the Paper - Kosciusko County Edition - March 29, 2023

Habitat homes for single moms Women helping build

Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County hosted a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the start of the latest build of the season Monday, March 20, in Claypool.

For the first time, Habitat plans to build two homes at one time this year and complete both homes before 2024. The two homes will be built in Claypool for two single moms currently in Habitat’s homeownership program.

“We are very grateful to the town of Claypool. They donated this land to us,” said Ben Logan, Habitat’s director. “They gave us the land, helped us demolish the old house, and now we will be building two new homes where it used to stand. It’s a win-win for both the town and Habitat.”

The ceremony included a short presentation, scripture reading and a blessing on the construction site. It ended with the inaugural groundbreaking for both homes.

“This is an exciting time, but we are far from done,” said Logan. “Habitat still needs sponsors, funding and volunteers to make sure these homes are completed on schedule and the families can move in before 2024.”

Logan said land and empty lots are always needed to help build more homes.

“Sometimes, we buy them (the lots) but we raise our own money,” said Logan. “It’s really about building more affordable homes. There is a need.”

The homeowners must put “sweat equity” into the building process and must complete 250 hours per adult. They must also take financial literacy courses. Each Habitat home is “sold” back to the family with a 0% interest mortgage.

“They work for it, and they pay for it,” Logan said.

Habitat is a nonprofit organization and does not receive any government funds or tax dollars. Private donations and business sponsorships go toward purchasing building supplies

to build the homes.

Habitat has a “Women Build” project every year. This year’s “Women Build” is scheduled for June 19-24 in Claypool.

There is a $25 per person registration fee for this event. In return, each woman will receive a T-shirt, lunch and a water. The rest of the money raised will support the homes being worked on. There are limited first- come, firstserved spots available.

The homes will be built for Tracy and Kane Campbell and Courtney and Chloe Dickson. Both women are single mothers.

These homes are a blessing for the women in more ways than one.

For Courtney, though, the responsibility is a golden ticket out of cramped conditions. She is eager to provide a home for herself and her daughter.

“I tried looking for a house in 2020, but the housing market is insane,” Courtney said. “I was quoted $1,300 a month for a two-bedroom apartment.

How am I supposed to afford that?”

Courtney earns enough to disqualify her from any government assistance, but not enough to make the jump to homeownership on her own.

Tracy described what this home means to her family.

“It’s a blessing. I have thought long and hard, and that is what comes to mind all the time. God is good,” she said.

The Campbells had been living in a three-bedroom trailer that has fallen into major disrepair. Like the Dicksons, Tracy and Kane will be involved with the planning, organizing and building of the new home.

It takes around $100,000 to build a Habitat house, according to Logan.

To donate to Habitat for the building of the two Claypool homes, visit kosciuskohabitat.org/give. To sign up to volunteer on the build site, visit kosciuskohabitat.org/volunteer. To follow the progress of the homes, follow Habitat on Facebook or call Habitat at (574) 269-4104.

K NOW Y OUR N EIGHBOR

KCSS bookkeeper enjoys helping elderly clients

Beverly Hershberger has a passion for senior citizens. She is a bookkeeper for Kosciusko Community Senior Services in Warsaw. KCSS oversees the Mobile Meals program and the senior activity center.

She was born and raised in Goshen, graduating from Gos-

hen High School. After high school, she wasn’t sure what she wanted to do so she worked in a factory.

“I originally thought I wanted to be an attorney,” she said.

Hershberger began working at KCSS five years ago. She works alongside her sister, Jen Buzzard. The two share the same office.

“We make each other laugh,

especially at work,” she said. “She has a good sense of humor.”

On a daily basis, she answers the phones, pays bills and helps with the Mobile Meals program.

“I help with transportation,” she said. Volunteer drivers deliver meals to homebound residents.

She also visits the senior center, located in the same building, and takes part in some of its activities.

“I do some chair exercises,” she said. “I get to see and talk to a variety of people. I talk to my boss, David (Neff). I like the atmosphere, and I love the elderly.”

Hershberger also helps with writing and submitting the annual grant that KCSS receives through REAL Services.

She lives in Warsaw and has two adult children — a son and a daughter. She is married to Stanley, her husband of 30 years. Her hobbies include reading, selling jewelry on the side, going to yard sales, spending time with her best friend, and

going on vacation.

“We love to be outdoors, and I love the summer,” Hershberger stated. “I love the lake.”

She has two dogs named

Twinkie and Bear. Call Hershberger at (574) 2672012 for more information about Mobile Meals or to be a volunteer driver.

2022 Young Entrepreneur Scholarship winners

Matthews’ Painting Company and employees announced its 2022 Young Entrepreneur Scholarship winners. Each scholarship winner received $500.

Savanah Felegie, 12 years old, started Savanah’s Creations. Felegie makes blankets, handmade cards, soap and bracelets. She originally began her business to help her grandfather who was suffering from stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Her goal was to spread awareness and to help him financially with profits from the business. Her grandfather has since passed away.

Felegie said she really appreciated those that gave extra money to help pay for her grandfather’s chemo. Her current plan is to use the scholarship money to grow her business and to purchase more supplies. She plans to collaborate with a friend in order to offer more products for sale.

Reid Andrew, 18, is the second winner. He has owned and operated Legends Lawncare since he was 8. He offers mowing and yard services in the Winona Lake/Warsaw area. He plans to use the scholarship money to upgrade equipment and purchase signage to market his business.

Andrew’s current plan is to graduate high school and then continue to work and expand his business into his adult life and

looks forward to being a small business owner in the community. Visit matthewspainting.com/ y-e-s/ to nominate the company’s next Young Entrepreneur Scholarship winner.

Live Well Kosciusko celebrates successful program cohort

Live Well Kosciusko held a celebration dinner Tuesday, March 14, to reflect on a successful first cohort of their Clock Into Potential program.

Live Well is a local nonprofit organization dedicated to the promotion of the health and well-being of Kosciusko County residents. The Clock Into Potential program is a part of its healthy community initiative and was created and intended to ensure members of the community are thriving in their personal and professional lives.

The program consisted of three monthly workshops and one-on-one coaching from a mentor to help participants determine the areas they can grow in, develop a better un-

derstanding of themselves and their strengths and develop fiscal responsibility and habits to set them up for financial success and maximize their network within the county.

Between September and October 2022, 5,000 Gallup wellbeing surveys were distributed in Kosciusko County in an effort to evaluate how residents felt about their physical, financial and professional standing, fulfillment of their purpose and their place in the community.

Twenty-six percent of survey recipients responded, which revealed when compared to 156 metro surveys, Kosciusko County scored 20th in the country.

Live Well President and CEO Lisa Hartman stated although the survey reflected “good” statistics, Live Well wanted to create an initiative that would improve them further.

How to build a balanced breakfast

Making healthier choices can be difficult, overwhelming or even frustrating. However, it doesn’t have to be. If we find something we like and it is easy to follow, we are more likely to stick to it.

For some people, they don’t like to eat breakfast. On the other hand, some people rely on breakfast to get them through the day. Research has shown you are not fueling your body when you are depriving it. The goal is to fuel your body to improve your mental and physical health throughout the day. This usually means combining a multitude of things in your daily morning routine including breakfast.

Sometimes it just takes a bit of intentional planning for something to stick long term. Eating a toaster pastry or donut won’t fuel your body or your brain until lunch. The key is to include all five food groups in your breakfast (or any meal). By including complex carbohydrates, proteins and whole grains, you increase your chances of staying fuller longer.

If you eliminate heavily processed foods such as items with a lot of sugar, you decrease the risk of excessive hunger, heart disease and more. By balancing your breakfast in the morning, you are helping regulate and reduce the urge to snack throughout the day.

One example of a healthier breakfast option could be whole

wheat toast, peanut butter and a banana. Another option could be oatmeal, blueberries and chia seeds. You can incorporate foods you like but that don’t take a lot of time to prepare. In many cases, there is an option to make certain foods overnight so they are readily available in the morning such as overnight oats. These can be prepared the night before and stuck in the fridge with no cooking needed. It doesn’t always need to be complex. It needs to work for you and your lifestyle.

Hartman also expressed her gratitude for the role many local businesses played in the startup of the program as they contributed to the cost of the Gallup survey.

Amanda Eshelman, HR leader of Global IT at Zimmer Biomet and Live Well Career Purpose Committee member, spoke at the event.

“As we were exploring the data (from the survey), this program kind of revealed itself to us through the needs of the community,” she said. “We looked at our collective talents and what we had experience doing and came up with this curriculum.”

Eshelman was responsible for the introduction of Discovery Insights to the program, which is a type of personality test used in one of the workshops dedicat-

ed to relationships and community involvement.

“One of the things I love about Insights is that it helps us see, at a deeper level, that people naturally see the world differently,” she said. “When you can figure out where and why you come from a certain place, you learn to identify why and how other people tend to view the world.”

The participants were asked for feedback, as it was the first session of the program. They all expressed they enjoyed the personality test, had meaningful breakthroughs with their mentors and were able to make

changes in their lives, both small and large, that have benefited them immensely.

Program Mentor Karen Erba, who attended the dinner, stated, “Understanding your purpose and the greater meaning is really what drive everything in your life, so it was really powerful to give the mentors and mentees the opportunity to really examine that.”

The Live Well Career Purpose Committee stated they plan to hold another session of Clock Into Potential in the future and expressed their gratitude to all the volunteer mentors from the community.

New management hub in Warsaw Technolgy Park

The city of Warsaw and the Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation recently announced global supply chain solutions company Mentor Supply Chain USA will establish a ster-

ile packaging and supply chain management hub in Warsaw Technology Park.

Mentor Media will locate operations in a portion of the 100,000-square-foot shell build-

Elkhart Extension offering program on downsizing

By creating an end-of-life plan, you can relieve your family members of a huge burden. Learn about downsizing your personal possessions and get tips on what to keep, toss, donate or recycle.

Join Elkhart Extension for this free educational program presented by Emily Christ, Purdue University Extension Educator in Health & Human Sciences in Elkhart County. This program is

ing at 1395 Polk Drive under development at the Warsaw Tech Park. The operation will consist of medical device end-ofline processing and supply chain management services. West Hill Development LLC will complete build-out of the state-of-the-art 30,000-square-foot space for the company by Fall 2023.

ceremony, Wednesday, March 15. A ribbon-cutting celebration will take place later this year when the company formally opens the new location.

next three years. The company will begin hiring before Fall 2023.

At its Wednesday, March 8, meeting, the Kosciusko County Convention, Recreation and Visitors Commission approved a grant for the Lake City Skiers to establish more seating.

The Lake City Skiers requested a grant for the installation of bleachers at the November 2022 KCCRVC meeting and returned before the commission with the same request, as their need for additional seating is becoming more dire.

The team holds three large tournaments per year, with 2,300 people in attendance at the last Allstar

being offered at 2 p.m.

Thursday, April 6, in-person at the Nappanee Public Library. The program will be approximately an hour long.

If you would like to join the program, pre-register by calling the Nappanee Public Library at (574) 773-7919. This program and all programs of the Purdue University Extension Service are open to everyone.

“We’re pleased Mentor Media will be joining our medical device community in the Warsaw Technology Park” said Warsaw Mayor Joe Thallemer. “The city continues to support and incentivize companies in advanced manufacturing with Mentor Media as the latest to call Warsaw home.”

The City of Warsaw and KEDCO, along with local and state partners welcomed Mentor Media leadership to the community with a small groundbreaking

KCCRVC approves grant for more bleachers for Lake City Skiers

show. They plan to hold additional shows and tournaments in the future during the off-season, such as a doubles tournament and a jump tournament.

The grant request was for bleachers that would seat about 600 people, costing $71,808. After weighing the fiscal pros and cons, the commission moved to approve the grant, as the Lake City Skiers are extremely beneficial to local tourism.

In other business, Chad Jonnson spoke in representation of Henry Ward Park in Syracuse to request a grant for restroom renovations.

Jonnson said as the bathrooms need repair and there are multiple fishing tournaments held at the

lake, they would like to add the bathroom facility to the pavilion.

They have already obtained $77,000 in grant funding through other avenues, and were requesting $40,000 from the commission.

The overall project cost could range anywhere from $120,000$200,000, which is an estimate based on the Lakeside Park building project.

The commission agreed repairs were necessary and approved the grant.

The commission also heard the following updates:

Elisa Wise with Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts said they are halfway through the funding for phase one of renovations on White Hill and are looking at phase two, which includes the piping and plumbing in the building.

Cori Humes with Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors Bureau and Visitors Center said their 2023 digital visitors guide is now live and available on their website. They expect to have physical copies by mid- to late March.

The CVB also plans to apply for the Indiana Destination Development Corporation public art activation grant, install a piece from a local artist in the Visitors Center and do promotional work for National Tourism Week in May.

“We welcome another globalleading company to Kosciusko County to strengthen The Orthopedic Capital of the World,” said KEDCO CEO Alan Tio. “Mentor Media meets a long-known need for sterile packaging services that complements and bolsters our local industry.”

The Warsaw operation will serve as a medical device service hub, including controlled storage warehousing, ISO Class 7 cleanroom and final packaging lines. The cleanroom will house a prevalidated sterile packaging system compliant with the new EU Medical Device Regulations.

“We are excited and humbled by the warm welcome and support given by the city of Warsaw, Kosciusko County and the state of Indiana in this venture,” said Mentor Media President & CEO Lim Kok Khoon. “Warsaw is such a unique proposition with its strong orthopedic ecosystem and community. We look forward to offering valuable state-of-the-art supply chain and medical device packaging solutions to this region.”

Additionally, the company will offer a full suite of supply chain services including sourcing and procurement, operations management, customer service, warehousing and global distribution services. The company plans to hire nearly 50 employees in the

“Mentor Supply Chain USA’s choice to locate operations in Indiana is a win for Hoosiers,” said Ann Lathrop, chief strategy officer for the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. “The company’s strong reputation and subject matter expertise in medical devices and logistics adds to two of the state’s strongest ecosystems and will create highquality career opportunities in and around Warsaw.”

Based on the company’s job creation plans, the IEDC committed an investment in Mentor Supply Chain USA Inc. of up to $750,000 in the form of incentive-based tax credits and up to $75,000 in training grants. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired.

Warsaw Technology Park is one of approximately two dozen certified technology parks in Indiana. The development-ready business park is a partnership between the Warsaw Redevelopment Commission and West Hill Development that offers 100 plus acres with underground utilities, stoplight access to US 30, and access to an on-site Ivy Tech Community College facility.

Learn more about Mentor Media at www.mentormedia.com. Connect with KEDCO atwww. kosciuskoedc.com and via Facebook, Linkedin and Instagram @ kosciuskoedc. Connect with the City of Warsaw at www.warsaw. in.gov and via Facebook.

Join Warsaw Parks for ceramics and popcorn

Join the Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department during spring break by painting a ceramic piece and enjoying freshly made popcorn from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 5, at the Pete Thorn Gym.

Each purchased kit will come with a ceramic piece, paint and brushes and a bag of freshly popped popcorn.

If you can’t make it to the inperson program, you will may opt for a pick-up kit. During the checkout process, you will be prompted to opt for either in-

person or pick-up. If you opt for in-person, you can simply show up between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. April 5 and paint a ceramic. If you opt to pick up a kit, the department asks that all kits be picked up no later than 4 p.m. Friday, April 7. Popcorn is also not available with the pick-up option.

Registration is open through March 31 or until filled.

Those needing assistance or answers to questions can e-mail the parks department or call them at (574) 372-9554.

Phone 1-800-733-4111

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Echoes of the Past support American Legion Honor Guard

One of the greatest services a man or woman can do in their lifetime is to serve their country. Thousands of those servants are buried right here in Kosciusko County. American Legion Post 49 is taking on the monumental task of making sure all of those veterans are recognized by placing flags at their graves.

The Legion is beginning a threeyear project of identifying, recording and organizing the burial sites of veterans in the 83 cemeteries throughout Kosciusko County. By doing so, this also makes their project of marking each veteran grave with a flag for Memorial Day an easier task as the project progresses.

The Echoes of the Past recently donated to this worthwhile project. On March 21, a check for $1,000 to Post Commander John Mort. The funds will be used to purchase flags for the Memorial Day project marking the graves in the county of those who so proudly served in the armed services.

The funds will also support the needs of the Honor Guard. The Honor Guard performs 60 to 70 funerals per year at no cost to the families of the fallen service member. The Echoes of the Past, through their events and soybean planting project, raise funds to give back to the community. When approached about this deserving project, they were honored to contribute and help Post 49 try to reach their goal.

John Mort, post commander of American Legion Post 49, stated this three-year project will be quite the undertaking. They currently place flags at Oakwood Cemetery, Palestine, Wooden Cemetery and Union Cemetery and this past Memorial Day they fell short about 200 flags.

The Legion also places bronze markers at the grave of a veteran if it is not already marked with one provided by the VA. Taking on all 83 identified area cemeteries will require funding and volunteers. If you would like to contribute financially or volunteer your time, con-

tact John Mort at johnmortusn@ yahoo.com , (574) 265-7147 or the American Legion at Al49warsaw@ gmail.com, (574) 267-5549.

Elkhart Extension offering Dining with Diabetes educational series

Diabetes is a very serious and costly health condition, but research has shown those who learn to manage their blood glucose levels, exercise regularly, and eat healthy can lower their risks of complications and lead a healthier and more productive life.

Purdue Extension Elkhart County is offering the statewide Dining with Diabetes series in May. Dining with Diabetes is a weekly class that runs for four weeks. The

four classes will be offered Monday, May 1, 8, 15 and 22. Classes will be held from 2-4 p.m. at the Nappanee Public Library. A follow-up session will take place on Monday, Aug. 21, at 2 p.m.

The class is open to those with diabetes, their family members, and caretakers. The series costs $40 per person or $65 per couple and includes a notebook and printed materials. Couples will share a notebook. Pre-registration is required

State Sen. Blake Doriot honored for organ donation legislation

State Sen. Blake Doriot (R-Goshen) was recently honored as a Champion for Donation for his legislation regarding organ donations.

Doriot was recognized for authoring a law in 2020 requiring the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to ask all hunters, anglers and trappers applying for their licenses if they wish to become organ donors.

Doriot continued his work to expand avenues for Hoosiers to commit to organ donation in 2022 when he authored a law that requires the Professional Licensing Agency to maintain a system that allows an individual applying for or renewing a license or certificate to become an organ donor.

“I’ve always dedicated myself to

supporting organ donation, and I am extremely grateful to be honored as a Champion for Donation,” Doriot said. “Organ donation is something I have a personal connection with, and I’m always looking for ways to raise awareness and make it more accessible for the average Hoosier.”

Doriot was recognized at the Angel Fund Gala, a fundraiser hosted by the Indiana Donor Network to raise awareness and funds for the Angel Fund.

The Angel Fund provides assistance to transplant recipients who could not otherwise afford their medications. The fund has expanded to include grief support to the families, specifically children, of organ donors.

and participants are encouraged to attend all class sessions.

Participants will learn up-todate information on nutrition, meal planning, exercise and how to understand common diabetes related medical tests as well as how to prepare meals that are healthy, easy to prepare and tasty. Recipes will be demonstrated and samples will be available to participants.

Register online at cvent.me/ ErmdAP by April 21. For more information, contact Emily Christ at (574) 533-0554 or email ewitters@ purdue.edu. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, please call the office at (574) 533-0554 by April 15.

New exhibition at Warsaw City Hall

We are excited to announce local artist Kim Lanoue is the next exhibitor at the Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery! She will be showing her artwork starting on Thursday, March 30, and will be exhibiting through the end of June.

Lanoue currently lives in Fort Wayne, but hails from the suburbs of Detroit, Mich. She retired from nursing in 2020, but her first love and passion have always been art, especially oil painting. She started out experimenting with acrylic paints but as time went on, felt drawn to oil paints. She has always been captivated by the Impasto technique, where paint is laid on an area of the surface thickly, usually thick enough that the brush strokes are visible. When dry, the Impasto technique provides texture; the paint appears to be coming out of the canvas. (https://en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/Impasto) You will see the Impasto technique used on some of her artwork.

Lanoue is a member of the Fort Wayne Artists Guild, which promotes interest in the fine arts, furthers members artistic knowledge, and encourages fellowship among members of the Guild and the art community at large. In late summer of 2020, Lanoue entered into the city’s Kekionga Plein Air Event where plein air artists

gather to paint, exhibit and compete for over $10,000 in awards and prizes. After experiencing the event, Lanoue became passionate about plein air art and continues to participate in the Plein Air Event yearly. Her paintings are on display throughout Fort Wayne in businesses, government buildings, churches and nursing homes.

Landscapes have always been Lanoue’s first love, but she also enjoys painting still life, pet portraits, and farm animals and paints in oils and pastels. She looks forward to sunny mornings and evenings when she can paint outside and capture the brilliant light and shadows visible in nature. Creating art in the outdoors brings Lanoue a peaceful feeling and being outside painting fills her with energy and inspiration.

Her goal is to captivate her viewers and enable them to envision the beauty surrounding them.

Lanoue’s charming artwork is available for viewing and purchase at the Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery beginning on Thursday, March 30. Located at 102 S. Buffalo St. in Warsaw, the gallery is open from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily and admission is free. For more information, contact (574) 372-9595.

Events:

• Ford Meter Box Calendar Competition: The annual calendar competition for Ford Meter Box is underway and artists are invited to submit artwork for a chance to be selected to have their artwork included in the calendar and win a cash prize. There is a limit of 4 submissions per artist and the entries must be submitted digitally.

For a list of the rules of the event or for more information, contact Michele Ilyas at milyas@fordmeterbox.com or Tanya Denney at tdenney@fordmeterbox.com. Inform them you learned about the competition from Darla McCammon in this column.

• Lakeland Art Center & Gallery: The monthly meeting for the Lakeland Art Association is being held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 28, at the Art Center & Gallery. Kim Marcadis will be talking about her process for creating her beautiful and functional pottery. Members and non-members are welcome to attend. Coming in April, the LAA will be presenting the art of Hilarie Couture: Unity with Variety. The gallery hours are 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and admission is free.

The gallery is located at 302 E. Winona Avenue in Warsaw. For more information email lakelandartassociation@gmail.com.

• Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery: This is the last week to see the exciting artwork of Deana Harvey. She will be displaying her artwork through March 28, at the Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery located at 102 S. Buffalo St. in Warsaw. The gallery is open from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily and admission is free.

To exhibit at Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery, contact Darla McCammon, curator, at (574) 5274044 (leave a message) or email to 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.

OBITUARIES

Susan M. Aderman

Susan Margarite Aderman, 66, Warsaw, died at 3:15 a.m. March 19, 2023.

She was born June 15, 1956. On Dec. 20, 1980, she married Richard Aderman.

She is survived by a son, Eric Aderman, Bedford; daughters, Sarah Aderman, Rochester, and Gretchen Aderman, Warsaw; sisters, Mary Trombadore, Virginia, and Elizabeth Milliman, Fort Wayne; and brothers, Dwight French, California, Kent French, Arizona, John French, Warsaw, and Andy French, Winona Lake.

Visitation was held March 23 at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw. A private family graveside service was held at Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.

Donna Marie Anderson

Donna Marie Anderson, 68, Warsaw, died March 18, 2023.

She was born June 21, 1954. She married Wes Korn, who preceded her in death in December 2017.

She is survived by a daughter, Tiffany Kneller, Fort Wayne; stepson, Patrick Anderson, Aurora, Colo.; three grandchildren; sister, Page Himes, Warsaw; brothers, Todd Story, Babson Park, Fla., Marc Story, Grand Saline, Texas, and Douglas Story, Warsaw; and her dog, Laila.

All services are private. McHattonSadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Herbert Lee Bailey Jr.

Herbert “Herb” Lee Bailey Jr., 78, Warsaw, died at 6:37 a.m. March 23, 2023.

He was born Jan. 11, 1945. On June 6, 1964, he married Andrea “Anne” Marie Blackford; she survives.

He is also survived by a son, Herb Bailey, Warsaw; daughter, Heidi Bailey Leininger, Warsaw; four grandchildren; brother, Scott Bailey, Sycamore, Ill.; sister, Penny Bailey Grogan, Orlando, Fla.; a niece; and a nephew.

Herb will be cremated and a memorial service will be celebrated upon Mrs. Bailey’s death as per their wishes. Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw, is in charge of arrangements.

Bill R. Bontrager

Bill R. Bontrager, 79, Avon, died at 9:39 a.m. March 21, 2023.

He was born Nov. 17, 1943. On Feb. 19, 1966, he married Jayne Waldruff; she survives.

Also surviving are his children, Angela Bontrager and Andrea Morgan, both of Avon, Brad Bontrager, Syracuse, and Brent Bontrager, Bristol; 12 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and seven siblings.

Services were held March 25 at St. John of the Cross Episcopal Church, Bristol. Burial was in St. John of the Cross Episcopal Church Cemetery. Rieth Rohrer Ehret Funeral Home, Goshen, was in charge of arrangements.

Evelyn Bryant

Evelyn “Cookie” Bryant, 71, Bradenton, Fla., formerly of Warsaw, died March 14, 2023.

She was born May 9, 1951. On Nov. 10, 1969, she married Billie Bryant; he survives.

Also surviving are her children, Robin Groom, Goshen, and Billy Bryant, Warsaw; three grandchildren; a great-grandson; three stepgrandchildren; brothers, Ronnie Stephens, Warsaw, Don Adkins, Pierceton, Danny Adkins, Hunstville, Ala., Gary Adkins, Milford, Junior Stephens, Warsaw, and Joe Stephens, Claypool; and sisters, Faye Campbell, Debra Thompson, Tena Huffer and Belva Stephens, all of Warsaw, Rita Elder, Pierceton, and Lena Ball, Burket.

Services were held March 24 at Titus Funeral Home, Warsaw. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.

Richard Brundage

Richard “Rick” Morse Brundage, 71, Winona Lake, died at 8:55 a.m. March 17, 2023.

He was born Dec. 12, 1951. On March 24, 1973, he married Susan Marie Humberd; she survives.

He is also survived by a daughter, Noelle Daley, Warsaw; son, Nathan Brundage, Winona Lake; two granddaughters; sister-inlaw, Eva Mae Brundage, Mansfield, Ohio; and his sister, Elaine Price, Mansfield, Ohio.

Services were held March 22 at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.

Janet Elaine Buck

Janet Elaine Buck, 73, Nappanee, died at 8:15 p.m. March 16, 2023.

She was born December 31, 1949. On April 15, 1972, she married David Buck; he survives.

Also surviving are her children, Amy Schmidt, South Bend, Peter Buck, Indianapolis, and Phillip Buck, Plymouth; six grandchildren; sister-in-law, Rachel Pittman, Nappanee; and brother, Larry Pittman, Oswego, Wis.

A celebration of life was held March 22 at Community Gospel Church, Bremen. Burial was in South Union Cemetery. Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee, was in charge of arrangements.

Pastor Danny Cox

Pastor Danny “Dan” Leon Cox, 79, Warsaw, died March 17, 2023.

He was born May 27, 1943.

He is survived by his wife, Brenda Hobbs Cox, Warsaw; sons, Douglas Cox, San Antonio, Texas, and Craig Cox, Warsaw; and five grandchildren.

A graveside service was held March 22 at Johnson Cemetery, Graysville. Military rites were conducted by the Sullivan County Honor Guard.

Arrangements were entrusted Brust Funeral Home, Sullivan, and local arrangements entrusted to Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw.

Letitia Jane Dain

Letitia Jane Randall Dain, 79, died March 17, 2023.

She was born Dec. 20, 1943.

She is survived by her husband, Jerry; daughters, Sarah Bauer, Susan Fisher and Nancy Dain-Cooper; seven grandchildren; and six greatgrandchildren.

A celebration of life will be at a later date.

James W. Davidson

James William Davidson, 80, Granger, died at 7:24 p.m. March 20, 2023.

He was born July 10, 1942.

He is survived by a daughter, Shei-

la Davidson, Bourbon; two grandsons; and brothers, Don Davidson and Jerry Davidson, both of Minooka, Ill. No funeral services are planned at this time. Earl-Grossman Funeral Home, Argos, was in charge of arrangements.

Leland Earl Egolf

Leland “Lee” Earl Egolf, 88, Plymouth, died at 10:29 a.m. March 22, 2023.

He was born May 14, 1934. On July 16, 1972, he married Dolores “Dee” F. Conley; she survives.

Also surviving are sons, Jerry L. Egolf, Nashville, Tenn., and John G. Egolf, Marion; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and brothers, Robert Egolf and Jerry Egolf, both of North Manchester, and Thomas Egolf.

Services were held March 26 at Earl-Grossman Funeral Home, Argos. Odell Herron

Odell Herron, 95, Warsaw, died March 17, 2023.

She was born Aug. 8, 1927. On Dec. 12, 1945, she married Murry Herron Sr., who preceded her in death in 1985.

She is survived by a son, Chaplain Murry Herron Jr., Clearwater Fla.; daughters, Martha Young, Warsaw, and Dorothy Brumfield, Lady Lake, Fla.; 12 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter.

A celebration of life was held March 21 at The Salvation Army Church, Warsaw. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw. McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Renisea Y. Hoffman

Renisea Y. Hoffman, 60, Rome City, died at 3 p.m. March 18, 2023.

She was born Nov. 2, 1962.

She is survived by her husband, Paul N. Hoffman Sr.; her children, Timothy D. Gray Sr., Fort Wayne, Ashleigh Barnett, Indianapolis, Paris Hoffman, Kendallville, and Paul N. Hoffman Jr., Rome City; a niece Ashley R. Warfield, Rome City; eight grandchildren; siblings, Anthony Warfield, John Warfield, Toya Warfield and Towanna (Leroy) Ganaway; and several nieces and nephews. Renisea previously requested that there not be any funeral services made. Her family will honor her wishes.

Legacy Cremation & Remembrance Center has been entrusted with arrangements.

Dawn Renae Jones

Dawn Renae Jones, 53, Kendallville, died at 4:06 p.m. March 16, 2023.

She was born Sept. 4, 1969.

Surviving are her children, Alicia Jones, DeMotte, Loren Jones, Kendallville, and Nicholas Jones, Auburn; her mother, Ida Carley,

Middlebury; and siblings, Mitchell J. Carley, Columbia City, and Faith Lemon, Ligonier.

Services were held March 21 at Stone’s Hill Community Church, Ligonier. Burial was in Sparta Cemetery, Kimmell. Yeager Funeral Home, Ligonier, was in charge of arrangements.

Elizabeth Ann Kelly

Elizabeth Ann Kelly, 88, North Manchester, formerly of Warsaw, died March 21, 2023.

She was born March 14, 1935. On June 2, 1957, she married Mike Kelly. He preceded her in death May 27, 2019.

Surviving are sons, David Kelly, Madison, Ala., and Daniel Kelly, Fort Wayne; daughter, Debra Ohkawa, Monroeville, Pa.; and three grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 1, at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, 225 Argonne Road, Warsaw. A private family burial will take place at Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.

Dennis Owen Kessler

Dennis Owen “Denny” Kessler, 75, rural Leesburg, died at 11:39 p.m. March 15, 2023.

He was born Sept. 20, 1947. On Sept. 1, 1979, he married Deb Mull. She preceded him in death Nov. 22, 2008.

He is survived by a son, Justin Kessler, Syracuse; daughter, Chas Hamilton, Syracuse; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; a brother, Larry Kessler; and three special friends, Pat Buckley, Carol Conley and Larry Watson.

No public services are planned.

Titus Funeral Home of North Webster was in charge of arrangements.

Dolores E. Knouff

Dolores “Pinky” E. Knouff, 97, Warsaw, died March 19, 2023. She was born March 9, 1926.

Surviving are nephews, Rick

D. Cook, North Webster, Roger Knouff, Larwill, Steve Knouff and Bruce Knouff, both of Warsaw; and a niece, Cindy Knouff, Warsaw.

Visitation was held March 23 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw. A graveside service was held March 24 at Salem Cemetery-Wilmot, Cromwell.

Carolyn G. Leichty

Carolyn G. Leichty, 83, Goshen, died March 16, 2023.

She was born July 14, 1939. On Sept. 1, 1957, she married David F. Leichty Jr. He preceded her in death May 18, 2008.

Surviving are daughters, Diane Lewandowski, Bristol, Pamela Allen, Grapevine, Texas, and Linda Snyder, Bremen; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; a sister, Marilyn Zellinger, Tucson, Ariz.; and a brother, Don Yoder, Syracuse.

Services were held March 22 at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen. Burial was in Violett Cemetery, Goshen.

George Leroy Lehman

George Leroy Lehman, 92, Milford, died March 18, 2023l.

He was born Feb. 23, 1931. On Dec. 18, 1953, he married Mary Jaqueline O’Gorman, who preceded him in death in 2008.

Surviving are daughters, LuAnn Cox, Plymouth, Jayne Wolfe, Nappanee, Robin Lehman, Syracuse, and Christina Rogers, New Paris; nine grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; nine great-great-grandchildren; and a bother, Howard Lehman, Fort Myers, Fla.

Services were held March 22 at the Apostolic Christian Church, Milford. Burial followed at Milford Cemetery, where military honors were rendered. Mishler Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Milford, was in charge of arrangements.

Barbara J.

Longcor

Barbara J. Lantzer Longcor, 85, Millersburg, died March 19, 2023. Continued on page 8

OBITUARIES

Continued from page 7

She was born June 3, 1937. On Feb. 25, 1955, she married Devon Lantzer Jr., who preceded her in death June 14, 1997. On June 1, 2002, she married Richard Longcor; he survives.

Also surviving are her children, Brad Lantzer, Goshen, Wanda Woodring, Millersburg, and Kyle Lantzer, Cedar Rapids, Iowa; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; a sister, Carol Kauffman, Millersburg; brothers, Kenneth Hapner, Bozeman, Mont., and Dennis Hapner, Syracuse; stepchildren, Mike Longcor, West Lafayette, Mark Longcor, Elkhart, and Marty Longcor, Camby; three stepgrandchildren; and six stepgreatgrandchildren.

Services were held March 23 at People’s Bible Church, Goshen. Burial was in Baintertown Cemetery, New Paris. Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen, was in charge of arrangements.

Edith Ellen Marvel

Edith Ellen Marvel, 94, Leesburg, died at 6:35 a.m. March 16, 2023.

She was born July 16, 1928. On Feb. 1, 1947, she married Eugene Marvel. He preceded her in death March 13, 2015.

Surviving are daughters, Joyce Garman, Clunette, Judy Nichols and Janet Fifer, both of Warsaw; six grandchildren; and several greatgrandchildren.

Services were held March 21 at Ti-

tus Funeral Home of Warsaw. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.

Arlene Marie Mast

Arlene Marie Mast, 79, Nappanee, formerly of Goshen, died March 20, 2023.

She was born July 2, 1943. On Oct. 23, 1965, she married Lee Mast; he survives.

Also surviving are her children, Angela Knight, Nappanee, and Darin Mast, Elkhart; four grandchildren; sisters, Maurine Mishler, Elkhart, Alvera Clark, Bloomington, and Ruth Miller, Goshen; brother, Ralph Eash, Goshen; and special friends, Sharon Harder, Goshen, and Betty Harman, Jones, Mich.

Services were held March 24 at Nappanee Missionary Church. Burial was in Union Center Cemetery. Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee, was in charge of arrangements.

Grace Irene McDade

Grace Irene McDade, 48, Winona Lake, died March 19, 2023.

She was born Jan. 13, 1975.

She is survived by her stepmother, Marta McDade, Plymouth; daughter, Lacey L. McDade, Syracuse; a grandson; half brothers, Raymond Robinson, North Carolina, and Jean McDade, Warsaw; stepbrother, Jeff Hamman Jr., Plymouth; and several aunts and uncles.

All services are private. McHatton-

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

John McMahan

John McMahan, 67, Syracuse, died March 18, 2023.

He was born Feb. 23, 1956.

He is survived by a daughter, Amy Marshall; stepsons, Chuck Frank, Joe Frank and Mike Frank; stepdaughter, Judy Schimanski; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sisters, Gayle Vuletic, Karen Newman, Heather Guerra and Ruth Bilbro; brothers, Michael McMahan, Kevin McMahan and James McMahan; and his longtime companion, Charlotte Hill.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, June 17, at the Lincoln Center Room 113, 24520 Lincoln St., Highland. Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse, is in charge of arrangements.

Glen A. Miller

Glen A. Miller, 81, Nappanee, died at 12:40 p.m. March 17, 2023.

He was born June 17, 1941. On Oct. 7, 1965, he married Mary S. Mast; she survives.

Also surviving are his children, Mary Edna Miller, LeAnna Miller, Carolyn Kuhns and Henry Miller, all of Nappanee, Delbert Miller, Rexford, Mont., Marietta Borkholder, Mattie Ellen Kuhns and Ervin Miller, all of Bremen, and Marlene Miller, Milford; 21 grandchildren; brother, Amos Mill-

er Jr., Nappanee; sisters, Ada Mae Miller, Bremen, Katie Miller, Bourbon, and Mary Miller, Plymouth; and sister-in-law, Barbara Miller, New Paris.

Services were held March 20 at the David Schwartz residence in Nappanee. Burial was in Graber Cemetery, Nappanee. Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee, was in charge of arrangements.

Donald Newman

Donald “Don” Newman, 60, Akron, died March 21, 2023.

He was born July 16, 1962. He married Tammy Leiter.

Surviving are his children, Shandi Brady, Argos, and Shad Newman, Warsaw; six grandchildren; his inlaws, Ted and Karen Leiter; siblings Cathy McClone, Rob Newman, Dusty Newman, Tim Leiter and Tracey Moore; and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be planned at a later date.

David A. Richards Jr.

David A. Richards Jr., 63, rural Pierceton, died March 19, 2023.

He was born April 27, 1959. On Dec. 18, 1993, he married Raquel Lobato; she survives.

Also surviving are daughters, Brandi Phillips, Columbia City, and Cara Peters, Camden, Ohio; three grandchildren; father, David Richards Sr., North Webster; and siblings, Terry Richards, Donald Richards, Larry Richards and Susan Williams.

Services were held March 25 at Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Warsaw. Burial will occur at a later date at Mock Cemetery.

Wilma Richardson

Wilma Richardson, 84, Claypool, died March 22, 2023.

She was born March 1, 1939. She married William “Bev” Richardson, who preceded her in death.

She is survived by a daughter, Cathy Shepherd, Claypool; sister, Phyllis Beane, Rochester; brother, William “Bub” Yates, Palestine; 17 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; and 20 nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

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

Kevin D. Sahlhoff

Kevin D. Sahlhoff, 63, Bourbon, died March 17, 2023.

He was born July 23, 1959.

He is survived by his mother, Phyllis Sahlhoff, Goshen; daughter, Jessica Heinke, Bremen; sons, Taylor Sahlhoff, Bourbon, and Dane Sahlhoff, Strongville, Ohio; two grandchildren; brothers, Dana Sahlhoff, Henderson, Ky., and Lane Sahlhoff, Bremen; and sisters, Gayle Vautaw, Walton, and Tori Fehr, Goshen.

A celebration of life was held March 25 at Deaton-Clemens Funeral Home, Bourbon.

Hilda Lenora Seybert

Hilda Lenora Seybert, 100, Fort Wayne, a native of Milford, died March 21, 2023.

She was born Feb. 22, 1923. On June 7, 1947, she married Paul Seybert, who preceded her in death in 2010.

She is survived by a daughter, Paula Reckley, Elmhurst, Ill.; a son, David Seybert, Fort Wayne; five grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at a later date for family and friends.

Klaehn, Fahl and Melton Funeral Home, Fort Wayne, was in charge of arrangements.

Mike Smith

Mike Smith, 68, Warsaw, died March 17, 2023.

He was born Oct. 16, 1954.

He is survived by his wife, Brenda Smith, Warsaw; sons, Lance Smith, Martinsburg, W.Va., and Brian Smith, Valparaiso; a granddaughter; brothers, Brett Smith and Terry Smith, both of Warsaw; and several cousins,

nieces and nephews.

The family is grieving privately with no services planned. Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw was in charge of arrangements.

Cynthia Lee Tomblin

Cynthia Lee Tomblin, 57, Dewart Lake, Syracuse, died at 9:06 a.m. March 17, 2023.

She was born Feb. 21, 1966. On July 15, 1984, she married Lindsey Mitchell Tomblin; he survives.

Also surviving are her children, Christopher Mitchell Tomblin and Amber Tomblin; four grandchildren; brothers, Wayne Whitt and Ricky Whitt; sister, Marsha Churchill; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service was held March 21 at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Syracuse. Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse was in charge of arrangements.

Jay Vanlaningham

Jay Allen Vanlaningham, 54, Milford, died March 21, 2023.

He was born Aug. 25, 1968.

He is survived by his father, Ric (Sandi) Vanlaningham; sister, Kelly Warrick, Mesa; half sisters, Naomi Stouder, Syracuse, and Sarah Nace, Warsaw; girlfriend, Petra DeFreeuw. and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse is in charge of arrangements.

A memorial service is in the planning stages for spring; details for the service will be announced on www. titusfuneralhome.com at a later date.

Clara Wehrly

Clara “Faye” Wehrly, 96, Pierceton, died March 18, 2023.

She was born Dec. 4, 1926. On June 3, 1974, she married Forrest Everett Wehrly, who preceded her in death.

Surviving are her children, Brenda Mellott, Warsaw, Lewis Ersland, Indianapolis, and Robert Ersland, Pierceton; and two grandchildren.

A graveside service was held March 21 at Pleasant Grove Cemetery. McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Richard Weirick

Richard “Dick” Weirick, 90, Warsaw, died March 20, 2023.

He was born Oct. 18, 1932. On May 25, 1957, he married Lucille “Lucy” Dirck; she survives.

He is also survived by a daughter, Jackie Whittaker, Warsaw; son, Terry Weirick, Warsaw; a grandson; brother, Jim Weirick, Warsaw; and sisters, Carolyn Blake, Pierceton, and Sandy Hollingworth, Barbee Lake.

Services were held March 24 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw. Interment was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw, with military honors.

Mitchel Jon Winger

Mitchel Jon Winger, 64, Columbia City, formerly of South Whitley, died at 5:55 a.m. March 18, 2023.

He was born Jan. 1, 1959. On Oct. 2, 1982, he married Rebecca King; she survives.

Also surviving are his children, Ryne Winger, Fort Wayne, and Audra Nycz, New York City, N.Y.; three grandchildren; brothers, Michael Winger, Columbia City, and Matthew Winger, Warsaw; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Visitation was held March 21 at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home, Columbia City. A private graveside service was held at South Whitley Cemetery.

Elliott O’Brien Yanez

Elliott O’Brien Yanez, 1, Milford, died March 19, 2023.

He was born Oct. 4, 2021.

He is survived by his parents, Christopher Yanez and Brooke Kelly; siblings, Dominic Yanez and Jax Kelly; paternal grandparents, Ken Mounsey and Dominique Putnam; maternal grandparents, Brian and Shea Kelly; two aunts; two uncles; and several cousins.

Services were held March 26 at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen. Cremation followed the service.

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:

Snow and Sauerteig LLP v. Alysha Bellamy, $903.14; v. Kimberly Bradley, $3,043.05

Allison Prater v. Kayla Hunsberger, $478

RRC Properties LLC v. Joshua Malone, $5,817.23

Stucky Lauer & Young LLP v. Robin A. Rhodes, $324.05; v. April Sylvester, $1,642.67

Warsaw Health System LLC d/b/a Kosciusko Community Hospital v. Karl Wilbert, $1,224.76; v. Lisa Zartman, $1,530.19

Civil Collections

Kosciusko County

The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Chris Kehler presiding:

St. Joe Center Veterinary Hospital Inc. v. Brennaman Enterprises Inc., $6,258.85

CommunityWide Federal Credit Union v. Heather R. Bentley, $13,722.06; v. Barry D. Bruner Jr., $7,906.28; v. Perry O. Chavers Jr., $9,384.90; v. Kristy L. Coplin, $14,099.92; v. William C. Hood, $6,458.69; v. Nolan K. Melchi, $12,413.22; v. Ricardo A. Mendoza, Gilberto Perez, $7,682.23; v. Ricki A. Parson, $9,597.93; v. Ada R. Perry, Marvin W. Perry, $8,736.11; v. Jeffery W. Rhoades, $15,183.22; v. Steven J. Walsh, $9,695.60

Capital One NA v. Jaime L. Brown,

$4,961.83; v. Socorro J. Vellejo, $4,591.40

Midland Credit Management Inc.

v. Susan Curtis, $2,632; v. Trejan N. Krill, $1,919.39

Citibank NA v. Ron W. Davis, $2,264.26

CKS Prime Investments LLC v. Latasha Hunt, $1,115.91

LVNV Funding LLC v. Alyssa

Lacella, $1,364.89

Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC

v. Carol Nine, $834.86

Town of North Webster, Indiana v. Samnang Phat, $22,000

Discover Bank c/o Discover Products Inc. v. Michael S. Sausaman, $35,503.62

SAC Finance Inc. v. Gavin M. Scheffer, $12,347.27 Elkhart County

The following civil collection has been awarded in Elkhart County

Courts:

Citibank, N.A. v. Michael Day, New Paris, $5,665.64

Mortgage Foreclosure Elkhart County

The following mortgage foreclosure has been awarded in Elkhart County

Courts: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. v. Winston Eddie Wakeland Jr., New Paris, $60,148.06

Evictions

The following evictions have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: LPH Realty LLC v. Mary C. Baker, $10,000

Yes Communities, Merrywood v. Kimberly Davis, $6,000; v. Travis Holland, $6,000 Mark Young v. Steffan Sanfilippo, $519.21

Hunter Housing LLC v. Corey Zareski, Simmone Zareski, $1,404.74

Plenaries

The following plenary has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court One, Judge Karin McGrath presiding: Farmers Automobile Insurance Association v. Margarita C. Garcia, $26,791.64

Freedom Rebar and Concrete Supply Inc. v. John Ward Concrete Supply Inc., John Ward, $26,917.46

CTB Inc. v. QC Supply LLC, $1,089,383.75

Superior Court III

The following fines for traffic violations were assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:

No valid driver’s license — Dustin J. McCarty, Etna Green, $160.50; Terri C. Wolfe, Syracuse, $160.50

Driving while suspended — John G. McGuire, Warsaw, $185.50; Steven L. Foreman, Warsaw, $185.50 Improper or no tail or plate light, driving while suspended — Rafael M. Ramirez, Silver Lake, $210.50

Failure of occupant to use safety belt — Andrew J. Chupp, Etna Green, $25

Operating a motor vehicle with a false plate — Yakira M. Brown, Mentone, $160; Clinton A. Carden, Syracuse, $110

Child restraint system violation — Steven L. Mar Hollar, Leesburg, $25

Unlawful possession of tobacco

Kailyn Watkins, Warsaw, $160; Riley A. Gregory, Warsaw, $160

No valid driver’s license, disregarding an official traffic con-

Etna Township Cemetery cleanup time

It’s the time of year again that families are asked to help Etna East Cemetery clean up for the mowing season. A dumpster will be provided from Tuesday, March 28, to Saturday, April 8, in which people can dispose of old flowers, decorations and blankets from loved ones’ grave sites. Families are responsible for the removal of decorations, etc.

Any decorations and grave blankets remaining after April 8 that are not secured on the foundations or headstones will be removed and disposed of. Any faded or torn decorations will also be removed and disposed of regardless of location on the grave site.

If you have items you want to keep, remove them before April 8. New decorations may be placed after May 1. Perennial plantings, trees, shrubs and bushes should not be planted. All grave sites must adhere to cemetery rules, which are posted at the cemetery. For safety and mowing maintenance, shepherd’s hooks, glass decorations or glass vases are not permitted. For the purpose of mowing, grave sites should be completely clear of anything that would hinder the ability of maintenance crews to mow and trim around the foundation. Anything put in the grass and not on the foundation will be disposed of.

Etna East Cemetery is owned and managed by the Etna Township trustee office using tax dollars for maintenance. The only source of income for the cemetery is from the purchase of burial spaces and from donations. Donations can be made out to Etna Township.

The Etna Township trustee’s office says it’s grateful to the friends and family members of those laid to rest in the cemetery for abiding by the cemetery rules, which allows maintenance personnel to care for the cemetery.

Volunteers also are welcome to help maintain the cemetery and keep it looking nice by picking up sticks and debris.

Kosciusko Community YMCA to have 7th annual Good Friday breakfast

The Kosciusko Community YMCA will have its seventh annual Good Friday Breakfast from 7-9 a.m. Friday, April 7.

It’s at Christ’s Covenant Church, 2090 E. Pierceton Road, Winona Lake.

The speaker is former Major League Baseball player Doug Flynn. He was teammates with Pete Rose, Johnny Bench, Ken Griffey, and the rest of the Great 8 from the Cincinnati Reds World Series-winning 1975-76 team.

Flynn will share the excitement of those years, the trauma of baseball trades, the power of a 40-year marriage and the challenges of cancer.

He will also share about the story of his sister’s disappearance, his life-changing Christian journey with “Professional Athletes Outreach” and how he went from an upbringing in the Baptist church to an awesome personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

“You can only trick people into

trol device — Fernando J. Desantos, Warsaw, $185.50

Operating with expired plates

Glenn D. Hefter, Winona Lake, $160

Failure to provide vehicle registration certificate — Kayla E. Wallen, Syracuse, $160

Failure to register, operating a motor vehicle without financial responsibility, no operator’s license in possession, no valid driver’s license — Kathleen L. Wellington, North Webster, $260.50

Marriage Licenses

Kosciusko County

The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court Ann Torpy: Davis-Bontrager

Mark T. Davis, 55, Cromwell, and Billie Rae Bontrager, 48, Cromwell Dailing-Coy

Michelle J. Dailing, 45, Milford, and Michael S. Coy, 45, Milford Swinehart-Miller

Josh Swinehart, 28, Cromwell, and Samantha M. Miller, 26, Cromwell Comadoll-Sheen

Amy M. Comadoll, 51, Warsaw, and Cesar A. Sheen, 55, Warsaw Stevenson-Meyer

Robert H. Stevenson III, 55, Warsaw, and Holly K. Meyer, 48, Warsaw Amos-Jensen

Jacob C. Amos, 35, Claypool, and Courtney Jensen, 29, Claypool Gonzalez-Miller

Valeri R. Gonzalez, 26, Warsaw, and Lavon D. Miller, 30, Warsaw Dean-Smith

Kirby A. Dean, 43, Milford, and Ashley M. Smith, 31, Milford Yutzy-Borkholder

Jalyn D. Yutzy, 23, Bourbon, and Grace E. Borkholder, 20, Nappanee

Marriage Dissolutions

Kosciusko County

The following couples have filed

for marriage dissolutions in the Kosciusko Superior and Circuit

Courts:

Pequignot — Brandon Pequignot, Warsaw, and Heather Clemons Pequignot, Warsaw. They were married Dec. 15, 2019, and separated March 1, 2023. Two minor children.

Irvine — Tracy Irvine, Warsaw, and Benjamin Irvine, Warsaw. They were married June 13, 2013, and separated March 14, 2023. No minor children.

Trinko — Brandon Trinko, Warsaw, and Emma Trinko, Elgin, Ill. They were married Aug. 24, 2015, and separated Feb. 11, 2023. Two minor children.

Clay — Kathleen Clay, Warsaw, and Donald L. Clay, Pierceton. They were married June 14, 2017, and separated March 17, 2023. One minor child.

Carvajal-Gonzalez — Saris Y. Carvajal, Columbia City, and Richard Gonzalez, Milford. They were married June 20, 2020; no separation date given. No minor children. Elkhart County

The following couple have filed a marriage dissolution in Elkhart Superior Court: Rohn-Raby — Catherine M. Rohn, Nappanee, and Chad M. Raby, Osceola; with children.

B IRTHS

Mariah M. Ramer

Simon and Pollyanna (Martin) Ramer, Argos, are the parents of a daughter, Mariah M., born at 9:19 p.m. March 18, 2023. She weighed 8 pounds, 8 ounces.

Karsen Noah Eicher

Mervin and Angela Eicher, New Paris, are the parents of a son, Karsen Noah, born at 11:04 a.m. March 22, 2023, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 7 pounds, 12.5 ounces, and was 20 1/2 inches long.

Theodore John Blakeslee

Lucas and Amber (Myers) Blakeslee, Milford, are the parents of a son, Theodore John, born at 2:19 a.m. March 23, 2023. He weighed 7 pounds, 8 ounces.

believing you’re a Christian for so long. Then it becomes real,” said Flynn.

Tickets are on sale for the event now, with those able to be purchased by emailing kbautz@ kcymca.org or clicking the link here for a table of eight or here for individual tickets.

Etna Green Lions hold Easter egg hunt

The Lions Club of Etna Green will hold its annual Easter egg hunt starting at 1 p.m. Saturday,

April 8, at Heritage Park in Etna Green. Prizes will be awarded for each age group.

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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MAINTENANCE COORDINATOR

Position will require: PM’s, fabricating, plumbing and 120V along with 240V electrical.

Pay will be based on experience. Company paid benefits.

SEND RESUME TO: Tamra@warsawblackoxide.com

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405

Wicker Repair C420

CHAIR CANING, rush and splint seats, wicker repair. Quality work. Teresa Dick, 574-457-3566.

TV Satellite C400 BUSINESS

Unlimited wireless 4G LTE or 5G internet. Only $50/month. 15-day trial. No contract. Includes hardware. Fast & reliable. 888-996-6799. https://broadbandq.com

MobileHelp, America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! 1-888-489-3936

HughesNet - Finally, super-fast internet no matter where you live. 25 Mbps just $59.99/mo! Unlimited Data is Here. Stream Video. Bundle TV & Internet. Free Installation. Call 866-499-0141

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable pricesNo payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 855-761-1725

Wesley Financial Group, LLC

Timeshare Cancellation Experts Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971

Inflation is at 40 year highs. Interest rates are way up. Credit Cards. Medical Bills. Car Loans. Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call National Debt Relief to find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! Free quote: 1-877-592-3616

Switch and save up to $250/yr on talk, text & data. No contract or hidden fees. Unlimited talk & text with flexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. Limited time get $50 off any new account. Use code GIFT50. 1-855-903-3048

TRANSFER

FILM Or Old VHS

To DVD

D

EMPLOYMENT

Skilled Employment E070

HOME HELPER WANTEDSYRACUSE. Seeking a Live-in Helper for older parents - medical professional preferred (CNA or LPN). RETIRED? U could be the perfect fit - 24/7 care needed. Lake access and lodging provided PLUS reasonable compensation. If interested, please call or email a resume with references. 309-336-1340/camav8r@gmail.com

SR. I DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER Zimmer, Inc. (Warsaw, IN): The Sr. I Development Engineer will stay current with and understand relevant arthroplasty product intended use, clinical procedures, and related regulations and standards; identify user needs through engagement with product users (often Orthopedic Surgeons) and observation of similar device usage. Requires 3 years of experience in position offered or related position. Apply via website: http://www.zimmer.com/careers.html. No calls. Reference Job #: SA31423

Work Wanted E080

HONEY DO HANDYMAN & RENO. We do it all - remodels, repairs, scrap removal, lawn care and all your general home needs. Give Brad or Jessica a call at 574-253-5462, we would love to be able to help.

FARM

Miscellaneous Farm G070

FOR SALE: Butternuts in the shell. $5 per pound. 574-453-1430

FISH FOR STOCKING: Most ponds and lakes. Laggis Fish Farm, 269-628-2056 days or 269-624-6215 days.

MERCHANDISE

Health Aids P140

FOR SALE: Electric Jazzy Passport wheelchair and charger. Used three times. $900. Call 574-267-6803.

Attention oxygen therapy users! Inogen

One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. Free info kit. Call 877-929-9587

Health/Fitness P150

VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00. 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-445-5928 Hablamos Español

Misc. Merchandise P200

!!OLD GUITARS WANTED!! GIBSON, FENDER, MARTIN, etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. TOP DOLLAR PAID. CALL TOLL FREE 1-866-433-8277

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator $0

Down + Low Monthly Pmt Request a free Quote. Call before the next power outage: 1-855-948-6176

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-417-1306

The Generac PWRcell solar plus battery storage system. Save money, reduce reliance on grid, prepare for outages & power your home. Full installation services. $0 down financing option. Request free no obligation quote. 1-877-539-0299

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936

Want To Buy P280

Handyman Service

Do you have an odd job that you just don’t have energy or time to complete?

Remodeling, New Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Etc.

Call LT Consultants, LLC Today

574-538-1492

HELPING YOU ACHIEVE YOUR COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL MAINTENANCE GOALS

NOW BUYING

LH Investment Group, LLC is now buying real estate, whole estates, gun collections, toy collections. Do you have a family member with lots of “Treasures” and need someone to help get rid of them?

Call LH Investment Group, LLC 574-538-1492

PETS

Dogs/Cats/Pets Q010

AKC LAB PUPPIES. Black and chocolate, 10 weeks old, ready to go. Had shots and wormed. Make good family pets. $200. 260-463-3344, ext. 2.

Pet Services Q020

Are you a pet owner? Do you want to get up to 100% back on vet bills? Physicians Mutual Insurance Company has pet coverage that can help! Call 1-844-774-0206 to get a free quote or visit insurebarkmeow.com/ads

REAL ESTATE SALES

Condominiums S020

BEAUTIFUL CONDO FOR SALE. Adult community in Warsaw. Awesome location. Call Tony, 352-250-0358.

Houses For Sale S040

THREE-ACRE HOME in Etna Green for sale. House, barn and shop. Call for more information. Larry Hochstetler, 7909 W. 750 N., Etna Green, IN, 46524. 574-646-2323

Jackson Ridge School Benefit and Auction

4 p.m. Friday, March 31, at the RMYC building, 24647 CR 44, Nappanee. Miller Auctions.

Fred and Betty Wood Auction

10 a.m. Saturday, April 1, at 4284 E. 50S, Rochester. Tractors, backhoe, tools, log splitter, antiques, guns, toys, Hiawatha scooter and much

more. bidmetzger.com.

Custom Wood Products Auction

10 a.m. Wednesday, April 5, at 19881

CR 146, New Paris. Hahn Auctioneers.

Annual Spring Collector Auction

8:30 a.m. Thursday-Friday, April

13-15, at 72435 SR 15, New Paris. Polk Auction Co.

TRANSPORTATION

Misc. Auto W100

Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. FastFREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

Real Estate Auction

10 a.m. Saturday, April 15, at 4404

E. 800S, Columbia City. Jack and Marie Smith Estate. Eleven acres offered in two tracts includes country home, outbuildings and woods; also tractors, equipment, household items, antiques. For more information contact auction manager Jim Bayman, (260) 580-5473. Metzgerauction.com.

Parkview Health receives OB-GYN program accreditation

Parkview Health has received accreditation for its fifth graduate medical education program, as well as additional state grants to support the training of resident physicians.

The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education has awarded initial accreditation for Parkview’s new OB-GYN program, which is slated to begin in the summer of 2024. The four-year training program will accept five resident physicians per year, for a total of 20 resident physicians at full capacity.

Parkview’s is the third OBGYN residency program in Indiana and the first outside of Indianapolis.

While at Parkview, resident physicians will learn from faculty in multiple OB-GYN specialties, including hospital medicine, maternal fetal medicine, urogynecology and gynecologic oncology.

In addition to caring for patients at Parkview hospitals, the resident physicians will provide outpatient care in the OB-GYN residency clinic, 1818 Carew St., near Parkview Hospital Randallia. Patrick Woodman, DO, is serving as the OB-GYN program director.

Parkview now has five ACG-

ME-accredited graduate medical education programs: internal medicine, general surgery, transitional year, physical medicine and rehabilitation and OB-GYN.

Internal medicine and general surgery welcomed the first resident physicians in the summer of 2022, and the transitional year program will begin this summer. The OB-GYN program will start in 2024, while physical medicine and rehabilitation is slated to begin in 2025.

“We are proud to grow Parkview’s graduate medical education program to help attract, train and retain more physicians in our region,” said Ray Dusman, MD, president, physician and clinical enterprise, Parkview Health.

“OB-GYN, our newest program to receive accreditation, is one of the most in-demand physician specialties in Indiana. This residency will help expand access to comprehensive obstetric and gynecological care, meeting a critical need in our communities.”

Parkview has also received additional grants from the Indiana Graduate Medical Education Board. The board recently awarded approximately $3 million in extension grants for

Parkview’s internal medicine and general surgery programs. Extension grants are designed to support new graduate medical education programs until the programs reach maturity.

Parkview had already received $1.5 million in grants from the Indiana Graduate Medical Education Board. The internal medicine, general surgery and OB-GYN programs previously received $500,000 each in development grants, which are used to support the initial creation and development of graduate medical education programs in Indiana.

According to the Indiana Graduate Medical Education Board, continued investment in the state’s physician pipeline is critical to meeting increasing demand, especially in rural and underserved areas, and for improving health outcomes and quality of life for all Hoosiers.

Residency programs also play a role in economic development –the board projects the statewide economic impact of current and planned medical resident programs will reach $332 million by 2025.

For more information on the Parkview Health Graduate Medical Education program, visit parkview.com/GME.

Visitor’s center to open in North Webster

During the North WebsterTippecanoe Township annual banquet, it was announced the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce plans to renovate the old concession stand area at the North Webster Community Center to open a new visitor’s center.

This coincides with the chamber moving its office from the Tippecanoe Township building on South Moron Street to the NWCC as a result of the township selling that property to the North Webster Church of God.

“With the sale of the township building the chamber had to find a new office location,” said Chamber President Emily Shipley. “Over a period of a few months, starting last summer, we started to look at options around North Webster. A priority was finding a space where we could have our monthly meetings. Since we are all volunteers and wouldn’t be able to staff an office, spending thousands on rent for a storefront didn’t make sense. We needed to find a location where we could have a monthly meeting, have storage for our event supplies and decorations, as well as host our telephone answering service.

Scott Kuhn, Karen White and I toured a couple of places in town

and took photos to take back to the board for a vote.

“When Scott and I toured the community center with Emily Worrell, she gave us a couple of options for space. The spaces she offered us were beautiful, however, none of them made sense to have an office we couldn’t staff. If we couldn’t staff, it didn’t make sense to pay rent. While touring we walked past the old concession stand. She offered us this space because of the cabinetry, which would be able to store some of our supplies. With the rental of this space we would have the use of a room to hold our monthly board meeting which was the priority, as well as WiFi and a phone extension.

“After some careful thought, Scott and I came up with the idea to rent this space and utilize all the benefits of being a tenant at the community center, but we also came up with a plan to present to the board of creating this space to be a visitor’s center.

“The concessions stand is next to the building entrance on SR 13. Those doors will not be open on a daily basis, but will be during big events at the NWCC and during community events.”

The visitor’s center will not be staffed during most times.

“There may be days that having a volunteer would be ideal,” said Shipley. “For now, the visitor center will be used as a cen-

tral location to find brochures, lake maps, a calendar of events, our community guide and necessary information for residents, potential residents and visitors to glean information. Ideas are limitless and we are encouraging our members to have input.”

The chamber will display its “Member of the Month” photos and historical community photos at the visitors center. It also will have a suggestion box, as they are always looking for suggestions on events and activities that will benefit the community. This will be allow people to provide anonymous suggestions.

“Directing people to the Visitor Center will be through our social media accounts and advertising,” Shipley said. “All of our members will be encouraged to direct people there for community information.”

Construction on the new space started earlier this week. Next week they will work on painting the walls and gathering information to be displayed. Renovations should be completed by the end of the month.

“Funding for this project is minimal because we have awesome volunteers, such as Chris Trowbridge, Paula Miller, Scott Kuhn and myself who are giving their time and talent,” Shipley concluded. “The paint and supplies will be purchased by the chamber.”

Grace College Chemistry Graduate serves with Mercy Ships before medical school

Grace College graduate and Warsaw native Austin Bowell is spending the next four months aboard Mercy Ships, a Christcentered nonprofit organization that provides free healthcare around the world with its hospital ships.

A 2022 chemistry and biology graduate, Bowell is seeking to serve and gain cross-cultural healthcare experience before attending medical school this fall.

“Mercy Ships brings people together from around the world,” Bowell said. “Volunteers from more than 60 nations are brought together for one purpose—to reflect the heart of Christ by providing healthcare for people in desperate need.”

At the end of her college ca-

reer, Bowell knew she wanted to pursue short-term missionary work before moving on to medical school. When one of her previous teachers told Bowell about Mercy Ships, she knew immediately it would be a good fit. Within a few days of searching its website, a position opened up for a crew clinic COVID-19 assistant.

“The volunteer description was a literal copy of my résumé,” Bowell said. “It was as if the position was written for me. I was in awe. God orchestrated His plan, in His timing.”

On the last day of her undergraduate classes, Bowell received an offer letter to serve with Mercy Ships from January to July. Weeks later, she arrived at the Global Mercy Ship. Her job was

to prepare the ship for the organization’s first field service in Senegal. Now, she is on her first sea voyage aboard the Africa Mercy Ship, sailing to South Africa.

In her role, Bowell conducts COVID-19 testing, oversees contact tracing and ensures the crew is up-to-date on COVID-19 boosters. She also provides first aid in the clinic, and she serves on the EMT team and the safety committee.

Now a few months into her role, Bowell knows this is where she was meant to be. Mercy Ships’ faith-based mission puts into action her desire to bring people hope in the name of Jesus.

“When Mercy Ships’ volunteers give free medical care to patients,

it is a life-saving gift,” Bowell said. “It reflects how God gave us the eternal, life-saving gift of his Son that can never be repaid.

I feel privileged to be a part of Mercy Ships’ mission and team.”

Bowell has enjoyed many unique experiences thus far, like setting up a clinic in a family cabin on the African Mercy Ship due to hospital renovations.

“I had no idea I would be building a clinic when I arrived at Mercy Ships, but it was so rewarding to watch it come together and to now see patients in the clinic we put together ourselves,” she said.

As Bowell looks ahead to medical school in August, she continues to learn how she can bring her love for Christ into future

jobs and throughout medical school. She is grateful to her professors at Grace College for helping her believe that her worth comes from being made in the image of God.

“It has been easy to go to bed and measure my worth based on what I did well or what mistakes I made throughout the day,” Bowell said. “However, I have been continually reminded that my worth is not in my work but in my identity as a child of God.”

Catholic Charities receives grant from KCCF fund

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend recently received a $9,517 grant from the Mary Louise Lowe Charitable Fund, a component fund of the Kosciusko County Community Foundation.

The grant will be used to support CCFWSB’s more than 20 programs in the 14 counties of northeast Indiana. Focused in the four core areas of stability, prolife, migration and counseling services, CCFWSB is committed to helping those in need become financially, materially and emotionally self-sufficient.

The Mary Louise Lowe Charitable Fund was created by the late Lowe to support charitable and religious organizations that were important to her.

“We are very grateful to the Mary Louise Lowe Charitable Fund of the Kosciusko County Community Foundation for their continued support,” said CCFWSB CEO Dan Florin. “Because of their commitment to our mission, more people in northeast Indiana can receive the hand up they need.”

R esource eport

Wednesday, March 29, 2023

KOSCIUSKO COUNTY SWCD SUPERVISORS

David Ransbottom— Chairman

Jamie Scott — Vice Chairman

Ryan Martin — Secretary/Treasurer

Jewel Wise — Supervisor

Stan Moore — Supervisor

OFFICE STAFF

Amanda Heltzel, Education/Outreach Coordinator

Tashina Lahr-Manifold, Soil Health Specialist

Chad Schotter, NRCS District Conservationist

Melinda Miller, Executive Director

www.kosciuskoswcd.org

Farmer Breakfast 2023

nologies can help farmers control seed depth, fertilize effectively and reduce soil compaction, among other benefits.

After a long hiatus, our annual Farmer Breakfast, an educational event for area ag professionals, returned on Feb. 16.

About 70 people gathered at Clunette Elevator in Leesburg to enjoy breakfast and learn how practices like cover crops, no-till planting and nutrient management can improve soil health and productivity.

Speakers included Barry Fisher (Fisher Soil Health, LLC), Chad Schotter (Natural Resources Conservation Service) and Russell Anderson (Anderson Farms).

Fisher kicked off the event. “Soil health is all about soil function that increases resilience,” he said.

Healthy soil is a living ecosystem that includes many different nutrients and microorganisms. While some farming strategies capitalize on that living ecosystem, Fisher explained, others strategies tend to destroy it. Practices like cover crops and no-till planting can help protect soil structure, conserve nutrients and minimize erosion. They also promote moisture and temperature control, protecting against extreme weather conditions like heavy spring rains and midsummer drought.

Fisher spoke about the challenging decisions farmers face every season, including which equipment to invest in. Using a sixrow planter custom built by Clunette Elevator, he showed attendees how modern tech-

“The bottom line? Know your soil,” said Fisher, encouraging farmers to learn which equipment and strategies work best for their operation’s needs and goals.

Chad Schotter, Kosciusko County NRCS district conservationist, followed with a rainfall simulator demonstration. The simulator showed how heavy rainfall interacts with different ground surfaces, including asphalt and soil samples containing grass, tilled soil and untilled soil planted with cover crops. Participants watched as the “rain” drained off each surface, filling their respective containers with different amounts of water and, in some cases, sediment.

“Biology helps create stability in the soil,” explained Schotter. “You can ruin soil much quicker than you can build it.” Practices like cover cropping and no-till planting leave living roots intact, promoting moisture infiltration and protecting against runoff and nutrient loss.

Finally, local farmer Russell Anderson spoke about his experience with various conservation farming techniques. Anderson farms close to 2,000 acres of corn and soybeans in Kosciusko, Elkhart and Noble counties every year.

His operation has always been “conservation-minded,” he explained, including notill planting for almost 30 years. But that effort has taken a great deal of trial, error

and learning.

“I’ve made a lot of mistakes,” said Anderson. He recalled one season when he tried to create the right conditions for spring planting, only to realize he had overworked the ground and weakened his soil structure.

Like his colleagues in the room, Anderson researches and consults with other experts in the field, weighing the needs of his operation against the potential risks and rewards of different farming strategies.

“We don’t farm in a classroom or in theory. We farm in the real world. Everything we do has to have a reason,” says Anderson. “It’s about more than conservation. It’s about soil health and regeneration.”

In the end, after years of pursuing healthy soil, Anderson believes his efforts have led to greater success and resilience for his family’s farm.

This event was co-hosted by Kosciusko Soil and Water Conservation District, The Watershed Foundation, Indiana Conservation Cropping Systems Initiative and the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation. Crossroads Bank and Ferguson Farms provided generous sponsorship and Clunette Elevator graciously hosted.

Thanks to everyone who made the 2023 Farmer Breakfast such a success, and thanks to all who attended — we look forward to seeing you next year.

2023 Kosciusko SWCD tree sales

Modern gardening

On Feb. 23, the Kosciusko County Soil and Water Conservation District and the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams partnered to host “Modern Gardening: Covers, Companions & Flips.”

This workshop introduced the benefits that cover crops, companion crops and flips can have for farmers and urban and rural gardeners.

Terri Theisen, an expert in local food systems, kicked the meeting off with an overview of companion crops, pest management, water usage and crop placement. These techniques benefit the successful growth of future crops and help prevent soil erosion, improve soil health and even increase profitability.

The 30 attendees also got to hear from Jeff and Zach Hawkins, who run J.L. Hawkins Family Farm LP located outside of North Manchester. They use the health and wholeness of soils, waters, plants, animals and people as the standard by which they farm.

Jeff gave a brief introduction to their farm and its history. Zach then covered the “How To” of cover crops, termination, tools and flipping of beds. Using cover crops, minimal tillage and animal incorporation, this farm has increased its soil health and has become “customer certified.”

Guests had the opportunity to ask questions and also received instructional books, vegetable and herb seeds and handouts to take home.

This event was an overwhelming suc-

Free seed for wildlife food plots

It is nearly that time of year again. Kosciusko County SWCD will be providing free seed for food plots.

This seed is provided to landowners who would like to plant the seed as a food source for wildlife during the fall and winter months, when most food supplies are limited.

The district will have corn, soybean, sorghum and sunflower seed again this year, with some possible seed mixes. Some limits are placed on quantities to allow more landowners the opportunity to plant this food source. Seed will be available mid-May and can be picked up at the SWCD office at 217 E. Bell Drive, Warsaw (across from ZimmerBiomet).

To be notified when food plot seed is available, please send an email to SWCD at kosciuskoswcd@gmail.com and notification will be sent when seed is ready. For general information on food plot seed, call the SWCD office at (574) 267-7445, ext. 3.

A food plot is an annual or perennial planting of grain, legumes and/or forbs. It is planted in the spring and left standing through the fall and winter for wildlife. A food plot offers wildlife a place to forage for food in late fall, winter and early spring, as food sources become scarce.

To be effective, a food plot should be at least 1,000 square feet. No more than 1/4 to 1/2 acre of food plot is usually needed for each 20 acres of land. If the food plot is expected to provide winter cover, then plots of an acre or more are necessary.

Food plots are usually planted in long strips adjacent to good winter and/or escape cover such as a brushy fence row, field border, windbreak, woodland edge or wetland. Strip width can vary, but the wider the strips, the more food and cover created for wildlife. The closer the food plot is to good dense cover, the

more use it will have by wildlife. Common Food Plot Errors

• More is better. Exceeding the seeding, lime or fertilizer recommendation is a waste of both time and money.

• Not fertilizing. Most crops need applications of fertilizer to help them grow and achieve maximum productivity.

• Using old seed. Seed that is old may not have been properly stored and handled.

• Planting in shaded areas. Plants grown for agricultural purposes require sunlight for energy and growth. Avoid placing these seeds in shaded areas such as woods.

• Not planting enough acres. Food plots that are too small are ineffective.

• Planting too late for seed maturity. All crops require a certain number of days to grow and mature. If planted too late, they will not mature and will fail to provide food to wildlife.

Conservation calendar

cess and we hope to inspire gardeners and urban farmers to incorporate soil health practices into their garden planning.

To get your garden’s soil sampled or to receive some of the educational materials from this event, please contact the Kosciusko County Soil & Water Conservation District at kosciuskoswcd@gmail.com.

SWCD board meetings — 7 p.m. April 4, 7 p.m. May 4, 7:30 p.m. June 6, USDA Service Center, 217 E. Bell Drive, Warsaw. SWCD board meetings are open to the public.

March 31 — Deadline for SWCD tree orders.

April 7 — County offices closed for Good Friday observances.

April 15 — SWCD tree order pickup, 8 a.m. to noon.

April 22 — Earth Day. Enjoy the outdoors.

April 22 — Weed Wrangle, 10 a.m. to noon, Oppenheim Woods, 7127 N. Kalorama Road, Leesburg.

April 28 — Arbor Day. Plant a tree.

May 6 — Earth Day Festival, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., WACF Education Center, 11586 SR 13, Syracuse.

May 2 — County offices closed for primary election day.

May 29 — County offices closed for Memorial Day.

Highlighted species

Why Native Species?

You don’t have to be an expert to grow them!

• Native plants are adapted to their local environment, which means they are generally easier to grow and are adept to handling natural weather changes. Because of their natural resilience their maintenance is minimal.

They save you money!

• Native plants require much less watering, fertilizer, and pesticides. Natives can be found in nature everywhere; this means that our environment already has the required nutrients needed to sustain a healthy plant.

They support a healthy environment!

• Native plants and trees play a vital role is sustaining our native wildlife. Native plants provide the proper nutrition and functions to promote a healthy ecosystem.

SWCD 2023 tree sale

The 2023 tree sale is here! We’ve added many new native tree species to the sale, here are some fun facts about a few of the new species we will have available.

Kentucky Coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus)

The Kentucky Coffeetree numbers are declining rapidly due to overharvesting. It has very little disease or insect problems therefore is a great alternative to Ash or Elm trees. This tree is also tolerant to a wide range of conditions such as drought and urban areas. The Native Americans used Kentucky Coffeetree for many medicinal purposes like using the flesh of the tree to treat insanity. Parts of this native plant are poisonous, because of this, animals should not be allowed to graze near the Kentucky Coffeetree. Despite this, they make great shade trees, and their native roots promote healthy soils. The Kentucky Coffee tree is great for large areas such as parks, golf courses, and fields with minimal animal traffic.

American Basswood (Tilia americana)

Also known as the honey-tree, American Basswood is a species that attracts diverse wildlife. In fact, much of this tree is edible, young basswood leaves can be used in salads and the flower blossoms can be dried and used in tea. Pollinators such as moths and honeybees love the cream-colored flowers of a mature Basswood. This tree is great for wildlife because its many edible qualities. This tree can grow to be 60-80’ tall and its dense leaf coverage makes it a great shade tree. This tree prefers finer textured soils and is often found growing in sandy or silt loam soils but can also grow on coarse soils that are well drained.

Black

Black Cherry trees have long been prized for their attractive fall foliage, lace-like blossoms, and fruit. They were used by Native Americans in several ways; the Potawatomi used the fruit from the Black Cherry to make spirits and the Chippewa used the twigs to make beverages. Although the products from the Black Cherry tree are not used to the same extent today, birds and insects thrive off their fruits and flowers. To produce the most flowers and fruits, this tree needs full sun. Their beautiful white spring flowers and yellow fall leaves compliment any Indiana landscape.

Advance conservation by sharing your time and talents: Volunteer today

The support of volunteers plays a large role in making our conservation programs successful.

You can help us advance conservation efforts while serving your community. We rely on our volunteers to help with many fun and rewarding programs the district offers.

If you have an interest in conservation, youth education, soil health, water quality, outdoor recreation or nature, then we have volunteer opportunities for you. Our volunteers can be found leading nature activities for school field trips, sampling soil for local gardeners, rafting on the river with students, lending a hand in the office and doing so much more.

We are looking for volunteers for upcoming spring programs, including school field trips, tree sales, community festivals and more. We welcome volunteers of all skill levels and only ask for you to share your time and bring your enthusiasm.

If you are interested in volunteering with the Kosciusko Soil and Water Conservation District, please reach out to our outreach and education coordinator, Amanda, at kosciuskoswcd@gmail.com or (574) 267-7445, ext. 3.

Cherry (Prunus serotina)