its reputation centers on the sport of football, for many people, as much as anything else.
In many ways, the story of the founding of Notre Dame begins with a perhaps even more remarkable story connecting a giant of US history with Indiana’s history.
Bishop Simon Bruté, born in France in 1779, had witnessed the horrors of the Reign of Terror in the wake of the French Revolution,
and opted to be a priest despite receiving training to be a physician. Bruté became interested in missionary efforts to the US and in 1810 accompanied Bishop Benedict Joseph Flaget to Baltimore, where Bruté taught philosophy at St. Mary’s College, followed by various missionary efforts, teaching, and priestly roles along the east coast. He also returned to France in 1815 to retrieve his personal library, the largest of its kind in the entire US at the time. In fact, President John Quincy Adams called Bruté, who was also a prolific and eloquent writer, “the most learned man of his day in America.”
By 1834, the splitting up of the Catholic diocese of Bardstown, Kentucky, into smaller sections, led to the creation of the Diocese of Vincennes, Indiana. That same year, Bruté accepted the position of Bishop of Vincennes and crossed the Appalachian Mountains to serve in a diocese that encompassed all of Indiana as well as eastern Illinois. He would later travel again back to France to secure additional priests
for the vast area, as well as funds to erect churches and schools. One of these trips, in 1836, saw the arrival from France of a young priest named Benjamin Petit, who later became a missionary to the Potawatomi at the oldest church in our own Lakes area Marshall County, a log cabin chapel between Culver and Plymouth. Petit would accompany over 800 Potawatomi on the Trail of Death in 1838, dying as a result, and he’s buried today under the replica log cabin chapel at Notre Dame (more on that shortly).
Bishop Bruté’s huge library, meanwhile, was sent by flatboat up the Ohio River to Vincennes where it formed the basis of the first library in the State of Indiana, today housed in what’s known as the Old Cathedral Brute Library, “one of the finest collections of rare books and artifacts in the United States today,” according to its website. The Old Cathedral itself refers to one of the oldest churches in the state, known today as the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier in Vincennes, built in 1826.
Meanwhile, Bishop Bruté’s efforts would converge with those of the first Catholic priest ordained in the US, Stephen Theodore Badin, whose life and missionary efforts, including to Lakes area Potawatomi Native Americans and those in the broader Kentucky and Indiana area, are a tale unto themselves.
For purposes of our story it’s enough to note that in 1832 Badin purchased 524 acres of land in the area of South Bend, constructing a log chapel there. In 1834, he sold the land to Bruté, on the condition that a school and orphanage would be built there, which of course, will
bring us to Fr. Sorin’s 1842 journey to South Bend.
Incidentally, though Badin died in Cincinnati in 1853, his body was re-interred in 1906 under the same replica log chapel as the aforementioned Fr. Petit (the original chapel Badin had built had been destroyed by fire in 1856).
Bruté died in 1839 and was succeeded by Bishop Célestin Guynemer, who had inherited the St. Joseph County land from his predecessor. Bishop Guynemer offered it to another young French priest (born 1814): Fr. Edward Sorin, a priest of the Congregation of the Holy Cross who had been sent to the US in 1841. After various other endeavors and discussions with his bishop that included Sorin expressing interest in starting a college, the agreement was made that he and six other priests would make the long journey from Vincennes to South Bend.
The group trekked the 250 miles north during one of the harshest winters Indiana had seen, splitting into two groups with Sorin’s group being the first to arrive in South Bend, on the afternoon of November 26, 1842. They were met by fur trader and explorer Alexis Coquillard, credited as the co-founder of South Bend, who took them the next day to the future Notre Dame site.
Sorin and the others moved into the log cabin chapel and set about the
business of launching the school, including the eventual construction of a building known as Old College, which was completed in 1843, the oldest still-standing building on the campus.
With just two students enrolled initially, Notre Dame du Lac was at first only a primary and secondary school before receiving its college charter in January of 1844 by the Indiana General Assembly (the same year that a sister school to the all-male Notre Dame, a girls’ college named St. Mary’s, opened its doors).
The University of Notre Dame awarded its first academic degrees in 1849, even as the school continued to grow in both student population and buildings. By the university presidency of Fr. William Corby, from 1866-1872, the student body had grown to 500, adding its law school in 1869 and beginning construction of its Sacred Heart Church in 1870 (today that church is a basilica, meaning it was granted special status by the pope for its historic and architectural significance).
The school’s initial main building was replaced in 1865 with a second main building, the first to see a dome with a statue of the Virgin Mary atop it. Just 14 years later, that building -- which housed much of the university at the time -- was destroyed by fire, leading to massive fundraising and construction efforts that saw the completion of a 187-foot replacement building opened by the fall semester of 1879. The year 1882 saw the addition to that structure of the famous Golden
Dome, adorned with a 19-foot statue of Mary and gilded with real gold (at Sorin’s insistence and following a lengthy debate over the matter with an opposing contingency). The dome became arguably the most recognizable and iconic feature of the university.
Of course the growth trend of the 19th century only continued into the 20th, with 2,500 students enrolled by 1925, even as descendants of Catholic immigrants from years prior, especially from Ireland, helped bolster its numbers and cultural status.
So, too, did the university’ s explosion onto the college football scene during that era, particularly under the leadership of legendary head coach Knute Rockne, who began in that role in 1918. Rockne not only led the “Fighting Irish” to five undefeated seasons, three national championships, and a Rose Bowl win (in 1925), but he and others helped craft the near-mythic status of the team by way of players like George Gipp, whose stature can be seen as the focus of the Ronald Reagan-led 1940 movie, “Knute Rockne - All American,” with its famous line urging Gipp’s team to “win one for the Gipper” -- and the team’s 1924 players known as “the Four Horsemen,” so named for the opening line of sports writer Grantland Rice’s coverage of the Oct. 18 ND-Army game which read: “Outlined against a blue-gray October sky the Four Horseman rode again...”
The stature and scope globally of Notre Dame as a venerable institution only grew as the 20th century progressed, including under
the 35-year leadership of Fr. Theodore Hesbergh (up to 1987), who was noted as a social activist, writer, and public servant who labored to increase the school’s academic reputation as one of the foremost Catholic institutions of scholarship in America.
And of course that football fanaticism continued, even as another classic sports movie, 1993’s “Rudy,” brought the program anew to international audiences.
Today, the University of Notre Dame graduate program includes more than 50 master, doctoral and professional degrees offered by its seven schools and colleges, an array of successful athletic programs, and an endowment valued at more than $20 billion.
It’s all a remarkable story of growth from the humble beginnings wrought by a small group of pioneer priests traversing the Indiana wilderness nearly 200 years ago, and perhaps one that fulfills Edward Sorin’s dream that his school would be “...one of the most powerful means of doing good in this country.”
Jacqueline West, Joy Carter, Hannah Mathews, Sara Mathews, Matt Kolacz
Writer / Mike Dikos
Photographer / Jubilee Edgell
Charcuterie. When hearing or even saying the word, perhaps visions of sipping a fine Bordeaux and chasing romance through the streets of Paris along the Seine are conjured up in one’s mind. For others, perhaps a simpler vision — such as, to borrow a line from a popular movie, “drinking wine, eating cheese and catching some rays.”
Whichever version you imagine, the charcuterie board, tray or table has become a popular way of serving an appetizer or even a complete meal. When the need arises— whether just for yourself or for that special event you’ve been planning — look no further than Gather 2 Graze in Plymouth to fulfill your charcuterie needs.
The etymology of the word charcuterie dates back to 15th century France, literally meaning “cooked flesh.” Leaving nothing to go to waste during difficult times, people used every portion of meat available to them, and
to help preserve it, the meat was often cured. Sausages, salamis and prosciuttos are examples of such cured meats. To soften the medieval harshness of the literal translation, charcuterie now simply refers to cured meat.
Gather 2 Graze is family-owned by motherand-daughter duo Sara and Hannah Mathews, along with Sara’s brother, French-trained chef Matt Kolacz.
“Sitting around the kitchen table breaking bread and playing board games with family is kind of how the concept developed into an eventual reality,” Sara says.
What started at home, then moved to a commercial kitchen, and now into a downtown Plymouth storefront demonstrates their devotion to both their business and their craft. This past August, that concept officially became reality.
In addition to an assortment of meats, charcuterie boards often include varieties of accompaniments. Cheeses, fruits, vegetables and nuts are just a few items that can be found gracing a typical board. To guarantee the finest selection and quality, Gather 2 Graze has partnered with trusted suppliers and vendors. The freshest produce, the finest cheeses and the highest quality meats are sourced through distributors both locally and nationally.
Special requests for particular cheeses or meats can often be fulfilled. Gluten-free options are also available when needed.
A charcuterie board wouldn’t be complete without jams, spreads or mustards providing both sweet and savory flavors. Local artisans supply many of the jellies, jams and mustards used to create the colorful and tasty boards
December 5th & 6th December 5th & 6th
In Culver In Culver
f i n d c u l v e r . c o m / e v e n t s
crafted by Gather 2 Graze.
Boards can be made to serve from three to five people or as many as 35 to 40. For larger crowds, grazing tables can accommodate up to 200 individuals. Presented with meats, cheeses, vegetables, pickles, olives, nuts, spreads, jams and mustards in bite-sized portions, the grazing table is a perfect way to showcase your shower, wedding or other special event. Themed and customized charcuteries can also be designed—think Easter, the Super Bowl, ethnic spreads or even
a s’mores-themed board.
The café itself provides appetizers and salads, as well as a variety of hot and cold sandwiches. On Saturdays, brunch is offered with menu items hot off the griddle. The Grab-and-Go case features individual boxes as well as fruit and yogurt. Gourmet items such as jams, cheeses and meats are also available for purchase.
Looking to the future, Gather 2 Graze sees expansion on the horizon. With the space already secured, the seating area will be enlarged, and a liquor license will allow them to serve alcoholic beverages. Handcrafted charcuterie boards provided through consignment will also be available. In addition, charcuterie classes will be hosted monthly, with reservations available in advance.
From individual boxed lunches or gourmet sandwich trays for business luncheons, to a charcuterie board for dinner tonight or a grazing table for a graduation or wedding — whatever your need — if you
desire freshness and quality, look no further than Gather 2 Graze.
Gather 2 Graze is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and brunch is served on Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the grill closing at noon. They are closed Sunday and Monday.
Located at 203 N. Michigan St. in downtown Plymouth, they can be reached at 574-5402139, online at gather2grazecharcuterie. com, by email at gather2grazecharcuterie@ gmail.com, or on Facebook at Gather 2 Graze Charcuterie, LLC.
Brighton | Kendra
Nora Fleming | Happy
Clara Sunwoo | Spartina
Ambre | Hobo | Latico
Lysse | CapriBlue
NOVEMBER
Submit Your Events!
FOR UPDATES REGARDING EVENTS PLEASE CHECK THE LAKE ASSOCIATION’S/ ORGANIZATIONS FACEBOOK PAGES/WEBSITES.
Koontz Lake/ Walkerton/ Grovertown
ALL times listed are Central Time.
EVERY MONDAY
Bingo – Doors open at 5 p.m., Early Bird starts at 6 p.m., and regular games start at 6:30 p.m. at the Koontz Lake Association Community building.
EVERY THURSDAY
4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. - New Kitchen Store Farmers Market. Please visit our online store and don’t forget to like us on Facebook! facebook. com/NewKitchenStore
KLA Board Meeting at the KLA Clubhouse is the 3rd Tuesday of the month. Meetings are open to the public and start at 6:30pm. Come and join us and find out how you can volunteer in the community. You can also find out what is going on around Koontz Lake.
Koontz Lake Lions Club meet every 3rd Thursday at 6 p.m. in the Sewer District building located at 10625 E Prairie Ave in Koontz Lake. Meetings are open the public.
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6 p.m. - Koontz Lake Conservancy District Monthly Board Meeting. The meeting will be held at the Sewer District building located at 10625 E Prairie Ave in Koontz Lake. Interested parties may join remotely by calling (240) 591-0378 and entering the code 385729# when prompted, or via web at https:// join.freeconferencecall.com/ klcdboardmeeting.
Rent the Koontz Lake Clubhouse for your next party! The rental fee is $100 for non-members, $75 for members with a $65 deposit that is refunded if no damage occurs to the clubhouse. If interested, please contact Cathy at 219-229-4424. The facility holds up to 100 people and has a fully equipped kitchen.
Bremen/Lake of the Woods
ALL times listed are Eastern.
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9 a.m. – BCC Meeting at the BCC Building
Knox/Bass Lake/Starke County
ALL Times listed are Central Time.
2
Noon – 4 p.m. – Mint Festival Fall Fair featuring crafts, food, and family fun. This event will be held at Liberty Elementary School located at 809 W Talmer Ave, North Judson, IN.
DECEMBER 6
3:30 p.m. – City of Knox Peppermint Parade
Lake Maxinkuckee/ Culver/ Marshall County
ALL Times listed are Eastern Time.
EVERY SATURDAY
10 a.m.-1 p.m. – Culver Farmers Market. The farmer’s market will be held at the Culver Union Township Public Library’s lower level.
EVERY TUESDAY AND THURSDAY
8:30am – Yoga at the Beach Lodge, all levels are welcome. Chair yoga is at 10 a.m.
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4 p.m.-7 p.m. or until sold outTyner Odd Fellows Fish Fry at the Walkerton Elementary School located at 805 Washington Street, Walkerton, IN
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8 a.m.-10 a.m. - Culver Turkey Trot at the Culver Park.