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READY TO RESPOND — The Silver Lake Volunteer Fire Department is ready to respond to calls this Independence Day but hope to keep

related incidents down.

Local fire department gives backyard fireworks advice

By NATHAN PACE Staff Writer

The sounds, sights and scents of fireworks are about to hit your neighborhood and one area fire department is sharing how to stay safe

John Conley is the fire chief of the Silver Lake Volunteer Fire Department and has seen the trouble fireworks can cause if not monitored properly

“I have seen with dry conditions two roofs start burning after some landed on them, and we got them put out before having to call,” Conley said “I have seen a couple of wildfires start by them, and we were also able to get them out ”

While Conley said he has yet to see fireworks start a fire the department could not contain, he encour-

ages safety to prevent Kosciusko County residents from becoming one of the 6,400 people nationwide treated for fireworks-related injuries each summer Of those injuries, 30 percent are them are children younger than 15

Conley cites the Indiana Department of Homeland Security for his main tips for firework safety

His first piece of advice is to only light one firework at a time and never attempt to relight or fix a dud firework Another high priority tip is to not make or alter any fireworks

Also, prevent young children from handling fireworks

For those with pets, Conley advises them to keep pets indoors and create an area where the pets cannot see or hear the fireworks For some pets, buying medication from a veterinarian to calm the pet should

be considered

Conley does not want to see any fires start in the trash and encourages residents to douse the firework in water after it has finished burning

Other tips include:

• Always have a fire extinguisher or water supply, such as a hose or bucket of water, nearby

• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children

• Never smoke or consume alcohol when lighting fireworks

• Do not hold lit fireworks in your hands, and do not point or throw fireworks at others

• Use extreme caution when lighting fireworks in the wind Keep spectators where the wind is blowing smoke and debris away from them

In case of windy conditions, Conley suggests caution The wind could blow a burning spark and set another area on fire

Items to have on hand for backyard fireworks are a fire extinguisher, water supply, hose or bucket of water nearby in case of a fire

The state permits fireworks to be free from local ordinances from Saturday, June 29, to Tuesday, July 9

On those days, fireworks are allowed from 5 p m to two hours after sunset Thursday, July 4, has the longest hours from 10 a m to midnight

The Silver Lake Volunteer Fire Department consists of 13 people: Conley, Addison Allen, Jacob Bake, Cody Bixler, Lindsey Brouyette, Austin Cook, Jadon Eichelberger, Kyle Martin, Joey McNeal, Damon Prater, Eric Shankster, Mike Weller and Eric Williams

fireworks

The department consists of, from left, Damon Prater

(left), John Conley, Jadon Eichelberger, Joey McNeal, Cody Bixler, Addison Allen, Austin Cook, Eric Williams, Mike Weller, Kyle Martin, Jacob Baker, Lindsey Brouyette and Eric Shankster. Photo provided by John Conley.

Travis Rowland reaches 30 years of firefighting

By NATHAN PACE Staff Writer

Learning from his father led Travis Rowland to a career lasting 30 years as a firefighter in Kosciusko County. Rowland will retire this month from the Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory.

“My dad (Dennis Rowland) was a volunteer at Claypool for years,” Rowland said. “I would go with him to meetings and working on trucks.”

Upon graduating from Northwestern Business College in Ohio, it didn’t take long for his dad to put him on the duty roster.

“I got back from college and he was hey ‘Here’s your stuff,’” Rowland said.

Learning from his father set the stage for Rowland to want to pass down knowledge to young firefighters as well.

“You get to a point where you really enjoy it. There are some things that you don’t enjoy but working with different guys and the different things you can do on a daily basis, you can just make a career out of it,” Rowland said.

Most of his time as a firefighter has been with the Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory, and he has also been with the Claypool Volunteer Fire Department.

Warsaw-Wayne fire station 15 located at 620 W. CR 200S, War-

saw, will host a retirement celebration for Rowland. The festivities run from 4-6 p.m. Friday, July 12.

In addition to his father, Rowland said there are numerous people who he has to thank for getting him to where he is.

“There are multiple of multiples of people,” Rowland said. “Pass along the stuff that you were passed on to by some of the guys before you. Try to pass that along to the generation coming in; some of the older guys, who have worked at Warsaw over the years. You put that in your mind and your toolbox to pass along to some of the younger guys.”

Rowland has a degree in diesel mechanics. He has utilized this knowledge in finding the right firetrucks for his department.

“I oversaw purchasing and building of the new trucks and the equipment that goes on them. Visiting other departments, asking them what they like and don’t like about it. How they build it. Then we were able to put all the puzzle pieces together when we were building a couple of our trucks,” Rowland said. “You don’t just go to the firetruck store and buy one. It’s not like going to your local Chevy deal and buying a pickup. There’s all different types of options.”

With retirement upcoming,

Rowland said he is excited to spend more time with his wife, Jenny. He cites the time away from home as a reason why 30 years is enough.

“You’re away from your home and your family. It’s a really good schedule. Most of the guys have a part-time job on the side, which I do too. I farm on the side for a gentleman here in Warsaw.”

One aspect he will miss the most are community events and interacting with children, who are excited about firefighters.

“When we do the kids’ programs and go to the schools over the years, I don’t know what it is. It is something I’ve enjoyed doing and kept doing it,” Rowland said. “It’s just time to hang up the stuff for now and try to do something different.”

Indiana State Police Bremen trooper marks 25 years of service

The career of an Indiana state trooper is a journey which can span decades serving the citizens of Indiana. Three local troopers from the Indiana State Police Bremen Post have hit a career milestone of serving for 25 years,

including Sgt. Brandon McBrier. He is a graduate of the 57th Indiana State Police Recruit Academy and graduated on June 13, 1999.

McBrier was originally assigned to the Lowell Post following graduation from the academy.

He transferred to the Bremen Post in 2001, where he patrolled Kosciusko County. During this time, McBrier was recognized in 2009 and 2013 as the Bremen Post Trooper of the Year and Department Trooper of the Year in 2013.

McBrier was promoted to serve as a squad sergeant in 2014, when he supervised troopers in Kosciusko County and currently supervises troopers in the All Crimes Policing squad. During his tenure with the state police, McBrier has been a field training officer, Mobile Field Force member, Clandestine Lab Team member, and field training officer coordinator.

McBrier is married and lives in Kosciusko County.

SGT. BRANDON MCBRIER

Local students named to dean’s list

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

Manchester University

Bourbon — Gabriel Duke, Jaela Faulkner

Leesburg — Christina Morrow

Mentone — Kristina Bubb

Milford — Gracelyn Hills

North Manchester — Rex Addair, Ashley Pierce, Brayden Stamm,

Bryce Mugford, Chloe Steele, Elaine Shock, Elise Harter, Hadley Schannep, Isabella Stanley, Josie Kiser, Kaden Dillon, Marissa McLean, Megan Pierce, Miriam Erbaugh, Paige Snider, Samuel Hupp, Zachary Mangham

Syracuse — Kaitlin Graber, Bailey Fox, Leo Wrage

Warsaw — Brooke Batalis, Abigail Oliver, Anna Arter, Anthony Foust,

Cameron Brown, Isabelle Dittmar

Winona Lake — Evangelina

Vega

Saint Mary’s College

Nappanee — Mary Ellsworth, Liliana Lomeli, Madison Weaver

Wakarusa — Alexandra Miller

Winona Lake — Elizabeth Stone

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

Wakarusa — Ella Ramer

OPEN CLASS COMPETITION The Kosciusko County Extension Homemakers Club is planning for the open class competition at the county fair this year. Anyone can compete in open class competition in a variety of categories.

Pictured sitting from left are Jan Godshalk, Marsha Miller, Alice Keirn, Amy Thompson, Teresa Landis, Kendra Thompson, Deb Schroeder, Marvene Johnson, Julie Popenfoose, Katherine Dwyer, Robin Hoffer, Judy Egolf, Teresa Zurcher, and Laurie Reiner. Pictured standing in back are Robin Shafer, Sue Martin and Dawn Harris. Photo provided.

Kosciusko Extension Homemakers Club plans open class competition at fair

The Kosciusko County Extension Homemakers Club is preparing for open class exhibits and competition at this year’s county fair, which is July 7-13.

Anyone can enter open class competitions at the fair. You do not need to live in Kosciusko County or be an extension homemaker.

The extension homemakers, who are responsible for the open class exhibits in the Home and Family Arts Building on the fairgrounds, recently held a meeting as they plan for the event.

Sue Martin, Home and Family Arts Building director, and Robin Shafer, assistant director, conducted the informational meeting with department superintendents of the open class exhibits.

The departments include:

• Agricultural, 12 classes.

• Crafts, 10 classes.

• Fine Arts, five classes.

• Photography, five classes.

• Food Preservation, nine classes.

• Food Department, 11 classes.

• Garden, flowers and plants, nine classes.

• Herbs, five classes.

• Needlework, including quilts, nine classes, and other needlework, eight classes.

• Sewing, 10 classes.

Champions are chosen in each class and Best of Show is awarded in each department.

Every department has a youth class, for children ages 10 and younger, and a junior class, for children ages 11-17. Members of the 4-H program are eligible to make entries.

Check-in for entries will be from 8-11:30 a.m. Saturday, July 6. Entrants are asked to use the east door of the Home and Family Arts Building.

Judging will start at noon Saturday, July 6, and continue until complete.

During fair week, the Home and Family Arts Building will be open from noon to 8 p.m. July 8, 9, 11 and 12. On Senior Day, Wednesday, July 10, the building will be open from 10:10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Special events are being planned at the Home and Family Arts Build-

ing. From 1-3 p.m. Tuesday, July 9, a free “Make It and Take It” event will give people the opportunity to make a star decoration and take it home with them. From 1-3 p.m. Thursday, July 11, the “Knitting Together” event will let knitters join extension homemakers for knitting and to get help with any projects they’re working on.

Raffle and silent auction winners will be announced shortly after 5 p.m. Friday, July 12.

An award will be given to the extension homemaker, who entered the most exhibits.

New this year: an exhibitor who is not a member of the Extension Homemakers Club and who entered the most exhibits will also receive an award.

All entries will be released from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 13. There will be no additional release dates.

GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY

Doug and Donna Phillips will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with an open house July 13. Photo provided.

SAYING ‘I DO’ IN ‘74

Doug and Donna Phillips were united in marriage July 14, 1974, in Atwood. Photo provided.

Phillipses to celebrate 50th wedding anniversary

The family of Doug and Donna Phillips invite you to help celebrate the couple’s 50th wedding anniversary at an open house.

The open house will be held from 2-7 p.m. Saturday, July 13, at the Oswego Community Cen-

ter, 3016 E. Rader Road, Oswego. The couple were married July 14, 1974, in Atwood. They have a son and daughter and two grandsons. They request no gifts, saying the attendance of family and friends is the best gift.

Magical Meadows hires new executive director

Magical Meadows has announced the hiring of a new executive director to lead the nonprofit organization.

Michael Kuhn joined the therapeutic horseback riding center as its executive director Monday, July 1, and will work directly with the existing staff and board of directors to begin developing new fundraising, programming and capital improvement efforts.

“We are excited to bring Michael into our Magical Meadows family,” said Tammy Stackhouse, founder of Magical Meadows. “Michael brings the same passion and dedication to our mission and families as we have shared with them over the past 17 years. We believe his expertise in the ever-challenging nonprofit world will help Magical Meadows fulfill our dreams and help us build a place of opportunity for this amazing community of families, who have become dear to my heart.”

The changes are coming as Magical Meadows pursues a new vision of expanding and improving its physical infrastructure to add additional services and programs related to recreation and various therapies. Kuhn will be working with the current staff, board of directors and key stakeholders to establish a new strategic plan.

Kuhn, a Leesburg native and Warsaw Community High School graduate, is returning to work in the community after spending the past eight years working in Fort Wayne. He brings a variety of professional experiences from his time in the television news and nonprofit industries.

Most recently, Kuhn served as the development director at Camp Red Cedar, an inclusive summer

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camp and horseback riding facility where he led all fundraising, communications and strategic planning initiatives. Prior to his time there, he worked at Habitat for Humanity of Greater Fort Wayne and helped rebuild the homeownership program, while doubling the number of families served.

These roles in the nonprofit world came after Kuhn spent over three years working as a TV news reporter at WANE 15. He now hopes to use all of the experiences and skills he gained through these careers to help usher Magical Meadows into the future.

“Over the past 17 years, Tammy, Carl and everyone at Magical Meadows have built an amazing organization that profoundly impacts the lives of so many individuals with disabilities, veterans and first-responders in our community,” Kuhn said. “I consider it a true honor and privilege to get to walk alongside them to actualize their vision of serving even more people in new and innovative ways. Doing so in my hometown makes this opportunity even more

special for me and my family.”

Carl Adams, who has served as board president and executive director for 14 years, will stay in his role as board president but will transition to being the director of operations when Kuhn starts next month. In addition to helping with the executive director transition, Adams will also assist Stackhouse and riding instructors with dayto-day operations and stewarding relationships with past, current and future supporters and families.

“The last 14 years of leading the Magical Meadows have been so rewarding,” Adams said. “I have witnessed multiple lives changed, goals achieved and challenges overcome. I have had the honor of seeing children say their first words and take their first steps. There comes a time when you know it’s time to let go of the reins and allow the next individual to saddle up and ride. I believe Michael is a great fit. I am excited beyond words as Magical Meadows begins this new chapter of meeting the challenges of growing the vision and expanding our forever home for our incredible individuals.”

Magical Meadows was founded by Stackhouse in 2007 out of a love for horses and a belief getting away from the noise and busyness of everyday life to connect with the natural world has the power to heal. The organization exists to provide a natural space for those with physical, cognitive or emotional challenges, along with their families, to experience the healing power of horses.

Magical Meadows is located in Warsaw. Learn more at themagicalmeadows.org.

Food Bank sets mobile food distributions for July

The Food Bank of Northern Indiana has set mobile food distributions for the month of July.

Assorted food items are offered free of charge to those in need of food assistance. All items are pre-boxed and pre-bagged. Food is available on a first-come, firstserved basis, while supplies last.

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

Elkhart County

• 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, July 11, at East Goshen Mennonite Church, 2019 E. Lincoln Ave., Goshen. This distribution is provided by Lippert and will serve 200 households.

Marshall County

• 10 a.m. to noon Friday, July 12, at Bourbon Helping Hands, Faith First Fellowship Church, 204 N. Washington St., Bourbon. This distribution is sponsored by CVS and will serve 200 households.

Kosciusko County

• 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday, July 31, at the former Helping Hands Food Pantry, 10072 W. CR 600S, Mentone. This distribution is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and will serve 150 households.

Support from Citizens Concerned for the Homeless, the city of Michigan City, CVS, Heartland Church, Lippert and the USDA has helped to make July’s mobile food distributions possible, according to a news release from the Food Bank.

MICHAEL KUHN

NorthWood to name Fras as dean of athletics

NorthWood High School has announced the appointment of Evan Fras as the next dean of athletics. Fras comes to NorthWood with a proven track record of success and leadership experience. A highlyrespected educator and coach, Fras will bring high level enthusiasm and commitment to the department, the student-athletes, and the community.

Fras is a 2014 graduate of Mishawaka High School. He earned his undergraduate degree from Indiana University Bloomington in 2018 and is set to complete his master’s in athletic administration from Grace College this summer. Additionally, he has achieved his registered athletic administrator certification, underscoring his commitment to excellence in the field of athletic administration.

Since August 2018, Fras has been a key member of the social studies department at Warsaw Community High School, where he has served as the department leader. In this role, he observed and evaluated students’ performances, behaviors and social developments.

He also was the department liaison and case manager for the Response to Intervention program. Fras has been a continuous learner and one who is willing to take lead at any given opportunity.

Fras’s background in athletic administration and coaching goes back to the days when he would assist his uncle, Jim Aldrich, who was the athletic director at Mishawaka High School. It was then he knew he wanted to pursue a career in leading and supporting coaches and student-athletes.

While at WCHS, he would serve as an event host, sports coordinator intern and assist in fundraising, game-day operations, compliance monitoring and event coordination. He also served as a varsity assistant football coach and track coach during his time there.

Director of Athletics AJ Risedorph expressed his enthusiasm about Fras’s appointment, stating, “Evan Fras brings a dynamic combination of educational leadership and athletic experience to NorthWood High School.

“One of our missions moving

EVAN FRAS

forward is to provide more opportunities for student-athlete leadership and service. Evan’s dedication to student success, both socially and academically in classroom and on the field of play, aligns perfectly with our desire to support all our student-athletes’ needs. We are confident and excited to see him inspire and lead our student-athletes and support our amazing team of coaches.”

Fras is equally excited to join the NorthWood athletic department.

“I’m so grateful for the opportunity to become a Panther as the new dean of athletics.This transition wouldn’t be possible without the unrelenting support from my family, friends, and colleagues. I can’t wait to start working toward the continued excellence of the student body here at NorthWood and the Wa-Nee community alongside AJ, the coaches and the administration. Go Panthers!” Fras officially assumed his role as dean of athletics Monday, July 1.

The town of Wakarusa is interested in starting a park board. If you are interested in applying for this opportunity, the town invites you to complete the application and return it to Holly Landis at your earliest convenience.

The town office is located at 100 W. Waterford St., Wakarusa. Landis anticipates compiling the applications during the

month of June. The town council will then review and appoint five individuals to the board, which will help continue to make Wakarusa’s parks and community a beautiful place to be.

The application is available on the town of Wakarusa’s Facebook page or by emailing Landis at Holly@TownOfWakarusa. com.

By KEITH KNEPP Staff Writer

During last week’s bimonthly meeting of the Nappanee Common Council, members were updated on the progress of a new clubhouse at McCormick Creek Golf Course. Landon Martin of Veridus Group addressed the

council via video conferencing to discuss the status of the project.

“Back on May 17, we accepted proposals ... for the new clubhouse,” said Martin. “We received four responses. Three teams were submitting as a traditional design-builder team. One individual proposal came in as strictly in a developer role. The selection

committee received each of those proposals and began evaluating them upon submission. On June 10, the entire selection committee ... conducted interviews with each of the four individual teams and then evaluated ... based on the criteria that was set forth...”

No recommendation or approval was asked of the council. Martin was only providing an update of the next steps in the process.

Join the city of Nappanee at 5:30 p.m. Friday, July 12, as it celebrates 150 years as a city by digging up the centennial time capsule, which was placed in front of the downtown pavilion 50 years ago.

Do you know someone who contributed to it or is the intended recipient of something

inside? The city is looking for any information you might have. Reach out to Brooklyn Moore at Nappanee City Hall at (574) 773-2112 or bmoore@nappanee. in.gov.

Come be a part of this historic moment and help honor Nappanee’s past while looking forward to its future.

Join Visit Nappanee for a very special Friday Fest from 5-9 p.m. Friday, July 12, as it celebrates the 150th anniversary of Nappanee. This evening promises to be packed with activities and entertainment for all ages, making it a night to remember.

One of the highlights of this monumental celebration will be the exciting opening of time capsules, unveiling treasures and memories from the town’s rich history. This unique event offers a rare glimpse into the past and a chance to connect with the heritage that makes Nappanee so special.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, The Steve and Debbie Rorie Revival (formerly known as The Singing Rories) will provide live music, filling the air with their soulful southern gospel tunes. Their performance is sure

to captivate and inspire audiences of all ages.

Bring your family and friends to enjoy a variety of games, savor delicious offerings from local food vendors and admire unique vehicles in the car show. Don’t forget to explore the handmade crafts by talented artisan vendors, perfect for finding one-ofa-kind treasures and supporting local artisans.

“We are thrilled to celebrate Nappanee’s 150th anniversary with our community and visitors,” said Cami Mechling, Visit Nappanee’s executive director. “This Friday Fest is an extraordinary opportunity to honor our town’s history, while enjoying a vibrant evening of entertainment, food, and fun.”

For more information, visit visitnappanee.com or email visitnappanee@gmail.com.

“We’re now moving into a scoping period with the highestscoring team, which happens to be Ace Builders,” said Martin. “It allows the city to enter into a norisk structure ... to evaluate the feasibility of taking the design, which Ace has provided with some rough costs ... and build out a little more.”

At the culmination of the scoping period, if the city can come to terms on a guaranteed maximum price, a public hearing would be held before potentially finalizing the contract.

North Webster Chamber continues to support the local community

Serving the town of North Webster and surrounding Tippecanoe Township, the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce is working to foster an environment in which residents can live, work and play.

As part of their mission to promote local businesses and growth opportunities, the chamber will continue to sponsor the town’s annual Dixie Day Festival celebration from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 27. The festivities include a craft fair and food vendors. Automobile enthusiasts will enjoy the car, truck, motorcycle and tractor shows.

The Dixie Sternwheeler will also be offering cruises Memorial Day through Labor Day. Additional cruises will be added at 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. for Dixie Day with tickets costing $7 and

cruises lasting approximately 75 minutes.

The chamber held their annual banquet on March 11 and Mike Kissinger was named the chamber’s “Person of the Year.”

Kissinger has been involved in youth sports and started a community center garage sale. He volunteers at every community center event, including Dixie Day.

“He’s a genuine class act,” Emily Shipley, chamber president, said on Kissinger. “Selfless and humble.”

Kissinger was previously awarded the chamber person of the year in 2011 and was a recipient of the Kosciusko County Community Foundation’s Heart of Gold Award in 2015.

Some of the numerous highlights Shipley noted about the chamber include a community

guide that helped raise the total number of chamber members to 124. You can find copies of the community guide at the visitor’s center located inside the community center and at various local businesses.

There is also a storefront decorating contest to add festivity to the town for the holidays.

Ribbon cuttings for new members, new locations and new owners continue to be held throughout the year. Members are also celebrated, with the chamber board choosing a Member of the Month each month.

The North Webster tree lighting ceremony returned in 2022 and will have its third straight year this winter on Saturday, November 23. The event takes place at Pilcher’s lawn at 4 p.m. with a countdown to the tree lighting beginning at 6:15 p.m.

Koch named environmental, health and safety manager for CTB Inc.

John Koch has been named environmental, health and safety manager for CTB Inc., according to Michael J. Kissane, executive vice president and chief administrative officer for CTB Inc.

In his new role, Koch will implement policies and programs to manage CTB’s compliance with employee safety laws and regulations and environmental laws and regulations, and to promote a safe and healthy workplace.

Before joining CTB, Koch gained 15 years of leadership and managerial experience, most recently as the senior environmental, health and safety manager for a major recreational vehicle manufacturer in Elkhart, where he managed the

environmental, health and safety of programs across 10 locations, ensured OSHA compliance and implemented safety initiatives.

Prior to his career in the manufacturing sector, Koch served in the Army National Guard as a combat engineer/specialist, and he was deployed to Iraq for three years.

Koch is a graduate of Indiana State University, Terre Haute, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in insurance and risk management. He also holds a Master of Science degree in occupational health and safety management, a Master of Science degree in organizational leadership, a Master of Science degree in human resources and a Master of Business Administration degree, all from Columbia Southern University, Orange Beach, Ala. A native of Niagara Falls, N.Y., Koch currently resides in Winona Lake.

Practice being in the present

By EMILY CHRIST Health and Human Sciences Extension Educator Purdue Extension Elkhart County

Practicing presence, or mindfulness, is a powerful way to reduce stress, increase happiness, and enhance your overall well-being.

Being present means fully engaging with the current moment rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. In a world which encourages multitasking and constant connectivity, the value of being fully present in the moment cannot be overstated and matters

Part of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage of the Roman Catholic Church will be passing through Warsaw Tuesday, July 9.

A procession of Catholic faithful is expected to walk from St. Francis Xavier Parish in Pierceton to Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Warsaw, following an eight-mile route down Pierceton Road, through Winona Lake, then down Winona Avenue and McKinley Street to Sacred Heart on Fort Wayne Street.

The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage is a prelude to the National Eucharistic Congress. It is a Catholic tradition where the Eucharist is carried through the streets, accompanied by the faithful.

for several reasons.

When you focus on the present moment, your mind is less likely to dwell on past regrets or future worries. This can significantly reduce stress and anxiety helping you to remain calm and centered. Being present when interacting with others fosters deeper, more meaningful connections. It shows that you value and respect the person you’re engaging with, which can strengthen relationships and communication.

One of the simplest ways to practice being present is through mindful breathing. Take a few moments to focus on your breath. Feel the sensation of each inhale and exhale.

The historical pilgrimage consists of four different routes beginning on opposite sides of the country and meeting in Indianapolis for the National Eucharistic Congress July 17-21. Collectively, the four National Eucharistic Pilgrimage routes will traverse 6,500 miles, 27 states and 65 dioceses, while carrying “Christ in the Eucharist.”

The Fort Wayne-South Bend Diocese is part of the northern route, called the Marian Route, in honor of the Shrine of Our Lady of Champion in Champion, Wis., the only approved apparition site of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the United States.

The pilgrimage began on Sun-

This anchors you in the present moment.

Use your senses to connect with the present. Pay attention to what you see, hear, feel, smell and taste. This practice can be especially enjoyable in nature or while savoring a meal. Lastly, minimize distractions, which prevent you from being fully present. Put away your phone, turn off the TV, and create a calm environment to focus your attention.

By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you can become more present and enjoy the benefits of reduced stress, improved focus, and a greater sense of contentment in the here and now.

day, June 2, the Feast of Corpus Christi. The Marian Route started at the headwaters of the Mississippi. Eight young adults have accompanied the Eucharist the entire way. On Tuesday, July 9, they will arrive at St. Francis Xavier in Pierceton about 9:45 a.m. for a short time of prayer and adoration. Then, with all of the faithful, some joining from Michigan and Ohio, they will process with the Eucharist the eight miles to Sacred Heart in Warsaw. With police escort, the route will follow Pierceton Road, taking a short break at the old Racoon Run Pavilion, then continue on Pierceton Road to Miller Field Baseball Complex. From there, they will follow the walking trail to Grace College campus and then proceed down Seventh Street to Chestnut Street, going through the roundabout at the intersection of Kings Highway and Argonne Road onto Winona Avenue and then to McKinley Street, crossing Center Street to Fort Wayne Street and ending at Sacred Heart around 2 p.m. for a time of adoration with benediction at 3:45 p.m.

JOHN KOCH

PERSON OF THE YEAR — Mike Kissinger, center, was named the 2023 North Webster-Tippecanone Township Chamber of Commerce Person of the Year. He is shown with Gwen Fuchs and Emily Shipley, right. Photo by Deb Patterson.

Kosciusko County

Livestock show schedule of events

Several livestock shows have a new day and/or time for the 2024 county 4-H fair. The schedule of events kicks off 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 3, with a Cat Show in the 4-H Office and wraps up with project pick-up in the Shrine Building from 9 a.m. to noon Monday, July 15.

Following is the full schedule events. All events take place within the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds, Warsaw. To view a map of the fairgrounds, visit kcfair.com/p/ events/event-map. Dates and times are subject to change. Keep up-to-date with potential changes by checking the Clover Close-Up and social media for updates.

Wednesday, July 3

6 p.m. Cat Show in the 4-H Office

6 p.m. Pocket Caged Critters Show in the 4-H Office

Saturday, July 6

2 p.m. Dairy Show in the Show Arena

6 p.m. Rabbit Ambassador Con-

test in the Rabbit Barn

6 p.m. American Heritage Judging in the Antique Display

7 p.m. Horse and Pony Costume Class in the Horse Arena

8 p.m. Horse and Pony Last Year Member Spotlight Ride in the Horse Arena

9 p.m. Horse and Pony Pizza Party in the Horse Barn

Sunday, July 7

7-10 a.m. Poultry Breakfast in the Poultry Barn

9 a.m. Blacksmith Judging in the Blacksmith Shop

9 a.m. Mini 4-H Horse and Pony Show in the Horse Arena

9 a.m. Mini 4-H Alpaca Show, followed by an Alpaca Show in the Show Arena

12 p.m. Parade of Champions in the Show Arena

12:30 p.m. Battle of the Barns in the Show Arena

2 p.m. Mini Rabbit Show in the Rabbit Barn

4 p.m. Mini 4-H Goat Show, followed by Meat Goat Specialty

by Deb Patterson.

Show in the Show Arena

7 p.m. Horse and Pony Miniature Horse Versatility in the Horse Arena

Monday, July 8

9 a.m. Beef Show in the Show Arena

9 a.m. Rabbit Show in the Rabbit Barn

9 a.m. Horse and Pony Showmanship in the Horse Arena

4 p.m. Dairy Goat Show in the Show Arena

6 p.m. Horse and Pony Show in the Horse Arena

Tuesday, July 9

8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 4-H Volunteer Appreciation Day in the 4-H Fair Office

8 a.m. Poultry, Pigeon and Waterfowl Show in the Poultry Barn

8:30 a.m. Swine Show in the Show Arena

9 a.m. Horse and Pony Show in the Horse Arena

9 a.m. Mini 4-H Llama, followed by a Llama Show in the Llama Tent

6 p.m. Horse and Pony Contesting Versatility in the Horse Arena

7 p.m. Dairy Skill-A-Thon in the Show Arena

Wednesday, July 10

8 a.m. Dairy Steer and DCFS Show in the Show Arena

9 a.m. Horse and Pony Show in the Horse Arena

9 a.m. Llama Show in the Lla-

ma Tent

3 p.m. Poss-ABILITIES Showcase in the Show Arena

4 p.m. Sheep Show in the Show Arena

6 p.m. Horse and Pony Pleasure Versatility in the Horse Arena

Thursday, July 11

9 a.m. Horse and Pony Show in the Horse Arena

9 a.m. Mini Beef, Dairy, DCFS, Sheep and Swine 4-H Showcase in the Show Arena

1 p.m. Mini 4-H Poultry Show in the Poultry Barn

3 p.m. Supreme Poultry, Rabbit, Goat, DCFS and Dairy Showmanship afternoon session in the

Continued on page 8

County Fair

Horse

Photo

COMMUNITY Kosciusko County

Sale of Champions, auction takes place Friday, July 12

The annual Kosciusko County 4-H Auction will take place at 9 a.m. Friday, July 12, in the show

arena on the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds in Warsaw. Registration will begin between 7:30-8 a.m

The Sale of Champions will start the day. Here, grand champions and reserve champions, not

being shown at the Indiana State Fair, will be brought to the show arena by their 4-H’er handlers.

The sale order this year will be 10-year 4-H’ers, poultry, rabbit, sheep, beef, dairy beef, DCFS, dairy, swine and goats. The King and Queen kiss will be during the auction as they are “sold” with the Sale of Champions.

The 4-H livestock exhibitors gain hands-on financial and decision-making skills and learn responsibility and the value of hard work. The auction rewards and honors young people for the efforts they take to grow and show quality livestock.

The 4-H’ers will appear in descending years in 4-H. All 10year/last year members will follow the Sale of Champions; after that it will be a rotation of species with the order being nine years in 4-H to first-year 4-H’ers.

The auction is “premium only.”

During the auction, a buyer pays premiums, or a cash award in recognition of a 4-H’er’s financial investment and hard work. Animals will remain with the 4-H member or will be sold outside of the 4-H livestock auction. Although 4-H’ers may exhibit multiple species, each youth is only allowed to go through the auction ring once.

The 4-H’ers will choose one species to represent their livestock projects. Project information for each exhibitor will be listed in the sale program. A bidder may be the sole buyer; however, bidders have the option to

share purchases.

For those who cannot attend the live auction, there are two additional options for participation. Add-ons will begin at the end of the live auction and close at midnight Tuesday, July 16.

Individuals can visit and register on fairentry.com/Fair/ SignIn/20502. After registration, they will be able to scroll through and view this year’s 4-H livestock exhibitors. Add-ons will not be accepted during the live auction.

The other option is to be a part of the Buyer Support Group. This group is vital to the 4-H Livestock Auction. It was created to give additional funds to 4-H’ers who do not receive average sale lot prices. Donations enhance and balance overall financial support for each 4-H’er.

In 2022, donations of $11,290 were distributed to 57 youths. The following year, in 2023, donations of $12,275 were distributed to 57 youths. Persons who would like to contribute or have questions can contact Bruce Lamb at (574) 528-1259 or Amanda Tom at (574) 253-1616.

Auction committee volunteers, through FairEntry, will be on site the day of the auction taking payments via check or credit card. No cash can be accepted. All payments need to be made by Wednesday, July 31.

Coffee, donuts, lunch and an ice cream treat will be offered to buyers throughout the day on Friday, July 12.

Livestock show

Continued from page 7

Show Arena

6:30 p.m. Supreme Horse, Pony, Swine, Beef and Sheep Showmanship evening session in the Show Arena

Friday, July 12

9 a.m. 4-H Sale of Champions and Livestock Auction in the Show Arena

Sunday, July 14

2-5 p.m. 4-H General Project Pick-Up in the Shrine Building

2-5 p.m. Mini 4-H Project PickUp in the Shrine Building

Monday, July 15

9 a.m. to noon Final Day General and Mini Project Pick-Up in the Shrine Building

All projects must be picked up by noon. Extension officers will not be able to transport projects back to the extension office for pick-up, unless prior arrangements are made with Andrew Ferrell beforehand in writing or by email.The 4-H’ers can reach out to Ferrell by emailing adferrel@purdue.edu.

2023 GRAND CHAMPION HOLSTEIN Isaac Irwin is shown with his 2023 Grand Champion Holstein. This year’s annual Kosciusko County 4-H auction will be at 9 a.m. Friday, July 12, in the show arena. Registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. Photo by Deb Patterson.

COMMUNITY Kosciusko County

Nightly fair entertainment sure to excite

By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer

The Kosciusko County Community Fair will offer some thrilling evening entertainment at the grandstand each night. All grandstand events are free with paid admission. Optional pit passes, which grant access to the pit gates, are also available.

Daily admission to the fair is $4 from 5-11 p.m. Monday, July 8, and $8 for adults and $3 for seniors the rest of the week. Admission is free for children ages nine and under. Weekly passes are available for $40. Parking is free.

The motorized horse show, featuring ATVs and dirt bikes, is Monday, July 8. Pit gates will open early at 4:30 p.m. A driver’s meeting will take place at 6:30 p.m. and the show will officially begin at 7 p.m. Pit passes for this event are $15 for all ages.

On Tuesday, July 9 and Wednesday, July 10 will be the Extreme Monster Truck Madness show, which starts at 7 p.m. While

these are two different shows with different trucks, both will include a pit party beforehand at 6 p.m., where pit pass holders can take photos and participate in a truck driver meet and greet.

On Thursday, July 11, KOI dirt drag racing returns to the fair. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. Pit passes are $15 for adults and $6 for children.

On Friday, July 12, a demolition derby starts at 7 p.m. Pit gates will open at 3:30 p.m., with pit passes for this show at $30 for all ages. The grandstand gates open at 6 p.m. And finally, truck and tractor pulls will close out the fair’s events at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 13. Gates open at 6 p.m. and pit gates open at 6:30 p.m. Pit passes for this event are $15 for adults and $6 for children.

For more information, check out kcfair.com or contact the fair office at (574) 269-1823. The Kosciusko County Fairgrounds is located at 1400 Smith St., Warsaw.

Alice Keirn is 2024 Fair Parade’s Grand Marshal

Alice Keirn will serve as the grand marshal for the 2024 Kosciusko County Fair parade on July 7.

According to a statement from Kosciusko County Fair Director Nathan Rhoades, Keirn has been a long-time helper at the fair and is involved in the Home Extension group, along with many oth-

er groups throughout the county.

“As a former 10-year 4-H member myself, I remember when I would bring my pigs to be checked in, Alice was always there helping read ear marks and other duties in the swine barn,” said Rhoades.

The fair parade is at 3 p.m. Sunday, July 7.

Photo provided by Kosciusko County Fair.

ALICE KEIRN

COMMUNITY Kosciusko County

Daily attractions will be at the fair

By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer

The Kosciusko County Community Fair will feature two daily attractions this year, available to enjoy throughout the week. All attractions are free with admission, which is $4 from 5-11 p.m. Monday, July 8, and $8 for adults the rest of the week. Children 9 and under enter free.

Dino Encounters will have two to three shows each day from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Dino Encounters offers educational shows on different prehistoric time periods and the creatures, which lived in them

through audience participation, realistic dinosaur puppets, music and special effects. Audience members can also meet and interact with a variety of realistic, lifesized dinosaur puppets.

At the Kosciusko County Fair, different shows will take place each day, with a meet and greet with Rocky the T-Rex happening after the 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. shows Monday, July 8. For further details, visit kcfair.com.

Shows will take place in the event center at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Monday, July 8; 11:30 a.m., 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tuesday; 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Wednesday; 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Thurs-

day; 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Friday; and 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday.

Visitors can also check out the Dino Tent, which features a large motion dinosaur ride, games, a scooter area, an RC car area, dino prehistoric golf, Zorb’s T-Rex Obstacle Course and more.

Also at the fair each day will be Barnyard Party Pals, a fun and educational petting zoo experience. Both farm and exotic animals will be available to give fair goers a hands-on, up-close-andpersonal experience.

Barnyard Party Pals can be found in the event center area, all day, Monday through Saturday for kids and adults of all ages.

Fair kicks off with parade July 7

This year’s fair parade theme is “Kids, Country and the County Fair.”

It will begin lining up in the police department parking lot, 2191 Fort Wayne St., Warsaw at 2 p.m.

Sunday, July 7. The parade will step off at 3 p.m.

The parade is open to all community organizations and 4-H Clubs. To register an entry, contact the Kosciusko County Fair office at (574) 269-1823, and request a form sent via email or visit kcfair. com and download a form, which can be found un-

der the “fair” tab. The entry deadline is noon Sunday, July 7.

All entries need to have a brief written statement to be read as the entry passes the announcement stand.

The parade route will begin on Fort Wayne Street to North Harrison Street to Center Street to Bronson Street to the main entrance of the Kosciusko County Community Fairgrounds. Categories in the parade include: 4-H, antique vehicle, float, equestrian, commercial, best of theme and club. Equestrian units are required to provide their own manure clean up along the parade route.

Any questions can be directed to the fair office at (574) 269-1823.

BACK IN TIME Guests at Dino Encounters shows will be able to learn about prehistoric time periods and interact with a realistic dinosaur puppet. Photo provided by Dino Encounters.

COMMUNITY Kosciusko County

Kosciusko County Community Fair

The festivities kick off Sunday, July 7, and run through Saturday, July 13. The fair will open 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. This year’s theme is “”Kids, Country and the County Fair.”

Grandstand seating is free.

A paid ticket is required for pit passes. Paid admission does not guarantee grandstand seating.

A lunch pass is available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday through Friday at Main Gate C.

Purchase a yellow ticket pass at a main gate ticket booth with a $5 deposit and enter the main gate.

Tickets are $8 for adults and children ages 10 and up. Seniors age 65 and up are $3. Children 9 and younger may enter free. On Sunday, July 7, there will be free admission.

Return to the main gate by 2 p.m. for a full refund of the return of the yellow ticket.

Lunch passes are not valid for same day re-entry hand stamps.

Grandstand gates open at 6 p.m. with events beginning at 7 or 7:30 p.m.

Events include:

• Heavyweight horse pull, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, July 7.

• K-County Motorized rodeo, 7 p.m. Monday, July 8.

• Xtreme Monster Madness No.

1, 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, July 9.

• Xtreme Monster Madness No.

2, 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 10.

• KOI Drag Racing, 7 p.m. Thursday, July 11.

• T-N-T Demolition Derby, 7 p.m. Friday, July 12.

• Annual Truck and Tracker Pull, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 13.

Pit passes are available for an additional fee for the K-Motorized rodeo, Xtreme Monster Madness

1 and 2, KOI Drag Racing, T-N-T Demolition Derby, and the truck and tractor pulls.

Pit passes range from $15-$30 for adults.

For free on-grounds entertainment, the fair is hosting a dino tent, featuring a large motion dino ride, dino game area, prehistoric golf and more.

The Kosciusko County Fairgrounds are located at 1400 E. Smith St., Warsaw.

A RING FULL OF CALVES Shown is one of the dairy shows during the 2023 Kosciusko County Community Fair. This year’s dairy show will take place at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 6, with the Dairy Steer and Dairy Calf Feeder Steers taking place at 8 a.m. Wednesday, July 10. File photo.

HELPING OUT Gentry Colman wasn’t old enough to participate in the swine show for the county fair in 2023, but he was eager to help out cleaning the pen for his family’s swine. Photo by Deb Patterson.

DON’T MISS THE LLAMAS While visiting the livestock barns and tents at the county fair, don’t miss visiting the llamas and alpacas. There will be an alpaca show at 9 a.m. Sunday, July 7 and a llama show at 9 a.m. Tuesday, July 9, both at the show arena. There will also be a llama show at 9 a.m. Wednesday, July 10, at the Llama Tent. File photo

PREPARING FOR SHOW These two 4-H’ers prepare their sheep for show during the 2023 county fair. This year’s sheep show will be held at 4 p.m. Wednesday, July 10, in the show arena. File photo.

Ricky D. Allen

Ricky D. Allen, 62, died June 13, 2024.

He was born Jan. 31, 1962.

He is survived by his fiance, Sheila Kubley; daughter, Tequisha Oloizia; his sister, Chasta Smith; and canine companions, Casper, a pitbull/sharpei mix, and Bear, a golden retriever.

At this time, no services are to be held per the family’s wishes. Palmer Funeral Home-Bubb Chapel, Mishawaka, was in charge of arrangements. A private burial will take place at Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw, at a later date.

JD Aughinbaugh

JD Aughinbaugh, 77, North Manchester, died June 25, 2024.

He was born Aug. 19, 1946. On June 14, 1969, he married Delores Geiser; she survives.

Also surviving are his children, Rodney Aughinbaugh and Rachelle Aughinbaugh, both of North Manchester, and Rhonda Custer, Silver Lake; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Services were held June 29 at McKee Mortuary, North Manchester. Burial was in Ulrey Memorial Cemetery, Silver Lake.

28 at the American Legion, Pierceton. Burial with military honors was held at Hillcrest Cemetery, Pierceton. McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Pierceton, was in charge of arrangements.

Edward L. Barrus

Edward “Ed” L. Barrus, 96, Leesburg, died June 21, 2024.

He was born Feb. 12, 1928. On Dec. 18, 1949, he married Karolyn A. Cook; she survives.

He is also survived by a son, DeWayne Edward Barrus, LaPorte, Texas; daughter, Diane Elaine VanHuffel, Laughlin, Nev.; three grandchildren; and sister, Debra Spivey, Florida.

Services were held June 27 at Pleasant View Bible Church, Warsaw. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw, with military rites conducted by members of the American Legion Post 49, VFW Post 1126 and active-duty members of the Army Honor Guard. Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Larry W. Bechtold

Burial was in Fairview Cemetery, Servia.

Juanita Beeler

Juanita Beeler, 89, Pierceton, died June 20, 2024.

She was born Oct. 23, 1934. On June 9, 1961, she married Harold Beeler. He preceded her in death Sept. 16, 1999.

Surviving are nieces and nephews; and several cousins.

Services were held June 26 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw. Interment was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.

Kent L. Beer

Kent L. Beer, 75, Warsaw, died June 24, 2024.

He was born Aug. 12, 1948.

Surviving are siblings, Tom “Nip” Beer, Elkhart, Jan Beer, Goshen, and Tamara Graber, Syracuse; and nieces and nephews.

A funeral service was held June 27 at Mishler Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Milford. Burial followed at Milford Cemetery.

Janice Sue Bolin

He was born Sept. 10, 1963. On Aug. 19, 1994, he married Mary Caudle; she survives. Also surviving are daughters, Faith Clark Powell, Kokomo, and Rachel Clark, Mishawaka; his mother, Eleanor Clark Parrott, Luzerne, Mich.; and sisters, Sally Simons, Blytheville, Ark., and Peggy Clark Truman, Madison, Miss.

A celebration of life was held June 27 at First Church of God, Nappanee. Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee, was in charge of arrangements.

Rev. Van Crouch

Rev. Van Crouch, 80, died June 22, 2024.

He was born Oct. 19, 1943.

He is survived by a daughter, Wendy Potter, Evans City, Pa.; son, Brent Crouch, Warsaw; four grandchildren; and a brother, Collin Crouch, Nicholasville, Ky.

Oct. 24, 1998, he married Diane Robbins; she survives. Also surviving are his children, Zachary and Mandee Hartman, both of Elkhart; his mother, Sandra Hartman, Milford; and a sister.

Cremation took place at YoderCulp Crematory, Goshen. A celebration of life was held June 26 at Middlebury Community Church of the Nazarene, Middlebury.

Charles Duane Hendrix

Charles “Chuck” Duane Hendrix, 71, Wabash, died at 10:47 a.m. June 26, 2024.

He was born Dec. 30, 1952. On Dec. 31, 1975, he married Kim Matthews; she survives.

Also surviving are sons, Nick Hendrix, Fort Wayne, and T.J. Hendrix, Westfield; five grandchildren; mother, Jean Hendrix, Wabash; and brother, Bob Hendrix, Warsaw.

Visitation was held June 30 at Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, Wabash.

Caralee Hursey

Titus Funeral Home

Dennis Glenn Bailey

Dennis “Denny” Glenn Bailey, 73, died May 21, 2024.

Larry W. Bechtold, 80, North Manchester, died June 21, 2024. He was born May 14, 1944. On July 23, 1966, he married Dianna P. Stephan.

Janice Sue Bolin, 82, rural North Webster, formerly of Huntington, died June 21, 2024.

She was born June 16, 1942.

Services were held June 27 at Home Church, Warsaw. Burial was held June 29 at Pigeon Creek Cemetery, Eighty Four, Pa. RedpathFruth Funeral Home, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Brigitte

Ursula

Curtis

He was born March 31, 1950. In 1974, he married his wife, Susan. Surviving are his children, Kyle Bailey, Kendallville, and Kurt Bailey, Georgetown, Texas; six grandchildren; siblings, Diann, Gary, Kerry, Bret and Bart; nieces and nephews; and great-nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life was held June

Surviving are daughters, Lisa Bechtold and Patty Eltzroth, both of North Manchester, and Amanda Rhoades, South Whitley; brothers, Tom Bechtold, North Manchester, and Terry Bechtold, Urbana; sister, Shelba Neher, North Manchester; two grandchildren; and four greatgrandchildren.

Have A Wonderful

Services were held June 27 at McKee Mortuary, North Manchester.

She is survived by a daughter, Kristene Harris, rural North Webster; three grandchildren; sisters-inlaw, Sue Horrell, Huntington, and Billie Horrell, Warren; three nieces; and a nephew.

Services were held June 28 at North Webster Church of God, North Webster. Burial was in Clear Creek Cemetery, Huntington. Titus Funeral Home of North Webster was in charge of arrangements.

Anna Lee Boocher

Anna Lee Boocher, 96, North Manchester, died June 22, 2024.

She was born Oct. 9, 1927.

Surviving are nieces and nephews; and great-nieces and nephews.

Services were held June 28 at North Manchester Old German Baptist Brethren Church. Burial was in North Manchester Old German Baptist Brethren Cemetery. McKee Mortuary, North Manchester, was in charge of arrangements.

Peter Brooks

Peter Brooks, 86, died June 14, 2024.

Brigitte Ursula (Lauffer) Curtis, 74, North Manchester, died June 20, 2024.

She was born April 7, 1950. On Nov. 10, 2001, she married John Curtis; he survives.

Also surviving are sons, Jeff Curtis and James Curtis, both of North Manchester; daughter, Carole Weller, Plainfield, Ill.; siblings, George Lauffer and Ray Lauffer, both of Oklahoma City, Okla., and Sarah Long, Copperas Cove, Texas; nieces and nephews; great-niece and nephews; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Caralee Hursey, 91, Syracuse, died June 22, 2024.

Arrangements are currently pending at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse.

Jeffrey Robert Jarrett

Jeffrey Robert Jarret, 47, died June 19, 2024.

He was born May 28, 1977.

He is survived by his wife, Beth Jarrett; his children, Connor and Allison Jarrett; and his mother, Judy Jarrett.

He was born May 13, 1938. He married Frances Brook, who preceded him in death.

He is survived by a sister, Christine Chadwick, Bury, England; daughters, Barbara A. Schuetz, Edgerton, Wis., and Bernadette Kelsey, Warsaw; seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, July 9, at St. Therese Little Flower Catholic Church, 54191 N. Ironwood Road, South Bend, where friends may visit with the family one hour prior to services. Private burial will take place in Southlawn Cemetery, South Bend. Palmer Funeral Home-River Park is assisting the family with arrangements.

Steven David Clark

Steven David Clark, 60, Nappanee, died at 11:11 a.m. June 22, 2024.

Joshua Ryan

Dickmeyer

McKee Mortuary, North Manchester, was in charge of arrangements.

Joshua Ryan Dickmeyer, 46, died June 23, 2024.

He was born Aug. 4, 1977.

He is survived by his father, Stephen Dickmeyer, North Manchester; brother, Brandon Dickmeyer, Fort Wayne; sister, Jena Faye Dickmeyer, Maples; five nephews; and one niece.

A private graveside service will be held at Oaklawn Cemetery, North Manchester, at a later date. McKee Mortuary, North Manchester, was in charge of arrangements.

Deborah Garman

Deborah “Deb” Garman, 62, died June 13, 2024.

She was born Oct. 14, 1961. She married Bud Garman, who survives.

Also surviving are her children, Eric Garman, Michael Garman and Kristina Garman; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and her mother, Nelva Rickman Hoene.

The family is grieving privately. No services will be held at this time. Titus Funeral Home of North Webster was in charge of arrangements.

Jack R. Hartman

Jack R. Hartman, 54, Elkhart, died June 23, 2024.

Services were held June 26 at Indiana Funeral Care’s Harry W. Moore Chapel.

James Anthony Krzyzanowski

James Anthony Krzyzanowski, 62, Leesburg, died June 22, 2024.

He was born Jan. 13, 1962.

He is survived by his wife, Wendy (Kirsch) Krzyzanowski; son, Michael Victor Krzyzanowski; stepchildren, Melanie Verburg-Williams and Brian Woolwine; four grandchildren; siblings, Michael Krzyzanowski, John Krzyzanowski, Mary Ross and Joseph Krzyzanowski; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and greatnephews; and his dogs, Cooper and Blondie.

A memorial service was held June 29 at Buszka Funeral Home, Seneca, N.Y. A graveside service took place at Saint Adalbert Cemetery, Lancaster, N.Y. Titus Funeral Home of North Webster was in charge of arrangements.

David Leon Main

David Leon Main, 77, North Webster, died at 5:56 p.m. June 18, 2024.

He was born May 15, 1947.

Survivors include his children, Kristopher Main, Denver, and Konnie Scott, Rochester; five grandchildren; and a great-grandchild.

Services will be announced at a later date. Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester.

Larry L. Miller

Larry L. Miller, 87, Marietta Ga., died June 9, 2024.

He was born Sept. 22, 1969. On Continued on page 13

Continued from page 12

He was born April 17, 1937. On Sept. 9, 1955, he married Bettie Jean (Scarberry) Miller; she survives.

Also surviving are sons, Jeffrey Miller, Marietta, Ga., and Greg Miller, Bradenton, Fla.; two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; brothers, Rodney, Middlebury, Frederick, Indianapolis, and Marlin, Bradenton, Fla.; and sister, Sandra Coy, Fort Wayne. Graveside services were held June 29 at Syracuse Cemetery. Celebration of life followed at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse.

William R. Mitchell

William R. “Butch” Mitchell, 86, Warsaw, died June 24, 2024.

He was born May 17, 1938. On Nov. 17, 1978, he married Nancy J. Taylor; she survives.

Also surviving are sons, Sean Patrick, Indianapolis, and Scott Mitchell, Warsaw; four grandchildren; sister, Sheila Snell, Indianapolis; best friend and adopted son, Jack “Mitchell” Phlipot, Fort Wayne; many nieces and nephews; sister-in-law, Linda McLaughlin, Warsaw; and brother-inlaw, Bill Taylor, Warsaw.

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

Geneva Kay Ousley

Geneva Kay Ousley, 66, Milford, died June 21, 2024.

She was born Jan. 19, 1958. On Oct. 13, 1978, she married Timothy Collins.

Surviving are her children, Christopher Collins and Samantha Olson; two grandchildren; brothers, Frank Kelley Jr., Michael Kelley and Patrick Kelley; half brother, Bruce Pendry; and several nieces and nephews.

Friends and family may gather from 5-7 p.m. Friday, July 12, at Titus Funeral Home, 1001 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. A memorial service will follow at 7 p.m.

Larry Raber

Larry Raber, 85, Warsaw, died June 26, 2024.

He was born July 25, 1938. On Dec. 6, 1959, he married Norma Jean Lambert; she survives.

Also surviving are daughters, Donna Ritchie, Warsaw, Deanna Smith, Akron, and Debra Cook, California; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sister, Betty Ballew, Kokomo; and many nieces and nephews.

Services were held July 2 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw, with military honors.

Monte Lynn Ramer

Monte Lynn Ramer, 75, Albion, died June 19, 2024.

He was born Jan. 14, 1949.

Surviving are his children, Leslie Ramer, Leo, Nick Ramer, Fort Wayne, and Shauna Ramer, Columbia City; four grandchildren; and a special friend, Penelope Jones, New Haven.

Services were held June 26 at Stone’s Hill Community Church, Ligonier. Burial was in Orange Township Cemetery. Yeager Funeral Home, Ligonier, was in charge of arrangements.

Rolland Shepherd

Rolland Shepherd, 78, died June 26, 2024.

He was born Dec. 15, 1945. On May 5, 1973, he married Judy Prater. She preceded him in death April 13, 2014.

He is survived by a brother, Goble Shepherd, Warsaw; and seven nieces and nephews.

Services were held July 1 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw. Burial was in Lakeview Cemetery, Silver Lake.

Ruthie J. Sitts

Ruthie J. Sitts, 81, Warsaw, died at 11:19 a.m. June 23, 2024.

She was born July 20, 1942. On Aug. 12, 1995, she married Billy E. “Butch” Sitts Sr.; he survives.

Also surviving are her children, David Moore, Ossian, Teresa Steffe and Curt Moore, both of Warsaw, Peggy Anglin, Akron, and Billy Sitts Jr., Cromwell; 16 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren and greatgreat-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, July 5, at Akron Cemetery. Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron, is in charge of arrangements.

Galen Strycker

Galen “Brad” Strycker, 92, Goshen, died June 23, 2024.

He was born Jan. 27, 1932. On July 19, 1953, he married A. Joretta Troyer; she survives.

Also surviving are his children, Bradley Strycker and Lori Trosper, both of Goshen, Donna Agnew, West Lafayette, Benita Shaw, Nappanee, and Jamie Strycker, Wakarusa; 13 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and a brother, E. Max Strycker, Goshen.

A memorial service was held June 28 at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen. Burial of his cremated remains will be at West Goshen Cemetery at a later date.

Renee Lynn Thomas

Renee Lynn Thomas, 75, rural Pierceton, died at 12:30 a.m. June 23, 2024.

She was born Oct. 5, 1948. On Sept. 1, 1989, she married David L. Thomas; he survives. Also surviving are her children, Jodie Brown and Charity Myers, both of Columbia City, Julie McCormick, Avilla, and Angella Oliver, Churubusco; a stepson, Toby Thomas, Pierceton; eight grandchildren; eight greatgrandchildren; and a sister, Gretta Guisinger, Phoenix, Ariz.

A celebration of life will be held from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, July 7, at Smith and Sons Coachroom, 205 N. Main St., Columbia City.

Jack Allen Town

Jack Allen Town, 88, Warsaw, died June 26, 2024.

He was born June 11, 1936. On Oct. 8, 1960, he married Margaret “Peg” Elizabeth Campbell. She preceded him in death Dec. 27, 2023.

He is survived by a daughter, Robin L. Town, Kenosha, Wis.; son, Allen Town, Winthrop Harbor, Ill.; three grandchildren; sisters, Janet Bridegroom, Juanita Yoder and Judy Evans; and many nieces and nephews.

Services were held June 29 at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw. A graveside service with military rites followed at Rochester IOOF Cemetery.

David Wright

David “Moe” Wright, 82, Milford, died June 20, 2024.

He was born April 8, 1942. On March 19, 1966, he married Luz Soto Torres; she survives.

He is also survived by a daughter, Logina A. Vuittonet, Milford; three grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and siblings, Danny Wright, Milford, Sybil Bradley and Sylvia Wilson, both of Florida.

Visitation was held June 25 at Mishler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, Milford. A graveside service was held June 26 at Milford Cemetery.

C ounty R

Court News

Small Claims

The following small claims have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Sanchez Enterprises, LLC v. Andrew Denney, Fantasy Wallis, $4,058.39

Warsaw Health System LLC d/b/a Kosciusko Community Hospital v. Mickel Gentry, $1,053.57; v. Richard Piper, $839.39; v. Ocxiel Sanchez, $1,792.44; v. Amanda Smith, $7,671.49; v. Ashley Steinecker, $1,012.23; v. George Turczi III, $1,009.44; v. Tracy Varney, $4,685.39 Civil Collections

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

CommunityWide Federal Credit Union v. Patrick A. Burchett, a/k/a Patrick Alan Burchett, $8,461.48

Credit Corp Solutions Inc. v. Danielle Chesher, $3,260.66

Gateway Financial Solutions v. Kelsey Coplin, $18,853.51

Midland Credit Management Inc. v. Alicia Dese, $1,321.39

BSREP II MH, Heritage Capital v. Anthony Fitzpatrick, $49,111.01

Spring Oaks Capital SPV LLC v. Jon E. Hershberger, $5,440.18

CKS Prime Investments LLC v. Greta C. Hurd, $1,300.23; v. Larita L. Mason, $1,557.81

SAC Finance Inc. v. Kamryn D. Keeling, $10,398.38

OneMain Financial Group LLC v. David Kiser, $8,695.52

Mariner Finance LLC v. Jordan D. Lively, Savanah L. Owens, $1,212.56;v. Maira J. Villa, $3,683.27

Prestige Financial Services Inc. v. Laura L. Northern, George Rodriguez, $28,302.67

Crown Asset Management LLC v. Bradley Prater, $1,022.99

JP Morgan Chase Bank NA v. Akshay Venkat Shinde, $18,127.57

Capital One NA v. Nicole Wiseman, $3,076.54

Evictions

The following evictions have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Ron Cernauskas v. Holly Oland, $5,627

Sherri Makinson v. Savannah Olinger, $5,170

Mortgage Foreclosures

The following mortgage foreclosures have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Freedom Mortgage Corp. v. Sarah J. Kenney, $57,466.80

Newrez LLC, d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing (f/k/a Specialized Loan Servicing LLC) v. Cynthia L. Scott, $27,347.27

Plenaries

The following plenaries have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court I, Judge Karin McGrath presiding: Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance, a/s/o Osborne v. Natasha K. Yates, a/k/a Natsha K. Lowery

Christine A. Hall v. Justin Kemper and Kevin A. Kemper, Lake City Builders II LLC, $20,822

Superior Court III

The following fines for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Speeding — Tylor S. Sweet, Syracuse, $164.50; v. Rasheedat A. Akinola, Warsaw, $164.50; Joshua P. Boillat, Rochester, $164.50; Isaiah L. Jones, Millersburg, $164.50; Lauren A. Sasso, Warsaw, $164.50; Mary A. Marshall, Burket, $164.50; v. Amber G. Reynolds, Warsaw, $164.50; Lamar R. Schwartz, Warsaw, $160.50

Failure to register — Paul M. Stearley, Warsaw, $164.50; Kasey D. Benedict, North Manchester, $164.50

Violation passenger on a motorcycle or motor driven cycle

A — Patrick A. Overholt, Warsaw, $164

Driving while suspended Jose S. Nunez Sauza, Warsaw, $189.50; John J. Kuipers, Syracuse, $189.50; Dylan D. King, Tippecanoe, $189.50

Disregarding lighted signal — Rosalinda L. Lagos-Molina, Leesburg, $164.50

Disregarding stop sign, speeding — Nataliy NevarezRamirez, Warsaw, $189.50

Distracted driving — Rebekah A. Leitch, Larwill, $164.50; Jensine M. Stroh, Etna Green, $164.50

Disregarding an official traffic control device — Tommy L. Holbrook, Warsaw, $164.50

Motor vehicle lights/reflectors violation — Joshua W. Mohr, Leesburg, $164.50

Operating an unregistered off-road vehicle or snowmobile on public property — Steven Paul Haberman, Warsaw, $127.30

Evan Ken Yoder

James and Suanne (Lambright) Yoder, Bristol, are the parents of a son, Evan Ken, born at 1:23 a.m. June 14, 2024. He weighed 6 pounds, 11.5 ounces, and was 20 1/2 inches long.

Maternal grandparents are Jerry and Lydia Anne Lambright, Middlebury. Paternal grandparents are Steve and Sharon Yoder, Nappanee. Evan joins two siblings: Felicity Anne and Elliot James.

Carson Malachi Helmuth

Lynn and Luann (Miller) Helmuth, Millersburg, are the parents of a son, Carson Malachi, born at 6:04 p.m. June 23, 2024, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 7 pounds, 6 ounces, and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Maternal grandparents are Freeman and Suetta Miller. Paternal grandparents are Mary and Ernie Helmuth.

Carson joins a sister, Chloe.

Adrian Michael Miller

Kevin and Martha (Mullet) Miller, Milford, are the parents of a son, Adrian Michael, born at 10:27 p.m. June 23, 2024, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 7 pounds, 5 ounces, and was 20 1/2 inches long.

Maternal grandparents are Ben and MaryEtta Mullet. Paternal grandparents are Earl and Edna Miller.

Brantley Layne Ramer

Jeryl and Olivia (Martin) Ramer, Elkhart, are the parents of a son, Brantley Layne, born at 8:13 a.m. June 24, 2024, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 7 pounds, 14 ounces, and was 20 inches long.

Hayden Lee Thompson

Tyler and Cheyanne Thompson, Nappanee, are the parents of a son, Hayden Lee, born at 10:23 p.m. June 26, 2024, at Goshen Hospital. He weighed 7 pounds, 8.1 ounces, and was 21 inches long.

Nelson joins inaugural Youth Worker Well-Being Project

Through the Emerging Leaders of Color Fellowship, the Youth Worker Well-Being Project aims to tackle the need for leadership diversity in Indiana’s youth-serving sector by investing in youth workers of color’s skill sets and foster more inclusive youth organizations statewide.

Selena Nelson of Kosciusko County was among the 37 exceptional youth workers of color from across the state selected to join the Emerging Leaders of Color Fellowship through a competitive application process, which considered their aspirations or current leadership in a youth-serving organization, as well as commitment to a career in youth services. Nelson serves as director of Kosciusko Teen Court.

Participants will engage in an intensive six-month training and development series designed to enhance leadership capabilities and provide opportunities to cultivate robust,

community networks.

Monthly sessions will cover topics like adaptive leadership, navigating crucial conversations, community building and sustainability and strategic direction from a diverse team of highly-qualified facilitators and speakers, equipping the cohort to lead and grow thriving youth-serving organizations.

A second round of applications for the Emerging Leaders of Color Fellowship will launch in August.

The Youth Worker Well-Being Project is a collaborative statewide effort to address individual youth workers’ well-being, workplace conditions and root causes of stress in the sector with the goal to promote meaningful change in youth workers and invest in their well-being so they can provide the highestquality services for Indiana youth.

Other recently launched programs include tele-medicine and virtual mental health ser-

vices, peer support groups and grant opportunities.

The youth work profession includes staff from youth development organizations and service bureau staff, mental health counselors, child and family welfare professionals, mentors, family support clinicians, residential treatment staff and others at community-based organizations.

Through the work, Indiana’s youth-serving professionals impact more than 1.5 million children under 18 across the state. Children benefit when professionals are engaged, aware of the needs of youth and families, knowledgeable about best practices and when they can effectively cope with stress.

Interested Indiana youth workers and youth-serving organizations can learn more about the next round of fellowship applications and other project initiatives at iyi.org/ youth-worker-well-being-project.

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Sales and Marketing Director

We are looking for an accomplished Sales and Marketing Director with a solid background in the publishing industry and extensive sales experience. The ideal candidate will be marketing-savvy, well-versed in both print and digital marketing strategies, and possess a comprehensive understanding of advertising, print media, email campaigns, website analytics, digital marketing, SEO, and current digital marketing trends. This role manages over 40 marketing professionals, including a local sales team and a remote team that covers three states.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute effective sales and marketing strategies to drive revenue growth for both print and digital platforms.

• Lead and manage a team of over 40 marketing professionals, including a local sales team and a remote team across three states, to achieve and exceed sales targets.

• Analyze market trends and competitor activities to identify new opportunities and improve existing strategies.

• Oversee digital marketing efforts, including the development of digital platforms, email campaigning, SEO marketing, and website analytics to optimize online presence.

• Collaborate with editorial and production teams to ensure alignment of sales and marketing initiatives with content strategies.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, partners, and stakeholders.

• Monitor and report on team sales and proﬁt performance.

Qualiﬁcations:

• Proven experience in the publishing industry, with a strong track record in sales and marketing.

• Extensive sales experience with a demonstrated ability to achieve and exceed targets.

• In-depth knowledge of print and digital marketing, including email campaigns, website analytics, and SEO.

• Strong understanding of current advertising and digital marketing trends, and best practices.

• Excellent leadership and team management skills, with experience managing a large team.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work on-site at our Milford, Indiana corporate ofﬁce.

Why Join Us:

• Be part of a family-owned company with a rich history and a strong presence in the publishing industry.

• Work in a dynamic and collaborative environment.

• Lead a talented team and make a signiﬁcant impact on our growth and success.

• Competitive salary and beneﬁts package.

Send email and send resume to: rbaumgartner@the-papers.com

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5 & 20 Country Restaurant Complete Liquidation Auction

10 a.m. Monday, July 8. Located at intersection of SR 5 and U.S. 20, Shipshewana. Antique furniture, kitchen equipment and appliances, display cases, diesel generator and more. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction. com.

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Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.

Public Antique Auction

9 a.m. Friday, July 12. Located at Chupp Auction Center, 890 S. Van Buren St., Shipshewana. Syracuse Lake Waterfront Auction

at 1582 SR 114, North Manchester. Oil paintings, photographs, cross stitch, advertisements, Victorian girls, Terry Redlin, hunting scenes and more. Bid online at metzgerauction.com.

Metzger Property Services

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3 p.m. Wednesday, July 17.

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Cloud Public Auction

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10 a.m. Saturday, July 13. Located at 12967 N. Eastshore Drive, Syracuse. Open house 9-11 a.m. Saturday, July 6 or by appointment; 3,450 sq. ft. house on 90’ by 220’ lot, 90’ of waterfront. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.

Online Only Coin, Currency and Marble Auction Bidding open until 7 p.m. Sunday, July 14. Pickup located at 1582 SR 114, North Manchester. Silver dollars, coins, currency, including state notes, red and blue seal, coin books, marbles, proof sets, foreign currency. Bid online at metzgerauction.com. Metzger Property Services.

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Farm Real Estate Auction

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Real Estate Auction

6 p.m. Tuesday, July 23. Located at 3208 N. 150E, Warsaw. Tract 1: Country home, 3-bed, 2-bath with two-car attached garage and pond on 12 acres. Tract 2: Additional cropland acreage potential building site. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.

Syracuse Library welcomes young readers to an adventure

This year’s children’s summer reading program will run from Monday, June 3, through Friday, July 19 at the Syracuse-Turkey Creek Township Public Library. The theme for the children’s summer reading program is “Adventure Awaits at your Library.”

All ages can sign up for a chance to win prizes. Everyone can start signing up Saturday, June 1, at the Syracuse Public Library or via the new Beanstack app.

The Beanstack app, sponsored by the Friends of the Syracuse Public Library, will be used to track summer reading this year for all age groups. Beanstack is an app that can be downloaded to your mobile device for free from either the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store. Once downloaded, set up an account and join the Syracuse Public Library (IN) community, or ask an SPL librarian to help you get signed up.

Parents, you can track all of your children’s summer reading on one account by adding multiple readers (yourself included if you are doing the adult summer reading program).

Don’t forget to enter your raffle tickets or have a librarian do it for you. The last day to enter logs is July 19.

Paper recording for the books read is still available, but the Beanstack app is preferred. According to the library’s website, library card or no library card, children and teens can participate in the Syracuse Public Library’s summer reading activities. This program is tailored to stop the summer slide by keeping children engaged in learning and reading.

Free Fairfield summer library cards are back at the SyracuseTurkey Creek Township Public Library till Thursday, Aug. 1. These cards are made possible by the Fairfield Schools Literacy Fund, created by an anonymous donor who wanted to stop the summer slide for students living in the Fairfield Schools district. Cards all expire on Saturday, Aug. 31. Qualifying children must live in Benton, Clinton or Jackson townships with eligible ages all the way up to 12th graders.

Time Around the World.” The events on June 6 and July 18 will require registration.

Globe-trotting Fridays take place at 2 p.m. and also feature a different continent each week.

Jet Set Family Nights will happen twice starting with “Taste of the World” on Tuesday, June 11, and “Space, Out of this World” on Tuesday, July 9. Both events start at 5 p.m. with the Taste of the World event requiring registration.

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The children’s program will include “Storytime Across the Globe” with a new continent featured every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m.

Thursdays at 2 p.m. is “Tween

The end of summer party is 1:30-3 p.m. Friday, July 19. Foamzilla returns at 2 p.m. for a giant foam party. For teens, the end of summer party is a beach party at Lakeside Park from 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 18.

Local graduates announced

LeTourneau University recognizes spring graduates, who received bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Among them were Matthew Metzler, New Paris, with a Bachelor of Science in aeronautical science.

Goshen College recently recognized 182 graduates as a part of the class of 2024 during its com-

mencement ceremony April 28. This was the 126th Goshen College commencement ceremony. The message was delivered by Glen Guyton, executive director of Mennonite Church USA. Among the graduates were Olivia K. Lilly, Syracuse, undergraduate; and Gwyneth P. Bellamy, Warsaw, undergraduate.

FAMILY PAINT NIGHT — From left, Scarlett and Megan Daumen hold their in-progress canvases. Photo provided by Syracuse Public Library.

Beacon Credit Union kicks off Project Spotlight voting

Beacon Credit Union’s Project Spotlight kicked off voting Monday, July 1, and voting will end Wednesday, July 31. The credit union encourages everyone in the community to vote for their favorite cause, either online or in their local Beacon Member Center.

Each individual may vote once per day, per community. After voting, the public may share to Facebook or X (formerly Twitter) and encourage others to vote for their favorite organization.

Last year’s Project Spotlight received more than 37,000 votes in the one-month period.

Beacon Credit Union received more than 120 nominations earlier this spring via member center and online submissions.

The credit union created the Project Spotlight program to help shine a light and bring awareness to the many local charitable organizations making a difference in communities. The credit union will pick winners from all 13

communities where the Beacon full-service member centers are located.

The project in each community with the most votes will win $1,000 from Beacon Credit Union. The second-place winner will receive $500, and a third-place winner will be randomly drawn to receive $250. The total amount of money donated to charitable organizations in Indiana by Beacon Credit Union through Project Spotlight in 2024 will be $22,750.

Letter to the editor Have a safe Fourth of July: Please don’t smoke near fireworks

Dear Editor,

We hope you all are as excited to celebrate our nation’s liberation as we are this Fourth of July.

While fireworks are a beloved tradition that brings joy and excitement to our communities, they also pose significant risks if not handled with care. One of the most dangerous scenarios is smoking near fireworks. The combination of lit cigarettes and explosive materials can lead to disastrous consequences, including accidental ignitions, severe burns and even fatalities.

Fireworks are inherently vola-

We welcome readers’ letters.

tile and require safety measures to prevent accidents. Introducing an open flame, such as a cigarette, into an environment where fireworks are present dramatically increases the risk of unintended explosions. It is not just the person smoking who is at risk but also bystanders who could be affected by an unexpected blast. Here are some recommendations to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday:

Designated smoking areas: Establish clearly marked smoking areas well away from where

fireworks are being handled or stored.

Enhanced supervision: Ensure that responsible adults supervise fireworks displays and strictly enforce no-smoking rules in and around these areas.

For those who wish to quit smoking, you can reach out to (800) QUIT-NOW for free coaching and even nicotine patches, gums, etc., to help you on your journey.

Have a fun and safe Fourth of July, everyone.

Alanna Weidenbenner Breathe Well Coalition

Our requirements are as follows: Letters must be written to the editor, not the public. They must be signed with full name in ink. Signatures will be printed on all letters. Letters must include an address and phone number, which will be used for verification, but will not be published. Letters may be emailed to dpatterson@the-papers.com. Again, letters must include an address and phone number. We ask that letters be limited to 400 words. Letters longer than 400 words may be edited for brevity. Writers may be limited to one published letter per month. Readers with lengthy comments should contact an editor about possible guest columns. Send letters to: ‘the PAPER,’114 W. Market St., Warsaw, IN 46580.

ALL THINGS INDIANA Last year’s Tippecanoe Flotilla theme was “Tippy Toons,” meaning there were a lot of loony-looking boats on the water. This year’s flotilla is at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 6. The themed is “All Things Indiana.” Photo by Lauren Zeugner.

Tippy Flotilla to

honor ‘All Things Indiana’

The 2024 Lake Tippecanoe Flotilla will be honoring “All Things Indiana,” which is this year’s theme. The Indy 500, the Brickyard, the Colts, the Pacers, and Indiana’s state colleges are all potential float ideas.

Registration will be 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, July 6, at the Patona Bay Snack Shop. Participants should plan to meet lakeside by the snack shop before taking off at 1 p.m.

The rules for flotilla participation are as follows:

• Be on time.

• Stay in line and obey the directions of the patrol boats.

• Do not throw any promotional items from a float or shore.

• Do not jump from your float while in line.

Cash awards are handed out to all registered participants. For more information, visit ltpo.org/flotilla.

Young Tiger Football program to celebrate 20 years since dedication of Fribley Field

Young Tiger Football and Cheerleading has announced a 20th anniversary celebration of the dedication of Fribley Field in honor of Marine Lance Cpl. David K. Fribley.

Fribley was killed in active duty in Iraq in 2003, and Fribley Field, located at 700 E. Market St., Warsaw, was dedicated in his honor.

A celebration to mark two decades since the original dedication will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 17; the public is invited to attend.

Fribley was the first person from Warsaw to be killed in the Iraq War. He was born and raised in Atwood. Before moving away for college, he played football and ran track for Warsaw Community Schools.

After college, Fribley lived in Florida, using his degree from Indiana State to organize activities for retirees. After the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States, Fribley decided to join the U.S. Marine Corps. On March 23, 2003, Fribley and nine other Marines were gunned down by a group of terrorists, who pretended to surrender and then opened fire. He was 26 at the time. After his death, Fribley Field was dedicated and became the new home for Young Tiger Football, Oct. 4, 2004.

When the terrorist attacks of 9/11 rocked the country, Young Tiger Football was just a dream. It started with nothing — no equipment, no field.

“We literally just went around and asked people for money,” recalled Coach Dave McCool. “Once people heard what we were trying to do, they were excited to help. Next thing you know, two years after the first team with 14 kids, we are having a field built and our community behind us.”

“We just wanted to help our football program, in our small town, be the best it could be,” McCool

continued. “It just made sense to start from the bottom and work your way up with cooperation and collaboration by all the programs in town. Now, of course, trying to do something like that had its bumps and bruises along the way, but working with Coach Curtis and his staff at WCHS for the last six years has been a dream. Warsaw Football, from our 8U rookie tackle to our varsity team, we are doing it right.”

The coming season marks 20 years since the first dedication.

Warsaw Community High School Football and Cheerleading will help Young Tiger Football and Cheerleading celebrate and be involved in the festivities Aug. 17.

Young Tiger Football and Cheerleading is planning for a wide range of military involvement during the event, including presentation of the colors up to a possible flyover. They also plan to honor Fribley’s family and a few other vital donors, sponsors and friends of Young Tiger Football and Cheerleading.

The public is welcome to join in the celebration. A scrimmage including Young Tiger Football, both Warsaw middle schools and Warsaw Community High School will take place at the Tiger Athletic Complex later that day. Times and details are yet to be determined.

MARINE LANCE

CPL. DAVID K. FRIBLEY