the Paper - Kosciusko County - January 11, 2023

continues to serve the community after

The Lakeland Art Association has served the Kosciusko County community for 66 years and is still going strong. And you don’t need to wield a paintbrush, throw clay, know how to develop a photograph or create a sculpture to be a member.

“Anyone who loves art or is an artist can be a member,” said Melodie Koher, president of Lakeland Art Association. Membership levels are $15 for students, $30 for individuals and $50 for families. The association currently has about 65 members.

The Lakeland Art Association was founded in 1957 by a group of local artists under the instruction of Fred Olds, a former Warsaw High School art teacher. The association held its first spring art exhibition of paintings and sculptures in 1958.

The association opened a fine arts gallery in 1995. The gallery has had several locations over the years and is now located at 302 E. Winona Ave., Warsaw. It is open 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, March through December.

This time of year, the association is prepping the gallery for the upcoming season. Samara Dulik, a two-dimensional artist who works in acrylics and mixed media, and Kim Marcadis, a three-dimensional artist who creates functional pottery with color and texture, will be the opening exhibit in March.

During its season, which runs March through December, the Lakeland Art Association offers art workshops on various art forms once a month. These workshops are held the fourth Monday of the month and are free to those attending. The workshops are held at 7:30 p.m. and offer an opportunity to visit and ask questions.

The Lakeland Art Association is considered an educational 501(c)3, and it does offer art classes for both children and adults. Koher said watercolor classes are very popular with adults, while acrylic painting classes are popular with children.

Children as young as 8 may participate in the children’s art classes. Koher said instructors strive to have children in

similar age ranges grouped together in classes. Classes will resume in the spring after the gallery opens for its season.

The association also hosts other events to introduce children of all ages to art. “We do scavenger hunts in the gallery for kids so they actually have to stand and look at a piece of art,” Koher explained. What usually happens during the scavenger hunts is the children are in a corner going over their lists of clues, discussing their finds.

Scholarships are also offered to high school seniors pursuing a degree in fine art.

Each month the association hosts a featured artist exhibit. This year the association has tweaked its calendar a bit from what it has done in the past. In May it will host a showcase for Warsaw High School art students.

Its annual juried show, usually held in May, is slated to be held in June or July this year. The association’s Fall Member’s Show will be held in October, while in November and December the association will be offering a Christmas boutique and Pop-up Shops to provide a place for people to find special gifts for the holidays.

Koher said the juried show usually draws artists from Indiana, Ohio, Michigan and Illinois. She’s still trying to find artists in Kentucky to participate.

To find the artists featured for each exhibit, Koher and member Darla McCammon, who serves as curator of the Warsaw City Hall Gallery, attend a variety of local art shows looking for talent to feature. Two of Koher’s favorites art shows are the Win-

ona Lake Art Show and the Arts, Crafts & Music Festival at The Barns of Nappanee.

Exhibitors for both the association gallery and city hall gallery are selected from attending juried shows and looking at artists’ websites. Both galleries strive to have artwork that is family friendly.

“We pretty much look for artists who are new, who are unique,” Koher said.

McCammon explained both she and Koher help the artists who exhibit their work in both galleries sell their work. The Lakeland Art Association Gallery does take a small commission on artwork that is sold.

Both McCammon and Koher hope to encourage others to buy art made by local artists.

Young man hones leadership qualities and people skills through scouting

“The scouting program starts out teaching boys how to complete particular tasks to earn merit badges,” stated Carson Kerlin, Warsaw. “Once a young man reaches the Eagle Scout rank, the focus is more on leadership qualities and the ability to work with others to accomplish a project.”

Kerlin reached his goal of Eagle Scout in 2020.

“I started in Cub Scout Pack 3736 when I was in second grade,” he said. “My parents attended an information night and thought it would be a good opportunity for me. They also had a lot of respect for the Cub Scout leaders.”

Kerlin had such a great time as a Cub Scout, he advanced to Boy Scouts when he was in sixth grade. “The scouting program has a ranking system. We start out as Scouts. Then we advance to Tenderfoot, 2nd Class, 1st Class, Star, Life and finally Eagle Scout.

“As we gain in rank, the progressions shift and slow a bit. For example, we may have

to be in a leadership role for some months to move up to one of the higher ranks. Our goals also get more demanding, helping us grow as people.”

Wabash Christian Church has been the worship base for a few generations of Kerlins. “I have such fond memories of growing up in the church. It’s got an older section that houses the sanctuary that was built in the 1860s. An education wing was added in the 1960s. Between the two sections is an open courtyard that has fallen into disuse and had become somewhat of a storage area. I decided the courtyard needed some serious work and renovation.”

Kerlin’s Eagle Scout project began with his plan to clean out the courtyard area. “I enlisted some help. We not only tidied the area but redid the landscaping. Still, the air conditioning units were an eyesore. So, we continued our work by closing off that area and enclosing each unit with 6-foot-tall fencing. We continued to touch up our work as we progressed.”

The actual work took two Saturdays. However, the plan-

ning, enlistment of the work crew and picking up supplies took even longer. Thanks to the leadership of Kerlin and the willing workers beside him, it was a roaring success.

Kerlin is in his sophomore year at Indiana University, Bloomington. “I’m planning to major in philosophy. I thought at one time I’d like to go to law school. But I love academics, so I believe I’ll get my graduate degree and even advance higher. I would like to someday teach at the university level.”

Music has always been important to Kerlin. “I took 12 years of both violin and piano. Now I’m busy playing trombone for the IU Marching Hundred and Men’s Basketball Band.”

He loves life in Warsaw. His parents are Rick and Diane Kerlin. He has a sister, Camille. “I live on the lake and see our area as filled with recreational potential. Warsaw has plenty of parks, bike and hiking trails and other natural attractions. Our Scout Troop met in Kelly Park in the summertime.”

He concluded, “Scouting has filled me with fond memories. It has also given me numerous

opportunities to lead. Earning an Eagle rank was hard work. The experience afforded

me the opportunity to stretch and grow into the person I am today.”

1st Source Bank marks a decade of SBA lending leadership with latest recognition

The Indiana District Office of the U.S. Small Business Administration recently announced 1st Source Bank has received the “Gold Level Award” in the Community Lender category for the 10th year in a row.

The award honors 1st Source Bank for delivering the greatest number of SBA loans in the state of Indiana in 2022 among community banks headquartered in

Indiana with less than $10 billion in assets.

“We’re immensely proud to receive the SBA Gold Level recognition for the 10th year running, and we’re grateful to our clients for continually trusting in us as their financial partner,” said Ryan Bell, small business market manager for 1st Source Bank.

“We have a hardworking and dedicated team, and each one of

them is driven to serve our clients well by their passion to help these businesses succeed. It’s our goal to continue this work and to offer the best advice and solutions to the small businesses we serve well into the future.”

Established in 1953, the U.S. SBA is an independent agency of the federal government helping Americans start, build and grow businesses. 1st Source Bank is

Parkinson’s Support Group of Warsaw to discuss helpful hints Friday, Jan. 13

Parkinson’s Support Group of Warsaw will meet 6:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at the administrative offices of Kosciusko Community Hospital.

This month, the group will share experiences of those with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners and hear helpful hints for this new year.

Each month the support group will have an opportunity to learn more from professionals and spe-

Hoosier Lakes Radio Club to offer classes

The Hoosier Lakes Radio Club is offering Technician License classes.

The cost is $30, and the registration deadline is Sunday, Jan. 15.

To register, mail your full name, phone number, email address and check to Hoosier Lakes Radio Club, 2562 Walton Blvd. 131, Warsaw, IN 46582.

Classes will be held at 7 p.m. Feb. 15 and 22, and March 1, 8, 15 and 22. Classes will meet in the basement meeting room of the Kosciusko Justice Building at 121 N. Lake St., Warsaw.

Contact Ken Ledgerwood at KC9NWM@arrl.net for more information.

Wrong phone number

In the Jan. 11 edition of The Paper, a wrong phone number was listed in “Operation Round Up accepting first set of grant applications until Feb. 1.”

The phone number was listed as (574) 267-9101. It should be (574) 267-1901.

cialists in the community, along with receiving answers to questions, sharing experiences and encouraging one another.

Open to all members of the community, the support group meets 6:30-7:30 p.m. on the sec-

ond Friday of each month (except December), at the administrative building/classrooms of KCH. A convenient parking lot is located on Provident Drive.

For information, contact Pam Baucom at (574) 370-5709.

designated as a “preferred SBA lender,” which enables the bank to process SBA loans faster than non-preferred SBA lenders. 1st Source Bank has devoted

more than 158 years to serving small businesses and maintains a dedicated SBA department to ensure the highest level of service to their clients.

Good Neighbors

Good Neighbors is a column in which readers share friendly advice. To ask or answer questions, write ‘the PAPER’, Good Neighbors, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542; fax 800-886-3796; or e-mail abias@the-papers.com. Please no phone calls.

Editor’s Note: The Good Neighbors column is for people looking for hard-to-find or old items or for people seeking advice, not for items you can find in a local store or sell through the help of a classified ad. —o—

Freezer/refrigerator

Good neighbors: We have a large freezer/ refrigerator to give away in good condition. Needs a little bit of work. Call (574) 551-3203 and ask for Gwen or Phil.

Eyeglasses

Good neighbors: I have a number of old eyeglasses and some lenses to donate. I have asked different places, but to no avail. One place said they did, but Lions Club never picked them up so they stopped. It doesn’t feel right to throw them out. If you can help, please respond through this column.

New questions

Recycling plastic bottle caps — Can someone or an organization please tell me if there is anywhere in the area that accepts clean plastic bottle caps for recycling to create usable products? This was done for Elkhart County Fairgrounds but is no longer done. The place where I used to deposit caps is no longer accepting them. Please advise. There are thousands of bottle caps thrown into landfills that could be used to create lasting products. Reply through this column. — A reader

Egg cartons — Wanted: Good, clean egg cartons. Reply through this column. — A reader

Evaporator — Would anyone have a small evaporator you no longer use? We would like to put it to good use this next maple syrup season. Call (574) 633-4054.

Beacon returns over $1.3M to member-owners

In appreciation for memberowners’ dedication and the credit union’s strong operating performance in 2022, the Beacon Credit Union board of directors returned over $1.34 million in loan interest to qualifying member-owners.

The money returned to borrowers was in the form of a loan interest rebate. Those receiving the

rebate were member-owners who, during 2022, paid interest on a loan that was not delinquent and remained active as of Dec. 31.

“2022 was a great year for Beacon Credit Union, thanks to the support of our member-owners,” stated Kevin Willour, president/ CEO.

“The loyalty of our member-

owners to save and borrow from us year after year contributes to our ability to return earnings in the form of an loan interest rebate.”

Beacon Credit Union has averaged more than $1 million in yearly loan interest rebates for member-borrowers over the past 15 years.

Mizpah Shrine Circus is Jan. 27-29 in Fort Wayne

The 77th annual Mizpah Shrine Circus is Jan. 27-29 at the Memorial Coliseum, Fort Wayne.

This family-friendly event features exotic animals, clowns and many other performers and attractions.

Some acts over the years have included White and Gold Tigers; Mongolian Strong Man, Tulga; Horsemanship by Erika Zerbini; Tarzan Zerbini Elephants;

the Wheel of Death; The Flying Trapeze; and Here Comes the Clowns!

The circus includes three rings of fun and offers pony and elephant rides. There will be an opportunity to see the animals up close before and after each circus performance downstairs in the Circus Fair.

Tickets are for sale at the Memorial Coliseum Mizpah Shrine

Circus Box Office, 4000 Parnell Ave., Fort Wayne. Tickets are also available through mizpahshrinecircus.com through TicketMaster. Tickets range in price from $16 to $25.

Show times are 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27; 10 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 29.

For more information, visit mizpahshrinecircus.com.

Purdue Extension to host land leasing strategies workshop series

Build your land management and leasing knowledge while networking with other women in agriculture at Purdue Extension’s upcoming workshop series for landowners and tenants.

The series will be held virtually and at various sites throughout Indiana, including here in Kosciusko County, from 5:30-8:30 p.m., Jan. 18 and 25 and Feb. 1 and 8.

“The Power of Negotiation and Communication: Land Leasing Strategies for Midwestern Ag Women” is a three-state collaboration of extension women in agriculture programs at Kansas State University, Purdue University and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Sessions will be held simultaneously at multiple locations in Kansas, Indiana and Nebraska.

These workshops will help raise your awareness of local land values and cash rental rates, along with the factors that influence them. Whether you are a landlord or a tenant, you’ll learn more about the importance of having a written lease, what should be included in it and how to ensure it is

equitable for both parties.

Participants will hear from keynote speakers streamed live to dozens of workshop sites in all three states. Each site will also host local speakers and hands-on activities. Attendees will have the chance to ask questions of local extension experts while learning negotiating strategies and best practices to improve the landlordtenant relationship.

The workshop costs $50 per person, and participants should plan to attend each session. A virtual option is available for those unable to attend a workshop site, although in-person attendance is highly encouraged to better network with other attendees and interact with speakers. Registration is required by Jan. 13. The Kosciusko County host site will be at the Purdue Extension Office, 202 W. Main St., Warsaw.

Find more information and register at puext.in/PowerOfNegotiation.

The material is based upon work supported by USDA NIFA under Award Number 202170027-34694.

L.I.T.E. to hold author discussion on coping with grief

Living In Transition Effectively will be hosting an author discussion with Thomas L. Rose, author of “Balloon in a Box — Coping with Grief,” at 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 16, in the Milford Methodist Meeting House, 210 W. Catherine St., Milford.

“Balloon in a Box — Coping with Grief” is a version of Rose’s own journal through the grief of

Free dinner in Pierceton

Pierceton’s Free Community Dinner will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19, in the Catholic Church parking lot.

The public is invited to this free meal, which will include goulash, garlic bread, corn, fruit and cookies in a carry-out container to take and eat in the comfort of your own home.

The committee is going to continue hosting a drive-thru dinner, as many customers take home dinners to others who cannot get out this time of year.

This is a free meal, but donations are accepted.

losing his wife. Rose will begin speaking at 6 p.m. for about 45 minutes.

He’ll take time afterward for questions, comments and sharing.

He will also be speaking about L.I.T.E.’s grief class, which begins Tuesday, Jan. 31, using the book.

This is a free event. L.I.T.E. will have copies of the book for sale at the event. If money is an issue, they have a few donated copies available.

Warsaw’s Hogan is January Kosciusko Veteran of the Month

Jerry and Sally have seven children, 11 grandchildren and two great-granddaughters.

Warsaw native Gerald “Jerry” Hogan is the January Kosciusko County Veteran of the Month.

Hogan was recognized at the Kosciusko County Commissioners meeting Tuesday, Jan. 3. Kosciusko County Veteran Service Officer Darryl McDowell presented Hogan with a certificate and read biographical information on him.

Hogan was the first Warsaw Community High School student appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., being commissioned an Officer of Marines after his time at the academy. While with the Marines, he was in Quantico, Va.; Okinawa, Japan; the Philippines; Lansing, Mich.; and Camp Lejeune in North Carolina.

Hogan was part of the evacuation of Saigon, South Vietnam, known as Operation Frequent Wind. While in the military, he received the Vietnam Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal, the Presidential Unit Citation and Defense Service Medal. Hogan became a captain before resigning to enter civilian life, having spent six years on active duty.

As a civilian, Hogan worked in various management positions for 20 years, with most in the electronics component industry. In 2000, he started his own business, training others in leadership, sales, process efficiency and behavioral analysis.

He’s been semi-retired since 2020 and enjoys time with his wife, Sally, and goldendoodle Winston.

Hogan has been a member of American Legion Post 49 of Warsaw for 36 years and is a Veterans of Foreign Wars post life member. He also has membership in the Marine Corps Association and U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association. Hogan has worked to support active and reserve troops.

He is a former commanding officer of the Indiana Guard Reserve’s Warsaw Unit and was the area Blue and Gold officer for a few years. The latter involved working with admissions support for the U.S. Naval Academy.

Hogan also served on the Indiana

State Senate’s military and veterans affairs commission and as a captain in the Civil Air Patrol. He is the area vice chair of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, with that Department of Defense organization helping military members and employers interpret the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act.

Hogan, who spoke at last year’s joint Veterans Day ceremony in Warsaw involving American Legion Post 49 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1126, said he “appreciate(d) the honor” Tuesday.

“I accept this on behalf of all veterans. All who served are worthy of our respect and our recognition,” said Hogan.

Art in Action —

Art museums of Notre Dame thrive

Visiting the Snite Museum of Art in Notre Dame is a treat for the whole family. There is a long history of collecting and displaying artwork at Notre Dame University.

The history of public art at Notre Dame started in 1874 when Vatican artist Luigi Gregori was hired to teach art and decorate the interiors of the Main Building and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. By 1917 the art collection had grown enough to fill four galleries in the newly built library, Bond Hall.

As the collection of art continued to grow through donations, in 1952 Ignatius A. O’Shaughnessy funded the construction of O’Shaughnessy Hall, which included the construction of the O’Shaughnessy Art Gallery.

This was followed by a donation of $2 million dollars in 1976 from

the Snite Foundation to fund a new building on campus, the Snite Museum of Art. The new museum includes 70,000 square feet for art exhibitions and, with more than 25,000 permanent pieces of art, is considered one of the finest university art museums in America. There are 11 permanent collection galleries and five special galleries that change periodically, on display in the museum. The permanent collections are:

• Recent Acquisitions

• African

• American

• Decorative Arts

• European Painting and Sculpture

• Mesoamerican

• Modern & Contemporary

• Native North America Arts

• Photography

• Prints & Drawing

• George Rickey Sculpture Archive

In 2017 the lead gifts for the construction of a new art museum were announced. The Raclin Murphy Museum of Art of Notre Dame will be a prominent element of the university’s new arts district that brings art and architecture together on the south end of campus. The museum will be built on the corner of the Charles B. Hayes Family Sculpture Park and joins the Matthew and Joyce Walsh Hall of Architecture and a future new home for the Department of Art, Art History & Design.

The new Raclin Murphy Museum of Art was scheduled to be completed in June 2022 but is not yet finished. The school’s website has not been updated with any new information on a completion date.

The Snite Museum is located on the south edge of the University of Notre Dame campus in Notre Dame. The museum has activities, especially for families and children, including interactive tours and hands-on activities to keep children engaged and interested.

The museum offers “A Look & A Book,” a tote bag that focuses on a work of art in the museum and includes questions, a picture book, and an in-gallery activity. Snite Bingo is offered for children of all ages and challenges observation skills as children try to find artworks that match the descriptions on the card.

The Museum is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday (until 7:30 p.m. every Thursday). Admission to the Museum is free.

For more information, call (574) 631-5466, which is staffed 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The website for the museum is sniteart-

museum.nd.edu.

Events

• Honeywell Arts and Entertainment Call for Artists Show: The entries for the Honeywell Arts and Entertainment contest will be on display Jan. 5 to Feb 12 at the Honeywell Centers Clark Gallery in Wabash. For more information, call (260) 274-1411 or visit honeywellarts.org.

• Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery: Artist Deana Harvey will be dis-

playing her acrylic artwork beginning Jan. 11 through the end of March.

To exhibit at Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery, contact Darla McCammon, curator, at (574) 527-4044 (leave a message) or mcdar7@gmail. com.

If you would like to offer someone a free email subscription to this weekly column, send a request including the email address to mcdar7@gmail.com.

34th annual Fort Wayne Farm Show set for Jan. 17-19

The Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, Fort Wayne, will host the 34th annual Fort Wayne Farm Show, Jan. 17-19.

Show dates and hours:

• 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 17.

• 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18.

• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19.

Admission is free.

The Fort Wayne Farm Show has

established itself as one of the Midwest’s most respected farm shows, featuring the latest technology the industry has to offer. More than 30,000 farmers attend the show annually to view the area’s largest variety of farm equipment and services in one location.

The Northeastern Indiana Soil & Water Conservation District, along with Purdue Cooperative Extension Services, will present educa-

tional seminars daily. This year’s grand prize will be a Toro MyRIDE zero-turn lawn mower, courtesy of Plevna Implement, 102 Peckhart, Auburn.

In support of Indiana’s FFA Scholarship Foundation, fundraising auctions will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, featuring a variety of donated items. The last auction raised more than $22,000 for scholarships.

Resources available for blocking TikTok and other social apps

Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita reminds parents they have resources available to help them supervise their children’s online activity, including blocking apps such as TikTok.

“Even as we take actions to hold TikTok and other Big Tech companies accountable, we also recognize and respect the primary role of parents in looking out for their kids’ best interests,” Rokita said. “We’re here to support Hoosier moms and dads in every way possible.”

To learn more about monitoring

and controlling kids’ activity on Apple devices such as iPhones and iPads, parents should go to support.apple.com/en-us/HT201304.

For parents of kids using Android devices, visit support.google.com/ googleplay/answer/1075738?hl=en

In December Rokita filed two lawsuits against TikTok related to false claims made by the company about its video-sharing app.

The first lawsuit alleges TikTok has lured children onto the platform through a variety of misleading representations indicating the app contains only “infrequent/

mild” sexual content, profanity or drug references — when in reality the app is rife with extreme examples of such material. An essential part of TikTok’s business model is presenting the application as safe and appropriate for children ages 13 to 17.

The second lawsuit asserts that TikTok has reams of highly sensitive data and personal information about Indiana consumers and has deceived those consumers to believe that this information is protected from the Chinese government and Communist Party.

APC tables three cases, approves TIF district

Circle in Wayne Township.

Girl Scouts receive $5K grant from Duke Energy Foundation

Girl Scouts of Northern Indiana-Michiana recently received a $5,000 grant from Duke Energy Foundation to support the Girl Scout Leadership Experience in Cass, Fulton, Huntington, Kosciusko, Miami, Wabash, Wells and Whitley counties.

The GSLE focuses on building skills in four areas: STEM, the outdoors, life skills and entrepreneurship.

Highlights of recent Girl Scout troop activities held in these counties included:

• Troop 10390 in Whitley County held a special ceremony at the Peabody Library honoring graduating seniors and Gold

Award recipients.

• Courtney Tobin in Troop 10390 earned the Girl Scout Gold Award by creating a “Kindness Box,” a 24/7 emergency nonperishable food box open to her community.

• Troop 53008 in Huntington County made gingerbread houses, learned to make soap, took a class in self-defense and tried their hand at making pottery.

• Girl Scouts in all the counties sold Girl Scout cookies, including Troop 00044 in Wells County and Troop 00463 in Huntington County.

To learn more about Girl Scouts and register, visit gsnim.org.

Rethink your New Year’s resolution

change for fun, it will only increase your chances of sticking with it.

Several cases were heard at the regular meeting of the Kosciusko County Area Plan Commission Wednesday, Jan. 4. Three requests were tabled until next month’s meeting.

Kosciusko Development petitioned for preliminary plat approval for a 51-lot residential development on a 19.585-acre tract of ground. The property is located on the south side of CR 1250N, north of Beer Road in Milford in Van Buren Township, just east of North Park. The board tabled the request until the February meeting.

Barrett McManus petitioned for the preliminary plat approval for the replat of one lot in Deeds Creek Manor. The property is located on the west side of Old Orchard Drive, east of Timberline

There is a drainage utility easement on the back of his lot. His request was tabled for a month for the county’s drainage board to review his preliminary plat proposal.

Edd Allen’s petition for an appeal was undecided. He is requesting to amend self-imposed restrictive covenants associated with the rezoning request to originally rezone the property to commercial.

Allen wants it amended due to previous cases by allowing modular homes sales and display as shown on the submitted site plan. The property is located on the west side of SR 13, south of CR 400N in Tippecanoe Township, a mile south of North Webster.

The board decided it needed more information to move forward and the case will be heard at the APC meeting next month.

Two residential Tax Increment

Financing district cases were heard. One was approved and one was tabled. The site of the former South Shore Golf Course in Syracuse was approved by the board. The county commissioners will take action on the case at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 17.

An 18-acre residential TIF district in Etna Green was also approved. The property is located south of Remembrance Park. There are no residential plans yet. The matter will be heard at the next Etna Green Town Council meeting either Tuesday, Jan. 10 or Feb. 14.

The election of officers for the 2023 operating year was held. Officers are Lee Harman, president; Kevin McSherry, vice president; and Mike Kissinger, secretary.

The next meeting is at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1, in the county courthouse, Warsaw.

It’s that time when we start to ring in the new year with friends, family and New Year’s resolutions. We begin to make plans for what we expect the future to hold.

As the new year approaches, the past can feel overwhelming with the pressure to change yourself. While we think we are setting ourselves up for success by establishing several goals, we don’t always stop and think about whether the goals or resolutions are obtainable or not. It can begin to feel like an immense amount of pressure to stabilize yourself quickly and efficiently.

What many people don’t understand is that sometimes it’s easier to start small. Instead of setting one large goal for the year, try setting a monthly goal instead. This gives you a way to measure your goal in an obtainable way versus giving yourself a large length of time to complete it.

Try to reframe your way of thinking about the new year. It’s a chance for new opportunities, changes in habits, etc. By reframing your mind to think that you are making this

An example of this could be saying in January you would like to eat more fruits and vegetables. Instead of saying the boring old “well, I’m doing this for my health”, say “I’m going to explore new recipes and use seasonal ingredients.” There are ways to be intentional and fun at the same time.

Before setting up your New Year’s resolution, ask yourself a few questions. Is it practical? Does it align with my values? Does it provide healing or growth? We are usually surrounded by people who are spouting off their New Year’s resolutions left and right and we begin to feel the pressure of altering our own life without pause or hesitation.

Before embarking on a new goal, consider the negative effects it may have. Will it be physically or mentally challenging? Laying out the pros and cons before you begin will help better prepare you all around.

While it is great to be ambitious, it can quickly wreak havoc on other parts of our lives if we aren’t careful and considerate of the effects. Take caution, open your peripheral vision to see the bigger picture, and never be afraid to go slow. It’s your life — you are your own advocate.

Lois W. Alexander

Lois W. Alexander, 87, South Bend, formerly of Goshen, died at 6:30 a.m. Jan. 3, 2023.

She was born Nov. 10, 1935. On Feb. 25, 1956, she married Robert Alexander. He preceded her in death July 8, 1995.

Surviving are her children, Cindy Shallenbarger, Peggy Gall and Gail Hart, all of Goshen, and Timothy Alexander, Warsaw; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren and one on the way; and siblings, Fred “Fritz” Stearns, Preemption, Ill., Jerry Stearns, Viola, Ill., Kenneth Stearns, Milan, Ill., and Connie Smith, Muscatine, Iowa.

Services were held Jan. 7 at Rieth Rohrer Ehret Funeral Home, Goshen. Burial was in Oakridge Cemetery.

Kattie Ann Amburgy

Kattie Ann Amburgy, 65, Mentone, formerly of Rochester, died at 5:56 p.m. Jan. 1, 2023.

She was born Sept. 13, 1957. On Aug. 27, 2005, she married John R. Amburgy. He preceded her in death July 14, 2012.

Surviving are sons, Chris Miller, Upland, Nathan Miller, Fairmount, and Timothy Miller, Rochester; a grandson; siblings, Arthur Yates and Carolyn Shepherd, both of Warsaw; and stepchildren, Johney Amburgy, Corey Amburgy and Rachael Amburgy.

Memorial service will be held at noon Saturday, Jan. 14, at King Memorial Home, 101 N. Tucker St., Mentone. Interment will be in Mentone Cemetery at a later date. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to noon Saturday at the funeral home.

Jalaine K. Anderson

Jalaine K. Anderson, 85, Warsaw, formerly of Mentone, died at 11:10 a.m. Jan. 2, 2023.

She was born Oct. 10, 1937.

Surviving are her children, Jay Anderson and Beth Morris, both of Warsaw; eight grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Services were held Jan. 6 at King Memorial Home, Mentone. Interment was in Mentone Cemetery.

Robert J. Bedward Sr.

Robert J. “Bob” Bedward Sr., 96, Wakarusa, died Jan. 3, 2023.

He was born May 23, 1926. On Oct. 15, 1955, he married Faye L. Eshleman. She preceded him in death Aug. 25, 2012.

Surviving are his children, Kathy Yoder, Wakarusa, Robert Bedward Jr. and Ron Bedward, both of Nappanee; five grandchildren; six greatgrandchildren; brothers, Arden Bedward, Eau Claire, Wis., and Richard Bedward, Fall Creek, Wis.; and sisters, Dorothy Henry, Henderson, Nev., and Mavis Grensing, Ladysmith, Wis.

Services were held Jan. 7 at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Wakarusa. Burial was in Olive West Cemetery, Elkhart.

Gilberto F. Benitez

Gilberto Francisco Benitez y Richard, 69, Mishawaka, died Dec. 27, 2022.

He was born Oct. 4, 1953. On Oct. 29, 1999, he married Sandra Hackemann; she survives.

Also surviving are daughters, Kathy Rogers, Carmel, and Eleanor Wehner, Warsaw; son, Randall Wehner, Mishawaka; two grandchildren; and brother, Jorge Benitez, Goshen, Ohio.

Per the wishes of the family, no services will be held. Palmer Funeral Homes-River Park Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Anita Maxine Blocher

Anita Maxine Blocher, 81, North Manchester, died Jan. 3, 2023.

She was born Nov. 28, 1941. On June 27, 1958, she married Arthur Lee Blocher. He preceded her in death Oct. 29, 2017.

Surviving are sons, Robert Blocher, Larwill, and Patrick Blocher, Warsaw; daughters, Linda Middleton, North Manchester, and Roberta Slone, Macy; brothers, Bruce Graybill and Brent Graybill, both of Goshen; a sister, Ida Mae Graybill, Goshen; 16 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

Friends and family may call from

10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, at McKee Mortuary, 1401 SR 114 West, North Manchester. Services will begin at the conclusion of calling. Burial will be in Eel River Old German Baptist Brethren Cemetery, 2128 E. 1200S, Silver Lake.

James C. Derry

James C. Derry, 79, Warsaw, died Dec. 31, 2022.

He was born Dec. 20, 1943. On Jan. 16, 1965, he married Nancy Simmons. She preceded him in death Nov. 26, 2021.

He is survived by a daughter, Barbara Martz, Warsaw; sons, Michael Derry, Orlando, Fla., and David Derry, Warsaw; sister, Christy Matlock, Tennessee; seven grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw. McHattonSadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Jeffrey Scott Dorsey

Jeffrey Scott Dorsey, 59, Nappanee, died at 11:30 a.m. Dec. 30, 2022.

He was born Feb. 9, 1963.

He is survived by his mother, Janet Dorsey, Nappanee; father, William Dorsey, Columbia City; sisters, Deb Keiser, Granger, and Chris Weiler, Lakeville; two nephews; a niece; a great-niece; and a great-nephew.

Private family services will be held and a private burial will take place at Union Center Cemetery.

Phillip R. Fetters

Phillip R. Fetters, 72, Kendallville, died Dec. 30, 2022.

He was born Oct. 20, 1950.

Surviving are daughters, Sonya Wroblewski and Tanya Huffer; sons, Chris Fetters, Mike Fetters and Robert Fetters; 14 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Services were held Jan. 5 at Titus Funeral Home of North Webster.

Barbara Ann Frye

Barbara Ann Frye, 57, Cromwell, died Dec. 31, 2022.

She was born Dec. 7, 1965.

She is survived by a son, Jeffry Goddard; daughter, Jill Goddard; five grandchildren; one great-grandchild; brothers, Bruce Rice, Brent Rice and Burdell Rice; and many nieces and nephews.

Per her wishes, no public services will be held at this time. A celebration of life is being planned for the spring. Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse was in charge of arrangements.

Kathy M. Garrett

Kathy M. Garrett, 70, Middlebury, died Dec. 29, 2022.

She was born Jan. 19, 1952.

Surviving are her children, Joseph Garrett, Elkhart, Kierra Garrett, Middlebury, and Shauna C. Brosius, Bourbon; former spouse, Richard A. Brosius; four grandchildren; and a sister, Penelope Dann, Washington, D.C.

Visitation was held Jan. 4 at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen. A celebration of life will take place at a later date.

Samuel E. Golden Sr.

Samuel Edward Golden Sr., 89, Argos, died at 6:10 p.m. Dec. 29, 2022.

He was born Sept. 3, 1933. He married Ramona Grosvenor.

He is survived by a daughter, Dixie Warner, Plymouth; son, Samuel Golden Jr., Argos; eight grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Mary Rodway, Warsaw.

Services were held Jan. 7 at Earl-Grossman Funeral Home, Argos. Burial was in Parks Cemetery, Bourbon.

Dean Everett Hartley

Dean Everett Hartley, 72, Bremen, died Dec. 25, 2022.

He was born March 31, 1950.

Surviving are brothers, Raymond and Sam Hartley; sister, Nancy Taylor; many nieces and nephews; longstanding friend, Phil Flora; and his

love, Valerie McCollum.

A celebration of life service will be held from 5-7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at Bremen Village Apartments Community Room.

Ronald Helman

Ronald Helman, 61, Warsaw, died Jan. 4, 2023.

He was born Oct. 24, 1961. On July 23, 1982, he married Melissa, who survives.

Also surviving are daughters, Malinda Feeny and Chelsie White, Warsaw; four grandchildren; a niece; a nephew; and sisters, Tamra Gerber, Angola, and Paula Yoder, Rochester.

A private service will be held at a later date. McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Shelia J. Hoppus

Shelia J. Hoppus, 61, Auburn, died at 7:18 p.m. Dec. 28, 2022.

She was born Jan. 21, 1961. On Dec. 31, 1992, she married Michael Hoppus. He preceded her in death Aug. 9, 2014.

Surviving are siblings, Elaine Reidenbach, Ligonier, Brenda Becker, Goshen, Paula Conrad, Ligonier, Mark Brown, Albion, Terrie Robinson, Fremont, Rebecca Flannery, Columbia City, and Penny Myers, Constantine, Mich.; special friend, Marlinda; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services were held Jan. 3 at Yeager Funeral Home, Ligonier. Burial will be in Merriam Christian Chapel Cemetery at a later date.

Lee Howard Jr.

Lee Howard Jr., 70, Wabash, died at 3:40 a.m. Dec. 31, 2022.

He was born Dec. 10, 1952. On June 27, 1970, he married Linda Hooks; she survives.

He is also survived by a son, David Howard, Wabash; daughters, Tracy McMahan, Montevideo, Minn., Brenda Hetzner, Denver, and Maggie Howard, Wabash; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; two stepgrandchildren; four stepgreat-grandchildren; brother, Paul Howard, Nappanee; and a sister, Sue Clemons, Cromwell.

A celebration of life will be at a future date privately among family and friends. McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash, was in charge of arrangements.

Stephen Craig Hurst

Stephen Craig Hurst, 78, died Jan. 1, 2023.

He was born Oct. 4, 1944.

Surviving are siblings, Cindy Brown and Robert Hurst; his children, Michael McDonald, Sheryl Hurst Jones and Shannon Hurst; son-in-law, Stephen Jones; and six grandchildren.

McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Cheri Ann Kline

Cheri Ann Kline, 72, Warsaw, died at 1:30 p.m. Dec. 30, 2022.

She was born Oct. 20, 1950. On Nov. 8, 1969, she married Earl Kline; he survives.

Also surviving are sons, Duane Kline, Claypool, and Darren Kline, Warsaw; three grandchildren; and a brother, Brian Bezenah, Pickney, Mich.

Services were held Jan. 4 at Warsaw Family Worship Center. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw. Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Dianna Lynn Knapp

Dianna Lynn Knapp, 64, Warsaw, died Dec. 31, 2022.

She was born Aug. 12, 1958.

Surviving are her children, Joe Torrence and Mylisha Bennett, both of Warsaw, and Deek Dodge, Richland, Iowa; eight grandchildren; siblings, Roxanne Cagwin and Michael Knockolls; her significant other, Edd Saunders; and her cat, Samson.

The family is grieving privately at this time. A family-led celebration

of life will be held from 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, at the Courts of Colfax, Warsaw. Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Warsaw, is in charge of arrangements.

Ira Donald Lewis

Ira Donald Lewis, 90, North Manchester, formerly of Claypool, died Jan. 1, 2023.

He was born Feb. 3, 1932. On Feb. 9, 1958, he married Nancy Ball; she survives.

Also surviving are sons, Donald A. “Don” Lewis, Robert S. “Bob” Lewis and Scott A. Lewis, all of North Manchester, and Ira Jay Lewis, Claypool; daughters, Sue A. Baker, Claypool, and Kelly L. McKee, North Manchester; six grandchildren; brother, Elbert “Bud” Lewis, North Manchester; and sisters, Patricia “Pat” Brunk, West Alexandria, Ohio, Margaret Montel, Warsaw, Dorothy Marvel, Phoenix, Ariz., and Phyllis Gove, Spring Hill, Fla.

Services were held Jan. 7 at McKee Mortuary, North Manchester. Burial was in Oaklawn Cemetery, North Manchester.

Rosemarie Long

Rosemarie Long, 91, Kendallville, a longtime resident of Syracuse, died Dec. 29, 2022.

She was born May 16, 1931. She married Howard E. “Red” Long Jr. He preceded her in death April 28, 2003.

Surviving are daughters, Sheryl Cappert, Middlebury, Valerie Shipley, Syracuse, and Angela Long, Greenfield; son, Greg Long, Syracuse; 11 grandchildren; 19 greatgrandchildren; and a brother, Raymond Patnaude.

Mass of Christian Burial was held Jan. 4 at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church, Syracuse. Interment will take place following cremation at Syracuse Cemetery. A memorial service is in the planning stages for the spring. Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Danny Neer

Danny Neer, 73, Warsaw, died Jan. 3, 2023.

Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Warsaw.

Robert L. Nettrouer Sr.

Robert Lee Nettrouer Sr., 84, Goshen, died Dec. 28, 2022.

He was born Jan. 29, 1938. On Dec. 25, 1957, he married Ida Hershberger. She preceded him in death April 14, 1973.

He is survived by a daughter, Patricia Collins, Goshen; sons, Robert Nettrouer Jr., Michael Nettrouer and Steven Nettrouer, all of Goshen, and Larry Hershberger, Elkhart; 15 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; a sister, Linda Zoerhof, Zealand, Mich.; and brothers, Richard Nettrouer, Wolcottville, and Jerry Nettrouer, New Paris.

Services were held Jan. 3 at YoderCulp Funeral Home, Goshen. Burial was in Elkhart Prairie Cemetery.

Aidan C. Ouimet

Aidan C. Ouimet, 4, Goshen, died Dec. 30, 2022.

He was born Aug. 4, 2018.

Surviving are his parents, Justin and Erica (Garl) Ouimet; siblings, Elaine, Andrew and Asher Ouimet; maternal grandparents, Paula and Mike Haile, Nappanee, and Dave and Sue Garl, Bremen; paternal grandparents, Randy and Debbie Ouimet, Goshen, and Roxane Ouimet, Nappanee; and maternal great-grandparents, Harley and Betty Garl, Nappanee.

Services were held Jan. 4 at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Wakarusa. Burial was in Union Center East Cemetery, Nappanee.

Maria Elena Schlemmer

Maria Elena “Helen” Schlemmer, 88, Ligonier, died Jan. 1, 2023.

She was born Sept. 8, 1934. On

Continued from page 8

Jan. 7, 1956, she married Alvin J. “Jack” Schlemmer, who preceded her in death.

Surviving are sons, Michael Schlemmer, Robert Schlemmer, Adam Schlemmer and Joel Schlemmer; daughter, Dolores Taylor; daughter-in-law, Cynthia Schlemmer; 10 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; brother, Bill Jordan; and sisters, Rita Vigil, Mary Salcido and Lillian Brunofski.

A funeral mass was held Jan. 7 at St. Park’s Church, Ligonier. Burial followed at Oak Park Cemetery, Ligonier. Yeager Funeral Home, Ligonier, was in charge of arrangements.

Paula K. Searfoss

Paula K. Searfoss, 74, Syracuse, died Dec. 27, 2022.

She was born Nov. 16, 1948. On Aug. 14, 1971, she married Robert “RT” Searfoss; he survives.

She is also survived by her children, Olivia Searfoss, Union Pier, Mich., Audra Bowler-Searfoss, Fort Wayne, Margo Searfoss, Syracuse, Myra Nissley, Milford, Tyson Searfoss, Syracuse, and Charlotte Searfoss, Syracuse; siblings, Doug Kerlin, Kimmell, and Diane Williams, Tellico Village, Tenn.; four grandchildren; and one great-grandson.

The family will be grieving privately. Final interment will be at Syracuse Cemetery; a memorial service is in the planning stages.

Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse is entrusted with arrangements.

Otha Kellum Sevy

Otha Kellum “OK” Sevy, 88, Goshen, died at 8:41 p.m. Jan. 3, 2023.

He was born Sept. 9, 1934. On Sept. 8, 1955, he married Geneva Mayhugh. She preceded him in death Dec. 7, 2022.

Surviving are her children, Myrtis Krikau, New Paris, Vanessa

C OUNTY R EPORT

Court News

Small Claims

The following small claims have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:

Snow and Sauerteig v. Matthew D. Black, $2,939.35; v. Rachel A. Bragg, $6,182.42; v. Kendall R. Clark, aka Detar, $1,973.48; v. Todd Clay, $8,384.48; v. Cheri L. Doss, $5,669.04; v. John F. Gardner, $2,673.58; v. Lisa L. Gibbs, $1,046.45; v. Lorena Granados and Octavio Granados, $7,312.84; v. Breanne Holland, $691.45; v. Sasha Hollett, $1,271.51; v. Hal R. Holterman, $3,701.96; v. Amanda R. Hood, $10,000; v. Shana Hutcherson, $1,968.01; v. Jason Isbell, $3,802.51; v. James E. Jackson, $7,013; v. Kathy King, $1,629.43; v. Sarah Moore, aka Wolfe, $1,605.67; v. David D. Morgan, $10,000; v. Honorato Moyotl, $703.74; v. Bobbie Pelfrey, $10,000; v. Cierra Potts, $5,629.63; v. Morgan Robinson, $4,471.05; v. Jasmin E. Salazar, $934; v. Chad F. Sellers, $575; v. Heather L. Strock, $8,811.14; v. Michael Troup, $10,000; v. Michael Turner, $2,299.22; v. Krystina L. Wagner, $750; v. Stephanie N. Wood, $4,495.54

Rockhill Pinnick LLP v. Uvaldina Hermosillo, $436.13; v. Lakin Jackson, $1,503.81

City of South Bend v. Justin Wadkins, $1,093.92

Civil Collections

The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Chris Kehler presiding: Glenbrook Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Andrew J. Chavez, $10.978.61

DNF Associates LLC v. Kevin W. Fitzpatrick, $711.54; v. Kayla N. Lamb, $2,950.48

Discover Bank v. Kyle Herendeen, $14,889.88; v. Angela A. Trusty, $19,468.79

LVNV Funding LLC v. Byron Kaufman, $1,308.66; v. Lloyd Mast, $1,263.90

Crown Asset Management LLC v. Charles Mummert, $7,033.33

Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. Bryce Owens, $816.04; v. Ricki Parson, $1,376.51

OneMain Financial Group LLC v. Erica L. Rapsavage and Bonnie D. Slone, $1,646.58

Capital One N.A. v. Chauncey A. Robinson, $2,442.11

LCS Capital LLC v. Terry Yeiter, $12,500

Plenaries

The following plenaries have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court One, Judge Karin McGrath presiding:

JBR Property Management Inc. v. Sandra J. Clark Revocable Living Trust, Vogel Family Trust, Sandra J. Vogel and Stephen H. Vogel, Trustees, $13,828.93

Veronica Diaz v. Miguel Villalobos and Simon Villalobos, $24,750

Superior Court III

The following infractions have been filed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Driving while suspended — Joseph N. Riggs, Milford, $185.50

Speeding — Raymond M. Slusher, South Whitley, $160.50; Johanna E. McIntyre, Mentone, $160.50; Donato Signore, Leesburg, $160.50; Ronnie A. Ashby, Claypool, $160.50; Jared A. Stephens, Mentone, $160.50; Alexis M. Sparks, Milford, $160.50

Failure to signal for turn or lane change — Steven C. Vandyke, Warsaw, $160.50

Illegal passing stopped school bus — Jamie L. France, Winona Lake, $185.50

Speeding, learners permit violation — Jeremy D. Schwartz, Bourbon, $185.50

Speeding, no valid driver’s license — Marvin J. Whitehead, Warsaw, $185.50

No valid driver’s license — Yolanda A. Mata Rios, Roann, $160.50; Benjamin F. Davis, Warsaw, $160.50; Yolanda A. Mata Rios, Silver Lake, $160.50

Passing in a no passing zone — Arturo V. Hernandez, Warsaw, $160.50

Operating a motor vehicle with a false plate — Elizabeth A. Williamson, Warsaw, $160

Learner’s permit violation — Diana L. Campos, Warsaw, $160.50

Learner’s permit violation, un-

West, Inverness, Fla., Deven Sevy, Bonita Springs, Fla., and Darren Sevy, Goshen; 12 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; two greatgreat-grandchildren; and a brother, Owen Sevy, Lexington, N.C.

Services were held Jan. 9 at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Wakarusa. Burial was in South West Cemetery.

Bonnie Lou Smith

Bonnie Lou (Rice) Smith, 68, North Manchester, died Dec. 28, 2022.

She was born Sept. 5, 1954.

She is survived by a son, Nathan “Tater” Smith, North Manchester; father, Allen D. Rice, North Manchester; brothers, Michael Rice, Warsaw, Ronald Rice, Indianapolis, Steven Rice, Bippus, Douglas Rice, North Manchester, and Andrew Rice, Bippus; sisters, Rebecca Rice, Gas City, and Jennifer Rice, Indianapolis; and her bonus children,

Cameron Miller, Scottie Schultz and Adam Lewis.

Services were held Jan. 5 at McKee Mortuary, North Manchester. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery, Servia.

Lewis D. Swihart

Lewis D. “Lewie” Swihart, 73, Nappanee, died at 11:20 a.m. Jan. 2, 2023.

He was born July 8, 1949. On Nov. 12, 1967, he married Deb Mason; she survives.

Also surviving are his children, Wenda Wilson, Littleton, Colo., and Andrew Lewis Swihart, Nappanee; six grandchildren; sister, Gloria Cleveland, Nappanee; brothers, Fred Swihart and Jerry Swihart, both of Nappanee; sister-in-law, Terry Swihart, Wakarusa; motherin-law, Gloria Mason, Nappanee; and brothers-in-law, Jack Mason, Wakarusa, and Jerry “Moose” Swihart, Nappanee.

Cremation will take place and visitation will be held from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, with a memorial service starting at 4 p.m., at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee.

ret Lienhart Funeral Home, Wakarusa, was in charge of arrangements.

Rex A. Yarian

Rex A. Yarian, 74, rural Mentone, died at 1:56 a.m. Jan. 6, 2023.

Arrangements are currently pending at King Memorial Home, Mentone.

Jeff L. Yoder

Jeff L. Yoder, 82, Plymouth, died Jan. 1, 2023.

He was born Oct. 20, 1940. He married Sharon Stine, who preceded him in death.

Surviving are daughters, Robin Davidson, Plymouth, Pam Eads, Indianapolis, and Jennifer Bell, Warsaw; sons-in-law, Jack Carpenter, Warsaw; nine grandchildren; former spouse, Rita Rovenstine Thayer, Argos; siblings, Steve Yoder, Sarasota, Fla., Jim Yoder, Bremen, Phil Yoder and Nickie Weidner, Plymouth, and Kristy Spaid, Wheatland, Wyo.; and many nieces and nephews.

lawful possession of tobacco, eliquid or an electronic cigarette — Jared L. Hochstetler, Nappanee, $185.50

Failure to register — Braxton A. Bradenburg, Silver Lake, $160.50

Marriage Licenses

The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court

Ann Torpy: Smith-Hunsberger

Jeremy J. Smith, 30, Etna Green, and Kayla M. Hunsberger, 30, Etna Green Schaefer-Brown

Jesse A. Schaefer, 41, Leesburg, and Mistie D. Brown, 42, Leesburg Bergin-Martinez

Matthew P. Bergin, 34, Lafayette, and Barbara Diane Estrella Martinez, 31, Warsaw Dawson-Gardiner

Shane F. Dawson, 40, Warsaw, and Kara M. Gardiner, 37, Warsaw Mikel-Tucker

David L. Mikel, 76, Etna Green, and Lois C. Tucker, 73, Warsaw Green-Batchelor

Willie A. Green Jr., 42, Warsaw, and Danielle L. Batchelor, 36, Marion

Marriage Dissolutions

The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in the Kosciusko Superior and Circuit Courts: Reed — Cathy Reed, Warsaw, and Ryan Reed, Warsaw. Married: Sept. 8, 2007. Separated: Dec. 29, 2022. There is one minor child.

Steinecker — Ashley Steinecker, Milford, and William Steinecker, Syracuse. Married: June 19, 2010. Separated: Feb. 3, 2022. There is one minor child.

Lucille Wagner

Lucille Wagner, 94, Warsaw, died at 7:45 a.m. Jan. 5, 2023.

She was born May 17, 1928. On July 15, 1951, she married Herbert William Wagner. He preceded her in death Jan. 24, 2006.

Surviving are daughters, Carol Wright, Elyria, Ohio, and Faye Hocking, Warsaw; six grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Burial will be in Resthaven Memory Gardens, Avon, Ohio. Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw, is in charge of arrangements.

Dennis A. Wise

Dennis A. Wise, 78, North Liberty, died at 2:22 p.m. Jan. 1, 2023.

He was born Jan. 27, 1944. On June 14, 1969, he married Lynne Strycker; she survives.

Also surviving are daughters, Patti Bailey, Wakarusa, and Denise Auer, Warsaw; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

A graveside service with military honors were held Jan. 5 at Olive (West) Cemetery. Rieth Rohrer Eh-

Visitation will be held from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, at Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan St., Plymouth. A celebration of life will follow at 2 p.m. Family burial will be in New Oak Hill Cemetery, Plymouth.

William E. Young

William E. “Bill” Young, 82, Leesburg, died Dec. 31, 2022.

He was born May 4, 1940. He married Margaret Young, who preceded him in death.

Surviving are stepsons, Bob and John Ottinger; and several nieces and nephews.

A walkthrough and military honors were held Jan. 5 at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse. Burial followed at Glen Cove Cemetery, Knightstown.

Lavon

Nappanee, are the parents of a son, Elliot Reese, born at 8:56 p.m. Dec. 29, 2022. He weighed 7 pounds, 5 ounces.

Elliot Reese Slabaugh

and Mary Beth (Atkinson) Slabaugh,

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Federal grant will improve quality, access, affordability of early childhood care, education

The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration Office of Early Childhood and Out-ofSchool Learning, in partnership with the Indiana Department of Education Office of Kindergarten Readiness, has been awarded a $42 million federal grant.

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over three years to implement programmatic changes that will improve Indiana’s capacity to recruit early educators, increase access to early learning opportunities for students in unserved areas and ultimately support families as they make important decisions regarding

their child’s education.

“These funds come at a key time, as Indiana has built the foundation for innovation through the collaborative partnership of FSSA, IDOE and the Early Learning Advisory Committee. Together we are uniquely prepared to best serve children

Wreaths Across America announces ‘Serve and Succeed’ theme for 2023

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Outdoor Indiana features oaks

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The issue also includes features on the 70th anniversary of Cagles Mill Lake and the many uses and types of bug antennae.

Outdoor Indiana is available now for $4 per issue at Indiana State Park Inns across the state. Subscriptions are $15 for one year (six issues), a 27% savings over cover price, and $28 for two years (12 issues), a 42% savings.

needs of our veteran community while also showcasing the continued contributions of those who serve.

“There are many ways to serve your community and country, and just as many definitions of success,” said Karen Worcester, executive director, Wreaths Across America. “We hope through focusing on those stories of success we will help change the dialogue around what it means to serve your country.”

In 2022, more than 2.7 million veterans’ wreaths were placed by volunteers on headstones at 3,702 participating locations around the country in honor of the service and sacrifices made for our freedoms, with each name said out loud. Wreaths Across America volunteers work year-round to ensure military laid to rest are remembered, their families and living veterans are honored and the next generation is taught about the value of freedom.

and families across the state,” said Maureen Weber, chairwoman of ELAC.

The three-year grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will award $14 million annually to FSSA, which partnered with the Indiana Department of Education on the grant application.

Combined with FSSA’s $4.2 million annual investment as matching funds required by the grant, $54.6 million will be leveraged in total to accelerate and build Indiana’s capacity to implement long-lasting change, including:

• Building upon stakeholders’ understanding of the needs, gaps and inequities in Indiana’s birththrough-age-5 mixed delivery system, especially as they relate to underserved populations.

• Refreshing Indiana’s birththrough-age-5 strategic plan to reflect the current environment and the existing opportunities to drive system-level change.

• Amplifying the voices of families in decision making and introducing new services and educational supports that empower them as their child’s first and most important teacher.

• Introducing new workforce

recruitment and career pathways, building the operational capacity of early childhood care and education providers and enhancing workforce conditions and compensation.

• Strengthening instructional practices, quality measures and birth-to-age-8 coordination efforts.

• Investing in the expansion of high-quality programs in underserved geographies.

The funding will build upon key work already underway to improve the early learning infrastructure in Indiana.

New state legislation championed by Gov. Eric J. Holcomb restructured and expanded Indiana’s ELAC, and Holcomb also launched a new Office of Kindergarten Readiness within IDOE to work in partnership with OECOSL to ensure the early learning experiences children receive are effectively readying them for school.

In September 2022, new early learning policy goals were established by ELAC to ensure Hoosier children, especially those most underserved, have access to early learning opportunities that prepare them with the skills required to thrive in kindergarten.

P UBLIC A UCTIONS

In light of coronavirus precautions, we encourage our readers to check auctioneers’ websites for sale status updates. At press time, the following were scheduled:

Online Only

Tract 1, 501 N. Union St., Warsaw; Tract 2, 526 Oak Glen Drive, Warsaw; Tract 3, 2246 W. 100S, Warsaw. More information available online, metzgerauction.com.

January is National Blood Donor Month

January is designated as National Volunteer Blood Donor Month by The American Red Cross. During this month, blood donations typically drop off due to holiday breaks from schools, inclement weather and winter illnesses.

However, January is a month of great need for blood donations, partially due to holidaypostponed surgeries and holiday schedules that preclude donors from giving blood. Each day, the Red Cross must collect 13,000 pints of blood across the country to meet the needs of patients.

According to the American Red Cross, winter is one of the most difficult times of year to collect enough blood products to meet patient needs, because, among other things, busy holiday schedules and bad weather often result in canceled blood drives.

Furthermore, seasonal illnesses such as the flu force potential donors to forgo their blood donations. That is just one of the reasons that National Blood Donor Month, which has taken place each January since 1970, is such

Subscribe at shopinstateparks.com or (317) 233-3046. To read article excerpts, go to outdoorindiana.org. an important observance.

Donating blood saves many lives and improves health for many people. According to the World Health Organization, “Blood is the most precious gift anyone can give to another person — the gift of life. A decision to donate your blood can save a life, or even several if your blood is separated into its components: red cells, platelets and plasma.”

To make a donation appointment, call (800) 733-2767 or visit redcross.org.

This year, National Wreaths Across America Day is Saturday, Dec. 16. It is a free event and open to all people. For more information on how to volunteer locally or sponsor a wreath for an American hero, visit wreathsacrossamerica. org. To follow stories throughout the year from across the country focused on this theme, use the hashtag #ServeAndSucceed.

Wreaths Across America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery begun by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester in 1992. The organization’s mission — Remember, Honor, Teach — is carried out in part each year by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December at Arlington, as well as in thousands of veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond. To learn more, visit wreathsacrossamerica.org/pages/19520/News/900/?relatedId=0.

Real Estate Auction 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18. 1448 square-foot, four-bedroom, detached garage, fenced yard, deck. 202 S. Third St., Pierceton. Open house 5:306 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11. Metzger Property Svcs. BidMetzger.com.

Real Estate Auction 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19, at 2653 E. US 30, Warsaw. Three tracts, may bid on separately or together:

Online Real Estate Auction 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25. 275+ acres located in Kosciusko County at northwest and northeast corners of the intersection of CR 450N and CR 300E and approximately 1 mile north on the west side of CR 300E. Road frontage with three irrigation units, one irrigation well and pipeline extending to all three tracts. Contact Jon Rosen, (260) 740-1846, halderman.com.

Merry Lea’s fifth annual Michiana Regional Seed Swap is Jan. 21

Local residents can connect with fellow gardeners and plant enthusiasts at Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center of Goshen College’s fifth annual Michiana Regional Seed Swap this winter.

This networking and educational event is for residents in the region to exchange and learn about seeds. Participants can trade or acquire seeds, learn about seed saving techniques and gardening practices, browse resource tables and vendors and connect with other gardeners.

This free event is open to the public and will take place from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, at Goshen College Church Chapel, 1700 S. Main St., Goshen.

Everyone is welcome, including first-time gardeners, experienced growers, children and families. Two food vendors, including Tacos El Portal Food Truck (from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) and McIntosh

Local students named to dean’s/ president’s list

The following local students were named to the dean’s list of their respective colleges/universities:

Bob Jones University New Paris — Alana Lehman

The following local students were named to the president’s list of their respective colleges/universities:

Bob Jones University Nappanee — Ashlyn Feller Wakarusa — Wesley Gay

Lane Bakery (throughout the event) will be available to purchase from.

“A seed swap supports the biodiversity of crops grown in our region. Exchanging seeds helps us to create a ‘living seed bank’ of vegetables, grains, flowers and herbs that are regionally adapted to our area,” said John Sherck, a local seed grower and swap contributor.

Throughout the event, there will be educational sessions for participants. Topics such as seed saving and cover crops will be discussed. Among the speakers will be Tony Fleming, a geologist, naturalist and homesteader. Fleming will illustrate when and where to grow cover crops and how to manage them by showing his own garden that has been documented during this past year.

More information about the educational sessions, vendors,

sponsors and event details can be found at goshen.edu/merrylea/ seedswap5.

Herb, vegetable and flower seeds will be available through sales, trades and for free, thanks to donations.

Participants are not required to bring seeds to the event, but are encouraged to do so if they have them. Everyone is welcome to come for the duration of the event or just drop in.

Merry Lea is located just south of Wolf Lake, halfway between Goshen and Fort Wayne. Directions and updates are available at goshen.edu/merrylea or the Merry Lea Facebook page. For questions regarding Merry Lea’s hours, contact merrylea@goshen.edu or (260) 799-5869.

Indiana Department of Education announces 2022 graduation rate

The Indiana Department of Education released the 2022 state graduation rates, with data showing 86.61% of students in the Class of 2022 graduating.

“Graduating high school is an important milestone as students transition to their next step, whether that’s employment, enrollment or enlistment leading to service,” said Indiana Secretary of Education Dr. Katie Jenner.

“As we seek new and innovative ways to ensure students are best prepared for their future, we must continue to rethink how those four years are structured. This includes increasing the number of students having access to a high-value postsecondary creden-

Interra Credit Union to host home seller’s seminar

Interra Credit Union’s Mortgage department will be hosting a free home seller’s seminar at noon Wednesday, Jan. 11, at the Elkhart Chamber of Commerce, 418 S. Main St., Elkhart.

Attendees will learn from a panel of local Realtor experts the best practices in preparing to sell a home this new year.

The Realtor panel will include

Chelsea Revella of Howard Hanna; Christine Simper, Berkshire Hathaway; and Nicholas Wyse, RE/MAX Results.

A catered lunch will be provided.

Interested in joining the free seminar? Visit campaign.documatix.com/DPS/WebForms/WebForm/A6C9E405BDC82E9B to register online or call (574) 534-2506, ext. 7330.

tial before graduation, increasing access to high-quality work-based learning opportunities that allow for additional skill development as well as providing flexibility for high schools — allowing them to focus on strategic, rigorous coursework that is purposeful for each student’s unique path.”

While overall the statewide graduation rate held relatively steady as many students are continuing to recover from the academic impacts of pandemic-related learning disruptions, below are some of the key areas of success from the 2022 graduation data:

Statewide, graduation rates increased for:

• Black students — from 77.05% in 2021 to 77.52% in 2022.

• Hispanic students — from 82.66% in 2021 to 83.86% in 2022.

• English learners — from 82.80% in 2021 to 85.60% in 2022.

• Special education students — from 74.52% in 2021 to 76.39% in 2022.

• Students receiving free and reduced price meals — from 82.84% in 2021 to 83.74% in 2022.

The non-waiver graduation rate improved from 78.78% in 2021 to 80.58% in 2022. Per Indiana Code (IC 20-32-4-4.1), to qualify for a waiver, a student must have been unsuccessful in completing postsecondary-readiness competency requirements by the conclusion of his/her senior year. This includes:

• A student who was in the process of completing a competency at one school that was not offered by the school to which the student transferred.

• A student who has attempted to achieve at least three separate postsecondary-readiness competencies.

Due to differences between federal and state accountability equations and standards, IDOE also released 2022 federal graduation rates. In 2022, Indiana’s federal graduation rate was 85.12%.

Note: Graduation rates in 2020 reflect the State Board of Education’s waiver of the Graduation Qualifying Exam requirement for the 2020 cohort, which could not be administered due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to this waiver, caution should be exercised when comparing 2019 and 2021 rates to rates in 2020.

Note: Since the Graduation Qualifying Exam requirement was waived for students graduating in 2020, there is no non-waiver rate for that year.

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