The Paper of Miami County -- Dec. 22, 2021

Merry Christmas Miami County PO Box 603, Wabash, IN 46992 (260) 563-8326

FREE.

December 22, 2021

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Published Weekly, Read Daily

Money for Miami County’s future

Miami County awarded

millions for area development

By Michelle Boswell mboswell@thepaperofmiami.com Miami, Howard, and Tipton counties have been awarded $30 million in regional funding to complete major economic and quality-of-life projects.

These projects are meant to bring hundreds of millions of dollars in public and private investment to these counties. The $30 million will be distributed between the three counties to complete some of those projects.

The money comes from Indiana’s READI program, which was formed to push regions together to develop economic opportunities, workforce development and useful benefits for those within the specified area. Seventeen regions representing all of the 92 counties in Indiana ended up receiving funding from the READI program. The total amount of funding is $500 million. The READI program launched in May 2021, with $500 million that came from the federal American Rescue Plan. This funding was put into Indiana’s two-year budget.

See READI, Page 2

Vol. 2, No. 43

Jim Tidd, second from far right, Miami County Economic Development Authority Director stands with members of the North Central Indiana Regional Planning Council.

Proudly Serving Miami County

Gov. Eric Holcomb is third from the far right.

Photo provided.

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THE PAPER

December 22, 2021

READI The North Central Indiana Regional Planning Council (NCIRPC), which is made up of Miami, Howard, Tipton, Cass, Clinton and Fulton counties, submitted a 27-project grant proposal.

The NCIRPC requested $50 million to fully fund all of its projects.

Only five regions out of the 17 received the maximum amount.

The 17 regions presented their proposals to the READI review committee. The committee reviewed and scored the proposals keeping funding guidelines as well as historical population trends in the forefront to make their decision.

After the evaluation, the READI review committee members proposed funding recommendations to the Indiana Economic Development Corporation board of directors. After reviewing the proposals, the IEDC gave their approval.

Recently, during a regular meeting of the commission, Gov. Eric Holcomb and the IEDC made the announcement as to how much each region would receive.

Gov. Holcomb said the total requests tripled the allocated $500 million READI budget, with submissions from the 17 regions totaling more than $1.5 billion. The proposals included nearly 800 projects and programs with a potential investment of $15.2 billion.

“The 17 regions submitted innovative, creative and visionary projects that will result in a positive economic impact on Indiana’s future,” Holcomb said. “These plans will shape

continued from Page 1 Indiana for generations to come and bring value to our state like nothing we’ve witnessed before.”

Jim Tidd, Executive Director of the Miami County Economic Development Authority, said the state may select the projects to be funded. At this time, regional leaders are waiting for the state to give guidance as to how projects will be selected.

Tidd said that although they received only $30 million, the impact will be much larger in the region, which is smaller and more rural, than the $50 million that went to more metropoli-

tan areas.

Tidd said the region will continue to pursue other options for the projects that won’t be funded with the goal of seeing them completed.

In Miami County, the projects included develop-

ment of the Wabash Riverfront, upgrades to infrastructure on North Broadway to attract new developments such as 85 new homes, a hotel, a hospital campus, and a commercial district.

“These plans will shape Indiana for generations to come and bring value to our state like nothing we’ve witnessed before.”

Gov. Eric Holcomb

HAUL-ALL 260-330-1802 • 260-571-2778 Basement, Garage Clean Out, New Construction, Roofing Same Day Service Serving Wabash & Surrounding Counties

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The Paper reserves the right to refuse for publication any advertising that is considered offensive, misleading, or detrimental to the public, the newspaper or another advertiser and to edit advertising at its discretion.

Send story ideas to: mboswell@thepaperofmiami.com

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December 22, 2021

105 W.Third St. | Peru 765.473.6674

FUNERAL HOMES Family Owned & Operated Since 1945 and Serving All Faiths Family Funeral Directors - Thomas Leedy | Julie Leedy-Walker | Mark Frischman

A Trusted Trusted Name in Funeral Funeral Service Service

136 S. Elm St. | Bunker Hill 765.689.9411 Fax 765.473.5996 info@flowersleedyallen.com

Obituaries Evelyn May (Snethen) Denny, 96

Joan Margaret (Blue) Simons, 89

Evelyn May (Snethen) Denny passed away Friday, Dec. 10, 2021, at Blair Ridge nursing home under hospice care. She was born in Ross Township, in Clinton County, Indiana, May 14, 1925, to Elmer Ellsworth Snethen and Myrtle May Wingard. After the death of her mother at an early age, she was raised by her maternal grandparents on the family farm. She married George Denny May 16, 1943, in Logansport, Indiana. She has been a resident of Peru, Indiana, for the last 68 years.

She is survived by her children David (Shelley) Denny, Steve (Cindy) Denny, and Malita (James) Fry, eight grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by an infant son, George Denny Jr., her parents, her brother Charles Snethen, her granddaughter Kimberly Fry, and George Denny.

As a teenager she played violin in the school orchestra. She was a Cub Scout leader, and she was also a cook for several years for the N&W Dormitory. She will be remembered by her children and grandchildren for her love of tradition and family, her sense of humor and warm laugh, her colorful handmade quilts, her incredible green thumb, and the delicious popcorn ball treats and colorful Christmas ornaments she made during the holidays.

Until the last few weeks of her life, this remarkable woman, at age 96, lived in her own home with the help and support of her children and their spouses that lived close by, Steve and Cindy and Malita and Jim. A private family funeral service took place at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home Friday, Dec. 17, 2021, at 10 a.m., with pastor Jim Rairigh officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.

Joan Margaret (Blue) Simons, 89, of Peru passed away at 5:35 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021, at Blair Ridge Health Campus.

She was born Feb. 6, 1932, in Oak Park, Illinois, the daughter of Otto Greibling and Hanna Muller Hodgini. Joan married Max E. Simons and he preceded her in death Aug. 12, 1999.

Joan was a 1949 graduate of Peru High School and a retired Customer Service Representative for General Telephone. Her greatest joys in life were her family and her Roman Catholic faith where she was regular at weekly mass. She loved her family unconditionally and always made everyone she came in contact with feel extra special. Joan put forth extra effort to make every holiday unique for her grandchildren. She was an avid bridge player and in her younger days she was a bare back rider for Ringling Brothers Circus.

She is survived by her son Scott Blue of Bowling Green, Florida; daughters Connie Casale and her husband Michael of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, JoEllen Blue Peru, Susan Knisley and her husband Randy of Columbia City, Indiana, and Allison Hass and her husband Fred of Albion, Indiana; daughters-in-law Luann Blue Wendel of North Manchester, Indiana, and Peggy Blue of Goshen, Indiana; a sonin-law Michael Caley of Fort Wayne, Indiana; 14 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Max, sons William John Blue and Max David Blue, a daughter Carol Ann Caley and grandson Greg Caley.

A service celebrating the life of Joan Margaret Simons was held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 18, 2021, at St. Charles Catholic Church, 58 W. 5th St., Peru, with Rev. Gustavo Lopez officiating. Family and friends gathered from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Eikenberry-Eddy Funeral Home, 84 W. Main St., Peru.

There was a prayer service at 8 p.m., Friday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to St. Charles Catholic Church.

Cynthia Elaine Price, 73

Tana Rose (Fivecoate) Dingess, 69

Cynthia Elaine Price, 73, of Peru passed away at 5:20 p.m., Monday, Dec. 13, 2021, at Dukes Memorial Hospital.

She was born Aug. 26, 1948, at St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, Indiana. She graduated from Harrison High School, Evansville, Indiana, in 1966 and from DePauw University, School of Nursing, in 1970. She practiced nursing for 43 years, the last being as a hospice nurse for Guardian Angel Hospice.

She married Jeff Aug. 29, 1970.

They were married 51 years. She is survived by her husband, her children: Elizabeth and Drew; her grandchildren: Graham, Ian, Jake, Morgan, and George; mother-in-law Ann West and in laws: Jenni, Jim, and Janet; her mother Nancey DeVoe. She is also survived by her sisters, Rebecca and Molly; her brothers Kevin, Tim, Mike, and Dan. Being a part of two large families, she is also survived by her stepmother Cindi and her children Char, Cher, and Chad. She was predeceased by her father Milton DeVoe, Jr., and her mother Doris.

Those who know Cynthia, both family and her patients, recall her smile, her kindness, and her empathy. All of which are sorely needed in our world today. She will be missed.

A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating the life of Cynthia E. Price was held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, Dec. 17, 2021, at St. Charles Catholic Church, 58 W. 5th St., Peru with Rev. Adam Mauman officiating. Visitation was from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021, at the Eikenberry-Eddy Funeral Home, 84 W. Main St., Peru. There was a Prayer Service at 7 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made through the funeral home to St. Charles Catholic Church.

Tana Rose (Fivecoate) Dingess, 69, Fort Wayne, formerly of North Manchester, passed away Dec. 12, 2021, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

The daughter of Loren and Carolyn (Carl) Fivecoate, Tana was born March 20, 1952, in Peru, Indiana.

On Nov. 4, 1988, Tana married Jackie Ray Dingess and the two were married for 30 years before Jackie passed away Aug. 15, 2019.

During their time together, Tana worked at Eaton Controls for 35 years.

After Jackie’s passing, Tana moved to Fort Wayne so she could be closer to her grandchildren. She was a sweet, kind-hearted woman who loved attending her grandsons’ sporting events and spending time with them. Tana was skilled in the kitchen and could make anything, which her family always enjoyed.

She enjoyed relaxing by going shopping.

The memory of Tana Rose Dingess will be forever cherished by her daughter, Brandy (Tyler) Rash, Grabill, Indiana; sons, Stacy (Angie) Helton, Columbia City, Indiana, Jackie R. Dingess and Joshua Dingess, both of Laketon; brothers, Lonny (Sally) Fivecoate, Fort Wayne, Rick Fivecoate, and Larry (Mary Dingess) Fivecoate, both of Chili, Indiana; and four grandchildren. Tana was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jackie Ray Dingess; and sister-in-law, Dyanne Fivecoate.

Family and friends may call Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2021, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Fairview Cemetery, County Road 300 East and County Road 1000 North, Servia, Indiana. A graveside service will begin at the conclusion of calling. Pastor J.P. Freeman will be officiating.

The family of Tana Dingess has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.

Have questions about the current COVID-19 status?

Visit IN.gov

More obituaries can be found on Page 4

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THE PAPER

December 22, 2021

Obituaries Raymond Hugh Mosley, Jr., 26

Dorothy M. Webster, 93

Dorothy M. Webster, 93, of Peru passed away at 3:04 a.m., Monday, Dec. 14, 2021, at home.

Born Sept. 2, 1928, in Anderson, Indiana, she was the daughter of the late Harry and Grace (Reeves) Kocher.

On March 11, 1948, she married Robert A. Webster. He preceded her in death April 17, 2010.

Dorothy was formerly employed at Memcor Inc. in Peru.

She enjoyed reading, camping, and traveling with her late husband.

Survivors include her children, Gregory Webster (Lucretia) of Leiters Ford, Cindy Denny (Steve) of Peru and Jenny Daily (Larry) of Peru, sister, Alice Chambers of Muncie and grandchildren, Jeff Webster, Dawn Webster, Ted Webster, Rob Webster, Shaun Denny, Amber Cattin, AJ Denny, Ryan Daily and Travis Daily. She is also survived by 14 great grandchildren and two great great-grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by infant son, Rex Webster and one sister, Sharon Ross.

Services were at 1 p.m., Monday, Dec. 20, 2021, at Riverview Funeral Home, 421 W. Canal St., Peru, with visitation from 11 a.m. until the time of the service.

Burial followed at Ever Rest Memorial Park.

Dorothy’s online guestbook is available, and condolences can be shared at www.riverviewfhperu.com.

Miller first in 2021-22 school year to pass drone pilot certification

Raymond Hugh Mosley Jr., 26, passed away unexpectedly Dec. 11, 2021. He was born March 27,1995, to Teri Taylor and Raymond Mosley Sr. Raymond graduated from Peru High School in 2014. He was a loving and compassionate man, the kind of guy that would give you the shirt off his back. Raymond loved, and he loved hard. He wouldn't leave you without saying, "I love you!" and he was sure to let you know that he really meant it. He was always there with a warm compliment, just to put a smile on some-

Mosley; uncle, Justin Valle; and nephews, Zachery Correll and Cole Taylor, and nieces, Samantha (Hiles) Molsey and Amy Mosley.

Raymond is survived by his children, Skyla, Ryder, Emma-Jean, and Kenneth Mosley, parents, Teri Taylor (Evan) Von Uhl; and Raymond Sr (Keisha) Mosley; brothers, Joshua, Brendon, and Keagen Mosley, and Zane Featherstone; and his only sister, Ariauna Mosley; as well as uncles, Donald Mosley, Charles, Edward, Buzz, and Wallace Taylor; and aunts, Melissa Taylor, and Tammy (Jerry) Hiles; and nephews, Lien and Carsin Mosley; and many cousins, all of

whom he loved like brothers and sisters.

Visitation was from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 20, 2021, at McClain Funeral Home, Denver.

McClain Funeral Home, Denver, Indiana, has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.mcclainfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be directed towards the funeral home for final expenses and can be sent to PO Box 248, Denver, Indiana, 46926, or made through the website at www.mcclainfh.com with the link on his obituary page.

Community Calendar Every Monday 10:30 a.m. – Movers and Shakers, a music and movement program at the Peru Public Library. Ages 0-5.

Every Tuesday 10:30 a.m. – Story time at the Peru Public Library.

Noon-3 p.m. – Wanted – Senior Pinochle players are invited to play every Tuesday at the Miami County Senior Center, 661 E. Main Street, Peru. The cost is fifty cents. For more information, contact Annie Speth at 765-473-3209.

Every Thursday

Caitlyn Miller, a Junior at Peru High School, is in the Heatland Precision Agriculture class. Miller is the first student of the 2021-22 school year to pass the FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot certification.

one else’s face.

Raymond loved his four kids more than anything, and he was his happiest when spending time with them.

They were his world. Raymond liked to be out in nature: walking, hiking or just sitting out by the lake. He enjoyed mushroom, arrowhead, and deer hunting. He also liked to collect rocks and loved spending time with his family and friends.

Raymond is preceded in death by his grandparents, Charles and Virginia Taylor, Delores and Larry Titus; and Donald Mosley, Sr.; aunt, Tressa

4:30 p.m. – Lego Club at the Peru Public Library.

Every third Thursday each month 4:30 p.m. – American Girl Club at the Peru Public

Library.

Every Friday and Saturday 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

– Get your picture taken with Santa and drop off your letter to Santa.

Every Sunday 2 p.m. –to 4 p.m. Get your picture taken with Santa and drop off your letter to Santa.

Dec. 22 - Jan 2 Lights in the Airpark at Grissom Air Museum. Thursdays through Sundays, 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, call 765-689-8011 or email direc-

tor@grissomairmuseum.com.

Dec. 24 7 p.m. – Joy to the World – Christmas Eve at Main Street United Methodist Church, 81 W Main Street, Peru. Celebrate the birth of Christ with family, friends, in-

struments of music, songs, candle lights, comfort, and joy.

Dec. 31 7 p.m. - Ring in 2022 with a bang at the Riverview Event Center, 421 W. Canal Street, Peru. Attendees must be 21 years of age and older.

A photo ID is required. Guests

will enjoy a dinner served at 7:30 p.m., and a complimentary toast (wine or champagne) served at midnight! This is a semi-formal dress event.

There will be fireworks to ring in 2022. All proceeds from this event will benefit the Light Up! Peru fund. For costs and ticket information, go online to: www.eventbrite. com.

If you have an upcoming event you would like the public to know about, send it to: mboswell@thepaperofmiami.co m.

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THE PAPER

December 22, 2021

Sports Local Sports Calendar North Miami Dec. 28 Noon – Girls Varsity Basketball/Miami County Tournament – Home 2 p.m. – Girls Varsity Basketball/Miami County Tournament – Home 6 p.m. – Boys Varsity Basketball/Miami County Tournament – Home 8 p.m. – Boys Varsity Basketball/Miami

County Tournament – Home Dec. 29 Noon – Girls Varsity Basketball/Miami County Tournament – Home 2 p.m. – Boys Varsity Basketball/Miami County Tournament – Home 6 p.m. – Girls Varsity Basketball/Miami County Tournament – Home 8 p.m. – Boys Varsity

Basketball/Miami County Tournament – Home Maconaquah Dec. 28 9 a.m. – Boys Junior Varsity Basketball vs. Caston Junior Varsity Tournament

10 a.m. – Boys Junior Varsity, Varsity and Coed Wrestling @ Crawley Center/Willie Holiday Duals Noon – Girls Varsity Basketball Holiday Tournament @ North Miami Middle/High School

6 p.m. – Boys Varsity Basketball Holiday Tournament @ North Miami Middle/High School

ley Center Willie Holiday Duals Noon – Girls Varsity Basketball Holiday Tournament @ North Miami Middle/High School Noon – Boys Varsity Basketball Holiday Tournament @ North Miami Middle/High School Peru

Dec. 29 9 a.m. – Boys Junior Varsity, Varsity and Coed Wrestling @ Craw-

Dec. 28 10:30 a.m. – Boys Junior Varsity Basketball Round

Robin Noon – Girls Varsity Basketball Holiday Tournament Noon – Boys Varsity Basketball Holiday Tournament Dec. 29 10 a.m. – Varsity Wrestling – Al Smith @ Mishawaka High School Noon – Girls Varsity Basketball Holiday Tournament Noon – Boys Varsity Basketball Holiday Tournament

Mac Girls Varsity Swim team beats Wabash 148 – 17

By Janet McManus The girls had a great meet tonight.

They did a great job and 47% of their times were a PR! I can’t be more proud of them, they continue to work hard in practice to prepare of TRC! In the 200 IM, the girls team of Tee-

gardin, Heath, Winegardner, and Dornich placed first followed by Jordan, Schoettmer, Loshnowsky, and Tyra placing second.

The 200 free was a 1,2,3 sweep from Hannah Montgomery, Nevy Sebastian, and Kathryn Rodkey. In the IM, Teegardin, Winegardner, and

Schoettmer followed to also place 1,2,3. Thea Tyra placed first, Annie Isenburg placed second, and Nele Kohls placed fourth. Brionna Jernagan placed 1st and Aubrey placed third in diving. Heath, Winegardner, and Dornich placed 1.2.3 in the 100 fly as well as Isen-

burg, Loshnowsky, and Jordan placing 1,2,3 in the 100 free.

Sebastian, Hannah Montgomery, and Burnett placed 1,2,3 in the 500 free.

In the 200 free relay the team of Dornich, Heath, Sebastian, and Hannah Montgomery placed first followed by the team of Isenburg, Rodkey, Tyra, and

Jordan placing second. In the 100 back, Teegardin, Loshnowsky, and Burnett placed 1,2,3. Heath, Schoettmer, and Rodkey placed 1,2,3 in the 100 breaststroke. The 400 free relay team of Sebastian, Loshnowsky, Montgomery, and Dornich placed first followed by

the team of Isenburg, Winegardner, Jordan, and Teegardin placing second.

Swimmers of the meet were Antonia Dornich and Nevy Sebastian. Antonia swam some new events and did an amazing job, she continues to surprise me and I love that she is such a versatile swimmer.

Nevy Sebastian swims the 500 for the first time and got a really great time! I appreciate her stepping up to swim it and love that I can count on her when the team needs it!

We will swim at home with Rochester on Jan. 6 for our next meet.

Braves Boys Varsity Basketball defeats Tipton 74-66

By Tim Maiben We played a good Tipton team tonight and was able to win in exciting fashion. The

storyline was setup

by Tipton jumping out to a 21-0 lead on us in just 4 minutes of play.

We couldn’t keep them in front of us,

and they were feeding off of their momentum. After our second timeout at the 3:40 mark, we finally responded with a 12-3 run to

close out the quarter.

We didn’t change up our defense. We didn’t run a different offense or plays.

We hit a couple of shots and started playing more sound defense. With a couple quick baskets in transition, we headed into half with a 2-pt. lead.

Our shooting improved quite a bit in the second half, and we were able to answer any run Tipton put together.

It was definitely a game of runs and momentum although we never gave up the lead once we got it.

Brayden Betzner led us in scoring with 30 pts. Hayden Maiben had 27 pts, Josiah Ball 10 pts, Bauer Maple 6 pts, & Trace Armstrong 1 pt. Trace’s impact on this game was huge. He was able to shut down their

leading scoring for most of the game. #21 for Tipton usually scores 22 pts per game, and he only had six at halftime. He also aver-

ages six offensive rebounds a game, and he had zero at halftime. Bauer Maple & Hayden Maiben had 4 and 3 assists, respec-

tively. Josiah Ball had seven rebounds, Maple 6 rebounds, Maiben 4 rebounds, & Betzner 3 rebounds.

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THE PAPER

December 22, 2021

Police Reports Nov. 29 Officers responded to the area of 1069 N Lincoln St, Peru in reference to a physical domestic. This is an ongoing investigation.

A single vehicle car vs. deer crash occurred at E 500 S and S Strawtown Pike, Peru. No injuries were reported. A state crash report was submitted.

Nov. 30 A vehicle was reported at N U.S. 31 and W 1250 N, Macy.

Harassment was reported at 1104 W 200 N, Miami County Jail, Peru.

An invasion of privacy was reported at 45014 Little Rock CT, Peru.

A traffic accident with damage was reported at 2354 S St. Rd. 19, Peru.

An overdose/poi-

soning was reported at 103 E Marion St, Circle K, Converse.

A single vehicle car vs. deer crash occurred at E 400 S and S St Rd. 19, Peru. No injuries were reported. A state crash report was submitted.

Officers were dispatched to the area of 2642 S Bus. 31, Best Western Circus City Inn, Peru, in reference to a single vehicle accident. No injuries were reported. A state crash report was submitted.

Officers assisted City officers at 526 W Seventh St, Peru with an overdose.

Officers attempted to locate a wanted person at 162 N Grant St, Peru.

A juvenile problem was reported at 3242 W St. Rd. 18, Kokomo.

Indiana State Police handled the call.

A controlled sub-

stance problem was reported at 1708 W Golden Hills Dr, Peru.

Dec. 1 A traffic accident with damage was reported at S U.S. 31 and S Bus. 31, Peru.

A possible driving under the influence case was reported at N 500 W and W U.S. 24, Peru.

Officers at 4115 S Strawtown Pike, Peru assisted Indiana State Police with a crash investigation.

A single vehicle accident was reported at S Bus. 31 and S. U.S. 31, Peru. No injuries were reported.

A state crash report was completed.

Officers responded to the area of 1708 Golden Hills Dr, Peru in reference to a male trespassing at the residence. Male was removed from the property.

A two-vehicle crash was reported at 2598 S Bus. 31, Pizza Quik, Peru. No injuries were reported. A state crash report was submitted.

A possible driving under the influence case was reported at N U.S. 31 and W 1600 N, Rochester. This was unable to be located.

Dec. 3 A wanted person was reported at 214 Cherokee CT, Peru.

This was unable to be located.

A suspicious person or vehicle was reported at 435 N Elm St, Bunker Hill. All checked okay.

A traffic accident with damage was reported at 76 W Harrison St, Beecher’s Garage, Denver. Officers checked the area but was unable to locate any signs of an accident.

A male subject at 1308 W 1000 N, Deedsville, attempted to jump in front of vehicle. Male was transported to Dukes Memorial Hospital.

Officers at 1846 Warhawk Rd, Peru spoke with a woman who had question about a civil matter.

Officers spoke with a complainant at 94 S Emmons St, DeAngelo’s Pizza, Denver, who advised that a juvenile is driving a pickup and doing doughnuts while flinging rocks near vehicles.

Choking was reported at 1804 S 50 W, Peru. Medics on scene advised officers to disregard.

A suspicious package or item was reported at 314 E Washington Ave, Prescott Green, Apt. 29, Bunker Hill. Advised the door frame was changed. Nothing missing or broken.

A traffic accident with damage was reported at S U.S. 31 and W St. Rd. 218, Peru.

Officers at 13547 S Clover CT, Kokomo spoke with father and juvenile regarding behavior issues.

A suspicious person or vehicle was reported at 4901 W St. Rd. 16, Denver. Officers checked the area.

Unable to locate.

A controlled substance problem was reported at 1134 Barksdale Ave, Peru.

Report of drug manufacturing in the residence. Officer was unable to locate any evidence of such activity.

Dec. 6 A front door was left ajar at 105 S Jefferson St, Converse.

No one was inside.

Locked front door and exited out the rear.

Unsecure premises were reported at N Constellation St and W Kittyhawk Ave, Peru.

A female at 428 W 600 N, Peru called advising husband disorderly. Both male and female have dementia. Called daughter, Karen, who lives next door. She came over to assist them.

Officers at 2918 S Hilltop Dr, Apt. 4, Peru assisted DCS with removal of two children.

Multiple vehicles were parked in no parking at 35032 Altus CT, Peru. All had out of county addresses.

One vehicle tagged with no plate. Eagles Pointe Office contacted reference the parking in no parking complaint.

A semi was all over the road at W Broadway St. and S U.S. 31, Bunker Hill. Peru Police Department stopped the vehicle.

Everything checked okay.

Officers at 2051 W Matador St, Country Cottage Apartments, Apt. 13, Peru spoke with family reference disorderly children.

An animal problem was reported at 4273 W 1050 N, Macy. Unable to locate animal in field or in the road.

A tree across the road at N 300 E & E 200 N, Peru was removed by citizen.

A single vehicle crash was reported at W 1500 N & N 100 W. No injuries were reported. A state crash report was submitted.

A suspicious vehicle was reported at 2934 S 300 W, Woodland Hills Mobile Home Park, Peru. Unable to locate suspicious vehicle.

A roadkill permit was issued at 1663 W 1000 N, Macy.

Dec. 7 A traffic accident with injuries was reported at S 300 W and S U.S. 31, Peru.

A traffic accident with injuries was reported at S Bus. 31 and S 200 W, Peru.

A caller at 1468 N 400 W, Peru advised subjects scanned his

information from inside his safe. Caller possible 10-96.

A female at 2934 S 300 W, Lot 170, Woodland Hills Mobile Home Park, Peru advised the male doesn't live there and wasn't there. Female stated they did child exchange and he left.

Park manager wants male trespassed from park. Unable to locate male.

A semi driver at W Blair Pike Rd. and North U.S. 31, Peru was checking his semi on side of road when he located a female’s wallet.

Officers took a report of a damaged mailbox at 1375 W 1500 N, Akron. It was determined to be from a vehicle accident the previous night.

A possible case of driving under the influence was reported at N U.S. 31 and W U.S. 24, Peru.

A missing person was reported at 4156 N Mexico Rd, Mexico.

A runaway juvenile was reported at 3101 S 400 E, Peru.

Officers at 195 E Commerce St, Macy Christian Church, Macy, took a report of damage to a vehicle and an altercation taking place about the damage. It was determined to be a civil issue.

A suspicious person or vehicle was reported at 531 E 500 S, Salem Christian Church, Peru.

7

THE PAPER

December 22, 2021

2021

Celebration of Lights Contest

Miami County homes, businesses in decorating contest The Paper of Miami County and Light Up! Peru, are proud to announce the entrants in the second annual Celebration of Lights contest.

The following addresses are officially entered and ready to be viewed. Here is how it works: Drive to each home/business

to view the light displays and choose your favorite from each category (home/business). Compose a new text message to 877-7294471. Type the word “lights” and send the message. The sender will be prompted to vote for their favorite house dis-

play first. Then the voter will be asked to choose their favorite business. That completes the voting process.

Only one vote per phone number will be allowed. The contest this year is sponsored by Black's Lawn and Maintenance in Peru.

Call 765-469-0699

for your snow removal needs.

Addresses are in Peru unless otherwise labeled.

Voting ends Dec. 22 at 11:59 p.m.

Good luck to all of our contestants.

House competition entries are: A. 194 S. Elm Street, (Bunker Hill) B. 3886 N. Fil-

more Street, (Mexico) C. 2796 S. Wallick Road D. 126 W. 2nd Street F. 160 Madison Avenue G. 255 W. Main Street H. 1445 N 300 E I. 515 W. 11th Street J. 578 W. 6th Street K. 2688 W 500 S L. 8730 S 250 W

(Bunker Hill) M. 568 E. 3rd Street Business competition entries are: E. DeRozier's Bakery, 61 North Broadway Street N. 2 Days Boutique, 1 South Broadway 0. Lillian and Elle Belle Boutique, 19 East Main P. GJ's Home

and Office Furniture, 21 East Main Q. The Glass Grammy, 7 South Broadway Street R. Gigi's Design Works, 30 West Second Street Take the family out and enjoy the beauty.

8

By Laura Kurella While we are extremely diverse in our cultures, the one thread that seems to bind us all together is the tradition of toasting.

No matter where you are you will likely hear, “Cheers” “to your health” “bottoms up” or something to that effect, whenever a glass is being raised.

Toasting is believed to go back to the Greeks who liked to spike drinks with poison, and it’s thought that the making of a toast was code for it being safe to drink.

The clinking of the glasses in a toast is also thought to be inspired by the Greeks proclivity for poisonings, with the idea that it afforded the opportunity to slosh some of the poison into the offender’s glass and take them with you. However, there is also a parallel theory that the clinking of glasses was/is done to drive out any evil spirits believed to be lurking in the liquor, and making it safer to drink.

Perhaps this is where they got the idea to refer to alcohol as spirits!

Given that the Danish used to cut the throats of Englishmen right as they would tip their heads back to drink, it is believed that the threat of death looming is what inspired the expression of drinking to one's health, as well.

Circling around to old Roman practices, I found that the term “toasting” comes from their practice of placing a piece of burnt bread into the bottom of a goblet as a way to help mellow the taste of the wine. In Old England it became a standard practice to drink until you got to the bread, so

THE PAPER

December 22, 2021

Christmas Cheer!

perhaps the bread also soaked up things you didn’t want to drink!

The custom of toasting continues to this day, and in many places around the world.

In China they say, “kong chien;” in Japan “kampai,” and “Salud” if you’re in Spain.

My father would toast with, “Na Zdrowie” which is Polish for “To your health!” while Swedish friends said, “Skål” and German relatives said, “Prost!”

Personally, I think it’s nice that we have something that unites us all in a positive, uplifting way. Something simple yet so pleasant, heart-warming, and most importantly, kind.

Let us lift our glasses this year and toast to a happier, healthier, kinder future for us all.

Here now is a smattering of seasonal favorites to fill your glass courtesy of McCormick.

Merry Christmas, and God bless you!

Gingerbread Lattes The warm flavors of ginger, cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg spice up your mug while pure vanilla extract, brown sugar, and molasses add a special sweetness to this warm and inviting Christmas drink for all ages!

Prep time: 5 minutes; Cook time: 5 minutes; Total time: 10 minutes; Yield: 3 servings 2 cups whole milk 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar 2 tablespoons molasses 1 teaspoon McCormick® Gingerbread Spice 1/2 teaspoon McCormick® All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract 1 cup strong brewed coffee Bring all ingredients, except coffee, to simmer in medium saucepan

on medium heat, stirring to dissolve sugar. Stir in coffee with wire whisk until frothy. Pour into mugs. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with additional gingerbread spice, if desired.

Serve immediately.

Warm Spiced Cranberry Punch Bring in the holiday cheer with this sweet, spicy aroma and seasonal colored punch for all ages.

Prep time: 5 minutes; Cook time: 30 minutes; Total time: 35 minutes; Yield: 13 servings 1/2 cup sugar 64 ounces cranberry juice cocktail 12 ounces) frozen lemonade concentrate 4 cups water 3 McCormick® Cinnamon Sticks 8 McCormick® Whole Cloves 1 teaspoon McCormick® Ground Allspice 1/4 teaspoon McCormick® Ground Ginger 1/4 teaspoon McCormick® Ground Nutmeg Mix all ingredients in 6- to 8-quart saucepot. Simmer 30 minutes or until hot. Remove whole spices before serving. Serve warm or refrigerate to serve cold. Garnish with orange slices, if desired.

Easy “No Cook” Eggnog This rich and creamy eggnog requires absolutely “no cooking,” and this “no-fail” recipe can be prepared in less than 5 minutes!

Prep time: 5 minutes; Total time: 5 minutes; Yield: 8 (4 oz.) servings 1 1/2 cups half-andhalf 1 cup egg substitute 1 cup vanilla ice cream 2 tablespoons sugar 1 tablespoon McCormick® All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract 1/2 teaspoon McCormick® Ground Nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon Mc-

Toasting is believed to go back to the Greeks who liked to spike drinks with poison, and it’s thought that the making of a toast was code for it being safe to drink.

Cormick® Rum Extract with other natural flavors Place all ingredients in blender container; cover. Blend 1 minute or until well mixed. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Red Velvet Hot Chocolate Get cozy with a mug of this rich red velvet-tinted hot chocolate!

Prep time: 5 minutes; Cook time: 5 minutes; Total time: 10 minutes; Yield: 5 servings 4 cups whole milk 1/4 cup granulated sugar 10 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate, coarsely chopped

2 teaspoons McCormick® Red Food Color 1 teaspoon McCormick® All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract CREAM 1/2 cup heavy cream 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar 1/2 teaspoon McCormick® All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract To make hot chocolate: Place milk and granulated sugar in medium saucepan.

Bring to simmer on medium heat, stirring to dissolve sugar. Remove from heat. Stir in chocolate with wire whisk until melted.

Stir in food color and vanilla. Pour into serving cups.

Serve with marshmallows and Vanilla Whipped Cream, if desired.

To make cream: Beat heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla in medium bowl with electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.

Gingered Cranberry Margarita Add a holiday twist to the margarita by using cranberry and orange juices instead of lime juice.

Prep time: 5 minutes; Total time: 5 minutes; Yield: 2 servings 1/2 cup sugar 1 1/4 teaspoons McCormick Gourmet™ Organic Ground

Ginger, divided 1 cup cranberry juice 1/4 cup orange juice 2 ounces tequila 1-ounce orange-flavored liqueur, such as Triple Sec Mix sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of the ginger on a small plate.

Wet rims martini glasses with water.

Dip rims of glasses into sugar mixture to lightly coat. Fill cocktail shaker half full with ice. Add juices, tequila, orange-flavored liqueur and remaining 1 teaspoon ginger; shake until well mixed and chilled. Strain into 2 beverage glasses.

Garnish as desired.

Serve immediately.