the Paper - Kosciusko County Edition - February 15, 2023

In 2013 a group of theater lovers came together and formed Center Street Theater. In 2021, the group became Wagon Wheel Community Theater after it was brought in as a “spoke of the wheel” a year or two after the Wagon Wheel went nonprofit.

The community theater has a consistent group of about 50 members; however, at the last audition, 40 people came out, with about half being new. “We’re growing and expanding, which is great,” said Emilie Judy Barr, who is directing the community theater’s upcoming production of “Dearly Beloved.”

Wagon Wheel Community Theater is open to adults 18 and over. The group will look for youth from the community if there’s a role to be filled.

Anyone interested in theater is welcome to join the group. “Even if they don’t have a lot of experience, we’re willing to train them,” Judy Barr said.

Members meet a few times a year for get-togethers, but things ramp up when a show is in production. The community theater produces a fulllength play in the spring and then a murder-mystery fundraiser in April.

Right now the group is in rehearsal for “Dearly Beloved,” a comedy by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten. Judy Barr describes it as a heartfelt comedy about three sisters who are “sort of estranged.” One sister’s daughter is getting married and chaos ensues.

“It’s a feel-good show,” Judy Barr said. “It’s great for kids, great for adults.” Judy Barr explained the community theater determines the choice of the play based on who is directing. The director will then have a discus-

sion with the Wagon Wheel staff as to which would be the best to put on.

sion

Judy Barr had five possible shows and really wanted to do “Dearly Beloved” “It’s lighthearted, fun and it’s something people may not have heard of,” she said.

The cast is made up of 12 people.

The April murder mystery fundraiser is interactive with the audience. The audience comes in for the first act where a murder takes place. During intermission, which lasts about 45 minutes, members of the audience break into teams or, according to Judy-Barr, they can come to the performance as a team, grab a form and start looking for clues.

Actors will then interact with audience members, claiming their innocence. Act two of the performance is the solution to the murder mystery. There are prizes for the team that comes up with the correct solution. This year’s performance will be “Phantom of the Wagon Wheel.”

The Wagon Wheel Community Theater would like to do more shows.

Judy Barr said the more opportunities available to have shows, the more

people can get involved. “We’re all living life, and trying to throw our love of theater (into the mix),” she said.

Judy Barr has been a huge theater fan since she was in elementary school. The youngest of three, she remembers her oldest sister being involved with her school play, Agatha Christie’s “Mouse Trap.”

Judy Barr was hooked at the performance of the play. As an adult she was looking for a way to be a part of theater when she joined Wagon Wheel Community Theater. Then she learned there may be opportunities to direct. She stage-managed some performances, was an assistant director and then was given the opportunity to direct the community theater in “Mouse Trap.”

“I love we have such a dedicated group of people who consistently come together to tell these stories.”

“Dearly Beloved” will be performed at the Wagon Wheel Theater, 2515 E. Center St., at 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, March 9-11, and 2 p.m. Sunday, March 12. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at the theater or at wagonwheelcenter.org.

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K NOW Y OUR N EIGHBOR Keffer happy to call Warsaw his adopted hometown

Ben Keffer moved to Warsaw a decade ago after being invited by friends to join the then-fledgling company, MudLOVE. The Ohio native admitted he hadn’t even heard of Warsaw.

“It was kind of a crazy lifechange shift,” he recalled. “I took that job and was making $50 less than my bills were. I wondered, ‘Was this the right move?’ I kept telling myself this was going to work out.”

He spent three years with MudLOVE, during which time he met his future bride, Nicole Moore.

“We wanted to start a family,” he said. “Working for a small start-up lost some appeal when I started wanting things like health insurance. It was time to start looking for something with more benefits.”

Keffer took a job in Plymouth with Kessler Crane, which makes filmmaking equipment for major movie studios. He was there for three years, working on product marketing.

“When I came on with MudLOVE I was doing graphic design,” he recalled. “It was a small company with a small number of people, so we were all doing lots of stuff. The job with Kessler really pushed me to grow professionally.”

A friend told him the YMCA in Warsaw was hiring. Keffer was eventually hired and has served as its director of marketing and fund development director for four years.

“We joke that we have programs for people from birth to death,” he said. “No matter your age, we have something for you. We market to everyone in Warsaw. It could be anything from cancer support programs

to youth sports leagues. I’m responsible for the organization of information and making sure it’s all available on our website and in the catalog.

“The other side is fund development. Last year we gave out around $180,000 in financial assistance. We have a lot of local companies that are supportive of nonprofits. We also are finding ways for individuals to support the Y and understand its importance. Last year we raised $150,000, which was a record. Our board has set aggressive goals and we want to close the gap between those numbers.”

Keffer and his wife have two children. Nicole’s brothers are Scott and Matt, head basketball coaches at Grace College and Warsaw High School, respectively.

“I’m a rabid football fan,” Keffer said. “Then I moved to Indiana where everyone loves basketball. We joke that I married into this wealth of Indiana basketball. I can go to all these games and get into all these gyms, and I’m like, ‘Eh, I don’t really care, let’s go to a football game.’ It’s kind of wasted on me, unfortunately, but it’s been fun to learn more about basketball.”

Keffer spent his first year of college in the art program at the University of Cincinnati. He soon discovered it wasn’t the right fit for him, which led to his transfer to Indiana Wesleyan, where he majored in painting and art education.

Now he considers Warsaw home. He said his time at MudLOVE was the perfect introduction to how wonderful this community can be.

“I kind of fell in love with it,” he said. “Like any hometown, there are things you like, things you don’t like. But I’ve always felt very welcomed.“

Keffer also has a small printmaking business, Wandering Press.

“I do fine art posters and prints,” he said. “I do 10-12 shows a year. The Fort Wayne Museum of Art and a couple

of other places carry my work. It’s really nice to step out on my own time and do whatever I want.

“We love to travel and have adventures. My wife is a stayat-home mom now, but used

to do product and business development around the world. She’s lived in 40-plus countries. She’s an artist as well and used to have a shop in the Village. She’s definitely the cooler one of us!”

Bomy’s Authentic Indian Food to host blood drive

Bomy’s Authentic Indian Food will be holding a blood drive with a proposed date of Monday, March 13.

The restaurant will be offering free food and fresh-squeezed juice to participants.

Registration is required. You can sign up by calling Kuldeep Singh Bomy at (516) 513-4933 or by stopping into the store at 1403 E. Winona Ave., Warsaw.

Once the proposed number of people have registered, the date of the event will be finalized as March 13. The American Red Cross is the final decision maker on whether that date will be used or if another date will need to be chosen based

on availability.

Donating blood is a simple way to make a difference in

someone’s life. Your blood donation can help save up to three lives.

Celebration UMC chili supper set for Feb. 18

Celebration United Methodist Chruch, 1289 S. 250E, Winona Lake, will host a chili supper fundraiser for its youth summer camp and a

Art in Action —

A nearby museum full of treasures

This week we want to introduce you to the Fort Wayne Museum of Art and everything it has to offer. Fort Wayne is not considered a large metropolitan area, but the art museum has provided permanent and special exhibits for the community to enjoy that rival museums in much larger cities.

The museum has impressed me through the years with special exhibitions, its growing permanent collection and the effort made to reach out to the community and artists in northern Indiana.

Artists often struggle to reach a broader audience for their work, so it was a welcome surprise a few years ago when the museum offered local artists the opportunity to have their work displayed in a special exhibition.

The event begins with the works being juried (judged) to be selected for the exhibit. Local artists like me were thrilled to see our work accepted and on display. As an artist, it is always an honor to be selected to show my art in a prestigious museum like the Fort Wayne Museum of Art.

I have visited the museum on several occasions and always enjoy the vast permanent collection along with special exhibitions.

In 2013, the museum announced a special exhibition to show the exquisite work of Dale Chihuly and his extraordinary glass creations. It was a privilege for the museum to procure this exhibition, especially since Chihuly’s exhibits were normally reserved for much larger art museums.

I spread the word about the exhibition through this column and through word of mouth to as many artists and art lovers as possible and excitedly anticipated the very special exhibition.

Chihuly is a unique craftsman who uses molten glass to create his interpretation of a world often hidden. This exhibition, “The Secret Garden,” was full of color and light and I was immediately entranced when I entered the exhibition and came face to face with a colorful installation of a pond with glass reeds growing at the edge and glass water lilies appearing to float on the pond.

The reeds were easily 6 feet tall and were illuminated by the natural light and appeared to sway back and forth with the breeze. I was so affected by his work, I decided I wanted to experiment with bringing that same appreciation of nature to the forefront in my own two-dimensional work.

I was inspired to create something that encompassed the beauty of nature using both natural light and illumination in a new way. Visiting the Chihuly exhibition was an

experience I will carry with me and refer to for inspiration for many years to come.

The Fort Wayne Museum of Art dates to 1888 and encompasses 50,000 square feet of gallery space. The museum is open noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. On Thursday admission is free from 5-8 p.m.

Regular admission is $10 with discounts for students and seniors. For families, the Knight Learning Center in the museum offers artmaking activities and hands-on engagement stations that teach the elements of art. The five special exhibitions available now are:

• Indiana Waterways: The art of conservation.

• Garden Party: Outdoor sculptures by Dorothy Gillespie.

• Planes, Trains, and Automobiles: Classic toys and Americana.

• Kaiyodo: Mini artworks for the

modern age.

• The glass wing.

The Fort Wayne Museum of Art is a hidden gem in northern Indiana. It is well worth your time to visit and enjoy.

Events

• Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery: Local artist Deana Harvey will be displaying her artwork through the end of March. If you have already been to her exhibit, make sure to stop by again, as she has switched out her artwork to provide a fresh showing.

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.

new driveway.

The chili supper will be held 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18. Price is a freewill donation. Dine in or carry out will be available.

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Boys & Girls Clubs visit Indy for day of advocacy

Teens from all four Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County spent Tuesday, Feb. 7, at the Indiana Statehouse. They were there as part of a “Day of Advocacy.” The five members met with lawmakers on behalf of the club.

“This was an amazing opportunity for our future leaders to learn about advocacy and how funding can impact their club experience,” said Chief Advancement Officer Matt Fischer.

One of the missions of club is to expose members to opportunities outside the clubhouse and show them potential career paths. While in Indianapolis, the members were able to speak with local State Representative Joanna King and local State Senator Ryan Mishler. King took the teens on a tour of the house chamber and posed with them for photos.

“She was very understanding and was interested in hearing what the club is doing,” said Josh Polasky from the Goshen Club. “She also gave us the opportunity

Moving to every other week

The Good Neighbors column will now be published every other week. The next column will be published Feb. 22 and alternating weeks thereafter.

Readers are encouraged to continue mailing, faxing or emailing their friendly advice and ask or answer questions.

To mail questions, send to Good Neighbors, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542; fax (800) 886-3796; or email abias@the-papers.com. Please, no phone calls.

to be the first people to take a picture with her in the house chamber this year.”

Elkhart Club member Justice Thompson talked with Mishler about the Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County. “It was so nice to talk with someone who could contribute to kids in our community,” she said. The teens all said they were impressed by the experience.

“It was pretty cool to meet with the state lawmakers,” said Kelsey Hamsher from the Nappanee Club. “Everyone we met — and especially the building itself — was amazing. It’s so impressive to see what all the people who work inside do,” Polasky said.

“It was a nice experience. We got to see what a lawmaker’s job is like,” said Noah Klotz from the Middlebury Club.

In addition to meeting with lawmakers, the teens toured the statehouse and the Supreme

Court chambers. They also talked with members of other clubs around the state.

“I forgot how big the club organization is. So, to see all the people from other clubs in the state was awesome,” said Kristina Petkova from the Goshen Club.

All of the teens said they would love to take part in the experience again in the future. The day was coordinated by the Indiana Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County began operations in 1956. The clubs offer programming and service opportunities for children and teens to reach their full potential within the community. Each day, the clubs provide powerful relationships with the youth they serve and open avenues of opportunity for young people across their community by offering safe places where young people can learn, grow and succeed.

Grace College to host ‘Senior Art/Design Portfolio’ exhibit

Grace College will showcase the thesis portfolios of 16 art majors in an exhibition on campus this winter.

The exhibition for the Senior Art Show will take place Wednesday, Feb. 8, through Thursday, March 2, at the Grace College Mount Memorial Art Gallery, 808 Kings Highway, Winona Lake. The senior students will hold a public reception from 7-9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10.

“Throughout their visual art and

design program, the students have demonstrated not only exceptional aesthetic skills but the integration of faith in their creative art forms,” said Dr. Kim M. Reiff, chair of the department of visual, performing and media arts.

“Opportunities for internships and portfolio critiques by industry professionals have contributed to preparing them for future success,” she said.

The exhibit showcases the work

Local students named to several dean’s list

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

Lewis University

Ligonier — Isaac Flora

Milford — Meghan Bontrager

The Citadel

Warsaw — Elijah Holder University of Findlay

Millersburg — Megan Hochstetler

Free ‘Love-a-Book Cafe’ Feb. 23

The Friends of the Library will be hosting a Love-a-Book Cafe from 2-5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23. The event will be held in the lower level meeting room at the Warsaw Community Pub-

lic Library.

The free event will include refreshments, a photo booth and a selection of free used books.

The community is invited to attend.

Deadline to order for Daffodil Days fast approaching

Daffodils will be delivered for The American Cancer Society’s annual Daffodil Days March 23. The deadline to order daffodils with site coordinator Carol Huffer is Tuesday, Feb. 21.

Daffodil Days is one of the American Cancer Society’s oldest and most beloved fundraising programs that provides hope to everyone touched by cancer by offering daffodils to donors in appreciation for their contributions.

As the first flower of spring, the daffodil represents hope and renewal to cancer patients and those affected by the disease and a chance to believe there is hope.

The American Cancer Society impact includes:

• Investing $3.1 billion in cancer research since 1991, contributing to 3.5 million fewer cancer deaths.

•Advocating for high-quality, affordable health care for everyone, including closing the Medicaid coverage gap, through the American Cancer Society Action Network.

•Education and advocating for healthy lifestyles and environments, including promotion of regular screening, and being a trusted source of screening recommendations for health care professionals.

•Providing multiple support

programs for people with cancer and their caregivers, including a home away from home with the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge communities when they need to travel for treatment and free access to cancer information via its 24/7 helpline.

•Being the only nonprofit supporting people with all types of cancer though advocacy, research and patient support.

• Ensuring everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer.

Daffodil Days is an opportunity for people to join the American Cancer Society’s vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.

Dollars raised through Daffodil Days help improve the lives of people with cancer and their families through advocacy, research and patient support, to ensure everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer. For a $10 donation, donors will receive one bunch of freshcut daffodils. For a $25 donation, donors can give a Gift of Hope, a bloomed bunch of daffodils in a vase, delivered to a cancer patient currently in treatment.

Huffer can be contacted by bchuffer@comcast.net or (574) 858-0051.

of students Kimberly Aalbue, Jenna Debbink, Marissa Drake, Rowan Eshbach, Julia Frone, Belle Hernandez, Morgan Hooks, Anna Keller, Rebekah Krooswyk, Lauren McKinney, Erika Murrill, Oli Rainwater, Chloe Reel, Neri HurtadoRojas, Madie Roy and Lauren Winyard.

“I’m most excited to see everyone else’s work come together in this exhibit,” said Frone, a visual communication design major. “Seeing how much everyone grew over the last few years has been inspiring.”

The Mount Memorial Art Gallery is open 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The department’s goal is to equip graduates with the ability to communicate visually, possess professional skills and be able to analyze works from historical and contemporary cultural perspectives. Students learn to demonstrate excellence in creative work that ultimately serves in their calling as artists, Christians and professionals.

For more information, call (574) 372-5100, ext. 6022, or email art@ grace.edu.

Fairfield FFA to celebrate, recruit new members

It’s a long and proud tradition at Fairfield, and the FFA program continues to be a success in and out of the classroom.

The program itself has come a long way over the years, adapting to the modern shift in how agriculture is done and what comprises the daily nature of the industry and lifestyle.

That progression has worked its way to Fairfield, where FFA advisor Mallory Dowty has embraced the changes and passed them along to the FFA students in her program. From hands-on, day-to-day instruction to preparing students mentally for a potential career in ag, Dowty has been excited about how these new views are helping the next generation.

“There’s a lot more virtual and graphics the kids can do; they’ve turned programs into video games they can sit and do,” Dowty said, herself an area farmer. “It simulates them actually being in a tractor, there’s a farming simulator on Xbox kids can play and virtual reality which I’ve noticed there is a big uptick in since I was in FFA myself.”

Dowty took 30 students in late October to the FFA Convention in Indianapolis. Over 66,000 students from across the Midwest attended the event; Dowty noted her crew making

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Triton High School FFA preparing for District II Convention

Triton High School FFA members have been busy planning the annual Triton FFA farmer’s breakfast. This year, the breakfast will be dine-in from 6:30-8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22, at the Triton ag shop (Door No. 15).

Triton’s FFA chapter took two teams to the District II Small Engines Contest at Elkhart Tuesday, Jan. 31, and did very well as a school.

Triton FFA is also planning for FFA Week, Feb. 20-26. Activities during the week will include Drive Your Tractor to School Day and Marshall County’s FFA Toy Show. The toy show will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 26, at Plymouth High School.

“We have just started our strawberry fundraiser,” said FFA Advisor April Leeper.

If anyone is interested in ordering, contact Leeper at aleeper@triton.k12.in.us.

Triton FFA is also hosting the District II Convention Thursday, March 9.

“We are in search of judges and sponsors,” Leeper stated.

If interested in helping with this contest, contact Leeper.

“We are excited for a fun end of the school year,” she said. For more information, visit tritonffa.club or its Facebook page.

NorthWood FFA expanding its horizons

NorthWood High School FFA is under new leadership this school year following the departure of longtime advisor Amy Beer.

While the students were sad to see Beer go, they continue

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to thrive under the guidance of co-advisors Grace Allen and Brandi Henderson. With more than 50 student members in the chapter and twice that number taking agriculture classes at the school, NorthWood’s ag department is thriving.

“Our former advisor, Mrs. Beer, was great, but one person can only do so much,” said chapter President Brenden Blosser. “It’s nice to have two. Their backgrounds spread across nearly

every facet of agriculture. We’re able to get a lot of knowledge from them, which opens up the opportunity to compete in more contests.”

“They’ve also pushed us out of our comfort zones to allow us to grow our skills,” added Molly Martz, the chapter’s reporter. “I’ve done stuff I never thought I’d do. They’ve inspired

Continued on page 8

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Warsaw FFA plans to celebrate a very successful school year

Warsaw FFA plans to spend National FFA Week celebrating their accomplishments thus far and setting the tone for their upcoming events and competitions.

The FFA program is intended to provide students with resources, develop their potential for premier leadership, enable personal growth and ensure future career success through agricultural education.

Tippecanoe Valley FFA reaches 70 members

National FFA Week, Feb. 18-25, is always a time to celebrate at Tippecanoe Valley High School. This year’s celebrations may be a little more festive, however, due to a spike in membership after 20 8th graders were welcomed into the chapter, bringing their total to roughly 70.

Another welcome addition has been agriculture teacher Hope Slagle, now in her second year, who commented on the strong foundation being set with the younger members. “They’re going to be experts by the time they get to be juniors and seniors,” she said.

Slagle’s counterpart, Mike Jones, has 23 years of FFA experience, starting at Argos High School. For seven years he has advised Tippy Valley FFA.

“I don’t do a lot of coaching,” said Jones. “Older kids teach younger members about contests and projects. … Freshmen build relationships with seniors who take them under their wing.”

Treasurer Issiac Ramsey, a junior, emphasized the leadership skills this interaction imparts. “Even as a freshman, being around the older kids teaches you how to be a better leader.”

While Ramsey, President Lucas Parson and Vice President

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Wawasee High FFA chapter develops close bond

The Wawasee FFA chapter continues to grow.

“We started the year trying to grow our membership, especially freshman and sophomores, and also push them to get their degrees this year. There are different degrees for each year of membership,” said junior FFA chapter president Reagan Scott.

“First-year members will get their greenhand degrees. Second-year members will work on getting their chapter degree, which requires a certain amount of hours. Third-year members will get their state degree/Hoosier degree. They need to fill out an application online at the state level to get approval.

“Supervised Agriculture Education-required hours can range from working at a job, working on your farm, having your own business or working with your animals.

“We started doing ‘Team Building Tuesdays.’ We take a group of students and do team-building exercises so they can build friendships. They have the ability to learn from each other and learn as a group. We have been pushing career development events like horse judging, soil judging, horticulture judging, livestock judging and dairy judging,” added Scott.

Sophomore FFA Vice President Lucas Wilkinson chimed in, “Leadership development events can include a variety of things like demonstrations, sales pitches, speeches and interviews. That’s held at Triton this year.

“Right now, we’re preparing for FFA Week, which takes place Feb. 18-25. On Monday, we’re doing our LDE practice. Wednesday we do a teacher and staff appreciation breakfast. Friday will be tractor day where first graders come to learn about tractor safety and students will drive their tractors, dirt bikes and four-wheelers to school.”

“March 9 at Triton, every FFA chapter from our district will be in front of a judge and do a demo or speech. It’s a contest against other chapters in the district,” said Scott.

Sophomore FFA chapter reporter Keira Sharp added, “We want to recognize staff, bus drivers, office staff, etc. Our member auction will be held around our officer interview times sometime in April. I take over all social media. I make invitations, write thank you cards, and design stuff for our social media. I’m in charge of the monthly chapter newsletter. I also started an FFA calendar and schedules for people who work, so we can schedule everything in advance.”

Junior FFA chapter secretary Kaden Weimer added, “I mainly get news out to our members. We have 60 members, which is the most we’ve had in a long time. I’m in charge of emailing students and getting the FFA lunch set up during FFA Week. I joined FFA for the opportunities and education because I want an agriculture job.”

“It’s a family tradition,” said Wilkinson. “My grandpa, my dad and my brother were in FFA. I know I can be a leader here and take charge if something needs to be done. I enjoy helping people. I wouldn’t even call it a club; it’s a family. You can always count on someone.”

The events Warsaw FFA students host or participate in are monumental for their growth as individuals, and they are also beneficial to the community. The program is dedicated to giving their students the opportunity to become successful members of the workforce who value and are dedicated to the betterment of their community.

The FFA team has taken part in many events in the community this year to fulfill the school’s mission to make the 2022-2023 school year a “Year of Kindness.”

For example, they participated in Kosciusko County Combined Community Service Adopt-a-Family program, hosted a community appreciation supper and assisted with Pioneer Hybrids Day and many more events.

The team has made notable achievements in their competitions so far this year, some of them being:

• 27th place as a team in the senior FFA division of the Crops Judging Career Development Event.

• 20th place as a team in the senior FFA division of the Forestry Judging CDE.

• 28th place as a team in the senior FFA division of the Entomology Judging CDE.

• Senior Chapter Meeting team placed first in the District 2 Chapter Meeting Leadership Development Event.

The team is now preparing to finish Supervised Agricultural Experience proficiencies, compete in livestock judging, attend leadership development and veterinarian science events, attend the Ag Day banquet and a few other occasions.

FFA Advisor Jacob Riley said, “It gets to be a cycle as an advisor. You know what’s coming around every year, but it is always exciting to see the kids recognize what their next step is and rise to the occasion.”

It has been a year to celebrate for Riley as well. He was recently nominated for the 2023 Indiana FFA Golden Owl award, which recognizes agricultural educators for their significant contributions and investment in the next generations of agricultural leaders.

The team plans to celebrate how far they’ve come and looks forward to the rest of the school year with a bowling night, pizza party, fun after school activities such as karaoke and by doing some community service.

Lilly Center art contest accepts submissions

The Lilly Center’s art contest returns for the 2022-23 school year.

Kosciusko County students in fourth through 12th grade are invited to submit art following this year’s theme: “Imagining Life at the Lake: Past & Future.”

Submissions to the art contest may be dropped off at the Lilly Center no later than Friday, March 31.

Championing native species is critical to the health of area lakes. To that end, no invasive species may be depicted in art contest submissions. For example, trumpeter and tundra swans are acceptable, but mute swans, an invasive species, are not.

Student artwork will be evaluated by the Grace College art department. Overall creativity, artistic merit and depiction of the

NorthWood FFA

Continued from page 6

me to want to become an ag teacher. This year we’ve had so many new members I wouldn’t have thought they would have joined.”

“With two advisors, we’re able to do more things,” said Vice President Stephanie Newcomer. “They’re constantly telling us, ‘These competitions are coming up, do you want to do them? We’re more than happy to help.’ It’s nice to explore all the different things FFA has to offer and expand our agricultural knowledge.”

“New this year we are doing a NW/FFA Ag Day on May 15,” said senior Paige Jacobs, the chapter’s student advisor. We’ve invited fourth graders and sixth graders and are bringing in different animals to teach about their nutritional needs and teach about livestock and where their food comes from. We’re also going to highlight some hydroponics. This year we’re doing a homemade breakfast for the teachers during FFA Week. In the

theme are key components of a great entry.

Winning pieces are placed in a calendar for the following year, and winning artists receive cash prizes. As an added bonus, several winning pieces will be chosen to be printed on cards and bookmarks.

The art contest is one of four Lilly Center programs that focus on K-12 education. Lake Adventure Day, Classroom Lake Experience and destination field trips round out repertoire of programs.

To sponsor the art contest and promote K-12 education programs in Kosciusko County, call (574) 372-5100, ext. 6446.

For a complete list of rules and details about how to enter, visit lakes.grace.edu/education/artcontest.

for power outages today

past we’ve bought items like cinnamon rolls. This year we’re making egg casseroles and pancakes and providing fruit trays.”

“We still have our annual worker auction where each member auctions off their service,” said Blosser. “We also have our community/alumni supper.”

“Our worker auction and silent auction allow us to send kids to national convention, camps and activities for free or at a lower price,” added Newcomer.

“Donations from our community keep us going,” said Treasurer Hannah Shrock. “We don’t get any funding from the school. It’s nice to see teachers and the administration at our events. We also have spirit days every day during FFA week for the student body. Our District Leadership Contest is coming up March 9, so we’re also preparing for that now.”

“On Friday we’ll have our tractor drive-in,” said Secretary Alexa Anglemyer. “Our student resource

Fairfield FFA

Continued from page 6

the trip more than doubled in 2022.

“It’s more of a recruitment tool than anything else,” offered Dowty of the FFA trip, a four-day event that includes a presentation at Lucas Oil Stadium among its dozens of opportunities. “We may do overnight next year, with it being Wednesday through Saturday; that’s next year’s goal.”

Dowty mentioned throughout the year the Fairfield FFA program works on several aspects of everyday training, not just gearing to what’s going on in the farm fields and inside the equipment sheds. All

throughout the year FFA works on Career Development Events and Leadership Development Events, and December and January are big months in recruiting for that.

There is a contest in March involving life skills and career skills, along with public speaking. Toss in demonstrations, speech contests, a quiz bowl on facts of FFA and ag history, and more professional skills mixed in, and the bowl of gumbo that is FFA is really as diverse as it’s ever been.

“There are over 50 different contests kids can do in FFA,” noted Dowty, who shared Fairfield has

Tippecanoe Valley

Continued from page 7

Grant Nelson all come from agricultural backgrounds, they agree this leadership component of FFA can also be beneficial for those without such an upbringing.

“It teaches kids responsibility,” said Parson. Having to regularly attend meetings and taking part in chapter activities, he said, helps cultivate skills they will use later in life. “It gives them the ability to do it now, to practice for the real world.” In fact, members are also preparing now for the district leadership contest at Triton High School, which begins in March.

That said, the agriculture element remains strong at TVHS FFA, particularly soils, forestry and livestock judging, in which

the chapter has been “very successful in the past,” said Nelson. According to Parson, who has been a part of three state-winning forestry teams and went to the national contest his sophomore year, Jones deserves some credit for this success in spite of his modesty. “Mr. Jones knows what he is talking about,” he said. Parsons and the other chapter members are looking forward to FFA week activities, particularly — in Parson’s case — the tractor drive-in on Friday, followed by the FFA breakfast.

FFA week for the TVHS chapter starts on Sunday, Feb. 19, with a visit to Beaver Dam United Methodist Church, followed by a trip to Fort Wayne for an afternoon of laser tag. Members are

officer provides an escort to the school.”

“We have a lot of different personality types,” said Sentinel Abigail Miller. “There are members who live in town but are very involved. We’re a very diverse chapter. We stretch from one end of the spectrum to the other.”

“We do have kids who have an ag background, but there are also some who don’t,” said Martz. “When I got into high school, I didn’t know how many career paths I could have, but now I’ve learned that there’s more than just animals. You can go into so many things that are agricultural related.”

“FFA has given me what I need to be successful in college,” added Jacobs. “I knew I wanted to be in ag, but didn’t know where I specifically wanted to be. Taking dual credit classes through Ivy Tech gave me the pathway to where I wanted to go in animal science and plant science.”

approximately 125 in its FFA program. “As long as I have kids who show an interest in it, then we’ll do it. I don’t care. I’m not a big soil judger myself, but if I have kids who want to do soil judging, we’ll do it.”

This year for National FFA week, Feb. 18-23, the Fairfield FFA chapter will be celebrating with a spirit week, including dress-up days the entire school can take part in. There will be prizes for members throughout the week, teacher appreciation gifts and classroom activities geared toward FFA recruitment.

also planning a pool party on either Monday or Thursday.

On Tuesday, members will visit area elementary schools to make agriculture presentations to second graders.

Wednesday is the FFA community supper and worker auction, one of the chapter’s primary fundraisers for the year along with the fish fry at homecoming and the flower sale, during which FFAers sold 1,000 mums.

At some point during the week, the chapter will also raise money for Helping Hands Food Pantry through the “Kiss a Critter” event when a teacher has to kiss a cow or sheep.

For more information on TVHS FFA activities visit facebook.com/ profile.php?id=100054565325608

ServSafe food manager class/exam to be offered in Elkhart County

ServSafe educates food service workers about food safety and ServSafe Food Protection Manager is the highest ServSafe certification.

The certification satisfies Indiana requirements to become a Certified Food Protection manager and focuses on five aspects:

• Foodborne microorganisms and allergens.

• Personal hygiene.

• Purchasing, receiving and storage.

• Preparing, cooking and serving.

• Facilities, cleaning/sanitation and managing pests.

The ServSafe Food Manager class will be held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 29, at the Purdue Extension Elkhart County office at the Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds in Goshen. Check-in will be at 7:45 a.m. The full oneday training includes a manual and proctored exam.

The certification is valid for five years. A photo ID with signature is required to take the exam (driver’s license, state ID, student ID, military ID, employee ID, U.S. green card or valid passport).

To register with a credit card, visit cvent.me/laaQRP; to register with a check, visit bit.ly/

ServSafeElkhart329 to print out a mailable registration form. Registration deadline is Monday, March 20.

For more information, contact Emily Christ at ewitters@purdue. edu or (574) 533-0554. This program and all programs of the Purdue University Extension Service are open to everyone. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, call (574) 533-0554 by Wednesday, March 15. This course is intended for food service managers. To obtain your food service handler certification, you must take the ServSafe Food Handler training.

James F. Tarr

U.S. Army Veteran

James F. Tarr, 89, died Friday, Jan. 20, 2023. Although he lived on Dewart Lake, he was a winter resident of Fort Myers, Fla. He would have been 90 on April 26.

He is survived by his wife of almost 65 years, Marion Berning; five children, Gregg Tarr, Fort Wayne, Debi Rookstool, Syracuse, Cindy Ryan, Largo, Fla., Teri Schroer, Munster, and Lisa Batchelder, Larkspur, Calif.; and 13 grandchildren. He also leaves a brother, David Tarr, Fort Wayne.

As a young man, Jim went to Korea, serving in the Army. Thereafter, he graduated from the university to become a teacher at South Side High School in Fort Wayne for 30 years. Upon retiring to his lake home, he became a talented artist and owner of Tarr Outdoor Advertising between hours of golfing and fishing.

A celebration of his life will be held this summer.

Carol Ann Alexander

Carol Ann Alexander, 89, Winona Lake, died Jan. 31, 2023.

She was born Oct. 24, 1933. On Aug. 7, 1953, she married John “Jack” Alexander, who preceded her in death.

Surviving are daughters, Joyce Price, Judith Wilson, Janice Fife and Joan Anderson; sons, Jay Alexander, Jeffrey Alexander, Jim Alexander and John Alexander; 21 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren with one on the way in July; brother-in-law, Rev. Robert Alexander; one niece; and three nephews.

Family and friends may gather from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 832 E. Center St., Warsaw. The memorial service will immediately follow at 2 p.m. Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Warsaw, is in charge of arrangements.

Frederick J. Anderson

Frederick J. Anderson, 64, rural Peru, died at 1 a.m. Feb. 5, 2023.

He was born Oct. 28, 1958. On June 6, 1986, he married Debra Hostetler; she survives.

Also surviving are his children, Valarie Parsons, De Leon Springs, Fla., Becky Anderson, Roann, and Eli Anderson, Mexico, Ind.; two grandchildren; father and stepmother, Herbert and Beth Anderson, North Manchester; sister, Barb Mowery, Warsaw; and half brothers, Gary Anderson, Urbana, and Mark Anderson, Wabash.

There will be a celebration of Fred’s life at a later date. Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, Wabash, is in charge of arrangements.

Charles Barrett

Charles “Dustin” “Buster” Barrett, 40, Warsaw, died Feb. 4, 2023.

He was born June 16, 1982.

He is survived by his mother, Jackalyn “Jackie” Barrett, Warsaw; brother, Steven Barrett, Columbia City; sister, Deborah Barrett, Tippecanoe; and several aunts and uncles.

A memorial service was held Feb. 13 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw, at a later date.

Sheryl A. Bradshaw

Sheryl A. Bradshaw, 53, North Webster, died Feb. 8, 2023.

She was born Aug. 26, 1969. On June 19, 1999, she married Michael Bradshaw; he survives.

Also surviving are sons, John Jones and Anthony Bradshaw; a granddaughter; father, Doug Thompson; sister, Melissa Stuller; brother, Adam Thompson; best friend, Vicki Smith, and her children; and many nieces and nephews.

Services were held Feb. 11 at Owen Family Funeral Home, North Webster.

Angela Lynn Brooks

Angela Lynn Ray Brooks, 52, Newman Grove, Neb., died Jan. 30, 2023.

She was born Feb. 15, 1970. On

daughter, Randi Cunningham, Columbia City; his children, Christopher Cunningham, North Webster, Brooke Martin, Clemmons, N.C., Bethany Wolfe, Warsaw, and Jordan Cunningham, Stanford, Ill.; stepchildren, Landon Lawrence and Stephen “Nathan” Lawrence, both of Columbia City, and Sheldon Lawrence, South Whitley; 16 grandchildren; a brother, Robert Cunningham, Wakarusa; and a sister, Cindy Philley, Goshen.

A graveside service was held Feb. 11 at Troy Presbyterian Church, Columbia City. Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City, was in charge of arrangements.

Deloris Lee Deardorff

Deloris Lee Deardorff, 75, Warsaw, died at 2:21 p.m. Feb. 3, 2023.

She was born Dec. 20, 1947.

Surviving are brothers, Dana and Donald Deardorff; and a niece.

Per her wishes, no public services will be held. Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Rick B. Greenlee

Rick B. Greenlee, 67, Bourbon, died Feb. 5, 2023.

He was born Jan. 20, 1956. In September 1984, he married Carman Gardner; she survives.

He is also survived by a son, Jesse Greenlee, Nappanee; sisters, D, Ashville, N.C., Diane “Charlene” Young, Moore, S.C., Nina Young, Bourbon, and Joyce Cripps, Ashville, N.C.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services were held Feb. 10 at Bourbon United Methodist Church. Burial was in Morris Cemetery, LaPaz. Deaton-Clemens Funeral Home, Bourbon, was in charge of arrangements.

Shane Holbrook

Shane Holbrook, 68, New Paris, died Feb. 6, 2023.

July 4, 2004, she married Mark Brooks; he survives.

She is also survived by her mother, Glenda Elliott, North Manchester; her father, Richard Ray, Louisville, Ky.; brother, Mick Ray, Claypool; sisters, Susan Chandler, Fort Wayne, Jackie Allison, Julie Dunlap and Laura Travis, all of Westfield; and many nieces and nephews.

A casual celebration of life was held Feb. 11 at Eel River Community Church of the Brethren, Silver Lake.

Thomas Bugg

Thomas Bugg, 81, Chapman Lake, died Feb. 8, 2023.

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

Stephen Cartwright

Stephen “Steve” Cartwright, 80, Warsaw, died Feb. 8, 2023.

He was born July 3, 1942. In 1977, he marred Dian Hoodelmier; she survives.

Also surviving are daughters, Amy Goon and Shana Humphreys; three grandchildren; six greatgrandchildren; his great-aunt; and the Heffley and Englehart families of Fort Wayne.

Services were held Feb. 14 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw. Interment was private.

Brad Conrad

Brad Conrad, 67, Wakarusa, died at 12:45 a.m. Feb. 9, 2023.

He was born Oct. 21, 1955.

He is survived by a sister, Jan Nunemaker, Wakarusa; brother, Jay A. Conrad, Wakarusa; two nieces; and a nephew.

Services were held Feb. 12 at Rieth Rohrer Ehret Lienhart Funeral Home, Wakarusa. A graveside service was held Feb. 13 at Olive (West) Cemetery.

Randall R. Cunningham

Randall Ray Cunningham, 66, Columbia City, died at 2 p.m. Feb. 8, 2023.

He was born Nov. 7, 1956. On Dec. 7, 1996, he married Cindy Lea Herman; she survives.

He is also survived by their

Mass of Christian burial was held Feb. 9 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Warsaw. A graveside service followed at Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw. Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Carla G. Dutchess

Carla G. Dutchess, 97, North Manchester, formerly of Rochester, died at 12:20 p.m. Feb. 6, 2023.

She was born Aug. 16, 1925. On July 23, 1966, she married Lloyd A. Dutchess. He preceded her in death May 30, 1994.

Survivors include her nieces and nephews; eight great-nieces and nephews; and eight great-great-nieces and nephews.

Services were held Feb. 12 at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Burial was in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester.

Royse M. Engle

Royse M. Engle, 92, Winona Lake, died Feb. 7, 2023.

He was born Jan. 20, 1931. On April 7, 1952, he married Earline Richardson. She preceded him in death Jan. 1, 2022.

Surviving are his children, Timothy Engle, Columbus, Ohio, Debra Runkle, Peru, Steve Engle, Winona Lake, and Terry Engle, Claypool; brother, Max Engle, Warsaw; sister, Nancy Kleeman, Warsaw; three grandchildren; and three greatgrandchildren.

Private services will be held at a later date. McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw, is in charge of arrangements.

Lorraine Freeman

Lorraine Freeman, 74, Warsaw, died Feb. 7, 2023.

She was born Oct. 27, 1948. On July 23, 1974, she married George Freeman III, who preceded her in death in January 2021.

Surviving are her children, Timothy and Kristina Freeman; brothers, Brian Burke, Gerard Burke and Larry Burke; sister, Virginia Burke Simmonds; several nieces and nephews; sister-in-law, Nancy Wettje; and brothers-in-law, Jimmy Freeman, David Freeman, Billy Freeman and Michael Freeman.

She was born Aug. 14, 1954. On Oct. 10, 1972, she married Ricky Holbrook; he survives.

She is also survived by a daughter, Nikki Baker, Kalamazoo, Mich.; a bonus daughter, Kelly Hathaway; three grandchildren; a brother, Michael Sheley, Goshen; and lifelong friend and sister, Martha Sholtey.

Visitation was held Feb. 10 at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen. A graveside service was held Feb. 11 at Oakridge Cemetery, Goshen.

Randy Lee Hurd

Randy Lee Hurd, 54, Burket, died at 7:48 a.m. Feb. 2, 2023.

He was born June 30, 1968. On Sept. 27, 2003, he married Tammy Lyn Robinson; she survives.

Also surviving are sons, Justin Peconga, Syracuse, and Jesse Montauge, Burket; daughters, Heaven McCoy, Claypool, Nichole Drummond, Winona Lake, and Alex Peconga, Burket; four grandchildren; brothers, Jeff Hurd, Warsaw, and Dave Hurd, South Whitley; and many nieces and nephews.

Services were held Feb. 7 at New Hope Free Will Baptist Church, Warsaw. A graveside service followed at Graceland Cemetery, Claypool. Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

John J. Jewell

John J. Jewell, 68, Akron, died at 1:47 p.m. Feb. 7, 2023.

He was born Aug. 22, 1954. On Aug. 25, 1979, he married Rhonda Yazel; she survives.

He is also survived by a son, Rory Jewell, Fort Wayne; daughter, Chaitra Adams, Akron; five grandchildren with one on the way; sister, Phyllis Bendzunas, Bluffton, S.C.; brother, George Jewell, South Bend; brother-in-law, Mike Yazel, Mentone; sister-in-law, Teresa Jones, Brookston; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service is being planned at King Memorial Home, Mentone. A private family interment will take place in Mentone Cemetery.

Rita M. Kolb

Rita M. Kolb, 65, Syracuse, died Feb. 5, 2023.

She was born June 30, 1957.

She is survived by a son, Lance Kolb; and siblings, Ronald Thornburg, Stony Thornburg, Jerry Thornburg, Jim Thornburg, JoAnne Drake and John Thornburg.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28, at Oak Park Cemetery, Ligonier. Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Warsaw, is in charge of arrangements.

Phillip Ladd

Phillip Ladd, 82, Kimmell, died Feb. 7, 2023.

Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of North Webster.

Shirley Ann Priser

Shirley Ann Priser, 85, Warsaw, died Feb. 8, 2023.

She was born Sept. 25, 1937. On July 30, 1954, she married James Michael Priser, who preceded her in death.

She is survived by a son, Jack Priser; daughter-in-law, Sally Priser; sister, Cindy Shelton; seven grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.

Services were held Feb. 13 at Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Warsaw. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.

Continued on page 10

O BITUARIES

Continued from page 9

Jerry Lee Rathbun

Jerry Lee Rathbun, 85, Fort Wayne, formerly of Warsaw, died at 4:44 a.m. Feb. 3, 2023.

He was born Sept. 20, 1937. On June 4, 1960, he married Susan Diane Babcock. She preceded him in death July 23, 2014. On June 26, 2016, he married Ruth Ione (Cameron) Casner; she survives.

He is also survived by a daughter, Jennifer Judy, Fort Wayne; stepson, Matthew C. Casner, Warsaw; two grandchildren; two stepgrandchildren; three stepgreat-grandchildren; and a sister, Suzanne Page, Sun City, Ariz.

Services were held Feb. 7 at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw. A graveside service was held Feb. 8 at Concordia Cemetery Gardens, Fort Wayne. Military rites were performed by members of the American Legion Post 49 of Fort Wayne.

Bonnie Jean Rock

Bonnie Jean Rock, 88, New Paris, died at 7:50 a.m. Feb. 6, 2023. She was born April 13, 1934. On June 15, 1984, she married Eugene J. “Gene” Rock. He preceded her in death June 26, 2010.

Surviving are her children, Allen Postma, Flower Mound, Texas, and Penny Wilchewsky, New Paris; stepdaughters, Susan Schrock, Goshen, and Donna Whittaker, Florida; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and numerous stepgrandchildren and stepgreatgrandchildren.

Services were held Feb. 11 at Grace United Methodist Church, New Paris. Burial was in New Paris Cemetery. Rieth Rohrer Ehret Funeral Home, Goshen, was in charge of arrangements.

Wilma M. Ruch

Wilma M. Ruch, 88, Milford, died Feb. 6, 2023.

C OUNTY R EPORT

Court News

Small Claims

Kosciusko County

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

General Audit Corporation v. Rebecca G. Acheson, $223.74; v. Heidi Dolbee, $888.91; v. Tiffany Isley, $756.18

Phillip McCord, $711.27; v. Ladonna D. Mort, $525; v. Nellie Stevens, $3,037.34; v. Donald Stone, $525

H&L Motors v. Jennifer Anderson, $3,166.80; v. Tammy Morris, $2,728.64

Jeff Currie d/b/a Currie Roofing v. Austin Miotto d/b/a Quality Restoration and Richard Miotto d/b/a Quality Restoration, $7,008

RealAmerica Management LLC v. William K. Austin, $2,421.03

Sherri Makinson v. Rodney Bliss III, $2,710

Aegis Dental Group Warsaw P.C. v. Amanda N. Denz, $3,219.52; v. Jared A. Hurd, $745; v. Grant A. Mast, $1,540.15 Glenbrook Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Kristy K. Elam, $6,418.16; v. Kenneth R. Smith, $3,790.15; v. Rachel M. Wallen, $4,116.33

SAC Finance Inc. v. Austin W. Ferguson, $5,503; v. Kaelen T. Jewell, $2,475.77; v. Yulana B. Markley, $6,917.80; v. Mary A. Miller, $9,538.45; v. Jensine M. Stroh, $7,678.35

One Advantage LLC v. James C. Heckaman, $2,237.87

Warsaw Health System v. Joseph Heeter, $4,364.91

Hollar Dental v. Lisa M. Howard, $979.40; v. Kelly Williams, $2,415.03; v. Ginger S. Wiley, $1,525.89

Stucky, Lauer & Young LLP v. Anthony T. Quillen, $377.63; v. Dennis D. Stevens, $482.90; v. Larry K. Swick, $621.08

Civil Collections

Kosciusko County

The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Chris Kehler presiding: Interra Credit Union v. Brody A. Bays, $4,721.14

Midland Credit Management Inc. v. Renda S. Brower, $1,247.02; v. Leah Espinoza, $1,700.98; v. Ron W. Davis, $1,736.30

Credit Service International v. Megan Cromer, $2,893; v. Alysa K. Kohler, $1,018.86. v. Zaren Linville, $669.05; v. Todd G. Vincent, $2,151.45; v. Kelly Williams, $2,415.03

Capital One, N.A. v. Joni L. Essex,

$3,429.26

Onemain Financial Group LLC v. Kimberly A. Fall, $4,446.21

Glenbrook Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Eric W. Frazier, $9,184.09

1st Source Bank v. Jonathan P. Fussle and Sky Team Properties LLC

$1,172,963.89

LVNV Funding LLC v. William Hunt, $855.41; v. Judy Mauk, $1,963.13; v. Skyler Miller, $1,431.64; v. Angela Jil-

She was born July 14, 1934. On May 16, 1959, she married Robert “Hap” Ruch, who preceded her in death in 2000.

She is survived by her children, Douglas Ruch and Myra Steele; four grandchildren; seven greatgrandchildren with one on the way; brothers, Vern Borkholder and Wilbur Borkholder; and sisters, Vera Graff, Inez Schmucker and Orpha Toth.

Services were held Feb. 10 at Mishler Funeral Home, Milford. Graveside service followed at Milford Cemetery.

Shirley Scott

Shirley Scott, 69, Tippecanoe, died Feb. 6, 2023.

She was born Feb. 5, 1954. On Dec. 7, 1995, she married Robert Scott; he survives.

She is also survived by a son, Shawn Griffith, Pierceton; six grandchildren; her great-grandchil-

dren; brothers, Monroe Allen, Packerton, and Nero Allen, Warsaw; and sister, Pauline Vegar, Warsaw.

Services were held Feb. 13 at Deaton-Clemens Funeral Home, Bourbon. Burial was in Summit Chapel Cemetery, Bourbon.

Ruby K. Shepherd

Ruby Katherine Shepherd, 59, Ligonier, died Feb. 2, 2023.

She was born Dec. 12, 1963.

Surviving are daughters, Emily Skaggs, Michigan, and Catherine Shepherd, Brimfield; sons, Randy Goggans, Kimmell, and Dillon Hopkins, Ligonier; six grandchildren; siblings, Pamela Howard, Kenansville, Fla., Debra Murray, Fort Wayne, Thomas Goggans, Albion, Tracy Thieme, Wawaka, Robin Urso, Albion, Rachel Hile, Albion, and John Grunden, Huntington; and many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

In keeping with Ruby’s wishes, no public visitation or services are planned. The family will host a private gathering. Yeager Funeral Home, Ligonier, was in charge of arrangements.

Tyler S. Smith

liane Slaughter, $3,903.96; v. Scott Wallis, $699.08

Mariner Finance v. Jordan L. Keaffaber, $1,903.96

SAC Finance Inc. v. Benjamin Krivak

Jr. and Stephanie E. Royer, $11,297.92

Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Anthony

Linen, $4,626.51

PYOD LLC v. Joseph Milleman, $1,008.06; v. Mark Porter, $864.60 Elkhart County

The following civil collection has been awarded in Elkhart County Courts: Lake City Bank v. Chester Yoder, Nappanee, $19,770.23

Evictions

The following eviction has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:

Stan Miller v. Calvin Ousley and Jessica Smith, $5,800 Elkhart County

Sunnybrook Rentals v. Charity Begin, Nappanee, $1,600

Mortgage Foreclosures

The following mortgage foreclosure has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:

Ruoff Mortgage Company Inc. v. FR Syracuse, LLC, Arielle E. Thompson and Christian N. Thompson, $119,301.15

Civil Torts

The following civil tort has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Chris Kehler presiding: Progressive Paloverde Insurance Company v. Dalton W. Letner, $4,574.20

Superior Court III

The following infractions have been filed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:

Failure to yield right of way at highway entrance — Tiffany J. Snodgrass, Warsaw, $160.50

Speeding — Thanashree Balakrishnan, Warsaw, $160.50; Brandon D. Salmons, Warsaw, $160.50; Chloe E. Smith, Warsaw, $160.50; David D. Fiant II, Cromwell, $160.50; Martha E. Granados, North Webster, $160.50; Katelyn

N. Berg, Argos, $160.50

No valid driver’s license — Carlos Nunez, Warsaw, $160.50; Santiago Romero Contreras, Warsaw, $160.50; Sukhwinder Singh, Syracuse, $160.50

Driving while suspended — Jason

E. Hunt, Warsaw, $185.50

Driving left of center — Andrew L. Goss, Warsaw, $160.50

Learner’s permit violation — Luis

A. Palacios-Sanchez, Warsaw, $160.50

Operating a motor vehicle with a fictitious plate — Autumn E. Montanez Naus, Warsaw, $160

No valid driver’s license, speeding — Tyler K. Riggin, Cromwell, $185.50

Child restraint system violation

(child at least 8 but less than 16) — Jason L. McPherson, Cromwell, $50

Child restraint system violation

(child less than 8 years old) — Jason

L. McPherson, Cromwell, $50

Operating with expired plates — Christopher Lee Williams Jr., Atwood, $160

Disregarding stop sign — Leslie J. Miles, Warsaw, $160.50

Failure of occupant to use safety belt — Leviticus Cheyanne Sales, Warsaw, $25

Marriage Licenses

Kosciusko County

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

Ann Torpy:

Charles-Fields

Jonathan Charles, 39, Warsaw, and Brianne L. Fields, 24, Warsaw Sluder-Riley

Luke D. Sluder, 38, Warsaw, and Marilyn C. Riley, 33, Warsaw Black-Umanzor

Dylan J. Black, 18, Silver Lake, and Isabella S. Umanzor, 19, South Whitley Burner-Robinson

Erich M. Burner, 40, Warsaw, and Milly M. Robinson, 42, Warsaw Griffith-Fancher

Austin J. Griffith, 30, Syracuse, and Raven R. Fancher, 26, Syracuse Hughes-Jervis

Jeremy Hughes, 42, Warsaw, and Tiffiany D. Jervis, 32, Warsaw Denton-Conway

Tyrus M. Denton, 33, Syracuse, and Kelly M. Conway, 27, Syracuse

Marriage Dissolutions

Kosciusko County

The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in the Kosciusko Superior and Circuit Courts: Stufflebeam — Aimee Stufflebeam, North Webster, and Joshua Stufflebeam, Pierceton. Married: Aug. 25, 2012. Separated: Feb. 7, 2023. There are three minor children.

Adams-Tran — Haley Adams, Warsaw, and Larry Tran, Silver Lake. Married: July 10, 2010. Separated: Nov. 28, 2022. There are three minor children.

Hershberger — Brittney Hershberger, Nappanee, and Mahlon Hershberger, Nappanee. Married: Dec. 5, 2015. Separated: Feb. 8, 2023. There are two minor children.

White-Rickard — Amanda White, Warsaw, and Joshua Rickard, Moreno Valley, Calif. Married: Feb. 20, 2015. Separated: May 9, 2015. There are no minor children.

Drumm-Woodall — Cory Drumm, Claypool, and Rebbecca Woodall, Mentone. Married: May 19, 2018. Separated: October 2021. There are no minor children.

Also surviving are sons, Jackson Mitchell, Colorado, and Logan Stahley, Warsaw; a stepdaughter, Heather Staley, Goshen; two stepgrandchildren; and a sister, Abbie Boyer, Nappanee.

Visitation will be from 2 p.m. until the 4 p.m. funeral service Thursday, Feb. 16, at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen.

Donald Dean Taylor

Donald Dean Taylor, 89, Pierceton, died Feb. 2, 2023.

He was born Aug. 28, 1933. On Aug. 29, 1954, he married Barbara Snavely. She preceded him in death in January 2019.

Surviving are daughters, Rhonda McCool, Donita Raypholtz and Becki Evans; nine grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Jack Snavely; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held Feb. 7 at Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Warsaw.

B IRTHS

Tyler S. Smith, 36, Greencastle, formerly of Syracuse, died Feb. 9, 2023.

Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse.

Donald E. Stackhouse

Donald E. Stackhouse, 88, Nappanee, died at 7:11 a.m. Feb. 2, 2023.

He was born Aug. 26, 1934. On July 11, 1954, he married Patricia Gramling; she survives.

Also surviving are his children, Valerie Koch, Sugar Grove, Ohio, Mark Stackhouse, Fort Wayne, and Mindy Myers, Nappanee; nine grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; a brother, Myron Stackhouse, Waterloo; and a sister, Melda Veit, Kendallville.

A memorial service was held Feb. 10 at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee.

Willis Stahley

Willis “Ed” Stahley, 72, Goshen, died Feb. 7, 2023.

He was born Jan. 11, 1951. On Nov. 9, 2013, he married Brenda Sue (Wilden) Kramer; she survives.

Ember Elizabeth Hostetler

Carlon and Lillian (Esh) Hostetler are the parents of a daughter, Ember Elizabeth, born at 3:04 a.m. Feb. 3, 2023, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 8 pounds, 2.5 ounces, and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Isabelle Rose Hicks

Lincoln and Karisse (Wesco) Hicks, South Bend, are the parents of a daughter, Isabelle Rose, born at 9:59 a.m. Feb. 3, 2023, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 8 pounds, 8 ounces, and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Silas Ramer

Dana and Lucinda (Martin) Ramer, Elkhart, are the parents of a son, Silas, born at 9:53 p.m. Feb. 7, 2023, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 5 pounds, 8.5 ounces, and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Annabelle Rae Miller

Daryl and Dianne (Nissley) Miller, Goshen, are the parents of a daughter, Annabelle Rae, born at 9:32 p.m. Feb. 7, 2023, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 7 pounds and was 18 inches long.

Hall of Heroes Comic Con is March 4-5 in Elkhart

The Hall of Heroes Comic Con, the largest growing comic con in Northern Indiana and one of the biggest events in Michiana, is celebrating its sixth year. This year’s comic con will be held Saturday and Sunday, March 4-5, in the Northern Indiana Events Center/RV Hall of Fame, 21565 Executive Parkway, Elkhart, and will host nearly 100 vendors and regional artists selling comics, toys, artwork and much more.

Celebrities for this year are Lou Ferrigno from “The Incredible Hulk,” “Hercules” and “King of Queens”; Reb Brown from “Captain America,” “Uncommon Valor,” “Chips” and “Happy Days”; Johnny Yong Bosch, who is one of the industry’s top anime voice actors with over 400 different character credits, including “Power Rangers,” “Sailor Moon,” “Pokemon,” “Akira” and “Bleach”; David Barclay, who was a “Star Wars” master puppeteer for Yoda and Jabba The Hutt in “Empire Strikes Back” and “Return of the Jedi”; Jim Shooter, who served as the editor-in-chief of Marvel Comics after Stan Lee from 1978-1987 and was responsible for the cre-

ation of the black symbiote alien costume for Spider Man that later became Venom; and Tom Cook, a Hanna Barbara animator for “Scooby Doo,” “Super Friends” and “He-Man King of the Hill.”

The Hall of Heroes Comic Con will have events going on all weekend on two stages, with celebrities, artists, cosplay groups and educational panels throughout the weekend. They will also have a cosplay contest for both adults and children. “Star Wars,” “Star Trek” and many other cosplay groups will be set up. There will also be a special children’s cosplay area for kids to create their own costume.

The Hall of Heroes Comic Con will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 4, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 5.

VIP adult tickets for ages 13 and up are $50; VIP youth tickets for ages 3-12 are $35. Two-day admission tickets are $40 for adults and $24 for youth, and single day tickets are $24 for adults and $15 for youth.

Veterans receive a free ticket with proof of service.

For tickets or more information, visit hohcomiccon.org.

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

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Kids Market to host spring sale in Winona Lake

Kids Market has announced the 22nd anniversary of its biannual children’s sale Saturday, March 11, in Winona Lake.

The event will be held at the Gordon Health and Wellness Center, 100 Publishers Drive, on Grace College’s campus.

The spring sale will feature spring and summer clothing and shoes, in sizes for newborns to teenagers — all in great or new condition. The sale will also include toys, games, books, strollers, nursery furniture, bikes and

more. Everything is affordably priced.

“We are thrilled to be celebrating 22 years of supporting our community through Kids Market,” said Joye Andrew, Kids Market board member. “We are grateful for the support of our volunteers, consignors and shoppers, who make this event possible. We are especially excited to be able to give back to organizations that support women and children in our community.”

The sale begins at 8 a.m. Sat-

urday, March 11. The doors close from 12:30-1 p.m. From 1-4 p.m., everything will be sold at halfprice.

Anyone interested in consigning can register to participate in the sale starting now by visiting Kids Market’s website at kidsmarketinc.com and clicking the “Consign” tab.

Consignors keep 66% on the sale of their items, while 34% covers the minimal event overhead expenses and most importantly, goes back to local nonprofits help-

Bolt named Conservation Officer of the Year

Indiana Conservation Officer

Trevor Bolt has been selected as the 2022 District 1 Officer of the Year. District 1 includes St. Joseph, Elkhart, Marshall, Kosciusko, Fulton, Miami and Wabash counties.

Bolt is assigned to Marshall County where he has served since 2017. In addition to his normal duties as a field officer, Bolt serves as a division defensive tactics instructor.

The district award puts Bolt in the running for the Pitzer Award, which is presented to the top over-

all conservation officer in the state and is selected from the 10 district winners.

The Pitzer Award is named after Conservation Officer James D. Pitzer, who was fatally shot while investigating illegal hunting activity on Jan. 2, 1961, in Jay County.

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ing families right here in Kosciusko County.

Shoppers can find more information and updates about the

coming sale at kidsmarketinc. com or facebook.com/kidsmarketinc. The event is open to the public.

Lakeland Art to open with Marcadis and Dulik

The Lakeland Art Center & Gallery will open March 1 with exhibiting artists Samara Dulik and Kim Marcadis.

Dulik is a self-taught artist working primarily in acrylics, spray paints, inks, POSCA pens and at times, finger painting. Her own lyrical figuration uses bold color and whimsical elements. This is her own personal brand of painting that highlights color through the introduction of Graffitism.

Marcadis is a potter from North Webster. In 2004, she left for Matthews, N.C., and in 2005, she enrolled in classes at Clayworks Studio and Gallery in Charlotte, N.C. In 2016, Kim returned to North Webster and opened her own studio and gallery where she creates functional pottery with lots of color and texture.

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Her inspiration comes from nature. She often adds frogs, turtles, birds and dragonflies to her clay pieces. Marcadis enjoys exploring working with clay and surface designs using many different processes, techniques and materials. Both artists’ work will be on exhibit March 1-26. Their exhibits can be enjoyed from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday at the Lakeland Art Center & Gallery, 302 E. Winona Ave., Warsaw. There is no cost for admission.

It is the mission of the Lakeland Art Association to further the visual arts in Kosciusko and surrounding counties by challenging the creative spirit of local artists and community residents through visual arts education, the sharing of creative endeavors and public exhibits and events.

Contact the Lakeland Art Center & Gallery by emailing lakelandartassociation@gmail.com or by calling (574) 267-5568 or (574) 457-6085.

P

UBLIC A UCTIONS

Mobile Home Park, Woods Pond Auction

6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21. Property located at 4773 E. 100S, Pierceton. Information available online at metzgerauction.com.

Online Real Estate Auction

6 p.m. Wednesday, March 1. 2036 Pheasant Ridge Drive, Warsaw. 3,000-square-foot home with five bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms. Finished basement includes home theater room, family room, two bedrooms and bath. Open houses on Feb. 19, 22. Bid at metzgerauction.com.

Farmland Auction

6 p.m. Thursday, March 2, at Atwood Community Center. Farm located north of US 30 on 500W to 400N then east. 50 acres offered in two tracts. Crop land with woods and building sites. Metzgerauction.com.

Restaurant And Commercial Real Estate Auction

6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 7, at 139-141 E. Main St., North Manchester. Turn-key restaurant with family room and bar area. Liquor license and equipment included with seating capacity of 120 people. Inspections by appointment by calling (260) 982-0238. bidmetzger.com.