available.Inaccordance with past economic development procedures developed by the town, the town does anticipate monies in existence that have accumulated as part of the TIF area encompassing Oakwood Resort and/or Oakwood Park, shall be reserved for necessary improvements within the park in accordance with Indiana law.
Kosciusko County Highway Department Superintendent Steve Moriarty opened the two bids the county received for the roadwork, which will be completed with the county relying on an Indiana Department of Transportation Community Crossings Matching Grant.
Bill Pipp, conservancy chairman, explained Mikel’s election was uncontested. In addition to being nominated by Earnst, the conservancy received five letters from free holders in the district in support of Mikel. Mikel will serve on the conservancy board for a four-year term.
tant, explained since the district is new, there wasn’t much to reportThison.will be the first year the conservancy will be receiving tax distributions. Pipp noted the conservancy is expected to receive approximately $169,000 in its general fund, half distributed in June and half distributed in December.Inits cumulative fund, the conservancy is expected to receive a $454,000, also in two distributions. The approximate cost of the dike repair is approximately $554,000.Rowenoted the conservancy district will receive $25,000 more than anticipated due to an increase in the assessed value of real estate within the conservancy Pippdistrict.projected the dike project could be completed this year. Once it’s complete, the conservancy would re-evaluate the tax
Potential Sewer District
The bids were $1,410,939 from
The third race for the Democrat party will be that of the nomination for U.S. Rep. 3rd District. Candidates include Phillip Beachy, Aaron (A.J.) Calkins, Tommy Schrader and Gary L. Snyder. The winner of the primary will face Re-
In addition to the three Wawasee students, Nicole Ziemek, Tippecanoe Valley High School, was recognized as being the top high school soil judger.Other awards announced included: Indiana River Friendly Farmer, Conservation Education and Conser-
Continued on page 2 Continued on page 2
Ken Jones with Jones, Petrie and Rafinski engineering firm updated the commissioners. He said some people are interested in possibly having one on the east side of Webster Lake.
The council tabled several task orders presented by Commonwealth Engineering since the council didn’t have enough information to act and there were questions regarding the orders.
In the department reports, David Wilkinson, town manager, reported he received two quotes regarding updating the town’s comprehensive plan. After some discussion with the council, Wilkinson said he
Council addressing town traffic issues
The road work includes repairs on Old SR 15 from Waubee Road at Milford to Van Buren Street in Leesburg. It also includes work on Old SR 30 from SR 13 to East County Line.
Turkey Creek Conservancy Board swears in newest member
See Page 7Inside See Public Notices On Page 9 Final Flight Page 6
The resolution further states the town will construct a new lift station to serve along with a new forced main to serve the area within and around Oakwood Park and the Lakeside Drive area. Funds for such projects shall not come from the fund containing monies reserved for development within the relevant tax increment finance
The Democrats will have several contested races in the May primary according to ballot information with the Indiana Secretary of State’s Election Commission.
A new regional sewer district might be formed in the county.
A decision on the bids was tabled for further discussion.
Jones noted the other sewer disContinued on page 2
A preliminary step for making repairs on sections of Old SR 15 south of Milford and Old SR 30 was made at the Kosciusko County Commissioners meeting Tuesday, Feb. 15.
David Hollenbeck, attorney for the conservancy, explained the process of the dike project, which includes acquiring permits and easements, having the Indiana Department of Natural Resources approve the repair plan. Once the DNR approves and costs are established, the conservancy will hold a public meeting to give the public an opportunity to review the plan. After the public meeting competitive bidding can take place.For the dike project, a 30-foot easement has been granted by the affected property owners.
“It is the very last area of Webster Lake that does not have a sewer,” he said. The households to be served total more than 180.
$1.50 One UnderNationGod www.the-papers.com Covering Milford, Syracuse & North Webster, IndianaWednesday, February 16, 2022
publican challenger U.S. Rep. Jim Banks. The 3rd District includes Tippecanoe and Turkey Creek townships.DeeM.Moore will be unopposed in the primary to fill the Democrat challenger position for State Rep. District 22 in the November election. District 22 includes Jefferson, Plain and Van Buren townships. The only other Democrat candidate on the local ballot will be Gaynor R. Worden for Plain Township Advisory Board.
Phend and Brown of Milford and $1,547,369 from Brooks Construction of Fort Wayne.
Three Wawasee High School students were honored by the Kosciusko County Soil and Water Conservation District during its 65th annual meeting Tuesday, Feb. 15. Cade Beer, Jared Beer and Justin Mullet were recognized as being the top high school soil judgers in the county in 2021.
The annual meeting was held virtually, with 18 people participating.
Three Wawasee students recognized at SWCD 65th annual Zoom meeting
Police Chief Jim Layne was instructed to have the new ordinance ready to sign at the March council meeting.Thecouncil approved resolution 2022-01 regarding the Oakwood housing project. The resolution states the town will commence and complete a water improvement project known as the Lakeside Drive Water Loop, which is needed to eliminate a dead-end water main, and which will increase water quality for all residents as a whole, particularly for houses in the vicinity of Lakeside Drive.
Syracuse Town Council approved revising resolution 8-75 which would change the intersection of Oak Street and Polywood Way from a four-way stop to a two-way stop during its monthly meeting Tuesday night, Feb. 15.
The resolution further states the town anticipates supporting any reasonable tax abatement requests made by developers of the Oakwood Resort area, when they are otherwise eligible for tax abatement in accordance with applicable provisions of Indiana law.
Pipp explained the dike project is the first official project for the conservancy. The repair of the water control device in Crosson Mill Park was done in collaboration with the Syracuse Town Council, Wawasee Property Owners Association, Syracuse Lake Association and private donations.
OthersServing
Haneefah Khaaliq, Valerie McCray and Thomas M. McDermott Jr., have filed to win the candidacy for the U.S. Senate race. The winner will match up against the Republican winner, either Danny Niederberger or Sen. Todd Young in ThereNovember.will also be a race for the
Jeff Rowe, from Baker Tilly, the conservancy’s financial consul-
After the annual meeting, the conservancy moved into its first quarterly meeting. The conservancy is required to meet quarterly per state law.
U.S. Rep. 2nd District nomination. Stephen Kurant and Paul D. Steury have filed to that nomination and will face U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski in November. The 2nd District includes Jefferson, Plain and Van Buren townships.
Continued on page 3 SUBSCRIBE!!! Clip the form below, complete with your information, enclose payment and mail to: ((PhoneAddress__Name____________________________________________City&State___________________________Zip_______)ThisIsANewSubscription()ThisIsARenewalOn-LineSubscriptionOnly)6Months...................$1775()12Months$3225 10% Discount To Senior Citizens (65 Or Older) Reg. Price ( ) In Kosciusko County ................... $4300 ( ) $3870 ( ) Outside Kosciusko County .......... $5400 ( ) $4860 ( ) Out Of State $6400 ( ) $5760 Senior Discount Mail To: The Mail-Journal, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542-0188 Please include check or money order.
County opens bids for two road projects, one south of Milford
district, but shall be paid for with existing utility funds, economic development income tax funds or other grants or sources of funding
In its first annual meeting held Saturday, Feb. 12, the Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District swore in Todd Mikel as a new board member. Mikel will represent District 1 of the conservancy which was represented by John Earnst before he moved out of the area.
Democrats to have several contested races
In the Syracuse Redevelopment
• Approved two rezoning recommendations from the APC. Richard and Kathy Schlipf had received approval from the APC to rezone prop-
Sewer district customers encouraged to sign agreement or expect extra costs
Syracuse Park Board hears update on new ballfield, trees
Mike Long was the recipient of the River Friendly Farmer Award. This award recognizes farmers who implement conservation practices that protect and enhance Indiana’s rivers, lakes, and streams. The award is based on nine criteria that rate a farmer’s conservation practices including erosion control, as well as nutrient and pest management.
Each carving was sponsored by a local business, with carvers receiving
after Steve Snyder, attorney for Patona Bay, presented a modification to the proposed definitions for EDU analysis. Snyder stated this is a “unique area,” and there needs to be reasonable and equitable billing. The definitions Snyder presented addresses the seasonal uses in the area. “These are our thoughts on how to address those seasonal issues.”During other business a project update was provided by Steve Henschen, JPR engineer, which included notation what permits had been submitted and what permits would not be needed. Henschen also reviewed the $5.199 million engineering agreement required by the USDA for the loan.
The police department had to deal with semi trucks getting stuck on the Oak Street crossing due to last week’s snowstorm. Layne said police were on scene one day for three hours and another day for two hours for stuck semi-trucks. The trucks got stuck after going off the road and not on the railroad crossing, so there was no danger of a truck/train accident.
JPR staff will continue manning the district office, located in the North Webster Community Center, from 9 a.m. To 4 p.m. Fridays through the end of March. District customers can also contact the office at (574) 226-8468 or email tippy-chapman@jpr1source.com with questions.Thenext meeting of the district will be at 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 14, in the community center’s banquet hall.
“Kosciusko SWCD runs one of the most diverse and comprehensive programs in the state,” commented SWCD chairman David Ransbottom. “We are fortunate to have a committed board, skilled staff and excellent partners in a community that embraces great conservation work. We look forward to continued successes in the future.”
Three Wawasee
He told the council he heard very few complaints and lots of compliments. One resident even stopped a plow driver and sent a box of cookies for the crews with him.
Members of the Tippecanoe Township Advisory Board gathered with Township Trustee Chris Francis Wednesday evening, Feb. 9, to conduct its first meeting that didn’t also include the North Webster Fire Department.Thenewly established Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory met the previous evening prior to the regular meeting of the North Webster Town Council, as previously prescribed. Next month, and in all odd-numbered months, the TTFT will meet prior to the township advisory board’s meeting.To open the evening’s meeting, Francis presented the board with resolution 2022-1, which would allow the township to continue toward its previously agreed upon purchase of the former North Webster theater building. The building has been deemed unrepairable, and the township intends to tear it down once the purchase is complete.
Time is slowly running out for residents in the Tippecanoe & Chapman Lakes Regional Sewer District to sign and return easement agreements. “The consequence of not responding or ignoring the agreement will cause hardship and heartburn in the end,” said Andy Boxberger, attorney for the district.
He said the cost to complete the project right now is about $4.4 million. Commissioners approval is needed as part of the district creation process.Commissioners didn’t make a decisionInTuesday.otherbusiness, the commissioners:• Were introduced to county’s
Continued from page 1
He said water is slowly poured into horizontal rectangular vats and frozen from the bottom up. Two pumps keep the water constantly circulating to avoid formation of air bubbles, which cloud the ice. The carving process scratches the ice surface, but the final work of art can be rendered clear again with a quick application of heat from a propane torch.Though the artwork itself may last only a few days, the event was otherwise memorialized in two ways. Salyer toured the sidewalk gallery, taking Facebook photos of the sculptures and their creators, and Andrew Palladino of DreamOn Studios in Warsaw captured video footage for promotional material for the Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
erty from public use to agricultural at CR 425W and CR 1000N, west of Milford. The Schlipfs purchased an old church building around 2003 and remodeled part of it as a single family home, but were not aware rezoning was required. The remaining space in the old church will be rented out.
new Community Coordinator Amy Roe. Her position was created via the county receiving a Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program grant. Roe’s job is to help the county and its towns and cities improve using American Rescue Plan Act funds and other monetary sources.
Council addressing
The seventh annual Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament will be Saturday, March 12, at Syracuse Community Center. Doors open at 9 a.m. and play begins at 10 a.m. To pre-register, email reviewingwasprovesaidgasedtrylongsons,itermowers.Johnincludeboardchuresdiscussed.ofweek.isworkpaintingSyracuseerickleffler@gmail.com.CommunityCenter’sprojecthasstarted.InteriorbeganlastweekandoneroomscheduledtobecompletedthisThegymwillbethelastpartthebuildingtobepainted.AmowerforthenewballfieldwasAvarietyofmowerbro-werepassedaroundforparkmemberstoreview.MowerszeroturnmowersandToro,Deere,HustlerandVentracParkboardmemberssaidamow-thatisversatilewouldbegoodascouldbeusedforavarietyofrea-suchassnowremoval.“Itwouldbegreatforusintheterm,”saidJonsson.“I’dliketoitfirst.”Agasordieselmowerwasdebat-withmostmembersvyingforaone.“Wedon’tneedadieselone,”PresidentPaulNewcomer.Theboarddidnot,however,ap-amoweratthemeeting.HenryWard’spavilionprojectalsodiscussed.Anarchitectistheworksoacomposite
A tentative closing scheduled was noted with an estimated closing on the project as early as June or as late as August. The construction will take 18 months.
An octet of intrepid artisans braved a clear but bone-chilling midday to ply their ice carving skills during the 2022 Uptown Syracuse Winter Wonderland of Ice Festival Saturday, Feb. 12, an annual event organized and sponsored by the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce.The carvers each took on two of the 16 sponsored 300-pound blocks of ice shipped in by City’s Pure Ice Inc. of La Porte. The blocks were distributed along the sidewalks in front of businesses for a block in every direction from the intersection of Huntington and Main streets.
This year’s Conservation Education Award went to a school, for a project that made a difference in their community. Jefferson Elementary fourth and sixth grade students took action to lower E.coli levels in nearby Cherry Creek. Students conducted water tests, did research, and made presentations to lobby for pet waste stations along the creek. They also created educational posters and brochures to educate the public about picking up pet waste. This turned into a community effort involving the Soil and Water Conservation District, The Watershed Foundation, and the Town of Winona Lake. Subsequent testing revealed E.coli levels dropped significantly.
The current design shows the district’s system ending 200 feet north of a proposed development. The extension will provide sewer service to the proposed Summer Breeze residential development once the proposed four residences are built. The line was originally not extended due to the property beingJimundeveloped.Anderson, manager for Wacky Premier Properties LLC., presented the request. It was noted the preliminary plat has been submitted to the county planning commission. However, because the lots are not large enough for individual septic systems, connection to the regional sewer district is necessary for final plat approval. This property was purchased from the Indiana University Foundation, which had been gifted to them from the Arnolt family. The previous home on the property was torn down due to environmental issues.
Both will serve three-year terms.
Continued page 1
and the town’s department heads could move forward and refresh the town’s comprehensive plan on their own.In the police report Jim Layne said he received a complaint on Pollard Street regarding traffic leaving Polywood and making its way to Main Street. Layne recommended a stop sign at Oak Street to slow people down.
$100 for each block rendered into a piece of art relevant to the respective business. They commenced their work at 10 a.m. and were finished by earlySponsorsafternoon.were Bowen Center, Cafe Liefde, Crossroads Bank, Kelly Jae’s Lakeside, Main Channel Marina, Mohawk Pier & Lift, My Red Moon, National Fidelity Title, Northwest Bank, Peterson’s Fish, Pro Wake Watersports, RE/MAX Partners, Socks Marina, Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce, The Papers Inc. and Track & Channel Bait & Tackle.
Chad Jonsson, park superintendent, reported the spring indoor garage sale set for March 5 is completely sold out. The Princess Parties set for March 19 still have openings. Ariel will be at the spring Princess Parties.
County opens bids
North Second Street in Oswego and add one grinder pump.
The interior of the Syracuse Community Center is being painted and will look nice when it’s complete.Jonsson gave an update on the ballpark saying electric and plumbing has been roughed in. Insulation is starting to be installed. The playground equipment and siding for the buildings have been delivered.
• Paul and Kelley Faler had received approval to rezone ground from commercial to residential on Hatchery Road. The property is located near the public access to Lake Wawasee and near the old fish hatchery property. The Falers want to put two houses on the property, but were encouraged to stop by the planning office first to talk about setbacks to see if two houses will fit on the
Lursen.Aprincess party is March 19; registration is now open. To register, call (574) 457-3440.
An indoor garage sale is from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 5, at the community center. The sign-up list is full, but there’s a waiting list, said
Continued from page 1
Theproperty.commissioners next meeting is 9 a.m. Tuesday, March 1, at the Kosciusko County Courthouse.
the Tippecanoe River. Outdoor programs for students increased, with more than 100 classes of nearly 5,300 students participating. The district also successfully coordinated its sixth Master Naturalist class, showcasing several natural areas in the Ryancounty.Martin, secretary/treasurer, provided a financial report.
Mark Aurich, public works superintendent, complimented all three crews on the hours and work they put in during the recent snowstorm. Aurich said it was some of the messiest snow he’s ever pushed with a plow.
at Veteran’s Memorial Park at Crosson Mill was also discussed. Signs, such as “fish at your own risk,” “stay off the dam” and “no swimming or wading,” were also debated by park board members. Jonsson said there is time to review the signs before finally approving them.
Before the purchase can be made, however, the township must get two independent and unbiased appraisals of the building’s fair market value within the next 30 days, which is
The new ballfield, tree removals, a new mower and other park project updates were discussed at Syracuse Parks and Recreation Board meeting Monday night, Feb. 14.
ent blocks, which measure 40 inches by 20 inches, with a thickness of 12 to 15 inches, are made.
“It was a good year for the district,” Martin stated, adding there were a number of projects and programs they were able to accomplish with amazing and impressive results in an uncertain year. Through the use of numerous resources and grant disbursements work could continue on projects and the purchase of a new truck and trailer was possible. “We accomplished everything we wanted and needed to be done.”
A written document will be sent to the county health department indicating the property would be included in the district system once the project begins. A commitment from Wacky Premier Properties to pay the debt service fee is being required even if no homes are on the property.Future discussion could be held
Technical services were provided through a Clean Water Indiana grant in the Walnut Creek watershed, while cost share for projects was offered through a second CWI grant in the Middle Upper Eel watershed. Additional technical expertise was provided through a contribution agreement with the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
drawing can be completed for the state to approve.
Council President Bill Musser asked if Layne was having any luck with an ordinance officer. Wilkinson reported he managed to secure the services of a the Milford build-
Long was nominated by Kosciusko County SWCD for his use of no-till, cover crops, water control structures, buffer, and filter strips, as well as a two-stage ditch in his operation.
Continued maintenance of the township’s cemeteries also was approved, utilizing the existing contractors who have been performing the duties. A concern was raised by board member Ed Clayton about snowmobiles traveling through the cemeteries. Francis, who also serves as a deputy with the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, assured Clayton it is illegal to do so and the police should and would be called for violators.
natural resources. Steve Metzger of South View Farms received this year’s award for work on his grain and dairy farm in the southern part of the county. Noteworthy practices include no-till planting, cover crops, and collaborative installation of a two-stage ditch. Metzger has also instituted a nutrient management plan, which includes a waste storage facility and the use of French drains.
Chad Jonsson, park superintendent, gave an update on tree board projects. A tree at Lakeside Park has been removed and several more trees need to be removed. Jonsson has submitted a grant application to Tree City USA and it is currently being“Inreviewed.mid-March, we will know if we are awarded with a Tree City distinction or not,” he said.
The artist contingent was arranged by Michiana Ice Carvers Association, and included individuals from South Bend, Fort Wayne, Churubusco, Bluffton, La Porte and Edwardsburg, Mich.
what the resolution allows them to do. The board approved the resolution to move forward with the appraisals. Francis said he hopes the township will be able to close on the purchase in April.
The annual meeting also provides an annual review of the SWCD and highlights of significant projects.
tricts in the area “declined” to provide service to the people in question. He said the residents interested in sanitary sewer service surveyed others there and found 87% wanted the service.Jones said the potential district could include a partnership with Knapp Lake in Noble County, which has wastewater equipment that runs nearby to the Kosciusko County residents needing service.
The artists were led by Stan Horn of MICA, who has been involved in the craft for more than three decades. He returned from a one-year hiatus after undergoing back surgery last year. “I’m just now getting back into the swing of it and it feels good,” he said. He opted to carve the sculpture in front of Cafe Liefde in relief, because “the stems on the leaves would be too thin and fragile” in a traditionally carved sculpture.
The district’s annual food plot seed program provided more than 1,400 pounds of seed to landowners, while the annual tree sale program distributed more than 8,500 trees to participants. The tree sales depleted the SWCD’s supply for the first time in its history.
During the meeting a lengthy discussion was held regarding a request to extend service by 200 feet in Oswego. The board unanimously voted to have JPR extend 200 additional feet of service off
He gave park board members an update on the new Schrock Fields project. He said all the plumbing and electrical work is done. Insulation work will be conducted inside the buildings and garage doors, drywall work, and siding are to be done soon. Siding has been delivered and so has the playground equipment, he Anoted.request from the Syracuse-Wawasee Rotary Club to serve alcohol at its March event was approved. The event is a poker tournament and a fundraiser for the club’s scholarship fund.
The district drew attention to three Lake and River Enhancement grants that provided cost share to landowners to implement a variety of conservation practices to improve soil health and water quality.
Artists complete carvings for Syracuse Winter Wonderland Of Ice Festival
Francis said the State Board of Accounts is pushing back against the rollover of last year’s remaining funds to pay for the purchase of the building. He said he would continue to pursue the township’s ability to draw from last year’s leftover funds to complete the transaction.
The Conservation Farmer of the Year Award is the district’s longestgiven recognition. It acknowledges noteworthy conservation practices in a farm operation that improve soil health, water quality and related
Bingo with the Knights of Columbus “went well” last month with 30 people in attendance, he said.
Jonsson gave the park’s financial report for Jan. 10 to Feb. 14 and the financial report for January for park board members to review.
Commission meeting held prior to the town council meeting, the commission approved spending $5,000 to Commonwealth to do road platting in the technology park. Wilkinson also put forth a request from the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce putting a “Welcome to Syracuse” sign by the technology park.Larry Siegel, commission president, noted the chamber has made the request in the past and it has been rejected for a number of reasons.
Fire Chief Mickey Scott thanked the public for its assistance during the storm. The town provided a plow at station No. 1 and the county provided a plow at station No. 2. Asked about the fire that occurred early Saturday morning, Feb. 12, Scott recommended people consider putting smoke detectors in theirVirginiaattics. Cazier, clerk-treasurer, requested approval to pay $10,3238.38 to NIPSCO from the Community Crossing grant. The council approved the request.
Francis presented the board with the trustee’s annual report, unanimously approved by the three trustees.
To date 50 percent of the easement agreements have been received from residents on each lake. A third mailing will be sent out with a final deadline for residents to return the signed agreements.Jon Tyler, district board president, stated putting off signing the agreement will not allow the homeowner to make decisions, which could be favorable to them and cost the home owner money. Those who have not signed the agreement will have to purchase a grinder pump and pay for their own installation. The initial cost of pumps and line installation will be the responsibility of the district for those with signed agreements.
vation Farmer of the Year.
William Passino and Ryan Eckert from Fort Wayne worked as a team to complete four of the sculptures. They hollowed out the ice block in front of Fidelity National Title on Main Street to serve as a picture frame in which children could pose for photos. They also carved three ice blocks on the east sidewalk of Huntington Street along the block south of Main.Howard Busfield, a 17-year veteran ice carver from South Bend, took a break from his Adirondack chair sculpture for My Red Moon to explain how the pristinely transpar-
There was some question as to whether the township would be able to use money from the 2021 Rainy Day Fund to finance the purchase.
The raft programs for students made a comeback in 2021. Students boarded rafts for two programs, one on Grassy Creek and a second on
Darin Lursen gave the program report. He said the adult basketball league is “going fine” and there is three weeks left in the season.
• Heard an update on the county’s comprehensive plan, Forward Kosciusko County, from Project Manager Katie Clark of Taylor Siefker Williams Design Group, which is helping with the project. Clark also did a presentation on the plan via Zoom during the Kosciusko County Area Planning Commission meeting Wednesday, Feb. 9.
Park board members heard an update on Laudeman Park’s plantings. Jonsson said he talked to Heartland Restoration about the plants to be put around the east and south side of the Signagepark.
Tippecanoe Township Advisory Board meets in quick session
2 www.the-papers.com — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wednesday, February 16, 2022
from
Musser instructed Jonsson to bring plans for using the Dolan Street property for a dog park for discussion at the March council meeting. Jonsson was also instructed to find alternative locations in case the Dolan Street area won’t work.
The number of sculptures was prodigious compared to previous festivals, according to Renea Salyer, executive director of the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce. “The last couple years we haven’t had as many blocks, only six or seven,” she said.“The festival is becoming more well known, and it has been a great experience this year with a great number of sponsorships. The ice carvers are very talented.”
More photos of the ice sculptures can be found at www.facebook.com/ swchamberoc.
Election of supervisors is additionally a part of the annual meeting. This year two supervisor positions were elected. Martin was elected to a second term on the board and Stan Moore received a second appointment to the board after serving two elected terms.
ing inspector, who is an independent contractor, one day a week for code enforcement for buildings.
“Theindex.cost of labor, everything is up,” said GanserSmith.toldthe board he would like more time to look at the proposal and asked it be taken under consideration. The board will vote on the proposed increase at their March meeting.
Recycling board approves unpaid COVID-19 policy
Councilwoman Kimberly Cates said it may have been a great idea to the state legislators, but “I don’t think they realized the dollar amount that it’s actually going to affect the counties and county income eventually.”Cates made a motion to pass the resolution, Wiggins seconded it and it was approved 7-0.
Kosciusko County Solid Waste Management District approved an unpaid COVID-19 policy for the depot during a Feb. 15 meeting.Discussions on establishing a policy for employees at the depot who become sick with the virus first began in January. This approval comes after a Feb. 1 meeting in which county commissioners established guidelines for county employees regarding unpaid leave if they have COVID-19 or are a close contact of someone testingBoardpositive.Member Rick Swaim asked why the time within the policy was unpaid. He said he thought employees who need time off for COVID-19 related matters should get paid.
In other business Jim Silcox brought up the idea of the lake level and flow rate monitoring.
Ernie Wiggins said, “I just think it’s important that we contact our legislators. ... This is just a bad bill. Period.”
On Oct. 19, 1990, he married Penny L. Reagan. She preceded him in death April 6, 2011.
Surviving are three daughters, Colleen Norris, Iowa, Corrie (Chris) Torres, Texas, and Tayler Norris, Kansas; four sons, Raymond Norris, Connecticut, Charles Norris, Shawn Norris and David M. Norris, all of Cromwell; 11 grandchildren; a sister, Cheri Lackey, Elkhart; and a brother, Richard Norris, Arizona.Hewas also preceded in death by his parents, Paul Wesley and Bonnalyn Irene (Hughes) Norris; and sister, Linda Troxell.
Michael R. “Mike” Pease, 55, Kimmell, died at 1:42 p.m. Friday, Feb. 11, 2022, at Kosciusko Community Hospital, Warsaw. Arrangements are currently pending at Owen Family Funeral Home, Syracuse.
Continued from page 1
Puckett said they have an interlocal agreement with the KCCRVC that “is more vague and lessHistorically,defined.” the auditor’s office did not collect a fee from the KCCRVC for the service it provided, she said, but the office does pay to advertise the meetings and uses the county’s paper, ink, printers, etc. Puckett said $500 a year would be fair to compensate the county for the supplies.Councilman Jon Garber made a motion to approve the $500 fee and the council unanimously approved it. The commissioners also will need to approve it.
To send condolences to the family, please visit familyfuneralhome.com.www.owen-
Silcox suggested sitting down with Jonsson and showing him the information the conservancy already has and then talking to the WACF. Musser pointed out having this information would be extremely helpful when a new person takes over the job in the future.
Armando worked as a fiberglass pattern maker. He enjoyed making things out of wood and leather. He especially loved being with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Cremation will take place at Cremation Services of Kosciusko County, 4356 N. SR 15, Warsaw. Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 21, at Owen Family Funeral Home, SR 13 and CR 500N, North Webster.
To send condolences to the family, please visit familyfuneralhome.com.www.owen-
• A transfer of $15,000 from sheriff maintenance contracts to sheriff dues and subscriptions. Bucher said the transfer was to compensate additional subscriptions the KCSO has and to pay the subscriptions “in the correct account.”
Obituaries
The WACF already has transducers in the area creeks doing monitoring for its WINS study.
Sr.,Hutchinson“Hutch”HalsteadWilliam77,
• An additional appropriation of $12,225 for insurance vehicle replacement requested by Bucher. Last fall an officer in his patrol vehicle hit a deer and the insurance company totaled the vehicle for $12,225. Bucher said the KCSO wanted to move that money from the general fund into the KCSO insurance replacement for new vehicles.
William L. Workman
June 28, 1980, he married Nancy L. (Gurnsey) Wilson; she survives. He is also survived by a daughter, Pamela G. (Richard) Roth, St. Petersburg, Fla.; two sons, Timothy W. (Shandon) Sands, Yuba City, Calif., and Joseph L. (Myra) Sands, Milford; two stepdaughters, Rhonda Estrada, Leesburg, and Annette (Will) Austin, Carmel; seven grandchildren; six stepgrandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.Hewas preceded in death by his parents, Edward Henry and Lura Pearl (Asher) Sands; sister, Betty Gratner; brother, Gerald Sands; two half sisters, Maude and Mary; and half brother,VisitationRobert.will be from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 17, at Owen Family Funeral Home, 1001 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 18, at the funeral home with Pastor Mindy Hoffman officiating. Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. (C.S.T.) Friday in the San Pierre Public Cemetery.Preferred memorials may be given to the Mission Organization, I.A.T., 5868 E. 71st St., Suite E199, Indianapolis, IN 46220 or Calvary United Methodist Church, 801 S. Huntington St., Syracuse, IN 46567.
The Girl Scout Cookie Program powers amazing experiences for girls, as they work together to solve problems, make
To participate in “Cookie Share,” contact any Girl Scout for the link to her digital cookie platform. To find a Girl Scout near you, go to www.gsnim.org and type your ZIP code into the Cookie Finder.
Visitation was held from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 15, at Rieth Rohrer Ehret Funeral Home, 311 S. Main St., Goshen, and one hour prior to the 11 a.m. funeral service Wednesday, Feb. 16. Pastor James “Jim” Vandermark officiated. Burial followed at Baintertown Cemetery.Memorial contributions can be directed to Good Samaritan FundBethanyRiethChurchRohrer Ehret Funeral Home, Goshen, handled arrangements and online condolences may be sent at www.rrefh.com.
Specializing in: ELDER LAW • PROBATE • ESTATE PLANNING NOW IN NEW LOCATION: The Huntington Building Phone: (574) 457-5100 703 North Huntington Street Facsimile: (855) 457-5100 Syracuse, Indiana 46567 Email: lek@birchkaufman.com “Local Attorneys Serving all of Kosciusko and Noble Counties” 1021 Mariners 574-267-3266WarsawDrive YOURPROTECTINGTODAYSANDTOMORROWS www.wrhallins.com
He was born Oct. 9, 1945.He is survived by two sisters, Nancy Chandler and Joanne (Leo) Womack, both of Massachusetts; two brothers, Clarence Close, Florida, and Nathan Close, New Hampshire; adopted family, Sheila (Richard) Smith and Fred (Sherry) Rosbrugh; five grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
Show you care, share a Girl Scout Cookie
Silcox floated the idea of paying the WACF a reasonable price to access the data already collected so it could assist Jonsson.
Turkey Creek
Syracuse, died at 4:50 p.m. Friday, Feb. 11, 2022, at his
WilliamHutchinsonHalsteadSr.
Council President Sue Ann Mitchell provided the resolution and said, “Personal property elimination at the state legislature has become a really big topic. AIM – the unit that represents municipalities – and the (Association of Indiana Counties) have worked together to try to provide information and to provide the data in order to help the legislators understand what the impact would be of reducing or eliminating personal property.”Mitchell said County Auditor Michelle Puckett worked on the figures Thursday and “if we lost all personal property ... in Kosciusko County, we collect over $60 million in personal property — so if that funding mechanism went away, and because of the tax caps, the shift would be from those businesses ... over to homeowners. That’s a pretty big ask forCouncilhomeowners.”VicePresident Joni Truex said, “I don’t think our legislators at the state have really considered the fact that businesses can raise the price on products in most cases in order to offset some of their expenses ... Councilman.”
business plans and turn their goals into reality. Girl Scouts use some of their earnings to give back to their community by helping animal shelters, collecting for food drives, raising awareness on bullying and much more.
Michael R. Pease
She said the council needed to decide if they wanted to attach “something to it financially” in exchange for the auditor’s office doing the work, providing the supplies and advertising “and all“Overthat.”the years, our duties for the commission have changed and where we’re at right now is that we have a need to perform a few more services than what we were previously,” Puckett said.
James R. “Jim” Close, 76, WebsterNorth
The conservancy wants to have
In other business, Steve Smith, Whitley Environmental president, attended the meeting to present a document regarding an annual increase with the district’s contract. Smith said the increase is based on a municipal cost
James R. Close
William L. “Bill” Workman, 84, North Webster, died at 11:50 a.m. Monday, Feb. 7, 2022, at hisHehome. was born Sept. 27, 1937.
home.He was born June 2, 1944. On May 16, 1964, he married Andrea K. Edmondson; she survives.Heisalso survived by a daughter, Angelia Edwards, Goshen; two sons, Bill (Tammy) Hutchinson Jr., Syracuse, and Jerry (Tanya) Jonathan, Eagle River, Alaska; 11 grandchildren; a sister, Linda (Larry) Martin, Shelbyville; a sister-in-law, Sandra (Melvin) Clark Sr., Rushville; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.Hewas preceded in death by his parents, Omar and Gatha (Whitaker) Hutchinson; brother, Howard Hutchinson Sr.; a nephew; grandparents, Virgil and Hester Whitaker and Warner and Ella (Fish) Hutchinson; son-in-law, Scott Edwards; father- and mother-in-law, Jerry and Minnie Edmondson; stepfather-in-law, Ralph Smith; sisterin-law, Patty Hutchinson; and best friend, Dean CremationHewitt.willtake place at Cremation Services of Kosciusko County, 4356 N. SR 15, Warsaw. Visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19, at the United Methodist Church, 7822 E. Epworth Forest Road, North Webster. A celebration of life service will follow at 4 p.m. Saturday at the church with Pastor Paul Rogers officiating. Private burial will be in McClintic Cemetery at a later date. Owen Family Funeral Home, 1001 S. Huntington St., Syracuse, is in charge of arrangements.Preferred memorials may be given to the Turkey Creek Fire Dept./ E.M.S., 8138 E. McClintic Road, Syracuse, IN 46567.
On Sept. 19, 1964, he married Marilyn S. Howard. She preceded him in death May 27, Surviving2013. are two daughters, Jenny (Jeff) Fearnow, Fort Wayne, and Beth Workman, North Webster; a son, Scott (Renee) Workman, Winona Lake; four grandchildren; three greatgrandchildren; and a sister, Peggy Smith, Crossville, Tenn. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Noble and Della (Goodpastor) Workman; four sisters; and three brothers.
• An additional appropriation of $24,000 from the Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Partnership grant for bulletproof vests; $30,000 from a Comprehensive Hoosier Highways Injury Reduction Program Click It To Live It 2022 grant and $22,500 from a CHIRP DUI Task Force 2022 grant for overtime patrolling for seatbelt and DUI enforcement.
Even if you don’t buy Girl Scout cookies for yourself this season, through “Cookie Share” you can purchase a box (or several) that goes toward a charitable organization chosen by Girl Scouts of Northern IndianaMichiana.Examples of organizations are first responders, veterans, food banks and many more. Both the Girl Scout and her troop will get credit for every box you donate to “Cookie Share.”
Cremation will take place at Cremation Services of Kosciusko County, 4356 N. SR 15, Warsaw. Visitation was held from 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 13, at Owen Family Funeral Home, SR 13 and CR 500N, North Webster. Memorial services followed at 3 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home with Pastor Ken Chupp officiating. Military honors followed at the funeralPreferredhome.memorials may be given to the Southern Care Hospice, 7557 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46804.
6,borninHealthcareSpringsWarsaw.HewasMarch1935.On
Preferred memorials may be given to the David Norris Funeral Fund, Owen Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 72, North Webster, IN 46555.
March 30, 1951.
He explained how Chad Jonsson, park superintendent, uses reference points upstream to keep the lake level at the correctSilcoxpoint.explained there are companies using transducers and rain gauges to accomplish the same thing. He noted if Jonsson had data on rainfall upstream, it could help him.
“This just gives them (employees) an option because if they didn’t have paid time off avail-
Kosciusko County Council Thursday, Feb. 10, approved a resolution opposing legislation regarding the business personal property tax elimination.
David P. Norris David P. Norris,“Dave”70, Syracuse , formerly pital.Goshen10,day,a.m.diedCromwell,ofat2:26Thurs-Feb.2022,atHos-Hewasborn
The annual Girl Scout Cookie Program continues through March 14. Cost is $5 per package, $6 for gluten-free.
Surviving are his wife, Melba, New Paris; sons, Armando Garza Jr., Elkhart, and Antonio (Angela) Garza, Elkhart; grandchildren, Amanda (Joe) Zapata, Arizona, Anissa (Casey) Morris, Goshen, and Anndrea (Donavan) Weeden, Goshen; and great-grandchildren, Teigan Weeden, Daniela and Gabriela Zapata.
Preceding him in death are his parents; brother, Arnaldo Garza; sister, Anita Childers; and great-grandson, Kirk Antonio Coleman.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Murriel (Hartt) Close; two brothers, Harry and John Close; and longtime companion, Doreen Rosbrugh.Cremation will take place at Cremation Services of Kosciusko County, 4356 N. SR 15, Warsaw. Visitation will be from noon to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19, at the Church of the Brethren, 7281 E. 600N, North Webster. Memorial services will follow at 1 p.m. Saturday at the church with Pastor Bob Wyman officiating. Private burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw, at a later date. Preferred memorials may be given to the Church of Brethren, 7281 E. 600N, North Webster, IN 46555.Tosend condolences to the family, please visit milyfuneralhome.com.www.owenfa-
To send condolences to the family, please visit neralhome.com.www.owenfamilyfu-
County council critical of BPP Tax Elimination Bill
In other business, the council approved:•Anadditional appropriation of a $40,000 Emergency Management Performance grant from 2021, requested by Kosciusko County Emergency Management Director Ed Rock. The money will be used to enhance
, died at 8:40 a.m. Monday, Feb. 7, 2022, at his home.
He was born Sept. 5, 1943, in Brownsville, Texas, to Cruz and Julia (Sias) Garza. On May 3, 1966, he married Melba (Sheets) Garza.
Mitchell also brought up an-
rate it collects based on what is needed. He anticipated the impact would go down rather than up.Currently the tax impact within the conservancy district is on primary residences assessed at $500,000, the tax impact is approximately $135 while the impact on property assessed at $1 million is $301. For secondary homes within the conservancy district, the impact is approximately $200 for property assessed at $500,000 and approximately $460 for property assessed at $1 million.
other item not on the agenda.
able, you’d virtually get terminated,” said Kosciusko County Recycling Depot Director Tom Ganser. “They could use paid leave or comp time if they so choose.”
The board also moved to have its slate of officers remain the same for 2022, with Brad Jackson as president and Bob Conley as vice-president.Theboard’s next meeting is at 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 15.
its•cybersecurity.AnIndiana Department of Natural Resources grant proposal for $15,000, requested by Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Shane Bucher. The money, if awarded, will go toward the KCSO Marine Patrol Division to patrol Lake Wawasee, Syracuse Lake and Tippecanoe Lake and their chains. The commissioners previously approved the application.
Paul V. Sands Paul V. Sands, 86, Syracuse , died at 5:09 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 10, 2022, at Paddock
Armando S. Garza Sr. Fiberglass Pattern Maker
Armando S. Garza Sr., 78, New Paris, died at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 11, 2022, at Goshen Hospital.
“One of the things that we need to talk about ... is where we’re at with the agreement for the (Kosciusko County Convention Recreation Visitors Commission), and how we’re going to handle the change in what the duties are that the auditor is going to do for them,” she said.
3Wednesday, February 16, 2022 — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — www.the-papers.com
Pipp went over the cash flow with the board to make sure the conservancy would be solvent through June when the first tax distribution would come through.Chris Jeter from LawsonFisher, the engineering firm working with the conservancy district, provided a rehabilitation schedule for the dike project. Noting the schedule is a “worst case scenario,” Jeter reported the site survey is completed. Tree removal is expected to start later this month or in early March with soil borings to follow.When the project is finished it will look similar to the water control device. Jeter noted he has been in conversations with the DNR regarding the wetlands and lake near the dike.
a concrete pad on pilings that is 1 foot above the 100-year flood level.Bill Musser, Syracuse Town Council president, asked if it would be difficult to get equipment back to the dike area, noting it could be a quagmire due to the wetlands. Jeter said he wasn’t sure how equipment would be brought back there. He noted he’s depending on the contractor for input.
To send condolences to the family, please visit funeralhome.com.www.owenfamily-
• An additional appropriation of $215,299.50 from the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant for new KCSO radios. Bucher said starting Tuesday, Feb. 15, the KCSO cars will have new radios installed on a rotational basis.
A Milford woman was one of nine persons arrested by a joint, county wide task force, which snared nine people and issued warrants for eight others for various drug-related Thecharges.Kosciusko County Narcotics Enforcement Team (NET 43), recently completed several months of covert surveillance and undercover operations, which led to the arrests.They dubbed the endeavor, “OperationDuringWintertime.”theovernight hours Wednesday, Feb. 9, and into Thursday, Feb. 10, NET 43 agents and officers from Marshall County Sheriff’s Department, Syracuse Police Department, Warsaw Police Department, Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office and Claypool Police Department arrested nine individuals on several charges and continue to search for eight others who have
Cromwell. He has warrants for possession of methamphetamine, and possession of paraphernalia.
arrest war-
Incidents
N. SR 13, North Webster. Drivers: Kenneth L. Silveus, 59, West Market Street, Pierceton; and Steven D. Lecount, 57, Green Hill Drive, Warsaw. Silveus was backing his vehicle when he hit Lecount’s vehicle. Damage up to $5,000.
HARDWARESYRACUSE113W.MainSt.UptownSyracuse574-457-3266 COMPLETE HARDWARE • PAINT • LUMBER TOOLS • GUNS • AMMO www.shopsyracusehardware.com
Accidents
1:19 a.m. Monday, Feb. 14, North CR 500E, south of East CR 1100N, Syracuse. Driver: Donald E. Black, 52, West Brooklyn Street, Syracuse. Black was traveling north on North CR 500E when a deer entered the roadway. Black swerved his vehicle, which caused his vehicle to leave the roadway and hit a tree. A passenger in Black’s vehicle, Sharon S. Craft, 53, North Webster, was taken to a Fort Wayne hospital for injuries sustained in the accident. Damage up to $25,000.
A Florida man was recently arrested after allegedly pointing a firearm at someone while having a prior conviction for aggravatedAnthonyassault.J.Rohrbaugh, 45, Bradenton, Fla., is charged with intimidation with a deadly weapon and carrying a handgun without a license with a prior conviction, both level 5 felonies; pointing a firearm at another, a level 6 felony; and carrying a handgun without a license and resisting law enforcement, both class A misdemeanors.OnJan. 29, a Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office deputy responded to a report of an unwanted person with a handgun sitting in a vehicle in the Syracuse area.
Warsaw
8:21 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 6, East CR 1300N, west of North Kern Road, Syracuse. Driver: Ashlyn S. Blocher, 19, Heron Boulevard, Warsaw. Blocher was traveling west when her vehicle left the roadway and hit a mailbox. Damage up to $2,500.
The following couple have applied for a marriage license in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court Ann Torpy:
The single-vehicle accident happened Dec. 28, 2018, on North Warsaw Oswego Road, south of East Rader Road, Leesburg.
The legislation would provide state-funded Voter-Verified Paper Audit Trail machines for every direct-recording electronic voting machine in the state by 2024.
Feb. 9 – Harvey Truman Clutter, 66, 4491 N. Maple Way, Leesburg, booked for leaving the scene of a personal injury crash. Bond: $500Feb.cash.8— Heather Marie Frederick, 43, 56 EMS B4 Lane, Leesburg, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated with a prior. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.
2:41 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 10, 1400 block North Long Drive, Syracuse. Laura A. Garber reported theft.
a Level 5 felony. Her bond was set at $20,250 and she is currently being held at the Elkhart CountyWarrantsJail. have also been issued for the following persons:
Feb. 13 – Danielle Leann Starr, 34, 105 S. James St., Milford, booked for a foreign warrant. No bond.Feb. 11 — Ryan Joshua McKinney, 27, 6652 N. 5th Trail, North Webster, booked for possession of methamphetamine. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.
The following person was booked in Noble County Jail:
The following people were booked in Kosciusko County Jail: Feb. 14 – Donald E. Black, 52, 710 W. Brooklyn St., Syracuse, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Bond: $5,250 surety cash.
4:12 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 10, North Syracuse Webster Road, north of East CR 1100N, Syracuse.
5:18 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 6, East CR 1300N, west of North Kern Road, Syracuse. Driver: Austin L. Myers, 18, Turkey Creek Drive, Milford. Myers was traveling west on CR 1300N when his vehicle left the roadway and hit a fence on the property of Catherine L. Hoopingarner, Syracuse. Damage up to $2,500.12:15
Miner also suspended Dennis’ driving privileges for six years retroactive to the fall of 2021 when probable cause was found for his actions.
Anyone with any information of the whereabouts of the above listed individuals are encouraged to notify your local law enforcement agency or contact the NET 43 tip line at NET43@kcgov.com or call (574) 372-2494.
He said Olmsted’s personal loss amounted to $382,284.64 and Olmsted also wished for $15,000 from Dennis to be given to a fund for victims of violent incidents.
Incidents
6:37 p.m. Monday, Feb. 7, 100 block North Section Street, Milford. Report of a hit and run.
9:05 p.m. Monday, Feb. 7, East Backwater Road, west of North CR 850E, North Webster. Driver: Jason B. Zorn, 36, East Backwater Road, North Webster. Zorn was traveling west on Backwater Road when a deer entered the roadway. Damage up to $5,000.
Loftis — Kristi Loftis, North Webster, and James Loftis, Larwill. Married: March 9, 2004. Separated: Dec. 1, 2016. There are two minor children.
Feb. 10 — Sondra K. Ratliff, 48, 18857 US 6, Apt. G, New Paris, booked for a failure to appear warrant. Bond: $3,500.
Kosciusko County
Marriage Dissolutions
1 a.m. Monday, Feb. 7, North SR 13, south of East CR 200N, North Webster. Driver: Steffanie K. Jimenez, 30, North Main Street C., North Webster. Jimenez was traveling north on SR 13 when she hit plowed snow on the edge of the roadway, resulting in damage to her vehicle. Damage up to $5,000.
A Syracuse man has been sentenced to three years for a drunk driving accident that injured a passenger.LarryLee Dennis Jr., 51, Syracuse, was sentenced for causing serious bodily injury when operating a vehicle while intoxicated, a Level 5 felony. Three other charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.
6:03 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 8, 200 block East Fourth Street, Milford. Report of intimidation.
Feb. 7 — Roxanne Marie Ratliff, 41, 7232 E. 650N, North Webster, booked for a drug court violation. No bond listed.
The bill will also increase security around absentee ballots by requiring Indiana voters to submit their driver’s license number or the last four digits of their Social Security number when submitting an online request for an
The following couple have filed a marriage dissolution in Kosciusko Superior and Circuit Courts:
Officers with the North Webster Police Department investigated the following accidents: Accidents 3:54 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 8, 7248
• Ryan McKinney, 27, North Webster. He has warrants for possession of methamphetamine, driving while suspended, and possession of paraphernalia.
3:15 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 8, 4100 block of East Forest Glen Avenue, Leesburg. Buhrt Builders Inc. had multiple tools stolen. Value of $1,544.95.
4 www.the-papers.com — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wednesday, February 16, 2022 Published by The Papers Incorporated every Wednesday and entered as Periodical Class matter at the Post Office in Syracuse, Indiana 46567. Periodical Class postage paid at 102 E. Main Street, Syracuse, Indiana 46567 and at additional entry offices. SUBSCRIPTION: Newstand rate $1.50 per copy, $43.00 per year in Kosciusko County, $54.00 per year in Indiana and $64.00 per year out of Publisher,state.Ron Baumgartner rbaumgartner@the-papers.com Business Manager, Carrie Goralczyk cgoralczyk@the-papers.com Editor-In-Chief, Deb Patterson dpatterson@the-papers.com Associate Editor, Tim Ashley................tashley@the-papers.com Director Of Marketing, Steve Meadows smeadows@the-papers.com Advertising Manager, Bill Hays ...............bhays@the-papers.com POSTMASTERS: Send change of address forms to The Mail-Journal, P.O. Box 188, Milford, Indiana 46542-0188. The Papers Incorporated 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. DEADLINES: Legal copy, 5 p.m. Monday, classified copy and display copy, 11 a.m. PRODUCTION:Tuesday.TheMail-Journal is digitally composed on Macintosh Computers using Digital Technology’s Newspaper Publishing Suite Software and Photoshop software. Ads may be submitted as PDF’s & E-mailed to adcomp@the-papers.com. If you have any questions give us a call and we’ll walk you through it. 206 S. Main St. P.O. Box 188 Milford, IN 46542-0188 Phone (574) FAX1-800-733-4111658-4111800-886-3796 102 E. Main St. Syracuse, IN 46567-1119 Phone (574) 457-3666 Fax 888-511-7914 [U.S.P.S 325-840] Vol. 61, No. 1 Consolidation of THE MILFORD MAIL (Est. 1888) and THE SYRACUSE-WAWASEE JOURNAL (Est. 1907)
Kosciusko County Officers with the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office investigated the following accidents and incidents:
Secretary of State Holli Sullivan’s top legislative priorities to increase election security and confidence passed the Senate elections committee, Monday, Feb.
eragealcoholicofalsoThereslurred.hisshotbeingtodrunkDennissuspectedOfficerswasduehiseyesblood-andspeechwasthesmellalcoholandbev-containers in the vehicle.
Kosciusko Superior Court 3 Judge Chad Miner agreed to set a tentative date of March 8 for a restitu-
Accidents/Incidents
Miner said he didn’t want to go too light on Dennis because of his prior criminal history and the injury Olmsted received.
“Every14. Hoosier deserves to know that their vote was accurately and securely cast,” Sullivan said. “This bill will ensure every voting machine includes a paper audit trail, allowing voters to independently verify their vote was correctly recorded. This visual evidence gives Hoosiers confidence by seeing paper confirmation of their vote.”
North Webster
9 – Kenneth James Graff Jr., 38, 203 E. Van Buren St., Leesburg, booked for possession of methamphetamine. Bond: $5,250 surety cash.
tionRegardinghearing. the sentencing Tuesday, Stoll argued for leniency for his client due to Dennis having suffered numerous health issues, including having his leg amputated and heart issues.
A witness at the scene said he tried to get Rohrbaugh’s attention by banging on the vehicle’s door. When he opened the vehicle’s door, Rohrbaugh pointed a handgun at his face. A child at the scene also said they saw Rohrbaugh point a firearm at the witness. Officers later discovered the firearm was loaded.
VVPATs increase voter confidence and improve the state’s ability to conduct post-election audits and recounts.
Van Lue-Buhrt
Rohrbaugh was previously convicted for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, a third degree felony, in Florida in March Rohrbaugh2020.was booked in the Kosciusko County Jail Jan. 30, with a $10,250 surety and cash bond.
Milford resident arrested in drug sweep
Dennis registered .22 on a blood alcohol test.
amphetamine,sionandLevelphetamine,ingwithandwas35,Thompson,rants.TashaofMilfordarrestedbookeddeal-metham-a3felony,posses-ofmeth-
absenteeIndianaballot.offered the option to request an absentee ballot digitally for the first time in 2020. In the 2020 General Election, Indiana saw an unprecedented number of absentee ballot applications. Nearly 250,000 of those applications were submitted electronically.Already passed by the House, the bill will also provide cybersecurity protection for the statewide voter registration system and Indiana counties through 2028.
Drivers: Andrew M. Shoemaker, 36, East CR 500N, Leesburg; and Stephen H. Hill, 71, East CR 500N, Leesburg. Shoemaker’s vehicle rear-ended Hill’s vehicle. Damage up to 5:56$1,000.p.m.Monday, Feb. 7, South Huntington Street, south of East Bowser Road, Syracuse. Drivers: Cole A. Young, 16, East Highland View Drive, Syracuse; and Richard D. Nelson, 62, West Hillside Drive, Syracuse. Young was traveling south on South Huntington Street when he was rear-ended by Nelson’s vehicle. Damage up to $5,000.
Noble County
Feb. 8 – Kelly Marie Conway, 39, 6886 E. 600N, North Webster, booked for felony failure to appear. No bond.
As part of the proceedings Tuesday, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Mark Caruso pointed out the medical bills Olmsted accrued due to the incident.
Man arrested after firearm incident
ant. He resisted arrest and continued to physically resist until additional officers arrived at the scene.
Milford
9:24 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 1, 100 block South Higbee Street, Milford. Found paraphernalia.
Officers with the Syracuse Police Department investigated the following accidents and incidents: Accidents
Incidents
Value:11:46$150.a.m. Monday, Feb. 7, 1200 block North Algonquin Drive, Syracuse. Report of an invasion of privacy.
Officers with the Elkhart County Sheriff’s Office investigated the following incident: 5:27 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 6, 70100 block of SR 15, New Paris. Officers located a vehicle off the roadway. The subject inside was found to be under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
Feb. 13 — Cameran Michael Carver, 30, 4027 E. 450N, Leesburg, booked for possession of cocaine or a narcotic drug and failure to appear. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.
6:41 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 9, North CR 300E, north of East Bowser Road, Syracuse. Driver: Jena L. Swain, 35, North Nash Drive, Syracuse. Swain was traveling north on North CR 300E when a deer entered the roadway. Damage up to $5,000.
Officers with the Warsaw Police Department investigated the following accidents: Accidents 4:35 p.m. Friday, Feb. 11, North SR 15, north of Enterprise Drive, Warsaw. Drivers: Jesus G. Hernandez, 80, Lura Circle, Milford; Ryan S. Tucker, 47, North Tucker Street, Mentone; and Cayla J. LaFollette, 35, Chapman Lake Drive, Warsaw. Hernandez was traveling north on North SR 15 and attempted to turn left across the southbound lane of travel. As he did this, he hit Tucker’s vehicle, which was traveling south on North SR 15. LaFollette’s vehicle was stopped facing west when Hernandez’s vehicle was pushed into hers. Tucker complained of face and neck pain. He was treated for his injuries at the scene. Damage up to $50,000. 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 7, Ranch Road, near Henderson Street, Warsaw. Driver: Brooklyn R. Cox, 23,
He also said Dennis had started drinking heavily following the death of his mother a few months before the accident. Stoll asked that Dennis not be given prison time because of his fragile health, saying that he could die in prison.
He was sentenced in Kosciusko Superior Court 3 Tuesday, Feb. 8.
4:02 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 9, South Huntington Street, north of South Sycamore Street, Syracuse.
Defense Attorney Aaron Stoll argued Dennis was “not going to be able to pay a significant amount of restitution” because he’s disabled and unable to work.
Marriage Licenses
Elkhart County
Upon arrival at the scene, the
p.m. Sunday, Feb. 6, East CR 1300N, east of North CR 750E, Syracuse. Driver: Heriberto Herrera Rodriguez, 37, Southfield Drive, Ligonier. Herrera Rodriguez was traveling west on CR 1300N when his vehicle slid and left the roadway, hitting a pole. No injuries were reported in the accident. Damage up to $25,000.
Syracuse
Officers with the Milford Police Department investigated the following incidents:
Feb. 13 – Kristina Marie Baldridge, 409 S. Main St., Syracuse, booked on two counts of misdemeanor failure to appear. Bond: $5,000 surety.
“It’s clear that there were some pretty serious injuries involved here,” he said.
• Shaun Cabrera, 33, North Webster. He has warrants for possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
NET 43 is a specialized and collaborative law enforcement unit dedicated to the investigation and enforcement of the drug laws in Kosciusko and surrounding counties. Also included in the team are officers with the Indiana State Police, Winona Lake Police Department, Nappanee Police Department and the Kosciusko County Prosecutor’s Office.
9:21 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 10, 600 Block South Section Street, Milford. Report of criminal mischief and intimidation.
Caruso pointed out that the December 2018 incident was Dennis’ thirdMinerOWI.opted to sentence Dennis to three years in Indiana prison with 18 months executed and the rest to be served through probation. He also said Dennis could apply to community corrections for the executed portion.
Feb. 11 — Robin Michelle Smith, 37, 13509 N. Warner Road, Syracuse, booked for assisting a criminal. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.Feb.
John D. Van Lue, 67, Syracuse, and Kimberly A. Buhrt, 62, Syracuse
retrievedThehandgun.sioninhadRohrbaughwhoaspokedeputywithwomansaidbeenposses-ofawomanthe
Feb. 8 – Stephanie Louis Orten, 38, 401 S. Main St., Milford, booked for possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hypodermic syringe or needle. Bond: $5,250 surety cash.
All charges made by law enforcement are allegations and individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Court News
In the end, no decision was made about restitution Tuesday.
handgun from Rohrbaugh before the deputy’s arrival.According to court documents, when the deputy initially attempted contact with him, Rohrbaugh would not respond. Upon the vehicle’s door being opened, Rohrbaugh allegedly became upset and non-compli-
3:32 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 12, North CR 300E, south of EMS T30 Lane, Leesburg. Driver: Andrew M. Powers, 27, East Armstrong Road, Leesburg. Powers was traveling south on North CR 300E when his vehicle left the roadway and hit an REMC utility pole and mailbox. This resulted in Powers’ vehicle rolling onto its top. Powers complained of back pain but refused treatment at the scene. Damage up to 11:51$25,000.a.m. Friday, Feb. 11, East CR 1300N, west of North CR 750E, Syracuse. Driver: Tiffiny Lopez, 18, North CR 1000E, Cromwell. Lopez was traveling west when her vehicle slid off the roadway, hitting a cable box and tree. No injuries were reported from the accident. Damage up to $10,000.
East CR 700N, Leesburg. Cox was traveling south on Ranch Road when a deer entered the roadway. Damage up to $2,500.
Jail Bookings
Driver: Mark A. Rocha, 37, North CR 250E, Milford. Rocha was traveling north on North SyracuseWebster Road when a deer entered the roadway. Damage up to $2,500.
• Christopher Schisler, 18,
Syracuse man sentenced in drunk driving accident
Election security legislation passes through committee
According to police information, Dennis, who was driving a 2002 Ford Explorer, was trying to make the curve onto Warsaw Oswego Road, when his vehicle overcorrected, which caused it to leave theTheroadway.vehicle then went through a field before going airborne and into a ditch. Both Dennis and his passenger, Jeremy S. Olmsted, were transported to Lutheran FortOlmstedWayne. had a head injury; Dennis complained of lower leg and knee pain.
action last week in the Northern Lakes Conference tournament.
Art Classes Continue Guest artist Linda Daumen returns for a final art class for the homeschool program at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 25. In March, the program will explore a new subject. More information will be announced in the future.
The Warriors from Syracuse
Courtney Jenkins provided an update on the program at the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Merit Board Wednesday, Feb.
The incident occurred at 5:05 p.m.Emergency personnel were dispatched to the residence for an in-
Change — 670, 1891 400 Series: A. Sabin 460, S. Morgan 440, N. Earle 458, Y. Schmucker Games: A. Sabin 153, 152, 155, S. Morgan 140, 172, N. Earle 142, 149, 167, Y. Schmucker 154, 160, D. Brennan 171, D. Downton 159
ended a five-game slide with a win in Emma Tuesday night.
Authorized Dealer
… resume building or interviewing skills or with mock interviews.
Items being requested are: Women’s large tops and sweatshirts, medium and large bottoms and pajamas, size 7 shoes and boots and size 9 shoes and boots.Men’s large or X-large tops and sweatshirts, large pajamas and sweats, size 30/32 jeans, size 10 shoes and boots and socks.
Tuesday Nite 02/15/22Ladies Wins Loses DWM 60.5 27.5 Hot Pins 45 43 Hot Mess 42.5 45.5 Spare Change 41.5 46.5 Pink Flamingos 38.5 49.5 Itz All Good 36 52 High Team Game & Series: Spare
Splits: V. Means 3-10, 5-7, N. Earle 2-5-10
People are stepping up to help Kosciusko County’s Jail Chemical Addiction Program participants due to viewing a documentary on theJCAPprogram.Coordinator
Other items needed are toiletries such as toilet paper, paper towels, household cleaners,
The fire was brought under control at 5:28 a.m. All fire crews cleared the scene at 9:12 a.m.
She9. said various people had stepped up to help following viewing the documentary. Episodes of the second season of the documentary are currently airing Sundays on the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.
The board also heard an update on the county’s public safety communications tower project from County Administrator Marsha McSherry.“They’re working at the central site right now,” she said. “They’re doing the borings and they should be pouring this afternoon. So each pier, because the taller towers are 40-foot deep, will take a day to do, so when they get those three piers done at that site, then they’ll move to the next site, so you can see about how long it’s going to take unless they have issues.”
Syracuse Public Library — March Book Club winner announced
Dukes led the visiting Warriors with 20 points, hitting the final four free throws to ice the contest. Mason Yoder had a huge night for the host Warriors, scoring 33 points, including 21 in the first half. An 11-4 run by Wawasee in the third quarter was the difference in the contest, helping turn a two-point halftime deficit into a 37-32 lead.
Our systems are different than any other! You deserve better water. Trust the experts at Rabb Water Systems. 6 LOCATIONS www.rabbwater.com 3940 S. Reed Rd. $500 TRADE IN VALUE Special Discount when you trade in your old softener & purchase a new Kinetico Premier Series Softener! Hard, Rusty, Smelly Water... we have the solution. Less Salt No PurifiedRust WeTrade-InMeteredNon-ElectricWaterSystemsSpecialsServiceAllMakes Limited Time Offer
“It’s just encouraging to see the community ... say ‘OK, where do we fit in this? How can we support these people as they come out of this program and really start to rebuild their lives?’ It’s just a good feeling,” she said.
Additional help coming to JCAP participants
Goshen managed to outscore Wawasee in each of the four quarters, aided by an 11-3 run to pick up the road win Friday night.Drew Hogan paced the RedHawks with 21 points, going 8-10 from the floor. Goshen also went 13-19 from the line in the game, including 7-11 in the fourth quarter.Keaton Dukes led Wawasee with 17 points and Collin Roberson had seven points and two blocks. Wawasee was 3-14 from three-point range in the game, but the two teams were a combined 6-26 from behind the arc overall.TheWawasee JV rallied in the fourth quarter to trip up Goshen, 54-49. Wawasee closed the game on an 18-2 run to outscore Goshen 29-21 in the second half. Robbie Finlinson was the high man for the Warriors with 18 points, six rebounds and three assists. Carson Smith and Darius Lewis each had 10 points in the winning effort.
Thursday in the opening round in hosting Mishawaka, the Warriors closed out a 38-29 win. Dallas Miller led the Warriors with 13Saturdaypoints. against Northridge, Kane Dukes led the team with nine points but the team fell short 39-33 in the semifinals. In the third-place game, Wawasee topped Concord 35-33. The Warriors got a block in the final five seconds to seal the win over the Minutemen, which boosted the team to a final record of 8-12 overall. Brayden Miller led Wawasee with 11 points and Dallas Miller had nine points.
cident involving a gunshotmaleregardingreceivedtionsCommunica-iff’sCountytheafterning.Sundayfirearmeve-Shortly5p.m.KosciuskoSher-Office911Centeracallawithawound to his leg. Investigators determined the suspect, identified as Jonathan Mast, had left the scene following
With “The Great Alone,” she brings a tale of isolation in the Alaskan wilderness. A fragile man, returning from time spent as a prisoner of war in the Vietnam War, takes his family to the back country of Alaska, where winter becomes a test of resiliency and the will to survive. The story is filled with many rewards.Sincethis is a longer novel, readers will have more time to read, with discussions slated to occur later in the month at 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 29, via Zoom and at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 31, in the downstairs meeting room. Copies of the
“Very proud of my whole team,” stated Wawasee coach Andrew Wilson. “We finished the season playing our best ball of the year.”
Approximately 40 firefighters from five departments battled the 3,200-square-foot structure fire. The single family two-story home was built in 1994.
Syracuse Public Library’s adult book club will be reading “The Great Alone” by Kristin Hannah during March. Hannah is the beloved author of 16 novels, including “The Nightingale,” “Firefly Lane” and “The Four Winds.”
Tower Project
Money and gift cards are also welcome.Items for the dogs include beds for the two dogs, leashes and collars, food and water bowls and dog toys. Dog food is also needed. While the dogs normally eat Iams, any brand is OK. One dog weighs 42 pounds, the other weighs 60 pounds.
Turkey Creek Fire Territory responded at 3:55 a.m. Saturday, to a report of a chimney fire that had spread to the roof of the home. When the first fire personnel arrived, flames were visible on most of the roof structure.
Wawasee wrapped up its freshman boys hoops campaign with
book are available at the Syracuse Public Library. Audio books are also available on Hoopla and Libby/ OverDrive. Libby has an e-book option, too. For more information about the adult book club, contact Becky Brower at bbrower@syracuse.lib.in.us.
Wawasee Boys Basketball 57, Westview 53
There are four towers being constructed in the following locations: 10124 N. 400E, Syracuse; 2936 E. Old Road 30, Warsaw; 2024 W. 700S, Claypool; and 208 Washing-
She said Polywood had done mock interviews with some people while they were going through the JCAP program and “they hired two of the guys without re-interviewing them. They were that impressed by them.”She noted some of the work release participants are now in leadership positions within their companies.During the snow emergency, about 80% of the companies people in the program work for closed due to the weather. As a result, they had the participants help with snow removal at the building to keep them busy.
Jonathan David Mast, 38, 30404 Old US 30, Elkhart, has been arrested and initially charged with aggravated battery following a shooting Sunday, Feb. 13, in the 100 block of South James Street, Milford.Thename of the 44-year-old male victim has not been released. The victim suffered a gunshot wound to his leg and was transported to an area hospital for the non-lifethreatening injury.
tially being above the level of the smoke alarms, in the attic area and on the roof of the structure.
Story Time Story times continue at 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays. Wednesday’s Wacky and Wiggly Storytime features messy fun, so children should come dressed accordingly. Fridays are more laid back.
Three12. occupants and two dogs escaped without injury, however they have been left with only the clothes they wore to escape. Turkey Creek Fire Territory has been requested to assist the occupants by accepting donations of items on behalf of the family.
A home at 9169 E. Lilac Lane, Cromwell, on the northeast side of Lake Wawasee in Enchanted Hills at the corner of Lilac and Goldilocks lanes, was destroyed by fire early Saturday morning, Feb.
5Wednesday, February 16, 2022 — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — www.the-papers.com
Wawasee home a total loss, assistance requested
“One of the most noteworthy I would say would be the CFO of Network Partners has reached out to us,” she said. “He’s actually located in Miami, Fla., but has offered to fly up once a month to meet with our people to share his story, to talk with them about his recovery and where life has brought him and so we’re actually going to have a little Zoom meeting to kind of work through those things.”Shealso said a woman plans to teach a household management class to JCAP participants on “just kind of those basic things that we kind of all figure out as we go or you’ve learned from your parents or whatever but they may not know those things.”
Elkhart man arrested after shooting in Milford
the alleged incident. Mast was subsequently apprehended and is currently incarcerated in the Kosciusko County Jail. Additional information will be available once formal charges are filed. Mast is currently being held on $20,250 surety/cash bond. This incident remains under investigation by the Milford Police Department.Responding to the scene were the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, Milford, Syracuse, North Webster police departments, NET 43, Milford Fire Department, Lutheran EMS and Kosciusko County Prosecuting Attorney’s office.
Authorized Dealer
ton St., Sidney.
The board also heard an update on the county’s work-release program from its Director Heather Desenberg. She said as of the meeting there were 87 people in work release, with a few more to be added by the week’s end.
She reported three men should receive their high school equivalency diplomas soon. Additionally, she met with leaders of Lake City Bank.“(Lake City Bank President and CEO) David Findlay has expressed interest in really looking at our graduates to hire into the bank, just finding those right fits,” she said. “They’re going to be helping us out with our mock interviews and have had internally people in their organization reach out to them wanting to help with
American Red Cross is providing immediate assistance to the occupants of the home.
Donations can be taken to the Fire Department Administrative Assistance office in the Syracuse Town Hall, 310 N. Huntington St., between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
He also reported the office is working on getting helmet-mounted cameras for the SWAT team and body cameras for officers through severalHeardgrants.from Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office Jail Commander 1st Sgt. Shane Coney 241 inmates were incarcerated in the Kosciusko County Jail as of the meeting Wednesday.Additionally Coney said the state’s annual inspection of the jail was Thursday, Feb. 10.
Sports Week in review
Freshman Warriors Wrap Up Season
Maddux Everingham added 11 points for Wawasee, which improved to 6-13 on the season.
Carson Smith and Weston Hoffert combined for 31 points as the Wawasee JV pulled away from Westview in a 54-45 win.
434140
Goshen Boys Basketball 50, Wawasee 40 Wawasee ended its Northern Lakes Conference season on a down note, falling to Goshen Friday night to conclude 0-7 in the conference standings.
There were operational smoke alarms inside the home at the time of the fire, although the smoke alarms reportedly did not activate due to the fire ini-
laundry detergent, fabric softener sheets. Basically, anything they will need for a rental house such as bath towels, hand towels, wash clothes, dish clothes, kitchen towels, bed pillows, blankets or throws, storage containers, zip lock bags, aluminum foil, saran wrap, a set of pots and pans, pizza pans, cookie sheets, drinking cups, dishes, silverware, trash cans and bags, cooking utensils.
In other business, the board: Heard from Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office Capt. Travis Marsh the office should get 20 mobile radios Friday, Feb. 11, and the office’s portable radios are expected to come in March.
The three occupants and two dogs were reported to have been inside of the home when the fire was discovered by the occupants and they were able to escape.
Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory, Benton Township, Cromwell/Sparta Township and Milford/Van Buren Township fire departments all provided assistance. Milford/Van Buren Township Fire Department and Lutheran EMS provided stand by assistance for Turkey Creek FireTheTerritory.property owner is listed as Debra Anderson. The structure and contents are considered a total loss as a result of the fire with damages estimated at more thanThe$500,000.causeof the fire remains underInformationinvestigation.regarding assistance to the occupants and dogs is available on the Turkey Creek Fire Territory Facebook page. The fire territory officials would like to express appreciation in advance to the community for always showing up to help local residents in need.
Bowling
In the medley relay, 50 and 100 freestyles, state records fell in front of Wawasee swims. Carmel lowered its own standard in the medley with a 1:38.55, Penn’s Lilian Christianson posted a 22.14 record in the 50, and in the prelims of the 100 free, Bloomington South’s Kristian Paegle went 48-flat before returning to win the title on Saturday at 48.29.Inall, the state meet saw nine swimming records set, six by Carmel, which extended its national record team championship streak to 36 in a row, once again blowing away the field. Concord finished fourth in its best-ever team finish and Minuteman senior Grace Brenneman was named the Mental Attitude Award winner. Penn would finish sixth and Northridge ninth among the area teams. Northridge divers Jiselle Miller, Kaitlin Simons and Evie Long all finished in
the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin. Four players on the roster are listed from Indiana, three from the Indianapolis area and one from Merrillville.
East Chicago the final stop for Wawasee wrestling
Liston made the comment following her team’s 97.8-86.975 loss to Elkhart. It wasn’t a bad meet for Wawasee, just more reality its team isn’t equipped to shoot high for the likes of Elkhart, DeKalb and Angola, which will all be on hand for the sectional Feb. 26. What Thursday night’s meet signified was a chance for Liston’s squad to get another shot on its home equipment and get some of those on the sidelines more time to heal up ahead of the tournament.Brightspot of the night for the hosts was Talia Kuhl, who rebounded from a nightmarish beam routine to flip to a 9.2 on floor, far and away the best routine of the night and tied for her best mark of the season. Kuhl also hit a pair of connecting skills on the uneven bars to post an 8.0 to lead the eve-
With just over two weeks left in the regular season, Wawasee gymnastics has already had the reality session about its intent.
“I hope that our kids, parents and fan base understand that when you come to the Indiana high school state meet, swimming against people who swim year-round, it’s assumed you can’t just show up here and do well,” started Wawasee head coach Jason Scott. “For kids like we had who swim four months out of the year because they are in other sports, the opportunity to see them come to a meet like this and do what they did, I am just super proud of
“I couldn’t be more proud of Ethan. He did a great job as a freshman, and he has so much more ahead of him.”
the top six, Miller the runner-up.
There are two ways to view the outcomes for the Wawasee wrestling program at the East Chicago Semi-state.One,the team didn’t perform to standard in having all eight of its competitors lose and not qualify for the IHSAA State Finals. Or two, the team had more than half its program competing in a semi-state and three were knocked out in the ticket.Head coach Frank Bumgardner chose the latter.
“Herrera was just better,” noted Bumgardner. “We had some optimism and had some hope, but we were wrong. He was just more technically sound. We just had nothing to throw at him.
win of Crown Point, and Tim Shortt at 182 was pinned by Hobart’s Jake Simpson. Hunter Miller at 138 was defeated 7-2 by Valparaiso’s Stefen Vitello, and Logan Stuckman also lost by decision, a late score by Rensselaer Central’s Mason Stanley finishing a 5-4 final at “Sure,132. we are disappointed we don’t send anyone on, but we had a good day,” added Bumgardner.
Wrapping up the All-NLC list are Taylor Delp and Clare Sheedy of Plymouth, Julia Mantyla, Eva Fisher and Colleen Miller of Northridge, Asiah Shaffer of Mishawaka, Joselyn Edwards of NorthWood, and Kyra Hill of Goshen.Honorable Mentions went to Plymouth’s Lena Jones, NorthWood’s Claire Payne, Concord’s Aliyah Hershberger, Northridge’s Morgan Cross and Mishawaka’s Jadyn Handley.
“This is a tough, tough place to advance, and we weren’t favored to win any of the ticket matches. But we have nothing to be upset about, we fought hard.”
Warriors changing view, turning corner
“You don’t have tell them, they see it and they know,” Scott said of his team being part of a huge day for the Northern Lakes Conference as a whole. “We’ve talked a lot
The Firebirds, a Division III football program, was an appealing choice for Hernandez, who has played offensive and defensive line for Wawasee in his four seasons with the program, three years a starter at center. Hernandez was an Honorable Mention All-Northern Lakes Conference performer in 2021 and also served as a team captain.Hernandez also participated in track, DECA radio and TV, volunteered as a peewee football coach, and was named the senior class homecoming king.
The two also were in the middle of the 100 freestyle finals, Alexis taking sixth at 51.22, dropping .17 off her prelim time, and Julie a 51.62 for eighth, her prelim time a 51.34.The sisters were part of two consolation relays, Wawasee going 1:47.51 in Saturday’s medley relay, joined by Cammy Kryder and Hayden Neer to finish 12th overall. In the 400 freestyle relay
The ICGSA honors all 10 varsity girls sports sponsored by the IHSAA with both academic and athletic honors.
The senior lineman is ranked No. 75 in his class and carries a 3.4 GPA. His ambition is to study business management and marketing and minor in psychology.
Swimmers celebrate historic weekend
The NLC published its All-NLC selections for the 2021-22 season, and the champion Warsaw Tigers were well represented. The 7-0 Tigers won their first outright title in more than a decade, and Coach of the Year Lenny Krebs had Kacilyn Krebs, Bailie Stephens and Abby Sanner all named All-NLC and Zoe Bergan named Honorable Mention All-NLC.
Carter, Haines named Academic All-State
nity well as he has done all four years here at Wawasee High School. Driedyn has worked hard to put himself in this position of resuming his football career at the collegiate level. We couldn’t be more proud of him and wish him nothing but the best, once a Warrior, always a Warrior.”
Added Wawasee football head coach Jon Reutebuch, “We are excited for Driedyn Hernandez and his family as he pursues his football career at Carthage College. We know he will represent his family, Wawasee football, and the commu-
paper, however, and it was time to go to work, and Wawasee started its day with a win from Kaleb Salazar, who pinned Faith Christian’s Will Roberts at 1:58 to move to the ticket round at 106 pounds.
ning. Kuhl also had an 8.6 on vault, and save for the trio of falls on beam (6.7), Kuhl barely missed the top all-around score with her 32.5, just shy of Elkhart’s Kam Malone, who had a “Mentally,32.625.she is doing really well,” Liston said of Kuhl. “She came off beam and understood where she went wrong, and she knew she had to come back and do her floor routine. She has been so strong on beam in practice this week, it just didn’t happen for her tonight. Then she comes back on floor and kills it. That’s where she’s at.”Just two others were full performers for Wawasee, Kenady Meerzo with her better efforts on vault (8.05) and floor (8.0), and Zaylee Guy, her better scores also coming on vault (7.75) and floor (7.8).Olivia Ousley returned to the
6 www.the-papers.com — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wednesday, February 16, 2022
Julie Mishler had the top finish
The remainder of the list for the Warriors all found their seasons end in round one.
History was made for the Wawasee girls swim program this past weekend at the IHSAA Girls Swimming State WawaseeFinals.hadboth Alexis Mishler and Julie Mishler podium in two events each and a pair of relays swim in consolation finals at IUPUI to help the team to its best state finish
to close the meet, Wawasee posted a 3:33.01 to land 11th overall, the two sisters joined by Lilly Tyler and Addison Beasley. The 400 relay had set a school record of 3:31.77 in the state prelims, and the medley relay rewrote the school record at the sectional, going 1:45.82.
Wawasee had two make the list, Kennedy White named All-NLC and Jada Carter named Honorable Mention All-NLC. The Lady Warriors tied for fifth in the conference with a 2-5 mark, matching NorthWood and Goshen.
Salazar’s run, which included Northern Lakes Conference, sectional and regional titles, ended in the quarters at East Chicago against Portage’s E’Shawn Tolbert, the Portage sophomore getting a pair of takedowns and near falls in the third period to pull away for a 12-4 major Wawaseewin.had two more win their first match and move to the ticket
“In reality, it showed the depth we have,” eluded Bumgardner, which the nine total advancers from the Penn Regional matched his personal best. Eight were able to carry onto semi-state. “We lose just one senior, which just means these younger kids have that much more experience ahead of them.”
Their season on the court is over, but a pair of Wawasee girls basketball players have been honored for their work off the playingWawaseesurface.seniors Emily Haines and Jada Carter were both named
Injuries have derailed about half of its roster in some form, leaving the team scrambling most meets to field a full roster. With the Wawasee Sectional looming at the end of the month and just a couple regular season meets left, head coach Molly Liston and her squad have shifted focus a bit.
Theever.team placed 12th overall in the final team standings, its bestever team finish, one spot ahead of the 2012 team that placed 13th buoyed by a butterfly title from Brittany Robinson. That 2012 team scored 80 points, while the 2022 team had just 73 points, but were in the top 10 after 10 events this past weekend, where both Mishler sisters gained their second state medals each in a huge day.
GPA, score at least a 1110 on the SAT or 24 on the ACT, and have appeared in at least half of her team’s games.
The Wawasee duo were part of a dozen players from the Northern Lakes Conference. Warsaw had three named in Abby Sanner, Bailie Stephens and Kacilyn Krebs, Goshen had Trinity
about what it takes to get here, and what it’s like to be here. Until you show up here and get to experience the gravity of how loud this place is, there is nothing you can compare it to.”
overall for the Lady Warriors, placing fifth in the 50 freestyle with a finals time of 23.28, just a tad slower than her prelim time of 23.16. Mishler holds the school record with a 23.01 set at the Concord sectional. Alexis Mishler was right on par with her sister, placing sixth at 23.41, dropping three-hundredths from her prelim qualifier. Alexis started the 2021-22 season with a bang in the 50, clocking a 23.08 in November against East Noble to set the pace for the season.
them. I couldn’t be happier.”
In an effort to be closer to his brother, Wawasee senior Driedyn Hernandez has announced his intentions to continue his football and academic careers at Carthage College in Kenosha, Wis.
The Firebirds finished their 2021 campaign 3-7 overall under head coach Dustin Hass and compete in
home equipment for the first time since suffering an arm injury in January. Staying on just apparatus where her arms weren’t fully needed, Ousley performed on just beam and managed a 6.275. Her routine had her attempt one somersault one-handed to stay away from her bum wing, another point Liston noted in her team making progress with the injury bug.
To have that much business at what many across the state consider the toughest of the four semistates, Wawasee would actually find itself the underdog in all eight of its advancing pods, being the lower ranked to at least one competitor, if not more. Wrestling isn’t done on
round. Ethan Rodriguez’s rookie season included a first-round pin of Joseph Williams of Lake Station Edison, the Warrior freshman getting the pin at 3:39, but the favor was returned by the eventual semi-state champ at 145 in Aiden Torres, who put away Rodriguez in the third period with a pin. Cam Zimmerman also used a pin to win his opener, putting away Pioneer’s Peyton Schnurpel at 3:11. The ride would end for Zimmerman in his next appearance, succumbing to a very talented Jesse Herrera of Highland, who teched out Zimmerman 20-3.
Hernandez thrilled to join Firebirds
Liston also mentioned wounded Warriors Trinity LaJoice and Morgan Reel, both aiming to make it back by “We’retournament.hopefulthat right now we can get a full roster together by sectional,” offered Liston. “For the last few meets, it’s been Talia, Kenady and Zaylee. It’s been tough. We feel if we can get a couple of our girls back, we can at least push a little more in practice, maybe get a fourth score in there, have things be more normal in a sense.”
Noted Hernandez on the decision, “It’s a private education at an affordable price. It’s also close to my brother (who lives in Wisconsin).
Beasley also swam in the prelims of the individual medley, taking 22nd at 2:10.85 after being called up as an at-large after placing third at the sectional.
(Carthage has a) great environment and top-of-the-line facilities.”
“At this point, we kinda know what we are, and we’re starting to focus more on the individual side of things,” Liston said. “We understand as a team we don’t have enough to catch some of the frontrunner teams. So it falls to the individuals. A couple of our girls have legitimate shots, a couple of
Warrior duo among All-NLC girls hoops
Girls basketball’s season came to an end for the Northern Lakes Conference during the weekend with Plymouth’s exit in the Class 4-A regional, and with it, the postseason awards for the conference have been announced.
Sports
To be considered, players must be seniors, carry at least a 3.5
the younger girls are working on getting better for next season.”
to the Indiana Coaches of Girls Sports Association Academic AllState list. The honor bestowed upon 190 basketball players as All-State and 35 more as honorable mention (225 total) was announced last week for players around the state.
Nemeth, Northridge had Julia Mantyla and Colleen Miller, and Plymouth had Clare Sheedy, Katherine Dragani and Madelyn Mann along with honorable mention recipient Sara Hunter.
Noah Wolf at 113 was pinned by Crown Point’s Kaptur Nowaczyk, Gavin Malone at 160 was pinned by eventual champion Cody Good-
It’s easy to tell by the smile on Bill Doege’s face he’s happy to be in his new job. Beginning this month, Doege is the first-ever paid employee of the Milford Food Bank, taking on the role of the non-profit organization’s operations manager.A longtime employee of The Papers Inc., the parent company of this newspaper, Doege has been a volunteer at the food bank for the last 11 years.In truth, the tasks he was performing as a volunteer won’t change much as its only staff member, although there will be many new things he’ll be able to do with the additional time he can now commit to the food bank’s larger mission. As a volunteer, Doege was giving around 20 hours of his time each week, which was on top of his full-time responsibilities at The Papers. He knew something had to give, as he found himself missing out on family opportunities, including activities with his two youngest children, who are both teenagers.
“This is something that’s been in the works for two years,” said Doege. “I’ve known for a while that something had to change. It was starting to put a strain on my family life. I didn’t want to be the dad who was missing their activities because I was at the foodDoegebank.”said COVID slowed down the hiring process. The food bank became extra busy with the additional needs of the community and it was spending more money on purchasing food than usual. It finally was able to get its finances lined up and the position was offered to him in January. Additionally, the food bank was declared as a new independent 501(c)3 non-profit organization
“This is my calling,” he said, a wide grin spreading on his face. “It has been for 11 years. There was no way that I was going to say ‘no’ to the offer.”Doege said he has already spent a lot of time in the truck and has had the opportunity to visit with several of the food bank’s partners — something he wasn’t able to do in his limited hours he had to give as a volunteer. He is hopeful he can strengthen those relationships as well as develop new ones, which ultimately will help the food bank with its fundraising and other aspects of its mission.
“Being able to be here full time has taken a load off my shoulders,” he said. “You know when you’re in a really good job when you look at the clock and think ‘I’m running out of time.’ I’m happy to be here. God put me in this place for a reason and I’m just going to follow his lead.”
PROFILE Community Corner Local students named to dean’s list The following local students were recently named to the dean’s list of their respective colleges/universities: Trine University Leesburg — Matthew ShoemakerSyracuse — Dillon Drake Local students named to president’s list The following local students were recently named to the president’s list of their respective colleges/universities: Trine University Leesburg — Rachel Brown Milford — Jason VanderReydenSyracuse— Jordan Grindle, Carol Haldeman, Aundreya Wegener driversMealsMobile Volunteer drivers for Syracuse, Milford and North Webster Mobile Meals have been scheduled as follows: Syracuse Drivers Feb. 21-25 MONDAY — M. Smith TUESDAY — J. Rose WEDNESDAY — J. Rowland THURSDAY — C. Hill FRIDAY — S. Stump Milford Drivers Feb. 21-25 MONDAY — J. Redman TUESDAY — To be announced WEDNESDAY — J. & C. Wagoner THURSDAY — M. Webb FRIDAY — To be announced North Webster Drivers Feb. 21-25 MONDAY — G. Smith TUESDAY — Bart’s Water Sports WEDNESDAY — P. Perry THURSDAY — E. Cook FRIDAY — A. Mock Bridge Results North Webster Bridge Group North Webster Bridge Group met Thursday, Feb. 10, at the Senior Primelife Enrichment Center in the North Webster Community Center. Winners were Jean Cowan, first, and Dick Sutton, second. SPORTSMAN’S NIGHT TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE AMERICAN LEGION & LOOSE MOOSE MOTORSPORTSAtThe American Legion Herbert Kuhn Post 253, North Webster ~ Raffle & Dinner ~ March 5, 2022 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. **$40 per chance includes dinner & 13 drawings. **Only 400 tickets to be sold. **Drawings every 15 minutes. For either a gun (4 total), archery, fishing or other outdoor equipment, including gift certificates to area sportsman’s stores. WINNERS OF GUNS MUST BE 18 YEARS OR OLDER AND PASS A BACKGROUND CHECK! NEED NOT BE PRESENT TO WIN! RESERVATIONS CALL 574-834-4297 INDIANAGAMING#000237
“I’ve had more time to serve the community — go to churches, pantries, etc.,” Doege added. “I’m going to start writing grant proposals. There are lots of things to do — things I wasn’t able to do before as a volunteer. There’s also a lot of paperwork to get done that we’ve struggled to do in the past. The office is now more organized and we can go out and meet clients and different foundations, which is where the money is to support organizations like this.”One big change will be the food bank will now be open twice a week rather than once a month for the pantries they serve to come and pick up food. Doege said there is a huge need for food at the pantries and the additional pick-up opportunities will help fill that need. “They can come get what they want and be on their way.”
7Wednesday, February 16, 2022 — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — www.the-papers.comSchool
Doege named Milford Food Bank’s first employee
in January, officially changing its name to Milford Food Bank Inc.
an open house tour of the newly constructed North Webster Elementary School at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb.This19. winter’s unseasonable weather is allowing for the installation of playground equipment at North Webster Elementary School. Although the ground is muddy, crews gathered at the school last week to begin the installation process. It is believed the equipment will be completed early next week.
Members of the Syracuse Park Board stated they were impressed with the status of the
10 YEARS AGO, FEB. 15, 2012
30 YEARS AGO, FEB. 12, 1992
50 YEARS AGO, FEB. 16, 1972
Harris (Pippi Longstocking), Mary Ann Clayton (Mary Poppins), Sara Moerchen (Dolly Madison), Chris Walls (Beetle Bailey), James Jefferson (Captain Hook) and Brandi Doll (Charlotte from “Charlotte’s Web”).
Minnix, Alejandro Olivarez
Some North Webster Elementary School students got some working experience on what the Fourth Estate is like. Mrs. Melinda Roose’s fifth-graders, after studying professional newspapers, decided to try and put together their own newspaper. The “Roose’s Fifth-Grade Trojan Tribune” went
community center at the regular monthly meeting held Monday night, Feb. 11. Michael Hixenbaugh, park and recreation superintendent, reported all of the drywall has been installed in the facility while 80 percent of the building has been primed. A few windows still have to be installed, but the interior is expected to be complete by the end of March.
20 YEARS AGO, FEB. 13, 2002
CTB Inc. announced the names of its dedicated employees who achieved work milestones during the fourth quarter of 2021. The company thanks and congratulates the following employees for their recent anniversaries, ranging from five to 40 years of service:40 years of service — Dave Doll, Perry Weimer 30 years of service — John Hummel20years of service — Steven Bullock10years of service — Jose Betancourt, Joseph Curcio, Tracy
Winners were Angie Cripe (Queen of Hearts), Jamie Clevenger (Mickey Mouse), Merriah Foust (Minnie Mouse), Mike McCray (Huckleberry Finn), Jennifer Roose (Princess Leah), Lee Ann Kuilema (Peter Pan), Sherie Amick (Fern from “Charlotte’s Web”), Tonya Sue
It happened in North Webster ... 20 years ago
It happened in Syracuse ... 10 years ago
to press for its first publication on Monday.BenAshpole was the paper’s editor. The Tribune’s staff included cartoonists, sports reporters, a photographer and even a gossip columnist.Stories in the paper included announcing Vanessa Shafer as the school’s spelling bee champion on the front page, a story on principal Richard Long and an interview with the school nurse.
Donn Kesler, who has been an educator in the community for 39 years, tendered his letter of resignation for retirement effective June 30. Kesler has served the past 24 years as vice principal
Joseph Gray was elected president of the Syracuse-Wawasee Area Development Company for 1982 at the annual meeting held Tuesday, Feb. 9. Also elected were: John Call, vice president; Barbara Mort, secretary; James Caskey, treasurer. During the general meeting call, Jay Peffley and Michael Richel were unanimously approved as members of the board of directors.
The Women’s Auxiliary of North Webster firemen met February 7 with eight present at the fire station. They discussed the possibility of starting a first aid course for interested people in the community and also the annual car splash. Mrs. David Payne served pie and coffee.
New elementary school hosts open house
Patrons eagerly await the delivery of the newspapers for which the library has subscriptions. The include The Mail-Journal, which serves North Webster, Milford and Syracuse; Warsaw Times-Union; Goshen News; Fort Wayne Journal Gazette; Indianapolis Star; Wall Street Journal; USA Today; and Barron’s, a financial weekly publication. Whether it is local or national news, it is available at theWawaseelibrary.
“We are very pleased to announce CTB’s latest work anniversaries, including some employees who have been with us for a remarkable 40 years,” said Michael J. Kissane, CTB executive vice president and chief administrative officer. “The company is very fortunate to have such a dedicated group of people working toward our global mission of Helping to Feed a Hungry World.”
Five years of service — Katina Deaton, Jose Franco, David Johnson, Christopher Minick, Jorge Padilla, Jonathan Roberts
It was four years in the making, but Brittany Robinson can now say she is a state champion. The Wawasee senior left no doubt she was the top butterfly swimmer in the state Saturday, charging out to a commanding preliminary time at the IHSAA Girls Swimming State Finals Friday night and making the effort stand up Saturday. Her state record time of 53.41 was more than 1.5 seconds faster than runner-up Hannah House of Carmel.
At a meeting held last week,
the second meeting of shareholders of the Syracuse Community Development Corp., it was decided an architect is to be hired immediately to prepare possible building plans for the uptown Pickwick block. To date, the amount of monies received into the corporation stands at $55,015, however, a spokesman this week stressed that is hoped more will be received from individuals or businesses willing to become shareholders and stock is still available by contacting Robert Jones at the State Bank of Syracuse.
10 YEARS AGO, FEB. 15, 2012
The Wawasee Community School Corp. Board of School Trustees welcomes the public to
40 YEARS AGO, FEB. 17, 1982
Three judges, Julia Rhodes, Julie DuBois and Judy Roose, selected the best costume in each classroom.
To Place A Classified Ad, Call (574) 457-3666, Syracuse Or (574) 658-4111, Milford ANNOUNCEMENTS INDEX INSTRUCTIONFINANCIALFARMEMPLOYMENTBUSINESSANNOUNCEMENTSCLASSIFIEDSPhoneOrFaxInYourAdBefore11A.M.TuesdayMILFORD574-658-4111FAX800-886-3796WARSAW574-269-2932FAX888-371-2934SYRACUSE574-457-3666FAX888-511-7914....................A005-A100SERVICE...................C010-C430.............................E010-E080...........................................G010-G070..................................H010-H030.............................K010-K020 $875ONLY*15WordMaximum ONE COLUMN BOXED ADS $7.20 per column inch for one to three insertions. $5.70 per column inch for four or more insertions of the same copy. Please take the time to make sure your classified ad is correct. The Papers Incorporated will not be responsible for errors in ads after the first publication. Ad position other than classification is not guaranteed. LEISURE, RECREATIONAL ........M010-M110 MERCHANDISE ...........................P010-P290 PETS ............................................Q010-Q030 REAL ESTATE SALES ................S010-S110 REAL ESTATE RENTALS ............U010-U120 TRANSPORTATION .....................W010-W100 ALLADSCLASSIFIEDMUSTBEPRE-PAID BUYER BEWARE The Papers Incorporated cannot screen all advertisements to eliminate possibilities of fraud or misleading information. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Persons responding to ads are advised to contact the Better Business Bureau in your area or the Indiana Secretary of State’s Fraud Hotline before sending any money. 1-800-223-8791 Auction Sales A010 Free Free A040 SCRAP METAL REMOVAL - Lawn tractors, push mowers, appliances and any other misc. scrap metal. Also take batteries. Do not take TVs or electronics. Milford, Syracuse, Cromwell area. 260-856-5912. BUSINESS SERVICES Child Care Services C060 CHILD CARE - My home, any age, 4am to 5pm. 574-533-8061. References available. Tree Service C390 Call Dan The Tree Man 574-831-4381 New Paris • Tree Removals • Competitive Prices • Tree Trimming • Free Estimates • Storm Damage Cleanups • Climbing Or Bucket Lift Available GeneralEMPLOYMENTEmployment E030 LEISURE, RECREATIONAL Camping M030 WANTED: Old electronic equipment, CB radios, ham radios, stereos and radio tubes. Jeff, 574-274-4632. Plumbing • Electrical • Roof Repairs • Windows All Interior & Exterior Remodeling WE DO IT ALL, SO GIVE US A CALL. NO JOB TOO SMALL. Dependable & Fully Insured - Free Estimates Cheerfully Provided WAWASEE COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION is looking for Help. Transportation - Bus Drivers, Sub Drivers, Paraprofessionals Facilities - Custodians, Sub Custodians and Grounds Routes Average Over $90/Day, Trips Pay $15.68/Hr. We Train You, Pay For Your Physical and Licenses Custodians Pay $14.00/Hr., Sub Custodians $11.50/Hr., Grounds $12.53/Hr. Complete An Application Online At: www.wawasee.k12.in.us WAWASEE COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION An Equal Opportunity Employer For Additional Information: (574) 457-3188 CustomersReachingIsInTheBag
Students at North Webster Elementary School were allowed to dress up like a book character they have read about Tuesday, Feb. 9.
30 YEARS AGO, FEB. 12, 1992
20 YEARS AGO, FEB. 13, 2002
8 www.the-papers.com — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wednesday, February 16, 2022
Community School Corp. has a program helping special needs students learn functional skills, the school board heard during its regular monthly meeting Tuesday evening in Syracuse. All of the elementary level students are bussed to North Webster Elementary. The goal of the program is to help students become as independent as possible.
50 YEARS AGO, FEB. 16, 1972
of Wawasee High School. He has more years than any other employee of the school system.
Cindy Rinker, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thurman Rinker of North Webster, has been included on the first semester dean’s list at Anderson college. She is a junior majoring in elementary education.
Manchester College has released its dean’s list for the fall 2001 semester. Among the students named is Dana Clousing, North Webster, a first-year financial accounting major.
40 YEARS AGO, FEB. 17, 1982
A donkey basketball game featuring members of the ParentTeachers Organization and the faculty promises to bring fun to the North Webster school gym next Tuesday. The game is set to begin at 7:30 p.m.
CTB Inc. announces employee service milestones
Robinson sisters shine, Brittany emerges as state fly champion
A proposal to continue the annual Memorial Day weekend Milford Fest celebration a little later into the evening met with approval from the town council during a regular meeting of the council Monday evening. Representatives of the Milford Lions Club told council members Dan Cochran, Bob Cockburn and Doug Ruch the planning committee for the event would like to contract a disc jockey and plan a street dance from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. or 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. that Saturday.
aware that would require a rezoning.Their daughter, Katy Stoller, represented them and said they want to rent out the remaining space in the old church. The petition was recommended for approval by the APC and will now be considered by the county commissioners Feb. 15.
Van Buren Township Board
Starting April 1, Milford residents will see increases in water and wastewater rates. Milford Town Council approved the increases in a hearing held Monday evening, Feb. 14, prior to Milford Town Council’s regular monthly meeting.
Urbin also criticized recent council votes to suspend late fees on utility bills. “The spending has to slow down,” he exclaimed.
Any person charged with a violation of this ordinance, in lieu of being charged for such violation in Court for the penalties prescribed herein, may, within thirty (30) days of being charged with said violation, pay to the Clerk-Treasurer of the Town of Silver Lake, for the benefit of the Motor Vehicle Highway Fund of said Town, the sum of the violation, plus an additional One Dollar ($1.00) for each day after the 30th day from the Introducedviolation.onthe9th day of February, 2022, and adopted by the Town Council of the Town of Silver Lake, Kosciusko County, Indiana on this 9th day of February, 2022.
She said the Lions hope to talk soon with Beer and Jessop Amusements, which organized the 2021 event following the Lions’ decision to pull out after citing COVID-19 concerns.
Marquart also requested street, water and park employees receive a raise in clothing allowance from $300 to $400 per year, as well as a change in standard operating procedures to include the purchase of pants.The council denied Marquart’s request to replace an employee. Long cited the water rate increases, the hiring of part-time summer employees and the ability of one employee to move between departments as factors in the decision.
hspaxlp
AN ORDINANCE CONCERNING WEIGHT LIMITS ON ROADS WITH UNDERGROUND CULVERTS IN SILVER LAKE
In other business, four petitions were presented to the planning commission. Richard and Kathy Schlipf asked to rezone property from public use to agricultural on CR 425W at the intersection with CR 1000N in Jefferson Township, west of Milford. The Schlipfs purchased an old church building in about 2003 and remodeled part of it as a single-family home, but weren’t
Tonya Conley, Clerk-Treasurer
20 YEARS AGO, FEB. 13, 2002
The Kosciusko County Drainage Board held a Special Meeting on February 10, 2022 at 9:00 a.m. on the following drain to award the contracts. Welch James Drain Reconstruction
Paul and Kelley Faler petitioned to rezone ground from commercial to residential on Hatchery Road at the intersection with Hiawatha Lane in Turkey Creek Township. The property is located near a public access point for Lake Wawasee and also near the old fish hatchery
During street, water and park reports, the council granted Superintendent Steven Marquart’s request to purchase 40 tons of road salt
The Drainage Board awarded the Installation contract to LDP Excavating for $89,000.00TheDrainage Board awarded the Material & Supplies contract to Shankster Bros for $125,942.23.
(a) Pleasant Street at the Channel; (b) Pleasant Street at the Ditch by Courtland Drive; and (c) Dixie Drive West of North Courtland Park Drive Ext.
(2) the owner or operator of the vehicle deposits with the Town security in the form of cash, a letter of credit, or bond from an insurance or binding company, in an amount to be determined by the Town Council, which would be sufficient to pay for the repair of all unreasonable damage or extraordinary maintenance expenses which may be caused by the operation of the vehicle.
40 YEARS AGO, FEB. 17, 1982
Planning commission given report on Forward Kosciusko County
open to the public and entry is $10 per Doorsperson.willopen at 6 p.m. and the program will begin at 6:30 p.m. Call (574) 372-2340 or visit bit.ly/34ndwsY to RSVP.
She noted collaboration from many entities was sought from the beginning and the goal is to get solid data, not just opinions. A comprehensive plan is typically used by county staff, local or municipal staff and organizations and businesses.
30 YEARS AGO, FEB. 12, 1992
Major renovations of The Papers Incorporated main office in Milford could begin as early as next week. When renovations are completed the former Masonic Lodge hall will become part of the newspaper and printingMembersplant.of the Milford Kiwanis Club entertained their spouses and
The council also voted to waive community building rental fees for Milford Cub Scouts to hold their cake auction from 5-9 p.m. April 22. Milford Town Council will hold a special meeting at 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 28, to open bids for Community Crossing street work, vote on the annexation of North Park and review bids for the demolition of the house at 410 W. Catherine St.
Tammy Truex won Milford spelling bee
A county regulated ditch built in 1885 didn’t show up on the
According to Town Clerk-Treasurer Tricia Gall, residents will see a $7.56 increase in water and an $8.10 increase in wastewater bills per 4,000 gallons used, the industry standard estimate for monthly usage. This will translate to an average monthly bill of $32.41 for water and $54.60 for wastewater.
Milford boys recently competed
10 YEARS AGO, FEB. 15, 2012
Mr. and Mrs. William L. Motts of Milford will observe their 50th wedding anniversary February 26 and will hold an open house from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 27, in their home, Milford. Hosts will be their children, Tim Motts of Syracuse and Mrs. Thomas J. (Connie) Roderick of Bloomington, Ill. Mrs. Herbert Baumgartner of Milford recently returned from several weeks of visiting and sightseeing with friends and relatives in Florida. She was a guest of Mrs. Don Cecil at Punta Gorda. do solemnly affirm under the penalty of perjury that the preceding report is complete, true and correct; that the sum with which I am charged in this report are all of the sums received by me; and that the various items of expenditures credited have been fully paid in the sums stated; that such payments were made without express or implied agreement that any portion thereof shall be retained by or repaid to me or to any other person. I further affirm that a complete and detailed annual report, together with all accompanying vouchers showing the names of persons having been paid money by the township, have been filed as required by law in the office of the County Auditor, and that copies of such annual report are in custody of the Township Board and the State Board of Accounts. Said report is subject to inspection by any taxpayer of the township.
WHEREAS, the purpose of this ordinance is to promote safety for persons and property within the Town limits of Silver Lake; and WHEREAS, the Town of Silver Lake, pursuant to its authority under I.C. 9-20-13, proposes to have weight limits established on streets within its jurisdiction located above underground culverts; and
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the Town Council of the Town of Silver Lake, Indiana:
SECTION 2. All emergency vehicles and Town Highway Department vehicles, being necessary for the safety and general welfare of the community, are exempt from the operation of this Ordinance.
Gloria Jean Weller, Council Member
SECTION 3. The Town Council of Silver Lake may also exempt, or issue special permits for, the operation of vehicles weighing more than 26,000 pounds which are not exempted by Section 2 if:
ATTEST: Tonya Conley, Clerk-Treasurer hspaxlp
from Mortons at a cost of $3,766.40. The council also tabled a decision on bids to perform demolition work on the house at 410 W. Catherine, gutted by fire in February 2021. Members needed clarification on backfill work. The vote will be made at a special meeting at 5 p.m. Feb.
NOTICE OF HEARING ON PETITION FOR VACATION OF A PUBLIC WAY LOCATED IN THE PLAT OF COURTLAND PARK IN THE TOWN OF SILVER LAKE, INDIANA
You are hereby notified that on March 9, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. in the Silver Lake Town Hall, 604 N. Jefferson St., Silver Lake, Indiana, the Silver Lake Town Council will conduct a hearing in regard to a petition filed by Doris L. Weesner for vacation of a public way described as follows:
Gall responded it had been seven years since water rates were increased in 2015. Wastewater was raised 8%, roughly $3.40 for the average user, in 2019, following a
Ordinance 2022-1, allowing the transfer of $1,641.47 from the bond savings fund to the bond payment fund was approved, as well as resolution 2022-5, which allocates $750 to the maintenance of Waubee Lake Park as part of an interlocal agreement with Van Buren Township. Gall reported Milford Lions Club met to discuss stage entertainment for the 2022 Milford Fest, tentatively planned for Saturday, May 28.
SECTION 4. The Town Street Department shall post maximum weight limit signs at the above-described culvert locations and/or the entrances onto the restricted roadways, which signs shall be clearly visible to traffic on said roadways.
With this issue of The Mail-Journal the newspaper turns 50 years old. And, we’re blowing our own horn with a special section in this issue. Read about what staff members and our readers have to say about the newspaper.
Matt Sandy, Kosciusko County assistant area planner and floodplain administrator, was on hand to request the council approve the annual information sharing agreement needed for community rating recertification. According to Sandy, the Federal Emergency Management Agency is now overseeing the program rather than the Insurance Service Office. “Milford has no houses in the floodplain,” he stated.
Tammy is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wales Cory.
Clark said the goal is to get recommendations on the comprehensive plan from both the APC and county commissioners in April. A public hearing will be held at the April APC meeting.
VAN BUREN TOWNSHIP, KOSCIUSKO COUNTY, INDIANA CASH & INVESTMENTS COMBINED STATEMENT - 2021 Local Beginning Cash Ending Cash Fund & Inv. Balances & Inv. Balances Number Local Fund Name January 1, 2021 Receipts Disbursements December 31, 2021 Governmental Activities 0061 Rainy Day Fund $24,462.87 $15,000.00 —0— $39,462.87 0101 Township Fund 72,270.13 74,535.43 $59,481.52 87,324.04 0840 Township Assistance 19,750.60 18,896.44 7,511.40 31,135.64 1111 Fire Fighting Fund 72,489.67 61,356.68 38,687.00 95,159.35 1190 Cumulative Fire Fund 465,716.36 95,492.19 19,128.35 542,080.20 9999 Payroll Deductions 9.65 3,334.11 3,334.11 9.65 Total All Funds $654,699.28 $268,614.85 $128,142.38 $795,171.75 PLEASE NOTE: A complete abstract that contains the statement of receipts, showing their source; and a statement of expenditures, showing the combined gross payment; according to classification of expense to each person is available for inspection in the County Auditor’s Office. I, Rebecca L. Alles, Trustee of Van Buren Township, Kosciusko County, Indiana,
Rebecca L. Alles, Van Buren Township Trustee
Purdue Extension to host annual meeting
(1) the Town Council determines that the vehicle will not cause unreasonable damage or extraordinary expense to the roadway; or
Medard Hugh Murfin, Council President Nichole Taylor, Council Member
Town of Silver Lake, Indiana hspaxlp
in the Kiwanis Club Hot Shot contest for first, second and third place honors. All of Milford’s competitors finished first or second. Receiving firsts were Matt Haab, in grade three; Jeremy Beer, in grade four; and Jon Haab in grade eight. Receiving second were Shane Bucher, in grade two; Dan Wuthrich, in grade five; Ted Hiss, in grade six; and C. J. Harwood, in grade seven.
Kosciusko County Purdue Extension will be hosting its annual meeting March 7, at Center Lake Pavilion in Warsaw. It will be celebrating its successes in 2022 and honoring this year’s extension all stars.Stephanie Overbey, Kosciusko County Community Foundation CEO, will be the keynote speaker for the evening; dinner will be prepared by Saucy’s Barnyard BBQ and Catering. This event is
crease officers’ approachability.
The council also agreed with Urbin on the need to reinstitute late fees, which had been suspended in response to Governor Holcomb’s COVID emergency declarations. “It’s not fair to ask for a rate increase and waive penalties,” said Ruch. Late fees will resume in March.During police reports, Town Marshal Derek Kreider requested the council approve a change in uniforms to a “western style” similar to those worn by marshal offices in Texas, Montana and Wyoming. Kreider noted the new uniforms would be less expensive and easier to obtain. Moreover, he felt the switch from the more “militaristic,” tactical-style class B uniforms would help officers to “look more like public servants,” and in-
Milford Council approves water and wastewater rate increases
Users on a flat rate for wastewater will see a $9 increase if they live in town, while those living outside town limits will see an $11 increase for average monthly bills of $60 and $69Residentrespectively.JayUrbin was the only member of the public to comment during the hearing, voicing his objection in light of prior increases.
Much of the regular monthly meeting of the Kosciusko County Area Planning Commission Wednesday afternoon, Feb. 9, in Warsaw involved a virtual presentation given by Katie Clark, project manager for Forward Kosciusko County, a countywide comprehensive plan involving land use and development, impacts on transportation and utilities, future development and muchClarkmore.noted the plan began a little more than a year ago and public input is still sought. “We’re not done” and the plan is still in a draft form, she said.
SECTION 5. Any firm, corporation, or person found to have violated this ordinance shall be fined not less than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) and not more than Two Thousand Dollars ($2,000.00) per violation. Each restricted location upon which a non-exempt vehicle traverses shall constitute a separate violation of this ordinance.
Mr. and Mrs. William Motts, P.O. Box 516 of Milford, invite friends and relatives to remember them with letters and cards or phone call on their 60th wedding anniversary, Friday, Feb. 26.
Theproperty.Falers said they want to
The vision of Purdue Extension is to be a leader in providing relevant, high-impact educational programs that transform the lives and livelihoods of individuals and communities in Indiana and the world.
The findings and order of the Board are available for inspection in the office of the County Surveyor. hspaxlp
GIS, so Mike Kissinger of the APC, also the county surveyor, said a variance should be requested from the county drainage board so setbacks can be more clearly defined. Kissinger said the ditch does not presently collect or maintain anything.
Other pieces of the plan include public spaces, parks and recreation, health and wellness, natural resource preservation and“Amore.strategic action plan is under development,” Clark said, and is being targeted out to the yearPublic2045. presentations were given via Zoom beginning at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 10. Go to forwardkosciusko.com and click on
According to Nancy Levernier, director of the Milford Fest committee, the festival may be delayed a month for a better chance of decent weather. Milford Town Council members discussed the mater MondayKatienight.Jones of Milford is a member of the 2001-02 Crusader cheering squad at Valparaiso University. Jones, a sophomore at VU is majoring in psychology in the College of Arts and sciences. A 2000 graduate of Wawasee High school, she is the daughter of Clark and Judy Jones of Milford.TravisPatterson and Justin Elliott, both of Milford, switched places this year in the Syracuse Scout Pinewood Derby. Both are members of Syracuse Webelos I, Pack 3828. This year Patterson took first place with Elliott taking second in the final heat of the double elimination derby Saturday, Feb. 2, at St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church. This is Patterson’s second year participating in the Pinewood Derby giving him one first and one second. Elliot, who has participated for four years, has accumulated two first, one second and one third over his tenure in Scouts.
put two houses on the property, but were encouraged by Dan Richard, area planning director, to stop by the planning office first to talk about setbacks and to see if two houses will fit on the property.Their petition was recommended for approval and was referred to the commissioners for their consideration.
prior study by Umbaugh and Associates, which had recommended increases as much as twice that amount.Doug Ruch, council president, emphasized the rate hikes came in response to “the most detailed, definitive rate study we’ve had done so far,” referring to the most recent study done by LWG CPAs & Advisors in 2021.
REACH alerts will continue in
9Wednesday, February 16, 2022 — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — www.the-papers.com
2022 at a cost of $1,300. Gall and Marquart noted their usefulness during boil orders and snow emergencies.Autility credit of $147.13 was granted a Milford resident after having meter problems.
Beginning at the northwest corner of Lot 15 in Courtland Park, thence west on an extension of the north line of said lot to the water’s edge of Silver Lake, thence south, on and along the water’s edge of Silver Lake to the point of intersection with a westward extension of the south line of said lot, thence east on the extension of the south line of said lot to the southwest corner of said lot, thence north on the west line of said lot to the place of beginning.
Kreider said only one part-time officer was against the changes and public feedback has been nearly all positive. The council voted to modify the department’s standard operating procedures to accommodate the uniform change. Bob Cockburn votedTheagainst.council voted to purchase three new Dell laptop computers for the police department at a total cost of $5,937.40. A grant from the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force will cover $1,500 of the total.The purchase of three more Dell computers was approved for use by council members and the clerk’s office at a cost of $4,440 from Microbyte. A Microbyte employee present noted cloud-based security will also be added, which will meet coming Indiana Department of Emergency Management cybersecurity standards.During wastewater reports, Mark Brubaker said Wheeling Brothers may soon be moving in equipment to fill in holding ponds on treatment plant property. He will also be meeting with BioWaste employees and local farmers to discuss future land application possibilities.
28.The council approved $1,037.50 for BL Anderson’s repair of the chlorine feed system at the well.
WHEREAS, the Town of Silver Lake proposes to regulate the weight of vehicles operating on said streets to prevent unreasonable damage or extraordinary maintenance expenses due to the activities of heavy vehicles;
LEGAL ORDINANCENOTICENO.02-02-22
Approval was given for the plat with the condition of a sewer Terryhookup.and Joyce Shepherd were given approval for the replat of four lots in the Candlewood subdivision on Elaine Drive at the intersection with CR 400S in Wayne Township. The lots are being replatted to accommodate a retention pond and the elimination of an easement.
Also on the agenda, Jonathan and Valina Caudell asked for approval of a preliminary plat for a three-lot subdivision known as Banning Hills on CR 450N in Tippecanoe Township. The houses will eventually be connected to the Lakeland Sewer District.
“We don’t arbitrarily raise these rates,” said Councilman Ken Long, “We don’t take it lightly.” However, he added, “At the end of the day, it’s how much water you use.”
PUBLIC NOTICE February 10, 2022 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
SECTION 1. It shall be unlawful for any firm, corporation, or person to operate a motor vehicle weighing more than 26,000 pounds (13 tons) upon the following locations within the Town of Silver Lake, Indiana;
Tammy Truex, an eighth grader at Milford junior high school, won the Milford spelling bee last night. The bee was held as part of the February meeting of the Parent-Teachers organization.
Subscribed and sworn (or affirmed) to before me, the Chairman of the Township Board of Van Buren Township at its annual meeting, this 8th day of February, 2022.Stephen F. Unruh, Van Buren Township Chairman
50 YEARS AGO, FEB. 16, 1972
This report was received, accepted, and approved by the Township Board at its annual meeting, this 8th day of February, 2022.
It happened in Milford … 50 years ago
members of the Milford Lions Club and their spouses at a Valentine dinner at Camp Mack on Feb. 6. Kiwanis President Dennis Schori presided over the evening’s events with Valentine gifts presented to several couples. Entertainment for the evening was provided by Lloyd Ness of Cromwell, also known as the Bib Overalls Salesman.
Stephen F. Unruh Robert Beer Shane Bucher
To: Residents of Silver Lake, Kosciusko County, Indiana
the “Public Presentation Links” tab at the top of the website to get the Zoom links.
He describes the Syracuse congregation as one “offering hope and encouragement in difficult times in a warm and loving atmosphere with a body of believers dedicated to serving God as best they can in the example of Jesus Christ.”
HAVE YOU seen the updated sign in front of the North Webster Community Center? If you have a special message, a birthday, or anniversary you’d like celebrate, contact the center to learn how to get your message on the sign. When you do so, be sure to welcome Emily Worrell, NWCC’s new director who has been on the job for three weeks.
Additionally, the library will be holding its first board game sampler. Patrons are invited to bring your favorite board game to share or simply come to play other’s favorite board games. This brand-new adult program will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 17, in the downstairs meeting room immediately after the adult book club. Games will run until they conclude or players need to leave. The plan is for the goard game sampler to occur monthly.
THE SYRACUSE Turkey Creek Township Public Library has scheduled a lot for the month of February as a way to keep the winter blahs away. Black History Month is celebrated from Feb. 1 through March 1 and in its honor, the library’s adult book club will be reading “March: Book One,” a graphic novel by John Lewis.
—o—
HAVE YOU been to the new restaurant that has opened in Milford? El Faro Mexican restaurant has opened its doors in the building on Higbee Street that most recently housed Asian Cajun Express. Prior to that, it was home to Brick Oven Pizza and Scoops. Here’s hoping the community will support the new business and the other restaurants in town, who all are making an effort to help make Milford a better place to live and work.
Fire Board Scott also reported installation of the new mobile and base radios has been completed except for the fire/rescue boat on order with the
As the book is described: “Chicago Police Department detective ‘Mack’ McPherson returns to the Indiana Lakes community after 23 years to confront those who murdered his brother and others who covered up the crime. When they suddenly become murder victims, Mack becomes suspect number one, challenging him to track down their killer, a dangerous psychopath on his own mission of retribution.”
The Legion’s paddle auction will be Sunday, Feb. 20. The doors open at 1 p.m. and auction starts at 2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased in advance or will be available at the door.
www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC David E. Sands, AAMS® Financial Advisor 902 (800)Bus.Ligonier,SouthLincolnwayIN46767(260)894-9912860-9999 Matthew E. CFP,Schwartz,AAMS® Financial Advisor 104 E. Main St. Syracuse, IN 46567 Bus. (574) 457-0225 (866) 457-0225 Dreaming up the ideal retirement is your Helpingjob.you get there is ours. To learn more about why Edward Jones makes sense for you, call my office today.
—o—
Councell sees his faith journey as a testimony confirming John 6:44: “Jesus said, ‘No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day.’”
• Food, $6,033.25
It is worth noting, however, Herbie bucked his own species to make his selection, once again showing cats sometimes can be very dodgy when it comes to loyalty.
Congratulations to Noble Pulsipher. He was the winner of the Legion’s January gun raffle. For more information on NW Legion’s events, visit www.facebook.comAmericanLegionPost253 or call (574) 834-4297.
Township Board Township Trustee Julie Close presented both her 2021 yearly and January 2022 monthly financial reports. In January, the township made poor relief disbursements of $100 for rent, $2,369 for utilities and $299.57 for food. The township also spent $3,696.30 with Bud’s Body Shop for vehicle repairs.Thetownship wrapped up 2021 with reported poor relief disbursement totals as follows:
Rose said even though “Retribution” is a sequel, it isn’t necessary the first book is read to understand what is going on, since the backstory is explained within the pages of the second book. Both books are available on Amazon in print and digital formats.
The fire board will next meet at 6:45 p.m. Monday, March 14, in Syracuse Town Hall. The township advisory board will meet at 7 p.m.
DO YOU use Amazon? Do you love the North Webster Community Center? Would you like to benefit the center while using Amazon? When
—o—
shopping, type in: smile.amazon.com and select North Webster Community Center as your charity. A portion of everything you buy through smile. amazon comes straight to the NWCC. If you need help, see Emily at the NWCC office or call (574) 834-1600.
HOOSIER NATIVE and award-winning mystery writer Richard Rose recently published his latest book, “Retribution,” centered around Kosciusko County, including Syracuse, North Webster, Warsaw and the local lakes. The book is a sequel to his award winning novel, “The Lazarus Conspiracies,” which was published in 2013.
Lakes
• Rent, $5,175
The nondenominational church meetings are held at 1 p.m. every Saturday. “We deliver sermons and Bible studies to help edify, uplift and build up the church,” said Councell. Bible studies follow the weekly services. Afterward the as-
LOOKING FOR something fun to do this Saturday night? Check out the Candy Land Carnival sponsored by New Hope Pet Rescue in Syracuse from 5-7 p.m. There will be a life sized Candy Land game, carnival games and fun for the whole family. There is an admission charge, which is $15 for one to four people and $20 for five-plus people. There will be 50/50 drawings and raffle prizes as well as food available for purchase. Proceeds benefit the rescue.
“We are currently working with her and moving some of the administrative duties over to her position,” he reported. “We did contact the Indiana Public Retirement System in January and again last week to include her position in our PERF Hybrid Plan and we are working through that process.”
• Utilities, $28,457.32
“In these increasingly difficult times, Christians must be watching and praying always, stirring up the gift within us (God’s Holy Spirit), remaining awake, filled with zeal and embracing as much as possible that first love which we had at our calling.”
manufacturer, to be completed later this year.
semblage gathers in the church’s basement fellowship hall for a potluck meal the second and fourth weeks of each month. During the winter, the potluck is served only the second Saturday of the month. The meal usually begins around 4 p.m.The public is invited to the Saturday activities. “We are inviting our community to visit and get to know us. Therefore, we have offered to those interested to come in and share a meal and fellowship. And you are always welcome to worship with us each week.”
moval, hypothermia protocol and management, elevator rescue and basic life support.
Around
Steve Councell: helping shepherd others through dark times
• Department personnel completed 421 hours of fire and EMS training on topics such as ice water rescue, rescuer and scene safety, cold weather operations, jaws of life operation, active snow re-
In the second photo is Stan Horn of the Michiana Ice Carvers Association, keeping warm with a double-fisted supply of hot coffee he brought to his outdoor workshop on Main Street. Horn was working on a sculpture in front of Cafe Liefde in uptown Syracuse. He opted to carve his Cafe Liefde sculpture in relief, because otherwise “the stems on the leaves would be too thin and fragile.”
T
March is an autobiographical look at the civil rights movement told through the perspective of the late civil rights leader and U.S. Congressman Lewis. A discussion will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 17, in the downstairs meeting room. Copies of the book and rest of the March graphic novel series are available at the library. For more information about the adult book club contact Becky at bbrower@syracuse.lib.in.us.
and I attended church off and on. However, we didn’t truly commit at that“Intime.1995 my wife and I were drawn to God in a way we never felt before and we began to study God’s word seriously. Later that year we fully committed our lives to God and were baptized on Oct. 16, 1995, in Kentucky Lake at Land Between the Lakes, Ky.”
Staci Armbruster begins work as administrative assistant
10 www.the-papers.com — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wednesday, February 16, 2022
HE ofChamberWASEEWA-ACUSE-SYR-Com-
HERBIE DID it again! The popular house cat at Milford Animal Clinic correctly predicted the Super Bowl LVI winner. The prognosticating tabby first went to the bowl with the Cincinnati Bengals logo and took a sniff and maybe even a sample before turning his nose up and heading to the Los Angeles Rams bowl, on which he then started noshing. We’re not entirely sure what his career track record is in these kind of tests, but he definitely got the latest one correct!
IF YOU find yourself with more time than money, North Webster American Legion is looking for a volunteer at Post 253. It has numerous jobs your expertise could be used in. If you say you’re not an expert, the Legion will train you at no charge. Truly, it could use your help.
—o—
—o—
The global Church of God Ministries International is headquartered in Gretna, La., and maintains the websites www.thecogmi.org and www.gucw.org, which contains a weekly broadcast, “News Nuggets and Insights,” “for understanding of the times in which we live relative to Bible prophecy,” said Councell. For more information, contact Councell at (574) 584-2001 or secouncell@comcast.net.
“We did conduct a training session on the operations of the new radio system,” he said. “We will continue to utilize our current VHF frequency until the 700 megahertz system in the county is up and operational. This greatly enhances the ability of our department to communicate with mutual aidScottdepartments.”alsoincluded in his January report:
Church The
—o—
As for those looking for spiritual solace in today’s world, Councell advised, “I would encourage them to pray and seek God’s direction, and to also consider the doctrines of church or churches the individual is planning to possibly attend and ensure they are biblical. Follow the guidance of 1 Thessalonians 5:21: ‘Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.’”
The snow day winter challenge drawing was Feb. 8 at NWCC. The winners were Amber Sherman’s family for the Snow Day Bingo Challenge. Mandy O’Connell is the winner of the $20 Mugshots gift card. Pictured are Worrell with Sherman’s daughters, Anna and Kate. “We have already played with both of our new activities,” reported Sherman.
Speaking of celebrations, the NWCC has two new rooms now open for special occasions. Later this month, another room will be available for parties and weddings. Batting cages are also being added above the gym and will be $5 to use.
Steve Councell, pastor of Church of God Ministries International, 304 W. Main St., Syracuse, harbors no illusions about the dark times in which we live. Yet — or perhaps as a result — his favorite role as a spiritual flock-tender is “serving God’s people with a desire of helping them on their journey, in their walk with God, in growing in grace andCouncell’sknowledge.”outward look at today’s world bespeaks scriptural predictions. “We are living in the latter days. God’s word describes perilous times would come and they are upon us now, just as he said.“These are times of lawlessness, and the love of most is growing cold. Satan is the father of lies and knows he has but a short time. The trials and tribulations of life are going to continue to increase.
merce’s Winter Wonderland of Ice was a huge success. Seen in the photo above is Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Renea Salyer taking photos of one of the ice sculptures and its creator, Ryan Frauhiger of Bluffton.
Turkey Creek Fire Chief Mickey Scott told the fire and township advisory boards Monday, Feb. 14, Staci Armbruster began her duties as fire department administrative assistant Jan. 17.
The invitation is made in accordance with the church’s mission of “sharing the good news of the salvation of Jesus Christ and the coming Kingdom of God with all who will Councellhear.”began serving in the Church of God Ministries International organization as a deacon in 2005 and was ordained as a minister in October 2009. The congregation moved to its current location in Councell2017. has been married to Sandy since July 4, 1981. They have four sons — Shawn, 42; Steven, 40; Scott, 34; and Seth, 32 — 11 grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren.Asforhisand Sandy’s tandem spiritual journeys, he said, “I began attending church when I was a young lad with my grandmother. When I was a young man, my wife
• The department responded to 15 fire and 116 EMS calls, limiting the township’s property fire loss at approximately $18,000.