Fred Helfrich turns retirement into BICYCLE ADVOCACY
By NATHAN PACE Staff Writer
At the age of 76, Fred Helfrich can still be seen around Kosciusko County enjoying his favorite method of transportation. Helfrich is active in both advocating for bicycle trails and safety while also riding them himself.
Helfrich is active with the Kosciusko County Velok and is also on the board of directors for Bicycle Indiana.
“We’ve done a lot over the last dozen years or so. We’ve gotten ourselves designated as a bicycle friendly community for Warsaw and Winona Lake. We just resubmitted our application for that,” Helfrich said.
Helfrich says advocacy is a key piece of what the KCV aims to do when it comes to establishing trails and making area infrastructure safer for bicyclists to travel. He admits Warsaw can be a tricky area for cyclists given the lakes, railroads
and highways that can box cyclists in.
“Making sure there are proper crossing infrastructures along that US 30 route, otherwise you have barriers. We already have enough barriers. We have two railroad tracks. The railroad companies don’t like you crossing their tracks with a bicycle. You have three lakes in the city. Those present physical barriers.”
One of his goals is to help connect Warsaw to the Great American Rail-Trail, a trail for cyclists to traverse America from Washington D.C. to Seattle. In Indiana, the trail will reach nearby Rochester before pivoting northwest to Chicago.
“We are in a prime spot to connect,” Helfrich said.
In addition to advocacy, Helfrich is still riding his bicycle great distances. He regularly participates in the Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa and has no plans to slow down after retirement. Helfrich was a financial advisor at SYM Financial Advisors for 40 years.
“I loved bicycles. I’ve been involved with them before I retired. I did this ride across Iowa nine times from 2000 to 2010. I will do that again this year,” Helfrich said.
The cycle ride through Iowa takes seven days and makes stops in rural towns. One town is Greenville, Iowa, a town the bikers want to give back to after it took a direct hit from a tornado in May.
“Their population is 2,600. Small town, rural community but yet they are going to set up and host 15,000 people for lunch as they passed through,” Helfrich said.
Fred will be joined by fellow KCV members in Mike Cusick, Rob Bishop, Vaughn Latham, Greg Demopoulos and Tom Wogoman on the trip.
They hired a company that will charter their gear during the trip. One aspect Helfrich enjoys is his bike with an electric assist so he can stay up with the younger cyclists.
Continued on page 4
READY TO RACE — Members from the Kosicusko County Velo will be bicycling across Iowa this month. Members making the trip include, pictured from left, Fred Helfrich, Mike Cusick, Rob Bishop, Vaughn Latham, Greg Demopoulos and Tom Wogoman. Photo by Nathan Pace.
K now Y our n eighbor
Owen is the unofficial historian of Nappanee
By KEITH KNEPP Staff Writer
While she originally may be from Wakarusa, Martha Owen can tell you just about anything you’d ever want to know about the history of Nappanee. Officially, she’s the manager of the Evelyn Lehman Culp Heritage Collection at the Nappanee Center, the city’s historical museum. She’s technically employed by the Nappanee Public Library, which oversees the collection of historical pieces.
A 2005 graduate of NorthWood High School, Owen continued her education at Bethel College, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in history, and then a master’s degree in library and information science from IUPUI.
In 2010, she came to work for the Nappanee Public Library after applying for a part-time clerk’s position. She had worked in the Missionary Church archives when she was in college, which led the library to offer the position with the Heritage Collection. In 2015, the library made her a full-time employee at the Nappanee Center, although she worked an occasional shift behind the adult services desk
at the library. In 2020 her role shifted to strictly being at the museum.
“I develop exhibits and do research about Nappanee,” she said. “I create programs, as well, such as ‘Hit the Pavement’ historic Nappanee walking tours; ‘Night at the Museum,’ which is a staple program that brings Nappanee history to life every year; and a podcast, ‘Evie’s History Bytes.”
Owen said she also works on preserving Nappanee’s history, figuring out new ways to bring it to the community electronically and digitally.
“Since 2017, we’ve been working on digitization of various items,” she said. “All the Nappanee High School yearbooks are digitized and available online. The entire run of the ‘Nappanee Advance News’ from 1879-2018 is also digitized and available online. Old Nappanee photos are also scanned and available. Our multimedia collection — our cassette tapes, eight millimeter, Super 8s, 16 millimeter — are all digitized and available online.”
Some of the films available include old Nappanee High School football games and early NorthWood High School basketball games. The cassette
tapes include oral histories that were compiled by Evelyn Lehman Culp in the 1970s, documenting the stories of Nappanee residents. All this is available as part of the library’s website, nappaneelibrary.org/elchc/.
“The foot traffic (at the Nappanee Center) varies,” Owen said. “During the summer, it’s
a little bit higher than normal. May through September is our higher foot traffic, then we kind of peter off in October through April.”
Owen said her favorite part of her job is getting to meet people and hear their stories.
“We have people who come in and will look at a kitchen cabinet and share their own
memories and stories,” she said. “A lot of our artifacts bring back childhood memories that people can relate to.
“If we don’t preserve history, then it’s lost. We maintain 50,000 items of Nappanee history. We’ve started to switch gears a little bit and have started to collect ‘the history of tomorrow.’ For example, in our high school room, we’ve started collecting pieces from NorthWood High School, such as a signed basketball from the boys basketball championship. We know that in the future, this is going to be history. Being able to have that available is really important.”
Outside of her job, Owen and her husband, Eli, enjoy exploring Elkhart County and the surrounding areas have to offer. She said she does go to a lot of different museums, walking paths, bike trails and different parks. The couple is expecting their first child in November.
“The Heritage Collection has grown a lot in the past four years,” she concluded. “But we are still thinking forward on how it can grow more. ... We are looking at our exhibits in the museum and reinterpreting those and changing our signage. This is a hidden gem here.”
The Evelyn Lehman Culp Heritage Collection inside the Nappanee Center is located at 302 W Market St, For further information, call (574) 7737812.
MUSEUM FAVORITE Martha Owen, manager of the Evelyn Lehman Culp Heritage Collection inside the Nappanee Center, poses with the Nappanee Fire Department’s ‘Foo Car,’ a favorite exhibit of many who visit the museum. Photo by Keith Knepp.
Historical markers provide a glimpse of the past
By LAUREN ZEUGNER Staff Writer
Dan Federspiel reached out earlier this summer, noting the number of historical markers in the area. “By the time I realize what I am seeing, however, the marker is already in my rearview,” he said in an email.
Federspiel, an avid reader of The Mail-Journal, suggested we look further into those markers that dot the landscape.
The official website of the State of Indiana, In.gov, actually has several pages dedicated to historical markers. In Kosciusko County, there are 10 markers with four located between Syracuse and North Webster, dating from 1962 to 2007.
The markers are: Papakeechie’s Reserve, Indian Hill, Cedar Point and Continental Divide. Papakeechie’s Reserve, 7277 E. Eli Lilly Road, Syracuse, actually came under review in 2010. At the time the marker read “Papakeechie’s Reserve: You are now leaving Papakeechie’s Reservation, 36 square miles. This Miami Chief, also known as Flat Belly, held this land from 1828-1834 when it was returned to the National Government. It was later owned by the Wabash & Erie Canal.”
The review recommended “The current maker should be removed. There is no denying that the “Treaty with the Miamis, 1826” that officially gave this allotment of land to Papakeechie occurred in 1826, not 1828. Furthermore, the statement that he ‘held this land from 18281834,’ despite the incorrect date, implies that this was the amount of time he was on that land.
“However, he probably lived in the area for much longer, possibly his whole life. In 1826 he was only confined to a smaller portion of the area in which the Miami had roamed for hundreds of years. Furthermore, the statement that the land was ‘returned’ to the government in 1834 perpetuates the idea that the U.S. was destined to settle the land or was in any way the rightful owner. The statement about the Wabash and Eerie Canal later owning the land is likely correct, but needs more research.
“While the current marker is incorrect and misleading, a new marker in the same area would still be appropriate. A new marker could focus on the fact that the whole area was home to the Miami for hundreds of years. During the treaty years, the area was divided into reservations and individual plots, separating the people from their land and livelihood. Flat Belly could still be mentioned as living on this reserve with his followers. The new marker would provide an opportunity to talk about broken treaties and Indian removal. Perhaps, the marker could mention that some Miami returned to the area, and their descendants are still fighting for tribal recognition today.” There is nothing in the record to show a new marker was installed.
Indian Hill is located at 877 N. Shore Drive, Syracuse. According to the IHB record the marker, which was placed in 1962, no longer meets with current IHB guidelines and procedures which require the IHB, marker applicants and representatives of indigenous communities to work together on marker text.
The text reads: “Indians formerly wrapped their dead and secured them in the trees here. At the time of white settlement, the wrappings were disintegrating and the bones
were falling on the ground.
Cedar Point, located at 11261 Cedar Point Low Road, Syracuse, also notes it was placed in 1962 and does not meet current IHB guidelines and procedures. It reads “This site was occupied by Indians of the Glacial Kame Culture about the time of the birth of Christ.”
The marker for the Continental Divide is located on the east side of SR 13 along the frontage of the Northern Indiana Weater Forecast Office facility. It was erected in 1968.
The Indiana State Historical Marker Program, which began in 1946, is a public-driven program and its success rests on the partnership between the applicants and the Indiana Historical Bureau.
IHB accepts applications for new marker topics each year. Those topics must demonstrate statewide and/or national significance and be supported with primary source documentation.
Often, structures important in telling the history of marginalized communities are no longer preserved and markers play a significant role in returning these stories to the historical landscapes in which they belong.
In order to be considered for a marker, the topic must demonstrate statewide significance and be substantiated with primary source documentation. Applications for 202425 are due July 18 to be discussed when the Indiana Library and Historical Board meets in September.
For more information about the application process visit in.gov/ history/state-historical-markers/ apply-for-a-marker.
Topic priorities for 2024-25 are notable anniversaries such as semicentennials, 75 year anniversaries, centennials, sesquicentennials etc.; notable Hoosiers who died in 2005 or earlier. IHB guidelines stipulate no individual may be a topic of a
marker until 20 years after his or her death.
Another topic is marginalized communities including the historically underrepresented racial, ethnic or immigrant groups and women’s history in Indiana.
An Indiana State Historical Marker for 2024-25 application cycle costs $3,300. the applicant must raise the full cost of the marker.
CONTINENTAL DIVIDE MARKER Shown is the Continental Divide Historical Marker that is located between Syracuse and North Webster. Photo provided by Dan Federspiel.
INDIAN HILL MARKER Shown is the Indian Hill Marker, which no longer fits with the Indiana Historic Bureau’s guidelines. Now the IHB requires applicants to work with indigenous communities on markers such as this. Photo provided by Dan Federspiel.
Large turnout turns laps Flotilla Road Race
Text and Photos By NATHAN PACE Sports Writer
The Flotilla Road Race made its 47th edition through Syracuse Thursday, July 4, with close to 500 people participating. Brian Shepherd serves as race director for the race and said 2024’s running is up near the most ever despite humid conditions.
“This was by far the second most that we’ve had. It was hot but people came out,” Shepherd said. Shepherd said the record number for the race is closer to 600 in a year where weather canceled other road races in the surrounding area.
Over 400 runners participated in the 3.3-mile race and roughly 80 took on the the longer 8-mile course. Proceeds from the road race benefit the Milford Food Bank.
Despite the crowd, Shepherd felt runners were considerate on the course.
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“Everybody was really kind. It’s a lot of people in a small area,” Shepherd said. “I appreci-
Fred Helfrich
Continued from page 1
“Bought an E-bike a couple of years ago. Has an electric pedal assist. Those things really changed my life. I’m 76 so keeping up with the guys that are in their 50s is a bit of challenge and those things kind of leveled the playing field for me. Allowed me to ride in windy conditions and hilly conditions that I probably wouldn’t tackle at this age,” Hel-
ate the people working together and being calm when there is a lot people to get through.”
Whitney Anderson, a student from Valparaiso High School, won the women’s division in the 3.3-mile race. She has family in Syracuse, making it an event she was looking forward to. Thursday was her first time running the Flotilla Road Race.
“I really like how it was around the lake and it was fun looking at all the houses while I was running,” Anderson said. “It’s pretty exciting, It’s a very nice place to visit. Definitely come out, it’s a fun experience.”
The road race began at Lakeside Park just after 8 a.m. with the 8-mile runners completing the course around 9 a.m. Awards were handed out to age group winners thanks in part to the 22 sponsors of the race.
Jacquelyn Roberts was trying out the 3.3-mile race for the first time. She has had family run before and wanted to see if she could pull it off herself.
“Just get out and compete against my husband if I can. We’ve got two little kids so show them how to stay active and
frich said.
Helfrich is married to his wife Jo and has a son in Adam and a daughter in Elisabeth.
While he is enjoying retirement Helfrich is thankful to still have objectives to complete thanks to his support of local biking.
“Between that and bike club and a couple other things my wife is like ‘How did you have time to work before?’”
things like that,” Roberts said. “Just being around everybody and watch everybody run. It’s nice to see the different faces and the competition. The people who are doing it for fun and the people who are trying hard.”
Francie McDonald was returning to the Flotilla Road Race and plans to run again in the event in the future. McDonald moved out of state after starting school in Wawasee but she still has other family in Syracuse.
“It’s just fun because it’s lighthearted,” McDonald said. “It’s not embarrassing to be slow. It also makes you feel really accomplished running on the Fourth of July at eight in the morning.”
FLOTILLA ROOKIE — Jacquelyn Roberts fights through the humidity in her first appearance at the Flotilla Road Race.
SYRACUSE SPEED Age group winners from the Flotilla Road Race pose for a photo after the race. Front row from left: Jenny Isenbarger - grand master 8-mile; Amy Kuhn - master 8-mile; Whitney Anderson 3.3mile overall; Graciela Mejia 8-mile senior master; and Francisco Hernandez 8-mile grand master
Back row from left, Joshua Urban overall 8-mile; Kristina Schindler overall 8-mile; FG Garcia master 8-mile; Brian Shepherd master 3.3-mile with his grandchildren, Evander and Milo.
Documentary of famed inventor to premier in Syracuse before going nationwide
The Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum is offering an advance preview of “Blind Logic,” a new documentary about Ralph Teetor, a part-time resident of Syracuse and Lake Wawasee. The free showing will be at the historic Pickwick Theater at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 23. Doors open at 6 p.m. The museum will accept freewill donations.
Teetor and his family resided in Hagerstown, but first came to Syracuse in 1915. Seeking a more convenient place to keep their speedboat, it wasn’t long before his parents bought a cottage on Lake Wawasee, beginning
more than a century of the family summering on the lake. His great-grandchildren still enjoy the property today.
Although blind from an early age, he preferred not to discuss his disability. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering in 1912, and later a master’s degree in 1930.
Teetor’s highly developed sense of touch proved helpful in providing a technique for balancing steam turbine rotors used in Navy torpedo-boat destroyers during World War I.
Between college graduation in
Krissy Ropp Benefit planned in Larwill Aug. 3
The public is invited to a benefit event at The Ole Hitchin Post in August that will help the restaurant’s owner, Krissy Ropp, with medical bills.
The Krissy Ropp Benefit will be an evening of food, live music, free-will donations, fellowship and prayer.
The benefit will take place from 4-9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3, at The
Ole Hitchin Post, located at 109 S. Center St., Larwill. Ropp, who owns The Ole Hitchin Post along with her husband, Jay, has been fighting chronic lymphocytic leukemia, according to a posting in March on the restaurant’s Facebook page. Because of her illness, the restaurant did not open like usual this year.
Grants available to fun urban forestry projects
Applications are now open for grants to fund urban forestry projects throughout Indiana. Projects including tree planting, tree inventories with management plans, urban tree canopy assessments and storm response planning are fundable through these grants. Funds are awarded on a reimbursable basis and a 1:1 match is required.
Administered by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry’s Community and Urban Forestry program, the funding is available through the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry program.
1912 and his marriage in 1922, Teetor pursued a hobby of building motorboats. In 1914, Teetor tested his first boat on Lake Wawasee — a 22-foot speedboat with a four-cylinder Teetor-Hartley engine.
Several years later, he bought a 22-foot racing boat named “Miss Detroit II” whose hull was built by Chris and Jan Smith, founders of Chris Craft Boat Company, for Garfield “Gar” Wood. Teetor and the Smiths became good friends, engineering boat engines for speed and smooth performance.
On Lake Wawasee “Miss Detroit II” achieved speeds exceeding 70 miles an hour. The next year, Teetor built a 30 foot boat named “Siren” powered by two 6-cylinder engines.
During this time, the Teetor family had been staying at the Sargent Hotel on Lake Wawasee. Teetor convinced his father they needed better facilities for keeping boats on the lake, so his parents bought a cottage in the early 1920s.
Teetor took a springtime trip to Florida with his good friend and fellow inventor Clessie Cummins, who was developing the diesel engine. Early automobiles were tested on the hard sands of Daytona Beach, and Ralph usually knew exactly what the mechanical difficulty was by listening to the engine. Teetor loved to be a
part of what was new, faster and possibly better in automobiles and mechanics.
Fred Duesenberg, known for his race cars at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, visited Lake Wawasee enjoying a ride in Ralph’s first Chris-Craft, “Siren II.” In 1931, Duesenberg brought his new supercharged Model SJ Duesenberg automobile, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 mph in 17 seconds, to Teetor for approval and admiration.
At Teetor became well known for his unique skill in engineering and improving automobiles, he developed close relationships with officers and engineers of nearly all the automotive companies of the time: Chrysler, Studebaker, Chevrolet, Packard, Caterpillar and most notably, Charles Kettering and Ed Cole of General Motors Corporation. Teetor was elected national president of the Society of Automotive Engineers in 1936.
In 1937, Teetor served as chief steward of the Indianapolis 500.
Over the course of the summer of 1962, Teetor; Landrum Bolling, president of Earlham College; and Eli Lilly crossed Lake Wawasee by boat many times as the Lilly and Teetor homes were used to work out a plan for Earlham to take possession of the William Conner estate near Noblesville, known today as Conner Prairie living history museum.
The documentary follows the extraordinary journey of Teetor from childhood blindness through his life of fierce determination and distinctive mental vision to become an inventive, insightful leader and philanthropist. Teetor was a prolific inventor whose invention of cruise control is standard feature in every automobile sold today. His life and relationships spanned the entire period of the development of the American automobile industry. He became president of Perfect Circle Piston Ring Corportation in Hagerstown, which was later sold to the Dana Corporation.
The documentary will touch on his relationship with the leaders of industry during the early period of the auto industry including Henry Ford, Duesenburg, Eddie Rickenbacker and others. He was a regular feature at the famed Indianapolis 500 where his skills were used by many, helping them produce the most powerful racing machines possible.
In addition to featuring the Teetor family enjoying Lake Wawasee, the film credits include three of Dan Teetor’s grandsons who often visited the lake: Composer Jim Andron, former music director for the New Christy Minstrels; Photo Editor Daniel Teetor; and Writer, Director and Producer Jack Teetor.
Additional information is available from Jacob Roos, community and urban forestry director, DNR Division of Forestry, (317) 2344386, jroos@dnr.IN.gov.
There are three different grant opportunities available. Applicants may apply for more than one grant, but receiving funding for more than one grant is not guaranteed. All application materials are available for download at on.IN. gov/cuf by clicking on CUFA grants at the top of the page. Applications are due Sept. 4. Funding announcements will be made by Oct. 4.
Living at Timbercrest means freedom, with our maintenance-free lifestyle providing opportunities for you to explore and enjoy life! Looking to relax? Our 117 acres of woods and meadows is just the place for a tranquil, leisurely stroll. Ready for good-times activities with friendly neighbors? We’ve got everything from a woodworking shop, exercise classes, gardening and so much more.
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A selection of homes and floorplans plus meals, wellness programming, and recreation available on campus let you make the most of warm, sunny days! All levels of care options are available—including Assisted Living, LongTerm Care, and Memory Care.
How will you spend your Timbercrest summer?
Text and Photos
By KEITH KNEPP Staff Writer
If all goes according to schedule, the city of Nappanee will have a new, state-of-the-art fire station in the next 18 months.
City leaders, firefighters and others involved in the planning and building of the new fire station came together on the north side of Nappanee to ceremonially break ground on the multi-million dollar facility, which will replace the existing station, which has become obsolete for the current needs of the department.
The current fire station, which came into service 54 years ago, is attached to city hall. The facility also housed the police and EMS departments until 1991 when a separate building was constructed across Lincoln Street for those two entities.
According to Nappanee Mayor Phil Jenkins, there has been a 67% increase in calls since the fire department moved in to the building in 1970. He pointed out that changes in technology and equipment of both departments necessitate more direct interaction.
“This has been a long time coming,” said Jenkins. “Seven years ago we started looking at how we could merge the fire and EMS into one department and what that facility might look like. We’ve taken several trips to other area fire stations to get an idea of what we wanted in Nappanee.”
The new fire station will be built on North Main Street in the vacant lot to the south of Grace Point Church. It’s pastor, Tom Nelson provided a dedication prayer during the ground-breaking ceremony and also said a few words about the project.
“We are excited about this, and we get to have a new neighbor,” said Nelson. “I’ve had people ask me, ‘what are you going to do on Sunday mornings when the fire alarms go off in the middle of church?’ My answer, of course, is ‘we’re going to do what we always do, we’re going to stop, and we’re going to pray.’”
Jenkins thanked many people who had a hand in the project, including the technical review committee, which worked to select the design/build team. The committee
READY TO START Members of the Nappanee Fire and EMS departments too part in the ground-breaking ceremony for the new Nappanee fire station, which is scheduled to be completed in September 2025.
Pictured in the front row with the shovels are from left Gus Bautista, Capt. Sandra Witt, Pat Neibert, Assistant Chief Nick Lechlitner, Brandon
consisted of Todd Nunemaker, city planner; Don Lehman, fire chief; Steve Heckathorn, assistant EMS chief; Jeff Knight, Nappanee clerktreasurer; and Doug Berger, local engineer.
“Their dedication to find the right team to put this together was done well, and it’s been a joy to see the partnership come together as we build this new fire station,” Jenkins said.
“Today marks a significant milestone in our community’s journey toward enhanced public safety and service,” said Nunemaker. “We are embarking on a project that will greatly benefit our city. ... The path of this moment was paved with thorough planning, community engagement and collaborative effort. Our journey began with the identification of 16 potential building sites. Each site was carefully evaluated based on accessibility, community impact and logistic feasibility. ... Together we are building a safer, stronger future for our city.”
Lehman talked about the features of the new station, which will include a training tower. It will allow the department to do a variety of simulation exercises. He said there also will be eight dorms in the station for full-time firefighters, as well as a training room that will be able to host outside departments to use for continuing education.
“We will have five apparatus bays that are two-deep,” said Lehman. “We will have a state-of-
the-art ventilation system, which we don’t have now. There have been a lot of studies about cancer research, that we as firefighters get in to, including from the diesel fumes. ... We’ll have the diesel fumes and contaminants we bring back from fires that will be able to be vented out the building. It will be a safer environment for us.”
Additionally, there will be a “baby box” installed in the back part of the building. It will be one of the only locations in the southern part of Elkhart County for the safe, anonymous surrendering of unwanted babies.
“This is a big day for the city of Nappanee,” said Jenkins. “We continue to grow, and we continue to thrive here in a small community.
The city is hoping the fire station will be ready for operation Sept. 30, 2025.
NAPPANEE’S FUTURE A sign featuring an artist’s rendering of the new Nappanee Fire Station sits in front of a piece of heavy equipment during the ground-breaking ceremony for the new facility, which will be located on SR 19 next to Grace Point Church.
Collins, Fire Chief Don Lehman, Assistant EMS Chief Steve Heckathorn, Capt. Nate Yoder, Alec Chapman, and Capt. Marvin Stalter. In the second row are Chris Yoder, Lindsey Yoder, Nick Gaff, Bryce Abel, Michael George and Phil Sumpter.
PLUGGED IN The city of Nappanee took delivery of a new Chevy Silverado electric vehicle Thursday, July 11. The $75,000 pickup truck was purchased from McCormick Motors in Nappanee through a 100% grant facilitated through the Michiana Council of Area Governments.
Pictured from left are Kim Howenstine, Nappanee Elder Haus director; Sam Coomes, General Motors regional director; Leah Thill, MACOG director of sustainability; Abbot Martin, city of Nappanee building manager; Todd Nunemaker, Nappanee city planner; Tom Nunemaker, McCormick Motors president; Jeff Knight, Nappanee clerk-treasurer; Don Lehman, Nappanee fire chief; Mark Collins, city of Nappanee director of development; Brian Van Voorst, city of Nappanee water superintendent; and Brent Warren, city of Nappanee streets superintendent.
Photo by Keith Knepp.
E lkhart C ounty F air
Elkhart County Fair entertainment offers fun for all
By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer
This year’s Elkhart County Fair hosts a variety of fun events that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Grandstand events require a ticket purchase in addition to admission to the fair. Grandstand ticket prices vary by event. Admission to the fair is $8 online before Thursday, July 18, and $10 at the gate or online during the fair. Children ages nine and under get in free. Parking is also free.
Entertainment Center and Heritage Park events are free of charge with admission to the fair.
The Hollyhock Entertainment Center will be open daily at 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. for Dog Soccer Games. In this new interactive game, people can play against a team of professional soccer dogs.
The Everence Family Entertainment Center will be holding the Space Adventures Thrill Show daily at noon, 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. This show features comedy, juggling, trampolines and a fire act, all accompanied by fun educational facts.
At the Jayco Family Fun Center, Agri-Golf shows will be held daily at 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. Audiences have the opportunity to be entertained and learn about Indiana’s agriculture through the Goofy Golf Games. Visitors can also play
a round of mini golf on Agri-Golf’s LED mini golf course from 2-10 p.m. daily.
The Heritage Park stage will feature its own variety of events.
Headphone Disco is at 8:30 p.m. Friday, July 19. A boy band revue will be held at 8 p.m. Saturday, July 20. Two shows from the Aaron Stutzman Family bluegrass and gospel band will be at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Sunday, July 21. Hear a selection of Taylor Swift’s discography from tribute band RED at 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 23. Country artist Mark Willis will perform at 8 p.m. Thursday, July 25.
Also at the Heritage Park stage will be different Silly Safaris shows featuring a variety of reptiles, mammals, birds and bugs. Shows are at 9 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Monday, July 22; 9:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tuesday, July 23; and 12:12 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 24.
Meanwhile, at the Grandstand, comedian Trey Kennedy will take the stage at 8 p.m. Friday, July 19. Track seats are $35 and grandstand seats $5.
Drone shows will be at 9:45 p.m. Friday, July 19 and Saturday, July 20. These shows are free.
A monster truck rally will take place at 8 p.m. Saturday, July 20. Tickets are $15.
“NEEDTOBREATHE” will perform at 8 p.m. Sunday, July 21. Track seats are $30, standing room
tickets are $25 and grandstand seats are $15.
Country artist Brantley Gilbert is next at 8 p.m. Monday, July 22. Track seats are $45, standing room tickets are $40 and grandstand seats are $30.
Christian pop duo for KING + COUNTRY will appear at 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 23. Track seats are $35 and grandstand seats $25.
There will be three different truck and tractor pulls at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 24; and 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Thursday, July 25. Tickets are $10.
Rodeos are scheduled for 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. Friday, July 26, with tickets at $10.
And finally, the demolition derby will take place from 7:30-10 p.m. Saturday, July 27. Tickets are $10.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit 4hfair.org.
events offered at the Elkhart County Fair this year. Photo provided by Elkhart County 4-H Fair.
Fair-goers to see some changes this year
By LAUREN ZEUGNER Editor
Those attending the Elkhart County 4-H Fair this year will see some changes. The Farmstead and Youth Ag area has undergone a complete renovation, complete with new siding, and now a concrete floor where the miniature horses are on display.
Young McDonald Farm has also been expanded as has the History Room. Commercial Building A was repainted.
There are also newly installed hydration stations where fair-goers can fill up their water bottles for free. There are new phone charging stations within Heritage Park, as well.
For those coming to the fair from
the south, the south entrance to the fair off CR 36 will look different this year. Entertainment-wise, there will be two drone shows given by Sky Elements, which appeared on America’s Got Talent.
But the biggest change will take place after the fair is over.
Starting in August the Elkhart Continued on page 8
AGRI-GOLF At Agri-Golf, audiences can be entertained and learn about Indiana’s agriculture through the Goofy Golf Games, or play a round of mini golf on the LED course. This is just one of the many
By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer
The Jacksonian Producers 4-H club of New Paris lists its focus as “general projects,” but that doesn’t tell the whole story. Any 4-H member can join, meaning the club sees an array of projects. Beekeeping, photography, sewing, ceramics and photography are just a few options kids can undertake.
“Anything that strikes their fancy, they can do,” said club leader Regina Morehouse. “Anyone that wants to be in 4-H is welcome to our club.”
Fifteen-year-old Madison Keck, who serves as club president, will
be showing off a candle making project at this year’s Elkhart County Fair.
“I just like how generalized the club is,” Keck said. “It’s really inclusive, there’s something for everyone.”
Jacksonians also participate in community service projects, such as making baskets for the local fire department and cleaning up around Sunset Park, where they meet every month. At meetings, kids get updates on where they should be with their individual projects and often do a hands-on activity.
According to Morehouse, the Jacksonian Producers club was founded by a home economics
teacher and an agriculture teacher from New Paris in 1935. As far as she knows, these teachers’ names have been lost to history, but their creation has endured with some changes over the years. There were originally separate clubs for girls and boys, but they were turned into one co-op club in the early 2000s.
Morehouse believes the time spent around other kids in the club is beneficial for members, of which there are about 100.
“There’s also an element of learning. We try to do something that’s educational each meeting, yet fun, which can be a challenge but we can do it,” she added.
She also views the fair itself as
E lkhart C ounty F air
in New Paris. Club leader Regina
views these
as a good opportunity to learn and spend time around
by Jacksonian Producers.
an important learning experience.
“When there’s open judging, the kids can learn from them. We encourage them to leave comments so the kids can understand what they did wrong and what they did right on their projects,” Morehouse explained.
“I think it’s a good experience for the younger first-year members. I remember being scared and uncomfortable, but it really pushes you out of your comfort zone,” Keck remarked. “Then you get to display what you worked on for so many months, you get to show it off and be proud of it. ... They get to learn while they are doing the projects and grow from the experience.”
Keck and Morehouse both cited the structure of club meetings as helpful for members, especially the younger kids.
“Those deadlines can be pretty strict. If you don’t have it done at a certain time, it’s just not happening,” Keck said.
More information about the Jacksonian Producers and Elkhart
County 4-H can be found at extension.purdue.edu/county/elkhart/4h.html.
Fair-goers to see
Continued from page 8
County Community Center will undergo a renovation that includes adding 5,000 square feet on the east end. There a warming kitchen will be added as well as some other amenities.
Plans for the ECCC include a rooftop deck on the southeast side. “The whole thing will look different,” said Shelly Stuery, fair board president and general manager of
the fair.
In front, the parking lot will be paved and expanded to the fence line.
The Elkhart County Fair Board hopes to have the project complete by March 2025.
Stuery said the fairgrounds are trying to do more during the “off” season. For example, the Holiday Lights Show will be returning later this year with an extended route.
GETTING TOGETHER A group of 4-H kids and a few adults do a hands-on activity at a Jacksonian Producers meeting at Sunnyside Park
Morehouse
meetings
other kids. Photo provided
WORTH THE EFFORT Micah Alba shows off his finished ceramics project, a realistic cow skull, at the 2023 Elkhart County Fair. Projects of any discipline are welcome in the Jacksonians. Photo provided by Jacksonian Producers.
E lkhart C ounty F air
Gillam named 2024 fair parade marshal
By LAUREN ZEUGNER Editor
The parade marshal for the Elkhart County Fair Parade is always selected by the fair board president. Shelly Steury, this year’s fair president and general manager of the Elkhart County Fairgrounds, explained the parade marshal is typically someone who has been very helpful to the president or very active in the fair.
Steury named Chris Gillam, who has been a volunteer around 4-H and the fair for 20 years. He has served as a 4-H leader, on 4-H Corporation board, was the treasurer for 4-H Corp., served as an extension director and as an extension district director overseeing several counties. He also served on the executive board of the fair board and as interim general man-
ager for almost a year. He also served as chairman of the 150th anniversary committee last year.
These days he helps out part time, coming into the fair office three times a week to do the accounting. “That makes sense since I understand every aspect of the fair,” he said.
Gillam will tell you he’s a “behind the scenes” type guy. “I’m not a person who likes to be up front, so this is very humbling,” he said.
Originally, Steury was going to ask a woman to be the parade marshal, but then realized she always said she couldn’t get anything done without Gillam. Selecting him seemed a natural choice.
Steury noted three years ago the two didn’t know each other, “but should have.”
“This fair truly brought us together. I wouldn’t know him with-
out this fair,” she said.
Gillam will have his children, Laura, Kelsey, Brittney and Chandler join him in riding in the parade. All of them are were 10-year members. Gillam also has 12 grandchildren, three of whom are in 4-H this year. Next year five grandchildren will be in 4-H. All of them so far have been active in Lamb and Beef clubs.
Noting this year’s fair theme is “Timeless Traditions,” Gillam noted, “the fair is always a big tradition for our family.” He said it’s important to remember fair from the perspective of a kid, how everything is big and new.
Gillam shared one activity his family tries to do at the fair is to eat their way through the alphabet. Unfortunately a few letters, like U and Z, would trip them up in their mission’s success.
Fair GM is this year’s fair board president
By LAUREN ZEUGNER Editor
This year’s Elkhart County Fair Board president may have more insight than others before her. That’s because Shelly Steury is also the fairgrounds general manager.
Each president comes up with their own logo, which is also the theme for the fair. Steury selected her theme “Timeless Traditions” after asking people in the community if they attend the Elkhart County 4- H Fair.
“Everyone experiences it differently,” she said. “People have different traditions.”
Her family’s tradition is going to the rodeo at the fair. From that tradition, Steury worked with her daughter, Kendra, who is studying to be an animator, on the logo for the 2024 fair.
The logo features a cowboy on horseback, representing the Steury family tradition of going to the rodeo. Underneath is wheat, representing agriculture. The Ferris wheel represents the midway and the 24 sunbursts represent 2024. And the number seven on the cowboy’s saddle is to represent Steury being the seventh female fair board president.
Steury herself was in 4-H saddle club as a kid. While she wasn’t a 10year member, Kendra was.
Steury began thinking about her theme as soon as she was nominated. Past presidents advised her the theme and logo should represent what the fair means to her.
“That’s why we’re here, because of those traditions,” Steury said.
Like all fair board presidents, Steury gets to go behind the scenes of the fair, but as GM, she as an intimate working knowledge of how the fair comes together. “Some of the things I do are not of interest to others,” she said. “The more we get in order, knocked out, the more fun
we get tho have at the fair.”
This is Steury’s third year as general manager, so she’s had the opportunity to walk alongside other presidents as they presided over the fair.
“I was able to get very familiar with the process of being president,” she said.
Steury was very clear that this is not her fair, but the community’s fair.
Another family tradition is Steury’s dad was a 17-year fair board member.
PARADE MARSHAL— Chris Gillam, a long time volunteer in both 4-H and the Elkhart County 4-H Fair has been selected to be this year’s parade marshal. Photo provided by the Elkhart County Fair.
FAIR BOARD PRESIDENT Shelly Steury, this year’s Elkhart County 4-H Fair president, is also the general manager of the Elkhart County Fairgrounds. Her theme for this year’s fair is “Timeless Traditions.”
Photo provided by the Elkhart County Fair.
Grace College Nursing secures 100% boards NCLEX Exam pass rate for third consecutive year
The 2024 graduates of Bethel University’s School of Nursing at Grace College boast a 100% National Council Licensure Examination pass rate for the RN Boards exam. This is the third consecutive year the program has boasted a 100% pass rate. The number surpasses the national average pass rate by 21%.
“We are thrilled to launch this next graduating class into the health care industry to meet the growing demand for nurses,” said Dr. Kristen Richmond, the coordinator of nursing at Grace College. “As our population ages and a projected 23% of RNs plan to retire in the next five years, colleges and universities are having a hard time keeping up with the need; however, I have been so encouraged by this class of nursing graduates, who are equipped to enter the field and intent on their purpose to make an immediate impact.”
Nursing students at Grace
participate in Grace College campus life and its liberal arts courses while studying nursing with Bethel University nursing professors. These students have access to Grace’s state-of-the-art nursing simulation lab, where they practice their skills in a lifelike environment.
As a result of scenario-based learning and experienced faculty, employers that hire Grace BSN graduates report a 100% satisfaction rate. According to Richmond, the biggest differentiator for a Grace graduate is a commitment to making Christ known in the hospital rooms they enter.
“Our highest aim is to prepare our students to be successful Christian nurses in this stressful and high-demand field and to train them to be compassionate and caring while sharing the love of Jesus,” said Richmond.
Cassidy Stults of Bristol is one of the graduating students who contributed to the 100% NCLEX
pass rates at Grace.
According to Stults, the NCLEX felt “like a breeze” because of the academic rigor of the nursing program. “I was happy to get my RN title, but I almost felt even more proud of my BSN,” said Stults.
For Stults, the field of nursing was a clear choice.
“My mother is a pharmacist, so she exposed me to the world of medicine, which furthered my interest in health care,” said Stults. “I excelled in science classes throughout middle and high school, and I have a passion for making people feel better and empathizing with them in their pain. Nursing presents amazing opportunities to share the love of Jesus and be a light in people’s hardest moments.”
In September, Stults will begin her career as a nurse in a medical-surgical unit in one of the main hospitals in Lafayette. She looks forward to putting her
nursing skills to use with a diverse patient population before solidifying a role on a specialty unit. As she reflects on her nursing training, she affirms it was well worth it.
“While nursing school may seem daunting, the support you receive from your peers and instructors is far beyond what you
could ever imagine and will help you through,” said Stults. “Nursing school can also help strengthen your faith in ways you didn’t think possible. I know it did for me.”
For more information about Bethel University’s School of Nursing at Grace College, visit grace.edu/programs/nursing.
Local student-athletes named to athletic director’s honor roll
It was another highly successful spring semester in the classroom for Midway student-athletes, with 460 earning a spot on the athletic director’s honor roll.
To qualify, a student-athlete must hold a grade point average of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale for the entire semester.
Women’s swimming had the highest total GPA at 3.765, with women’s cross country (3.615), equestrian western (3.579) men’s swimming (3.550), women’s golf (3.540), women’s soccer (3.503) and men’s cross country (3.50), all getting at least 3.5.
All members of both women’s swimming and women’s golf teams made the athletic director’s honor roll.
As a team, baseball had a school-high 61 players selected, with men’s soccer and women’s soccer coming in second and third with 39 and 37 respectively.
The following local students were named to the athletic director’s honor roll:
Men’s basketball — Andrew Heckaman, Warsaw
Women’s swimming — Josie Briner, Silver Lake
Elkhart Extension
offering program on purging personal papers
Do you find yourself getting overwhelmed with the stack of papers accumulating on the counter? It can be confusing knowing which papers to dispose of and which ones to keep. Learn about which paperwork to keep for a certain period of time and which ones can go in the garbage. Join Elkhart Extension for this free educational program presented by Emily Christ, Purdue University Extension educator in health and human sciences in Elkhart County. This program is being offered at 6
p.m. Monday, Aug. 12, at the Elkhart Public Library, Dunlap Branch, 58485 CR 13, Elkhart. The program will last approximately one hour.
If you would like to attend the program, pre-register by calling Jenn at (574) 533-0554 or email fink24@purdue.edu.
This program and all programs of the Purdue University Extension Service are open to everyone. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, call Emily at the number above by July 29.
Kalamazoo College congratulates students, who earned dean’s list honors in spring 2024.
Dean’s list recognition is earned with a grade point average of 3.5 or better with a full-
time course load of at least three units, without failing or withdrawing from any course, during the spring 2024 academic term. Kevin O’Neill, Warsaw, is a local student named to the dean’s list.
NURSING GRADS — The 2024 graduates of Bethel University’s School of Nursing at Grace College boast a 100% NCLEX pass rate for the RN boards exam for the third year in a row. Photo provided by Grace College.
Lois H. Beck
Lois H. Beck, 98, Warsaw, died July 6, 2024.
She was born April 29, 1926. In 1949, she married Dr. Joseph Beck, who preceded her in death in 1962.
Surviving are daughters, Nancy Shaw and Barbara Beck; grandchildren; and a great-grandson.
Services will be held at a later date. McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw, is in charge of arrangements.
Lillian P. Bradley
Lillian P. “Pip” Bradley, 59, Warsaw, died July 10, 2024.
She was born Aug. 22, 1964. On Aug. 5, 1997, he married Michael T. Bradley; he survives.
Also surviving are her children, Eric S. Bradley, Anjil D. Bradley and Cheyenne N. Bradley, all of Warsaw; daughter-in-law, Erin Plank, Providence, R.I.; siblings, Ed Fields, Larry Fields, Rita Sloderbeck and Lisa Kessler; and six grandchildren.
Visitation was held July 15 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.
Phillip Brown
Phillip Brown, 82, Warsaw, died July 3, 2024.
He was born Aug. 1, 1941. On May 11, 1972, he married Deborah Smith.
Surviving are his children, Kevin Brown, Leesburg, Katrina Platt, Korey Brown and Phillip Brown, all of Warsaw; siblings, Cheryl Burkholder, Florida, Wanda Sitts, Kimmell, and Stephan Brown, Columbia City; 12 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
Per his request, all services will be private. McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.
Robert Dean Cooper
Robert Dean Cooper, 66, Tippecanoe, died at 4:15 p.m. July 5, 2024.
He was born Nov. 20, 1957. On Aug. 26, 2017, he married Amy Lewis; she survives.
Also surviving are his children, Drew Cooper, Warsaw, Dustin Cooper, Akron, Brody Cooper, Mentone, Logan Cooper, Celina, Ohio, Cody Ply, Texas, AJ Noel, Columbia City, and Hannah Noel, Tippecanoe; nine grandchildren; a great-grandson; siblings, Virgil Cooper, Foley, Ala., Rick Cooper, Gohen, and Tammy Cooper, Foley, Ala.; and mother-in-law, Beverly Lewis, Rochester.
Services were held July 15 at King Memorial Home, Mentone. Interment took place in Mentone Cemetery.
Joseph Luis Criswell
Joseph “Joey” Luis Criswell, 44, Milford, died June 29, 2024.
He was born April 11, 1980. On Sept. 30, 2016, he married Kimberly Flickinger; she survives.
Also surviving are his children, Jose Criswell, Izaiah Criswell, Jesus Criswell, Katalaya Criswell, Amariana Criswell, Yandilee Criswell and Liam Criswell; bonus children, Haley Chapman, Zoey Chapman, Cohen Chapman and Brantley Stewart; his mother, Deborah Criswell, Milford; his father, Jose Cervantes, Warsaw; twin brothers, Armando Cervantes and Andres Cervantes, both of Warsaw; his twin brother, Tony Criswell, Syracuse; a sister, Margarita Criswell, Milford; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A celebration of life was held July 13 at Mishler Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Milford.
Nancy Dalton
Nancy Dalton, 88, died July 7, 2024.
Arrangements are currently pending at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw.
Larry Dunn
Larry Dunn, 77, Warsaw, died July 9, 2024.
He was born Dec. 18, 1946.
He is survived by his wife, Sarah Dunn; sons, Geoffrey and Rodney Dunn; three grandchildren; and brother, Harold Dunn.
Services were held July 12 at Pathway Church, Warsaw. Titus Funeral
Blanche Diane Byrum
Talented Seamstress
Blanche Diane Byrum, 74, was called to her final resting place at 12:27 p.m. Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at Ft. Sanders Regional Hospital, Knoxville, Tenn., with her family by her side.
Blanche was widely known as Diane. She was born on Nov. 23, 1949, in Coral Gables, Fla., to Frank and Norma (Etheredge) Buhrmaster. On Dec. 31, 1967, Diane married Robert E. Sherrard Sr. in Coral Gables, Fla. They moved to Indiana and called Pierceton home. He preceded her in death on Sept. 27, 1989. Diane later married Hoyt Byrum on May 13, 1996, who survives.
During her time in Pierceton, Diane was a member of Pierceton Presbyterian Church and the Order of Eastern Star. Diane worked for United Telephone Company until taking early retirement in 1996 and relocating to Melbourne, Fla. A lifelong learner, Diane completed her degree from Boston University as a paralegal in 2011 before retiring in 2016 from the Brevard County Attorney’s Office.
Diane enjoyed traveling with her husband, reading, knitting anything from socks to sweaters and sewing. As a talented seamstress, Diane made many treasured outfits and custom wedding dresses. Diane looked forward to and enjoyed spending time with family and friends, catching up over a good cup of tea, which paired perfectly with her homemade shortbread cookies.
Diane will be dearly remembered as a loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother and cousin. She will be forever loved by her family and friends.
Diane is survived by her three little women, Elizabeth “Beth” Sherrard, Melbourne Fla., Amy (William) Alberding, Warsaw, and Megan (Neil) Hodges, Syracuse; two stepchildren, Jennifer Meyer, Titusville, Fla., and Michael (Lauren) Byrum, Fort Wayne; sister, Kym (David) Arter, Melbourne, Fla.; and sister-in-law, Elaine Buhrmaster, Laurens, S.C. She also leaves behind her beloved seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; four stepgrandchildren; one stepgreatgrandchild; one niece; one nephew; three great-nephews; one greatniece; and several cousins.
In addition to her parents, Frank, Norma and Fran Buhrmaster, and first husband, Robert E. Sherrard Sr., she was preceded in death by her brother, Robert “Sparky” Buhrmaster; son, Robert E. “Bobby” Sherrard Jr.; and granddaughter, Victoria Alberding.
Per Diane’s wishes, no services are planned at this time. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Donations to the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge in Nashville, Tenn., can be made by donating to the following: raiseyourway.donordrive.com/index. cfm?fuseaction=donate.event&eventID=1215.
Home of Warsaw was in charge of arrangements.
A. Darlene Eckert
A. Darlene Eckert, 89, died July 5, 2024.
She was born Dec. 31, 1934.On Jan. 1, 1953, she married Richard Eckert, who preceded her in death.
Surviving are sons, Mike Eckert, Birchwood, Wis., and Chuck Eckert, Sidney; daughter, Pat Leavell, Rochester; brother, Kam Michael, North Manchester; sisters, Kay Wall, Fort Wayne, and Karen Wolfe, Warsaw; sister-in-law, Jenine Michael; seven grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.
Services were held July 9 at Timbercrest Chapel, North Manchester. Burial was in South Whitley Cemetery. McKee Mortuary, North Manchester, was in charge of arrangements.
Ruth Ellen Egolf
Ruth Ellen Egolf, 103, North Manchester, died July 3, 2024.
She was born May 30, 1921. On Jan. 2, 1940, she married Frank Egolf. He preceded her in death Oct. 15, 1992.
She is survived by a son, Larry Egolf, Fort Wayne; three grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandsons.
Services were held July 10 at McKee Mortuary, North Manchester. A private graveside service was held at Eel River Cemetery, Churubusco.
Ricky Lee Ellis
Ricky Lee Ellis, 74, Nappanee, died at 8:20 p.m. July 5, 2024.
He was born Dec. 6, 1949. On June 15, 2024, he married Theresa Borkholder; she survives.
Also surviving are his children, Amy Ellis and Kayla Ellis, both of Nappanee, Rick Frye, New Paris, Jeremy Frye and Casey Lantze, both of Goshen, and Vanessa Borkholder, Middlebury; eight grandchildren; and
Joseph Neil Westendorf
U.S.
Air Force Veteran
With heavy hearts yet filled with gratitude, the family of Joseph Neil Westendorf, 94, announce his peaceful passing on Sunday, July 7, 2024, at his Lake Tippecanoe home, surrounded by his loving family.
Joe was born April 22, 1930, in Bluffton, the eldest of the five children of (the late) Joseph F. and Elsie (Beire) Westendorf. He graduated from Central Catholic High School with the class of ‘48, served honorably in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict, and married his high school sweetheart, Dorothy Evelyn (Bennett) Westendorf, on Oct. 17, 1953. Together, they began a family that eventually grew to nine children, moving from Fort Wayne to Lake Tippecanoe in 1969. His life was marked by his devotion to his family, unwavering optimism and sense of humor, and his deep appreciation for the beauty of Lake Tippecanoe and the lake life. He also had a love of history, and like so many of his generation, could keenly recount hearing of the attack on Pearl Harbor as it unfolded. However, most of Joe’s stories were funny and brought laughter, told with impeccable timing, and with Dorothy affectionately reigning in embellishments.
His legacy of love and laughter will endure through the generations he touched. Joe was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Tippecanoe Lake Property Owners Association, Chain O’ Lakes Barbershop Chorus and was the 2004 Distinguished Lake Tippecanoe Honoree.
He is survived by his son, Doug Westendorf of North Manchester; four daughters, Debbie Westendorf of Decatur Tenn., Kim (Don) Trammel of Leesburg, JoAnn (Jeff) Brown of North Webster and and Michelle (Chris) Davis of Nappanee; son-in-law, Eric Essig of Leesburg, 17 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Ellen Collins; sistersin-law, Janet Westendorf and Mary Jane Westendorf; and brother-inlaw, Paul Bennett.
Joe was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Dorothy Westendorf; three daughters, Laura Westendorf, Nancy Westendorf and Barbara Essig; son, Joey Westendorf; daughter-in-law, Beverly Westendorf; sister, Pat Ebler; and brothers, Larry Westendorf and Jerry Westendorf.
The funeral mass was celebrated at 12:30 p.m. Thursday July 11, in St. Peter Catholic Church, 518 E. DeWald St., Fort Wayne, with visitation from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the church. Visitation was also from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, July 10, at Divine Mercy Lake Avenue Funeral Home, 3500 Lake Ave., Fort Wayne, with the rosary at 3:30 p.m. Joe was laid to rest in Catholic Cemetery with military honors.
siblings, Tereasa Hartley, Walkerton, Debra Ryman, Nappanee, and Annette Ellis, Milford.
A memorial service was held July 13 at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee. Burial was in South Union Cemetery.
Continued on page 12
The family’s preferred memorials are Sacred Heart Catholic Church, online at sacredheartwarsaw.org or by mail to 125 N. Harrison St., Warsaw, IN 46580; or to St. Peter Catholic Church, online at saintpetersfortwayne.org or by mail to 518 E. DeWald St., Fort Wayne, IN 46803; or to the Lake Tippecanoe Property Owners Association, online at ltpo.org or by mail to P.O. Box 224, Leesburg, IN 46538.
To share a remembrance of Joe or to offer condolences, please visit divinemercyfuneralhome.com.
BLANCHE DIANE BYRUM
JOSEPH NEIL WESTENDORF
Carolyn L. Fivecoate
Carolyn L. Fivecoate, 99, Mentone, died at 10:50 a.m. July 3, 2024.
She was born April 28, 1925. On Jan. 4, 1949, she married Harold P. “Bud” Fivecoate. He preceded her in death March 31, 2012.
She is survived by a son, Jim Fivecoate, Mentone; three grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
A graveside service is being planned in Greenlawn Cemetery, Mexico, Ind. King Memorial Home, Mentone, was in charge of arrangements.
Caralee Joan Hursey
Caralee Joan Hursey, 91, Cromwell, died June 22, 2024.
She was born Nov. 24, 1932. On Feb. 14, 1952, she married Dwayne William “Bill” Hursey, who preceded her in death.
She is survived by a daughter, Cynthia Lemon; grandchildren; and daughters-in-law, Renee Hursey and Johanna Hursey.
Services were held July 11 at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse.
Ida Jean Lashbrook
Ida Jean Lashbrook, 96, Bremen, died at 1:05 p.m. July 4, 2024.
She was born June 10, 1928. On March 4, 1949, she married Herbert A. Lashbrook, who preceded her in death in October 1968.
Surviving are her children, Jan Campbell and Carol Young, both of Bremen, and Jim Lashbrook, Warsaw; six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
Services were held July 8 at Mishler Funeral Home, Bremen. Burial was in Bremen Cemetery.
Betty M. Leek
Betty M. Leek, 98, Warsaw, died July 5, 2024.
She was born Jan. 28, 1926.
Surviving are daughters, Merla Smith, Melody Feaster and Stacey Leek, all of Warsaw; 10 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Services were held July 10 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.
Mark Anthony Miller
Mark Anthony Miller, 48, died July 7, 2024.
He was born April 2, 1976.
He is survived by his daughter, Alivia Bucher, Akron, biological father, Mark Leroy Westafer, Claypool; sisters, Cara Amelio, Syracuse, Angie Westafer, Fort Wayne, and Mysti Welch, Wabash; brothers, Justin Miller, Wilmington, N.C., Steve Westafer, Larwill, and Dustin Westafer, Fort Wayne; bonus son, Logan Robinson; godson, Mark McNeely; and bonus family, Donna and Troy Dietrich, Eddie and Barb Blevins, Kendra and Jarrod McClure and Jeremy and Ronzo Blevins.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Burial will be private at Akron IOOF Cemetery. McKee Mortuary, North Manchester, is in charge of arrangements.
William Raymond Mitchell
William Raymond “Butch” Mitchell, 86, 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.
A celebration of life was held July 13 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw. Burial will be at a later date in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.
Kay Newcomer
Kay Newcomer, 75, Nappanee, died July 7, 2024.
She was born March 25, 1949. On Sept. 5, 1992, she married Larry Newcomer; he survives.
She is also survived by a daughter, Kellie Duran, Bristol; stepdaughters, Kelly Kronemeyer, Elkhart, and Sherry Taylor, Athens, Mich.; stepsons, Alvin Taylor and Lee Taylor, both of Athens, Mich.; 11 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and sisters, Geneen Boker, Detroit, Mich., and Joyce Thurston, Battle Creek, Mich.
Services were held July 11 at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee. Burial was in South Union Cemetery.
Larry R. Peckham
Larry R. Peckham, 67, Bourbon, died June 23, 2024.
He was born June 29, 1956. On May 24, 1997, he married Willa Wigginson; she survives.
Also surviving are brothers, Joel Peckham, Atwood, and Allen Peckham, Bourbon.
Cremation has been chosen and no services are scheduled. Deaton-Clemens Funeral Home, Bourbon, was in charge of arrangements.
Linda L. Piggott
Linda L. Piggott, 74, Wawaka, died July 5, 2024.
She was born Feb. 22, 1950. On Sept. 18, 1982, she married Mike Piggott; he survives.
She is also survived by a son, Jeremy Chagoya; stepdaughter, Tracy Piggott Winn, Wawaka; two sisters; and two brothers.
Services were held July 11 at Yeager Funeral Home, Ligonier. Burial was in Cosperville Cemetery.
Jacksie J. Calvert Reiken
Jacksie J. Calvert Reiken, 91, Mentone, died at 1:14 p.m. July 3, 2024.
She was born May 1, 1933. On Nov. 30, 1951, she married Ralph L. Calvert, who preceded her in death Jan. 18, 1975. On April 11, 1981, she married James E. Reiken, who preceded her in death Jan. 7, 2024.
She is survived by a daughter, Joyce Bose, Mentone; son, Ricky Calvert, Warsaw; two grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; a great-greatgranddaughter; brother, Garry Win-
terrowd, Florida; and sister-in-law, Susie Brown.
Services were held July 9 at King Memorial Home, Mentone. Interment took place in Rochester IOOF Cemetery. Graveside military rites were performed by the Fulton County Honor Guard.
Margaret Jean Burkett Renfroe
Margaret Jean Burkett Renfroe, 96, Logansport, formerly of Akron, died July 6, 2024.
She was born April 1, 1928. On Dec. 30, 1993, she married Orville Renfroe. He preceded her in death Nov. 9, 1996.
Surviving are her children, Michael Joe Walters, Claypool, and Diane Anspach, Logansport; four grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and 20 great-great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 20, at Hartzler Funeral Home, 305 W. Rochester St., Akron. Interment will take place following the service in Athens Cemetery. Memorial visitation hours will be held from 10 a.m. to the time of the service Saturday at the funeral home.
Samson James Rowe
Samson James Rowe was stillborn at 8:13 p.m. July 8, 2024.
Surviving are his parents, Samuel and Samphosh Rowe, Warsaw; a sister, Madlynn Rowe, Fort Wayne; maternal grandmother, Sophy Bik, Warsaw; maternal grandfather, Buntheang Lung, Warsaw; paternal grandmother, Patty Maynard, Wabash; paternal grandfather, James Rowe, Gas City; two uncles; and three aunts.
Graveside services were held July 12 at LaFontaine IOOF Cemetery. McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, was in charge of arrangements.
Katina Renee Salyer
Katina Renee Salyer, 52, North Webster, formerly of Claypool, died July 8, 2024.
She was born June 3, 1972. She married David Salyer, who survives.
Also surviving are her children, Eric Salyer, Alexander Salyer and Brianna Elliott, all of Fort Wayne; four grandchildren with one on the way; her mother, Susan Johnson; and siblings, April Stevens, Jason Hamilton, Josh Hamilton and Ashlee White.
A Life Celebration was held July 10 at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw. A private graveside service was held at North Webster Cemetery Mock Addition.
Mervin
L. Schrock
Mervin L. Schrock, 91, Goshen, died July 10, 2024.
He was born July 21, 1932. On June 6, 1959, he married Anna Mary Stoltzfus; she survives.
Also surviving are daughters, Kellie Weigel, Syracuse, Cindy Bontrager, Topeka, and Kim Maurer, Dunlap; eight grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and siblings, Anna Marie Miller, Millersburg, Ohio, Verda Yoder, Goshen, Vera Yoder, Middlebury, and Ernest Schrock, Goshen.
Visitation was held July 14 at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen.
A private burial took place July 15 at Union Center Cemetery, Nappanee. A memorial service followed burial at Harvest Community Church, Goshen.
Dixie Lee Pittman
Sheetz
Dixie Lee Pittman Sheetz, 76, Bremen, died July 7, 2024.
She was born Dec. 9, 1947. On Aug. 31, 1968, she married Michael Lee Sheetz; he survives.
She is also survived by a daughter, Suzanna Dodds, Indianapolis; brother, Doyle Pittman, Hixson, Tenn.; a niece; and a nephew.
A private service was held with burial at Bremen Cemetery. Mishler Funeral Home, Bremen, was in charge of arrangements.
Adonis James Smith
Adonis James Smith, 5 months, Warsaw, died June 29, 2024.
He was born Jan. 8, 2024.
Surviving are his parents, Xavier Smith and Brandy Maple Smith, Silver Lake; sister, Everly Grace Smith; grandparents, Christy Barber, James and Raelynne Smith and Jacob Maple; great-grandmothers, Sue Penn and Janice Rhodes; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.
The family is grieving privately at this time. Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw was in charge of arrangements.
Lester Howard Smith
Lester Howard Smith, 83, Texas, formerly of Warsaw, died July 2, 2024.
He was born June 15, 1941.
Surviving are sons, Christopher Smith, Lantana, Texas, and Tyson L. Smith, Carrollton, Texas; three grandchildren; and sister, Thelma Clark, Leesburg.
Services were held July 13 at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw, with military rites conducted by members of the American Legion Post 49, VFW Post 1126, both of Warsaw, and active duty members of the Air Force Honor Guard.
Mark Daniel Stamper
Mark Daniel Stamper, 62, Elkhart, formerly of Warsaw, died July 8, 2024.
He was born Dec. 15, 1961.
He is survived by his wife, Beverly “Bev” Stamper; father, Donny Stamper, Ligonier; children, Bryan Stamper,
Births
Kenlin James Schmucker
Stephen and Karen (Miller) Schmucker, Milford, are the parents of a son, Kenlin James, born at 10:52 p.m. July 2, 2024. He weighed 6 pounds, 9 ounces.
Sadie Jane Miller
Matthew and Elizabeth (Yoder) Miller, Nappanee, are the parents of a daughter, Sadie Jane, born at 6:55 a.m. July 5, 2024, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 8 pounds, 15 ounces, and was 20 inches long.
Maternal grandparents are Elmer and Sarah Yoder, New Paris. Paternal grandparents are Kenneth and Waneta Miller, Middlebury.
Sadie joins a sister, Sarah Grace.
Trent Stamper and Holly Tackett, all of Warsaw, Katie Stamper, Nappanee, and Quinten Stamper, Atwood; stepdaughter, Alisha Miller, Vandalia, Mich.; 11 grandchildren with one on the way; two great-grandchildren; brother, Dee Jay Stamper, Warsaw; sister, Kassie Tennant, Leesburg; and his ex-wife, Peggy Beck.
A life celebration will be held at a later date at Fribley Field. Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw was in charge of arrangements.
Patrick Eugene Stillson
Patrick Eugene Stillson, 74, Bremen, died July 4, 2024.
He was born April 13, 1950. On July 3, 1971, he married Beverly Tepool; she survives.
Also surviving are his children, Andrew Stillson, Wakarusa, and Amber Stillson, Bremen; seven grandchildren; and a brother, Mike Stillson, Bremen.
Per his wishes, cremation will take place. A celebration of life will be held from 1-4 p.m. Aug. 18 at Doc’s Pavilion, 116 W. Waterford St., Wakarusa. Michael Strong
Michael Strong, Syracuse, died July 11, 2024.
Arrangements are currently pending at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse.
Albert Ray Yoder
Albert Ray Yoder, 93, Bourbon, died at 2:09 p.m. July 8, 2024.
He was born Sept. 5, 1930. On Oct. 17, 1957, he married Ruby J. Borkholder. She preceded him in death June 9, 2019.
Surviving are sons, John Earl Yoder, Nappanee, Wayne Yoder, Bourbon, Robert Yoder and Daniel Yoder, both of Bremen, and Mark Yoder, Trout Creek, Mont.; daughters, Sarah Kauffman, Nappanee, and Rosemary Yoder, Etna Green; 51 grandchildren; 72 great-grandchildren; brothers, Robert Yoder, Walnut Creek, Ohio, Monroe Yoder, Sugar Creek, Ohio, Aden Yoder, Tuscan, Ariz., and Roman Yoder, New Philadelphia, Ohio; and a sister, Emma Troyer, Mt. Hope, Ohio. Services were held July 11 at the family residence in Bourbon. Burial was in Weldy Cemetery, Nappanee. Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee, was in charge of arrangements.
Rylee Janae Martin
Zachary and Rosetta (Imhoff) Martin, Goshen, are the parents of a daughter, Rylee Janae, born at 9:53 a.m. July 8, 2024, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 7 pounds, 6 ounces, and was 19 1/2 inches long.
Oliver Gage Gingerich
Daniel and Audrey (Landis) Gingerich, Nappanee, are the parents of a son, Oliver Gage, born at 3:15 a.m. July 10, 2024, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 8 pounds, 8.6 ounces, and was 20 inches long.
Hazel Ivory Miller
Kevin and Julia (Miller) Miller, Bremen, are the parents of a daughter, Hazel Ivory, born at 7:12 p.m. July 10, 2024. She weighed 8 pounds.
HATTON-SADLER FUNERAL CHAPELS
“Our families serving your family with professionalism, compassion and care.”
Pierceton and Warsaw Michael and Tracy Wilson
C ounty R epo R t
Court News
Small Claims
The following small claims have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:
Glenbrook Credit Acceptance Corp.
v. Ridley L. Brown, $8,163.33; v. Joshua Martinez, $4,517.02
Hollar Dental Group v. James Buckles, $1,144.20
CommunityWide Federal Credit Union v. Marsha J. Carey, $431.75
Peak Performance Orthopedic v. Jeremy W. Cox, $2,241.89
Partners 1st Federal Credit Union v. Emily Davis, $7,786.53
The Allergy & Asthma Center v. Rhonda Esselstrom, $574.89
Vanderpool Law Firm PC v. Johnnie Gipson, $500; v. Jacob Urednick, $1,759
Marineland Gardens Homeowners Association Inc. v. Henry Dale Kober, $1,170
Fort Wayne Neurology v. Mark Northern, $568.77
Grote Automotive Inc. d/b/a Grote Mitsubishi v. Ousley Holdings LLC, $1,316.27
SAC Finance Inc. v. Preston M. West, $9,726.15 Civil Collections
The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler presiding:
Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. Cassandra M. Barrett, $3,450.81; v. Andrew N. Meloy, $4,941.18; v. Mark A. Porter, $6,012.91; v. Terry Robertson, $1,993.09
Midland Credit Management Inc. v. Liberti Baxter, $1,472.91; Alicia Dese, $924.52; Daniel S. Hancock, $3,820.48; Daytona Johnston, $2,625.13; Douglas Latosha, $4,537.40
Discover Bank v. Williams Bonilla, $6,350.45
Autovest LLC of Indiana v. James M. Buskirk, Janet S. Lee, $7,860.58
Jefferson Capital Systems LLC v. Kelly Clapp, Jack Miles, $7,304.88; v. Bobbi France, $3,459.31; v. Julia Ganoe, $3,461.44
Gateway Financial Solutions v. Christopher Cochran Jr., Lana Jennings, $11,583.38
Freeflow Environmental v. Michelle Cook, $4,127
DNF Associates LLC v. Kimberly Manns, $3,604.44
Ally Bank v. Tony L. Miller, $4,793.90
Interra Credit Union v. Amanda K. Patrick, $6,400.14
Credit Service International v. Donald Stone, $828.08
TD Bank USA NA v. Angela Vickery, $1,690.41
Everwise Credit Union f/k/a Teachers Credit Union v. John V. Wood, $1,915.19
Glenbrook Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Renea E. York, $15,164.18 Civil Torts
The following civil tort has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler presiding: Progressive Southeastern Insurance Co. v. Ashley Jefferson, $4,870.83 Evictions
The following evictions have been
p ubli C A u C tions
Community Health Clinic
Benefit Auction
4:30 p.m. Friday, July 19. Located at Claywood Event Center, 13924 N. 1100W, Nappanee.
Sidney Trade Center
Online Auction
Bidding open until 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 19. Pickup located at 307 S. Main St., Sidney. Tents, canopies, sheds, patio umbrellas, grills, furniture, light fixtures, planters, lawn equipment. Bid online at metzgerauction.com.
Metzger Property Services.
Farm Real Estate Auction
10 a.m. Saturday, July 20. Located at 7801 N. 600W, Roann. 18 acres, vehicle, trailer, tractor, equipment, tools, hunting and fishing, canoes, taxidermy and tannery, antiques, primitives and household. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Online Model Auction
Bidding open until 7:30 p.m. Monday, July 22. Model trains, landmark buildings, tracks, accessories by Walthers, Bachmann and more. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Bid online at metzgerauction.com. Metzger Property Services.
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.
Online Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 23. Property located at 96 EMS T7B Ln., Leesburg. Open house 5:30-6 p.m. Tuesday, July 16. 4,270 sq. ft. home, 5-bed, 4 1/2 bath with Lake James frontage. Bid online at metzge-
awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Neighbors of Village Estates LLC v. Lisa Amburgy, $6,792
Sherri Makinson v. Jennifer Barrone, $5,075; v. Heydin O’Loughlin, Jayden Yon, $6,630.50 Mortgage Foreclosures
The following mortgage foreclosure has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:
First Federal Savings Bank v. Roy Lee Mullins, $68,868.71
PennyMac Loan Services LLC v. Aaron E. Torbet, $199,118.67 Superior Court III
The following fines for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:
Speeding — Christian R. Nine, Rochester, $164.50; Katelyn M. Avery, Warsaw, $164.50; Logan J. Bartlow, Leesburg, $164.50; Shawn A. Collins, Milford, $164.50; Brandon A. Cardona, Warsaw, $164.50; Hilari K. Carpenter, Nappanee, $164.50; Rachelle E. Blankenship, Pierceton, $164.50
No valid driver’s license — Rodney E. Castellano, Warsaw, $164.50
Failure to register — Cole R. Williamson, Atwood, $164.50; Brittney L. Overlander, Warsaw, $164.50; Bryan R. Ruiz Espinoza, Warsaw; Nikhil K. Narra, Warsaw, $164.50
Disregarding lighted signal, no valid driver’s license — Kendrea A. Mock, Etna Green, $189.50
Failure of occupant to use a safety belt — Sarah E. Smith, Claypool, $25; Jacqueline S. Kersey, Winona Lake, $25; Lisa S. Fitzgerald,
rauction.com. Metzger Property Services.
Online Only Antique Auction
Bidding open until 7 p.m.
Tuesday, July 23. Primitives and antiques, advertising, crocks, greenhouse supplies, vintage electronics, whiskey barrels, conveyor system, glass, jewelry, furniture. Pickup located in North Manchester, exact details in winning invoice. Bid online at metzgerauction.com. Metzger Property Services.
Online Kitchen Cabinet Auction
Bidding open until 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 23. Pickup located at 2568 S. Country Club Road, Warsaw. Kitchen cabinets direct from manufacturer. Bid online at metzgerauction.com. Metzger
Property Services.
Online Equipment Auction
6 p.m. Wednesday, July 24. Located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Vehicles, trucks, vans, cars, farm equipment - trailers. Bid online at bidmetzger.com. Metzger Property Services.
David & Constance Heckaman - Deceased Owner
10 a.m. Saturday, July 27. Located at 10970 N. SR 13, Syracuse. 1,344 sq. ft. house with attached 2-car garage on 50’ x 175’ lot. 20’x13’ kitchen with stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, 15’’x20 living room, walkout basement, city sewage, concrete patio with stairs to lake, pier included. ’Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Warsaw, $25
Disregarding lighted signal — Isrrael E. Espina Sanchez, Warsaw, $164.50
No valid driver’s license, speeding — Elder O. Garcia Cordova, Warsaw, $189.50
Disregarding stop sign — Hazel Y. Soto Torres, Warsaw, $164.50
Address or name change violation, driving left of center — Orlando J. Carbajal Rodas, Warsaw, $189.50
Marriage
Licenses
The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court Anne Torpy: Hardy-McGarvey
Austin Michael Hardy, 28, Claypool, and Courtney Marie McGarvey, 27, Claypool Wihebrink-Kitt
Delaney Wihebrink, 23, Warsaw, and Evan Kitt, 23, Leesburg Snodgrass-Danko
Tiffany Jean Snodgrass, 30, Warsaw, and Zachary Richard Donald Danko, 29, Warsaw McCord-Harding
Marcus Wayne McCord, 41, Warsaw, and Alaina Leighan Jacynthia Harding, 43, Mentone Fretz-Moore
Rochelle Kay Fretz, 24, Warsaw, and William Austin Moore, 25, Warsaw
Aca-Zempoaltecatl-Garrido
Michelle Aca-Zempoaltecatl, 24, Claypool, and Jose Manuel Silvestre Garrido, 24, Warsaw Sootsman-Ryman
Marissa Ann Sootsman, 24, Warsaw, and Shaylee Lynne Ryman, 22, Warsaw Neal-Talbot
Mackenzie Ryan Neal, 29, Leesburg, and Rebekah Lynn Talbot, 28, LaPorte Cielo-Montoya
Lourdes Moyotl Cielo, 29, Warsaw, and Gerson Gamaliel Montoya, 25, Warsaw Spencer-Reed
Curtis Neal Spencer, 43, Warsaw, and Heather Nicole Reed, 40, Warsaw Rice-Rice
Brent Anthony Rice, 63, Pierceton, and Becky S. Rice , 62, Pierceton
Giek-Kohler
Brandon Patrick Giek, 24, Warsaw, and Kyla Nicolle Kohler, 24, Warsaw Ball-Neer
Alexander Matthew Ball, 26, Syracuse, and Tyra Ray Neer, 22, Syracuse Pena-Shepherd
Shane H. Pena, 33, Akron, and Natasha L. Shepherd, 40, Claypool Moser-Kaylor-Hochstetler
Wyatt Eugene Moser, 19, Ligonier, and Alexis McKenna Kaylor-Hochstetler, 19, Warsaw Deno-Lesko
Abigail Faye Deno, 22, West Lafayette, and Nicholas James Lesko, 22, Warsaw Rodriguez-Ramirez
Jaico Melendez Rodriguez, 25, Nappanee, and Jennifer Ramirez, 21, Warsaw Wilken-Cierpilowski
Trace Michael T. Wilken, 23, Syracuse, and Tracey Michelle Cierpilowski, 58, Syracuse
Marriage
Dissolutions
The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in Kosciusko Superior Courts I and IV:
Smith — Rick Smith, Warsaw, and Autumn Smith, Syracuse. They were married Oct. 13, 2018, and separated Oct. 29, 2022. No minor children.
Davis-Landry — Beth N. Davis, Syracuse, and Brandon D. Landry, Warsaw. They were married July 2, 2019, and separated Dec. 14, 2022. One minor child.
Wine — Justin Wine, Nappanee, and Heather Wine, Nappanee. They were married Dec. 17, 2008, and separated Sept. 1, 2021. Three minor children. Maples — Alishia Maples, Warsaw, and Paul Maples, Warsaw. One minor child. No other information was available.
Funk — Tiffany L. Funk, Warsaw, and Jeffrey A. Funk, Warsaw. They were married Sept. 29, 2018, and separated Nov. 23, 2023. Two minor children.
Boyer — Ashley D. Boyer, Warsaw, and Brandon Boyer, Warsaw. They were married April 7, 2015; no separation date given. No minor children. Jones — Shanon Jones, Warsaw, and Dennis Jones, Warsaw. They were married May 3, 2003; no separation date given. No minor children.
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Have you heard the Buzz???
The Syracuse Park Department and Community Center have a calendar full of events to keep its community active and healthy this summer.
The 13th annual Tour des Lakes will be held Saturday, July 20 and will tour around eight beautiful lakes in Kosciusko County. There are three route options; 30k, 55k and 100k. The 100k will bring riders around Lake Wawasee, Webster Lake, Chapman Lake, Winona Lake and Tippecanoe Lake. There will be SAG stops for a quick healthy snack and drink, and lunch when you return to the Community Center. A portion of the proceeds are used for the continued growth of the Syracuse-Wawasee Trail system. To register, visit tourdeslakes.com/ register/.
CLASSIFIEDS WORK
To stay-up-to date with Syracuse Parks and Recreation happenings, “like” the organization on Facebook at facebook.com/ syracuseparks/.
Community Center
• Strength training: 5:15 a.m.
Monday and Wednesday
• Walking: 8 a.m. Monday-Saturday
• Yoga: 10 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday and 9 a.m.
Tuesday and Thursday
• Euchre: 10 a.m. MondayFriday
• Pickleball: 10 a.m. MondayFriday
The Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N. Long Drive, has been open since the summer of 2002. Since its opening, it has become home to several community events as well as daily use for all ages. The Community Center is home to a computer lab, fitness room, senior citizen area, gymnasium and additional rooms that are available for rent. The Community Center is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays. For further information about what the Syracuse Community Center has to offer, call (574) 457-3440. To stay up-to-date on community center happenings, follow on Facebook.
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
