the Paper - October 11, 2023

Warsaw Performing Arts Center creates

use the space whenever we need it.”

before they graduate.

Warsaw Community High School’s Performing Arts Center, or PAC, was established in 2006 with a mission: to better prepare students for the performing arts, before and after high school.

“We have a great facility,” said theater teacher and director Melany Morris. In fact, its features include seating for 974 people and an orchestra pit.

“Ours is also a fully-functioning performing arts center,” Morris continued. “So we have outside vendors come in and rent our space for community events. But the school always makes sure that students come first, so we get to

The theater department is equipped with amenities like a costume shop, and students have the chance to try their hand in any part of the work it takes to put on a good show. Beyond performances, they can get involved in technical work and even build the sets.

Along with theater, the PAC encompasses orchestra, band, choir and dance. Each of these departments has a busy season, with rehearsals multiple times a week and big public performances each fall and spring. Students also participate in other events, such as competitions. Many student performances at the PAC are free admission, with a freewill donation for the department accepted at the door.

Beginning with the Oct. 18 edition, ‘the PAPER’ will be feature a multiple page spread highlighting news from Nappanee and the entire Wa-Nee community. This specialized content will continue weekly inside each issue.

If you have story ideas, events or other news related to the Wa-Nee community that you would like to have included, email Keith Knepp at kknepp@the-papers.com, or call (574) 658-4111, ext. 2305. If you are an advertiser who would like to be included on these pages, call Susan Stump at (574) 457-3666 or Carl Lauster at (574) 269-2932.

PAC Director Kris Lake, who came to the position in August, is very enthusiastic about the program’s future. He is looking to create even more opportunities for students to engage with the performing arts in a professional capacity

“We’re in the final stages of securing an actor or actress from the Broadway production of ‘Hamilton’ to visit WCHS and work with students in a workshop atmosphere,” he said. “Many of the choir students are also involved in, or at least have an interest in, performing through music. So, our goal with this workshop is to give students the opportunity to see and hear from someone who has made their profession through this avenue. I am also in the beginning stages of creating a similar opportunity for band and orchestra students to attend a workshop with professional performance musicians from largerscale productions on Broadway, but also through some creativelydesigned partnerships with organizations, like the Fort Wayne Philharmonic.”

Another one of PAC’s current projects to foster the arts, is a fulllength, old-fashioned radio drama production of “War of the Worlds,” which will be performed by students and aired Monday, Oct. 30 on 107.3 WRSW.

Lake said the PAC has tremendous value to everyone, in school or otherwise.

“I often chat with community members about how fortunate

we are to have a facility like the PAC,” he explained. “Theatre and performing arts were a huge part of my upbringing and schooling, but my school didn’t have a performance space of any kind. ... We didn’t have a space where we felt our hard work was valued. Warsaw has that.”

Other upcoming events include the fall orchestra concert 7 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 12 and the fall play, “My Heart Says Go,” which will be at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3; 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4; and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 5. Tickets are required for the fall play. For more information and a full schedule of events, visit wchs.warsawschools.org/o/page/performing-arts-center or its Facebook page at Warsaw PAC.

K NOW Y OUR N EIGHBOR

Intern enjoys taking care of a variety of animals

“I remember adopting a bird when I was 11 years old,” stated Rin Ritter, Warsaw. “I bought a cockatiel at the pet store. Because it was gray, I decided to call my bird Smoky. I think that’s when I decided I wanted to be a veterinarian and take care of a variety of different animals.” Ritter is a senior at Wawasee High School.

Last year, Ritter took her first year of Vet Tech training at Fairfield High School. “I got to watch cats being spayed and neutered in the surgical department at the high school. We had class labs and even learned some handson training. Jill Anderson, our teacher, taught us how to pack medical kits and correctly bandage animals. We also practiced taking vital signs and restraining

the animals.”

The second year of her training includes an internship that requires 12 to 15 hours each week.

“I’m doing my internship at two places. One is Isaiah 11 Farm in Warsaw. The other is Wings of Eli, a bird rescue facility in Milford.”

At Isaiah 11, an animal rescue and counseling center in Warsaw, Ritter feeds and waters the farm animals. She also helps administer meds. “I love to cuddle and socialize the cats. I’ve had five cats of my own throughout my life and love them.”

At Wings of Eli, she has a variety of chores. “Of course, I help feed and water the birds. I love it when we can let them fly around and perch on us. I’m also involved in retraining the birds to fly. Some of our birds were injured or abused. Some have heart problems or other medical issues. I enjoy working with them, especially since I still have Smoky at home.”

To go on to become a vet tech, Ritter will need to attend college. “I can be a vet assistant in the meantime, though. I do not yet have a college in mind to attend. But I’m working on it.”

At Isaiah 11, Ritter gets a chance to work with both small animals: dogs, cats, rabbits, and large animals: horses, donkeys, goats, pigs. “That gives me a vari-

ety of training on different sized animals.”

When asked what it takes to be a good veterinarian, Ritter remarked, “Vets work with both animals and people. So, they must be a good listener to owners and able to figure out what’s wrong with an animal as they observe their symptoms.”

Right now, Ritter is working on communicating with the animals. “I remember mimicking the meows of my own cats. That’s special to them. I’m not really sure what I’m saying in cat language,” she added with a chuckle, “but they seem to understand it.”

At Wawasee her favorite class is chemistry. “I love all the science classes. I’ll need chemistry for college.”

Her hobbies include reading, drawing and playing with Smoky. She loves hanging out with friends and just talking.

She is the daughter of Rachel Marose and Dillon Ritter. She has two younger siblings Clair and David. “I live with my grandmother, Siobhan Davenport, and my great aunt, Mary Hurley.”

Her advice to those who think they want to be veterinarians: “Make sure it’s really something you want to do. Take a vet class or shadow someone. Gain some experience before going to college.”

Register for Extension Homemakers Fall Holiday Program

The Elkhart County Extension Homemakers will host “Creative Crafts and Cuisine: Homemade for the Holidays” program from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 28, in the Home and Family Arts Building, located on the Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds.

Each participant will receive a booklet with all of the craft instructions and recipes. The cost is $10 per person, payable at the door by cash or check. Checks can be made payable to Elkhart County Extension Homemakers. Homemakers will demonstrate and share various holiday crafts, such as Pringles can snowmen, decoupage coasters, coffee filter pumpkins, holiday ornaments and cards.

There will be a food segment and sampling, including make-

ahead breakfast casserole, holiday pasta, Brussels sprouts and pecan salad, butternut squash soup, hoppin’ John, and a variety of holiday desserts and snacks.

Committee members organizing the event are: Chair Sherry Weaver, Advisor Bea Blosser, Sandy Bartoe, Patty Janowski, and Deb Pepple.

Pre-registration is requested by calling Jenn at (574) 5330554, emailing fink24@purdue. edu or printing a registration form at https://bit.ly/fallprogram2023.

This program and all Purdue University programs are open to the general public. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, contact Emily Christ at (574) 533-0554 two weeks prior to the event.

Mortons receive 2023 Charles D. Smith Award

Willard ‘Bill’ Morton and his wife Victoria ‘Vicki’ Morton, Syracuse, whose involvement and compassion has left an impact on the community, were awarded the 2023 Charles D. “Charlie” Smith Award by the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana.

The award was presented Tuesday evening, Sept. 26, during the organization’s 10th anniversary celebration.

“Vicki and I are deeply honored to stand here today as recipients of the Charles D. Smith award. This recognition has a profound meaning to us as it represents the values and ideals that guide our lives,” said Bill Morton.

He continued by stating “bestowing this prestigious honor upon us, to be counted with the likes of Charlie Smith and past recipients is truly humbling. We accept this award with … responsibility and a debt of gratitude to the countless individuals and organizations who have partnered with us in Kosciusko County. Through collaboration, shared visions and dedication to community, we’ve been able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.”

Bill Morton added volunteering is not a solitary endeavor but a collective force for positive change.

He noted he became a Big Brother through the lunch buddy program, which turned into a community based match. Since his first Little has now turned 18, he has been matched with a second lunch buddy.

Vicki, who saw how much fun her husband was having with his Little, joined the program and received the same experience. She has moved on to a second lunch buddy. “Trust me, we have gotten more out of our experiences with Big Brothers Big Sisters than we could impossibly imagine. We have also learned a lot about the residents in the community and ways to help those in need.

“We would not be living in this community … if not for agencies like Cardinal Center,” stated Vicki Morton. Because of Cardinal Center, they are able to have a place for their son Andrew, who has cognitive challenges, to go during the day, which he loves. “We are able to handle CASA cases, teach Junior Achievement classes, be lunch buddies and even have a few minutes to ourselves.”

The Mortons’ dedicated the award to all those who “continue to inspire us with their unwavering commitment to make the community a better place,” stated Bill Morton. “Your dedication fuels our passion together to create a brighter future for all … We are excited to

continue our journey of service and look forward to working together to make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need.”

Some of the highlights of the impact the Mortons have made on people’s lives were noted in a 7-minute video featuring representatives of the organizations they volunteer their time. They were described as caring, generous and advocates, being all in, and champions for youth with the selfless and giving of their time and energy to help out in the community, stepping in where needed and having compassion for people in a vulnerable situation and pouring themselves into the life of children that has a ripple impact.

Some of their involvement noted include:

Vicki Morton’s commitment to offering rides to voters without transportation during past elections, ensuring every voice was heard. She is also the Kosciusko Democrat County Chair and Bill Morton is on the election board.

Their dedication to advocacy extends to the Cardinal Center with their involvement including a generous Leadership Gift enabling the center to provide meaningful work opportunities and artistic endeavors for adults with disabilities, creating a more inclusive society.

Michelle Smith, daughter of Charlie Smith, spoke about her father prior to the announcement of the award. “Those who knew my dad know he valued people, family, friends and relationships above everything else. He was generous and intentional with his time and resources and invested in the community. He had a very special way to make you feel valued and important … his gifts and strong leadership skills provided an invaluable resources … most of all his genuine down to earth nature, contagious smile brought new live to countless

organizations and individuals that he helped and he is truly missed. His dedication to family, faith and community …. set a very high standard for volunteerism.”

The Charles D. Smith Award was established in 2015 and recognizes an individual or individuals who demonstrate passionate volunteerism, strong community leadership and a lifelong commitment to serving others.

Additionally, the evening included a story from Big Couple Nick and Alyssa and their journey with their Little Christopher, a fashion show by some of the Big and Littles, and presentation of an award to Zane Hollar, 2022 Indiana State Big of the Year.

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Mitchell Elected First Vice President At AIC Conference

Kosciusko County Councilman

Sue Ann Mitchell, North Webster, was elected first vice president, for the Association of Indiana Counties at its annual conference. Over 650 county officials attended the event held Sept. 25-28 in Orange County.

Also attending, representing Kosciusko County included County Treasurer Michelle Puckett; county council members Kimberly Cates and Kathy Groninger; Human Resource Director Cathy Reed; and Assistant Director Cari Williams.

The 65th annual conference offered county officials a wide variety of professional development courses as well as opportunities to network with their peers. State officials provided updates on pertinent issues facing county governments. Continuing Education Awards through the AIC Institute for Ex-

cellence were earned by Puckett; Groninger, Cates and Helser.

The AIC’s annual conference is the largest gathering of county officials in the state. Representatives from public agencies, private entities and local elected officials addressed issues such as public access laws, budgeting best practices, technology, human resources challenges, road funding, public and mental health, regional tourism and natural resource matters.

AIC’s members also discussed the 2024 legislative platform covering key issues facing counties such as local taxation, criminal justice, public safety, the environment and economic development.

Breakout sessions were held with each affiliate group. The Indiana County Councils Association had 100 council members in attendance. Discussions were held

on budget challenges, 2024 ICCA legislative goals, opioid funding, establishing district leaders, IT technology briefing and review of local income tax changes.

In addition to Mitchell, other officers elected during the annual conference were Nancy Marsh, Hendricks County auditor, being elected president of the AIC board of directors. Mitchell was elected first vice president and Barb Hackman, Bartholomew County treasurer, was elected second vice president. Mike LePay, Lake County commissioner, was elected secretary and Paul Sinders, Clay County commissioner, was elected treasurer. Their terms will start Nov. 1.

The AIC Inc. is a nonprofit organization established in 1957 for the betterment of county government. The various functions of the AIC include lobbying the Indiana General Assembly on behalf of counties, serving as liaison among counties, state and federal agencies as well as providing technical assistance and training to county officials and employees.

Mr. and Mrs. Sam Lundy celebrate 60th wedding anniversary

Sam and Mary Jo (Firestone) Lundy, North Webster, are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary. They were married Oct. 26, 1963, at Syracuse Church of God by Rev. James McKibben.

The couple has four children: Kim (Dave) Margolius, Pensacola, Fla.; Kelly (Rob) Puma, Westfield; Kevin (Angela) Lundy, Warsaw; and Kyle (Elisa) Lundy, Grand Rapids, Mich. They also have 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Sam was a 1961 graduate of North Webster High School. Before retiring, he worked in maintenance at Tippecanoe Country Club Pro Shop and Camp Crosley YMCA, store manager at Ace Hardware North Webster and Syracuse, and

owner of Lawn/Landscaping/Security Service company. He was also a bus driver for over 25 years for the Wawasee Community School Corporation.

Mary Jo was a 1963 graduate of Syracuse High School. She taught piano lessons in their home for over 30 years, while raising their children. Before retiring, she worked as the secretary for the town of North Webster Clerk’s Office and Police Department and previously at Badskey Realty. She was also a bus driver for over 20 years for Wawasee Community School Corporation.

Join their family in celebrating by sending an anniversary card to:

6981 E. May Lane, Leesburg, IN 46538.

‘Night at the Museum’ returns to Nappanee Center

Nappanee History comes to life when the lights go out. From 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14, the Nappanee Public Library and the Evelyn Lehman Culp Heritage Collection will present the 12th annual Night at the Museum: Architecture in Nappanee. This production is a lights-out, after hours tour of the Heritage Collection at the Nappanee Center, 302 W Market St. Nappanee.

During the tour, guides will take you on an interactive flashlight adventure through the museum, with live actors portraying the parts of Nappanee citizens. Participants will

learn more about Nappanee and the architect who designed the majority of the downtown. The script for Architecture in Nappanee, written by Martha Owen, Heritage Collection manager at Nappanee Public Library, was based on the life of Henry Frazier, a local Nappanee Architect from the late 1800s.

Don’t wait in line! Reserve you time online at nappaneelibrary. org, or call or visit the library from Oct. 10-14 to reserve your tour time and receive a fast pass. The library is located at 157 N. Main St., Nappanee, and can be reached at (574) 773-7919.

Elkhart Extension to offer mindful eating program

Mindful eating involves paying close attention to food choices and hunger cues. It’s important to understand how food makes you feel physically, mentally and emotionally. Learn about the benefits of mindful eating and ways to practice this healthy-eating concept.

Join Elkhart Extension office 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 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19, in person at the Purdue Extension Elkhart County office.

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

This program and all programs of the Purdue University Extension are open to everyone. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, call Emily Christ at (574) 533-0554 two weeks prior to the program.

How a housing counselor can help prepare you for homeownership

(StatePoint) Buying a home can be intimidating, whether this is your first time or you’ve been around the real estate block before. The good news? You don’t have to go it alone. If you’re looking for a trusted partner throughout the process, working with a housing counselor can help prepare you for homeownership.

If you’re not sure what a housing counselor does or whether this service is right for you, consider these insights from Freddie Mac:

What is a Housing Counselor? Housing counselors are trained, independent professionals who are available to offer advice, listen and help you make informed decisions based on your financial situation and needs — often at little or no cost. Their job is to help you navigate the homebuy-

ing journey and ensure you’re financially prepared for long-term, successful homeownership.

What Services Do They Provide? One of the primary roles of a housing counselor is to prepare you for homeownership through workshops and one-on-one counseling. The counselor will start by asking you questions about your income, credit and savings to help determine if you’re ready to buy and how much you plan on spending. Similar to a conversation with a potential lender, the more organized and prepared you are, the more productive your conversation will be. Once they understand your current financial situation, they will:

• Provide guidance on down payment options and local down payment assistance programs.

• Help you understand the fea-

tures and costs associated with the various types of mortgages available.

• Teach you important financial skills, such as planning your budget and building, maintaining and improving your credit.

• Advise you on the role of your real estate agent and lender.

It’s important to know that housing counselors can be there for you beyond the homebuying process. For example, if you are facing financial difficulties and struggling to pay your mortgage down the line, a housing counselor can offer financial guidance and work with your lender to help you avoid foreclosure.

How Do You Find a Housing Counselor? Although finding a housing counselor can be as simple as running a search online or calling a hotline, it’s important

to carefully consider your options. Unfortunately, scam artists abound, preying on home buyers and struggling homeowners alike. Here are three ways to find a legitimate housing counselor:

• Reach out to a HUD-certified housing counselor at one of Freddie Mac’s Borrower Help Centers or Borrower Help Network for free assistance.

• Search for a HUD-certified housing counselor in your area on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s website.

• Call the national HOPE hotline at 888-995-HOPE or visit its website at 995HOPE.org. This hotline is free and available 24 hours a day.

For more information about preparing for and sustaining long-term homeownership, visit My Home by Freddie Mac.

Buying a home is one of the largest financial decisions you can make. Having a trusted expert in your corner means you don’t have to go it alone.

Welcome home –Unexpectedly useful gifts for housewarmings

(StatePoint) Attending a housewarming is a great way to celebrate a friend’s new home, but how do you find the perfect present to accompany the visit? These unique gift ideas are not only bound to make a statement, they’re incredibly useful to boot.

Fix-It Essentials: For practicality at its absolute best, pack up some must-haves for the house. Include a hammer, screwdrivers and some Original Duck Tape brand duct tape to help your friends get all those initial DIY projects handled – and cover bases for any future projects and everyday fixes that may pop up.

Plant Some Love: Flowers are always a great way to brighten a day, but why not offer something that can brighten a space for years to come and grow with the household? Bring over a gorgeous houseplant or orchid for a gift that lasts and makes your friends think of you every time they see it. Tie on a sweet note and a ribbon for a fun, personal touch.

Organization Must-Haves: Create a welcome home gift that will prove useful for years to come. Put together a basket that includes all those essentials we sometimes forget, like highquality hangers, drawer organizers, rubber bands and paper clips for paperwork. Include additional essentials, such as Duck Max Strength Nano-Grab Gel Tape for securing miscellaneous items, photos and temporary seasonal décor, along with EasyLiner Brand Shelf Liner with Clorox for upgraded home organization. Stock the Bar: Wine is fine, but why not equip your friends with what they need to entertain in the future? Bring over a favorite spirit, mixer and cocktail recipe book to keep the party going. Round out this gift with a cute set of rocks glasses or drink shaker.

Eliminate water waste and get hot water on demand with new home improvement system

(BPT) - What happens when you turn on the shower? In the typical North American home, cold water comes pouring out. Because this is a shock to the body, most people make it a habit to run the shower for a few minutes before getting in.

Meanwhile, you might do something else as the water warms. In fact, there are probably times you have gotten distracted and forgotten about your shower. Whether it’s for a few minutes or much longer, this is a lot of potable water just running down the drain.

Fortunately, there is a growing home improvement trend that eliminates this problem: hot water recirculation using tankless water heater systems. The NRCR Residential Condensing Tankless Water Heater from Noritz uses a built-in pump to keep hot water close to even the farthest outlet in the home, minimizing the wait and, therefore, the waste of unused potable water down the drain.

Why Does It Take So Long To Get Hot Water?

A typical American home wastes thousands of gallons of perfectly usable water down the

drain annually due to lengthy wait times at hot-water outlets in the bath and kitchen. This experience is common when showering and bathing as well as when you turn on faucets.

This happens because when you use warm water, the remaining water in the pipes does not return to the water heater for reheating. Instead, it stays in the pipes and eventually turns cold. This chilly water needs to be pushed out and is what you feel before new hot water from the water heater is delivered when you turn the knob.

Why Doesn’t This Happen At Hotels?

This same experience doesn’t typically happen in hotels, where you enjoy hot water near instantaneously. That’s because commercial properties like hotels know that many people want to use hot water at similar times and expect this convenience, so they have a special pump constantly run with a dedicated circulation line of water connected to each room. That puts hot water right where it’s needed at all times. Also, in a hotel, the distance between the fur-

thest shower and the hot-water source is so great, the wait and the consequent waste and cost would be enormous.

So what’s the solution for residential properties? More homeowners desire this convenience and are installing a hot-water recirculation system, which allows you to enjoy the convenience of hot water on demand while also reducing your water footprint, helping save money on utility bills.

The Many Benefits Of Hot Water Recirculation

Today’s homeowner often has a high desire for comfort while being mindful of the environment,

which makes it no surprise that hot-water recirculation is a growing home improvement trend.

Whether you want to replace your entire water heating system with a modern tankless option or add a crossover valve that retrofits to your existing system, Noritz’s new NRCR tankless solution offers several options for different plumbing configurations. As a result, hot water is always available in whatever part of the house you need it.

Some homes have a pre-built pipe loop that is ready to add a pump to work in conjunction with your water heater. If your home doesn’t have this dedicated return line, you can install a crossover valve at the furthest fixture of your home and take advantage of the NRCR crossover mode.

Alternatively, homeowners who decide to replace their systems with tankless options will enjoy even more convenience and benefits. With tankless systems like the NRCR, the hot-water circulation pump is fully integrated into the tankless water heater. This technology operates only when there is demand to bring hot wa-

ter to you, which saves even more energy.

What’s more, these systems are more affordable than ever. Federal tax credits combined with possible rebates from local or state governments can drive the price down significantly.

Smart Technology For A Smart Home

In addition to providing ondemand hot water and reducing water waste, the NRCR technology learns how and when you use hot water. The new learning mode records habits over time based on your daily use and will turn on the recirculation pump only when you need it, meaning your system is efficient as well as convenient. You can also set your own schedule to your lifestyle needs if you choose.

If you’re done with the unpleasant stream of cold water every time you want to shower, consider tankless hot-water recirculation systems that also reduce water waste. With a 15-year warranty and a money-saving Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) of 0.97, you’ll feel confident about investing in your home. Learn more at www. noritz.com/nrcr.

Carpet helps you create a healthy, stylish and comfortable home

(BPT) - Being at home more often has inspired many people to make changes in their favor-

ite spaces that focus on health and comfort. You might be surprised to learn that carpeting a

room supports both these goals, plus offers near endless style possibilities.

Carpet is a popular flooring option, accounting for 48% of the total U.S. flooring market, according to the Carpet and Rug Institute. Adding carpet or refreshing the carpet you already have in your home has many benefits, from helping you breathe easier to keeping loved ones safe. Here are the top reasons people are opting for carpet:

Health And Indoor Air Quality

Carpet can help support a healthy home, even for people with asthma and allergies. The updated asthma management guidelines from the National Institutes of Health’s National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute do not include recommendations to remove carpet as a way to treat asthma and allergies.

“Scientific research shows that carpet does not negatively

impact allergies or asthma. In fact, carpet can improve your home’s air quality by trapping allergens, keeping them out of the breathing zone and making them easy to vacuum,” said Dr. Michael Halwig, allergy specialist on the clinical faculty of Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia.

“All too often patients have been advised to remove carpeting in the home to deal with environmental allergies. This is often expensive and impractical for many families. Current knowledge shows that the use of vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters and other environmental control measures are much more effective in reducing allergens in the home.”

Many people are installing additional carpet in their homes to help improve air quality. Fortunately, the vast majority of carpet sold in the U.S. is certified through CRI’s Green Label Plus program, a third-party certification that demonstrates products are among the lowest emission emitting carpet, adhesive and cushion products on

the market.

Safety And Noise Reduction

With people spending more time at home, indoor noise pollution is becoming a big problem. Carpet and carpet pads help absorb excessive sounds to soften noises within a room while serving as a sound barrier between floors. This is especially important in rooms with large TVs, sound systems or speaker phones, as well as in hallways and on stairs to soften foot traffic. Whether you’re working, studying or relaxing, carpet reduces noise so you can focus.

Carpet is also a safe choice, particularly in multigenerational homes. In addition to added comfort in cushioning footsteps, carpet can help reduce slips and falls that may occur more easily on hard surface flooring. Carpet is safe for the whole family, but especially for toddlers and older individuals who are more prone to falls. If a fall does happen, carpet can help minimize injury.

Fashion And Functionality

Carpet can serve as a neutral foundation, in popular tones of gray, cream or beige, or it can be a focal point featuring vibrant colors and bold patterns. With thousands of carpet styles, colors, textures and designs, you can select an option that suits your personal taste and complements your home’s aesthetic.

Beyond beauty, carpet provides a great place to sit and is comfortable underfoot. Because carpet provides thermal insulation, it helps maintain a room’s optimum temperature; for example, in cooler months it retains warm air for longer. It feels good and looks good, helping create an inviting feeling in any room.

“With two toddlers, a dog and two cats, carpet was a musthave throughout our home. Carpet provides comfort, warmth, and style - and we also love that it improves indoor air quality,” said Chelsee Hood, mother and blogger. “Many families are choosing to install carpet for these reasons and more, making it a great feature in the modern home.”

National study shows what homeowners really want from their roofs

(StatePoint) Replacing your roof? Insights from a new nationwide survey may help you better understand the many facets involved in this important decision.

The “2021 Roof Purchasing Study” conducted by Signet Research Inc. for DaVinci Roofscapes, shows that consumers want durable roofs. Nearly 85% of those surveyed indicate that durability has a lot of influence in the type of roof they would purchase. Longevity of a roofing product was the second highest influencer, followed by resistance to severe weather.

Mother Nature Match-Up

Study results indicate that severe weather damage is the most likely event to prompt homeowners to replace their current roofs, followed by age of their existing roof. When it does become necessary to replace the roof, 32% of respondents indicate they are “very likely” or “likely” to consider a faux roofing product, such as composite slate or shake materials, which typically stands up to severe weather and is known for its longevity.

“Mother Nature pounds roofs on a regular basis,” says Mark Pagel, general manager of DaVinci Roofscapes. “Homeowners recognize that hail, high winds and severe weather can take their toll on roofs. They’re reacting by seeking out roofing materials that will stand up to strong weather conditions. While price is an important consideration, respondents of the survey are focused more on value. They’re interested in investing in durable roofing materials, like synthetic slate and shake tiles, which are guaranteed to hold up to severe weather conditions.”

Contractors Are Influential

When it comes time to select a specific roofing brand, 61% of homeowners are looking for a quality product. To find that roofing brand, 57% are relying on their contractor for recommendations, which is more than they do on family and friends (35%), or even their own personal experiences with a brand (37%).

“Homeowners understand they may choose a new roof only once or twice in their lives,” says Pagel. “They also understand that contractors make these decisions many times a year for their projects. The research indicates homeowners respect and value the recommendation of contractors who work regularly with different building products.”

10-Year Comparison

A national survey sponsored by DaVinci Roofscapes in 2011 provides insights into changes in consumer attitudes toward their homes in the span of the last decade. In a comparison of the 2011 Color Study (conducted by Harris Research) and the 2021 Roof Purchasing Study, results show:

• A strong growth in homeowners valuing the curb appeal of their personal properties in the past decade (78% viewing

it as “extremely” or “very important” in 2011 as compared to 88% with similar feelings in 2021).

• An increase in homeowners seeing their home exterior as a reflection of their personality (71% in 2011; 85% in 2021).

• While durability remains the biggest influencer of a roofing purchase, the second-most popular influencer has changed dramatically. In 2011, longevity was the second response. In 2021, that has changed to pricing, up from the number eight position 10 years ago.

• Severe weather damage remains the number one reason for replacing a roof. However, is 2011, 65% said severe weather would prompt a new roof purchase (with 9% reporting current roof damage from a weather-related event), compared to 57% in 2021 (with 32% reporting a currently damaged roof from severe weather).

• While 23% of homeowners reported replacing their roof due to old age in 2011, 44% (almost double) said old age was the reason to replace a roof in the 2021 study.

• Color preference has remained consistent. Black is still the most popular roof color, followed by

gray, brown and beige/tan.

For more roofing insights, visit davinciroofscapes.com.

Bottom line? A new roof can be a good, solid investment, especially when your roof is able to withstand the elements over the years and look great while doing it.

APC approves two plats, three rezonings

Kosciusko County Area Plan Commission approved a final plat, a preliminary plat and three rezonings at its meeting Wednesday, Oct. 4.

Michael Long’s petition to rezone ground from an agricultural district to an agricultural II district was approved.

The property is located on the east side of CR 800 West, north of Hoffman Lake, Warsaw, in Prairie Township.

Long wants to rezone 4.5 to 5 acres for a one-lot subdivision. Long, a farmer, requested only a portion of the 51-acre property, most of which is farmland, to be rezoned in order for one house to be built.

Long, who serves on APC board, refrained from voting.

Long’s case will now go before the county commissioners at 9:15 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 24.

Larry Hochstetler’s petition to rezone 8.23 acres from a commer-

cial district to an agricultural district was also approved.

The property is located on the west side of SR 19, south of CR 75 North in Etna Green in Harrison Township.

Hochstetler wants to build a single-family house. He also petitioned for an exception for a variance with the BZA. That case will be heard next week, Tuesday, Oct. 10.

Hochstetler’s case will also go before the county commissioners at 9:15 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 24.

Eric and Cara Erlenwein’s petition to rezone 20.33 acres from an agricultural district to an agricultural II district was tabled.

The couple wants to rezone the property in order to have a one-lot or two-lot subdivision.

The property is located on the north side of CR 900 North, east of SR 13 in Syracuse in Turkey Creek Township.

A couple of remonstrators had some concerns, which were addressed, about the usage of the property and runoff.

Until the technical issues are worked out, and a legal description of the property is obtained, the case has been continued for a later date.

The board approved South Shore Green Homeowners Association’s petition for preliminary plat approval for a residential development on a 1.927 acre tract of ground in Syracuse.

The property is located on the south side of CR 1120 North, west of Putter Place in Syracuse in Turkey Creek Township.

A final plat for Emerald Pointe, near Irish Lake on McKenna Road in Warsaw, was approved. The plat has four lots.

A Leesburg property on SR 15 is being eyed for a potential new business, a butcher shop or a slaughter house. The board was told it is a mixed use property and is zoned industrial II. The case will now go before the Board of Zoning Appeals.

An amendment to a cargo container ordinance was discussed but no decision was made. Due to

numerous violations in the county, a revised ordinance was drafted by assistant planner Andy Heltzel, which the board reviewed. Despite these violations, which the county enforces, the board decided it mer-

its more discussion in the future.

“This is a trend. We don’t want these violations,” said Matt Sandy, APC director.

The next meeting is at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1.

DNR adds new public prairie land, wetland in Noble County

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has added 158 acres of upland prairie and wetland to Mallard Roost Wetland Conservation Area in Noble County, which conserves prime wildlife habitat and will provide an excellent place for fishing and hunting.

“By protecting a larger scope of grassland, forest and wetland habitat at Mallard Roost, Indiana’s gaining an incredible asset for both wildlife and outdoor recreation,” said DNR Director Dan Bortner. “We are thankful for all partners who have helped us put this area into the public trust and protect its natural and recreational resources now and for future generations.”

The new property, which will be called the Buchanan Unit of Mallard Roost Wetland Conservation Area, was acquired through a partnership between the DNR and Indiana Natural Resources Foundation. Generous support from donors through northeast Indiana Partnerships and Preservation provided the largest share of private contributions, with additional financial support provided by the National Wild Turkey Federation.

“It has been a privilege to be part of the effort to provide public lands in northeast Indiana,” said Tom Kelley of Northeast Indiana Partnerships and Preservation. “When groups come together with a common goal, it is exciting to see what comes from it. We are proud of what this property will be able to provide for conservation and the community.”

This purchase was also made

possible with funding from the Next Level Conservation Trust, a $25 million program. It funds the acquisition of land that preserves and protects important conservation, recreation and historic areas throughout Indiana. The NLCT is funded through the federal American Rescue Plan dollars appropriated by the general assembly, and it represents the largest single infusion of dollars into conservation in Indiana history.

DNR has led important work to restore upland bird habitat on the Buchanan Unit, which provides a home for quail, turkey, pheasants and other birds. Support for this work has been provided by the National Wild Turkey Federation, the Northeast and Eel River chapters of Pheasants Forever and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Tri-County Fish and Wildlife Area, which manages Mallard Roost Wetland Conservation Area, will continue working to improve the habitat at the Buchanan Unit and will build a parking area, with plans to open the Buchanan Unit to the public in spring 2024.

The addition of the Buchanan Unit demonstrates how the INRF can help acquire critical lands for conservation and public trust for the DNR in places where such opportunities might otherwise be missed.

“Growing public lands is important for wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation opportunities and more,” said Jody Kress, INRF executive director. “Serving as a mechanism that helps Indiana permanently protect its natural spaces is exactly why our foundation was created.”

Red Cross issues call to action: Blood donors needed now

Blood supplies are at a critical low, and it takes several weeks to rebuild sufficient quantities.

On Sept. 11, the American Red Cross declared a national blood shortage and has said that over the next month, an additional 10,000 units of blood products need to be collected each week to ensure that there are sufficient levels to meet hospital and patient requirements.

Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. When there are incidents with many victims, the usage of blood products increases.

Blood cannot be duplicated in a factory. It must come from human donors. All types of blood are in constant need.

The American Red Cross has several blood drives scheduled each month in Kosciusko County to help fill the goals, but it takes the commitment of donors to make the blood drives successful.

To make it easier to set an ap-

pointment, the Red Cross has established a free blood donor app for smartphones. The app will also help find nearby blood drives, get some of the paperwork completed with RapidPass and much more. Online, blood drive information is available at redcross.org/giveblood.html.

Upcoming October American Red Cross blood drives in Kosciusko County are:

• From noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 11, at the firemen’s building, 1013 E. Arthur St., Warsaw.

• From 1-6 p.m., Monday, Oct. 16, at Grace College Gordon Recreation Center, 100 Publishers Drive, Winona Lake.

• From 1-6 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 17, at North Webster Church of God, 302 N. Main St., North Webster.

• Noon to 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 26, at the firemen’s building, 1013 E. Arthur St., Warsaw.

A single donation can save as many as three lives.

Parkinson’s Support Group to meet Oct. 13

Parkinson’s Support Group of Warsaw will meet from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13, at the administrative classroom of Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital, 2101 E. DuBois Drive, Warsaw.

“Let’s Talk Speech Therapy,” with Mary Jane Lyga, P.T., will provide general tips to improve speech and ways to work in practice during day-to-day activities. She will introduce exercises to help improve and maintain speaking ability and touch on compensatory means of communication.

Lyga is a physical therapist and has practiced for 30 years in pediatrics, out-patient, SNF and home-health settings. She has been in Warsaw for 17 years and working as regional manager for Theracare since 2014.

Attendees have an opportunity to learn more from professionals and specialists in the community, along with receiving answers to questions, sharing experiences and encouraging one another.

Open to all members of the community, the support group meets the second Friday of each month (except December) from 6:30 to

O BITUARIES

Kristina M. Baldridge

Kristina Marie Baldridge, 38, died Sept. 22, 2023.

She was born Aug. 19, 1984.

Surviving are her parents, Ronnie and Sandra Baldridge and Janet Green; her children, Benjamin Galindo, Ethel Baldridge and Dolores Castro; her brother and best friend, Garrett Baldridge, and siblings, Gabrielle and Joshua Flannery; and nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life was held Oct. 7 at Harvest Community Church, Pierceton. McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Melissa A. Baldwin

Melissa A. Baldwin, 44, Cromwell, died Oct. 3, 2023.

Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse.

Betty Jane Campbell

Betty Jane Campbell, 76, died Sept. 24, 2023.

She was born Nov. 18, 1946.

She is survived by a son, Rick Cambpell, Elkhart; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; siblings, Sue Smith, Lake Wales, Fla., and Doug Craddock, Warsaw; two nieces; and two nephews.

Services were held Oct. 7 at Warsaw Community Church. Burial was in Palestine Cemetery, Mentone. McHattonSadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

James Creps

James “Jim” Creps, 77, Ligonier, died Sept. 10, 2023.

The family hosted a celebration Oct. 8 at The Woods Too, Hudson. Yeager Funeral Home, Ligonier, was in charge of arrangements.

Delores Elaine Dady

Delores “Dee” Elaine (Wolcott) Dady, 89, Warsaw, formerly of Plymouth, died at 9:45 p.m. Sept. 28, 2023.

She was born Dec. 7, 1933.

Surviving are her children, David Dady Jr., Argos, Sharon Tusing, Middlebury, James Dady, Lansing, Mich., Robert Dady, Jackson, Mich., and Sue Siegel, Plymouth; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and family friend, Stephen Waldeck, Warsaw.

No services are currently scheduled. Earl-Grossman Funeral Home, Argos, was in charge of arrangements.

Betty A. Eckert

Betty A. Eckert, 93, rural Claypool, died at 5:36 p.m. Oct. 1, 2023.

She was born June 8, 1930. On Nov. 4, 1950, she married Merl “Bud” H. Eckert. He preceded her in death Nov. 10, 1995.

She is survived by a daughter, Tina Cook, Warsaw; son, Michael Eckert, Claypool; several grandchildren, greatgrandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; sister, Barbara Ginter, Hobart; and her dog, Benji.

A private funeral service was held Oct. 4 at King Memorial Home, Mentone. Interment was in Harrison Center Cemetery, Etna Green.

Rhidley D. Edel

Rhidley D. Edel, 70, Bremen, died at 6:40 a.m. Sept. 30, 2023.

He was born Jan. 17, 1953.

He is survived by his wife, Sandy Edel; sons, Housie Edel, Bremen, and Casey Edel, South Bend; daughter, Gina Matthews, Bremen; two granddaughters and one on the way; six stepgrandchildren; a brother, Paul Edel, Bourbon; and sisters-in-law, Ellie Hardy, Misha-

waka, and Gail Hardy, Bremen. Cremation has taken place and no services are planned.

Terri Furnivall

Terri Furnivall, 75, Tippecanoe, died at 12:44 a.m. Sept. 28, 2023. She was born March 11, 1948. On Jan. 22, 1966, she married Delon Furnivall; he survives.

She is also survived by a daughter, Sherri Cameron, Arizona; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Good Family Funeral Home, Rochester, was in charge of arrangements.

Ellamae Haessig

Ellamae Haessig, 80, Syracuse, died Sept. 29, 2023.

She was born March 13, 1943. On Aug. 21, 1965, she married Roger G. Haessig. He preceded her in death Aug. 7, 2014.

Surviving are sons, David M. Haessig, Milford, and Daryl L. Haessig, Syracuse; daughter, Karen Thomas, South Bend; brother, David Speakman, Syracuse; sister, Mary Sutherland, Willmore, Ky.; sisters-in-law, Joyce Speakman, Decatur, and Judy Speakman, Warren; and nine grandchildren.

Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 13, at Mt. Hope Church of the Nazarene, Berne. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Berne. Family and friends will be received from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 12, and one hour prior to to services Friday at the church. Zwick and Jahn Funeral Homes of Decatur is in charge of arrangements.

Janine A. Hunter

Janine A. Hunter, 74, Warsaw, died Sept. 29, 2023.

She was born June 18, 1949.

Surviving are her children, Randy Barber, North Manchester, and Leslie Jackson, Syracuse; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and siblings, Joyce Burnett, Rodney Hunter and Pam Koehlinger.

A memorial service was held Oct. 7 at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.

Arlene Louise Kissinger

Arlene Louise Kissinger, 84, North Manchester, died Sept. 30, 2023.

She was born Nov. 3, 1938. On Nov. 2, 1957, she married William Douglas Kissinger; he survives.

Also surviving are sons, William A. Kissinger, Boise, Idaho, and John E. Kissinger, Fowlerville, Mich.; daughter, Cheryl L. McCoy, Huntington; six grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren with one on the way.

Services were held Oct. 4 at McKee Mortuary, North Manchester. Burial was in South Whitley Cemetery.

Neil Manwaring

Neil “Sam” Manwaring, 53, Warsaw, died Sept. 30, 2023.

He was born Nov. 6, 1969. On June 2, 2023, he married Kimberly Poe; she survives.

Also surviving are his children, Anna and Zane Manwaring, South Carolina; and sisters, Jennifer Manwaring and Julie Reed, both of Warsaw.

The family will be grieving privately. No services will be held. Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw was in charge of arrangements.

Martha Ann Metzger

Martha Ann Metzger, 73, Wakarusa, died Oct. 5, 2023.

She was born Feb. 10, 1950. On Aug. 3, 1968, she married Glen F. Metzger; he survives.

Also surviving are sons, Bradley Metzger, Nappanee, Robert Metzger, Wakarusa, and John Metzger, North Manchester; daughters, Emily Cook, Missouri, and Amanda Selby, California; 33 grandchildren; sisters, Darlene Murphy, Nancy Puckett and Marianne Riley; brother, David Miller; and brothers- and sisters-in-law, Olive Stull, Eldo Brovont, Carol and Herman Royer, Ruth Wrightsman and Bonnie Blocher. Services were held Oct. 9 at Old German Baptist Brethren Church, Goshen. Burial was in the church cemetery. Rieth Rohrer Ehret Lienhart Funeral Home, Wakarusa, was in charge of arrangements.

Melvin Jay Miller

Melvin Jay Miller, 89, Goshen, died Oct. 1, 2023.

He was born Oct. 4, 1933. On Sept. 1, 1956, he married Iva Schmucker; she survives.

Also surviving are daughters, Loretta Sumpter and Cheryl Sorensen, both of Milford, and Kathy Shearer, Goshen; 11 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; a sister, Polly J. Miller, Middlebury; and brother, Alvin J. Miller, Elkhart.

Friends may call from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 12, at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen. There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the 10 a.m. funeral service Friday, Oct. 13, at First Baptist Church, 1011 S. Indiana Ave., Goshen. Burial will follow in Thomas Cemetery, Goshen.

Yvonne Murphy

Yvonne Murphy, 85, Goshen, formerly of Nappanee, died at 5:30 a.m. Oct. 4, 2023.

She was born Jan. 29, 1938. On Dec. 23, 1959, she married Norman Murphy. He preceded her in death Aug. 16, 2013.

Surviving are her children, Cynthia Murphy, Goshen, Shannon Murphy and Stanley Murphy, both of Nappanee, and Kevin Murphy, Mishawaka; seven grandchildren with one on the way; and six greatgrandchildren.

Services were held Oct. 7 at Nappanee United Methodist Church. Burial was in Union Center Cemetery.

Lydia Faith Schwartz

Lydia Faith Schwartz, infant daughter of Steven and Carolyn (Schwartz) Schwartz, was stillborn Oct. 3, 2023.

Surviving in addition to her parents are brothers, Matthew James Schwartz, Christopher Jon Schwartz and Edwin Lee Schwartz, all at home; paternal grandparents, Victor and Ruth Ann (Schwartz) Schwartz, Etna Green; maternal grandparents, Arden and Irma (Hochstetler) Schwartz, Etna Green; eight cousins; 19 aunts and uncles; paternal great-grandparents, Melvin and Rebecca Schwartz, Geneva, and Kathryn Schwartz, Etna Green; and maternal great-grandparents, Lamar and Elizabeth Hochstetler, Nappanee, and Clara Schwartz, Etna Green.

Services were held Oct. 4 at the Olen Miller residence. Burial was in Graber Cemetery.

Franklin L. Sherrod

Franklin Lamar “Feelow” Sherrod, 40, Warsaw, died Oct. 1, 2023.

He was born June 17, 1983.

He is survived by his wife, Lori Lupica, Warsaw; Lori’s children, Whittney Taylor and Draven Lupica; siblings, Pam Sherrod, Crest Hill, Ill., Steven Sherrod, Chicago, Ill., Kizzie Sherrod, Indianapolis, John Sherrod and Inell Sherrod, both of Elkhart; three aunts; and a host of nieces, nephews, greatnieces, great-nephews and cousins.

A life celebration was held Oct. 6 at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw. Interment was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.

Richard L. Stengel Sr.

Richard “Bull” L. Stengel Sr., 69, Warsaw, died Sept. 24, 2023.

He was born May 29, 1954. On April 11, 1975, he married Arletta Jean Darnell. She preceded him in death June 4, 2013.

He is survived by a son, Richard Stengel Jr., Milford; stepson, Eugene “Jack” Sleezer Sr., Tiffin, Ohio; four grandsons; sisters, Vicki Stengel, Goshen, and Betty Stengel, Bristol; and friend, Dorothy Grant, Milford.

Services were held Oct. 6 at Rieth Rohrer Ehret Funeral Home, Goshen. Burial was in Brown Cemetery, Millersburg.

Carol Swartz

Carol Swartz, 76, Warsaw, died at 12:35 p.m. Oct. 4, 2023.

She was born June 12, 1947. On Sept. 7, 1968, she married Stanley W. Swartz; he survives.

Also surviving are her children, Amy Mayer, Kelly Dawson and Kevin

Swartz, all of Warsaw; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; siblings, Marianne Clark, Richmond, Mike Gonya, Fort Wayne, and Nancy Barker, Pierceton; and sisters- and brother-inlaw, Mary Gonya, Sally Gonya and Phil Fry.

Mass of Christian burial was held Oct. 10 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Warsaw. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw. McHattonSadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Maria Vallin

Maria Vallin, 81, Warsaw, died Oct. 3, 2023.

Mass of Christian burial was held Oct. 7 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, Warsaw. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw. Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw was in charge of arrangements.

Dr. Gail Ann Walenga

Dr. Gail Ann Walenga, 75, died Sept. 22, 2023.

She was born Feb. 29, 1948. On Jan. 14, 2001, she married Steven K. Schuhle; he survives.

She is also survived by a brother, Nicholas Walenga, Warsaw; brother-inlaw, Douglas Schuhle, Beaver Dam, Va.; father-in-law, Robert A. Schuhle, Williamsburg, Va.; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

A memorial mass was held Oct. 7 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Warsaw. McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Stanley R. Williams

Stanley “Stan” R. Williams, 91, Silver Lake, died at 12:42 a.m. Sept. 19, 2023.

He was born Aug. 3, 1932. On April 12, 1953, he married Mary Evelyn “Toots” Williams. She preceded him in death Dec. 22, 2009.

He is survived by a son, David Williams, Silver Lake; daughter, JoAnn Richardson, Warsaw; two grandsons; three great-grandchildren; and his beloved dog, Izzy.

A graveside service will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 12, at Lakeview Cemetery, Silver Lake. Military rites will be conducted by members of the American Legion Post 49, VFW Post 1126, both of Warsaw, and active duty members of the Army Honor Guard. Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw, is in charge of arrangements.

Ruby Nicole Wilson

Ruby Nicole Wilson, 20 weeks old, North Manchester, died Sept. 30, 2023.

She was born May 12, 2023. Surviving are her parents, Aaron and Shelby (Johnson) Wilson, North Manchester; brothers, Liam Durwood Wilson and Emmett Scott Wilson; an aunt; two uncles; four cousins; paternal grandparents, Ron and Amy Wilson, Continued on page 13

B IRTHS

Leah Rose Schertz

Austin and Jennifer (Yoder) Schertz, Wakarusa, are the parents of a daughter, Leah Rose, born Sept. 14, 2023, at home. She weighed 6 pounds, 11 ounces, and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Leah joins four siblings: Levi, Caleb, Josiah and Eden.

June Polsean

Aaron and Alicia Polsean, Syracuse, are the parents of a daughter, June, born at 4:10 p.m. Sept. 29, 2023, at Goshen Hospital. She weighed 6 pounds and was 18 1/2 inches long.

Aeric James Griffith

Raven Fancher and Austin Griffith, Syracuse, are the parents of a son, Aeric James, born at 2:44 a.m. Sept. 30, 2023, at Goshen Hospital.

Curtis Lee Kuhns

Glenn and Donna (Miller) Kuhns, Nappanee, are the parents of a son, Curtis Lee, born at 5:29 p.m. Oct. 1, 2023, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 6 pounds, 13.5 ounces, and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Peru; maternal grandparents, Shawn and Nikki Johnon, North Manchester; paternal great-grandparents, Bill and Molly Wilson, Kokomo, and Randy McGaugh, Peru; and maternal greatgrandmother, Pamela Johnson, North Manchester.

Services were held Oct. 7 at Sweetwater Assembly of God, North Manchester. McKee Mortuary, North Manchester, was in charge of arrangements.

Sally E. Wise

Sally E. Wise, 85, Winona Lake, for-

C

merly of Milford, died Oct. 3, 2023.

She was born Jan. 20, 1938. On Aug. 18, 1957, Robert F. Wise, who preceded her in death.

Surviving are her children, Scott Wise, Sherrill Hamman, Angie Clement and Vicki Smith; 13 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and brothers, Jay Stouder and Jim Stouder.

To celebrate Sally’s life, visitation with a memorial service was held Oct.

6 at Titus Funeral Home in Syracuse. Burial at Milford Cemetery immediately followed.

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:

Money Matters Professional Collections LLC v. Angela M. Bole, $1,139.74; v. Crystal L. Cybulski, $1,093.62; v. Faith Detwiler, $1,466.49; v. Katelyn M. Edgington, $1,092.99; v. Lane A. Flowers, $543.74; v. Kalli P. McKee, $541.12; v. Alan Robbins, $1,954.05; v. Summer Robbins, $1,954.05; v. Sean

E. Shumaker, $3,359.24; v. Dennis

L. Slabaugh, Melissa A. Slabaugh, $2,628.74; v. Brad Stahl, $1,024.63; v. Sara L. Swiger, $977.74; v. Angelika

S. Weidenbenner, $2,152; v. Ryan Weidenbenner, $2,152.50

Susan Estes v. Chris and Kristin Noble, $1,500

Gary Miller v. Matthew Fisher d/b/a M+J’s Small Engine Repair, $982.57

Lisa Grubbs v. Cheryl Gray, $719.85

Patricia Joy Taylor v. Kia Gunnels, $1,880.87

Gebfert-Park Family Dentistry v.

Josiah Habeggaer, $117.46

Stucky Lauer & Young LLP v. Nona Hughes, $703.42; v. Charles Lucas, $150.83

C.L. Benz Co. LLC d/b/a Titus Fu-

neral Home v. Toni Lester, $2,240

Warsaw Health System LLC, d/b/a

Kosciusko Community Hospital v. Ashley Brown, $874.44

General Audit Corp. v. Patrick Burchett, $852.82; v. Nerissa Champaco, $376.22; v. Rebecca L. Tallman, $310.76

Nugenesis Inc. v. Warsaw Meadows

Care Center, $5,805

Sherri Makinson v. Elyssa Craft, Mark Metz, $945; v. Colby Dugan, Mandy Ramirez, $2,982.29; v. Destiny

Eicher, $1,078.86

Civil Collections

Kosciusko County

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

Bank of America NA v. Andrew Vickrey Barsell, $5,836.90; v. Andrew Vickrey Barsell, $3,560.46

Mariner Finance LLC v. Steven R. Bowers, $1,471.90

Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Jonathon B. Craft, $6,425.52; v. Mary Drudge, $4,050.89; v. Sarah Jedych, $10,389.93; v. Hunter Julian, $10,572.27; v. Mara Lumbard, $16,613.66; v. Sabra VanHorn,

Austin Daniel Yoder

Austin Daniel Yoder, 27, Cromwell, died Sept. 28, 2023.

He was born Nov. 10, 1995.

Surviving are his parents, Eugene and Loretta (Troyer) Yoder; and siblings, Amber Lynn Skaggs, Bridgette Noel and Carmen Jane Yoder, all of Topeka, Bailey Eugene Yoder, San Diego, Calif., and Dalton Dane, Easton Corbin and Finnley Augustus Monroe Yoder, all at home.

Services were held Oct. 6 at Riverview Christian Fellowship, White

Pigeon, Mich. Burial was in Townline Cemetery, Shipshewana. YoderCulp Funeral Home, Goshen, was in charge of arrangements.

Esther Marie Yoder

Esther Marie Yoder, 59, Bremen, died at 10:43 a.m. Oct. 1, 2023.

She was born July 22, 1964. On Dec. 25, 1985, she married Robert Lee Yoder; he survives.

Also surviving are her children, Paul Yoder and Naomi Borkholder, both of Plymouth, Steven Ray Yoder and Gilbert Yoder, both of Bremen,

Ruby Plank, Bourbon, Edna Borkholder and Ruth Bontrager, both of Nappanee; 22 grandchildren; siblings, Naomi Yoder, Fredricksburg, Ohio, Roy Yoder, Libby, Mont., Carol Yoder, Townville, Pa., Clara Slabaugh, Nappanee, DeWayne Yoder, Millersburg, Ohio, Sandra Yoder, Trout Creek, Mont., and Ervin Yoder Jr.; and sister-in-law, Trish Yoder, Millersburg, Ohio.

Services were held Oct. 4 at the family residence in Bremen. Burial was in Cedar Road Cemetery.

$7,391.94

SAC Finance Inc. v. Joseph D. Granzo, Linsey P. Hartman, $20,541.48; v. Kayla K. Swick, $17,739.35; v. Dustin

L. Swindle, $14,896.60

Discover Bank v. Woody Hancock, $5,454.07

American Express National Bank

v. Le Ann Harris, $3,377

LVNV Funding LLC v. Heather Holbrook, $1,897.13; v. Michael T. Sautter, $5,572.42; Mariana R. Torres, $1,412.26

Capital One NA v. Michael L. Howell, $2,381.89; v. Sandee G. Mills, $9,514.88; v. Montana M. Wharton, $1,828.02

Warsaw Health System LLC, d/b/a Kosciusko Community Hospital v. Ralph Prater, $10,733

Tidewater Finance Co., Tidewater Motor Credit v. Douglas J. Rekucki, $5,757.42

Warsaw Health System LLC, d/b/a

Komyatte & Casbon PC v. Cassie Shaw, $15,814.83

Glenbrook Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Devinn A. Smith, $10,718.82

Citibank NA v. Adam J. Valentiny, $1,975.90

Elkhart County

The following civil collections have been awarded in Elkhart Circuit Court:

Discover Bank v. Mark Cottey, Milford, $2,341.95

Interra Credit Union v. Cheyanne and Tyler Thompson, Nappanee, $6,926.96

Evictions

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

United Six Properties LLC v. Brandi Cusher a/k/a Brandi Wright, $1,467.89

M/Dee Acres/Ruch Rentals LLC v. Moses Hostetler, $3,537.09; v. Johnathan Seitner v. Chrissy Roberts, $2,816.66

Pike Lake Pointe Apartments v. Teresa Stromatt, $3,082.98 Mortgage Foreclosures

Elkhart County

The following mortgage foreclosure has been awarded in Elkhart Superior Court III:

New American Funding, LLC v. Jessica C. and Jacob M. Baker, Nappanee, and Interra Credit Union, $116,952.97

Plenaries

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

Kosciusko County Board of Zoning Appeals v. Jeffery J. Miller, $15,000

Superior Court III

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

Speeding — Sydney G. Miller, Warsaw, $164.50; Danielle Hurd, Warsaw, $164.50; Dustin J. Milton, Nappanee, $164.50; Travis D. Huffman, Rochester, $164.50

Improper display of license plate — Matthew S. Anderson, Pierceton, $164

Driving while suspended — Henry R. Borrero, Winona Lake, $189.50; Chad A. Fouts, Warsaw, $189.50; Heather L. West, North Webster, $189.50; Jeremy S. Young, Warsaw, $185.50

Failure to register — Prashanth R. Penta Reddy, Warsaw, $164.50; Jonathan E. Boggs, Warsaw, $164.50

No valid driver’s license, speeding — Rafael P. Ceniceros, Mentone, $189.50

No valid driver’s license — Pedro R. Sarabia, Warsaw, $164.50; Julian M. Rasler, Cromwell, $164.50 Distracted driving — Timothy N. Collins, Mentone, $164.50

Driving while suspended, address or name change violation

Delmar Estep III, Silver Lake, $214.50

Driving while suspended, failure to register — Becky J. Lewallen, Syracuse, $214.50

Operating a motor vehicle without financial responsibility

Taylor M. Patrick, Warsaw, $189.50

Operating with expired plates

Peter W. Terpstra III, Warsaw, $164 Speeding, address or name change violation, driving while suspended — Yolanda A. Mata Rios, Silver Lake, $239.50

Marriage Licenses

Kosciusko County

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

the Court Ann Torpy: Carr-Lehman

Israel Tobias Carr, 22, Winona Lake, and Karlee Regan Lehman, 22, Middlebury

Marks-Rudolph

Andrew David Marks, 32, Warsaw, and Patricia Jasmine Rudolph, 25, Warsaw

Jennings-Burris

Erin Elizabeth Jennings, 42, Syracuse, and Aaron Burris, 50, Syracuse

May-Sommers

Jace Daniel May, 22, North Webster, and Anah Frances Mary Sommers, 23, Warsaw Skiles-Bower

Daniel Scott Skiles, Claypool, and Shianne Laria Bower, 25, Claypool

Workman-Cannon

Kalynn Marie Workman, 23, Milford, and Anthony Michael Cannon, 24, Milford

Conley-Elliott

Fanny Lilly Ann Conley, 28, Warsaw, and Blaine Adam Elliott, 42, Warsaw

Moore-Hays

Shawna Lynn Moore, 47, Claypool, and Cheston McClellan Hays, 53, Claypool

McQuade-Burns

Aidan Luke McQuade, 20, Warsaw, and Abigail Grace Burns, 21, Warsaw

Coleman-Urick

Chad Dalton Coleman, 32, Warsaw, and Erika Anne Urick, 32, Warsaw

Poor-Keene

Matthew Steven Poor, 21, Wabash, and Kristi Lynn Keene, 34, Warsaw

Goble-Gregory

Lawrence A. Goble, 70, Warsaw, and Suzanne Renee Gregory, 43, Louisville, Ky.

Howard-Ellis

Haley Regan Howard, 21, South Whitley, and Joshua Thomas Ellis, 23, Warsaw

Borkholder-Miller

Jeremiah Jon Borkholder, 20,

Bremen, and Cheryl Renee Miller, 20, Nappanee

Bontrager-Bourn

Caleb Ivan Bontrager, 18, Warsaw, and Rebekah Elena Bourn, 18, Warsaw

Blevins-Crane

Braxton Scott Blevins, 23, Leesburg, and Jordan Daniel Crane, 29, Leesburg

Sexton-Berger

Zachary Sexton, 29, Warsaw, and Calista Berger, 24, Warsaw

Marriage

Dissolutions

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

Cira — Andrea Cira, Columbia City, and Michael Cira, Columbia City. They were married June 21, 2013, and separated Oct. 1, 2023. One minor child.

Nethaway — Ronald Nethaway, Milford, and Katherine Nethaway, Milford. They were married Aug. 12, 2006, and separated Sept. 29, 2023. Two minor children.

Schmucker — Ida M. Schmucker, Milford, and Levi D. Schmucker, Wauzeka, Wis. They were married Aug. 17, 2012, and separated Feb. 27, 2023. Two minor children. Sisk — Shaun M. Sisk, Warsaw, and Jody N. Sisk, Warsaw. They were married April 20, 2014, and separated in 2023. One minor child.

Schultz-Brown — Kendall Schultz, Warsaw, and Jason Brown, Warsaw. They were married Nov. 9, 2013, and separated Aug. 26, 2023. No minor children.

Larsh — Chad A. Larsh, Claypool, and Michelle M. Larsh, Warsaw. They were married Feb. 14, 1997, and separated Oct. 3, 2023. No minor children.

Troxell — Elizabeth Troxell, Leesburg, and James Troxell Jr., Leesburg. They were married Aug. 9, 2014, and separated Sept. 17, 2023. No minor children.

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P UBLIC A UCTIONS

Hambrice Auction

6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 12. Tract 1: house, buildings, 6.82 acres. Tract 2: 3 acre potential building site. Tract 3: 3.2 acre swing tract. Located at 59152 Old CR 17, Goshen. Hahn Auctioneers. Fall Pony Auction

3:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13. Located at the MEC, 455 E. Farver St., Shipshewana. Selling 136 lots of driving ponies, catalog available at chuppauctions.com. Chupp Auctions.

Irene Miller Estate Auction

9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 14. Trucks, SUVs, trailers, tractors, skid loaders, ATVs, lawn & garden, shop equipment, tools, household, furniture, misc. Preview 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13. Located at 8566 W. 1050N, Napannee. Hahn Auctioneers.

Online Cabinet Auction

4 p.m. Monday, Oct. 16. Pickup Location: Pierceton. High-end kitchen cabinet auction, direct from manufacturer. Complete kitchens & individual cabinets, choose your finish & style. Bid online at bidmetzger.com.

Waubee Lake

Property Auction

6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 16. Ranch house, 3-bed and 1-bath with attached garage and freestanding storage shed, lake view. Located at 221 E. Nelson Dr., Milford. Hahn Auctioneers. Weirich Auction

2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17, personal property, 6 p.m. real estate. House and outbuilding , 7.07 acres, mostly wooded. Personal property includes 2004 Buick LaSabre, 1985 Oldsmobile Delta, riding mowers, tools, furniture, household goods. Open house

Yakym sets mobile office hours

4-6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 2. Located west of SR 13 in Syracuse on CR 1200N to CR 450E, then south 1/2 mile to 11456 N. 450E, Syracuse. Hahn Auctioneers.

Complete Home Salvage

Online Auction

Lots start closing 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 18. Full custom kitchens, vanities, garage doors, heating & AC units, appliances, windows, flooring, cabinets, light fixtures, electrical siding, furniture, structural components.

Preview 3-4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15. Located at 3395 W. South River Rd., Logansport. MetzgerAuction.com

Clayton Real Estate and Personal Property Auction

4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19. Ranch house, 2-bed and 1-bath, attached garage and storage shed on .59 acres.

Open house 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct.

4. Located 1526 N. Main St., Nappanee.

Haab Personal Property Auction

9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 21. Barn & building full of antiques, collectibles, misc. Pictures available on auctionzip.com. Located at 13554 N. 250E, Syracuse. Salazar Auction Service.

LeCount Real Estate and Personal Property Auction

Noon, Tuesday, Oct. 24 personal property, 6 p.m. real estate. Open house 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 4 or by appointment. Warsaw country property, 3-bed, 2-bath brick home. Motor home, lawn & garden equipment, household and more. Located at 1629 S. Grove Ave., Warsaw. Hahn Auctioneers.

U.S. Rep. Rudy Yakym, a Republican representing Indiana’s Second Congressional District, has set mobile office hours for October throughout the district. Mobile office hours allow Yakym’s staff to assist constituents with casework and questions.

The hours, times and locations are:

Elkhart County

• 10:30 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Oct. 17, Goshen Chamber of Commerce, 232 S. Main St.

• 10-11:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 23, Wakarusa Public Library, 124 N. Elkhart St. Kosciusko County

• 10-11:00 a.m. Friday, Oct. 20, Etna Green Town Hall, 106 S. Walnut St.

• 10 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Oct. 31, Warsaw City Hall, 102 S. Buffalo St. Marshall County

• 9:30-11:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 12, Plymouth City Hall (mayor’s office, second floor), 124 N. Michigan St.

• 1-2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 26, Argos Town Hall, 201 W. Walnut St.

NPL, Evelyn Lehman Culp Heritage Collection presents ‘Night at the Museum: Architecture in Nappanee’

Nappanee history comes to life when the lights go out from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14, The Nappanee Public Library and the Evelyn Lehman Culp Heritage Collection will present the 12th annual “Night at the Museum: Architecture in Nappanee.”

This production is a lightsout, after-hours tour of the Evelyn Lehman Culp Heritage Collection at the Nappanee Center, located at 302 W. Market St. Nappanee.

During the tour, guides will take visitors on an interactive flashlight adventure through

Kosciusko Chamber hosts

‘Move Kosciusko Challenge’

The Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce will be hosting the second annual “Move Kosciusko Challenge.” The event will feature healthrelated challenges to encourage Kosciusko County residents to be active, while using some of the as-

sets found in the community.

Kosciusko County residents are encouraged to create a team of up to five members within their company, which can be family or friends, to complete the challenges. New challenges will be released weekly from through Tuesday, Oct. 31. Visit kchamber.com/move for more information.

There is no cost to enter a team.

To sign up, download the Goosechase app on your mobile device and enter the join code J4RPGW and password movekosciusko.

“I am very proud of the health and wellness committee at the

Q020

chamber for their dedication to making the community a healthy and happier community,” said Rob Parker, Kosciusko Chamber president and chief executive officer. “By partnering together, the chamber has found a fun and engaging activity that will get people moving and exercising and experiencing our tremendous assets. I am excited that this will be a regular occurring event in our community.”

“Move Kosciusko” is sponsored by Goshen Health and K21 Health Foundation. Event partners include Grace College and Seminary, Live Well Kosciusko, and Warsaw Parkview YMCA.

the museum, with live actors portraying the parts of Nappanee citizens. Participants will learn more about Nappanee and the architect who designed the majority of the downtown.

The script for “Architecture in Nappanee,” written by Martha Owen, Heritage Collection

manager at Nappanee Public Library, was based on the life of Henry Frazier, a local Nappanee architect from the late 1800s. Reserve a time online at nappaneelibrary.org or call or visit the library from Oct. 10-14 to reserve a tour time and receive a fast pass.

Mayra Tapia begins first semester at Eastern

More than 900 new students are in their first semester at Eastern Connecticut State University this fall 2023. The new admits include 696 first-time students and 254 transfer students, who are enrolled in undergraduate and graduate-level programs.

Among them is Mayra Yuliana Baltazar Tapia of Nappanee, a first-year student who is majoring in exploratory STEM.

The most popular majors for the new students include: psychology, business administration, health sciences, computer science, art and biology. The students come from nearly all of Connecticut’s 169 towns and 21 other states. Outside of Connecticut, the biggest feeder states for the new students include Massachusetts, New York and Rhode Island.

These students join a student body of nearly 4,000 who are en-

rolled for the 2023-24 academic year. In total, 30 states are represented among them and approximately 30% are the first in their families to attend college.

Fall bazaar at American Legion

A fall bazaar will be held Saturday, Oct. 21, at the American Legion Post 49. The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Legion, 311 N. Buffalo St., Warsaw.

A flier for the bazaar says to “grab some lunch and shop.”

Contact Tina Alcala at (574) 253-3076.

‘Empty the Shelters’ campaign through Oct. 15

The nation’s animal shelters are in crisis due to increased owner surrenders and stray intakes, spiking post-pandemic euthanasia rates across the country.

To help as many pets as possible go from shelter kennels to the couches of loving homes, BISSELL Pet Foundation is hosting its fall, national “Empty the Shelters” reduced-fee adoption event at the following shelters in the area: Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County, Fulton County Animal Center, and Humane Society of Elkhart County.

From now through Oct. 15, BISSELL Pet Foundation will sponsor reduced adoption fees at more than 345 shelters in 42 states. Adopters can save a life and bring home a spayed or neutered, vaccinated pet available for adoption for just $50 or less.

The nation’s animal shelters are in crisis. Animal intakes at both public and private shelters are expected to reach a three-year high this year, and adoptions or returns to owners are not keeping pace, according to the shelter animals’ count database.

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- Wawasee

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Wawasee Marching Pride heading to state

It’s been a banner year for the Wawasee Marching Warrior Pride. It has taken first place in its class and earned the special caption awards for general effect, music and visual at the Goshen Invitational, DeKalb Invitational and at Carroll High School’s contest. The band did well enough to qualify for state finals in Indianapolis, which will be Oct. 14.

“It’s a lot of hours people don’t see, passion from the kids, parents and those involved who volunteer,” said Tony Pawlicki, band director.

At DeKalb, the band not only beat all the bands in its class, but also all the bands in Scholastic A. Wawasee competes in Scholastic B.

For its show this year, the band has 55 performers on the field, seven alternate instrumentalists, and four junior variety color guard for a total of 66 musicians. Putting the show on the field also requires 24 adults moving props, percussion and sound equipment.

This year’s theme is “To Dream,” featuring music from “Requiem for a Dream;” “Sweet Dreams” by The Eurythmics; “A Million Dreams” from “The Greatest Showman;” and “Beautiful Dreams” by Steve Foster.

Pawlicki said he chose the theme based on the music.

“There are very few parts where it is just one song. At times it’s a mash up. In one movement, three of the four piec-

Continued on page 3

Wawasee

Continued from page 2

es weave together,” he said.

The show is also very heavy on keyboard.

“I knew this would be a good show. It’s a very cool show. It’s a crowd pleaser because there’s something there everyone recognizes,” Pawlicki said.

He found the music while recovering from surgery last spring.

“We found the music and brought the other elements into it,” he explained.

This year, the season was also a week shorter with three preliminaries before qualifiers for state. Knowing they would have to start ahead of schedule, Pawlicki got the music to the band students last May and then spent most of parade band camp working on the show.

“It helped us get a good start,” he said.

The drill is accessible for the band members, yet complicated enough to earn points.

Pawlicki said in the end, his philosophy is for them to have fun.

“The end result and community bring about a family atmosphere,” he said.

Warsaw Marching Tiger Pride looks ‘Deep Within The Mirror’

ments: temptation, self obsession and breaking free.”

The Scholastic Class A band is led by Ziegler, who is assisted by David Knouse and Joe Peloza.

“Our show is titled ‘Deep Within The Mirror.’ The concept of the show is draw of vanity and self obsession, the breaking free from the temptation of being self-obsessed, and realizing that the unification of the group is more important than the individual,” Mark Ziegler, Warsaw Marching Tiger Pride band director, explained. “The show is in three move-

Other band leaders include: Jon Bay, drill design; Alex Yoder, music design; Matthew Knouse, music and visual design, Wendy Bussard and Ethel Taylor, guard; Alan Frye and Brandon Bussard, percussion; Cate Harris and Brianna Stavedahl, drum majors; Maggie Burkholder and Megan Lothamer, flute section leaders; Amberlee Busz, clarinet section leader; Madison Kohler, saxophone section leader;

Avimael Fugate and Isaac Ioane, trumpet section leaders; Violet Watson, mellophone section leader; Elijah Banes and Shannon Ridley, low-brass section leaders; Camden Fry, tuba section leader; Melanie Hertzler and Wyatt Stevens, drumline section leaders; Luis Campos, pit section leader; Megan Kuhaneck and Andrew Setser, color guard section leaders; Annalisa Hertzler and Wyatt Stevens, logistic crew leaders; and Shannon Ridley, Brighan Hudson, Rain Copley, Max Stone and Cadence Gallo handle logistics.

Continued on page 6

“Our families serving your family with professionalism, compassion and

Pierceton and Warsaw

Michael and Tracy Wilson

“The close-knit nature of marching band and how much time they spend together fosters strong friendships and a sense of belonging,” Ziegler explained. “Marching band teaches the value of work ethic, persistence and continuous improvement. They all work together to achieve individual and group goals.”

So far this year, the Tiger Pride band has competed in four competitions. At the Goshen Invitational, held Sept. 9, the band placed fourth in Open Class A. At the Northwestern Invitational, held Sept. 16, the band placed second in Scholastic Class A, won Best Visual and Best Percussion. At the Carroll Invitational, held Sept. 23, the band placed first in Scholastic Class A, won Best Effect and Best Visual.

Recently, on Sept. 30, the band competed at the ISSMA Scholastic Preliminaries where they received a silver rating but will not advance to the ISSMA Scholastic Finals.

“Being a member of a competitive marching band provides our students with a lot of opportunities and skills that are very useful in everyday application. The students have the opportunity to work with their peers in both large and small-team environments, while gaining teamwork skills along the way. They also learn the value of striving for perfection and different techniques that can be used to prepare themselves for a high level of performance. It also teaches them how to perform with passion and commitment and when you are prepared that becomes much easier,” Ziegler explained. “Competition also provides an opportunity for our students to be on a large stage and be recognized for their tireless efforts. They certainly will create memories they will remember the rest of their lives.”

TVHS Vikings band marches to a new beat

The Tippecanoe Valley High School Vikings marching band is directed by Janell Riner.

She said marching band is important to students and their families.

“Students need and benefit from the physical and mental discipline of marching while playing an instrument. It trains students to focus for extended periods of time through all kinds of circumstances,” she said.

Achieving success in such a demanding activity really builds each member’s sense of individual accomplishment, Riner noted, but also a connection to something bigger than themselves.

“Students who participate in marching events are contributing to important American traditions and elevating community events, such as parades and festivals.” Riner said.

Riner added the band does not march in a field show, so there is no theme this year.

Riner hopes the band students will have a positive experience this year.

“Our season is football season right now. My goal is for the band to always take pride in themselves and the job they do, whether it’s a pep band performance, a contest, a concert, or a community service,” she said. “I hope they will appreciate the unique opportunity to not only play an instrument, but to be great at it.”

She added, “I want them to take advantage of the camaraderie and high-energy fun that band offers.”

A few of the songs the band plays at games include: “Gonna Fly Now” (the theme from the movie “Rocky”), “Saturday in the Park,” “In the Midnight Hour,” “Sweet Caroline,” and “Funkytown.”

The band has 23 musicians this year.

“We currently have students auditioning for the Purdue Fort Wayne Three Rivers Honor Band Festival, which will take place Saturday, Dec. 2. We will also have students performing at district and state solo and ensemble contests in January and February,” Riner said.

She added, “Because we make it a priority to honor veterans, each year we have a group of band volunteers who perform at the Mentone Memorial Day Service and the “Rotors Over Mentone” annual helicopter fly-in at the Bell Aircraft Museum.

This year’s Rotors event was especially memorable,

Good Luck Team! King Memorial Home Mentone

said Riner. The guest speaker at the event was John Walker, co-founder of the American Huey 369 organization. After Walker’s presentation, he came over to the band and thanked them personally for being there, also telling them, “being in band makes you better people.”

To show his appreciation, Walker treated all band members to a free flight on the Bell UH-1 “Huey” helicopter his group flew there for the event. None of the band members had flown in a helicopter before, let alone an iconic Vietnam War-era military aircraft.

“It was an unforgettable experience for them all,” Riner said.

Marching Trojans work to bring Triton to the top

Triton Junior-Senior High School’s Marching Trojans, while a smaller band with 39 members, exhibits big ambition.

“We’re small town but there’s a lot of talent,” said band Director David Seel.

Seel has been directing for nine years and in that time has made some significant improvements, raising the band’s competitive status from festival to open class.

“The program has changed quite a bit. They were kind of a football band; they weren’t really very serious in competition,” Seel recalled. “I came in on the scene and our second year in the competition, we made scholastic finals for the first time ever.”

Since then, the band has continued to improve. In 2021, the Trojans reached its highest competition rank yet by making it to state semi-finals. The goal now is to make it to the state finals at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Seel is feeling positive about the direction the band is going.

“I think the kids are very motivated; they’ve really stepped it up this year. We are looking better, sounding better than we did last year,” he said.

The members of the band range from grades seven to 12. There are three flutes, four clarinets, three alto saxophones, five trumpets, two mellophones, four baritones, two tubas, five percussion and nine color guard.

Seel is accompanied by percussion instructor, Charles Lawrence, and color guard leader Raquel Teutle.

This year’s drum major is Eli Lucas, a 12th grader who has maintained his position from last year. Seel said, “Eli does a great job of keeping the band together; he’s an extremely good leader. I can confidently walk off

this parking lot with the staff and with him, they’re going to get stuff done. You can’t say that about a lot of bands.”

The theme for this year’s music is “This Is Home,” which Seel said was inspired by the variety of different backgrounds his students come from.

“We have some that are raised by single parents, grandparents, there are different walks of life, of how these kids live,” he explained. “Some have good upbringings and some don’t. We kind of treat band like family.”

Some of the music is original, arranged by Seel and Lawrence. In keeping with the theme, the music will be accompanied by large wheeled picture displays representing families and different life stages.

When it comes to what he wants he wants his students to learn from their experiences in the band, Seel said, “All the hard work you put into it will pay off if you

Good Luck To All Schools

are consistent with your hard work and dedication. Because it’s hard; marching band is not easy.”

After three weeks of band camp over the summer, involving long days practicing routines in the hot sun, the Trojans were ready for action. They took first place at the first competition of the year and second place at the second.

“We’ve already seen the rewards early on in our placements,” Seel continued. “But it’s not about placements; it’s about the experience of this activity and the memories that I want them to take away regardless of where we end up ... I think they enjoy it because of the thrill of performing on a football field. They enjoy being able just to put that out there for an audience and the judges and say, ‘Hey, here’s what we got.’”

Upcoming Saturday contests include Oct. 21, semistate at Franklin Community High School and Oct. 28, state finals at Lucas Oil Stadium.

NorthWood Red Regiment looks to improve on state runner-up finish

The NorthWood Red Regiment is in the midst of another successful marching band season. Last year, the band finished as state runners up in the Indiana State School Music Association Class C. The finals were held at Lucas Oil Stadium Nov. 5, 2022, and included 40 bands across four classes, based on school enrollment.

“Red Regiment is part of the ‘Tradition of Excellence’ at NorthWood High School,” said veteran band Director Eric Criss. “The school and community take pride in our band in parades and sporting events. Our students are driven and strive for a high level of performance.”

This year’s show and theme is “Once Upon Another Time,” featuring the song by the same name by Sara Bareilles. Other songs in the performance are “Come On, It’s Time To Go,” “Forever’s Not So Long” and “Which Life Is Mine?”

“I hope our band students experience team work, dedication and personal growth during this year’s band season,” said Criss.

This year’s band is led by Drum Major Emma Norris. In total, the band features 88 student members, which is approximately 10% of the entire student body, including 25 woodwinds, 28 brass, 15 percussion and 18 color guard.

Assisting Criss is Assistant Director Joey Shepherd. Other staff members include: Jack Pursifull, Don Barrett, Brayton Mendenhall, Stephanie Miller, Courtney Grubbs, Ashton Rice, Sierra Huber, Martin Becker, Judy Becker, Don Krug, Bret Deardorff, Luke Morningstar, Reese Huber, Kyle Travis, Christian Slaven and Maxwell Hamilton.

During September, the band participated in four invitational contests: Penn, Goshen, Concord and Plymouth. It continued in the ISSMA competitions, including at regionals held Oct. 7, at Lafayette Jefferson High School. The ISSMA semi-state competition will take place Oct. 21, at Decatur Central High School, followed by the state

finals at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis Oct. 27.

When the band travels it requires a convoy of vehicles to transport bodies, instruments and equipment. It hits the road with three full-sized buses, one minibus, one staff vehicle, one semi, one fifth-wheel trailer and one truck and trailer. In addition to the band members, the traveling party includes 46 others, filling the roles of staff, chaperones and pit crew.

The Red Regiment is a 15-time ISSMA state finalist; a nine-time IPA concert percussion state finalist; a four-time Winter Guard state finalist, including the last three seasons; and has won the ISSMA Band Department Award eight times, including in 2023.

Fairfield encourages band to ‘Speak’

It is time to speak loud and proud at Fairfield High School as director of bands, Mykayla Roskos-Neilson had a simple theme of “Speak” for this year’s show.

“It’s really the student’s show where we wanted them to feel like they have a voice,” Roskos-Neilson said.

Roskos-Neilson said the theme was picked to combat the negative thoughts teenagers battle daily. The show begins with critical comments students hear before the band eliminates the comments with their music. The logo for the theme is covered up in chains before being revealed.

The Fairfield Marching Pride and Winter Guard sports 80 students for an impressive percentage for a school with under 600 enrolled. The Falcons are made up of 42 winds, 17 percussion, 20 color guard and one drum major.

“I think it has grown almost to the size that it was in the 1990s. That’s cool seeing that growth. I guess you could say Fairfield is on the map with their creative shows. They always have been,” Roskos-Neilson said.

Fairfield has experimented in the past with creative ideas, including a dance break and a guitar solo.

“We push the envelope a little bit. This year we have both an electric guitar and dancing,” Roskos-Neilson said.

A Fairfield alumna from the class of 2013, Roskos-Neilson enjoys keeping the tradition going. The program has participated in state meets regularly for 15 years.

“I think that tradition of families, who were in marching band, now their kids are in marching band. It’s just been a

long generation that has walked through the program,” Roskos-Neilson said.

While performing well at competitions is a goal, RoskosNeilson is more passionate about seeing growth in her students.

“Ultimately, when we are all on the field at the state finals, what I am most proud of is the growth of that group,” Roskos-Neilson said. “I have been with a few groups down there at the state finals. There have been some years where there hasn’t been as much growth, and there have been years where there has been an insurmountable amount of growth and that’s what I’m hoping for these kids.”

Fairfield has four upcoming competitions in the Indianapolis area with three at Lucas Oil Stadium. The BOA Super

Regional is at Lucas Oil Stadium Friday, Oct. 20, followed by ISSMA Semistate at Decatur Central High School Saturday, Oct. 21. The ISSMA State Finals at Lucas Oil Stadium is Saturday, Oct. 28. Fairfield will also attend the BOA Grand Nationals at Lucas Oil Stadium from Nov. 9-11.

In addition to working with the band, Roskos-Neilson teaches music at the school. She hopes her students can use music to express themselves no matter what industry they go into.

“The reason why I became a teacher was because music was an escape for me,” Roskos-Neilson said. “Hopefully, that is how the kids feel now and that it continues in the future. Even if they are going to be a finance major, (they) utilize their opportunity in marching band to find that escape or expression.”