the Paper - Kosciusko County Edition - June 14, 2023

Nine years ago, Jeff Stillson put into motion a vision he had for his hometown: to bring colorful art to the streets of Nappanee.

What began as a personal project for this multimedia artist has become part of the grander design for the Elkhart County city. Located on Oakland Avenue is the half-mile long “Art Path” which currently features approximately 130 sculptures designed by local artists. The sculptures all had a turn to grace the sidewalks of downtown Nappanee before being retired to the Art Path.

Stillson’s initial sculpture project involved large half apples, each around 3 feet tall and uniquely painted by a local artist to represent the apple’s sponsoring business or individual donor. His vision came from similar projects that had been appearing in much larger cities, utilizing objects that were representative of their particular locale.

The apples spent four years as part of the downtown landscape before Stillson and others in the community began wondering, “What’s next?”

He was approached by Nappanee Mayor Phil Jenkins, who proposed the idea of an arts commission for the city, from which the Nappanee Arts Council soon became a reality. Since its inception, the council has been busy making Nappanee an arts-friendly community.

The Nappanee Arts Center, managed by Stillson, became a physical manifestation of the council’s collective vision, offering a place for artists of all ages and abilities to create, using a multitude of mediums.

The other thing the council did was to further Stillson’s original apple sculpture plan with an annual replacement of the public display. Since the apples, there have been six themed displays of sculptures, all sponsored by local individuals, businesses and corporations and created by area artists. The projects receive no taxpayer money and are completely sustained through donations, contributions and revenue garnered through sales and classes that take place at the Nappanee Arts Center.

For each installation, the artists are given a theme, from which they are free to create a sculpture as they see fit. Since the original apples, the themes have included “Flower Gardens,” “Junkyard Dogs,” “Woodland Creatures,” “Tour de Nappanee” and “Love is in the Air.” The display that currently dots the sidewalks is “The Touch of a Butterfly,” which will remain in place until September, when it will be moved to the Art Path for permanent display. It will be replaced by a new project, “Outta this World,” which will feature 19 original works currently being created by the artists.

Last month, the arts council officially installed “Nappanee’s 100th Sculpture,” which sits on the south end

of the Art Path, just outside its arched entrance. While it was not the 100th sculpture installed in the walk, it was commissioned and designed prior to the last set of sculptures being moved to the Art Path. The centennial work was a collaborative creation by Stillson and Jennifer Tompos and includes a waterfall and butterfly.

Stillson’s plan is for the Art Walk to become a regional destination for appreciators of art. Visitors can walk the paved path, enjoying each of the seven pods of art projects. As future displays are retired from their downtown locations, they will be moved on to the Art Path, creating an even larger display for people to enjoy.

“We’ve seen foot traffic in the area grow threefold since we installed the Art Path,” said Stillson. “We see it as a

vitality project for the city. We’re working with the Elkhart County Convention and Visitors Bureau to advocate for us as a destination for visitors to the area.”

Stillson also gave credit to the Community Foundation of Elkhart County for providing matching grants for each pod of sculptures. Without its support, Stillson said the Art Path would not be possible.

This fall, the Nappanee Arts Council will hold its second annual “Trails and Treats” event to highlight the Art Path. A date has not yet been finalized, but the event will once again feature food, entertainment and fun. Last year’s event drew more than 1,500 people to the Art Path, and this year Stillson anticipates an even larger gathering.

K NOW Y OUR N EIGHBOR

Coach sees young people as an important part of her world

“I love kids,” stated Brittany Lucas, Etna Green. “They’re an important part of my world. They also keep me young.

“When I heard that Bobbi Tevis, the coach who founded the K County Roller Derby junior team, was retiring, I didn’t want to see a whole group of young people displaced and hurting. I decided

to take over as coach. It’s now my passion.”

Lucas has always loved roller skating. “Every Friday night my dad took me and my siblings to Eastlake roller rink in Warsaw.”

She started her own roller derby career skating on the adult team, Lake City Roller Dolls. “When I was skating at Eastlake in Warsaw, the Roller Dolls showed up with a banner. I went to a practice that following Tuesday and never

turned back.

“I adopted the handle Buckwyld Barbie, skating with the Roller Dolls until they folded. Now I’m part of the adult co-ed team, Fort Wayne Roller Derby. I’ve been skating in the adult league for 12 years.”

She’s been coaching the junior league, K County Roller Derby, for four years. “My two sons Noah and Eli are also on the team. Eli, 17, has competed for six years. This will be his last year in the junior league.

“Thirteen-year-old Noah has been involved for three years. My nephew is also part of our team.” Lucas’ sister competed in the adult league for 10 years. “I guess it’s a family sport,” she added.

“There are so many kids who don’t fit into the cookie cutter world. But we accept anyone. We have some kids who are super popular. And then there are the kids who are really shy in most social circles. I love watching the shy ones get involved and come out of their shell. Also, there are no size requirements. We work with kids of all heights and weights.”

The kids work together on projects. “We’ve helped friends with their Christmas and bills. We’ve also had yard sales and bake sales to raise money for our team. It’s really a community.”

Lucas said the old roller derby style of women playing rough-andtumble may have been entertaining in old videos of the game. But now it’s more of a sport. “We build athletes, increasing their strength, coordination and confidence. There’s also a team camaraderie that develops close friendships.”

There are four blockers and one jammer on each team. The jammer tries to get through the pack of blockers, and they get a point for each blocker they successfully pass. Although the blockers are not allowed to use their forearms, they can become quite intimidating with their

shoulders, hips and buttocks.

“Yes, we have a few scrapes and bruises on the team. But, actually, playing is a lot of fun. It certainly gives the kids a place to call home.”

Lucas invites kids to come and try out roller derby at Eastlake at 10 a.m. Sundays. “We’ll supply the gear and even teach

them to skate.”

She’s the production manager for Kitchens to Go, Etna Green. She and her husband Michael have been together 20 years. The family has two dogs and two cats. Lucas loves photography and is involved in wedding and event planning.

Extension offering program on mindfulness

Everyone, especially elders, should learn the definition of mindfulness and how the different types of mindfulness techniques can be beneficial as we age. This program will cover the implementation process of mindfulness and how it can improve your brain and heart health.

Emily Christ, Purdue University Extension Educator in Health & Human Sciences in Elkhart County will present this free program at 1 p.m. Thursday, June 29, at the Owls Club, 2715 E. Jackson Blvd., Elkhart.

The Owls Club is a private, community organization that exists to help aging adults in Elkhart County and surrounding communities thrive. To learn more and sign up for a free membership to register for upcoming programs, call the Owls Club at (574) 336-2652.

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 June 15.

APC approves Eastfield’s final plat in Milford

One case was denied and others approved at the regular meeting of the Kosciusko County Area Plan Commission Wednesday, June 7.

A final plat for phase one of the Eastfield subdivision in Milford was approved. The developer requested a surety bond of $359,886.75.

“We are under construction now,” said Tim Saylor of Miller East LLC, the developer of the project.

Now that the developer has a surety bond, permits for the new homes can begin to be pulled as soon as possible.

Edd Allen’s petition for an appeal was denied. He was requesting to amend self-imposed restrictive covenants associated to the rezoning request to originally rezone the property in question to commercial and, as amended through previous cases, by allowing modular homes sales and display as shown on the submitted

site plan.

The property is located on the west side of SR 13, south of CR 400 North in Tippecanoe Township.

Allen’s attorney, Steve Snyder, said a traffic study was recently conducted. The results of the study noted the intersection is a safety risk. Snyder argued there’s not enough traffic to make it a safety issue.

“The site plan is also well constructed,” Snyder mentioned.

“I have safety concerns,” said board member Mike Kissinger, adding,“and so does the traffic engineer.”

While the county would not be liable or face a lawsuit if something did happen at the intersection, the board decided it was too risky for the public to be approved.

After considerable discussion, the board denied Allen’s request.

A petition for Ransbottom Family Farms, for a 41-lot residential subdivision, was approved. Derrick Ransbottom, who was at the

Kosciusko County Special Olympics plans 50th birthday party

Kosciusko County Special Olympics is celebrating its 50th birthday with an evening of food and entertainment in August that will serve as a fundraiser for the nonprofit group.

The event is set for 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 24, at Tippy Creek Winery, 5920 N. 200E, Leesburg.

Twisted Tiki Food Truck will provide the meal, with a menu that includes Puerto Rican chicken and rice with queso blanco, shrimp tacos or an American burger with a side of french fries, fried plantains or Hawaiian macaroni salad, along with birthday cake and cupcakes.

Big Dawg Variety Show will provide the entertainment.

The entry fee is $5, and the meal will cost $12.

Sponsorships are being accepted for tables of six, including a gold-level sponsorship for $500 (six meals, two bottles of wine), silver-level for $400 (six meals, one bottle of one) and bronze-level for $300 (six meals).

Commemorative T-shirts also will be sold.

Special Olympics is a nonprofit organization that uses sports, health, education and leadership programs to target discrimination against people with intellectual disabilities and to help empower them to lead active healthy and fulfilling lives.

Becky Walls, the county coor-

dinator for Special Olympics, has been part of the program since its inception in 1973. Walls’ mother, Maxine Burcham, initially started the program, and Walls has been the county coordinator since 1999.

For information about sponsorships, contact Walls at sokcbwalls@ aol.com or call (574) 265-6569.

meeting with his brother, Dan, requested preliminary plat approval for a residential development on a 20.6-acre tract of land. Some neighbors, who live nearby, said they opposed the plan. Most were concerned with more traffic.

One man stated there is “only one way in and one way out” citing he’s concerned with emergency vehicle access.

“I’m not against it but my only concern is the increase in traffic,” said Thelma Clark, who has lived at nearby Forest Glen since 1984.

The property is located on the north side of Stanton Road, east of Teeple Avenue in Plain Township.

A final plat for Hardy Acres, a two-lot agriculture II subdivision, was approved. The property is located on a 3.27 acre tract of ground.

The property, owned by Tom Hardy, is located on CR 700E in the southeast corner of the county. Hardy said he wants to add a couple of homes.

A vacation of a property was requested by Blake Palmer and it was approved. He is vacating a 16-foot alley on Old Road 30 in Atwood. The matter will go before the county commissioners at 9:15 a.m. June 20.

The county recently received the Hoosier Planning Award, said Matt Sandy, APC director. The award is for an Outstanding Comprehensive Planning for the Forward Kosciusko County Comprehensive Plan. The Indiana Chapter of the American Planning Association presented the honor to the county, K21 Health Foundation and Kosciusko County Community Foundation.

The next meeting is at 1 p.m. July 5.

Thursday,

Good Neighbors

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

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

This column will now run every other week.

—o—

Queen size mattress

Good neighbors: Free queen size mattress and matching box springs. Very clean. Pick up only, no delivery. Milford. Call (574) 658-4090 and leave a message.

Female husky

Good neighbors: Looking for a nice forever home for a female husky. She’s very good with children and other dogs, about 2 1/2 years old and fully AKC registered. If you’re interested, please contact me at (574) 544-9669.

New questions

Magazines — Looking for Grit and/or Mother Earth News magazines. Call (574) 646-2022 and leave a message.

Bald eagle — I’m looking for a bald eagle that was shot and taxidermied in the late 1950s. It was donated to the old elementary school in New Paris (science department). The school closed and the eagle disappeared. Any information would be appreciated. Call (260) 215-1445.

Trasan cleaning cloths — I am looking for someone who is selling Trasan cleaning cloths. Call (574) 862-1917, ext. 142.

Grain bin — Does anyone have a grain bin that you don’t want anymore and want it out of your way? Call (574) 354-3432.

Find diversity in children’s literature

How often have you heard the word “diversity” lately?

People can be diverse in their beliefs, backgrounds and experiences. Diversity can be found in socioeconomic status, location (urban or rural) and lifestyle. It has been deemed important that diversity be found in media projects, in education at all levels, and, of course, in children’s books.

You don’t have to look far to find diverse books in children’s services at WCPL. I was perusing the picture books yesterday, and found some pretty wonderful examples of our summer reading program theme, “All Together Now.”

I think my favorite is “A Small Kindness” by Stacy McAnulty and illustrated by Wendy Leach. The book starts in white and shades of brown and one child is in color. When she smiles at Lucas, her classmate, who uses a walker, begins to take on color as well.

When he says hello to a classmate,

she begins to “come alive.” The book continues until all of the students in the class, the teacher, and the custodian are in full rainbow hues. It follows a natural progression and is sweet but not preachy.

Patricia Polacco’s “Chicken Sunday” and “Holes in the Sky” are autobiographical stories about Jewish-Irish “Trisha’s” childhood in Oakland, Calif. She was enveloped into a black family whose matriarch, Miss Eula, showed love to everyone in the neighborhood.

The books are full of warmth and love. “Everything in Its Place: A Story of Books and Belonging,” a picture book by Pauline David-Sax, brings together a shy young girl, a library, a café and a group of female motorcyclists. You’ll have to check it out to see how everything comes together and makes Nicky’s life richer.

Two more picture books fitting our theme are “I Just Like You” by Suzanne Bloom and “Ride, Roll, Run: Time for Fun” by Valerie Bolling. In them, groups of children or animals, who are different from each other, and have different

strengths and likes, find joy in being together. Come in to the library, and let’s do the same.

Be sure you’re signed up for our all-ages summer reading challenge and start or continue reading. Our website can be found at warsawlibrary.org. We are located at 310 E. Main St., Warsaw, and the phone number is (574) 267-6011.

Fax 800-886-3796

Out-Of-County: Phone 1-800-733-4111 OFFICE HOURS: 8:00-5:00 Monday Thru Friday www.thepapersonline.com

‘the PAPER’ reserves the right to refuse for publication any advertising that is considered offensive, misleading or detrimental to the public, the newspaper or another advertiser and to edit advertising at its discretion.

Publisher, Ron Baumgartner rbaumgartner@the-papers.com

Business Manager, Annette Weaver .................aweaver@the-papers.com

Editor-In-Chief, Deb Patterson dpatterson@the-papers.com

Editor, Lauren Zeugner ...........................lzeugner@the-papers.com

Warsaw Office Manager, Mary Beth Spalding ..........warsaw@the-papers.com

Director Of Marketing, Steve Meadows smeadows@the-papers.com

Advertising Manager, Bill Hays .......................bhays@the-papers.com

Advertising Representative, Carl Lauster clauster@the-papers.com

Advertising Representative, Susan Stump sstump@the-papers.com

Circulation Manager, Jerry Long jlong@the-papers.com

Commercial Printing Sales Representative Rodger Salinas .............................rsalinas@the-papers.com Commercial Printing Customer Service Tina Carson tcarson@the-papers.com Rich Krygowski ...........................rkrygowski@the-papers.com

Documentary explores family, community impact of addiction crisis

Glory Girl Productions, in collaboration with Living in Transition Effectively, Kosciusko County on Drug Education and Anthem, will present a screening of the award-winning documentary, “The Addict’s Wake,” to the community at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 20, at 210 W. Catherine St., Milford.

Admission is free, so tickets are not necessary.

In the wake of the opioid crisis and the emergence of deadly fentanyl pouring into the United States, the impact of drug addiction rages on, destroying communities and families.

The film focuses on the people of one small town who, like those in so many communities across the nation, have felt the ripple effect of the addiction crisis in every corner of their county.

The feature-length film seeks

to link communities to take action and find a pathway to hope and recovery.

“This film is a clarion call for community stakeholders to unite resources and ideologies to fight back against substance-use disorder at a grassroots level,” said film producer, Lisa Hall, president of Glory Girl Productions.

“It takes you alongside a community searching for hope and solutions on the long journey from addiction to recovery.”

With meth, heroin, opioid addiction and deadly fentanyl, fatal overdoses were up 30 percent across the nation last year.

“While this film is set in a small community of Brown County, it’s the story of almost every county –— small, rural, large, urban and inner city — in the United States,” said Hall. “And this crisis hits ev-

ery aspect of our society.”

The documentary shares interviews and perspectives not only from individuals and families impacted, but teachers, law enforcement, courts, neuroscience professionals and faith-based programs.

“The Addict’s Wake” has recently been selected to air on more than 300 public broadcasting stations throughout the country.

It has earned acclaim with the Audience Choice Award at the Heartland International Film Festival, in addition to winning the Sedona International Film Festival’s Independent Spirit Award.

The film has also spurred grant investment to create a shorter film that can be used in classrooms to help educate students and teachers about the impact of substance abuse disorder.

Mentone Egg Festival ends another year

After three days of activities, the Mentone Egg Festival came to a close Saturday evening, June 3.

The final day of activities concluded today, Saturday, June 3, with the annual parade, crowning of Miss Chick and Mr. Rooster and the finale of the evening with the crowning of the 2023 Miss Mentone Egg Festival.

Lucas Surface and Tinley Cody followed in the footsteps of their parents, Ken Surface and Carissa Cody, when they were named the 2023 Mr. Rooster and Miss Check winners. Ken Surface and Carissa Cody, held those titles in the mid to late 1990s. Now their children, who are cousins, have earned that same title.

The two rode on the Surface family float, which followed this year’s theme “Celebrating Family and Food.” The float won the Kid Division parade entry trophy. The family’s entry focused on Mentone’s Family Farms Feed America, with Lucas Surface riding a tractor in a corn field and his cousin, Tinley, dressed as a chick, hatching from an egg.

Other parade winners included:

Color guard — American Legion Post 49

Miscellaneous — 2022 Miss Chick and Mr. Rooster

Theme Float — JD Celebrating outdoors and S’Mores with Family

Marching — Tippecanoe Valley High School and Junior High School Cheerleaders

rial Public Library

Farm Equipment — Mellott & Son’s Inc., Farmall tractors

This year’s parade included approximately 34 units, including police, fire and EMS units from Mentone and Silver Lake police departments, Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, Seward Township, Mentone, Four-Way Ambulance Service, Etna Township, Burket Township, Henry Township, Atwood, and TIppecanoe.

There were plenty of tractors and a few unique entries of vehicles in the parade.

The parade ended with the Tippecanoe Valley Guard.

The day’s events also included an egg toss, barbecue contest, 3-on-3 basketball contests, a cake walk and cute baby contest.

Earlier in the week there was a car show, concert, flea markets, crafts and food vendors. Inflatables and games were also held for the kids.

Local students awarded degrees

The following local students were awarded degrees at their respective colleges/universities: Wilkes University

Millersburg — Emily Bowman, bachelor of science in nursing Goshen College

Millersburg — Lydia Mae Holsopple, bachelor’s, nursing, cum laude

New Paris — Emma Yoder Bontrager, bachelor’s, accounting with a minor in business, summa cum laude

Antique vehicle — Bell Memo-

COUPON PLU #1099 Senior Saving Day for our friends over 60! Thursday, June 15, 2023 Senior Citizens Receive 5% Discount With This Coupon Syracuse - North Webster Locations Does not include beer, wine, cigarettes, gift cards or lottery.

University Of Nebraska-Lincoln

GO KART BELTS

PL BELTS Lawn, Garden, Farm & Industrial HYDRAULIC HOSE Couplings & Adapters Your Job Site Or In Our Shop INDUSTRIAL HOSE LP HOSE SHEAVES & PULLEYS SERVICE ELECTRIC 310 E. Market Street Warsaw, IN 46580 574-267-7522 www.beltpalace.com

Sunday JUNE 18 1-8pm

Monday JUNE 19 CLOSED

Tuesday JUNE 20 CLOSED

Wednesday JUNE 21 CLOSED

Thursday JUNE 22 4-8pm

Friday JUNE 23 4-8pm Premier Sponsor Gold Sponsors $8.00 In Advance or Online $10.00 At the Door 10 00 Children Under 18 FREE baec.com/events

2023 Saturday JUNE 24 1-8pm

Sunday JUNE 25 1-8pm

150 YEARS

SESQUICENTENNIAL

Claypool To Celebrate Sesquicentennial

Claypool is gearing up for the celebration of their sesquicentennial on June 16-17.

There are still several open registrations for events.

• Forms for the kid’s parade are available for pick-up at the post office and on the People of Claypool Facebook page. No motorized bikes are permitted.

• Registration for the 5K is open until 8 a.m. June 17. A check is your registration and can be made out to “Claypool Festival.”

Marge and Janet Warren have been named the parade marshals for the event. Marge and Janet are sister-in-laws whose husbands were business partners in Warren Brothers Drywall, now in its fourth generation of the Warren family. These two women were chosen in order to honor their significant contribution to the planning of the Claypool centennial 50 years ago.

The parade on Saturday, June 17, is open to participation from the public and is themed “Yesteryear.”

Line-up will be at 10 a.m. at Claypool Elementary School. The sign-up sheets for the parade are available on the People of Claypool Facebook page, as well as the post office and Someplace Else Saloon.

All sign-up sheets must be re-

turned to Ben Stage, 105 N. Lindsay St., Claypool; or Someplace Else Saloon, 1085 Main St., Claypool.

There will be a few different food options at the sesquicentennial. From 7-10 a.m. Saturday, June 17, there will be a fireman’s breakfast. At noon on Saturday, there will be a hot dog, chips and water lunch, free with donation, at Lions Park. There will also be smoked chicken for sale by Dave Ousley of Shooting Star Farm. The Boy Scouts will also be serving their mouse ears at the Lions Building during the day on Saturday.

On Saturday, there will be several contests available for kids to participate in with the chance to win prizes.

• Baby Crawl: for ages six months to 2

• Bouncy Ball Race: divided by ages 3-6, with each age having their own category

• Three-Legged Race: categories based on ages 7 and 8; 9 and 10; and 11 and 12

• Spoon Race: Ages 3-6; 7-10; 11-13

• Peanut Spit: There will be an under 10 category and an over 10 years old category.

• Water Balloons: teams of two of any age

• Frozen T-Shirt: teams of two of any age

There is also a possibility of a tyke bike race if someone in the community will volunteer one

of their tyke bikes. If someone wishes to volunteer, contact morrisellen43@gmail.com.

The sesquicentennial will also be hosting a car show and a tractor show, where the winners will receive a prize.

Closing out the celebrations will be two bands, Gunslinger and Highway 30.

A complete list of events for both days can be found below: Friday, June 16:

• 4-8 p.m. Ice Cream Social hosted by Free Will Baptist

• 4-8 p.m. Historical Displays will be set up at the United Methodist Church

• 6 p.m. Kid’s parade, line up at 5 p.m. at Full Gospel Tabernacle parking lot at North and Main Streets.

• 7 p.m. Awards following the parade at the Judge’s stand.

• Following the parade awards, there will be a time capsule burial ceremony.

• Kiddie Tunes, 60’s music and Rock ‘n Roll will be playing after the parade awards until 8 p.m. Saturday, June 17:

• 7-10 a.m. Fireman’s Breakfast hosted at the fire station

• 8 a.m. 5K Run

• 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Historical Display at United Methodist Church

• 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Vendors at the corner of Calhoun and Main Streets.

• 11 a.m. Parade

• Noon Parade winners announced

• 1 p.m. Corn Hole Contest at the Bank, $10 entry fee

• 1 p.m. Car Show on Main Street

• 1 p.m. Tractor Show on Railroad Street

• 1 p.m. Kid’s games at Lions Park

• 2 p.m. Kid’s Contest held at Lions Park

• 2-6 p.m. Gunslinger opening for Highway 30

Warrens chosen as parade marshals for Sesquicentennial

Janet and Marge Warren have been selected as the parade marshals for Claypool’s sesquicentennial.

Janet and Marge are sister-inlaws who were married to brothers who owned a dry-walling business together in Claypool, and is now in its fourth generation of family owners. Currently, it is one of two remaining businesses which existed at the centennial celebration 50 years ago.

Janet Warren moved to Claypool at the age of 8 and has lived on the same street, Section Street, for 83 years.

Claypool has been a part of every aspect of her life. At the age of 14, Janet began working at the Claypool drugstore as a soda jerk. When she went to open her first bank account,

it was at the People’s Bank of Claypool. She went on to work at the Claypool United States Post Office, retiring after 25 years. She and her late husband, Layne, raised their three children in Claypool.

Janet Warren has also been an integral part of her church in Claypool, attending multiple Lions eye mission trips to foreign countries. She also has volunteered countless hours at the food pantry as well as the Red Cross.

She is known by her community as the noodle lady because she delivers cookies and all kinds of baked goods to new neighbors and sick neighbors alike.

Marge Warren has been a Claypool citizen since 1950. Claypool is where she and her late husband, Bob, raised their four children.

Marge Warren tutored many grade school children at Claypool Elementary School over the years. After raising her family, She worked at the Kosciusko County Assessors’ Office for over 20 years before retiring. She is known in the community for being able to make people laugh.

The ladies are always involved in their community and very passionate about Claypool. They both served diligently on the committee for the 1973 Claypool centennial.

Other notable involvements these women are attributed to include:

• Being members of the Happy Homemakers club.

• Starting the Claypool Fire Department women’s auxiliary.

• Establishing the first kindergarten class in Claypool, located where the Full Gospel Tabernacle Church now stands.

• Organizing the first town cleanup.

• Orchestrating the first veterinarian clinic to open in Claypool with the help of Dr. Sasso.

Both are incredibly influential women who are constantly pouring into their community, creating a lasting impact on the town of Claypool.

The ladies both still reside in Claypool at the ages of 91 and 92.

CLAYPOOL 150 YEARS SESQUICENTENNIAL

Planning the Sesquicentennial

The planning of the Claypool sesquicentennial has been in the works for the last year, with the planning committee meeting diligently on the second Saturday of every month.

Donna Morris, one of the women leading this committee, discussed the ins and outs of planning such a monumental event for the community.

Morris moved to Claypool when she was a sophomore in high school and has lived there ever since. In December of 1960, Don and Donna eloped and have been married for almost 63 years. They raised their two boys, Dale and Dean, in Claypool. Don and Donna have also attended Claypool United Methodist Church since they were married.

Morris mentioned her inspirations for putting in the time and effort to plan this event came from the two parade marshals selected, Janet and Marge Warren. She said the two women are incredibly influential in the community, but especially when it came to planning the Claypool centennial event 50 years ago. One particularly intriguing project Marge Warren contributed to the event was organizing a historical book about the

last 100 years of Claypool. Donna has been able to use this as a tool in the planning process, as well as add to it.

When asked her favorite part of the planning process, Warren said she loved experiencing the camaraderie of Claypool coming together to plan such a historically significant event. She spoke about how encouraging it was to meet with people of all ages to pull this event together, and how there were many new people and ideas that helped plan that impacted the event for the better.

She also spoke of the significant church involvement that happened in order for everything to come together. Morris said the planning process really showed how the people of Claypool could work together and bring their individual strengths to planning this event.

When asked what made her the most excited when planning, Morris said seeing all of their labors and commitment come to fruition at the event would be her favorite aspect. She also said she “could not wait to see everyone enjoying themselves and reminiscing, being a witness to the Claypool sesquicentennial bringing people back to Claypool, who grew up here, to celebrate.”

JUNE 16 & 17, 2023

Schedule of Events

OBITUARIES

Mauricio T. Abney

Mauricio Thomas “Billy” Abney, 15, North Manchester, died June 1, 2023.

He was born Jan. 21, 2008.

Surviving are his grandparents, Al and Kathy Page, North Manchester; mother, Ronzo Crumly, North Manchester; sister, Abigail Anderson, North Manchester; three uncles; four aunts; a great-aunt; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

A celebration of life was held June 8 at McKee Mortuary, North Manchester.

Dr. Richard L. Carman

Dr. Richard Lee “Doc” Carman, 88, Winona Lake, died June 5, 2023.

He was born Dec. 29, 1934. On May 14, 1976, he married Phyllis Dilley Laughner; she survives.

He is also survived by a son, Chris Carman; four grandchildren; a brother, Bill Carman; two nephews; and three nieces.

Services were held June 10 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw. Interment was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.

Gary L. Clemons

Gary L. Clemons, 75, Ligonier, died March 13, 2023.

He was born June 1, 1947.

He is survived by his wife, Sherry, Ligonier; children, Glenda Kinzer and Kevin Clemons, both of Londonderry, Ohio, and Kim Cottrill, Chillicothe, Ohio; siblings, Ed Clemons, Paul Clemons and Katie Clemons, all of McArthur, Ohio, Steve Clemons and Sandy Craft, both of Wellston, Ohio, and Carolyn Clemons Whitside, Coalton, Ohio; 11 grandchildren; 11 greatgrandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In keeping with Gary’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life service was held June 10 at Salem Community Church in Wilmot. Yeager Funeral Home, Ligonier, was in charge of arrangements.

Carolyn Sue Coyle

Carolyn Sue Coyle, 71, rural Pierceton, died at 10:16 p.m. June 4, 2023.

She was born Nov. 24, 1951. On March 26, 1976, she married Richard

A. Coyle; he survives. Also surviving are her children, Branden L. Truman, Syracuse, Tina M. Baker, Columbia City, and Angela C. Bradley, Nashville, Tenn.; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; a sister, Kaye Fisher, Columbia City; and a sister-in-law, Virginia Wright, Columbia City.

A memorial gathering will be held from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, June 24, at Columbia City Church of the Nazarene. Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City, is in charge of arrangements.

Kathleen Hall

Kathleen “Kathy” Hall, 71, Warsaw, died at 9:10 a.m. June 2, 2023.

She was born July 24, 1951. On March 3, 1972, she married Frank Perry, who preceded her in death Sept. 15, 1972. On Sept. 26, 1975, she married Dexter Hall, who preceded her in death June 11, 2000.

She is survived by her father, German Sparks, Warsaw; sons, Greg Perry, Burket, and Daniel Olivo, Goshen; daughter, Aleisha Penn, Warsaw; five grandchildren; a great-grandson; and a sister, Christine Fannin, Rochester. Services were held June 6 at Home Church, Warsaw. A private graveside service will take place at a later date at Pleasant Grove Cemetery, Warsaw.

Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Tina Hay

Tina Hay, 57, Warsaw, died June 5, 2023.

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

Rellie May Henson

Rellie May Henson, 80, Warsaw, died at 10:08 a.m. June 6, 2023.

She was born Jan. 3, 1943. On May 20, 1962, she married Charlie Ray Henson Sr. He preceded her in death Feb. 11, 2021.

She is survived by a daughter, Sherry Durflinger, Ligonier; sons, Charlie Henson Jr., Texas, and Kevin Henson, Indiana; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a sister, Vivian Cooper, Florida.

Rellie’s life will be celebrated privately. Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home,

Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Larry L. Hilliard Jr.

Larry L. Hilliard Jr., 52, Warsaw, died June 2, 2023.

He was born July 21, 1970.

Private services will be held. Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Warsaw was in charge of arrangements.

Ronald E. Huffman

Ronald “Satch” Eugene Huffman, 72, rural Macy, died May 29, 2023.

He was born Feb. 9, 1951. On Jan. 25, 1977, he married Doris A. Monroe Freese. She preceded him in death May 6, 2020.

Surviving are his siblings, Tom Huffman, Rochester, Bonnie Fields, Akron, and Max Huffman, Mentone; a daughter; and three stepchildren. Following his wishes, no services will be held. Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron, was in charge of arrangements.

Keith Lynn Huffman

Keith Lynn Huffman, 79, South Haven, Mich., died May 27, 2023.

He was born in 1943.

He survived by his three daughters, Gretchen Kellems, Syracuse; Heidi (Turner) Watson, Fort Wayne; and Heather (Salim) Cain, Bend, Ore.; and two grandchildren.

There will be no formal services, per his wishes.

Linda L. Keeven

Linda L. Keeven, 72, Warsaw, died June 2, 2023.

She was born Jan. 27, 1951.

She is survived by her husband, Richard D. Keeven, Warsaw; son, Dr. David Keeven, Louisville, Ky.; four grandchildren; brother, Douglas VanderKolk, Spotsylvania, Va.; and sister, Janet Eichenberg, Spotsylvania, Va.

She will be buried privately at Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw. Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Warsaw was in charge of arrangements.

Larry Kinsey

Larry Kinsey, 86, North Webster, died June 6, 2023.

He was born July 14, 1936. On Sept. 6, 1969, he married Linda Neidermeyer; she survives.

He is also survived by a daughter, Ronda Morgan, Syracuse; two grandchildren; a sister, Cynthia Hamilton, Tennessee; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Services were held June 13 at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse. Burial was in North Webster Cemetery-Mock Addition.

James Arthur Malcolm

James Arthur “Jim” Malcolm, 83, North Manchester, formerly of Auburn, died June 8, 2023.

He was born Oct. 23, 1939. On Nov. 23, 1962, he married Norma Johnson; she survives.

He is also survived by a son, Jeff Malcolm, Mishawaka; daughters, Tracey Myers, North Manchester, and Mary Zumbaugh, Fort Wayne; sister, Norma Hull, Grabill; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren with one on the way.

A funeral mass was held June 12 at St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church, North Manchester. A graveside service followed at Immaculate Conception Catholic Cemetery, Auburn. McKee Mortuary, North Manchester, was in charge of arrangements.

James A. Maurer

James A. Maurer, 88, Bourbon, died June 1, 2023.

He was born June 4, 1934. On June 20, 1954, he married Maryanne Burkett, who preceded him in death Sept. 11, 2006. On Nov. 2, 2008, he married Janet Davenport, who preceded him in death Jan. 20, 2019.

Surviving are daughters, Karen Maurer, Warsaw, Julia Hedington, Bourbon, and Lora Beeson, Warsaw; four grandchildren; and 10 greatgrandchildren.

Graveside services were held June 10 at Richland Center Cemetery. Deaton-Clemens Funeral Home, Bourbon, was in charge of arrangements.

Daniel McKibbin

Daniel McKibbin, 60, Millersburg, died May 31, 2023.

He was born Aug. 26, 1962.

Surviving are his children, Mindy McKibbin, New Paris, Braden Wilmoth, Brandi Kendall and Skylar Wilmoth, all of Anderson; siblings, Laurie Edwards, Millersburg, John McKibbin, Elkhart, and Michelle McKibbin, Ligonier; several grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Burial will take place with a short graveside service at 1 p.m. Friday, June 16, at Eldridge Cemetery, 59989 E. County Line Road, Middlebury. The family will hold a celebration of life at noon Saturday, June 17, at Dan’s home, 215 E. Washington St., Millersburg. Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Syracuse is in charge of arrangements.

Joel Mellinger

Joel Mellinger, 85, Syracuse, died June 6, 2023.

Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services-Owen Chapel of Syracuse.

David Melton

David Melton, 83, Warsaw, died June 5, 2023.

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

Noma Jean Miller

Noma Jean Miller, 92, Nappanee, died at 8:45 p.m. June 5, 2023.

She was born July 5, 1930. On May 28, 1949, she married Jackie L. Miller. He preceded her in death Oct. 27, 2018.

She is survived by a daughter, Ronda Klotz, Nappanee; daughter-inlaw, Peggy Miller, Goshen; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandchild and one expected in August 2023; and a sister, Betty Yoder, Elkhart.

Services were held June 10 at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee. Burial was in Union Center Cemetery.

Walter Noffsinger

Walter Noffsinger, 90, formerly of

Syracuse, died June 2, 2023.

Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services-Owen Chapel of Syracuse.

Sharlene F. Nusbaum

Sharlene F. Nusbaum, 83, Wakarusa, died at 8:18 a.m. June 3, 2023.

She was born Oct. 15, 1939. On July 27, 1958, she married Lamar Nusbaum; he survives.

She is also survived by a daughter, Shelia Cooper, Popular Bluffs, Mo.; a son, Rod Nusbaum, Wakarusa; four granddaughters; a great-grandson; a stepgreat-granddaughter; sisters, Carol Anglemyer, Nappanee, and Linda Sherman, Goshen; and a sister-inlaw, Stella Culp, Goshen.

Services were held June 7 at Rieth Rohrer Ehret Lienhart Funeral Home, Wakarusa. Burial was in Yellow Creek Cemetery.

Doris Rugs

Doris Rugs, 85, Warsaw, died at 3:39 p.m. June 6, 2023.

She was born April 8, 1938. On April 21, 1956, she married Gerald Anthony Rugs. He preceded her in death Nov. 23, 2014.

Surviving are daughters, Theresa Wilhite, Warsaw, Deborah Rugs, Ph.D., Lutz, Fla., and Kathleen Meeker, Warsaw; nine grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; three bonus kids; many nieces and nephews; her best friend, Ruth Whiteneck; brother, Bill Spears, El Paso, Texas; and sister, Shirley Spears, Chicago, Ill.

Services were held June 10 at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.

Eunice E. Sloan

Eunice E. Sloan, 92, Warsaw, died at 10:44 p.m. June 2, 2023.

She was born Nov. 16, 1930. On March 1, 1953, she married Roger Sloan, who preceded her in death in 2014.

She is survived by a daughter, Sue Hickman, Warsaw; a son, Roger C. Sloan Jr., Warsaw; four grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Services were held June 7 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.

Edward A. Watkins

Edward A. Watkins, 78, died June 3, 2023.

He was born Jan. 10, 1945.

He is survived by his daughter, Michelle Shupert; five grandchildren; a great-grandchild; sister, Connie Watkins; and two nephews.

There are no services at this time. Palmer Funeral Home-Lakeville Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Brian J. Weirich

Brian J. Weirich, 65, Millersburg, died June 7, 2023.

He was born Aug. 21, 1957. On Feb. 20, 1982, he married Lisa L. Lange; she survives.

He is also survived by a sister, Linda Weirich, Millersburg; his mother-in-law, Bonnie Lange, Goshen; a brother-in-law, Loren Lange, Goshen; a nephew; and a niece and her two daughters.

Visitation will be from 4 p.m. until the 6 p.m. memorial service Wednesday, June 14, at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen. Burial will take place at a later date at Brown Cemetery.

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: Joan Stoelting v. Anthony Anderson, $10,000

Firstsource Advantage LLC v. Billy Blair, $986.47

City of South Bend v. Timothy J. Bowen, $1,122.68

Turkey Creek Fire Territory v. Mark Koselke, $1,540.80

Hollar Dental Group v. Tessa R. Lozano, $805.55

Clay Fire Territory v. Dallas E. Maynard, $965.49

Snow and Sauerteig LLP v. Joshua Miller, $5,619.09

Chiphone Federal Credit Union v. Alexander Rios, $7,117.39

Warsaw Health System LLC d/b/a Kosciusko Community Hospital v. Brad Slusser, $1,749.28

Civil Collections

Kosciusko County

The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Chris Kehler presiding: Glenbrook Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Andrea L. Allen, $11,562.07

TGM Autumn Woods Inc. v. Trevor Bradley, $3,196.45

LVNV Funding LLC v. Ashley Carson a/k/a Ashley Hughes, $2,571.92; v. Tushar Dhar, $3,391.67

SAC Finance Inc. v. Joann L. Duncan, Robert A. Duncan, $12,588.62; v. James P. Grothaus, Tamera L. Soultz, $18,482.48

Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. Victor Howey, $3,271.08

Midland Credit Management Inc. v. Arissa Caudill, $754.32; v. William Jenkins, $1,402.49; v. Cody Sanford a/k/a Cody Juarez, $1,631.99

Credit Service International v. Daron R. Krichbaum, $2,176; v. Julia G. Radford, $1,360.28; v. Danny VanHoozer, $1,670.65; v. Deanna R. Wilson, $4,752.57

Capital One NA v. Jesus Lara, $1,712.30; v. Douglas J. Riebe, $1,810.48 Mortgage Foreclosures

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

Ruoff Mortgage Co. Inc. v. Michael D. Harris, Travis P. Harris, $148,012.76

Evictions

The following evictions have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Jaclyn Franks v. Samantha Burleson, $5,643

Briar Ridge Apartments v. Clayton M. Przewoznik, Michael D. Przewoznik, $8,000

BIRTHS

Gemma Joli Miller

Daniel and Laura (Miller) Miller, Ligonier, are the parents of a daughter, Gemma Joli, born at 11:52 p.m. June 2, 2023, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 8 pounds and was 20 inches long.

Maternal grandparents are Kenneth and Edna Miller, New Paris. Paternal grandparents are Perry and Wilma Miller, Shipshewana.

Gemma joins three siblings: Kailey, Brentlee and Aleah.

Miciah Lynn Bontrager

David and Brenda (Mullet) Bontrager, Shipshewana, are the parents of a son, Miciah Lynn, born at 12:56 a.m. June 6, 2023, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 9 pounds, 4.5 ounces, and was 20 1/2 inches long.

Micah John Borkholder

Steve and Julia (Slabaugh) Borkholder, New Paris, are the parents of a son, Micah John, born at 9:10 p.m. June 6, 2023. He weighed 8 pounds.

Superior Court III

The following fines for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: No valid driver’s license — Trevor G. Dreibelbis, Bourbon, $160.50; Harold D. Gibson, Warsaw, $160.50

Speeding — Nathan R. Sechrist, Claypool, $160.50; Jeff A. McNabb, Warsaw, $160.50; Laura K. Robinson, Huntington, $160.50; Luz G. Gomez, Warsaw, $160.50; Christian M. Burkholder, Warsaw, $160.50; Donovan I. Nieto, Warsaw, $160.50; Xavier W. Russell, Warsaw, $160.50

Failure to change lanes for authorized emergency vehicle — Paul E. Park, Warsaw, $160.50

Learner’s permit violation, operating a motor vehicle without financial responsibility — Jose L. Meyo Carrillo, Warsaw, $210.50

Failure to register — Laura F. Ploneda Valencia, North Manchester, $160.50

Disregarding an official traffic control device — Jeromy R. VanBlarcom, Syracuse, $160.50; Zachery N. Morris, Warsaw, $160.50

Violation of rule adopted by director (deer hunting/bagging rule)

— Darin L. Miller, Milford, $160

Unlawful possession of tobacco, e-liquid or electronic cigarette — Alexander Hubert, Warsaw, $160

Operating with expired plates — Daniel D. Woodrum, Milford, $160

Disregarding lighted signal — Parker C. Davenport, Warsaw, $160.50

Operating a motor vehicle without financial responsibility — Christine Blankenship, Warsaw, $185.50

Driving while suspended — Carlos A. Alvarez Ramirez, Nappanee, $185.50

Disregarding stop sign — Telishia

J. Sroufe, Warsaw, $160.50

Improper or no tail or plate light

— Steven D. Dunkel, Silver Lake, $185

Marriage Licenses

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

Ann Torpy:

Chickering — McQuade

Emily J. Chickering, 23, Winona Lake, and Mark McQuade, 22, Winona Lake

Farris — Manwaring

Kimberly K. Farris, 53, Warsaw, and Neil S. Manwaring, 53, Warsaw

Nyce — Kistler

Jill Nyce, 58, Milford, and Brian Kistler, 58, Milford Ruddell — Tucker

Jonathan A. Ruddell, 30, Warsaw, and Olivia Tucker, 27, Warsaw Coppes — Perry

Jeremy A. Coppes, 31, Warsaw, and

Lena D. Perry, 29, Warsaw

Petre — Shepherd

Heather Jena Petre, 34, Milford, and Jason L. Shepherd, 40, Milford Holst — Guild

Kati Kisti Anna Holst, 19, Warsaw, and Brady Michael Allen Guild, 19, Warsaw

Flores — Hernandez

Salome Flores, 47, Milford, and Rita

Marie Hernandez, 39, Milford

Borkholder — Kuhns

Andrew J. Borkholder, 22, Nappanee, and MaryAnn B. Kuhns, 21, Nappanee

Robinson — Strickland

Tatiana Robinson, 25, Warsaw, and James Strickland III, 26, Warsaw

Nolander — Jehl

Harper S. Nolander, 24, Winona Lake, and John M. Jehl, 24, Fort Wayne West — Stump

Emma Leilani West, 22, Silver Lake, and Carter D. Stump, 24, Wauseon, Ohio

Yeargean — Riley

Michael W. Yeargean, 56, Warsaw, and Christine E. Riley, 58, Warsaw Escutia — Cruz

Mayolo Nava Escutia, 56, Milford,

and Antonia Martinez Cruz, 41, Milford Cassel — Schuh

Eric L. Cassel, 26, Warsaw, and Kayla J. Schuh, 26, Warsaw Gabbard — Craft

Jack A. Gabbard, 24, Pierceton, and Sidney S. Craft, 21, Nappanee Simpson — Davis Braxton M. Simpson, 25, Pierceton, and Emily J. Davis, 21, Pierceton

Marriage Dissolutions

The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in the Kosciusko Superior Court: Klinge — Cheyenne K. Klinge, Milford, and Nathaniel J. Klinge, Kimmel. They were married Sept. 4, 2021, and separated Nov. 27, 2021. Two minor children. Bevins — Christi Bevins, Warsaw, and Craig Bevins, Warsaw. They were married Aug. 2, 2002, and separated May 31, 2023. No minor children.

Art in Action —

P UBLIC A UCTIONS

Cropland Auction

6 p.m. Thursday, June 15, Mt. Tabor Hall, 8424 N. 800W, Etna Green. Farm located at 7165 W. 1050N, Nappanee. 120 acres offered in eight tracts from 1.5 to 20 acres. More info online at metzgerauction.com.

Hagenmyer Farm Live Auction

6 p.m. Thursday, June 15, Nappanee. Farm land and potential building sites on 120 acres in eight tracts. bidmetzger.com.

Real Estate and Personal Property Live Auction

10 a.m. Saturday, June 17, at 14128 CR 38, Goshen. Four-plus acres include ranch home and outbuildings. Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, full basement, two-car garage, heated shop, pole barn and bank barn. Antiques, household, cargo trailer, ZTR mower, Hallmark ornaments, vintage toys. More information at metzgerauction.com.

Phillip Randall Personal Property Auction

10 a.m. Saturday, June 24, at 18

EMS B 28A Lane, Pierceton. Antique and household furniture and miscellaneous. See photos at auctionzip.com. Auctioneer: Joe Salazar, (574) 457-6754.

Online Only Auction

Wednesday, June 28. Real estate begins closing at 6 p.m., personal property at 7 p.m. Lakefront home on Big Barbee Lake, 7114 E. South Barbee Drive, Pierceton. Open house: 5:30-6 p.m. Wednesday, June 21. Call for private viewing. Home includes 1,764 square feet, three bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 180 feet of lake frontage. bidmetzger.com, (260) 982-0238.

Online Real Estate Auction

Noon Saturday, July 1, Big Chapman Lake, 305 EMS C29 Lane, Warsaw. Lakefront property with 110 feet of lake frontage and 600 feet of channel frontage. Home is 6,208 square feet with six bedrooms, four bathrooms. Call auction manager Gary Spangle to schedule a viewing at (574) 551-1768. Bid live or online at bidmetzger.com, (260) 982-0238.

Self-taught artist – James Castle

Continuing with our series on self-taught artists, we have a very interesting subject this week: James Charles Castle (1899-1977). Castle was born profoundly deaf in Garden Valley, Idaho, and never learned to read, write or interact using sign language.

Because of his difficulty in communicating, he was not expected to assist with the farm’s chores and was able to spend his time freely. He began drawing at about age six and art became his way of communicating with others.

He spent his entire life isolated in his family’s home and businesses, other than a sixmonth stint in the Idaho School for the Deaf and Blind. He was often taunted and ridiculed by others and was eventually expelled from the school.

Castle was interested in art from an early age, and often created from items he found around the property, including scraps of paper and milk containers that he manipulated with soot (by scraping carbon from a wood stove), sticks, string and improvised colors to create an unmistakable representation of his world.

He created drawings, collages, text, abstract art and color

meditations. Lacking supplies, Castle “would render rustic and pastoral architecture and terrain using soot with saliva, which he would put on the end of a sharpened stick to render works of art much like what results with ink or graphite.”(arta nddesigninspiration.com)

His attention to detail in his artwork was remarkable, considering he created most of his works from memory and not direct observation. Castle also created color using homemade paints and washes and his color works tended to be more abstract or dreamlike than his soot drawings.

Castle was believed to be autistic, and this resulted in an “acute visual awareness and near photographic memory” (Yale University Press). Castle’s parents served as postmasters in Garden Valley, working out of the living room of their home,

and this is how Castle obtained much of his material to create art. He created folk artwork of interiors, buildings, animals, landscapes and people based on his family’s property, and created architecture and landscapes of the other places he lived and places he visited.

Castle gained recognition as an artist in the early 1950’s when his nephew, Bob Beach, showed his instructors Castle’s work while he was attending the Museum Art School in Portland, Oregon. This led to Castle’s work being included in exhibitions throughout the northwest. His work was presented in oneperson shows in 1963 and 1976 at the Boise Gallery of Art, now the Boise Art Museum. Castle’s work is now shown in over 20 museums and galleries, including the National Gallery of Art and the Smithsonian American Continued on page 10

Self-taught

Continued from page 9

Art Museum. For more information, go to jamescastle.com.

Events

• Midwest Museum of American Art in Elkhart. The museum is proud to present the exhibition, “America The Beautiful,” by American Master Photographer Clyde Butcher. His extraordinary work will be available for viewing through July 16. The museum is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 1-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The museum is located at 429 S. Main St., Elkhart. Admission is $10. For more information, call (574) 293-6660.

• Lakeland Art Center & Gallery: Juried Show. The show will run through July 22. There will be a reception to announce the winners of the show from

2-4 p.m. June 25. The public is welcome to attend. Gallery hours are 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and admission is free. Gallery is located at 302 E. Winona Ave., Warsaw. For more information, email lakelandartassociation@gmail.com.

• Warsaw City Hall Art Gal-

lery: Kim Lanoue is the featured exhibitor at the Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery. The gallery is inside of Warsaw City Hall, which is located at 102 S. Buffalo St., Warsaw. Gallery is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Free admission.

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

To subscribe: Send email address to mcdar7@gmail.com.

REX ESTATE PUBLIC AUCTION

To be held at the Marshall County Fairgrounds, 211 W. Walnut St., Argos, Indiana

Saturday, June 24, 2023 - 10:00 A.M.

HOUSEHOLD - ANTIQUES

5 pc. King size bedroom suite dark wood with marble top: Bed w/mattress & box springs, armoire, chest of drawers w/mirror, 2 nightstands; 3 pc. Plaid couch, chair and footstool; computer desk; burgundy upholstery office chair; area rugs; black leather sectional couch; dining table w/3 matching chairs; large aquarium; GE dorm size refrigerator (white); occasional tables; misc. chairs; Graco High Chair; Baby bouncy seat; linen; misc. lamps; misc. wall décor; roaster; multiple wood shelves w/pegs; Hoover Wind Tunnel Upright Vacuum; Dirt Devil Upright Vacuum; Lawn ornaments; pond fountain; bird baths; seasonal décor; potting soil; 2020 Total Gym w/extra-large squat stand & accessories; Fitness Gear 820 treadmill; weight bench; ab lounger. Antiques: 2 pc. Mid modern matching chest of drawers (1 w/mirror); 2 white wicker rockers; wooden rocker w/embroidery on seat; child highchair; child’s tea set; Sandalwood (harmony 5217 China) 4 pc place setting w/Oneida silverware; 3 drawer chest; picnic basket; toy stuffed monkey (restored); Singer Sewing Machine in Wooden Box; Ice Cream table w/4 Chairs; Wooden Rocking Chair with leather seat; wooden iron board; patchwork footstool.

GUNS – AMMO – FISHING EQUIPMENT – FISHING BOAT - PONTOON TO SELL AT 10:00 AM

Mossberg 20 ga. pump w/extra rib barrel; Stevens mod. 59B 410 bolt action tube fed shotgun; (2) Stevens mod. 15 bolt action 22 cal. single shot rifles (1 needs bolt); Pardner 20 ga. single shot shotgun; Thompson 50 cal. black powder B&D express; Bpi-cvr Optima 50 cal. black powder; Marlin 22 cal. mod. 1883 bolt action tube fed w/BSA scope & sling; H&R

Handi 5B2 44 cal. Rem Mag single shot w/3-9-40 scope; National Firearms Co. 12 ga. pump; Jim Brown 16 ga. single shot; Sears 22 cal. bolt action w/clip; Remington 30-06 SPRG Gamemaster mod. 760, pump w/clip; Pistols: RG 38 cal. mod. RG 31 Special; Bersa Thunder 380 Acp cal. w/clip & holster; Derringer 22 cal. Magnum 2 shot over/under; assort. of ammo; gun cleaning kits; gun sleeve; Bushnell scope; gun stand; approx. 40 rod & reels in very good condition; several tackle boxes with tackle; 30”x36” like new net; 16” round net; bait bucket; Masterbuilt E. fish smoker; Brink gas grill; 1991 Sylvan 16 Sea Troller fishing boat, Minn Kota trolling motor, anchor, Humminbird fish finder, (2) fish wells, Mercury 40 h.p. engine w/1991 Trailmaster trailer; Both are in good condition for their age; 1992 Suncruiser 23’x8’ Pontoon w/Johnson 40 h.p. motor, 1/2 canopy, 13 person or 1890# capacity w/Jerr trailer (needs upholster work & tune up).

KUBOTA TRACTOR – CAT. FORKLIFT – 3 TRAILERS – 2 MOWERS TO SELL AT 12 NOON

2008 Kubota (Ser# 62687) Bx24 4WD tractor, 24 h.p., diesel, hydro, Rops, 26x12:00-12 AG rubber w/LA 240 loader 48” material bucket, 60” belly mower, BT 601 backhoe 12” bucket, 561 hrs. (this is a very nice unit that has it all and will sell complete as advertised); Caterpillar (Ser# 4EMO 6497) 40 fork lift, LP, 4000 lift, mast tilt 6, 21x7x15 F.R., 16’.5x10

R.R., 4064 hrs.; 25’x8’ tandem axle flatbed trailer w/15” rubber, 2’ beaver tail, 6’ mesh rear gate, 7’ double fold front side mesh gate, ball hitch; Leland 10’x7 1/2’ 2 snow mobile trailer w/12” rubber; Shop Built 8’x5’ single axle trailer w/15” rubber, tilt bed & 12” sides. Simplicity zero turn mower w/B&S 20 h.p., 50” deck, 857 hrs.; Scag zero turn mower w/ Kohler 22 h.p., 61” deck, 1350 hrs.

LAWN – GARDEN – SHOP – MISCELLANEOUS

Cub Cadet 3.5 h.p. edger; BlackMax 4000 PSI 4 gal.pm washer w/Honda Gx390 engine on cart; P.F. 2” 212cc gas power water pump; U.T. 1 h.p. portable lawn pump; lawn spreader; Honda EV 3000 generator; Mini Electric log splitter; Homelite chain saw; Glo-Warm L.P. heater; Coleman heater & lanterns; (2) rolls of 14-2 & 12-2 wire; lawn sweep; 2 shop light w/stand; 36” floor fan: Squirrel cage fan; Reddy 35,000 BTU heater; chain hooks; Keyway welding stock; 100’ 3/8 cable; (2) window A.C. units; oil & antifreeze; approx. 100 aerosol cans of automotive supplies; several totes of plumbing & electrical supplies; (4) 6 1/2’x3’ metal storage cabinets on 4-wheel metal platforms; 5 1/2’x20” folding aluminum ramps; 16’ & 26’ ext. ladders; 6’ & 8’ step ladders; hose reel w/cart & hose; misc. lumber; 52 gal. L shape p/u fuel tank w/12v pump; pallet cart; 2-wheel cart; assort. of auto & trailer tires; approx. 30 11R-24.5 semi tires; receiver hitches; safety chains; tie down straps; trailer light kit; new & used semi parts; new 100’ 12 ga. ext. cord; Lincoln E. barrel pump; copper pipe; several used car/truck batteries; floor model engine stand; Gantry Crane lift (99 1/2” min. – 148” max. height); motorcycle lift 2 1/2:” min. – 30” max.; Viking cherry picker; 840 belt cutter & splicer; C-H 60 gal upright 125 # air compressor; Craftsman 100 lb. air tank; assort. of air hoses; Huskie & Veto Pro Pac work bags; tool & battery boxes; Acetylene tanks (no torches); soldering tanks; New Guardian fall protection harness; several helmets; safety straps; creepers; 40- & 80-hole part bins; Stack On toolbox; (3) Kimball Midwest 4 drawers of new nuts, bolts, screws etc.; shop stools; gas containers; sawhorses; L.P. tanks; coolers; very large assort. of open-end box & socket set, power & hand tools, Snap on YA 165 bat. charger, BC 4200 fast charger; majority of power & hand tools are: SNAPON - MAC - Craftsman - Milwaukee - Bosch - DeWalt; 3-sets of floor jacks; chain hoists; shop vac; (2) 12” chop saws; 12” radial arm saw; ATD Mod106 3/4 drive torque wrench; Associated 6034 500 amp. load tester; industrial bench grinder; 2.7 h.p. table saw; bench MT. drill press; floor band saw; Eastwood T19 200 AC/DC welder; Stinge 10-ton repair kit; EV 60 Plasma cutter; H & H 150 wire welder; electric SDS hammer drills; radiator pressure tester; “C” clamps; B&D 1/2 E. drill; air grease gun; Skil 2.5 h.p. laser cutline saw; Chicago E. shear; Milwaukee deep cut band saw in case (new); T & E 10-ton push /puller in case; Cummins diagnostics engine tester; Coors lite bucket; Snap On calendars; porcelain outdoor light; 24”x48” Interstate Bat. sign; Anco wiper blade cabinet. AUCTION NOTE: The late Dale Rex Sr. owned a Trucking Company & this auction consists of the many quality tools he used in the business. SALE ORDER: 2-Ring auction with the Household and Guns at 10 AM followed by the L.G. & Shop with the hi-lighted items & others to sell at 12 Noon. This is a high-quality live auction that you do not want to miss. We will have most of the items in the Exhibit Bldg. – plenty of parking. For more pictures go to our website.

OTHERS

2009 GMC Savana 3/4 ton Handy Man Van, v/8, automatic, new rubber, Weather Guard aluminum roof ladder rack w/ interior shelving, white color, in good cond. w/56,000 miles, 1966 IH 806 gas tractor, N.F., 2 pt. hitch w/3pt adapters & quick hitch, 10 front wts., rear wts., 18.4-34 rubber, 4403 hrs.; 2008 JD 304 4-wheel steer mower, 42” deck, new rubber w/403 hrs.; Coleman fiberglass 17’ canoe; (2) Husqvarna & Stihl Partner saws; Storm Cat 800 running watts port. generator w/condenser (used very little).

Wawasee tour to help New Hope’s furry little friends

Classic rock band The Strays will be rocking the SS Lillypad to raise funds for New Hope Pet Rescue.

The event will take place from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, June 10, aboard The Frog Tavern’s boat as it cruises Lake Wawasee for two hours of food, music and drinks. Two cash bars will be open on the boat.

Tickets are $50 per person and the money will help New Hope fulfill its mission of feeding and caring for pets in need.

Visit New Hope’s website at nhprindiana.org for more information, or visit the group’s Facebook page. Tickets are available from New Hope volunteers or by emailing nhprindiana@ gmail.com.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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

Miscellaneous A085

Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide

1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads

Garage Sales A070

PLEASANT RIDGE ADDITION, Warsaw neighborhood sale, June 23 & 24, 8am.

FURNITURE, TOYS, TOOLS, June 15-16-17 and June 22-23-24. Lots of H-O model RR stuff. 71535 CR 17, New Paris, 574-536-7204

MULTI-FAMILY, June 15-16-17. Furniture, clothes, backpack and much more. 476 Plymouth-Goshen Trail, Nappanee.

CRESTVIEW SUBDIVISION, Warsaw, 1850 E. Boulder Drive. Kids clothes and toys, boys small, tween girls, household items. 6/16 8-5, 6/17 8-noon.

THE EPWORTH FOREST

Neighborhood Garage Sales. Saturday, June 17, 8am-? Located off East Epworth Forest Rd., North Webster. Watch for signs.

INDOOR BARN SALE, Mom downsizing, antiques, household, tools, too much to list. June 16, 7:30-6:30, June 17, 8-11. No baby stuff. 7846E 800S, South Whitley, Kosciusko County.

HUGE MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE

SALE! Saturday, June 17, 9to 3, 10208 N. St. Rd. 13, Syracuse, IN. Annual Wawasee Storage Condominium

Garage sales with everything from Soup to Nuts and more. Looking for tools, boats, furniture, bikes, Bike

Carrier, car covers, car ramps, children’s clothes, baskets, scrubs, chain saw, computer monitors, linens, water toys, books, household goods, antiques and not so antiques! Don’t miss this sale!

BUSINESS SERVICES

Construction C100

HOCHSTETLER CONSTRUCTION for all your building needs. Pole barns, horse barns, garages, new home construction, additions, all types of metal and asphalt roofing, windows and siding. Superior Service... Quality Workmanship. Licensed and insured. Free estimates. Call Kermit 574-549-3473.

Hauling C160

CLEAN UP AND TRASH REMOVAL

Willis Trash Removal. Residential, commercial and industrial. Bobcat, dumpsters and burn barrels available also.

(574) 293-2937

Insurance C200

Dental insurance - Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Covers 350 procedures. Real insurance - not a discount plan. Get your free dental info kit! 1-855-526-1060 www.dental50plus.com/ads #6258

Siding

Pierceton, IN • Kosciusko County

TIMED ONLINE ONLY!!

Lots Start Closing at 6 PM

SUNDAY, JUNE 25TH

Address: 6590 East 350 South, Pierceton, IN

Tree Service C390

LUMBERJACK JIM TREE SERVICEProfessional tree trimming and removal. Storm damage clean up. Safe and reliable. Fully insured. Locally owned. Call 574-371-6536.

TREE TRIMMING, tree and stump removal service, storm damage clean up, tree climbing or bucket lift, Free estimates. Dan The Tree Man. 574-831-4381, New Paris.

TV Satellite C400

DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/31/24.

1-866-479-1516

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

Seamless Aluminum Gutters Leaf Protection

INSPECTION DATES: Wed., June 21 • 4-6pm Sat., June 24 • 9am-12pm

LOAD-OUT: Monday, June 26 • 1-6pm | Tues., June 27 • 8-11am

SELLER: WES CREEKMORE | AUCTION MANAGER: Eric Ott, 260-413-0787

Misc. Service C430

BACKHOE SERVICES, small

demolition, tree stump removal, trenches, tile repair, etc. Joe Mast 260-350-8078.

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

Diagnosed with lung cancer? You may qualify for a substantial cash awardeven with smoking history. No obligation! We’ve recovered millions. Let us help!! Call 24/7, 1-877-648-2503

MobileHelp, America’s premier mobile

Safe Step Walk-In Bathtub

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

Free high speed internet if qualified. Govt. pgm for recipients of select pgms incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet. Android tablet free w/one-time $20 copay. Free shipping. Call Maxsip Telecom! 1-833-758-3892

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.

Want To Buy P280

CASH FOR SPORTS TRADING CARDS. Baseball, basketball and football. Any size collection. 574-370-3069

Handyman Service

Syracuse, IN • 574-528-1294

EMPLOYMENT

House Cleaning E040

AMISH LADY seeking house cleaning jobs for Fridays. $15/hour. Would need transportation from Nappanee. 574-773-4021

Skilled Employment E070

ENGINEERING

Zimmer, Inc. - Packaging Senior Engineer II (Warsaw, IN): Create, maintain, and improve controlled technical documents such as prints, procedures, bill of materials and routers. Requires a bachelor’s degree in packaging engineering or an engineering discipline, or foreign equivalent, and 5 years of experience in offered role or related position. Up 20% domestic/international travel. Apply via website: http://www.zimmer.com/careers.html. No calls.

Reference Job #: AMER28189.

MEDICAL WRITER

Biomet Manufacturing, Corp. (Warsaw, IN): Responsible for preparing Clinical Evaluation Reports (CERs) for regulatory submissions and Post-market Surveillance Plan literature reviews (PSPs) for analysis of existing product clinical performance. Requires a Master’s degree in Biological Science, Engineering or a similar technical discipline and 3 years of experience in position offered or related position. Up to 10% travel required. Apply via website: http://www.zimmer.com/careers.html. No calls.

Reference Job #: AMER28215

WAWASEE LAKE PROPERTY FOR RENT

Spacious apartment for rent with two bedrooms, one bath, large living area & kitchen, outside deck on second story. Easily accommodates a family, couple or single person. Apartment

Boats/Motors M010

18-FOOT PONTOON, 25 HP Mercury, with trailer. Good shape. Boat is titled. $1,800. Warsaw, 574-376-2239

Motorcycles M050

1993 90TH ANNIVERSARY Harley Davidson XL1200 Sportster. $3,000. Serious inquiries only. Warsaw, 574-376-2239.

FOR SALE: 2005 HARLEY-DAVIDSON ROAD GLIDE, 1 owner, engine has a big bore kit, garage kept & well taken care of, 29,800 miles. $10,500. Call 574-453-7182 for more information.

LEISURE, RECREATIONAL MERCHANDISE

Articles For Sale P030

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

Health Aids P140

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

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

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

REAL ESTATE

RENTALS

Office Space For Rent U070

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT on highly traveled SR 15, Milford. 574-658-3225

Festival

Wednesday, June to Saturday, June

‘Life is Better in North Webster’ is festival’s theme

An old theme has become the theme for this year’s Mermaid Festival. The theme of this year’s festival is “Life is Better in North Webster.”

It is the same one the North Webster Lions Club members found out was used in the past.

Lions club member Scott Fox said apparently this year’s theme was identical to one from many years ago. Lions Club members

found some old buttons and signs with the same theme. Fox said they discovered the treasures at the Lions building after voting on “Life is Better in North Webster.”

According to Mark Lawson, club president, he likes this year’s theme because it is about “what I remember growing up.”

Lawson was born and raised in North Webster. “I like the down-toearth atmosphere,” he said. “It’s a small community and everybody helps everybody.”

The Lions Club came up with about 25 themes, narrowed it down to five, then voted on the one chosen. In the last 77 years, the Lions Club has always chosen the theme.

“We will take anybody’s ideas,” he said. “We already know next year’s theme.”

The theme is very relevant for both the Queen of Lakes and Cutie pageants, said Lawson, as contestants can design different parade

floats based on “Life is Better in North Webster.”

“It’s more so for the Cutie parade,” Lawson said.

Parade participants are encouraged to incorporate the theme into their float designs, including the Queen of Lakes contestants.

Fox, who has lived in North Webster for the past 34 years, raised his two now grown children in the community. “It’s a great place to raise a family,” said Fox, the club’s secretary. “I think our members just like our little town.”

Fox added, “We have everything we need in North Webster.”

Fox is also the entertainment chairman. Like Lawson, Fox stressed this year’s theme is important for both pageants.

As of press time, there are 18 Queen of Lakes contestants this year.

“It’s important how they portray the theme since they get judged on that, too,” said Fox.

Power Wheels race to begin at noon

Children 8 years old and younger will have an opportunity to unleash their inner NASCAR driver starting at noon Saturday, June 24, during the 2023 Mermaid Festival’s Power Wheels race.

So dust off that “power wheel,”

On the cover

Jordan Hofmann is shown on the cover of this year’s Mermaid Festival publication. Hofmann is the 2022 Queen of Lakes. The 2023 Queen of Lakes will be crowned Saturday, June 24.

charge up the battery and come start the day at the Mermaid Festival with some fun races. The “power wheel” can be any car, truck, ATV, etc. that is battery powered. So bring your favorite Power Wheels, or if you don’t have one, come borrow one from the Lions Club.

Registration for the event will begin at 11:30 a.m. Competitors will remain on West Washington Street for the majority of the course, winding their way along the south boundary of the festival grounds. Each age group winner will receive a prize.

Cutie Parade a delightful way to begin Mermaid Festival

The always popular Mermaid Festival Cutie Parade will step off onto North Webster’s Main Street at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 21. The parade will help kick off the 77th Mermaid Festival, which will continue through June 24.

Through the years, it has become one of the most enjoyed centerpieces of the entire week. Many adults who grew up enjoying the Mermaid Festival as children plan their vacations around a trip home, so their children can participate and enjoy the festival’s activities like they did as children.

The events take on an almost reunion-type atmosphere as people visit with friends and family they

may not have seen for a while. Visitors who come from larger towns often marvel at the small-town qualities of an event that has become a wonderful tradition in North Webster.

The Cutie Parade, directed by the North Webster Lions Club, follows the year’s festival theme. Each year, talented people put together spectacular floats in each of the three divisions. Some children have competed in the Cutie Contest and parade for several years, vying for winnings to help with their future college education. Spectators often have cameras in hand to take pictures of that special moment during the parade.

Mermaid Festival schedule features something for everyone

This year’s Mermaid Festival schedule is full of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy. The festival starts June 21 and ends June 24.

The first event, however, is Saturday, June 17, with the Shoop Sports and Youth Foundation Tournament of Champions. The competition begins promptly at 8 a.m.

The festival itself gets underway Wednesday, beginning with the North Webster United Methodist Strawberry Festival, which will be from 4:30-7 p.m. on the festival grounds.

The Cutie parade will step off on Main Street at 6:30 p.m. Tethered balloon rides are from 7-9 p.m. The North Webster Lions Club bike giveaway is at 8 p.m., followed by a demonstration by Lions Karate Academy on Merlin’s stage at 8:15 p.m.

Thursday, Tactical Force Laser Tag will be at 5 p.m. until closing. The free laser tag will return at 5 p.m. Friday and noon Saturday.

Mermaid Pearlyana is from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, followed by Bob Bohm’s Family Entertainment Show at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. The Lake City Bank coin hunt is at 7 p.m., followed by the Old Man Band at 7:30 p.m.

Friday, the Cutie pageant is at 7 p.m. at the North Webster Community Center. Inclognito Cloggers will be at 7:30 p.m., followed by Bohm’s show at 8:30 p.m.

The last day of the festival is Saturday. The power wheels registration is at 11:30 a.m. and the race begins at noon. Bob Bohm’s Family Entertainment Show is at 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. The main parade is at 4 p.m.

The Mermaid Festival demolition derby is at 7 p.m. Saturday.

The Queen of Lakes pageant is at 7 p.m. and the He Said She Said Band performs at 8 p.m.

The midway opens at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and is open noon to close Saturday. Wristbands are $25.

Vendors and merchants will open at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and noon Saturday.

Be sure to stop by the North Webster Lions concession stand and also support these local groups: Wawasee Band Boosters, North Webster United Methodist Church, and Kiwanis Club ice cream, and stop by the food court.

An ATM machine is available on the festival grounds.

Many lifelong memories have been made from a child’s participation in the event.

A CD is made available each year with photos of each of the parade’s participants, which is often purchased by those who choose to enjoy the moment and let someone else take care of the documentation.

As the years have gone by, additional rules have been added for the participants. For example, a child must participate in the parade to be part of the Cutie Contest.

The scholarship money is provided by J. Homer Shoop, who died May 21, 1991, through the Shoop Sports and Youth Foundation Inc. The opportunity to earn some of the scholarship money draws many people from around the region to compete. The winners are announced following the Cutie Contest, which is held Friday evening of the festival.

Queen of Lakes Pageant a highlight of Mermaid Festival

The North Webster Lady Lions Mermaid Festival Queen of Lakes Pageant is rich in history, dating back to 1946 when Peg Kammerer was chosen as the first winner.

This year’s contest will take place at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 24, inside the North Webster Community Center.

The pageant was originally held outside, using a large decorated wagon for a stage. It was later moved inside the North Webster Elementary School gymnasium, now known as the North Webster Community Center, where the stage consisted of cinder blocks and heavy sheets of plywood.

After many years in the gym, the

pageant was moved to the Mermaid Festival grounds, which created a challenge to provide appropriate facilities for the activities.

Today, the pageant is back in the NWCC. The stage was constructed by the North Webster Lions Club. Because the Lady Lions have some talented artistic members, the stage decorations are always unique and follow the festival’s theme.

Queen of Lakes contestants are required to participate in the Mermaid Festival Parade, interviews, theme wear and formal gown competition. For the parade, they provide their own conveyance, and their float is judged for prize money. Historically, each band that

participates in the parade also enters a contestant to represent their school. Queens have been selected from various communities over the years, which has broadened the publicity and outreach of the program.

The interview portion of the event is conducted the morning before the parade and pageant. In-

dividually, each contestant spends time with the judges in a panelstyle interview to give insight into their ability to communicate.

During the theme wear portion, each candidate creates an outfit and containers to collect money for their cause, all based on a certain theme. The contestant who earns the most keeps half the money, with the other half going to the Lady Lions to support local projects.

The contestants also spend a day together, getting to know one another and enjoying each others’ company. An award for Miss Congeniality is given to the contestant who earns the most votes among the group for their ability to be considerate, friendly and willing to help others.

The evening gown competition brings an elegant touch to the pageant and is always a highlight of the event. Each woman has her own unique preferences, which is shown in the diversity of the gowns selected.

The final and most challenging step to becoming Queen of Lakes or a member of the Queen’s court is the final question. Each of the four finalists are individually asked the same question, with no knowledge of the other contestants’ answers.

The North Webster Lady Lions have shown great dedication to the community through fundraisers, including the Cutie Contest, Queen of Lakes and the Christmas Bazaar, held annually in November.

Merlin’s Stage entertainment set for 77th Mermaid Festival

Merlin’s Stage will host a wide variety of family entertainment throughout the week at this year’s Mermaid Festival.

Students from Lion’s Karate Academy will do a demonstration at 8:15 p.m. Wednesday,

June 21, after the bike giveaway. The North Webster-based dojo teaches taekwondo, kobudo, and akiki-jujitsu, offering a variety of classes for students ages 5-65. Be sure to come to the stage to see a variety of martial arts demonstrations done by local students.

Old Man Band will take the stage at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 22, followed by Bob Bohm’s Family Entertainment Show at 8:30 p.m. Bohm’s shows “are a combination of amazing magic, comedy, skits, games, music and fun.”

The Inclognito Cloggers from Kelsey’s School of Dance in Ligonier will entertain festival patrons at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 23. The group performs year-round throughout the region at different festivals. They dress and dance to contemporary music for the more modern festivals, but also have a traditional season. Bob Bohm’s Family Entertainment Show will follow and take the stage at 8:30 p.m.

He Said She Said Band will be playing at 8 p.m. Saturday, June 24, and Bob Bohm’s Family Entertainment Show will be back for their final show of the festival at 8:30 p.m.

WHS supermileage team is this year’s parade grand marshal

The Wawasee High School Supermileage Team is this year’s parade grand marshal for 2023.

The program started in 1999 by instructor Allen Coblentz to compete in the Indiana Super Mileage Engineering Challenge.

After several years of competing in the ISMEC competition, the team decided to also compete in the Shell Eco Marathon in 2010 in Houston, Texas. The program is totally self funded with sponsors and donations from the community.

Upon seeing greater competition in Houston, the team began to move away from fiberglass bodies. The team began to make the cars out of carbon fiber and explored different engines and energy types for the Shell Eco Marathon competitions. They have had the traditional gas en-

Special events on festival schedule

The 2023 Mermaid Festival will feature special events sure to please people of all ages.

On Wednesday, June 21, tethered balloon rides will available from 7-9 p.m., sponsored by RE/ MAX Partners of Syracuse. The event is weather permitting.

This year, free Tactical Force laser tag games will return to the festival. Games will take place from 5 p.m. to close Thursday and Friday, and noon to close Saturday.

The always popular demolition derby will take place at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 24, on the Mermaid Festival Fairgrounds on Washington Street. Registration will begin at 5:30 p.m. with the race starting at 7 p.m.

Cash prizes will be awarded to the first place winner in each heat, as well as to the last car still running and able to move for the final event. The entry fee for each car is $25 and includes two pit passes. For rules and further information, visit nwmermaidfestival.com.

For a complete schedule of events, visit northwebsterlionsclub.com/EVENTS.html.

gine, an ethanol powered engine, a diesel engine, hydrogen generated electric motor, and batterygenerated electrical motors.

The team builds its own cars with some help from local industries for special processes.

The team has traveled to Houston, Texas; Detroit, Mich.; Sonoma, Calif.; and the last two years at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis. The team has seen great success in the Shell Eco Marathon the last 13 years with cars reaching over 1,000 miles to the gallon.

In 2019, at the Sonoma event, the team qualified to compete in a World Championship in London, England, with its diesel Urban Concept car where they competed with teams from Europe and Asia.

At the Shell competition this year, the team built two cars. One was a battery operated, electric motor prototype car and the other a 35cc gas Urban Concept car.

The battery-electric car placed first in its category with 676 miles/KWh and the Urban Concept car placed second in its category with 535 miles per gallon.

The Urban car then placed third in a regional qualifying race. This qualified them to go

to Bangalore, India, for a world competition Oct. 10-12.

The Shoop Sports

Tournament of Champions and Cutie Pageant and Parade

Parade to commence Saturday afternoon

Themed as “Life is Better in North Webster,” the 2023 Mermaid Festival Parade is set to launch at 4 p.m. Saturday, June 24. A wide range of entries is expected, as participants will have the opportunity for a day of fun and merriment.

Roughly 1.5 miles long, the

parade route will extend north on Main Street (SR 13) just past the North Webster Community Center. Lineup for the parade will be at the south end of North Webster.

Entries typically include groups, organizations, clubs, individuals and school bands.

Past entries have included clowns, horses and antique vehicles. Festival queens are required to ride in the parade and entries are also open to anyone who participates in the Cutie parade.

Participating school bands will receive $750 travel money after participating in the parade; however, the bands are also judged and first place will receive $500, second place will receive $300 and third place will receive $200.

Winners will be notified following the parade.

There is still time to enter this year’s parade, as the deadline is not until June 16. For more information, visit northwebsterlionsclub.com/mermaid. html or call (574) 834-4316.

All-you-can-ride wristbands available

The 77th Mermaid Festival will offer a carnival midway, presented by B.A.J.A. Amusements, throughout the event. All-you-can-ride wristbands at $25 per person will be offered each day.

There is also a discount coupon in the Mermaid Festival book that offers discounts for wristbands Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. A physical coupon must be presented at the

ticket box to get a discount on wristbands.

Midway hours are:

• 5 p.m. to close, Wednesday through Friday, June 21-23.

• Noon to close, Saturday, June 24.

• For additional information, visit the festival Facebook page or northwebsterlionsclub.com. For more information about the midway, visit bajamusements. com.

Cutie Contest participants ready to impress

One of the most popular events during Mermaid Festival weekend is the Cutie Contest, which dates back to 1950. The contest brings young boys and girls from around the area to show off their abilities and charm in hopes of winning some of the scholarship money provided by the Shoop Sports and Youth Foundation. The first two winners of the contest were Kay Kruger and Jack Rhoades,

This year’s contest will take place inside the North Webster Community Center at 7 p.m. Friday, June 23.

Historically, there have been local winners, long-distance winners and winners entered by grandparents, parents, aunts and uncles. The tradition continues each year with a new group of adorable children.

Past contests have been held at various locations throughout town, including in the NWCC, Palace of Sports, the area across the bridge from the American Legion and the Mermaid Festival grounds and building. Each location provided a special challenge in managing the children, keeping the program rolling and making sure everything went according to plan.

The Cutie Contest has been a crowd favorite since the first contest. The fun of seeing the children on stage, excited and waving to the crowd, always charms the audience.

For security reasons, new rules have been added throughout the years. For instance, the parent who delivers the child to the preparation room must present identification to pick up the child after the event.

Adult supervision is provided throughout the evening as the children wait for their opportunity to enter the stage. The safety of the children is always paramount to organizers.

Because the intent of the contest is to find a child to represent the Mermaid Festival, the dress is kept simple. The contestants are not “pageant” children, but rather someone’s child, grandchild, nephew or niece who will represent their family and the community

10-event Tournament of Champions set for June 17

The Shoop Sports and Youth Foundation presents Tournament of Champions at 7:15 a.m. Saturday, June 17, at North Webster Elementary School, 5745 N. 750E, North Webster.

The discussion of rules will take place at 7:40 a.m. The competition begins promptly at 8:00 a.m.

The 10-event skills competition has athletes competing for college scholarships provided by the Shoop Sports and Youth Foundation. Scholarships range from $2,000 for first place to $500 for fourth for men’s and women’s divisions. Participants must be high school graduates and no older than 24 years old.

Tournament events include a

1-mile run, free throw contest, standing long jump, pull ups, shuttle run, obstacle course, soccer course, 40-yard dash, long-distance shootout and foot-

ball/softball throw.

The entry deadline has passed for the event, but spectators are encouraged to attend for free at the elementary school.

for years to come.

Watching each child’s interactions with other children can tell you a lot about them. Some are bashful, some are not sure they want to remain on stage, some know they don’t want to remain on stage and some just love being in the spotlight.

Contestants are judged on their attitude and cooperation, suitable attire, self-confidence and overall appearance. The judges look for a well-polished child who will positively represent the community. Eventually, one boy and one girl are chosen as winners of the contest.

Impartial judges from outside Kosciusko County are provided for the contest. The job of a judge is not an easy task and not one they take lightly.

Attendees at the contest agree there is nothing like the final picture taken with the winners and their trophies, which sometimes are the same height.

The North Webster Lady Lions hope each child who participates will look back on their experience with pride and a sense of appreciation for the Lions Club, the Mermaid Festival and the North Webster community.

Coffee is always a good idea!

This year’s Person of the Year is Lori Mark

Every year, The North WebsterTippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce names a Person of the Year.

This year, Lori Mark was named The Person of the Year for 2023. She was honored with the distinction in March at the chamber’s annual banquet.

Chamber President Emily

Shipley stated Mark’s outstanding character and dedication to her community were made on the first impression.

Mark received three nominations, a testament to the positive impact she has on lives of those around her. Despite her many accomplishments, she remains humble and prefers to avoid the

spotlight. With the help of Mark’s family, Shipley was able to piece together an impressive list of community involvement.

Mark is heavily involved in the North Webster Community Center and North Webster Food Pantry.

“My heart is at the center and the food pantry,” Mark said.

She has served on NWCC board for about 15 years and the food pantry for 17 years.

In addition, Mark sits on the Shoop Foundation’s board, and is committed to preserving North Webster’s heritage and supporting its residents. She also serves as president of the North Webster Food Pantry and is a member of Shepherd by the Lakes Lutheran Church, Syracuse.

Mark was born in North Webster, but moved away from the area at the age of 10. She attended North Webster Elementary School until third grade.

She moved back to the area 37 years ago. She married husband Jon, an optometrist, and had two daughters, Brooke and Kelsey. She also has four grandchildren.

She said serving the community goes “back to my roots.” Her grandfather served on the town board and her uncle was a sheriff.

“I always looked up to him,” said Mark of her grandfather.

Mark said she was “very surprised” at being named Person

of the Year. “I couldn’t believe it, and I was very honored. I am very humbled.”

Mark has been a resident of the town for more than three decades.

“North Webster has always been special to me,” she said. “I’ve always considered North Webster home. I love the community. Now, I get to follow in my family’s footsteps.”

A selfless giver, she consistently works until a project or task is completed, always putting her community first. Her tireless efforts in various community organizations and unwavering commitment to making a difference have earned her this welldeserved recognition as Person of the Year, according to the Mermaid Festival guide. Mark is featured on page six.

www.loosemoosemotors.com