the Paper - March 6, 2024

PATRIOTIC PERFORMANCE — Shown are members of the string section as they perform during Salute to America, the annual patriotic concert the Symphony of the Lakes per-

forms at the Miller Sunset Pavilion in Winona Lake. Photo provided by Terry White.

ABOVE PHOTO: PRINCIPAL CONDUCTOR — Jason Thompson has served as principal conductor and artistic director of the Symphony of the Lakes since 2021. Photo provided by Jason Thompson.

RIGHT PHOTO: FRENCH HORNS — Shown are some of the French horn players at the Salute to America concert put on by the Symphony of the Lakes. The symphony performs several times a year, and its next concert is set for April 27. Photo provided by Terry White.

Know Y our n eighbor

Muraski finds passion in literature

By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer

Although DeeAnna Muraski was born and raised in California, she quickly found her niche in Warsaw when she moved here. Now, she has been in the area for over 20 years.

Muraski has always had her nose in a book, her favorite being “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexander Dumas.

“I have been known to read two or three books simultaneously,” Muraski exclaimed. “I am a voracious reader and generally do not lapse from reading a book.” She found her passion in the workplace when she was hired as the executive director of Operation Read, a literacy

social services organization that provide books and tutoring to people in financial need. Operation Read serves all of Kosciusko County.

“I started tutoring 20 years ago and helped one of the students win an essay contest and was hooked,” Muraski explained. “My mom taught me to help people in need and to seek where I can help in any situation.”

Operation Read covers the entire life cycle, from infancy to adulthood. Operation Read offers different programs for different age groups. Baby’s First Library provides a baby’s first book, bookmark and information of the importance of reading to your child.

“Being able to help parents of young children understand the importance of literacy is critical to our future economy,” Muraski explained. “If a person cannot read it is extremely limiting to their life and our communities.”

Read to Grow provides books to babies until age 5. A child enrolled in the Read to Grow program will a accrue a library of 60 books before they graduate the program.

Reading While You Wait provides gently-used books throughout the community in

places where people might have time to read to their child while they are waiting, like at a local laundromat.

Book Boogie is a reading incentive program for elementary school children aged kindergarten to fifth grade.

“Last year, the children at North Webster Elementary School read over half a million pages,” Muraski bragged. “Doing it at a school helps with accountability and encourages the students to use the school library.”

Adult tutoring provides reading tutoring to adults aged 18 to 100 who need assistance.

“We have two students who are 70 years old and learning how to read,” Muraski mentioned.

The Memory Puzzle Book program supplies crossword and other puzzle books to senior citizens in the community to keep their minds sharp.

“Did you know 86% of juvenile offenders struggle with reading?” Muraski asked. “If a person cannot read, they will struggle with math, English and all other subjects. Think of all the things you read every day: restaurant menus, traffic signs, office building signs, newspapers, stock prices, the weather, text messages, gas pump instructions, grocery store products and prices, shampoo or conditioner bottles, general instruction manuals, etc. Being able to read opens a new world

to you.”

To learn more about Operation Read, visit operationreadusa.org or follow the organization on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Christ offering ‘Without a Will’

Do you know what a will is? Do you have one created? It’s never too early to have one in place. This program will help you prepare to make a will and discuss what to include in it.

Join this free educational program, presented by Emily Christ, Purdue University Extension educator in health and human sciences in Elkhart County. This program is being offered at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 19, at the Elkhart County Library, Cleveland Branch, 53715 CR 1, Elkhart. The program will last about one hour.

If you would like to attend the program, register by calling Jenn at (574) 533-0554 or email fink24@purdue.edu. 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 Christ at (574) 533-0554 by Tuesday, March 5.

OPERATION READ — DeeAnna Muraski has always been passionate about literature. She found her dream job when she was hired as executive director of Operation Read. Photo provided by DeeAnna Muraski.

Art in America: Precisionism

By DEEANNA MURASKI, and DARLA MCCAMMON Guest Writers

As we journey together though this series on Art in America, we are continuing this week to observe an artist who wove cultural events with art to tell a story.

Our artist, Charles Sheeler, was born in Pennsylvania in 1883. In the early 1900s, he attended the School of Industrial Art and Academy of Fine Arts, both located in Pennsylvania.

Like so many of our artists in this series, Sheeler felt it necessary to travel to Paris, the esteemed art mecca at the time. With so many interesting things to see, Sheeler became enamored with the camera. At this time, the camera was becoming more accessible and affordable.

He saw photography as a way to capture a scene he liked, which he could replicate later on canvas.

While many American artists returning to America from the

Parisian art colonies wanted to change America to reflect Paris, Sheeler felt opposite. He wanted to showcase America. He affected this by creating what is called Precisionism.

This represented a great faith in the technology and industry of America. Keep in mind as we go through our Art in America series, we are canvasing the events happening during this time. Thus, there is no doubt that Sheeler was influenced by World War I (1914-1918) and the after effects.

This time was not historically called an industrial revolution (the second industrial revolution was after the Civil War), but the technological efficiencies created by industry impacted the economy.

One such notable place was with Henry Ford’s manufacturing facilities. The highly innovative work spaces, efficient manufacturing lines, and brilliant vehicle designs were coveted across the world. Thus, when Ford invited photographer and

artist Sheeler to capture his new “River Rouge” state-of-theart factory in Dearborn, Mich., it was a match made in heaven.

The factory employed an astounding 75,000 workers and as a comparison the current population of Kosciusko County is 80,000. The factory was part of the Machine Age (1918-1941) in America, which paired perfectly with Sheeler’s’ Precisionism. Precisionism strove to create an American identity wholly separated from Europe. To showcase the beauty of our architecture, design, industry and who better to do it than Sheeler.

Sheeler’s paintings depict the precision machining he was capturing with sharp-exacting angles, perfect perspective, shading that is highlighted instead of hidden, and order and balance. These huge goliath machines were literally the backbones of America. The true heroes, which were not shown but only alluded to in the paintings, were and are the American workers.

Boys and Girls Club of Elkhart County announces Youth of the Year

Boys and Girls Clubs of Elkhart County has announced its candidates for Boys and Girls Club of America’s Youth of the Year.

They are: Elkhart Club, Justice Thompson; Goshen Club, Kristina Petkova; Middlebury Club, Andrew Deal; Nappanee Club, Matthew Lecount.

On Feb. 28, Boys and Girls Clubs of Elkhart County will hold the Elkhart County Youth of the Year Competition at the Boys and Girls Club cabin, 912 Middlebury St., Goshen. The winner will go on to compete at the state level and from there, they will compete for the title of Boys and Girls Clubs of America Youth of the Year.

A Youth of the Year candidate embodies excellence in Boys and Girls Clubs of America’s three priority outcome areas of academic success, good character and citizenship and healthy lifestyles. Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor bestowed upon club members. The National Youth of the Year serves as a role model and spokesperson for America’s youth. They educate millions of Americans about the power of the club experience and elevate the national focus on key

issues facing children and teens.

They must be between 14-18, as of Jan. 31, 2024.

Being named the YOY is one of the most distinguished awards given within a club to its members.

Each clubhouse identifies teen members to participate in the program. Clubs begin in the fall to work with their candidates on

their resumes, essays, cover letters, letters of recommendation and speech.

Candidates competing for the honor write several essays, participate in interviews with judges, prepare and deliver speeches, develop a resume of their activities and solicit letters of recommendation about their leadership and potential.

AU CAFE BY STANTON MCDONALD-WRIGHT — Stanton McDonald-Wright was the creator of synchromism, which uses abstract painting and non-objective painting in a musical sense. Photo provided by Darla McCammon.

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

-o-

Rehoming cats

Good neighbors: I have two cats named Polly and Poppy. They are 9 years old and need a loving home. Their owners are in declining health and will be moving into a retirement home soon. The cats have always lived inside and could not cope with the outside world. If you can help, please call (574) 8341842 for an appointment to meet them.

New questions

Plastic recycling — Does anyone know where plastic water bottles can be recycled or where to drop them off? Reply through this column.

— A reader

Laying hens — Looking for 12-24 old laying hens. Call (434) 960-2087.

Beehives and equipment — Looking for used bee boxes (deeps and supers), frames and honey spinner. Please contact Wendi at (574) 528-1085.

Porch rockers — Would any good neighbor like to get rid of (or would be willing to sell) two porch rockers with high backs, preferably black but could be white. It doesn’t have to be painted, it could also be the wooden look. Call (574) 773-7736, ext. 1.

Glass jugs with lids — I need half-gallon glass jugs with lids. Call (574) 862-3909.

‘Balto’ — Would anyone have a video of the dog “Balto?” Call (574) 831-2336.

Seeking information — Is there anyone who could drive a carload of packages from Fulton to

Elkhart Civic Theatre announces 2024 scholarships

Elkhart Civic Theatre at the Bristol Opera House is offering two college scholarships to students for the upcoming college term.

The first of these is the Michael Cripe Theatre Scholarship, a $1,000 scholarship to be awarded to a student with plans to go into theatre, dance or technical theatre disciplines.

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The scholarship is given in honor of Michael Cripe, an actor and performer from Elkhart, who was a well-loved Elkhart Civic Theatre participant before he embarked on a career in theatre that took him to Broadway and around the world.

Before his death in 2015, Cripe returned to Elkhart and shared

his experience and talents with ECT once again, performing on the Bristol Opera House stage as well as choreographing and directing many ECT musicals. The scholarship in his name is supported by the Michael Cripe Studio, Elkhart Civic Theatre’s educational program, through the generosity of Michael’s brother, Jeff Cripe, and Label Logic, Inc. In addition, Elkhart Civic Theatre also will be offering the Glenn Gosling Memorial Scholarship, a $500 scholarship for any collegebound student, who has been part of Elkhart Civic Theatre’s youth programs or mainstage productions.

Gosling, who died in 1983, was an actor and member of the ECT Board of Directors, with a strong interest in acting, technical theatre, and management of the theatre building.

All applications must arrive at Elkhart Civic Theatre on or before June 15.  Winners of the scholarship awards will be announced July 26, during the opening night performance of Elkhart Civic Theatre’s summer musical at the Bristol Opera House.

For further information and to download the required application forms, interested students should go to elkhartcivictheatre.org/scholarships.

Letter to the editor

Jackson retiring, supports Scherer for county commissioner

Dear Editor:

After 28 years of serving you as commissioner, I have decided to retire. I love our county and want to help make sure another leader carries on in service to you.

Nate Scherer checks the two main boxes I look for in a government leader. He is a Christian and a proven business leader.

I have always said we need business people to run our government, not politicians. Nate founded, operated and sold a successful manufacturing business.

We welcome readers’ letters.

He has a very flexible job with the company that purchased his business.

Nate is young, has high morals, is accomplished in business and has the time to dedicate to serving you as the northern district commissioner. This is not a common combination to find in a person.

Nate was born and raised in Kosciusko County. He is raising his family here and wants to make it a place where our young people choose to stay and raise

their children.

While I have resisted endorsing candidates in the past, I am publicly endorsing and putting my full support behind Nate Scherer as candidate for northern district commissioner.

To learn more about more about Nate and his campaign, visit www.scherer4kcounty.com or on Facebook at Nathan Scherer for Kosciusko County Commissioner.

Brad

Jackson

Our requirements are as follows: Letters must be written to the editor, not the public. They must be signed with full name in ink. Signatures will be printed on all letters. Letters must include an address and phone number, which will be used for verification, but will not be published. Letters may be emailed to dpatterson@the-papers.com. Again, letters must include an address and phone number. We ask that letters be limited to 400 words. Letters longer than 400 words may be edited for brevity. Writers may be limited to one published letter per month. Readers with lengthy comments should contact an editor about possible guest columns.

Send letters to: ‘the PAPER,’114 W. Market St., Warsaw, IN 46580.

Symphony of the Lakes brings music to the community

By LAUREN ZEUGNER Editor

Have you ever gone to a symphony concert? There’s excitement in the air as you settle into your seat and the orchestra goes through its final fine tuning before the conductor takes center stage, raises his baton and launches the musicians into the first movement of the piece of music on the program.

Kosciusko County has a long history of orchestra, wind and symphony groups performing, from Herbert Petrie, Wagon Wheel’s founder, holding band camps in the 1950s, to Grace College’s Masterworks Festival. Eventually, different groups morphed into what became known as Symphony of the Lakes in 2005.

In 2015, Symphony of the Lakes came under the Wagon Wheel’s umbrella. The symphony was under the direction of Thomas Stirling until his untimely death in 2018. In 2021, Jason Thompson, professor of music at Indiana Wesleyan University, was named principal conductor and artistic director.

Thompson was no stranger to the symphony having been a guest conductor in the past.

The symphony is made up of 65 professional musicians. Terry White, a Wagon Wheel board member, explained there is no place in the county where the entire orchestra fits comfortably for a performance.

“We don’t often have a full orchestra sound,” he said.

While most symphony orchestra’s perform for a season, typically starting in the fall and going through to the spring, the Symphony of the Lakes performs year-round. White said typically the symphony will perform bigger concerts in April and in October, and there’s the Salute to America concert around the Fourth of July and then they do smaller performances usually featuring princi-

pal players from different sections of the orchestra.

For example, at the end of February there was a wind quintet performance and a few months before that there was a string quartet concert.

“It is a remarkably capable and high quality orchestra,” White said.

As artistic director, Thompson explained he looks at the needs of the community and what excites the community when picking music for the orchestra. Deciding what to play is a balancing act of providing great classical orchestra music along with orchestral pops and featuring composers who may be new to audience members.

Noting orchestral music is used in film scores and in video games. Thompson noted, “People are probably hearing more orchestral music than before.” He said the challenge is in encouraging those people to experience the full sound of an orchestra performing.

Many of the professional musicians, who perform with Symphony of the Lakes, also work in other jobs as well as play with other orchestras in the area. When preparing for a concert, Thompson explained the musicians receive their music about a month before a performance. They will then come together as a full orchestra to rehearse one to three times before a concert.

So for the Salute to America Concert, the orchestra rehearses right before the concert. For other performances, rehearsals will be held Thursday and Friday as well as Saturday afternoon before a Saturday night concert.

Before the orchestra even gets to rehearsal, Thompson has to have the entire season programmed about a year in advance. Currently, he’s working on what the orchestra will perform next year.

The Symphony of the Lakes is part of a music coalition, which meets once a month to make sure

everyone is on the same page when it comes to upcoming performances in the arts. Other members of the coalition include the Warsaw Community High School PAC, the Choral Arts Society and Grace College.

Since the symphony is under the Wagon Wheel umbrella, Thompson has also worked to collaborate with other parts of Wagon Wheel to bring in audience members. As an example, the

symphony’s next performance will be “Hobbits and Fairies,” which will feature Mendelssohn”s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” with scenes from Shakespeare’s play, directed by Kira Lace Hawkins, as well as music by composer Howard Shore from “Lord of the Rings Trilogy.” The performance is at 7 p.m. April 27, at the Wagon Wheel Theatre. Tickets are $20.

Both White and Thompson noted along with more audience

members, the symphony needs donors, both individual and corporate.

“Professional musicians work very hard. We try to pay them as well as possible. Ticket sales are a mere fraction of that it costs to put on a performance,” Thompson said.

For more information on making a donation or becoming a donor, visit wagonwheelcenter.org or call (574) 267-8041.

Deadline for Extension Homemakers Scholarships extended until March 31

The Kosciusko County Extension Homemakers has extended the deadline for the scholarships it is offering from March 15 to now March 31 because of the difficulties occurring in receiving the required information from the government.

Any high school/college student, who is a resident of Kosciusko County or a present or past member of a Kosciusko County Purdue Extension organization, such as 4-H, Master Gardeners or Extension Homemakers, any age, single or married may apply.

The Kosciusko County Extension Homemakers will award two, $1,000 scholarships to a college or university student including those seeking a two-year associate’s degree. One $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to a student seeking a certificate in a career and technical program.

The State Extension Home-

makers Association also offers the following: The Ruth B. Sayre Scholarship and The Steps to Success Scholarship.

Applications for the above scholarships can be found by contacting a high school counselor or the Kosciusko County Extension office by visiting extension.purdue.edu/county/Kosciusko, select Kosciusko County 4-H, select 4-H scholarship information, and se-

lect Kosciusko County Extension Homemakers Scholarship Application. You also can contact the extension office @graff8purdue. edu.

A career advancement scholarship is available to an Extension Homemaker’s Club member, who is 25 years old or older; this application can be found on the Indiana Extension Homemaker’s website, ieha-families.org.

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Wa-Nee Waves swim program offers multiple levels of participation

Fourteen age-group swimmers make up the 2023-24 WaNee Waves Championship Swim Team. This group of kids has been working hard since the beginning of September, practicing four to five days a week, not including weekends, getting up early and spending them on the pool deck at swim meets.

While that seems like a lot of swimming, if you sat down with them individually and asked them why they do this, they would tell you they love spending time with their teammates, they love competing on the weekends, and they love their “fun” practices the coaches give them.

What is Wa-Nee Waves? The Waves is a local swim team that swims at NorthWood High School. While it is named after the local school corporation, it has kids from different area schools who participate.

Waves runs three different groups. Red is the beginner group; those kids work one on one with coaches and lifeguards to work on strengthening their swimming ability.

The white group is the precompetitive group. These kids have a great, solid base of swimming and compete in a few meets each year. The black group is the championship team. They put a lot of time in at practice and swim in several meets each year.

The championship team consists of three different teams:

Age group, middle school and high school. The current group of swimmers is the largest the program has had in several years, allowing them to participate in several relays.

None of what these kids do would be possible if the team did not have an amazing group of parents who support their kids and the program. The Waves are also incredibly privileged to work hand in hand with the NorthWood athletic department, which always has provided a strong support system for the age group team as it feeds the middle and high school programs.

Good luck to the Waves as the kids compete during the next few weekends. Swim fast and swim hard as you represent NorthWood.

Annual Nappanee Train Show March 16

The Elkhart Model Railroad Club extends a warm invitation to collectors, enthusiasts and the public of all ages to experience the magic of trains at the highly-anticipated 19th annual Nappanee Train Show.

Hosted by the EMRRC, which is in its 74th year, this event will take place from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Saturday, March 16, at the Claywood Event Center, 13924 N. CR 1100W, Nappanee.

Prepare to be mesmerized by over 150 vendor tables showcasing a diverse array of train styles and scale sizes, catering to the discerning tastes of collectors and enthusiasts alike. Guests of all ages are invited to immerse themselves in the world of model trains, enjoying

mesmerizing operating displays and engaging demonstrations throughout the day.

Admission is $5 per person for

those over the age of 12, while children age 12 and under can enter for free with a paid adult. For more information on the

show or to learn more about the Elkhart Model Railroad Club, visit emrrc.com or email info@emrrc. com.

Nappanee receives design proposals for new fire station

By KEITH KNEPP Staff Writer

During the rescheduled meeting of the Nappanee Common Council held Feb. 26, Mayor Phil Jenkins informed the members that three requests for proposals were accepted for the design of the city’s new fire station.

The proposals were submitted by Performance Services of In-

dianapolis, Weigand Construction of South Bend and Majority Builders of South Bend. Jenkins noted that the RFPs purposely did not include proposed costs.

The RFPs will be reviewed by the project’s technical review committee, which will give each a score on the design proposal.

On March 11, each company will submit a sealed price proposal, which will be considered

along with the technical review’s committee’s assigned score to determine the best overall option. The city will choose which proposal to accept based on the score and price.

Construction on the new fire station, which will be located on the north side of Nappanee along SR 19, is anticipated to begin in fall of 2024 or spring of 2025.

TOP SWIMMERS Meet the 14 swimmers who make up Wa-Nee Waves 2023-24 Championship Swim Team. Pictured in the front row from left are Ellie Reynolds, Caroline Kinney, Tily Cherrone, Zach Sipic, Harper Howard, Kenzie Howard and Lizzie Kinney. In the back row are Catelynn

Burkholder, Victoria Vega, Brooke Faller, Laura Faller, Eden Wiggins, Izzy Wildauer and Savannah Sipic. The team is coached by Brad Howard and Allison Burkholder. Photo by Keith Knepp.

Nappanee and Wakarusa American Legions partner with Boy Scouts to honor America

Text and photos By KEITH KNEPP Staff Writer

During the 2023-24 football and basketball seasons at NorthWood High School, American Legion Post 154 in Nappanee and American Legion Post 307 in Wakarusa teamed up with Boy Scout Troop 733 of Nappanee to honor America. The three organizations worked together to present the colors prior to the playing of the national anthem at NorthWood’s home contests.

Additionally, following the playing of the anthem, members of the Boy Scout troop would lead the crowd in the recital of the Pledge of Allegiance.

“The reason we’re presenting flags at home football and basketball games is to promote Americanism,” said Nappanee Legion member, Rudy Espinoza. “It’s very important to show our pride, remember our heritage and support our veterans at all stages.”

Espinoza also noted the importance of Scouting and the commitment of the Scouts in Troop 733 to the Legion’s efforts in Nappanee and Wakarusa.

“Scouting helps build America’s values of freedom and preservation of our constitutional inheritance,” he said “We wave our flag to show pride. We salute all who served and

to all those who gave their ultimate sacrifice to keep America great. It all starts with Scouting.”

Espinoza also encourages all veterans and family members of veterans to join the American Legion.

“As members of the American Legion, you and your family may be entitled to many benefits,” he said.

The Nappanee American Legion is located at 201 W. Lincoln St. The Wakarusa American Legion is at 114 W. Waterford St.

Kindergarten registration information for Wa-Nee

Wa-Nee Community Schools has announced the process for kindergarten enrollment at its three elementary schools. To be eligible for kindergarten at Nappanee Elementary, Wakarusa Elementary or Woodview Elementary, the child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 1.

To ensure a smooth enrollment process, take note of the following important information:

• Kindergarten registration for Wa-Nee elementary students commenced Friday, March 1. Parents are required to visit the Wa-Nee website, wanee.org, and complete the online registration form. The information provided will be used to determine the school your child should attend based on your home address.

• After completing the online registration, families will receive an email confirmation from the school, outlining details on how to continue with the enrollment process. Families without internet access can contact the school to register by phone.

• Kindergarten Round-Up is scheduled for Thursday, March 14, with two sessions available for parents to choose from. The first session starts at 9:30 a.m. and the second session begins at 5:30 p.m. Students are not expected to attend; this event is an informational meeting for parents to learn about kindergarten expectations and ask questions. Parents can also complete registration paperwork for the enrollment process if not done beforehand.

• Upon completing the enrollment process, families are encouraged to schedule their child’s kindergarten assessment. Assessment

dates and times are limited, so it is recommended to schedule a time as soon as possible. Teachers will administer the assessments in a oneon-one setting during the spring.

Ensure you have the following documents for completing your child’s enrollment process. These items can be emailed or dropped off at the school:

• Legal birth certificate from the county health department (hospital birth certificates are not permitted).

• Immunization (shot) records.

• Proof of residency (a current bill with your name and address on it).

Ensure your child meets the minimum state vaccine requirements for kindergarten enrollment:

• DTaP: Five doses, or four if the fourth dose was administered on or after the fourth birthday.

• Polio: Four doses, with the final dose administered on or after the fourth birthday.

• MMR: Two doses.

• Hepatitis A: Two doses.

• Hepatitis B: Three doses.

• Varicella: Two doses on or after the first birthday or physician documentation of chickenpox disease history.

If you are unsure about your elementary district, contact one of the school offices for additional information:

• Nappanee Elementary: (574) 773-7421.

• Wakarusa Elementary: (574) 862-2000.

• Woodview Elementary: (574) 773-3117.

Wa-Nee Community Schools looks forward to a successful registration process and welcoming your child to kindergarten.

Dinner event for Vietnam-era veterans at Nappanee Legion

Nappanee American Legion Post 154 will host “Operation Welcome Home” Saturday, March 30.

The event is for all Vietnamera veterans, whether their time was served in the country or not. Veterans are invited to join the Legion for an evening of brotherhood and camaraderie.

A meal will be served at 6 p.m., with a program beginning at 7 p.m. Veterans are asked to RSVP

HONORING AMERICA American Legion members from Nappanee and Wakarusa posts, along with Boy Scouts from Nappanee, present the colors prior to a recent basketball game at NorthWood High School. Pictured in the front row, from left are Rudy Espinoza, Sean Swoard and M.J. Swoard. Back row: Edd Shepherd, Cindy Goans, Pam Juarez and Archie Clark.

WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL Brothers Sean Swoard and M.J. Swoard lead fans in the recital of the Pledge of Allegiance prior to a recent NorthWood High School home basketball game. The boys are members of Boy Scout Troop 733 of Nappanee.

DNR Recreation and Fishing guidebooks are available online

The latest guides to exploring Indiana’s great outdoors are now available at your fingertips and at a DNR property near you.

The 2024 Indiana Recreation Guide is available now at on.IN. gov/recguide.

state park properties can be purchased in person at the gatehouse or offices of state park properties during business hours, at shopINstateparks.com any time, or at the Boat, Sport and Travel Show.

Do you find yourself getting confused on what apps to download when you purchase a phone or tablet? Learn about helpful apps that can make your life easier.

Join this free educational program presented by Emily Christ, Purdue University Extension

educator in health and human sciences in Elkhart County. This program is being offered at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 19, at the Elkhart County Family Resource Center, 612 E. Bristol St., Elkhart. The program will be about one-hour long.

If you would like to attend the

The 2024-2025 guide to Indiana fishing, the Indiana Fishing Regulations Guide, is available at on.IN.gov/fishingguide.

Educational program on apps can save you time, money

program, pre-register by calling Jenn at (574) 533-0554 or email fink24@purdue.edu. 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 Tuesday, March 5.

The DNR’s 2024 Indiana Recreation Guide is the source for information on state parks, state forests, lakes, fish and wildlife areas, nature preserves, state park inns, and other DNR properties. The guide includes a great facilities chart and information about accessibility and fees.

Soon, free printed copies of each will be available at local retail outlets, state parks, lakes and other DNR properties.

Annual entrance passes for

Indiana resident passes cost $50. For individuals 65 years old or older, the price is $25. Annual passes for vehicles with out-ofstate license plates are $70. Normal daily gate fees for residents at most properties are $7 per instate vehicle.

For more information on Indiana state park properties, visit stateparks.IN.gov.

Fishing and hunting licenses can be purchased and printed at INHuntFish.com. They can also be purchased at retailers, county clerk offices, and most DNR properties throughout the state, as well as at the Boat, Sport and Travel Show.

Elkhart County Extension offering program on purging your papers

Do you find yourself getting overwhelmed with the stack of papers accumulating on the counter? It can be confusing knowing which papers to dispose of and which ones to keep. Learn about which paperwork to keep for a certain period of time and which ones can go in the garbage. Join this free, educational program presented by Emily Christ, Purdue University Extension Educator in Health and Human Sciences in Elkhart County. This program is being offered at 11 a.m. Monday, March 25, at the Owls Club, 2715 E. Jackson Blvd., Elkhart.

Owls Club is a private, community organization which exists to help aging adults in Elkhart County and surrounding communities thrive. Call the Owls Club at (574) 336-2652 to learn more and sign up for a free membership to register for upcoming programs including this program. The program will be about one hour long.

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 Emily at (574) 533-0554 by Monday, March 11.

E nt E rtainm E nt

Visitor Guide shows why Kosciusko County is ‘clearly’ the place to be

The Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors Bureau has released the 2024-2025 Kosciusko County Visitor Guide and also refreshed its website with the Clear-

ly Kosciusko brand.

The Visitor Guide is an annual piece produced by the visitors bureau with 50,000 copies printed and distributed this year, both in-

BEST OVERALL Allyson Peconga’s “Precious Memories” received the Best Overall award in the 2022-23 art contest. Photo provided.

Lilly Center invites local students to participate in annual art contest

The Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams spotlights Kosciusko County’s local waterways with a student art contest inspired by the lakes and streams. The Lilly Center encourages fourth through 12th-grade students from Kosciusko County public, private and home schools to enter.

The theme for this year’s contest is “Memories at the Lake.” Students are encouraged to submit artwork depicting Kosciusko County waters during one of the four seasons. No artwork depicting invasive species will be considered. For example, trumpeter and tundra swans are acceptable but mute swans are not. Instead, the Lilly Center encourages promoting the value of native species of plants and animals in the local lakes.

Prizes will be awarded for first ($100), second ($75) and third ($50) places. Winners are selected in each of the following grade categories: fourth/fifth/sixth, seventh/eighth, ninth/10th and 11th/12th. Winning pieces will be exhibited in select public spaces in Kosciusko County and made into a collection of greeting cards.

Leave artwork with Ariel Wagner at the Lilly Center, 806 Con-

nection Circle, Winona Lake. All artwork is due no later than Thursday, March 28.

The art contest is one of four Lilly Center programs that focuses on K-12 education. Lake Adventure Day, Classroom Lake Experience and destination field trips round out the opportunities. To sponsor the art contest and promote K-12 education programs in Kosciusko County, call (574) 372-5100, ext. 6446.

side and outside the county.

According to a news release, visitors use the guide as inspiration to book a relaxing getaway and find fun things to do in the community during their visits. Residents give it to visiting friends and family and use it to learn about new locations in the community each year. Businesses use it as a talent attraction and on-boarding tool for new employees. People relocating to the area use it to learn about the resources available in the community. ]

The guide includes information on recreational opportunities, dining options, shopping locations, lodging, arts and culture, and community resources within Kosciusko County, as well as articles about the community.

The Visitor Guide is also available to view on the visitors bureau website with additional video content. Last year, it had a total of 4,278 views online with 79,443 individual page views.

The visitors bureau recently began branding as Clearly Kosciusko, and the website was refreshed to reflect the new branding. It was built by Reusser Design, the company that built the visitors bureau’s previous award-winning website. Last year, the bureau’s website had 103,753 visitors total.

“We are thrilled to officially launch the Clearly Kosciusko brand and use it to promote all our area has to offer in a new and fresh

COMMUNITY RESOURCE The Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors Bureau recently released the 2024-2025 Visitor Guide. Image provided by KCCVB.

way,” said Cori Humes, executive director of the Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Visitors and residents alike use the Visitor Guide and website for trip planning, relocation and recruitment in our area. Our goal through these resources is to show that the place to live, work, learn and play is Clearly Kosciusko.”

The Visitor Guide is available for pickup at the Visitor Center in Warsaw or to view online at visitkosciuskocounty.org/digitalguides. Order print copies by filling out a form on the visitors bureau’s website, visitkosciuskocounty.org request-visitor-guide, sending an email to info@koscvb.org, or by calling (574) 269-6090.

Turn to for all your advertising needs to

FEBRUARY MEMBER OF THE MONTH

The Papers Inc. has been recognized as the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce Member of the Month for February. Ashley

the

Shown are chamber ambassadors and a few of the employees of The Papers Inc., in

of a section of the large Cromoman press.

The second row are Josh Swihart, Branden McKinney, Alicia Carnes, bindery and mail-

The Papers Inc. is chosen as S/W Chamber Member of the Month

The Papers Inc. was recently recognized by the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce as its February Member of the Month.

“The Papers and Ron Baumgartner, owner/publisher, have been a big supporter of events in the community and those hosted by the chamber,”

said Ashley Dillon, executive director of the chamber. Baumgartner also helps Milford Food Bank by providing a huge storage space for donated food.

“It’s people like Ron and the staff at The Papers, who make a difference in the community,” stated Dillon. The Papers Inc.’s flagship

newspaper, The Mail-Journal is is a consolidation of two community newspapers.

Arch Baumgartner purchased The Milford-Mail, which was established in 1888, in 1939. Most all small communities in the county had their own newspaper. Milford had its Milford Mail and a Syracuse community

newspaper operated under an assortment of flags. Many other communities had their own newspapers, normally operated by a single individual, assisted by his wife or other members of his family, but they eventually went by the wayside. There were two daily newspapers: the morning Warsaw Daily Union and afternoon Warsaw Daily Times, in the late 1940s these two papers were combined into the Warsaw TimesUnion.

Consolidation became an economic necessity and in February 1962, The Milford Mail, by then the oldest weekly newspaper in the county, and The SyracuseWawasee Journal consolidated to serve the newly formed Lakeland School Corp., now Wawasee School corporation. The new publication was renamed The Mail-Journal, combining the two former newspapers masthead names.

The consolidations strengthened the publications, but did not bring the county the total market coverage merchants desired to better advertise their wares. Area publishers were pressured by merchants for wider circulation

of their advertisements. Publishers of The Mail-Journal became convinced the time was right for the county to have a total market coverage publication and the idea of ‘the PAPER’, a free newspaper, was born. The first issue of ‘the PAPER’ came off the presses on June 30, 1971 and has been issued weekly without interruption since that time.

The Papers Inc. was formed on Nov. 17, 1972 and has grown to be known to offer high quality offset printing and a reliable source of news and other niche publications.

Through the years The Papers Inc. grew to provide weekly and monthly publications and becoming a regional commercial printer of outside magazine and newspapers. Today the company is owned and operated by Ron Baumgartner, who grew up in the business and took over from his parents.

The Papers Inc. continues to support the community and the Wawasee Community School Corporation through The MailJournal, ‘the PAPER’ and InkFreeNews.com and many of its approximately 125 employees live in the community or within

Dillon, chamber executive director and chamber ambassadors recently visited

company to bestow the member of the month honor.

front

In front, from left are Terry Shumpert, part-time delivery driver; Alyssa Trout, chamber ambassador, Oakwood Resort; Martha Stoelting, chamber ambassador; Dillon; Ron Baumgartner, owner/publisher; and Deb Patterson, editor-in-chief.

ing; Angel Brown, Auto & RV.

In the third row are Eric Burch, pressroom; Scott Slusser, IT; Jon Anthony, pressroom; Jennifer Young, estimating and Auto & RV; and Bunk Khoeuth, Auto and RV.

On the stairs from the bottom, Phil Hackworth, pressroom; Mike Morgan, bindery; Jeanetta Slabaugh, ambassador, Horizon Bank; Melody Cusick, ambassador, Remax Partners; and Rita Davis, Remax Partners.

On the top Lauren Zeugner, editorial; Susie Wert, ambassador; Angie Robbins, ambassador, Ruoff Mortgage; Ryan Austin, ambassador, Bankers Life Advisory; Jon Borton and Sierra Powell, bindery and mailing.

Obituaries

Thomas A. White

Quintessential Father

Thomas A. White, 68, passed away peacefully Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024. He was surrounded by his four children, who could not have been blessed with a better father.

The quintessential father, dad-joke lover and ultimate protector, Tom was a silent hero to many. The only thing he excelled at more than being a father was being a grandpa.

THOMAS A. WHITE

The lights of his life were his five grandchildren, Rylan (17), Liberty (12), Halen (9), Nolan (5) and Silas (2). The family members left to miss him are his mother, Glennell Webb of Syracuse; his three daughters, Lindsay White of Andrews, Sidney (Louis) Adams of Syracuse and Dani (Tommy) Dahl of Yakima, Wash.; and one son, Taylor (Kaitlin) White of New Paris. Also surviving are two brothers, Gary (Kristy) Webb Jr. of Killeen, Texas, and Troy (Deb) Webb of Syracuse; and one sister, Tammy Webb of Syracuse.

Thomas was preceded in death by his father, Gary Webb; and brother, Randy Webb.

A memorial service to honor his life was held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 2, at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse. Calling was two hours prior to the service from noon until 2 p.m.

Rose Marie Baist

Rose Marie Baist, 66, Warsaw, died Feb. 23, 2024.

She was born Oct. 9, 1957.

She is survived by a son, Dane Morris; and three grandchildren.

A private inurnment will take place at Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw. Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.

Ruth Anna Calhoun

Ruth Anna Calhoun, 90, North Manchester, formerly of Ijamsville, died Feb. 26, 2024.

She was born June 12, 1933. In 1952, she married Charles Edward Sharp. On July 7, 1989, she married Taylor Calhoun. He preceded her in death Oct. 11, 1998.

Surviving are sons, Steve Sharp, Roann, and Danny Sharp, Wabash; daughters, Barbara Jackson, Roann, and Sherry Meyer, North Manchester; sister, Susie Brown, Roanoke; sister-in-law, Jacksie Reiken, Mentone; seven grandchildren; 13 greatgrandchildren; and three great-greatgrandchildren.

Services were held March 4 at McKee Mortuary, North Manchester. Burial was in Laketon Cemetery.

Loretta J. Chupp

Loretta J. Chupp, 86, Nappanee, died Feb. 29, 2024.

She was born June 9, 1937. On Sept. 3, 1955, she married Melvin Chupp. He preceded her in death Dec. 24, 2020.

Surviving are daughters, Maralie Stutzman, Nappanee, and Cindy Somers, Palm Coast, Fla.; sons, Jim Chupp, Milford, Mike Chupp, Constantine, Mich., and Herbert Chupp, Battle Creek, Mich.; 21 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

Services were held March 5 at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen. Burial was in Violett Cemetery, Goshen.

Donald Wayne Crowder

Donald Wayne Crowder, 74, Warsaw, died Feb. 22, 2024.

He was born Oct. 21, 1949. In 1994, he married Dawn.

Surviving are his children, Amy, Brad, Shana, Isaac, Erin and Seth; 14 grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Per Don’s wishes, the family will

celebrate his life at a later date. Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw was in charge of arrangements.

Myrtus Merritt Dierks

Myrtus Merritt “Butch” Dierks, 81, North Manchester, died Feb. 24, 2024.

He was born May 1, 1942. On Oct. 11, 1964, he married Marcia J. Lenwell.

Surviving are his children, Julie Oaks, Sidney, and Eric Dierks, Zimmerman, Minn.; brothers, Phil Dierks, South Whitley, and Kris Dierks, Claypool; sisters, Joie Lotz, South Whitley, and Debbie Crapeau, Healdsburg, Calif.; and four grandchildren.

Services were held March 1 at McKee Mortuary, North Manchester. Burial will be at a later date in Milford Cemetery.

Bethany Mae Fluke

Bethany Mae Fluke, 45, Winona Lake, died Feb. 24, 2024.

She was born Nov. 10, 1978.

Surviving are her parents, Don and Cindi Fluke, Winona Lake; sister, Kim Meidal, Mainville, Ohio; her grandfather, Ken Herman; three nephews; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins; and her favorite Corgi, Jimmie Bean.

Services were held March 1 at Winona Lake Grace Brethren Church. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw. Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Anita A. Fry

Anita A. Fry, 65, Warsaw, died Feb. 26, 2024.

She was born Feb. 27, 1958. On Feb. 26, 1983, she married Randall Fry; he survives.

She is also survived by her mother, Eileen Leek, Warsaw; and siblings, Tony Leek and LuAnn Davies. A celebration of life will be at a later date. McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Catherine J. Grogg

Catherine J. Grogg, 73, Rochester, died at 12:23 p.m. Feb. 17, 2024.

She was born Sept. 20, 1950. On July 4, 1995, she married Douglas D. Grogg; he survives. She is also survived by a daughter, Karrie Moore, Cape Coral, Fla.;

stepdaughter, Tonya Jenkins, Milford; two stepgrandchildren; sister, Susan Brown, Rochester; a niece; and a nephew.

Private services were observed. Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, was in charge of arrangements.

Victor Hart

Victor Hart, 78, New Paris, died at 8:51 a.m. Feb. 25, 2024.

He was born Aug. 24, 1945. On June 24, 1967, he married Linda Elliott; she survives. Also surviving are his children, Michael Hart, North Tonawanda, N.Y., Elizabeth Hart, Nappanee, Tammy Troyer, Goshen, Joanna Montes, York, S.C., Lara Fedorow, New Paris, Rochelle Hart, Syracuse, Thaddeus Hart, Kansas City, Mo., and Brandon Hart, Elkhart; 20 grandchildren and one on the way; four great-grandchildren and one on the way; and siblings, Charles Hart, Bellevue, Ohio, and Carol Shattuck, Fort Wayne.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Private graveside services will be held at Lakeside Cemetery, Decatur, Mich. Rieth Rohrer Ehret Funeral Home, Goshen, is in charge of arrangements.

Aunt Mary Etta

Hochstetler

Aunt Mary Etta Hochstetler, 74, Nappanee, died at 6:26 a.m. Feb. 27, 2024.

She was born July 20, 1949.

Surviving are brothers, Richard Hochstetler, Farmington, N.M., Lisle Hochstetler and Danny Lee Hochstetler, both of Nappanee; sisters, Katie Elizabeth Slabaugh, Alma Slabaugh, Linda Schmucker and Sherry Miller, all of Nappanee, Maude Burkholder, Bremen, and Judy Mast, Etna Green; sisters-in-law, Maryln Hochstetler, Walkerton, and Laura Hochstetler, Nappanee; and a friend, Barb Miller, Nappanee.

Services were held March 1 at the Leon Bontrager residence in Nappanee. Burial was in Weldy Cemetery

Iris M. Kelley

Iris M. Kelley, 91, Atwood, Warsaw and Etna Green, died at 3:45 a.m. Feb. 28, 2024.

She was born Sept. 24, 1932. On July 2, 1950, she married Walter “Joe” Kelley. He preceded her in death Dec. 2, 2008.

Surviving are daughters, Josie Snell, Walkerton, Debra Stambaugh, Mentone, and Pamela Wright, Leesburg; sons, Michael Kelley, Milford, and Philip Kelley, Atwood; 11 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; and sisters, Phyllis Bryan and Mary Stamper, both of Elkhart.

Services were held March 4 at King Memorial Home, Mentone. Interment was in Harrison Center (Wooden) Cemetery, Etna Green.

Annie Louise Kessinger

Annie Louise Kessinger, 92, died at 11:30 p.m. Feb. 25, 2024.

She was born Feb. 11, 1932. On Feb. 10, 1951, she married Vernon Kessinger. He preceded her in death Jan. 6, 1994.

She is survived by a daughter, Ginny Devine, Bremen; seven grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; a great-great-granddaughter; and a sister, Minnie Autry, Salado, Texas.

Services were held Feb. 29 at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee. Burial was in Bremen Cemetery.

Gertrude Miller

Gertrude “Gertie” Miller, 86, Nappanee, died at 4:40 p.m. Feb. 26, 2024.

She was born May 7, 1937. On Aug. 24, 1958, she married Melvin Miller. He preceded her in death Sept. 10, 2015.

She is survived by a son, Mark Miller, Nappanee; two granddaughters; sister, Grace Pressler, Wakarusa; and many nieces and nephews.

Services were held March 2 at Nappanee Missionary Church Cha-

pel. Burial was in Union Center East Cemetery.

Harold Eugene Miller

Harold Eugene “Gene” Miller, 90, rural Akron, died at 2:24 p.m. Feb. 28, 2024.

He was born Jan. 28, 1934. On Dec. 25, 1954, he married Carolyn Sue Gagnon; she survives.

Also surviving are daughters, Tammy Miller, Warsaw, Lisa Hoffman, Rochester, and Penny Shewman, Mentone; sons, Kevin Miller and Stan Miller, both of Akron; 14 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; sisters, Janet F. Wood, Winona Lake, and Karen Sue Weaver, Fort Wayne; and brother, Robert Miller, Burket.

Services were held March 4 at Gospel Hill Church, Silver Lake. Burial was in Nichols Cemetery, Akron. Earl-Grossman Funeral Home, Akron, was in charge of arrangements.

Michael Eugene

Minnick Sr.

Michael “Mike” Eugene Minnick Sr., 76, Milford, died Feb. 26, 2024.

He was born July 21, 1947. On Sept. 2, 1984, he married Loretta “Lori” (Chupp) Ostendorf; she survives.

Also surviving are his children, Craig Ostendorf, Florida, Staci Ostendorf and Traci Reed, both of Indianapolis, Michael Minnick Jr., Huntington, and Neal Minnick, Syracuse; nine grandchildren; seven greatgrandchildren; and siblings, Matt Minnick, Sarasota, Fla., Marshall Minnick, Syracuse, and Sue Shock, Goshen.

Services were held March 2 at Mishler Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Milford. Burial was in Milford Cemetery.

Gordon R. Potter

Gordon R. Potter, 81, rural Rochester, died at 6:45 p.m. Feb. 23, 2024. He was born Oct. 14, 1942. On Jan. 26, 1963, he married Donna S. Eagle; she survives. Surviving are daughters, Lisa Seitz and Lori Studebaker, both of Warsaw; son, Roby Potter, Rochester; nine grandchildren; five greatgrandchildren; brother, Brian Potter, Akron; and sister, Diane Alexander, Monticello, Ill.

Following his wishes, no services will be held at this time. A memorial service/celebration of life is being planned for a later date.

Carol Creekmore Smith

Carol Louise Creekmore Smith, 70, died Feb. 23, 2024. She was born Sept. 24, 1953. On Feb. 5, 1978, she married Donald Eugene Smith, who preceded her in death in 2010.

She is survived by a daughter, Sabrina Leathers, Pierceton; son, Jeremiah E. Smith, Warsaw; two grandchildren; and a great-grandson. Visitation was held March 1 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Pierceton.

Tammy Camilla

Sandra Stanley

Tammy Camilla Sandra Stanley, 58, Wabash, died Feb. 26, 2024. She was born March 22, 1965. She married Gregory Paul Stanley, who preceded her in death.

Surviving are siblings, Robin Sizemore, Warsaw, Drema Drudge, North Manchester, Roderick Sizemore and Cherokee Sizemore, both of Silver Lake; daughters, Megan CooperStanley, North Manchester, and Jessica Stanley, Wabash; seven grandchildren; an uncle; nieces and nephews; and great-nieces and nephews. Services were held Feb. 29 at McKee Mortuary, North Manchester. Burial was in Laketon Cemetery.

Robert L. Stouder

Robert L. “Bob” Stouder, 69, Nappanee, died at 4:25 a.m. March 1, 2024.

He was born Jan. 21, 1955. On Jan. 8, 1985, he married Karla Nettrour; she survives.

Also surviving are sons, Brent Stouder, Nappanee, and Bart Stoud-

er, Warsaw; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and siblings, Theresa Graber, Syracuse, Bill Stouder, Asheville, N.C., and Joe Stouder, Washington State.

Visitation was held March 5 at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee. A graveside service followed at South Union Cemetery, Nappanee.

Randy Walgamuth

Randy Walgamuth, 63, Warsaw, died Feb. 24, 2024.

He was born July 5, 1960.

A memorial service was held Feb. 29 at Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw. Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw was in charge of arrangements.

Dalecarlia Jean Warner

Dalecarlia Jean Warner, 65, Silver Lake, died Feb. 23, 2024.

She was born May 25, 1958. She married Jerry H. Warner, who survives.

Also surviving are her children, Jerry R. Warner, Jennifer Lynn Gonzalez, Michael Eugene Warner and Jeffery Kent Warner; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; brother, Leslie Wade; and sister, Beverly Smith.

A private service was held. Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw was in charge of arrangements.

Danny B. Willard

Danny B. Willard, 83, Silver Lake, died Feb. 21, 2024.

He was born Oct. 4, 1940.

He is survived by his wife, Lucy Willard; sons, Danny Willard and Steve Willard; stepchildren, Donnie Purdy and Brenda Purdy; and 11 grandchildren.

Per his wishes, no public services will be held. Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw was in charge of arrangements.

Monte L. Wilson

Monte L. Wilson, 79, North Manchester, formerly of Akron, died at 11:56 p.m. Feb. 25, 2024.

He was born May 20, 1944. He married Mary Ann Ruff Wilhite. She preceded him in death June 19, 2020.

Surviving are his children, Andy Wilson, New Jersey, Erika Wilson, Mitchel, and Cody Dobner, Orleans; eight grandchildren; four greatgrandchildren; sister, Yvonne Lent, Sidney; and brother, John Wilson, San Diego, Calif.

Following his wishes, no services will be held at this time. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Carolyn Frances Yoder

Carolyn Frances Yoder, 84, Goshen, died at 4:38 a.m. Feb. 26, 2024.

She was born March 23, 1939. On Sept. 20, 1959, she married Glenn Yoder. He preceded her in death Nov. 29, 2019.

She is survived by a daughter, Diane Glick, Goshen; son, Rick Yoder, Wakarusa; three grandsons; brother, Don Yoder, Elkhart; sister-in-law, Birdena Bollenbacher, Wakarusa; and many nieces and nephews.

Services were held March 4 at Yellow Creek Mennonite Church. Burial was in Yellow Creek Mennonite Church Cemetery.

Rose Evelyn Young

Rose Evelyn Young, 91, North Manchester, died Feb. 24, 2024.

She was born Dec. 3, 1932. In 1950, she married Ernest Alvin Young Jr.

Surviving are sons, Gary Young, Carmel, Rex Young, Goshen, and Philip Young, Medina, Ohio; daughters, Kay Bailey, Marion, Rebecca Wampler, Bourbon, Beverly Spangler, The Villages, Fla., Debra Taylor, Huntington, Barbara Wood, North Manchester, and Kathy Selby, Fort Wayne; brother, Ron Rheam, Loogootee; sisters, Joyce Reese, Gas City, and Carolyn Bryant, Van Buren; 23 grandchildren; 44 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.

Services were held March 2 at Liberty Mills Church of the Brethren. Burial was in Oaklawn Cemetery, North Manchester. McKee Mortuary, North Manchester, was in charge of arrangements.

C ounty R epo R t

Court News

Small Claims

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

Client Services KL v. Timothy A. Budde, $880.25; v. Candice N. Coe, $1,359.69; v. Edgar Solorzano, $816.73

CommunityWide Federal Credit Union v. Michael Fulford, $922.95

Aegis Dental Group Warsaw PC v. Veronica L. Kemp, $1,827.11; v. Samantha A. Knight, $70; v. Ashley M. Lemler, $750.40; v. Paul B. Maples, $750; v. Denitriss L. McKenzie, $199; v. Daniel I. Meza, $755; v. Antoinette N. Nance-Mose, $1,416; v. Lisa C. Ousley, $1,498.87; v. Autumn L. Riggins, $2,554.89

Adam R. Sheets, $858.95; v. Bradley A. Stevens, $1,170.40; v. Kaitlyn E. Stump, $878; v. Amber N. Winslow, $704.85

Civil Collections

The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler presiding: LVNV Funding LLC v. Jennifer Bell, $694.24; v. Nancy Bell, $2,645.87; v. Adam Coppock, $1,240.38 Kevin Hall, $1,363.25

Glenbrook Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Dianah Rochell Bradford, $18,424.76

Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. Sabrina England, $1,744.54; v. Matt Gillis, $1,092.91; v. Lincoln Lusk, $1,276.08; v. Cristiana Riner, $4,027.21; v. Joshua A. Savage, $1,718.84; v. Scott Shideler, $2,892.82

TD Bank USA NA, as successor in interest to Target National Bank v. Eliana Fitzgerald, $736.34

Autovest LLC of Indiana v. Jordan A. Hylton, $8,582.02

DNF Associates LLC v. Brian G. Jenks, $668.32 Citibank NA v. Christian Ortiz, $4,865.14

Midland Credit Management Inc. v. Richard Page, $1,260.12

Absolute Resolutions Investments LLC v. Arley Popoola, $1,098.24

Kitch Acceptance Corp. v. Dustin Rose, $8,187.62

Synchrony Bank v. Elbert E. Sammons, $7,897.85

Rent to Own Rentals LLC v. Onda E. Shafer, $21,723.21

Synchrony Bank v. Mark A. Snyder, $4,554.45

Consumer Portfolio Services Inc. v. Jason C. Stoner, $10,507.98

Cavalry SPV I LLC v. Kayla Templin, $920.21

NCB Management v. Jennifer Wolfe, $2,609.32

Evictions

The following evictions have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Culver Development Corp. v. Stephen Boatman, $3,538.72; v. Dreanna Hall, fk/a Dreanna Yoder, Trey Hall, $4,228.95

Sherri Makinson v. Alexandria Cannon, $4,033

Amanda Gidley v. Rodney France, Travis L. Hardin, $1,485; v. Rodney France, $6,010

Orchard Ridge Apartments v. Larry Hicks, Mackenzie Hicks, $4,086.04

Jones Estates Suburban Acres v. Judy Rowe, $5,242.99

Mortgage Foreclosures

The following mortgage foreclosures have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Carrington Mortgage Services LLC v. Carrie A. and Phillip M. Arnie, $130,766.88

PNC Bank, National Association v. Tessa Smith and Kyle Townsend, $183,763.90

Plenaries

The following plenary has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court I, Judge Karin McGrath presiding:

Via Credit Union v. Brandon Tapp, $30,636.69

Superior Court III

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

Speeding — Tyler J. Miller, Winona Lake, $164.50; Israel A. Santos, Etna Green, $164.50; Amanda N.

West, Warsaw, $164.50; Nicholas W. Bell, Warsaw, $164.50

Child restraint system violation — Jeremy L. Conover, Warsaw, $25

Operating with expired plates

Casey B. Wallace, Warsaw, $164; Joseph M. Ludwick, North Webster, $164; Jonathon A. Hernandez, Warsaw, $164

No valid driver’s license — Frida I. Delgado, Warsaw, $164.50

Operating a motor vehicle without financial responsibility — Tammy M. Dishman, Warsaw, $189.50

Disregarding an official traffic control device — Shari L. Carr, Warsaw, $164.50; Seth K. Libey, Bremen, $164.50; Timothy J. Nussbaum, Warsaw, $164.50

Failure to register — Mickey L. Estep, Warsaw, $164.50

Failure of occupant to use safety belt — James D. Bartley, Claypool, $25; Luis Rodrigo Mota Alonso, Warsaw, $25; Josue Humberto Sanchez Rodriguez, Bremen, $25 Distracted driving — Bryce J. Gilmer, Cromwell, $164.50

Marriage Licenses

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

Blake-Marshall

Anthony Brian Blake, 44, Warsaw, and Brittany Anne Marshall, 38, Warsaw Menchaca-Hurley

Heather Renee Menchaca, 32, Warsaw, and Craig Randall Hurley, 30, Claypool

Faudree-Sibayan

Brent Dee Faudree, 62, Warsaw, and Audry Castillo Sibayan, 53, Warsaw Richards-Jeckert

Amy Richards, 31, North Webster, and Tyler Jeckert, 32, North Webster

Abbott-Farnsworth

Kyle Jacob Abbott, 28, Warsaw, and Madison J. Farnsworth, 23, Warsaw

Dudeck-Rhoades

Joshua Dean Dudeck, 29, Larwill, and Alexandria Renee Rhoades, 26, Pierceton

Marriage Dissolutions

The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in Kosciusko Superior Courts I and IV:

Francois-Accius — David Francois, Warsaw, and Nandy P. Accius, Hialeah, Fla. They were married in December 2013, and separated in June 2020. Two minor children.

Villatta-Castillo — Jocelyn Villatta, Warsaw, and Vicente Castillo, Warsaw. They were married Aug. 26, 2017, and separated Oct. 14, 2023. Two minor children.

Bewick-Westgate — Jael Bewick, Winona Lake, and Cory Westgate, Pierceton. They were married Nov. 20, 2016, and separated Jan. 7, 2023. One minor children.

Liebetrau-Dillon — Siquilla H. Liebetrau, Warsaw, and Paul A. Dillon, Warsaw. They were married Nov. 29, 1997, and separated Feb. 26, 2024. Two minor children.

Hershberger — Charles R. Hershberger, Warsaw, and Kay E. Hershberger, Silver Lake. They were married Aug. 28, 1982, and separated in July 2023. No minor children.

Roberts — Sharon Roberts, Claypool, and Dan Roberts, Claypool. They were married May 3, 1985, and separated Jan. 3, 2024. No minor children.

Ross — Miquela Ross, Warsaw, and Brandon Ross, North Webster. They were married Sept. 3, 2022, and separated March 26, 2023. No minor children.

Kern-Clark-Kern — Nicholas Kern, Milford, and Sierra ClarkKern, Milford. They were married Dec. 9, 2015, and separated Feb. 13, 2024. One minor child.

Bradley — Melissa Bradley, Claypool, and Weston Bradley, Pierceton. They were married June 27, 2020, and separated Nov. 17, 2023. No minor children.

Snyder — Stacy Snyder, Warsaw, and Adam Snyder, Warsaw. They were married July 2, 2003, and separated Dec. 15, 2017. No minor children.

Gibson — Taysha Gibson, North Webster, and Rastis Gibson, Huntington. They were married June 28, 2023, and separated Sept. 3, 2023. No minor children.

Owens — Kathy A. Owens, Pierceton, and Anthony E. Owens, Claypool. They were married June 29, 1983, and separated Feb. 3, 2024. No minor children.

Rhoades-Miller — Aaron Rhoades, Pierceton, and Jacquelynn Miller, Warsaw. They were married Dec. 5, 2021, and separated Oct. 10, 2022. No minor children.

B i R ths

Wine Twins

Chris Wine and Charley Page, Ligonier, are the parents of twins, Ellie Jo and Roman Douglas, born Feb. 21, 2024, at Goshen Hospital. Ellie Jo was born at 3:23 p.m., weighed 5 pounds. 8.2 ounces and was 18 inches long. Roman Douglas was born at 3:25 p.m., weighed 5 pounds, 13.3 ounces and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Allayah Grace Miller

Joas and Karen (Bontrager) Miller, Goshen, are the parents of a daughter, Allayah Grace, born at 2:31 a.m. Feb. 23, 2024. She weighed 6 pounds, 15 ounces.

Jaylon Dean Miller

Freeman and Rosetta (Miller) Miller, Goshen, are the parents of a son, Jaylon Dean, born at 4:58 p.m. Feb. 23, 2024, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 8 pounds, 5 ounces, and was 20 inches long.

Kennedy Gage Hochstetler

Kyra Berkeypile and Gage Hochstetler, Nappanee, are the parents of a daughter, Kennedy Gage, born at 10:31 p.m. Feb. 26, 2024, at Goshen Hospital. She weighed 8 pounds, 4.2 ounces, and was 20 inches long.

Grace College Delegation visits partner institution in Budapest, Hungary

Five Grace College faculty and staff members recently returned from a visit to the school’s partner institution, Károli Gáspár University, located in Budapest, Hungary. The visit, which lasted from Feb. 7-11, allowed representatives from both schools to reconnect, discuss general education course exchange and brainstorm additional opportunities for partnership.

“At Grace, we open the door to international education both on our campus and around the world,” said Dr. Lindsey Richter, director of the Institute of Global Studies at Grace. “The partnership between Grace and Károli Gáspár, one of the largest Christian universities in Hungary, has provided rich cultural learning experiences through exchange semesters and short-term trips. As our partnership grows, we are excited for additional opportunities to welcome Károli students and faculty on our campus and to explore new summer programming for Grace students in the beautiful city of Budapest.”

Richter was joined on the visit by Dr. Pat Loebs, professor of communication, who has previously spent a semester teaching at Károli in the fall of 2019, and Dr. Jared Burkholder, professor of American and

world history. During their visit, Loebs and Burkholder both presented papers at Károli’s International Academic Conference: “Social Science Aspects of Social Media.”

Also participating was Deborah Wilhite, program coordinator of the Institute for Global Studies, and Dr. Ryan Johnson, director of general education. While Wilhite connected with her Hungarian counterparts to streamline cultural exchange opportunities, Johnson began developing a number of Humanities Core course equivalencies, making transferabilty between the two institutions much easier.

All five participants took part in a formal meet and greet with Károli Gáspár’s Rector, Professor Dr. László Trócsányi. Every member of Grace’s delegation reported what an honor it was to have face time with such a prestigious individual.

“It was a lovely experience to meet with the faculty of a Christian university that, although on another continent, share our love for Jesus and our commitment to academic excellence that we have here at Grace College,” said Johnson. “We have begun the process of simplifying the transfer of course credit for our general education courses, and given the quality of the faculty

we met with and the extent of their cooperation with us so far, I believe we will succeed.”

The Grace faculty and staff also attended Golybal, a freshman ball at Károli, as well as the orientation week for international students.

Since the partnership between Grace and Károli was established in 2017, 10 Grace students have chosen to study at Károli for a semester.

“Studying at Károli Gáspár was an extraordinary experience for me, both educationally and personally,” said Kyrsten Newlon, a 2021 Grace graduate who studied in Hungary during her last semester of college.

“While there, I had the opportunity to meet and learn alongside students from so many different cultures. The professors were as invested in exploring cultural differences as we were. Studying abroad is a significant decision, and it’s not one you should take lightly. But I cannot imagine being where and who I am without those experiences.”

Grace has also hosted several students from Károli Gáspár on its campus. Currently, Bogi Trocsanyi of Pécs, Hungary, is taking criminal justice courses at Grace.

provided by Grace College.

“I knew two students from Grace who were studying at my school a year ago, and hearing about their experience convinced me to apply,” said Trocsanyi. “I have always wanted to study abroad, specifically in the U.S., so I was really excited about this opportunity.”

According to Trocsanyi, her favorite part of studying abroad has been making new friends and getting connected in the Grace community.

“Our time in Hungary was en-

couraging,” said Richter. “We are thankful for the relationships we have at Károli Gáspár and the opportunities the partnership offers for students from both institutions. We are committed to advancing this partnership for the glory of God.”

To learn more about Grace’s Global Institute and study abroad opportunities, visit grace.edu/ academics/undergraduate/studyabroad; to learn more about Károli Gáspár University, visit english. kre.hu.

GRACE COLLEGE VISITS PARTNER INSTITUTION — Five Grace College faculty and staff members recently returned from a visit to the school’s partner institution, Károli Gáspár University in Budapest, Hungary. Photo

Elkhart Extension hosting program on dangers of beauty products

Auction Sales A010 Auction Sales A010

PDid you know that the largest organ of the human body is skin? Being the largest organ means that it also absorbs the most bacteria. Learn about how chemicals, cos-

metics, and other hazardous products people use could wreak havoc to our internal health without us even knowing it. Join this free educational pro-

ublic A uctions

Live/Online Company

Liquidation Auction

9 a.m. Saturday, March 9. Located at 101 Maple St., Millersburg. Forklift, 40’ containers, racking hoppers, office equipment, new boxes, new furniture, mirrors, prints, decorative smalls, pillows, decor, huge amount of dried flowers. Online bidding starts 10 a.m., available at proxibid.com. More information and photos at hahnrealtyandauction.com. Hahn Auctioneers.

Online Only

Spring Toy Auction

Bid now through 6 p.m. Monday, March 11. Farm and vintage toys, diecast, wind-up and friction toys, model kits, candy dispensers, banks, steins, collectibles and more. Including Marx, Wyandotte, Disney, K.O., Dinky Toys, T.K. Toys, Unique Art, Germany and Schuco. Pickup Tuesday, March 12 by appointment only, located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Bidding, full catalogs and photos available at metzgerauction.com.

Online Only Auction

Penguin Point Restaurant Liquidation Auction

Bid now through 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 13. Ice machines, slicers, tables and chairs, receptacles, appliances and more. Pickup Thursday, March 14 by appointment only, located at 2691 E. US 30, Warsaw. Bidding, full catalog and photos available at metzgerauction.com. Metzger Property Services.

Vana-Dell Farms

Public Auctions

gram, presented by Emily Christ, Purdue University Extension Educator in Health and Human Sciences in Elkhart County. This program is at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 21, in person at the Purdue Extension

Elkhart County office.

If you would like to attend the program, register by calling Jenn at the extension office at (574) 5330554 or emailing fink24@purdue. edu. 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 Emily Christ at (574) 533-0554 by March 7.

10 a.m. Thursday, March 14. Located at 4494 S. County Farm Road, Warsaw. Tractors, trucks, trailers, combine, generator, welder, large amount of shop items, household items, grain, hay and fertilizer equipment. More information and photos available at hahnauctionandrealty.com. Hahn Auctioneers.

Public Auction

Bid now through 6 p.m. Monday, March 11. Over 800 pieces of milk glass, including Westmoreland, Fenton and Indiana, “on nest” collection, slag Glass, oil lamps, primitives, pottery and crocks, food Choppers and more. Pickup Tuesday, March 12, located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Bidding and full catalog with photos available at metzgerauction.com.

Adam Family Farm

Real Estate Auction

6 p.m. Tuesday, March 12. Located at Millersburg Town Hall, 201 W. Washington St., Millersburg. Property located at 10751 CR 146, Millersburg. Forty acres in five varied parcels. Parcel 1: House, barn, outbuildings and 10.5 acres. Parcel 2: 9.5 acres bare land. Parcel 3: 6.7 acres bare land. Parcel 4: 4.3 acres bare land. Tract 5: 9 acres bare land. More information and photos available at hahnauctionandrealty. com. Hahn Auctioneers.

9 a.m. Saturday, March 16. Located at 4050 N. 500W, Shipshewana. Belgian horses, farm equipment, hog and butchering equipment, buggies and harness, shop and outdoor items, household items. Full catalog available at auctionzip.com. Chupp Auctions.

Lake Wawasee/Syracuse Lake Property Auction

11 a.m. Saturday, March 16. Located at 5833 Pickwick Dr., Syracuse. Channel front property, 3-bed, 2-bath, featuring 2-car garage and and enclosed porch overlooking channel. Open house 4-6 p.m. Monday, March 4. Hahn Auctioneers. Weaver Land Auction

20.8R42 average rubber w/matching duals, 16.9R30 front rubber, 5238 hrs.; 1994 Case/IH 7240 (Ser # JJA0051038), 3 pt., 3 remotes, 18 front wts., 1000 pto, 18.4R46 good rubber w/matching duals, 16.9R30 front rubber w/duals, 7645 hrs.; 1975 IH 4366 (Ser # 2970002U009636), 4WD, 3 pt., 3 remotes, no pto, 23.1R30 good rubber w/matching duals on all 4, (rebuilt engine & transmission 200 hrs. ago, work order will be posted on tractor), 3166 hrs. on tach (Nice Tractor); 1975 IH 1066 (Ser # 8677682), 2 post canopy, 3 pt., 2 remotes, dual pto, rear wts. & Frt. wt. bracket, 18.4R38 good rubber, 10.00-16 front rubber, 310 hrs. on tach, “Nice”; 1970 Case Agri King 1170 Black Demonstrator (Ser # 8677682), cab, 451 Turbo, 3 pt., 3 remotes, 1000 pto, frt. rock box, 18.4R38 fair rubber w/duals, 5520 hrs. on tach; 1962 Case 830 Diesel, N.F. (Ser # 820-2914), draw bar hitch, single remote, 18.4-38 rubber, 3967 hrs. on tach; 1975 Case/David Brown 995 Utility (Ser # 947517), Diesel, 3 pt., single remote, 16.9-30 rubber, w/Case loader, 66” material bucket & hay spear attachment; 1955 Case 400 Diesel, N.F. (Ser # 806-7293), Eagle hitch, 14.9-38 rubber; 1977 JD 4430 (Ser # 073424R), cab, quad trans., 3 pt., 2 remotes, Frt. rock box, pto, 3 sets of rear wts., 18.4R38 new inside rubber w/clamp on duals, 6373 hrs. on tach, (Last year for 4430); 1972 JD 4320 (Ser # 024323R), open station, quad trans., 3 pt. w/quick hitch, 2 remotes, rear wts. & 10 front wts. 20.8R38 good rubber w/Hub mt. duals, 11L-16.1 front rubber w/fenders, 8786 hrs. on tach “Nice”; 1970 Oliver 1755 Diesel (Ser # 223-248), open station, W.F., 3 pt., 2 remotes, 18.4R38 good rubber, (trans. Needs work), 5538 hrs. on tach; 1968 Oliver 1850 Diesel (Ser # 203-533), open station, W.F., 3 pt., 2 remotes, 18.4R34 very good rubber w/Bush Hog 2400 loader w/bale spears, 7484 hrs. on tach; 1966 Oliver 1850 Diesel (Ser # 177-299), open station, W.F., 3 pt., 2 remotes, 18.4R34 good rubber, 193 hrs. on tach; 1966 Oliver 1650 Gas (Ser # 182-628), open station, W.F., 3 pt., 2 remotes, 16.9-34 fair rubber w/Kelly 800 loader, 2891 hrs. on tach, “Nice”; 1953 Oliver 88 Diesel, N.F. (Ser # 004141127), lights, fenders, rear step, single remote, 14.9-38 good rubber, good paint w/older restoration; 1947 IH M, N.F. (Ser # 140420), power steering, older restoration, 13.6-38 good rubber; 1944 IH H N.F.(Ser # 160235), (rough – parts or restoration); 1953 Case VAC, W.F. (Ser # 5762096) , (rough – parts or restoration); Kobelco Model SK210LC Excavator (Ser # Y007-V0168), 32” tracks, 36” grapple bucket, 7754 hrs.; Komatsu D 39E Dozer (Ser # 4750003P096216), 20” tracks, 8’6” blade, 4 post canopy, 4427 hrs.; Case CK 580 Backhoe, open station, 80” material bucket, 24” hoe bucket, 14.9R24 rubber; 1995 Bobcat 763 Diesel (Ser # 512214377), (rebuilt 200 hrs. ago), cage, 66” material bucket, 10-16.5 very good rubber, 4571 hrs.; (bale spears – 48” pallet forks, 20-ton log splitter to be sold after Skid Steer); Mitsubishi FG 30 R Forklift (Ser # AFBD31509); 6000# L.P., 10’ mast, 6.50-10 rear, 8-15-15 front solid rubber.

COMBINE - GRAIN TABLES - CORN HEAD - (2) HEAD CARRIERS - GRAIN CART - (3) AUGERS

2008 Case/IH 2588 RWA (ser # HAJ304674) bin ext., spreader, 520-85R-42 matching duals, 600-65R28 rears, 2996 E. 2047 S. (Work order on the combine that was done prior to the ’23 harvest with very little use due to neighbor support, will be posted on the machine day of auction); 2004 Case/IH 1020 (Ser # JJCO333207) 30’ Grain Table; 1996 Case/IH 1020 (Ser# JJCO221143) 30’ Grain Table (damaged); 2006 Case/IH 2208 (Ser # CBJO31528) 8R30” Corn Head; Unverferth 30’ Head Carrier; EZ Trail 672 20’ Head Carrier; J&M 750-18 Grain Cart (Ser # 3458), 30.5L-32 AG rubber w/tarp; Feterl 8”x60’ pto Auger; Mayrath 8”x52’ Swing Away Auger; Westfield WR80-51 pto Auger.

TRUCKS - TRAILERS

6 p.m. Tuesday, March 19, located at Milford Community Building, 11 S. Main St., Milford. Property located at 11904 N. 175E, Milford. Land, 74.5 acres in four tracts. Tract 1: 12.67 acres, road frontage on 175E and 1200N. Tract 2: 20.5 acres, approximately 5 acres wooded, road frontage on 175E. Tract 3: 20.5 acres, all tillable, road frontage on 175E. Tract 4: 20.5 acres, all tillable, road frontage on 175E and 1150N. House and buildings not included. More information at hahnauctionandrealty.com. Hahn Auctioneers.

2006 Freightliner Semi (Vin # 1FUJC5CV26HV43501), tandem axle, day cab, 10-speed trans., Mercedes-Benz engine, 22.5 rubber, 425,902 miles; 1994 Timpte 40’ Hopper Bottom (Vin # H4002XRB085648), spring ride, w/ tarp, 24.5 rubber; 1985 IH 1900 DT 466, (Vin # 1HTLDUXNFHA20306), 5 spd. trans., 22’ flat tilt bed w/2’dove tail, winch, 22.5 rubber (used for hay hauling); IH 4700 DT 466 E 24’ Box Truck (Niv # IHTSCAAM41H380988), single axle (not running); 1972 (Vin # F61DVP20937) Ford 600 single axle Truck (Vin # F61DVP20937), 12’ Grain bed, 40” sides w/12” ext., 5 + 2 spd., 8.25x20 rubber w/hoist; 1975 Ford 800 tandem axle 20’ Grain Truck (Vin # R80DVW05323), 3208 Cat 5+2 spd., tarp & cargo doors; 2023 E-Z Hay Hauler, tandem axle, 32’, 8 bale, 8 lug wheels & brakes, 235/80R-16 rubber; Load Craft Trailer, 34’, 25 ton, step deck, tandem axle, w/2’ beaver tail & ramps; 98 Bri-Mar 6’x12’ tandem axle Dump Trailer, E. hoist (fair cond.); 20’ tri-axle Trailer w/4’ beaver tail & ramps, Pintle hitch; 32’ Semi single axle Van Trailer; 1989 Bison 16’ tandem axle Stock Trailer; 22’x8’ flatbed Trailer dual tandem axles, Pintle hitch, 9.5x16.5 rubber; Shop Built 14’x6 ½’ Skid Steer flatbed Trailer, tandem axle, 2’ beaver tail, ramps, Pintle hitch, 14.5 rubber.

IMPLEMENTS

Kinze 3500 (Ser # 905523), 8R 30” Corn Planter w/ liquid fert., bean boxes w/meters; ADS bulk seed buggy, Subaru Rubin Ex 40 engine, w/3 compartments & tandem axle; Gravity wagon w/16’ unloading seed auger & 10 ton gear; Krause 3954 NR Rock Flex Disc (Ser # 1744), 24’ 7 ½ “ spacing, rear hitch; JD 2310 24’ 9” Mulch Finisher (Ser # NO2310X004227), 7 ½ “ spacing w/rear leveling spikes; Krause 4800, 11 Shank Landsaver, 13’ w/front disc blades, walking tandems, 8 shank rear leveler; Krause 4428 D (Ser # 2102), 28’ solid Cultipacker; Unverferth 26’ Rolling Harrow II; Brillion 15’ Cultimulcher w/front crow foot, tandem wheels; Kewanee 3 pt., 13 shank Chisel Plow w/buster bar; Blu-Jet 3 pt., 9 shank Anhydrous Applicator; 17 shank 16’ Chisel Plow w/rear hitch; JD 4 section 20’ spike tooth Harrow w/hyd. cart; IH 550, 3 pt. 4-16” semi mount Plow; Bush Hog 13414 14’ Rotary Mower; Bush Hog 11’ tandem wheel offset Disc; JD 825, 3 pt., 8 R 30” Cultivator; AC 5’ pull type Bush Hog (rough); New Idea 205 single axle pto Flail Manure spreader; JD 210 Feed Cart; Ford, 3pt, 7’ Snowblower; Little Rhino, 3 pt., 6’, Grader Blade; Balzer Liquid Manure Spreader, 3000 gal., tandem axle, 1000pto, 21.5-16.1 flotation rubber, (tank has been rebuilt); NH 353 Grinder Mixer w/screens, 10’ auger w/7’ auger ext.; (3) Gravity wagons. HAY EQUIPMENT

2016 Claas Variant 360 RC Round Baler (Ser # 75104442), net wrap w/monitor; 2008 Case IH DC 132 Discbine (Ser # Y8N080491), 13’, small 1000 pto; NH H5270 Tri fold (Ser # YAZKOD401), pto, 6 basket Hay Tedder; NH HT154 (Ser # 211806) Hyd. 14 V-Wheel Rake; Gehl Forage Wagon w/gear (rough); JD open top Forage Wagon w/8T gear (rough); Gehl 99 Forage Blower; Hesston 10 Stackhand; (2) 8x20’ Polydeck flat rack Hay Wagons w/10 T JD & NH gears; 3 pt. Bale Spear.

SHOP - MISCELLANEOUS

Gen Power 15,000 KTW PTO Continuous Generator; AC 62.5 KW surge 125 KW Continuous pto Generator w/trailer; Portable Air Compressor w/Honda Engine (rough); 3 pt. Clover Seeder; (4) 225/75R15 new trailer tires w/rims; (2) 2300 gal. poly tanks; 1100-gal. poly tank w/Pacer pump & hoses; 3 sets of JD rear wts., (6) JD front wt. w/wt. bracket; round bale Hay Feeders; rectangle cattle Hay Feeder; cattle Water Tanks; 12’ & 20’ cattle Gates; Creep Feeder; EasyWay cattle Duster w/Mineral Feeder (rough); 20’Lx12’Wx8’T metal Quonset (open on one end); Acetylene torch w/ tanks & cart; jack stands; assort. of Imp. tires & rims; 55 gal. barrel of hydraulic fluid; 55-gal barrel of Citguard 700 SB 15W40 Oil; 1000-gal. Fuel Tank w/6T gear; 1000-gal, Fuel Tank on skids w/E. Pump; 500-gal. Fuel Tank w/E. Pump; (2) 300-gal. Fuel Tanks w/stands; 100-gal. Fuel Tank w/pump; 3-Ring Feed Bin w/auger; Steel Barrels.

AUCTION NOTE: This is a very nice family-owned auction with a lot of variety and quality items. Please use Friday March 15th for your inspection day, as the equipment will be set up for viewing. If you are coming a distance, there is motel accommodation in South Bend (12 miles North) or in Plymouth (8 miles South). This is a Live Auction Only. Go

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First-generation Grace College student

honored for ‘Realizing the Dream’

Bianca Jimenez-Ortiz, a Grace College sophomore from Elkhart, was recently one of 30 Hoosier students to receive the “Realizing the Dream” scholarship from Independent Colleges of Indiana. Each of the honorees is a sophomore student who has “realized the dream” to be the first in his or her family to attend college.

The event is made possible by the support of Lilly Endowment, Inc. Each honoree received a $4,000 scholarship to help with college costs.

One out of every three students on ICI campuses is first generation. Generous financial aid, provided by ICI institutions, combined with state and federal grants, makes a private college education a possibility for all Hoosier students, including Jimenez-Ortiz.

Jimenez-Ortiz was inspired to pursue higher education as a way to honor the sacrifices her parents made when they immigrated to the U.S.

“It was always instilled in me that I needed to make the most of the opportunities I had, because my parents didn’t have those same opportunities,” said Jimenez-Ortiz.

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search, Jimenez-Ortiz was set on attending a large, out-ofstate college, but she decided to also tour some smaller colleges close to home. Upon visiting Grace College, she discovered that it had the exact major and minor she wanted to pursue.

“I saw this as a sign that Grace College was where I was meant to be,” said Jimenez-Ortiz. “I felt so seen throughout my visit. Grace made me feel at home. I didn’t feel that at any other college visit.”

Jimenez-Ortiz is majoring in political science and minoring in pre-law and behavioral science. She plans on attending law school after she graduates, with the hopes of becoming an attorney and opening her own law firm.

As a sophomore, JimenezOrtiz is heavily involved on campus through various clubs and leadership roles. She participates in Esperanza Latina to build relationships with likeminded students. She is also a member of the award-winning Grace College Mediation Team. Jimenez-Ortiz even had the opportunity to compete with the team last year in Bologna, Italy.

In addition, Jimenez-Ortiz served as the vice president of

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student senate, and this year, she leads the first-generation student organization.

“Being a first-generation student myself, I wanted to give back and let others know that they are not alone in their firstgeneration student experience,” said Jimenez-Ortiz.

When she found out she had been awarded the Realizing the Dream scholarship, JimenezOrtiz was both shocked and overjoyed. She remembers feeling blessed, all the hard work that went into her various extracurricular positions had paid off.

“Every day I am here at Grace College, it becomes clearer that this is exactly where I am meant to be,” said Jimenez-Ortiz. “This institution has challenged me and made me grow as a person and as a Christ-follower.”

Grace College provides significant financial aid for students. In fact, nearly 25% of its incoming students are attending Grace tuition free through a combination of federal, state and institutional aid.

For more information about Grace College, including financial aid and scholarship information, visit grace.edu/admissions or call (866) 974-7223.

REALIZING THE DREAM SCHOLARSHIP WINNER — Grace College sophomore, Bianca Jimenez-Ortiz, is one of 30 Hoosier students to receive the “Realizing the Dream” scholarship from Independent Colleges of Indiana. The scholarship is worth $4,000 and is awarded to first-generation college students. Photo provided by Grace College.

Sign up starts for Bob Ross-style painting class in Warsaw

The Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department will be offering the “Bob Ross “Blaze of Color’” canvas oil painting class in April.

The class will take place from 6-9 p.m. Friday, April 19, at the Firemen’s Building, 1013 E. Arthur St., Warsaw.

The cost will be $50 per participant, with all materials provided.

Participants will be creating a Bob Ross-style landscape painting on a 16-by-20-inch canvas under the instruction of Laura Wildwoods from the Secret Studio in the Wild Woods.

Registration is required and runs through April 12, unless the class is filled earlier. A maximum number of 20 participants will be accepted. The session is

open to those age 14 or older.

To register, visit warsaw. in.gov, click on “parks and recreation,” then click on “programs.” Scroll down to the desired program and click the “register here” link.

If you need assistance or have questions, send an email to parksevents@warsaw.in.gov or call (574) 372-9554.

Crossroads Bank welcomes new executive

Rob Spencer has recently been hired as vice president and mortgage loan originator at Crossroads Bank in Warsaw. Spencer comes to Crossroads Bank with more than 25 years of experience in the mortgage industry.

After being born and raised in Tillamook, Ore., and obtaining his Master of Business Administration from Portland State University, Spencer moved to Warsaw with his wife and two children in 2006 and has been a community-involved resident in

Kosciusko County.

Spencer is a member of the Builders Association of North Central Indiana and Kosciusko Board of Realtors. He has also been a member of the Builders Association of North Central Indiana golf committee for more than two years.

“Mortgage lending is all about serving our northern Indiana homeowners, and I am excited about being with a bank, like Crossroads, who is truly dedicated long term to us,” said Spencer.

ROB SPENCER

Warsaw High School student wins Breakfast Optimist essay contest

Warsaw Community High School student, Caleb Smith, recently won the Warsaw Breakfast Optimist Club’s essay contest based on the theme “How Optimism Connects Us.”

Smith will be awarded a cash prize of $300 for the honor. In addition, the essay will be sent to the district level to be judged along with winners from other Optimist clubs in the district. College scholarships are available for top winners at the district level.

The second-place winner, Bryttin Wagoner of Lincoln Elementary, and third-place winner, Lynk Klinefelter of Wawasee High School, will also receive cash prizes and recognition at the Warsaw Breakfast Optimist Club Wednesday, March 27.

The club meets at the Shrine Building at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds with breakfast at 6:45 a.m. and the meeting from 7-8 a.m. Guests are welcome.

The Warsaw Breakfast Opti-

mist Club has been participating in the Optimist Essay Contest for four years and has been active in the community since 1958. Other programs and service projects the club is involved in include the Oratorical Contest, which will be held Sunday, March 24. The application and details for that contest can be found at warsawoptimist. org.

Optimist International is one of the world’s largest service club organizations with 80,000 adult and youth members in 2,500 clubs in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, Mexico and throughout the world. The club carries the mission statement: “By providing hope and positive vision, Optimists bring out the best in youth, our communities and ourselves.”

Optimists conduct service projects reaching more than 6 million young people each year.

To learn more about Optimist International, visit the organization’s website at optimist.org.

Food bank mobile food distribution in Warsaw March 14

The Food Bank of Northern Indiana has announced its mobile food distribution schedule for March.

Assorted food items are offered free of charge to those in need of food assistance. All items are pre-boxed and pre-bagged. Distributions are conducted on a firstcome, first-served basis, while supplies last, with one box or bag of food available per household.

Distribution events are drivethru. Recipients should remain in their vehicles and open their trunks to receive items. An area will be available for self-loading if your trunk does not open.

Citizens Concerned for the Homeless and CVS are helping to sponsor these distributions.

In Kosciusko County, the mo-

bile distribution will take place from 10 a.m. to noon Thursday, March 14, at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds, 1400 E. Smith St., Warsaw. The distribution is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and will serve 250 households.

Yakym announces district staff mobile office hours for March

Congressman Rudy Yakym announced the following dates, times, and locations his office will be holding mobile staff office hours in March throughout Indiana’s Second District. Mobile office hours will allow for Yakym’s staff to assist constituents with casework questions.

Elkhart County

Goshen Chamber of Commerce, 232 S. Main St., Goshen, 1:30-3 p.m. Thursday, March 14.

Nappanee City Hall, 300 W. Lincoln St., Nappanee, 10-11:30 a.m.

Wednesday, March 20.

Kosciusko County

Etna Green Town Hall, 106 S. Walnut St., Etna Green, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursday, March 14.

Warsaw City Hall, 102 S. Buffalo St., Warsaw, 10-11:30 a.m.

Wednesday, March 27.

Wabash County

Wabash City Hall, 202 S. Wabash St., Wabash, 10–11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 21.

North Manchester Public Library, 405 N. Market St., North Manchester, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Friday, March 8.

CREATE YOUR OWN MASTERPIECE — Create a Bob Ross-style canvas oil painting during a class set for April 19 in Warsaw. Photo provided by Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department.