the Paper - Kosciusko County Edition - July 19, 2023

GUINNESS WORLD RECORD

Have you ever dreamed of being a world record holder, but didn’t quite have the ability or knowledge to make that a reality? Well, here’s your opportunity to be part of an attempt toward immortality.

An attempt will be made on Winona Lake to create the “Longest Chain of Floating Inflatables” beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 9. Not only will this event hopefully break the previous mark certified by the Guinness Book of World Records, but organizers also hope it will bring awareness to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis disease, better known as ALS. It may be even better known as Lou Gehrig’s disease after the hall of fame Yankees first baseman, who died of the affliction in the prime of his life at age 38 in 1941.

The attempt is being organized by Winona resident, Erin Serafino, in honor of her aunt, Anje Anglin, who was diagnosed with ALS in March 2022.

Serafino was looking for a way to somehow bring attention to Warsaw and the community by setting some sort of world record, perhaps utilizing one of the lakes. Around the same time, Anglin was looking to put together an event/fundraiser for ALS awareness. A light came on and the two goals were merged into one special event.

“She (Anglin) was working with a group that suggested she do an event to raise awareness,” Serafino said. “She wanted to do a walk or a 5K or something, and I thought maybe we could combine these two ideas and do something a little different. She grew up around here and spent a lot of time here on the lakes, as did I. We have a lot of good memories on the lakes, and it just made sense to do something on the water.”

Serafino had to apply through Guinness to set a record. She was sent a list of rules and began planning the effort. They had hoped to do it in July, but logistics necessitated it being moved back to September.

“The local police, DNR and fire department really want to help,” she said. “The DNR suggested we file an event permit, which takes

60 has been very helpfulin us

60 days. The fairgrounds has been very helpful in allowing us to stage there and enter the water from the fairgrounds, as well as providing parking. We want to keep everyone contained for safety but also to follow the rules for Guinness.”

To set the record, the floats must be tied together. They can be of any size and shape, but cannot overlap. All floats must be inflatable, filled with either gas or air; no mats are allowed. The inflatable must be able to be tied together with those on either side without gaps. Everyone must bring their own inflatable and life vest, per the DNR.

The lineup starts at 9 a.m. and will enter from two spots. Rope will be available, but they ask that participants bring their own, if possible.

There will be a drone overhead and a surveyor on site to measure the chain. The current record is 0.62 miles

“The inflatable can be enormous, as long as there’s someone in it,” said Serafino. “We’re going for 0.7 miles, which would require around 1,000 people. We only have around 90 people registered, so we have a long ways to go.”

Everyone is invited to participate. Preregistration is requested at https://forms.gle/yTPZMnhFwYwLwmP89. Each adult should fill out an individual registration form; however, any children under 18 can be added on with an adult. Participation is free, although

there is an opportunity to donate to an ALS fund that has been established to help Anglin as she battles the disease.

For further information, search for “Anje’s ALS Fundraiser” on Facebook, or email Serafino at erinserafino@gmail.com.

K NOW Y OUR N EIGHBOR

WEF director leads Warsaw Education Foundation

She also is currently working for OrthoWorx in talent development. WEF is her part-time role.

inflatables, a life vest, and a rope. Participation is at your own risk.

Erin Serafino, executive director of the Warsaw Education Foundation, is a multi-faceted person. Serafino became WEF’s executive director in December 2021 after former Director Barb Smolen retired. A former school teacher, she now works a fulltime job, a part-time job, and runs her own business.

She grew up in Akron, she said, “with my fondest memories on Rock Lake.”

She graduated from Tippecanoe Valley High School in 1998, Indiana University in 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, and Indiana Wesleyan in 2009 with a master’s in business administration.

She started as an elementary school teacher and spent three years teaching fourth grade at Lincoln Elementary School in Warsaw. She worked at Zimmer in a couple of roles, spent some time at Biomet (pre-merger), taught middle school art for a year, and was a sales manager for a health education company for eight years.

“I applied for the executive director role at WEF because I was so tired of some politicians and some of the media blaming public schools and teachers for their perceived or fabricated problems,” she said. “I was looking for a way to use that energy to positively support teachers. Public school teachers deserve all the support and respect a community can offer.”

WEF’s biggest event is the Quiz Bowl held in March each year.

“Last year, my husband was the emcee, and we had a lot of fun. This year’s Quiz Bowl is going to be even more fun,” she said.

She invites the public to watch the WEF Facebook page for updates and enroll a team of five for March’s Quiz Bowl.

“Proceeds support grants for teachers’ projects that directly benefit our kids in Warsaw,”

She is leading a Guinness World Record attempt to break the record for the “Longest Chain of Floating Inflatables” in Winona Lake Sept. 9, to raise awareness of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Her aunt, Anje Anglin, was diagnosed with ALS in March 2022.

“We want to raise awareness of ALS, support Anje in her ALS journey, and have a good time celebrating this community. We invite the community to join us. The current record is 0.6 miles so we need a lot of people with their inflatables,”

“The fairgrounds has been very helpful and is allowing us to set up there.

See the Facebook event, “Breaking a Guinness World Record Event on Winona Lake and Anje’s ALS Fundraiser,” for details and to register online.

Pre-registration is required. Participants can bring their own

Married to husband, Mark, they live in Winona Lake and enjoy spending time in Winona Lake and Sedona, Ariz. She has one son who is going to be a freshman at Warsaw Community High School.

Over the last couple of years, she has started her own side business leading yoga, retreats, and offering hypnotherapy services.

is a certified yoga instructor and a certified hypnotherapist. She likes to hike, bike, boat, write, do art and event planning.

For more information about Serafino’s yoga classes, visit www.erinserafino.com.

For more information about WEF or to sign up for Quiz Bowl, visit facebook.com/WarsawEducationFoundation or sites.google. com/warsawschools.org/warsaweducationfoundation/home.

Lilly Center announces new summer event

The Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams is offering a unique and educational experience from 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 26, at Bock Nature Preserve, 815 E. Rural St., Akron.

Gavin King, the stewardship assistant of ACRES Land Trust, will lead a Summer Wildflower ID Hike. Join him to learn about different wildflower species and how to identify them on a beautiful hike.

The Lilly Center hosts other summer community events.

“Critter Encounter: Mystery Critter” will be held 9:30 a.m. Friday, July 21, at the Lilly Center, 1 Lancer Way, Winona Lake. Interact with a to-be-announced critter through a themed critter tale, critter creation, and critter activity. RSVP required. It is free, with snacks provided.

“Aquatic Plant ID Expedition” will be held from 6-7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 10. Spend an evening outside at the Tri-Lakes with Matthew Linn, a DNR biologist, and learn about the diverse aquatic plants in the lakes. RSVP required. For more information and to register for events, visit lakes. grace.edu/events.

Bender’s kindness earns her Gardener Award

Ann Bender, imaging registrar, recently was awarded Goshen Health’s Gardener Award for the thoughtfulness she showed to a patient.

The patient, Gordon Bontrager, wrote in the nomination, “I have to get MRIs every six months and request CDs of the images to upload to my surgeon in Chicago. Without asking, Ann graciously provides her hospital number allowing me to call and tell her when I expect to arrive at the back door closest to imaging. When she gets a free moment, she brings the image disk to my car. What a difference one employee can make in a patient’s day. Is

the 1.5 minutes handy for her? Probably not. But she recognizes that it is a little, mostly unnoticed thing she can do for patients to make their day that much easier.”

“We appreciate Ann’s attentiveness to our patients’ needs. She is exceptionally thoughtful and generous in these acts of kindness that mean so much and build stronger relationships with our patients,” said Michelle Sinkovics, director of imaging, Goshen Health. “We love having her on our team.”

The Gardener Award recognizes the exceptional contributions of Goshen Health Colleagues in helping the organization fulfill its

mission of improving the health of the community by providing innovative and outstanding care.

To find out more about the Gardener Award, visit GoshenHealth.com/About-Us/GardenerAward. Nominations can also be submitted through this link.

We LEAD Kosciusko event invites community members to be ‘change-makers’

The Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program Kosciusko invites all who live and work in the community to “We LEAD Kosciusko,” a call-out event for those interested in volunteering and leading in Kosciusko County.

The event will take place from 4-6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 3, at Wyndham Garden Hotel, 2519 E. Center St., Warsaw. The purpose is to bring together local leaders and residents for connection, learning, and information sharing about community and public service opportunities. The idea came to life through the work of a HELP Kosciusko project group.

“The idea is to engage and support new leaders in our community,” said Kosciusko County Community Coordinator Amy Roe. “Whether you’re interested in running for public office, serving on a nonprofit or service club board, or leading in another capacity, it’s important that together as a community, we share opportunities and insight to support people as they explore and step into these roles.”

The event will include a keynote presentation from Fort Wayne native and Hoosier leader, Eric Doden, as well as remarks from local leader, Leo Patiño of Indiana Tech Warsaw, about the importance of leading where you live. Attendees will also have the opportunity to engage with a lineup of leaders covering several local opportunity areas including: public service and elected office, community boards, nonprofit organizations, service clubs and Kosciusko Leadership Academy.

“I hope community-minded members will join us to learn about opportunities to serve in Kosciusko County. Whether you are interested in an elected position, appointed government board, nonprofit board, civic organization membership or enrolling in the leadership acad-

emy, I hope there is something to excite you about the possibilities to give back to Kosciusko County,” said Kosciusko County councilwoman and project member, Sue Ann Mitchell. “One of my favorite sayings is, ‘No one of us is as smart as all of us.’ Come join us as there is room for many to serve in our community.”

The event will also honor a fellow Hoosier leader, who has gone before. Aug. 3 is significant in that it marks the one-year anniversary of the passing of Indiana Rep. Jackie Walorski.

“As a leader and community advocate, who was deeply passionate about public service and creating positive change for Hoosiers, what better way to honor Rep. Walorski than to bring people together to learn about community building, with the goal of bringing forth more public servants,” said Roe. “Let’s honor her legacy by empowering and supporting more ‘change-makers’ in our communities.”

Open connection time and networking will follow the presentation and memorial portions of the event.

“Our hope is that people walk away with more information and resources, valuable connections, and direction as to what might interest them. We’ve received some inquiries from organizations about setting up individual booths at the event –– we’re not offering that opportunity since this is meant to offer a high-level overview. However, we will share a flyer directing attendees to more information about what’s available in our community and how to get involved,” said Roe.

The event is free to attend; light refreshments will be provided. If you and/or a guest plan to attend, RSVP by Friday, July 21 to: bit.ly/ WeLEADKosciusko2023.

This event is hosted by HELP Kosciusko with support from Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation, and sponsored by K21 Health Foundation and Kosciusko County Community Foundation.

More about immersive art exhibits

Immersive art exhibits are an exceptional new way of learning about various famous artists. I have been very fortunate to visit

two of these this year. Just last week, I visited the Van Gogh exhibition at the Fort Wayne with two of my daughters. It was mesmerizing.

Van Gogh was a self-taught artist who struggled for recognition

in the early days of the impressionist movement. Prior to the rise of artwork of the impressionists, traditional art was precise, normally painted indoors, and produced work in which the subjects were wealthy upper-class patrons.

Van Gogh not only struggled to get his work accepted but he dealt with mental problems. He spent a good part of his later years in a mental institution where he produced some of his best works. Today, this artist, who sold only one painting during his entire life, would be shocked to see the prices being paid for his work in current auctions. His beautiful art is now far more appreciated than the more staid, proper work of the typical artists of the time preceding Van Gogh.

The event at the Coliseum will fascinate you as much as the Monet thrilled those of us, who were privileged to see that immersive project recently in Indianapolis. We entered the Coliseum in anticipation, and we were not disappointed.

I very much encourage you to obtain tickets and go visit this stellar presentation about Van Gogh. You will learn much about him and his life along with developing a deeper appreciation for his breathtaking and excellent work.

Vincent van Gogh signed many of his paintings with a simple “Vincent” because he identified a great deal with poverty and the lower classes. He was a Dutch painter, born Vincent Willem van Gogh.

He became fabulously popular, beginning with the period only 10 years after his death. He was compared by critics, who said he was the greatest artist after Rembrandt and some even thought his work to be among the greatest of the post impressionists.

He sold only one painting during his life, but in the century after his death, he became perhaps the most recognized painter of all time. As we entered the exhibit, we walked between high suspended black drapery halls with also suspended picture frames.

of the ceiling. We heard music begin to play synchronized with the scenes that were now illuminating the space all around us (even the floor) with lights and scenes of Van Gogh’s masterpieces.

We spent the rest of our time enthralled with this moving tribute to the work of Vincent Van Gogh. It was amazing. You really need to go see it. It is unlike anything you have ever seen in the world of art.

“Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience” is through Aug. 10. There is a charge of $8 for parking, plus a ticket fee. For more information, call (260) 4829502 or go to www.memorialcoliseum.com/event-calendar/eventdetails?EventID=25714.

Events

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Then we noticed behind each frame was a lighted piece that showed either a quote from Van Gogh or something depicting information about him. So we began learning about this artist as we proceeded through the darkened halls.

In a short walk, we arrived at a turn and a guide showed us the sign that said, “Gogh this way” and pointed us through the humorous direction to a huge open expanse that reached to the top

• Lakeland Art Center and Gallery: The current juried

show of local artwork runs through July 22. Gallery hours are from 11:30 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and admission is free. Gallery is located at 302 E. Winona Ave., Warsaw. For more information, email lakelandartassociation@ gmail.com.

• Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery: Artist Sam Hoffman will be bringing his delightful artwork to the Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery, beginning July 6. Warsaw City Hall is located at 102 S. Buffalo St., Warsaw; gallery is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Admission is free.

To exhibit at Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery, contact Darla McCammon, curator, at (574) 5274044 (leave a message) or send an email to mcdar7@gmail.com.

Play bingo in Mentone July 20 for chance at a jackpot

The Bell Aircraft Museum in Mentone will be hosting a bingo game Thursday, July 20.

A guaranteed jackpot of $500 will be given away. Food will be available at the event. The cost

is $15.

Doors will open at 4:30 p.m., with early bird play starting at 5:30 p.m. and regular rounds at 6 p.m.

The Bell Aircraft Museum is located at 210 S. Oak St.

Lilly Center ecotours help you get to know your lakes

The Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams at Grace College has been teaming up this week with local lake associations to host educational tours of some lakes in Kosciusko County.

Tours still on tap, beginning at 7 p.m., include Winona Lake Thursday, July 13, and Lake Tippecanoe Friday, July 14. Earlier this week, there were ecotours of Big Chapman Lake on Monday and Lake Wawasee on Tuesday.

Ecotours let people explore what it takes to be a lake scientist. A new format this year means you can help collect data from your local lake with the guidance of a Lilly Center intern.

When you meet the group on the lake, you can allow a member of the student team to board your boat along with a variety of research equipment. College interns provide an interactive

experience as they demonstrate how the Lilly Center conducts research.

Participants can follow along from the comfort of their own boat as Lilly Center Director Nate Bosch narrates the tour on an FM radio station. You will have the opportunity to text your question and comments to Bosch at any time during the event.

During an ecotour, you will learn about data and information that is specific to your lake:

• Depth, sediment and clarity.

• Lake food chains.

• Dissolved oxygen levels.

• Lake stratification.

•Algae and aquatic weed identification.

Ecotours are free to the public, thanks to sponsorship from the Zimmer Biomet Foundation. To register for an ecotour and for more information, visit lakes.grace.edu/events.

Blacksmithing — The nearly lost art

“I picked up blacksmithing as a hobby, and like all of my hobbies, I try to include my kids in what I like to do. My son was in the recycling club, and so he took some old wrenches and turned them into a knife and it got displayed at the fair. Then, it got selected to go to state,” Michael Klotz, leader of the 4-H Blacksmithing Club, explained his start with blacksmithing.

Blacksmithing is a lost art; it was a common practice before the industrial revolution when most towns had their own local blacksmiths shop. This was the golden age for American blacksmithing due to the high demand for metal work in the rapidly developing communities.

Blacksmiths crafted crucial tools and hardwares for building homes and transportation. However, the mass production techniques brought by the industrial revolution that allowed for faster and cheaper made iron products nearly killed the blacksmithing industry.

The Elkhart 4-H Blacksmithing Club is the brainchild of Klotz,

Mark Yoder, Omar Hershberger and Robert Kelly. Yoder and Hershberger ran a blacksmithing shop that Klotz had volunteered at. Klotz and Kelly sat down for a meeting and outlined everything that needed to get done. The club opened in January 2023.

“There are about a dozen counties in Indiana that have blacksmithing programs, and I reached out to the leaders of several of those for some information and input. From those

conversations and information, I had to sit down and basically put together the curriculum and plan what projects to do based on the time frame we had for the fair,” explained Klotz.

There are four divisions within the Blacksmithing Club, and every student must complete a division before advancing to the next one. Members may not stay in a division for more than two years.

Division one focuses on basic skills, such as drawing out

square point, twists, 90 degree bends and scrolls. Students in division one will learn how to make “S” hooks, triangle dinner

bells and heart hooks.

Division two is intermediate and focuses on skills, like scrollContinued on page 7

Bill and Karen Jessop to be this year’s Elkhart County 4-H Fair parade marshals

Bill and Karen Jessop are both excited to be the parade marshals for this year’s Elkhart County 4-H Parade.

“It will be fun to get a different perspective,” said Karen. The couple usually watch the parade uptown with their family.

Each year, the two enjoy watching the parade go through downtown Goshen with the different clubs, floats and marching bands. The two were both 10-year 4-H members. They are also the parents of Fred Jessop, this year’s fair board president.

Growing up, Bill got involved after having brothers involved in 4-H. He had the grand champion steer in the 1962 Elkhart County Fair. It was the first year

the cattle show was in the show arena, which is now the Home and Family Arts Building.

When their children were old enough, Bill and Karen enrolled their children in 4-H. They said the changes at the fair were so gradual over the years; they said the one big change is the size of the fair. His first year he did gardening.

“When I saw the cattle, that was the last year for gardening. Then I started with beef,” Bill said.

When Bill was a member, he started showing cattle at Rice Field in Elkhart his first few years in 4-H and there were just tents for the animals.

They are also looking forward to visiting the different food stands.

“You can eat anything you want,” Bill said.

Blacksmithing

Continued from page 6

ing, riveting, slitting and punching. Students in division two will make a coat rack.

Division three is advanced, and focuses on skills, like riveting, twisting, tapering, scrolling, punching, collaring, mortise and tenon. Students in division three will make a plant hanger and

shelf brackets. Division four is artistic. In this division, students will have a chance to demonstrate all of the skills they have learned and mastered in previous divisions.

The project made is up to the member, but must have the approval of the club leaders.

The club is made up of 12

During her 4-H career, Karen did sewing and baking. She also won the county demonstration contest and had the opportunity to go to the state fair. She’s also been in charge of the pork producers booth for a number of years.

“That was a lot of fun. It wasn’t as big as it is now,” she said.

As their children and grandchildren aged out of 4-H, the Jessops still found reason to be at the fair even if it was just to go to supper.

They also helped a daughter with her booth in the commercial building during the fair.

“It gets in your blood,” Karen said. “People come out to the fair and thinks it just happens. There’s a lot of work people do that they aren’t recognized for. It takes a lot of people to make this work.”

members, and run three onehour groups with four kids each on the second Monday night of each month. Because of spacing restraints, the amount of spots are very limited. However, the club leaders are working diligently, trying to come up with ways to allow more members to join.

4-H builds friendships and traces family lineage

Since 4-H was founded more than 100 years ago, it has become the nation’s largest youth development organization.

4-H focuses on helping young people and their families gain the skills needed to be proactive forces in their communities and develop ideas for a more innovative economy.

Although impacting every member, 4-H has left a big impact on one local member, Pierce Lucas.

“4-H is a large part of why I am who I am,” Lucas explained.

Lucas is 14 and was homeschooled during the earlier part of his school years. Because of this,

he struggled to make friends, until he joined 4-H. Lucas has been a participant in 4-H for the last six years, and he likes it more and more each year.

Lucas’ mom played an instrumental role in his signing up.

“I was looking for a way to make friends, and my mom said she always wished she was a part of 4-H, so I figured why not,” Lucas said.

The plan worked, Lucas raved about all the friends he has made, and continues to make, through his time in 4-H. The friends he has made is his favorite part of 4-H.

When asked what he will remember about 4-H, he said, “Everything.” But his favorite memories include the camps and trips

he has been apart of and the 4-H Roundup.

The 4-H Roundup takes place on the Purdue University campus. The event is open to members in grades seven to nine, and participants sign up for a couple classes. Although the topics vary class to class, the over-arching goal is to help build skills.

Lucas also wants to set the record straight.

“4-H is more than animals,” he said.

He explained how he and his mom jokes how 4-H is 50/50, “farmer 4-H v. city 4-H.” The “farmer 4-H,” of course, being the animal raising and shows, and the “city 4-H” being the skill building aspect. Lucas is in the “city 4-H.”

He used to show dairy, but he gave that up to transition into being a Junior Leader. Lucas described being a Junior Leader as “a leader to some, a follower to others.” Some of Lucas’ favorite “city 4-H” activities include the Junior Leadership Program, Harrison Helpers Club, and the genealogy program.

Lucas is the secretary for the Junior Leadership Program. Through this program, Lucas learns about the community service and how to implement community service.

He was also able to attend the State Junior Leader Conference through the Junior Leadership Program.

“It’s designed to have a good time and learn about who you are as your own person,” Lucas explained. Participants of the conference sign up for eight classes, and topics range from sewing to

first aid to culture appreciation to rock painting and nutrition.

The Harrison Helpers Club is a small, local club. The club was one of Lucas’ first tastes of 4-H, having joined in the fourth grade. He also serves as the secretary in this club, so he is responsible for taking meeting minutes and helping lead the meeting with the president.

“You start with your parents and grandparents, and then after every year, you just add a ‘great’ and go from there,” explains Lucas. The genealogy project allows members to trace back their bloodlines as far as they can find.

Lucas managed to trace his family lineage back to the 1500s.

“It’s a lot of work, it’s a lot of

research. It’s cool to read about people that I have never met, but because they lived I do too,” Lucas explained. “People I don’t know impacted my life in ways they don’t know,” he said.

Registration for 4-H opens Sunday, Oct. 1. Joining members can enroll online at https:// v2.4honline.com. 4-H is available to anyone in grades 3-12.

Enrollment costs $15 per member, or for families signing up more then three members, $45. Any questions can be directed to the Purdue Extension Elkhart County Office at (574) 533-0554.

Frequently asked questions and answers can be found at extension.purdue.edu/county/ elkhart/4-h.html.

Elkhart County celebrating 150th fair

Shelly Wilfong, a member of the Elkhart County Fair Board, has been researching the history of the Elkhart County Fair. While this is the 150th fair, it is not the 150th annual fair. Wilfong, who is the assistant superintendent of Wawasee Community Schools in Syracuse, was a history major and a 10-year 4-H’er.

“I just enjoy looking at this stuff,” she said.

The first fair was held in Elkhart County in 1851 on the grounds of the Elkhart County

Courthouse in Goshen. At some point, the fair was moved to the area that is now Ninth and Madison Streets in Goshen.

During the Civil War, the fair took place twice, but records show they were small and not very successful.

“You could tell they were distracted,” Wilfong said.

From 1868-1873 there was no fair, the idea of holding an annual fair just fell by the wayside. In 1874, the fair was brought back with local papers calling it: “The first real fair,” while other sources called it the 16th fair.

It was during this time the fair organization purchased 20 acres east of US 33 and south of Fish Lake Road (now CR 34).

Wilfong said she found sources dating back to the 1970s, which showed area newspapers consid-

ered the fair in 1851 to be ‘the original” fair.

The 1874 fair is the first one that starts to look like the fair most people are familiar, with different projects along with livestock.

In 1892, the grandstand burned down with no official cause for the fire given.

“There were some who thought it wasn’t an accident,” Wilfong said. At the time, the grandstand was used for harness racing, which was extremely popular at the time.

Due to economic hardships from the year before and a national economic downturn, the 1893 fair was the last one as the property went into receivership. There was no fair from 18941907.

Continued on page 9

Fred Jessop — Elkhart County Fair board president for 150th fair

Fred Jessop is this year’s fair board president for the upcoming Elkhart County Fair. Jessop’s whole family has been involved in 4-H. His parents, Bill and Karen, were both 10-year 4-H’ers. Jessop himself was a 10-year 4-H’er and his children have also been involved in 4-H.

Jessop joined the fair board 10 years ago volunteering to help with the tractor pull. Jessop has participated in the tractor pull since the 1970s and joined the fair board’s subcommittee for the pull. His father said the worst part of the tractor pull was winning the first time, “then you’re hooked,” he said.

Jessop said the tractor pull is a fun hobby, but since he farms, he typically doesn’t have much time to participate as he did before.

“Things are pretty busy until mid-July, early August,” Bill said.

Jessop told Cork Wagner he

would be interested in taking over the tractor pull committee when Wagner decided to retire.

After being on the board for a few years, Jessop was appointed to the long-range planning committee and then to the executive committee.

The Elkhart County Fair Board has approximately 130 people with an executive committee of 12-13.

Jessop said he was really looking forward to the ribboncutting opening of the fair.

“I’m looking forward to getting it started,” he said.

He explained being fair board president now is easier since the fair has a general manager in the office. Prior to having a general manager, the fair board president needed to contribute a lot of time to organizing the fair.

As a fair board member, he said he misses being able to actually see the fair or going to the livestock shows since fair board members are usually busy doing a variety of tasks during the fair.

Elkhart County

Continued from page 8

In 1908, a new fair organization purchased the current fairgrounds and established the Elkhart County Fair organizations. Prior to this organization forming, the fair was operated by a local agriculture association.

In 1909, newspapers referred to that year’s fair as “the second fair,” even though it was actually the 36th fair held 58 years after the first fair in Elkhart County.

“That’s what’s so fun about history,” Wilfong said. “You think it’s pretty cut and dry, but it isn’t. It also shows the importance of good journalism. We’re looking at newspaper reports from 100 years ago. It shows how we’re looking at newspaper reports done 100 years ago.”

News reports in 1914 start using 1851 as the “start” date for the fair. 1914 was also the start of World War I. During the war, the fair is still held but it’s a smaller event. In 1920, there was not a fair and the fair property is put back into receivership, although Wilfong couldn’t find a reason why.

There was a fair in 1921 and the fair did make it through the

Great Depression. In 1940, the fair organization found itself in financial difficulties and the American Legion purchased the fairgrounds and took over operating the fair.

By this time, 4-H has been established and part of the fair, but there are no livestock exhibits because of an outbreak of polio. Later that year, a 4-H livestock exhibition was held at Goshen High School.

In 1944, the 4-H clubs split from the American Legion and holds its own fair at Rice Field in Elkhart. Rice Field was home to the fair for about 10 years.

In 1955, the present fair board association reignited, took control of the fair from the American Legion and returned to the fairgrounds. In 1956, newspapers mention dress revue for the first time.

From 1955 to 2020, things go well and the fair continues to grow. Then COVID hit and while there was no official fair, livestock shows were still held.

This year is the 150th fair, 173 years after the first fair was held. The fair board plans to commemorate the fair in a variety of ways.

So he’s looking forward to actually “seeing” the fair this year, noting he hasn’t been to a Round Robin competition since he was in 4-H.

“That will be real interesting,” he said.

He also hopes to continue having two nights of tractor pulls.

Jessop said several people asked whether he was counting down to the start of the fair.

“It started getting real at 60 days,” Jessop said.

Elkhart County 4-H Fair is right around the corner

It’s almost fair time. This year, we are celebrating 150 years of the Elkhart County 4-H Fair. We are only a week away from all the great festivities. There is a lot of work that goes on in the weeks and months leading up to 2023 Elkhart County 4-H Fair.

We encourage everyone to come enjoy the great things that are in store. There will be fun rides, great food, games, contests, etc. Come join us in the Home and Family Arts building for the 2023 open class exhibits. Here you will find the Elkhart County Extension Homemakers and other community members demonstrating various crafts. During the week, the public may see displays of quilts, photography, creative arts, handicrafts and so much more.

We also encourage you to stop by to watch the free educational health and wellness programs.

On Wednesday, July 26, the

topic will be “Wearable Technology.” During this program, you will learn about different smart watches on the market and which ones will best fit your personal needs. On Thursday, July 27, the topic is “Dangers of Beauty Products.” This program will teach you about different ingredients to avoid in beauty products as well as learn about safer alternatives.

The last educational program you don’t want to miss is “Caffeine Comparison” held Friday, July 28. People will learn about caffeine content in popular beverages and how much is too much. You can find all of these programs happening at 4 p.m. in the Home and Family Arts Building. You don’t want to miss it.

If you want to learn more about the programs or events happening in the Home and Family Arts building, call the Purdue Extension Elkhart County office at (574) 533-0554 or if you want more information about the other great events being held during the week of the Elkhart County 4-H Fair, visit 4hfair.org.

Atwood Otterbein Church offers vacation Bible school

Atwood Otterbein Church will host “Hero Hotline” vacation Bible school Monday through Friday, July 17-21, at 306 E. Main St. in Atwood.

Children will have an interactive, energizing, Bible-based experience with Pastor David Banning and his “Hero Hotline” crew as they are called together to serve God.

Vacation Bible school begins with a high-energy opening assembly, followed by a visit to the Bible Story Station. Interactive Bible lessons help “equip the he-

roes for an active life with God,” according to a news release. Students will expand on what they’ve learned by making art projects, singing new songs, exploring the wonders of nature, playing games, and enjoying tasty treats.

Area preschool through sixthgrade students are encouraged to attend.

Children may be registered by phoning the church office at (574) 858-2291 or visiting the church office, which is located across the street from the church.

2023 New Paris High School alumni banquet was the last

The New Paris High School Alumni Banquet honoring the classes of 1953 and 1958 will be the alumni association’s last all-school event. The banquet was held June 17 at Dal-Mar Banquet in Nappanee.

Hubert Schmucker, outgoing alumni president, explained the reason for ending the all-class banquet was partly due to losing four members of the planning committee and no one was

willing to volunteer.

This year’s banquet had 170 classmates attend the banquet, which Schmucker said was about 50 more than normal. He said he believed the higher number of classmates who attended was due to this year being the last for the reunion.

“All good things come to an end,” Schmucker said. “We just decided to go out on a high note rather than bleed it dry.”

Individual classes have been encouraged to meet on their

own. Schmucker said some classes are already getting together independently.

“There is still some connection among classmates in the school,” Schmucker said.

He continued saying he appreciated all the hard work the planning committee put into holding the banquet and those who attended.

The banquet has been held at Dal-Mar Banquet Hall in Nappanee for the past decade. Schmucker had high praise for the staff at the banquet hall.

Compassionate care award goes to Goshen nurse

Abigail Nehls, a registered nurse at Goshen Center for Cancer Care, received Goshen

Health’s Diseases Attacking the Immune System Award recently for the care she provided a pa-

tient undergoing chemotherapy. The award is part of an international program that honors and

Maple Leaf Farms announces promotions

Maple Leaf Farms Inc. is pleased to announce the promotion of Zach Tucker to director of sustainability and corporate social responsibility. In his new position, Tucker will guide the company’s environmental, social and governance initiatives.

Tucker joined Maple Leaf Farms in 2013 as special projects coordinator. He was subsequently promoted within the company’s live production and quality assurance departments. Most recently, he served as the

company’s HR retention and efficiency manager.

Tucker earned his undergraduate degree in animal agribusiness and a master’s degree in agricultural economics from Purdue University. He is also pursuing an MBA from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University. He currently resides in Warsaw.

Maple Leaf Farms is also pleased to announce the promotion of Hamza Rouached to director of international and

industrial sales. In his new position, Rouached will oversee duck livestock sales in targeted countries and guide their export and pet food sales efforts.

A Maple Leaf Farms employee since 2016, Rouached began his career in international and industrial marketing. During his tenure with the company, he has been instrumental in developing opportunities in India, the United Arab Emirates and throughout Asia. He is active in the USA Poultry and Egg Export Council and is currently vice chairman of their Market Advisory Panel.

Rouached earned a master’s degree in business administration from Colorado Technical University and currently resides in Leesburg.

Sleep schedule takes consistency

Many doctors recommend diverse measures to help both adults and children get the proper amount of sleep. In most cases, doctors will state that if you follow these approaches, then you are guaranteed to achieve a successful night’s sleep.

When considering sleep, we must look both internally and externally. What factors are contributing in a positive and negative way? Many of these factors include maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine before bed, making the bedroom a comfortable space to sleep, establishing a pre- and post- sleep routine, not napping too close to your bedtime, eating and drinking nutritious foods, and exercising regularly.

While these factors are just a

Kosciusko Leadership Academy has new website

Kosciusko Leadership Academy now has a new and improved website, which can be viewed at kosciuskoleadership.org.

Changes to the website include:

• Updated design.

• All alumni, searchable by name or year.

• All white papers, searchable by keyword, category or years.

• Alumni connected to their white paper, so you can click from the alumni to the white paper they were involved in.

• Updated application embedded in website; application shorter and easier to complete online.

The academy is grateful to Kevin Hamstra and his team at 1Eighty Digital and to the Kosciusko County Community Foundation for funding a grant for the project.

The KLA 2023-2024 academy year will kick off Tuesday, Aug. 29, at the Owl’s Nest banquet facility in North Webster. Those interested in applying should do

so by Tuesday, Aug. 1, through the website or by contacting KLA’s selection officer, Ben Rice, by email at ben.rice@lakecitybank.com.

The Kosciusko Leadership Academy is in its 42nd year of service to the county. KLA conducts biweekly morning sessions around the county to expose leaders to a variety of local topics and experts. The annual white-paper projects have yielded various benefits to the residents of Kosciusko County. For more information, visit kosciuskoleadership. org.

few that might be contributing to your sleep habits, they create a starting point when looking at the internal and external components that may be affecting your sleep routine.

Doctors have acknowledged most individuals find it difficult to successfully achieve all of these recommendations. However, they also value the importance of starting to implement one or a few at a time to begin building a proper sleep schedule.

They also suggest individuals identify the specific factors that could be most disruptive to their sleep and then focus on altering those behaviors and patterns to then overcome the larger factors.

If you find yourself beginning to make behavioral changes and habits to change your sleep patterns, but you are still struggling with your sleep routine, you may want to talk to a doctor or sleep specialist. You may need testing or treatment for a sleep disorder.

While this can be a daunting thought, there are guides and approaches to tackle sleep disorders. Sleep is an essential part of our human function. Don’t take for granted the effect good sleep has on your health.

celebrates the skillful, compassionate care nurses provide.

The nomination from the patient’s daughter, Katie Parmalee, read: “When my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, her nurse, Abigail, was so caring and compassionate. She could tell how scared my mother was. She took my mother’s hand and explained everything that would be happening with the chemotherapy treatments. When the time came for the first infusion, she saw how nervous my mother was. Abigail asked if she could pray with her, which meant a lot. Every time my mom had Abigail for her infusion nurse, she has been amazing, kind, caring, compassionate — the true embodiment of who a nurse should be. On my mom’s last day of chemotherapy, Abigail was sick. But she had made a video to show my mom, telling her how proud she was of her strength and that she wished her the best on her journey. I cannot thank Abigail enough for all she has done for my mother during this hard time in her life. She is an exceptional nurse.”

Nehls said she felt humbled to receive the award.

“Our patients make it easy to put your heart and soul into caring for them,” she said. “I feel fortunate to work with an outstanding team to provide excellent holistic care for our patients.”

To nominate a nurse at Goshen Health for the Daisy Award, visit goshenhealth.com/aboutus/daisy-award. The Daisy

Foundation, which promotes and distributes the awards, was established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes after he died from complications of the autoimmune disease ITP in 1999. During his hospitalization, they deeply appreciated the care and compassion shown to Barnes and his entire family. When he died, they felt compelled to say “thank you” to nurses in a very public way. To learn more, visit daisyfoundation.org.

family

OBITUARIES

Robert Lee Pickens Sr. U.S. Army Veteran

Robert Lee “Bob” Pickens Sr., 70, Warsaw, passed away Sunday, July 9, 2023, at Stillwater Hospice in Fort Wayne after a long battle with dementia.

Bob, the son of the late Elmer and Mary (Chaney) Pickens, was born Sept. 1, 1952, in Athens, Ohio. He graduated from Southern High School in Racine, Ohio, in 1971.

Bob joined the Army in 1970, alongside his best friend Charles “Chuck” Mugrage. He was in the 82nd Airborne Division from 1970-1973. He loved to talk about his days of jumping out of planes.

On Jan. 23, 1973, Bob married Rebecca (Donna) Carroll of Racine, Ohio. They moved to Etna Green in 1973. Two years later they made Warsaw their home, where they raised two children. This year marked their 50th wedding anniversary.

Bob worked at LSC for 44 years as a hoistman. He was a hardworking husband and father that would put in 12-hour shifts/seven days a week for months straight. He retired from LSC in 2017. He enjoyed manicuring his five-acre property and reading.

He is survived by his wife, Donna Pickens; a son, Robert Pickens Jr., Warsaw; a daughter, Robin Pickens, Warsaw; a sister, Nancy (Chuck) Anderson of Mason, W.Va.; two brothers, Roger (Norma) Pickens of Point Pleasant, W.Va., and James Pickens of Pomeroy, Ohio; four grandchildren, Shelby Pickens, Alec Pickens, Kiersten Gagnon and Allie Pickens; and four great-grandchildren, Bentley, Carter, Devora and Anakin.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Mickie, and two brothers, Bill and Steve.

Bob’s wish was to be donated to science. These wishes were granted by partnering with Science Care. A celebration of life will take place at a later date in Meigs County, Ohio.

Pastor James Baughman

Pastor James “Jim” Baughman, 54, Pierceton, died July 9, 2023.

He was born Dec. 11, 1968. On May 16, 1992, he married Elaine Feenstra; she survives.

Also surviving are his children, Josh Baughman, Pierceton, Christa Baughman, Columbia City, Zachariah Baughman, Claypool, and Stephanie Baughman, Pierceton; four grandchildren; his parents, John and Jean Baughman, Pierceton; and siblings, Jane Silcott, Arizona, Jeffery Baughman, California, and Jerry Baughman, Ohio.

Services were held July 15 at Pierceton Elementary School. Burial was in Hillcrest Cemtery, Pierceton. Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Warsaw was in charge of arrangements.

Gloria Joy Beuoy

Gloria Joy Beuoy, 93, Winona Lake, died at 2:55 a.m. July 8, 2023.

She was born March 29, 1930. On April 14, 1962, she married William Eugene Beuoy. He preceded her in death May 25, 2018.

She is survived by a son, James Beuoy, Akron, Ohio; daughters, K. Elaine Libey, Urbana, Ohio, Peggy Liles, Raleigh, N.C., and Melissa Warner, Warsaw; stepchildren, Rebecca Ortner,

Bettendorf, Iowa, and Jay Beuoy, Great Bend, Kan.; 14 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Visitation was held July 14 at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw.

Services were held July 15 at Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian Church. Burial was in Mount Tabor Cemetery, Muncie.

Steven Lee Brumbaugh

Steven Lee Brumbaugh, 72, Goshen, died July 11, 2023.

He was born Feb. 4, 1952. On Oct. 20, 1990, he married Lois A. Millington; she survives.

Also surviving are stepsons, Dean L. Anderson and Scott Anderson; a sister, Deanna Cochell, Louisville, Tenn.; and a brother, Gary Brumbaugh, New Paris.

Services were held July 15 at YoderCulp Funeral Home, Goshen. Burial was in Milford Cemetery.

Theldon R. Burt

Theldon R. “Ted” Burt, 87, Warsaw, died July 9, 2023.

He was born Dec. 24, 1935. In 2014, he married June Carruthers, who preceded him in death in December 2022.

He is survived by a nephew, his family, good friends and neighbors.

Services were held July 14 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Pierceton. Burial with military honors were held at Hillcrest Cemetery, Pierceton.

Chad Jason Cook

Chad Jason Cook, 49, Fort Wayne, formerly of Ligonier, died at 9:58 p.m. July 6, 2023.

He was born Oct. 31, 1973.

He is survived by his other half, Tina Lynn Cervantes; bonus daughter, Victoria Lynn Thomas; siblings, Joy Miller, Cindy Anderson and Dawn Gibson, all of Ligonier, and Shane Cook and Willy Cook, both of Fort Wayne; and several nieces and nephews. Services were held July 14 at Yeager Funeral Home, Ligonier. Burial was in Oak Park Cemetery, Ligonier.

William A. Cox

William A. Cox, 89, Mishawaka, died July 3, 2023.

He was born July 8, 1933.

He is survived by his wife, Jean; children, Shari Kidwell, Niles, Mich., Ann Prough and Debra Fried, both of Goshen, Mike Swihart, Syracuse, Sheri Howland and Shan Layne, both of Mishawaka, and Keely DaeMeulenaere, Osceola; nine grandchildren; 17 greatgrandchildren; and five great-greatgrandchildren.

According to his wishes, cremation has taken place at Yoder-Culp Crematory, Goshen. A graveside service, with military honors, was held July 17 at Oakridge Cemetery, Goshen.

Gerald S. Cummins

Gerald S. Cummins, 64, Rochester, died July 6, 2023.

He was born Oct. 3, 1958. He married Darla J. Becker, who survives.

Also surviving are his children, Nancy Hamilton, Arizona, and Christian Cummins, North Manchester; brothers, Jim Cummins, Brad Cummins, John Cummins, Bob Cummins, Chris Cummins, Clinton Cummins and Mark Cummins; two grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday, July 23, at the Fulton Community Building, 204 E. Dunn St., Fulton. Visitation time will be held from 2 p.m. until the time of service, also in the community building.

Michael Edwards

Michael Edwards, 47, Mentone, formerly of Warsaw, died July 2, 2023. The family is grieving privately. No services will be held.

Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Warsaw was in charge of arrangements.

Donald R. Elliott Jr.

Donald R. Elliott Jr., 57, Argos, died July 4, 2023.

He was born Jan. 7, 1966. On Dec. 10, 1988, he married Alane Flanagan; she survives.

Also surviving are sons, Dustin Elliott, Bourbon, and Denny Elliott, Mentone; seven grandchildren; and his father, Donald R. Elliott Sr.

A celebration of life visitation was held July 14 at Deaton-Clemens Funeral Home, Bourbon.

Caleb Michael Geyer

Caleb Michael Geyer, 25, Nappanee, died at 12:45 p.m. July 10, 2023.

He was born Feb. 7, 1998.

He is survived by a son, Emmett Geyer, and Emmett’s mother, Kristyna Thrams, Nappanee; parents, Dustin and Stephanie Geyer, Nappanee; siblings, Will and Lily Geyer, Nappanee; his maternal grandmother, Sandra Williams, Nappanee; paternal grandparents, Barry Geyer and Teri Geyer, both of Nappanee; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Services were held July 18 at Nappanee Missionary Church. Burial was in Union Center Cemetery.

Norma Jean Gillum

Norma Jean Gillum, 75, North Manchester, died July 11, 2023.

She was born May 14, 1948. She married Jimmy P. Gillum, who survives.

Also surviving are sons, Adam Gillum, Wabash, and Kirk Thomas, North Manchester; daughter, Jamie Gillum, North Manchester; brothers, Leonard Good, Carl Good and Richard Good, all of North Manchester; sister, Violet Fitzgerald, North Manchester; 10 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.

Services were held July 15 at McKee Mortuary, North Manchester. Burial was in Oaklawn Cemetery, North Manchester.

Cody Lynn Groninger

Cody Lynn Groninger, 40, New Haven, formerly of Disko, died July 10, 2023.

He was born March 7, 1983.

He is survived by his daughter, Maizie Groninger, and her mother, Jamie Rhoton; father and stepmother, Dan and Karen Groninger, Disko; sister, Cori Groninger, Warsaw; half sisters, Beth Bahney, Akron, Lia Rosas, Akron, and Jessica Bentley, Warsaw; and several nieces and nephews.

Services were held July 16 at Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron. Burial was in Akron Cemetery.

Mary Haq

Mary Haq, 69, Syracuse, died July 3, 2023.

She was born Aug. 15, 1953.

She is survived by a son, Farhan Haq, Granger; two grandchildren; siblings, Esther Raber, Ligonier, Rosanna Beachy, Millersburg, Jimmy Miller, Virginia, Pauline Martin, Syracuse, Joe Miller, Vernon Miller and Alvin Miller, all of Virginia, Eli Miller, Ohio, Johnny Miller, Fort Wayne, Bill Miller, Virginia, and Barbara Yoder, South Carolina; and several nieces and nephews.

Services were held July 11 at Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Syracuse. Burial was in Syracuse Cemetery.

Thomas Alan King

Thomas Alan King, 65, rural Wabash, died at 12:07 a.m. July 8, 2023. He was born Feb. 6, 1958. On May 10, 2001, he married Barbara Vib-

bert; she survives.

Also surviving are his children, Brook Byrd, Tom King and Denzil King, all of Warsaw; and siblings, David King, Wabash, Richard King, Decatur, Mike King, Batesville, and Linda McQuay, Bono, Ark.

Memorial services were held July 14 at Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, Wabash.

Suzanna Kurtz

Suzanna Kurtz, 95, Goshen, died July 5, 2023.

She was born July 10, 1927. On June 7, 1946, she married Delbert Eugene Kurtz, who preceded her in death. Surviving are her children, Kennlyn Robinson, Woodbury, Minn., Bruce Kurtz, Syracuse, and Debra Bailey, Azle, Texas; five grandchildren; one stepgranddaughter; 10 great-grandchildren; two stepgreat-grandsons; and half brothers, David Schrock, Indianapolis, and Bob Schrock, South Bend. Visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 9, at Greencroft Healthcare, with a reflection time at 3 p.m.

Suetta M. Martin

Suetta M. Martin, 40, Argos, died July 7, 2023.

She was born Nov. 13, 1982. She married Lawrence Martin, who survives.

Also surviving are her children, Shawn Dwayne, Krista Diane, Kaylee Danae and twins Shandon Drew and Shyla Danelle, all at home; her parents, Ammon and Edna Martin, Goshen; sisters, Vada Nolt, Elkhart, Berdena Ramer, Nappanee, her twin sister Annetta Burkholder, Rochester, and Stella Frey, New Paris; brothers, Verlin Martin, Tippecanoe, twins Galen Martin and Gerald Martin and Marcus Martin, all of Goshen; 35 nieces and nephews; and nine great-nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held July 9 and 10 at Pine Grove Mennonite School, Rochester. Services were held July 11 at Southside Wisler Mennonite Church, Rochester. Interment was in Southside Wisler Mennonite Church Cemetery. Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron, was in charge of arrangements.

Mary Beth Miner

Mary Beth Miner, 97, Etna Green, died July 6, 2023.

She was born June 1, 1926. In September 1945, she married Robert Blodgett. She later married James L. Miner on Sept. 14, 1951.

Surviving are her children, Suzannah L., Robert E., Patti R. and J. Randal; seven grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and one greatgreat-grandchild; and her two cats.

A memorial service will be held from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, July 22, at Etna Green United Methodist Church, 131 W. Broadway St., Etna Green. The time for fellowship will be from 1-3 p.m. and the last hour will be filled with memories from all who participate. Deaton-Clemens Funeral Home, Bourbon, is in charge of arrangements.

Kristi G. Peak

Kristi G. Peak, 60, Wawaka, died June 17, 2023.

She was born Jan. 10, 1963. On June 28, 1986, she married Ronald Peak.

Surviving are her children, Anthella Ebert, Marion, Ohio, Anthony Peak, Marengo, Ohio, April Chafin, Westerville, Ohio, and Ashley Peak, Wawaka; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; brothers, Ronald “Kip” Woodworth; and twin sister, Kerri Bell, Wawaka.

A celebration of life was held July 15 at Yeager Funeral Home, Ligonier.

Timothy Wayne Scott Rohm

Timothy Wayne Scott Rohm, 48, Mentone, died July 6, 2023.

He was born Oct. 8, 1974.

He is survived by his father, Kenneth Rohm, Elkhart; sister, Brittney Oswalt, Mentone; four nephews; an uncle; a cousin; and his girlfriend, Christy Evans, Etna Green.

Continued on page 13

O BITUARIES

Continued from page 12

No services will be held at this time. A private graveside service will take place in Mentone Cemetery. King Memorial Home, Mentone, was in charge of arrangements.

Vini Santucci

Vini Santucci, 51, Warsaw, died July 3, 2023.

He was born July 11, 1971.

He is survived by his parents, Al and Terry Santucci; brother, Tony Santucci; sister-in-law, Bridget; a nephew; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Services were held in Munster. Donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Brenda Kay Schenkel

Brenda Kay Schenkel, 83, Syracuse, formerly of Huntington, died

July 8, 2023.

She was born March 25, 1940. On March 8, 1975, she married Ronald Schenkel; he survives.

She is also survived by a daughter, Sloane A. Cecil, Auburn; a son, Ryan E. Schenkel, Park Ridge, Ill.; two granddaughters; and two stepgranddaughters.

Services were held July 13 at Myers Funeral Home, Huntington Chapel. Interment was at St. Peter’s First Cemetery, Huntington.

Dolores Ann Selvey

Dolores Ann Selvey, 83, Warsaw, died at 11:56 a.m. July 8, 2023.

She was born April 24, 1940.

Surviving are her children, Steve Holloway and Jason Selvey, both of Warsaw, and Vickie Bradley, Mentone; stepdaughter, Kim Bowdell, An-

C OUNTY R EPORT

Court News

Small Claims

Kosciusko County

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

Ranger Materials Corp. v. Jonathan Ensz, $3,333

Warsaw Health System LLC, d/b/a Kosciusko Community Hospital v. Teressa Helm, $2,245.82; v. Darren Miner, $7,024.71; v. Mark Shafer, $606.16

Wihebrink Landscape Management Inc. v. Richard Szwet, $5,175.52

Sarah Reimer v. Julie Larson, $1,500

Sherri Makinson v. John Mattson, $7,390; v. Haley Quimby, $3,033.71

Lake City Animal Health and Wellness v. Hector Rodriguez, $2,350.14

Hollar Dental Group v. Shanna Rogers, $1,436.17

Civil Collections

Kosciusko County

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

Orbit Leasing Inc. v. Daymond Adcock Jr., $5,574.31

Glenbrook Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Avin A. Artis, $11,982.44

U.S. Bank National Association d/b/a Elan Financial Services v. Bret

A. Bailey, $15,277.47

Credit Corp. Solutions Inc. v. Carl Coley, $1,192.27

Synchrony Bank v. Victoria Grise, $2,936.11

Discover Bank v. Sydnie D. Kolar, $14,727.73; v. Loren Pruitt, $1,537.58; v. Jeffrey Shelton Sr., $3,523.55; v. Lorene Yates, $6,962.93

HS Financial Group LLC v. Christina Sliter, $3,705.48

Monroe Restoration and Cleaning v. Steven Svara, $1,152.66

Interra Credit Union v. Jessica L. Reed, $8,616.70

Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. Wesley Martin, $1,182.58

DNF Associates LLC v. Melissa Mast, $2,204.91

Mariner Finance LLC v. Mina Phillips, $2,337.94

CommunityWide Federal Credit Union v. Shannon L. Preston, Daniel E. Schible, $7,859.11 Elkhart County

The following civil collection has been awarded in Elkhart County Superior Court III: Mariner Finance LLC v. Saris Carvajal Perez, Milford, $ 6,396.80

Evictions

The following evictions have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Mineral Springs LLC v. Laura Blair a/k/a Laura Blevins and Scott Blevins, $4,647

Center Street Apartments v. Jason

Cole, $3,240

M&Z Wealth LLC v. Matthew Fatzinger, $4,850

Scott A. Gingerich v. Amber Higginbotham, $7,875

Sherri Makinson v. Isaac Sellers, $4,236

Mortgage Foreclosures

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

Lakeview Loan Servicing LLC. v. Bayly Dobbins, Hayden Dobbins, Jaylyn Dobbins, Kara Dobbins, Payton Dobbins, unknown heirs and legatees of Jason M. Dobbins, $289,214.14

Marriage Licenses

Kosciusko County

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

Verba-Webster

Cole J. Verba, 38, Leesburg, and

derson; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Services were held July 14 at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw. Burial was in Leesburg Cemetery.

Lula F. Silveus

Lula F. “Lou” Silveus, 89, rural Mentone, died at 5:33 p.m. July 8, 2023.

He was born Sept. 6, 1933. On Feb. 8, 1957, she married Richard F. Silveus. He preceded her in death Feb. 25, 2018.

She is survived by a daughter, Mary Lou Stoffey, Minnesota; sons, James Richard Silveus, Reno, Nev., and Kenneth Lee Silveus, Pierceton; two grandchildren; a great-granddaughter; brothers, Marvin Setser, Clintwood, Va., Calvin Setser, Prestonsburg, Ky., and Jimmy Setser,

Etna Green.

Services were held July 13 at King Memorial Home, Mentone. Interment was in Palestine Cemetery.

Mary Stackhouse

Mary Stackhouse, 84, North Webster, died July 7, 2023.

She was born March 18, 1939. She married Larry Stackhouse, who preceded her in death July 27, 1963.

Surviving are daughters, Kay Gorny, West Bloomfield, and Lynn Stackhouse, North Webster; three grandchildren; and sister, Judy Lambert, Muncie.

Services were held July 13 at Elm Ridge Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Muncie. Burial followed. Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services of North Webster was in charge of arrangements.

Earl Gene Ward

Earl Gene Ward, 76, Warsaw, died July 8, 2023.

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

Brad Weaver

Brad Weaver, 47, Noble County, died July 8, 2023.

He was born May 27, 1976.

He is survived by his mother, Sharon Miller, Ligonier; his children, Karis D. Weaver, Gage Weaver, Shauna Weaver and Darin Weaver, all of Kendallville, and Myla Weaver, Millersburg; two grandchildren and one on the way; his dog; and several nieces, nephews and friends.

Services were held July 13 at Yeager Funeral Home, Ligonier. Burial was in Rose Hill Cemetery, Albion.

Jennifer Webster, 42, Leesburg Ross-Lybarger

Allan D. Ross, 60, Warsaw, and Joyce E. Lybarger, 47, Warsaw Howard-Foust

Auston M. Howard, 32, Silver Lake, and Tanny A. Foust, 43, North Manchester

Vuittonet-Osorno

Armando Vuittonet, 63, Syracuse, and Irma L. Osorno, 57, Syracuse Hobbs-Schoettmer

Kyle L. Hobbs, 35, Wabash, and Tara L. Schoettmer, 35, Claypool

Clay-Garrett

Michael T. Clay, 59, Warsaw, and Rebecca L. Garrett, 62, Warsaw Nevarez-Moyotl

Natali Nevarez, 20, Warsaw, and Jesus Moyotl, 18, Warsaw Johnson-Hurst

Russell E. Johnson, 42, North Webster, and Amber M. Hurst, 42, Milford

Rose-Hughes

Brady Lee Rose, 28, Syracuse, and Laura Marie Hughes, 30, Syracuse Himes-Annen

Stephanie N. Himes, 37, Warsaw, and Justin R. Annen, 42, Warsaw Stouder-Carl

Isaiah L. Stouder, 21, Syracuse, and Audrey Anne Carl, 20, Goshen Yoder-Slabaugh

Daryl L. Yoder, 22, Middlebury, and Kendra D. Slabaugh, 22, Milford Mast-Hochstetler

Eldon J. Mast, 27, Milford, and Linda A. Hochstetler, 23, Milford Niemoth-Rice

Melody Niemoth, 25, Winona Lake, and Tyler Rice, 30, Fort Wayne Lejune-Smith

Charlotte S. Lejune, 53, Sulphur, La., and Derek R. Smith, 53, Orange, Texas Cooper-Burton

Ashley B. Cooper, 42, North Webster, and John A. Burton, 53, North Webster Hollar-Harrington

T.L. Brandon Hollar, 44, Milford,

‘Matter of Balance’ education series being offered by Kosciusko County

Many older adults experience concerns about falling and restrict their activities. “A Matter of Balance” is an awardwinning, evidence-based fall prevention program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels.

This program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls. Participants will learn how to view falls as controllable, set goals for increasing activity, make changes to reduce fall risks at home, and exercise to increase strength

and balance.

Anyone who is concerned about falls, has fallen in the past, has restricted activities because of falling concerns, or who is interested in improving balance, flexibility and strength is encouraged to attend.

To register, contact Shannon Shepherd, Purdue Extension Kosciusko County Health and Human Science educator, by calling (574) 372-2340 or email shephe52@purdue.edu. This program is limited to 12 participants. The program will be held

at the North Webster Community Library, located at 110 E. North St., North Webster.

Classes will be held every Monday, beginning Sept. 25 and ending Nov. 13. Classes will be two hours in length and will begin at 10:30 a.m. Registration ends Sept. 4.

This program and all programs of the Purdue University Extension Service are open to everyone. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, call (574) 372-2340 by Sept. 4.

and Rhonda P. Harrington, 41, Nappanee Perales-Garcia

Janina Perales, 32, Winona Lake, and Arturo Garcia, 40, Winona Lake Bruny-Frere

Rosenel Bruny, 32, Warsaw, and Marie Marthe Petit Frere, 28, Warsaw Fry-Miller

Steven D. Fry, 25, Nappanee, and Melissa Jo Miller, 19, Nappanee

Marriage Dissolutions

Kosciusko County

The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in the Kosciusko Superior Court:

Medley — William Medley Jr., Cromwell, and Cassandra Medley, Cromwell. They were married Feb. 16, 2011, and separated two years ago. One minor child.

Poe — Justin L. Poe, Warsaw, and Jordan A. Poe, Markle. They were married July 6, 2021, and separated Jan. 9, 2023. Four minor children.

Riley — Casey Riley, Wheatfield, and Tiffany Riley, Madison, Wis. They were married Sept. 19, 2020, and separated May 1, 2023. No minor children.

B IRTHS

Graham Jackson Hoover

Michael and Jacquelyn Hoover, Syracuse, are the parents of a son, Graham Jackson, born at 6:32 a.m. June 27, 2023, at Dupont Hospital, Fort Wayne. He weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces, and was 20 inches long.

Maternal grandparents are Ronald and Patricia Payette, Goshen. Paternal grandparents are Luke and Melba Hoover, New Paris.

Graham joins seven siblings: Caroline, Gabrielle, Nathaniel, Hazel, Camille, Josephine and Nadia.

McClurg-Rhymer — Timothy J. McClurg, Warsaw, and Jessamyn Rhymer, Warsaw. They were married Aug. 1, 2021, and separated July 6, 2023. Two minor children. Lafollette — Amber Lafollette, Warsaw, and Robert Lafollette III, Milford. They were married Sept. 28, 2015, and separated Dec. 31, 2022. Four minor children.

Holland — Donald Paul Holland, Warsaw, and Terri M. Holland, Warsaw. They were married Dec. 25, 2009, and separated May 15, 2023. No minor children.

Chilafoe — Andrea Chilafoe, Warsaw, and Jason Chilafoe, Warsaw. They were married May 3, 2014; no separation date given. No minor children.

Priestley — Alexis Priestley, Warsaw, and Jalen Priestley, Warsaw. They were married May 21, 2021, and separated July 6, 2023. No minor children.

Linton — Laurie D. Linton, Pierceton, and Marc A. Linton, Pierceton. They were married May 22, 1992, and separated July 12, 2023. No minor children.

Elkhart County

The following couple have filed a marriage dissolution in the Elkhart County Circuit:

Miller — Monica Miller, Nappanee, and Merle D. Miller, Milford; with children.

Asher James Yoder James and Makayla (Miller) Yoder, Milford, are the parents of a son, Asher James, born at 10:25 p.m. July 6, 2023. He weighed 8 pounds.

Mahala Grace Hochstetler Jay and Amy (Helmuth) Hochstetler, Bremen, are the parents of a daughter, Mahala Grace, born at 7:05 p.m. July 10, 2023, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 6 pounds, 4 ounces, and was 19 1/2 inches long.

BUYER BEWARE The Papers Incorporated cannot screen all advertisements to eliminate possibilities of fraud or misleading information. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Persons responding to ads are advised to contact the Better Business Bureau in your area or the Indiana Secretary of State’s Fraud Hotline before sending any money. 1-800-223-8791

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‘second to none’ as invasive species Weed Wrangler

Tracy Gililand, of Warsaw, received the Weed Wrangler Award for northeast Indiana during the Indiana Invasive Species Conference, held June 29.

The conference, hosted by the nonprofit State of Indiana Cooperative Invasive Management, featured a multi-track lineup of presenters from various areas of conservation, including the Indiana Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Purdue University, Purdue Extension and the Natural Resource Conservation Service, among others.

Gililand was selected for the Weed Wrangler award for his commitment to controlling invasive plants in Kosciusko County.

“Tracy is an absolute machine when it comes to eliminating invasive plants,” said Dugan Julian, SICIM’s northeast regional specialist, who nominated Gililand for the award. “He’s been a member of Kosciusko Water and Woodland Invasive Partnership for years; he’s a member of the Strike Team and when there’s a Weed Wrangle, no one goes after those inva-

sives like Tracy.”

Gililand is an active member of Kosciusko Water and Woodland Invasive Partnership, which is a Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area founded in 2019. The Kosciusko invasives partnerships and other cooperative invasive species management areas around the state, work to educate communities, share resources and actively remove invasive species from the natural areas of a county.

One of the tools cooperative invasive species management areas use is the Weed Wrangle, which is a nationwide grassroots movement dedicated to eradicating invasive plants from public lands. The Kosciusko group and dozens of other management areas in Indiana lead the nation in the number of Weed Wrangle events held annually, with more than 200 events hosted in 2022.

“Volunteers, like Tracy, are the lifeblood of Weed Wrangle events,” said Julian. “I’ve been a part of over 20 Weed Wrangles and as far as individual effort goes, Tracy is second to none.”

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Goshen Hospital’s Echocardiography recognized for providing consistent, quality patient care

Since 2012, Goshen Hospital Echocardiography Department has been accredited by Intersocietal Accreditation Commission Echocardiography. While accreditations are renewed every three years, IAC Echocardiography is now recognizing hospitals reaching 10 years of continuous accreditation for their commitments to improving patient outcomes and safety in echocardiography.

Echocardiography is an ultrasound used to assess areas of the heart. It can detect heart disease or signs of serious cardiovascular conditions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women (of most racial and ethnic groups) in the United States. That’s why accurate heart screenings are so important.

“We’re proud of our colleagues’ dedication to meeting the IAC’s high standards for safe, effective and compassionate care in diagnosing heart and vascular disease,” said Randy Christophel, Goshen Health president and CEO. “Meeting the criteria to maintain accreditation consis-

tently keeps patient care at the forefront and helps us fulfill our mission of improving the health

of our community.” The IAC seal of accreditation is considered the gold standard

for the field of echocardiography, indicating high-quality patient care.

Goshen Center for Cancer Care welcomes medical oncologist

Boardcertified hematologistoncologist, Katarina Leckova, MD, has joined Goshen Center for Cancer Care.

Leckova diagnoses and treats all types of cancer. She has a special interest in

treating patients with blood diseases and cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma.

“We are pleased to expand our medical oncology team with the addition of Dr. Leckova,” said Randy Christophel, Goshen Health president and CEO. “Her interest in targeted therapies and immunotherapies helps advance our care for patients diagnosed with a wide range of cancers and benign blood disorders.”

Leckova completed fellowship training in medicine at Brookhaven National Laboratory in Upton, N.Y. She also received fellowship training in hematology oncology at Montefiore Einstein Cancer Center in Bronx, N.Y.

Leckova received a doctor of medicine from St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies. She holds a bachelor of science in biology from Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania.

Denny Lewis returns to lead NorthWood wrestling program

NorthWood High School has announced the recommendation of Denny Lewis as the new head coach for the wrestling program. With his extensive experience and dedication to education-based athletics, Lewis is poised to lead the team to new heights and foster the growth of student-athletes within the program.

Lewis brings a wealth of knowledge and a remarkable background in wrestling. Having excelled as a wrestler during his own high school years, he transitioned seamlessly into coaching, eventually serving as NorthWood’s head coach until his retirement in 2006. Since then, he has continued to contribute to the

success of the program in various assistant coaching positions across the youth, middle school and high school levels.

Director of Athletics Roman Smith expressed his enthusiasm for Lewis’s return, stating, “Coach Lewis has been a constant within NorthWood wrestling, embodying everything it means to be a head coach at NorthWood. His philosophies are centered around the student- athletes, the program’s integrity, and his love for educationbased athletics. We are excited to have Coach Lewis back on the mat, guiding our athletes to success.”

Lewis’s commitment to education-based athletics and his pro-

found understanding of the student-athlete experience make him the ideal candidate for this position. With a focus on growth and development, Lewis aims to build upon the program’s strong foundation and lead the team to compete at the highest level.

Reflecting on his return, Lewis shared his passion for wrestling and the impact it has had on his life. “I am a student of wrestling. To me, I’m going back to the classroom full go! I’m excited to do that and lead our kids and this program. Wrestling is a great sport that has shaped me as a person, and I am dedicated to positively impacting our student-athletes. I am grateful

to be back as the leader of this program. This is where I need to be.”

Lewis’s impressive track record highlights his past accomplishments, including multiple NLC team championships, team sectional championships, and numerous individual achievements, such as sectional, regional, and semistate titles. Under his previous leadership, the program saw over 30 state qualifiers in Indianapolis, including two state champions and two state runners-up.

Looking ahead, the future plans for the wrestling program are centered around nurturing the talent pipeline from the youth league, club and middle school levels. Lewis

aims to assemble a dedicated support staff of assistant coaches and instill in his team the essence of wrestling at its pinnacle, emphasizing the meaning behind having one’s hand raised in victory.

NorthWood High School is excited to welcome Coach Denny Lewis back to the helm of the wrestling program. With his expertise, passion, and commitment to studentathlete development, the school is confident that the program will thrive under his leadership. Together, they will embark on a journey to achieve greatness and inspire future generations of wrestlers.

Lewis will be recommended to the School Board on July 24, 2023.

Being certified as a Most Loved Workplace® by the Best Practice Institute feels good. Because it means our co-workers are valued, respected and supported. And provided with a sense of belonging. We’ve worked hard to make Parkview a place where our team members feel satisfied in their careers — and with a team of over 15,000 co-workers, that’s a lot of love.