the Paper - Kosciusko County Edition - October 19, 2022

James Janda takes birdhouses to a whole new level

piano he turned into a side table.

In addition to a wide variety of art supplies, Janda’s birdhouses are also constructed with items he finds in nature while kayaking or hiking in the woods and items friends have sent him. Janda has quite a presence in Instagram, and many followers, who are artists themselves, have become friends. These friends have sent him things to incorporate into his birdhouses.

He said he tries to find really cool things from nature. “I’ll take it home with me and three or four months later, I’ll use it. I see the potential in things people get rid of.”

When he first started, he did a lot of experimenting to figure out how to create what he wanted. Some of his tricks include using spray foam adhesive when using bark for roofs or other parts of the birdhouse. The spray foam fills in the gaps naturally occurring in the bark and holds it in place.

Another trick he discovered is using

clear Flex Seal to weatherproof his birdhouses. Prior to discovering Flex Seal, Janda was using Thompson Weather Seal, but has discovered the Flex Seal works better for his art.

He tries to make his birdhouses look as realistic as possible, but there is an element of fantasy in all of them. One commissioned piece he recently finished features a tiki hut on a beach with a pirate ship sinking after hitting “rocks” on the shore made of coral.

When working on a birdhouse, he blends all the hardware and the openings, where someone can clean out the birdhouse at the end of the season, into the background. “I hide all my hardware. I don’t want people to see how what’s holding it all together,” he said. He waits until he sells the birdhouse to drill the holes for the birds.

Janda works second shift, so shortly after he gets home at 11 p.m. he’s doing art “until the sun comes up.” Now he would like to write a book about how he builds

his birdhouses. “That’s on my goal list. I have plenty to write about.”

Because his birdhouses are so elaborate, he recommends they be installed on a 4-inch-by-4-inch fence post topper. His next goal is to start taking his work to local art festivals.

Janda’s biggest piece is a castle he has on display in his home. It took him three years to complete and he intends to use it as his “billboard” when he goes to art festivals.

Janda currently builds birdhouses on commission. He explained he does give the client a say in color and design of the birdhouse, but requests he be given full artistic control on the piece. One thing Janda does like to do with commissioned pieces is put something personal about the client in the piece, such as featuring the person’s zodiac sign.

To find Janda on Instagram, look for The Birdhouse Magician. He can also be at facebook.com/james.janda.798.

Local singing-songwriting sensation receives honors from fans all over the globe

Randy Travis was a dishwasher at the establishment.”

“I met Claudia at the Country Music Jam in Silver Lake,” stated Buddy Eugene, Rochester. “We sang a couple songs together and something just clicked.” Little did they know on that evening 10 years ago they would form the award-winning Country music singing duet sensation, “Buddy Eugene & Claudia.”

“We started out as street musicians in Nashville, Tenn.,” Buddy explained. “Standing on the sidewalk, we sang for those passing by. I used my open guitar case as a tip box.”

With a smile, Claudia added, “It’s very common to be a street musician in Nashville. We had our CDs for sale for those who wanted to purchase them.”

They also performed at The Palace, the legendary bar right outside the Grand Ole Opry. “Many stars started there,” Claudia remarked. “Staff members like to reminisce about the time

When asked what he likes best about performing in front of an audience, Buddy stated, “The applause. Applause is like food to a musician, and Claudia and I are getting fat!” He laughed.

“There’s also a bit of intuition that goes into play when we’re in front of a group,” Claudia said.

“We intuit what the group likes and feed off of their enthusiasm. I love meeting so many people from all over the world.”

Buddy started his singing career with his father. “I sang with dad’s band.”

Claudia, on the other hand, began her dreams of a performing career in the great outdoors.

“I wanted to keep it a secret. I’d go to a secret place outside and pretend I was singing onstage. When I was 19, and most of my friends wanted cars, I wanted a new guitar and lessons.” Both performers play guitar.

They made one album, “Without You,” written by Ewen Vires

and Buddy Eugene. They also have three singles: “My Angel,” written by Buddy Eugene, “I’ll Always Be by Your Side,” written by Jerry Jake Howard and Furman Michael Jones and “I Almost Said I Love You,” written by Bill Rainey.

The couple has earned many awards through the years, some of them international honors. They were awarded the Band of the Year by the CCR Music Awards, Ireland. They were also given the Red Carpet Award from Holland, Netherlands, for Duet of the Year, performing their single “I’ll Always Be By Your Side.”

“International performers all have particular Country Western styles,” Buddy explained. “But some of the international performers use different instruments, such as accordions and concertinas. The Irish singers still have the accent,” he smiled.

A little closer to home, the performers received the International Singers Songwriters Association award for Band of the Year in Atlanta, Ga., this past August at Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center, Beyer Theater. “That’s an elegant place,” Claudia remarked. “I’m usually not tongue-tied, but I got extremely nervous making an acceptance speech in front of the 1,000-member audience.”

The performers have quite a busy traveling schedule.

Buddy retired from B&J Auto Salvage in Leesburg. He loves racing cars at the New Paris Speedway. The singers have an active fan base in New Paris, Milford and Goshen.

Claudia owns the family farm. “Kyle Riffle, my farming tenant, takes care of everything when I’m home or gone. The country farm inspires me to sing and write music.”

Kosciusko REMC to hold electric vehicle test drive event

Kosciusko REMC will hold an electric vehicle test drive experience event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22.

KREMC has invited its members to participate in the event at no cost. Members will be able to register on-site to test drive an EV around a designated route and learn more about EVs from employees and educational handouts.

This event will be held at the KREMC facility, 370 S. CR 250E, Warsaw. Food will be available from the Crooked Barn Smoked BBQ food truck. KREMC members who test drive an EV at the event will receive a free meal from Crooked Barn’s food truck for themselves and any family members present.

To test drive an EV at KREMC’s event, members must be over 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license and sign a waiver. A representative from the organization providing the EV will be present in the car during the test drive.

The purpose of KREMC’s EV event is to provide interested members with a chance to experience driving an EV without the pressure of purchasing one. Wabash Valley Power Alliance will provide their Tesla Model 3 as part of the test drive experience, and the Kerlin Motor Company is contributing a Ford Lightning truck.

KREMC hopes to inform members objectively about the topic and its influence on home electric systems at this event. If the community responds positively, KREMC will consider making the event annual.

For more information and EV event updates, visit Kosciusko REMC’s social media page @KosciuskoREMC.

AlignLife’s new space allows room for growth

AlignLife Chiropractic & Natural Health Center of Warsaw now has more space to serve its clients thanks to a move.

The Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce had a ribbon-cutting for the business’ new location at 311 S. Buffalo St., Monday, Oct. 10.

Owner Dr. Kevin Day said AlignLife has existed in Warsaw since 2010, having previously been located at 118 W. Market St.

There, Day added two more chiropractors: Dr. Morgan Keel and Dr. Cale Fahringer. He said a fourth will be joining AlignLife next year.

“We needed to expand beyond what (the old) building could offer. So that’s when we started looking for other locations and we found this just because it was right around the corner from where we were and it just kind of made sense,” said Day.

“We’ve got a lot more room for expansion, and our plans are to have five docs in the next two years and continue to serve,” he added.

Day emphasized the need is there in the area for chiropractic care and the other services AlignLife offers.

“There’s no shortage of sick

Furniture Factory Outlet to host fall fest with Warsaw Animal Welfare League

The Furniture Factory Outlet is partnering with the Warsaw Animal Welfare League to host “Henry’s Furry Friends Fall Fest.”

This charity event will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, at Furniture Factory Outlet, 3696 E. US 30, Warsaw.

The event will include an opportunity to adopt animals, shop at the outlet and participate in a raffle for prizes such as a new sofa, mattress set, dinette set, speaker end table and much more. All proceeds from the raffle will be given to the Animal Welfare League.

The Furniture Factory Outlet is also hosting a supplies drivethru during the month of October until Oct. 29 for the AWL. Those who donate will receive an additional 5% off in-store.

Atwood trick or treat Oct. 29

Otterbein United Methodist Church, 306 E. Main St., Atwood, will be hosting a trick or treat from 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, in their fellowship hall.

The church’s United Women in Faith group is coordinating the event and wants parents to know this is a safe place for costumed children and those young at heart to trick or treat.

Hot chocolate, donuts and fellowship will be available in the church’s fellowship hall during the event.

Atwood Fire Department will be conducting its trick or treat at the nearby firehouse during the same time period. For more information, call (574) 858-2291.

people in this community,” he said. “Our motto is that families are healthier and safer in our community when they’re under care, compared to when they’re not. So we’re trying to teach the patients or teach the community basically what health and wellness really is.”

He said many people see chiropractic services “as just painrelief.

“And the big picture is that we’re more like a dental approach in that … active wellness is a better way to maintain your health, so not waiting until you have a problem,” said Day. “Trying to take care of it is a much better way to be healthy, so we invest in our teeth to keep them healthy, we need to invest in our spine the same way. And when we do that, people are healthier, they’re stronger, and they get sick

less frequently. They have fewer missed work days.”

Day gave more details regarding the business’ services.

“Our main focus is chiropractic just because you have to have the nerve system functioning properly, but we have a pharmaceutical line called Aceva (for nutrients),” said Day. “We also do counseling with gut health, thyroid health, adrenal health as well, and like I said we have a weight management program called MetaLife.”

AlignLife is currently taking new patients. People may set up appointments by calling (574) 268-2727 or visiting alignlife. com/clinic/warsaw-chiropractor/.

An open house for AlignLife is scheduled for 6-8:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 28 — the same night as Main Street Warsaw’s Spooktakular. There will be a barbecue food truck and drawings for prizes.

Good Neighbors

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

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

Treated wood

Good neighbors: To give away: 12 2-inch-by6-inch-by-12-foot used treated wood, used in a deck. They look good and have a few nails in them. Pick up in Nappanee. Reply through this column. — A reader

Colostomy supplies

Good neighbors: Never opened, five boxes of 10 each, colostomy bags; seven boxes of 10 each, wafers and other supplies. Nappanee area. Reply through this column. — A neighbor

Foggy glassware

Good neighbors: I was told to use denture cleanser tablets like the Efferdent brand for foggy glassware. Hopefully this will work for you. — A reader

New questions

Ninja pitchers — I am looking for Ninja pitchers to replace my cracked ones. Need a BN750 one and a BL660 one. I was disappointed that they didn’t last long before cracking, as my base still works fine. Call (574) 773-3685.

Handyman — Looking for a handyman with experience converting folding closet doors to hinged doors using the conversion kits. Please reply through this column. — A reader

Letter to the editor

Best man for the job

Dear Editor: From the beginning of this election season, Jim Smith has been running for sheriff with the slogan of “More Service, Less Politics.” Even though he has now received the Republican nomination and is running under the Republican banner, he still embodies those words.

“More Service, Less Politics” means dedicating your time to causes greater than yourself. From the beginning of his adult life, Jim Smith has done just that, starting with his service in Operation lraqi Freedom and continuing today through his work in service clubs like the Warsaw Breakfast Optimists and the Leesburg Lions. Jim Smith has a head for service, and he always gives of himself to benefit others.

We welcome readers’ letters.

“More Service, Less Politics” means holding firm to what you believe is best for the whole community and not letting political opinions and self-interest pull you in every direction. Jim Smith has focused much of his campaign on addressing two serious issues: the out-of-control rate of the sheriff’s compensation and the unacceptable damage and drug dealing in the county jail. Despite intense resistance and despite what would be in his best financial interest if elected, he remains steadfast in his intent to implement change.

“More Service, Less Politics” means helping those in need. Jim Smith recognizes the scourge of drug addiction in our community and the good work Sheriff Dukes has done with the Jail Chemical Addiction Program. He will con-

tinue to build on that program and assist those who are serious about their recovery from drug addiction.

Finally, “More Service, Less Politics” means getting to know your neighbor. Jim Smith has walked many miles going door to door during this campaign, has attended countless community events, fish fries, church potlucks, tenderloin dinners and just about anything else you can think of. He’s putting in the work to reach out to everyone he can.

Jim Smith is a conservative Republican and the Republican voters have already given him their nomination. But whether you’re Republican, Democrat, Libertarian or something else, a vote for Jim Smith is a no-brainer. He’s the best man for the job.

Lex Dalton

Our requirements are as follows: Letters must be written to the editor, not the public. They must be signed with full name in ink. Signatures will be printed on all letters. Letters must include an address and phone number, which will be used for verification, but will not be published. Letters may be emailed to dpatterson@the-papers.com. Again, letters must include an address and phone number. We ask that letters be limited to 400 words. Letters longer than 400 words may be edited for brevity.

Writers may be limited to one published letter per month. Readers with lengthy comments should contact an editor about possible guest columns.

Send letters to: ‘the PAPER,’114 W. Market St., Warsaw, IN 46580.

Efforts planned to help deputy’s family

Courney Jenkins at (574) 3777043.

Imagine wondering what life will throw at you next.

Your father was killed in the line of duty when you were around 4 years old. Now you’ve learned you may lose the love of your life and the mother of your 8-year-old daughter to stage 4B cervical cancer. On top of that your two-income family has quickly been brought to a single-income family without time to prepare.

Andrew and Katie Hochstetler, along with their daughter, Maddie, are wondering just that.

Andrew’s father, Kosciusko County Detective Sgt. Phil, was shot and killed on June 29, 1994, while interviewing a suspect about a recent burglary. Andrew went on with life, graduating from Triton High School, enlisting in the Army National Guard and being deployed to Afghanistan in 2018. He joined the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department as a deputy in December 2019. He carries his father’s badge and his unit number.

Katie graduated from Warsaw High School and pursued her education at Ball State University, earning a masters degree in landscape architecture. She became a photographer and quickly became one of the area’s highly sought after photographers.

Things changed for the Hochstetler family in the spring of 2022. Katie became ill and was diagnosed with stage 4B cervical cancer. Due to the severity of her cancer and the magnitude of her treatment, she has been forced to cancel all her work for the foreseeable future. She is undergoing intense chemotherapy.

The Bible says, “No testing has overtaken you that is not common to everyone. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tested beyond your strength, but with the testing he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13, New Revised Standard Version.

A group of people from the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, Fraternal Order of Police, Support Behind The Badge (a deputy’s wife support group) and The Owls Nest are providing means for the Hochstetler family to endure. These people have joined together to help a member of their “family” and alleviate some of their financial burdens.

A tailgate-themed fundraising party, raffle and live auction is set for 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5, at The Owl’s Nest, 7369 E. 800N, North Webster. There is no cost to attend.

The evening offers free tailgatethemed food, several televisions airing the Notre Dame vs. Clemson game and a cash bar. There will be a silent auction featuring gift baskets and gift cards, an online auction and live auction of more than 30 items.

The highlight of the evening will be the raffle drawing for a 2022 Sylvan Mirage 8520 LZ pontoon donated by Pro Wake Watersports as the first prize and $25,000 in cash donated by The Union Tool Corporation as the second prize.

Tickets are $40 for a single ticket or three for $100. Tickets will be available that evening or may purchased in advanced by contacting Kosciusko County Jail Chemical Addiction Program Coordinator

Metzger Property Services LLC. will coordinate the online auction as well as the live auction.

Live auction items include a 64gun Liberty cabinet, $7,000 crate of 4 Roses Bourbon, a meat bundle consisting of beef and pork along with a grill and freezer, tickets to the Nov. 19 Notre Dame vs. Boston College home game and a 3-D stadium box, a suite of Polywood Furniture, a rose gold diamond necklace, a registered puppy from Posh Puppy of Indiana and numerous other items.

The group has created a Facebook page “Huddle Up For The Hochstetlers.” A video will soon be on that page, telling the Hochstetlers’ story. Be prepared for a heart-wrenching story. Those liking that page will be kept up to date on auction items and other happenings. A GoFundMe account will also be set up.

All raffle donations or monetary donations are tax deductible.

Monetary donations can be made at various levels prior to the event. Each level offers various perks to the donor. Levels are: Arena Club, $1,000; Upper Deck Club, $2,500; 50 Yardline Club, $5,000; Touchdown Club, $7,500 and Hail Mary Club, $10,000.

These donations can be made payable to FOP Lodge No. 149, and mailed to P.O. Box 832, Warsaw, IN 46581. Include “Huddle Up” on the memo line. Venmo payments can be made to @FOP149 (under business) What’s it for: “Huddle Up.”

Event organizers include Courtney Jenkins, Heather Desenberg, Deb Carpenter, Allyson Damjanovic, Ashley Dillon, Kris Woodard, Jeff Ticknor, Dave Mayer and Sheriff Kyle Dukes.

Remember Matthew 24:35-36: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat. I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me ...”

Special Olympic athletes compete in Indianapolis

Special Olympic athletes from Kosciusko County recently competed in flag football and corn toss as part of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver games held Sunday, Oct. 2, in Indianapolis.

The EKS fall competitions are named in honor of the Special Olympics founder, Eunice Kennedy Shriver. These games are the second-largest annual sporting event for Special Olympics Indiana.

The flag football tournament was held at Brebeuf Preparatory School in Indianapolis. The team from Kosciusko County won first place in their flight.

Corn toss was played at Zionsville Middle School. The following athletes participated in the corn toss tournament: Norm McPeak, Wayne Momeyer, Jerry Davis, Scott Frush, Ruby French, Malika Wood, Billie Holtz, Christina Messer, Walter Holtz, Amy Morris, Sandy Hunter, Teri Hughes, Jim

Kussmaul, Robert Svinarich, Martha Sullivan, Morgan Swafford, Gale Vanator and Elizabeth Wabol.

Becky Walls, Kosciusko County coordinator for Special Olympics,

would like to thank flag football coach Steve DeGaetano and Robin Seitner for their help with the flag football team and would also like to thank veteran corn toss coach

Joe Baranowski.

Currently, bowling continues with Special Olympics, and team basketball and basketball skills will start late next month.

Warsaw Community Church to host Bible workshop

Warsaw Community Church recently announced that Scot Keen, director of Ethnos360 Bible Institute Online, will be presenting “One God, One Story,” Sunday,

PUMPKINS

Oct. 30, and Saturday, Nov. 12, at WCC, 1855 S. County Farm Road, Warsaw.

WELCOMELUNTEERS

VOLUNTEERS WELCOME

20-21-22, 2022

Through his presentation, Keen will lead participants through six sessions that focus on the Bible’s one overarching story and how individuals can find their place in that story.

Lunch and snacks will be provided at the free workshop.

In addition to his role as the

director of Ethnos360 Bible Institute Online, Keen has served as a professor and academic dean for Ethnos360 Bible Institute since 2003, and he serves as an adjunct faculty member at Dallas Theological Seminary. Keen earned a master’s in biblical studies and a doctorate in ministry from Dallas Theological Seminary, where he is currently pursuing a doctorate in Bible exposition. Previously, Keen served as a pastor at churches in Kentucky, Michigan and Texas.

Learn more and register at warsaw.cc/event/one-god-onestory.

Fall Choral Fest to be held Oct. 22

Classic Arts Programs and Grace College will be hosting a Fall Choral Fest at 7 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 22, at Winona Lake Community Church, 902 College Ave., Winona Lake.

Directed by Dr. Ardis Faber, this concert will feature world music and spirituals.

Performing groups include Classic Arts Community Chorale, Classic Arts Youth Chorale, Classic Arts Jazz Vocal Ensemble, Grace College Lancer Chorus, Brothers In Harmony, Soloist Moise Ngoumape and hand drums by Caleb Schuh.

A presentation, “Pumps for Africa,” will also be featured at the event.

Tickets are available for purchase at classicartsprograms.com/ tickets.

“Halloween Happenings” set

The Town of Silver Lake and the Silver Lake Lions Club are sponsoring “Halloween Happenings” Monday, Oct. 31.

This outside event will be held at Memory Park, located one block south of the stoplight in Silver Lake on SR 15. Hours will be from 5:30-7 p.m.

Treats will be handed out to all children while supplies last. Trick or treat hours in Silver Lake will also be held from 5:30-7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 31.

Special exhibitor: Indiana’s Rembrandt, Steve Creighton

This week we are highlighting the phenomenal artwork of Steve Creighton. He is exhibiting at Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery and you must make time to stop by and see his talent on display. Calling the work special is not complimentary enough. I often refer to him as Indiana’s Rembrandt, and you will see what I mean when you visit his exhibit.

Creighton grew up near Warsaw and attended Valparaiso University, where he majored in both art and business. He continued his art education with graduate courses at Indiana University.

He became enamored with art in grade school when an older cousin showed him a drawing he had made. Creighton immediately started drawing cartoons from the newspapers and has been drawing and painting ever since.

However, it wasn’t until he retired that he had time to devote to painting every day. He makes it a habit to paint for several hours every day, which is a testament to the awards he receives reflecting a high quality of work.

After experimenting with other mediums, Creighton realized he could not match the look he got with oil paints; thus, he devoted himself to using oil paints exclusively.

His viewers often tell Creighton they liken his work to Rembrandt. We agree. Next week, we will compare his work to Rembrandt’s, so be on the lookout for the intriguing column.

Creighton’s still life and landscape oil paintings have won nu-

merous awards, including multiple Best of Show distinctions. His paintings are held by collectors throughout the United States.

He is a member of Oil Painters of America and Fort Wayne Art Guild, a “Signature” member of the National Oil and Acrylic Painters’ Society and a member of Hoosier Salon.

He has been selected for recent juried honors in organizations such as National Oil and Acrylic Painters’ Society, Oil Painters of America, Hoosier’s Salon, OPA Eastern Regional Exhibition and Biennial National Art Exhibition.

His art has been published in numerous magazines and newspapers and his portfolio includes many honors.

According to stevecreightonart. com, “Painting is about solving problems of light, design, value, form, color and edges. It requires an initial concept … an original idea for a particular painting.”

Creighton says still life painting is his passion and provides him with all the visual concepts and challenges that fascinate him. When asked which painting is his favorite, he said it is always the one he just finished. When asked what books he would recommend for a beginning artist, Creighton said any books by the authors/ artists Jeff Legg and David Leffel are quite beneficial. To see Steve Creighton’s work online, visit stevecreightonart.com.

Events

• Lakeland Art Association: Annual Fall Members Show in November, open to all members of Lakeland Art Association. For more information, contact Kelly Shoemaker at kellyjoshoemak-

er@gmail.com.

• Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery: Artist Steve Creighton will be exhibiting from Oct. 10 through Dec. 30. The gallery is open 8 am to 4 pm Monday through Friday.

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

If you would like to offer someone a free subscription to this weekly column, send a request including the email address to mcdar7@gmail.com.

is his passion and provides him with all the visual concepts and challenges that fascinate him. His work is currently on display in the Warsaw Town Hall Gallery. Photo provided by Darla McCammon.

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Anita Garman Dunlavy Accomplished Pianist

Anita Garman Dunlavy, 87, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2022, at her home.

Born Oct. 18, 1934, in Warsaw to D.B. and Nellie (Huffer) Garman, she grew up in Claypool. She taught high school several years at South Charleston, Ohio. Anita lived at various times in Indiana, at Rising Sun, Connersville, Lafayette and Irish Lake; in Ohio at Springfield, Perrysburg and Delphos; and at Rockford, Ill.

A graduate of Claypool High School (1952) and Manchester College (1956), she was a member of Tri Kappa Sorority. Passionate about education and an avid reader, Anita served on the boards of the Delphos Public Library and the Western Ohio Regional Library District, as well as a North Central High School Evaluation of the Delphos Public Schools. After moving to Fort Wayne, she volunteered as a tutor for The Literary Alliance.

Anita was a dedicated patron of the arts, including having memberships in The Fort Wayne Philharmonic, the Fort Wayne Museum of Art and the Stratford Shakespeare Festival in Stratford, Ontario. An accomplished pianist, she greatly enjoyed classical music.

Anita was preceded in death by her husband, Thom D. Dunlavy, in 2002 and is survived by two sons, Shawn (Julie Foust) of Delphos, Ohio, and Drew (Sheri) of Fort Wayne; one daughter, Reagan of Peoria, Ill.; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and five nieces and nephews. Her sister, Wilda Gene (Garman) Marcus; brother, Robert Lee Garman; sister-in-law, Martha Jane (Dunlavy) Mitchell; and two nephews preceded her in death.

Burial in Oaklawn Cemetery, North Manchester. Her memorial service will be at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, at the chapel of Towne House Retirement Community, 2209 St. Joe Center Road, Fort Wayne. Visitation will begin one hour prior.

Memorial gifts may be made to Matthew 25 or The Literacy Alliance, each in Fort Wayne.

Condolences may be emailed to mckeemortuary.com.

Norma Jean Amstutz

Norma Jean Amstutz, 85, Goshen, died Oct. 10, 2022.

She was born April 5, 1937. On Sept. 16, 2000, she married Herbert Amstutz. He preceded her in death July 18, 2021.

Surviving are her stepchildren, Beth Pletcher, Nappanee, Norman Amstutz, New Paris, Kevin Amstutz, Syracuse, Philip Amstutz, Milford, and Keith Amstutz, Nappanee; and eight stepgrandchildren.

Services were held Oct. 15 at

Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen. Burial was in South Union Cemetery, Nappanee.

Wayne K. Baker

Wayne K. Baker, 91, rural Mentone, died at 12:30 p.m. Oct. 8, 2022.

He was born April 6, 1931. On Nov. 25, 1951, he married Bonnie L. Reese; she survives.

Also surviving are his children, Michael Baker, Auburndale, Fla., Dennis Baker, Mentone, Patty Francissen, Davenport, Fla., and Rob Baker, Mentone; nine grand-

children; six great-grandchildren; and a sister, Linda Murphy, Silver Lake.

Services were held Oct. 14 at King Memorial Home, Mentone. Interment was in Harrison Center Cemetery, Etna Green, with graveside military honors performed by the American Legion of Warsaw.

Marylin R. Brannock

Marylin Roberta Brannock, 85, Warsaw, died at 9:55 a.m. Oct. 7, 2022.

She was born March 7, 1937. On Oct. 20, 1973, she married Dennis D. Brannock; he survives.

She is also survived by a son, Robert Brannock, Warsaw; daughters, Melissa Strand, Greencastle, and Margaret Foecke, Canyon City, Colo.; and two grandchildren.

Marylin’s life was celebrated privately by her family. RedpathFruth Funeral Home, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

M. Joan Clark

M. Joan Clark, 82, Warsaw, died Oct. 8, 2022.

She was born May 19, 1940. On Jan. 2, 1965, she married Robert E. Clark. He preceded her in death Jan. 22, 2015.

She is survived by a son, Chad M. Clark, Henderson, Nev.; and several nieces and nephews.

Services were held Oct. 13 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapel, Warsaw. Private burial was in Stony Point Cemetery.

Owen Cobbum

Owen Kay Cobbum, 86, Syracuse, died Oct. 6, 2022.

He was born March 30, 1936. On Nov. 24, 1966, he married Saundra Kay Jester. She preceded him in death Nov. 10, 2019.

Surviving are daughters, Cindy Parent, Fort Wayne, Cathy Ticen, Terre Haute, and Christy (Pat) Downey, Fort Myers, Fla.; son, Craig Cobbum, Annapolis, Md.; and 13 grandchildren.

Services were held Oct. 13 at Owen Family Funeral Home, Syracuse. Final interment was in Syracuse Cemetery.

Danny Vernon Damron

Danny Vernon Damron, 73, Warsaw, died Oct. 11, 2022.

He was born Jan. 17, 1949. On March 10, 1967, he married Mary Ann Mullins; she survives.

Also surviving are his children, Angela Stage, Danny Damron II, Paul Damron and Matthew Damron; 11 grandchildren; eight greatgrandchildren; sisters, Brenda Mullins and Rhonda Mullins; brother, Gary Damron; and nieces, nephews and many friends.

Services were held Oct. 14 at the Warsaw Family Worship Center. Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

John Lee Gilbert

John Lee Gilbert, 84, Winamac, formerly of Warsaw and Plymouth, died at 1:30 p.m. Oct. 8, 2022.

He was born Jan. 5, 1938.

He is survived by a daughter, Shelly Sue.

Services were held Oct. 13 at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw. A graveside service was held at Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw, with military rites conducted by members of the American Legion Post 49, VFW Post 1126 and active-duty members of the Army Honor Guard.

Stephen Cary Gilbert

Stephen Cary “Steve” Gilbert, 81, North Manchester, died Oct. 7, 2022.

He was born Nov. 21, 1940. On Nov. 19, 1960, he married Sharon K. Tyner. She preceded him in death Sept. 8, 2021.

Surviving are daughters, Gayle Lynn Goshorn, Churubusco, and Deborah Sue Gilbert, Mentone; sisters, Jeanne Poppink, Holland, Mich., Amy Gilbert, Vancouver, British Columbia, and Gay Gil-

bert Wolfe, Washington, D.C.; three grandchildren; and a sister-in-law, Marilyn Hall.

Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22, at Fairview Cemetery, CR 300E and CR 1000N, North Manchester. McKee Mortuary, North Manchester, is in charge of arrangements.

Penny L. Groves

Penny L. Groves, 62, Leesburg, died Oct. 7, 2022.

She was born July 3, 1960. She married Rick Groves, who preceded her in death.

She is survived by a son, Collin Groves; two grandchildren; her mother, Anna Clay; brothers, Steven Hill, Jeff Clay and James Clay; a sister, Brenda Barefoot; and her loyal canine companion, Sid.

A simple graveside service took place Oct. 17 at Leesburg Cemetery.

Aaliyah N. Hagerman

Aaliyah Nikole Hagerman, 1, Albion, died Oct. 7, 2022.

She was born Nov. 6, 2020.

Surviving are her parents, Henry and Kendra (Duesler) Hagerman, Albion; a brother, Brendon Hagerman, at home; a sister, Paisley Hagerman, at home; grandparents, Scott and Mindy Duesler, Cromwell, and Ellen and Joe Hagerman, Ligonier; great-grandparents, Georgia and Don Piercet, Ligonier, Gene and Lexi Duesler, Cromwell, and Thomas and Joyce Wright, Wawaka; and aunts, uncles and cousins.

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

Sue Harman

Sue Harman, 76, Warsaw, died Oct. 10, 2022.

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

Robert W. Heckathorn

Robert W. “Bob” Heckathorn, 94, Nappanee, died at 2:10 a.m. Oct. 7, 2022.

He was born Nov. 2, 1927. On Nov. 2, 1948, he married Ruth Edeburn.

Surviving are his children, Barbara Furkin, Cincinnati, Ohio, Gary Heckathorn, Eldon, Mo., Ken Heckathorn and Steve Heckathorn, both of Nappanee; eight grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; a sister, Esther Snarey, New Brighton, Pa.; and many nieces and nephews.

Services were held Oct. 12 at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee. Burial was in South Union Cemetery, Nappanee.

Rev. Merle Ross Holden

Rev. Merle Ross Holden, 76, Nappanee, died Oct. 10, 2022.

He was born Dec. 13, 1945. On April 3, 1971, he married Judith Grace Swihart; she survives.

He is also survived by a sister, Sharon Vaughan, Angola; a brother, Richard Holden, Lake James; and many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

Services were held Oct. 14 at New Life Christian Church, Waterloo. Feller and Clark Funeral Home, Waterloo, was in charge of arrangements.

Karen M. Madsen

Karen M. Madsen, 66, Ligonier, died Oct. 9, 2022.

She was born April 20, 1956.

Surviving are brothers, Mike and Tim Madsen.

Services were held Oct. 13 at Broadway Christian Church, Kimmell. A cremation committal took place at Legacy Cremation and Remembrance Center, Ligonier. Yeager Funeral Home, Ligonier, was in charge of arrangements.

Patricia Majewski

Patricia Majewski, 84, Warsaw, died Oct. 12, 2022.

Arrangements are currently pending at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw.

Myracle Jade Manns

Myracle Jade Manns, 7, Argos, died Oct. 11, 2022.

Arrangements are currently pending at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw.

Eric Morgan Martin

Eric “Stick” Morgan Martin, 43, Bremen, died Oct. 7, 2022.

He was born July 11, 1979. On May 21, 2011, he married Gretchen Balka; she survives.

He is also survived by a daughter, Maren Lou Theresa Martin; his parents, Mike and Lolly Martin, Bremen; sisters, Heather Dell, New Paris, and Amy Goodspeed, Land O’Lakes, Fla.; his father- and mother-in-law, Greg and Beth Balka, Bremen; brother-in-law, Clinton Balka, Nappanee; three nieces; a nephew; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 26, at Mishler Funeral Home, 2030 SR 331, Bremen, A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 27, at Nappanee Missionary Church in the chapel, 70417 SR 19, Nappanee.

Ingeborg Mathews

Ingeborg Mathews, 93, Milford, died Oct. 7, 2022.

She was born Aug. 8, 1929. On Nov. 25, 1948, she married Paul Mathews. He preceded her in death Sept. 8, 2002.

Surviving are her children, Michael Mathews and Jane Hunsberger, both of Milford; four grandchildren; a stepgrandson; nine great-grandchildren; three nieces; and a nephew.

Services were held Oct. 12 at Mishler Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Milford. Burial was in Milford Cemetery.

Jacob A. Miller

Jacob A. Miller, 98, Nappanee, died at 8:13 p.m. Oct. 12, 2022.

He was born Nov. 8, 1923. On Nov. 9, 1944, he married Marry Ann Miller. She preceded him in death Feb. 8, 1993.

Surviving are his children, Simon Miller, Milford, Ida Mae Schwartz, Nappanee, Daniel Miller, Nappanee, Alvin Miller, Bourbon, Sarah Winans, Tekonsha, Mich., Clarnence Miller, Topeka, Katie Ann Metz, Sanford, Fla., Andrew Miller, Nappanee, Harley Miller, Bremen, William Miller, Bremen, Anna Miller, Nappanee, and Mary Slabaugh, Nappanee; 62 grandchildren; 167 great-grandchildren; 12 great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Anna Miller, Nappanee; and a sister-in-law, Mary Otto, Kokomo.

Services were held Oct. 16 at the Matthew Troyer residence in Nappanee. Burial was in Weldy Cemetery, Nappanee.

Gladys Mullins

Gladys Mullins, 88, South Whitley, died at 2:33 p.m. Oct. 9, 2022. She was born Dec. 22, 1933. On Oct. 15, 1951, she married Cleadis Mullins. He preceded her in death Aug. 12, 2004.

Surviving are daughters, Carolyn Beckman, Leipsic, Ohio, and Kathy Wheeler, Pierceton; 14 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; seven stepgrandchildren; a sister, Pearlie Trust, Lambert, Ky.; and a son-in-law, Ed Sklenar, Huntington.

Services were held Oct. 13 at Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley. Burial was in South Whitley Cemetery.

Janet L. Murphy

Janet L. Murphy, 65, Warsaw, died Oct. 10, 2022.

She was born April 9, 1957. On Jan. 15, 1977, she married Michael L. Murphy. He preceded her in death July 1, 1997.

She is survived by her companion, Vern Zartman, Warsaw; her mother, Glenna Werstler, Pierceton; a daughter, Jessica Puga, Mentone; Continued on page 9

sisters, Peggy Juillerat, Larwill, Brenda Landrigan, Pierceton, and Lisa Fitzgerald, Warsaw; a brother, Terry Werstler, Larwill; five grandchildren; and one great-grandson.

A celebration of life was held Oct. 17 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw. Interment was in Hillcrest Cemetery, Pierceton.

Larry Douglas Ousley

Larry Douglas “Doug” Ousley, 71, Pierceton, died Oct. 7, 2022.

He was born June 17, 1951. On Oct. 16, 1971, he married Rebecca (Kemery) Ousley; she survives.

Also surviving are their sons, Jason Douglas Ousley, Huntington, Chad Allen Ousley, Loon Lake in Columbia City, and Jeffrey Lee Ousley, Pierceton; four grandchildren; brothers, Troy Ousley, Leesburg, and Ellis Ousley, North Webster; and a sister, Stella Faye Shepherd, Pierceton.

Visitation was held Oct. 11 at McHatton Sadler Funeral Chapel, Pierceton. A private family graveside service was held at Hillcrest Cemetery.

Nicholas D. Prathaftakis

Nicholas “Nick” Dwayne Prathaftakis, 65, Osceola, died Oct. 11, 2022.

He was born March 25, 1957.

He is survived by a son, Nate; and sisters, Marsha Nemeth, Osceola, and Lisa Grabarek, Warsaw.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Palmer Funeral Homes-River Park Chapel, South Bend, was in charge of arrangements.

Scott Sleighter

Scott Sleighter, 97, Pierceton, died Oct. 8, 2022.

He was born Sept. 13, 1925. On Aug. 29, 1948, he married Norma Jean Sleighter. She preceded him in death July 22, 1995.

Surviving are sons, Michael Sleighter and Richard Sleighter, both of Pierceton; a grandson; and three great-grandchildren.

Services were held Oct. 15 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Pierceton. Burial was in Hillcrest Cemetery, Pierceton.

Nicholas A. Smith

Nicholas A. Smith, 70, Pierceton, died Oct. 5, 2022.

He was born Oct. 30, 1951.

He is survived by his wife, Victoria Smith, Pierceton; his children, Matthew Smith and Kimberly Smith, both of Pierceton; a granddaughter; a sister, Theresa Grosswiler, Pierceton; one niece; and two nephews.

A memorial service was held Oct. 14 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Pierceton. Private burial was in St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church.

Rosie J. Smith

Rosie J. Smith, 47, died Oct. 3, 2022.

She was born Nov. 21, 1974.

Surviving are her children, Kelly Kidd and Amanda Kidd, both of Cromwell; two grandsons; brothers, Billy Smith, Warsaw, and Robert Halsey, Cromwell; and sisters, Marie Halsey, Cromwell, Margaret Wells, Willshire, Ohio, Minnie Furney and Sherrie Blankenbeckler, both of Syracuse.

A private cremation committal will take place at Legacy Cremation and Remembrance Center, Ligonier. The family will host a service in Rosie’s honor at a later date.

Yeager Funeral Home, Ligonier, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Dale Stidams

Dale Stidams, 61, Pierceton, died Oct. 7, 2022.

He was born Sept. 15, 1961. On May 10, 1987, he married Sherry Sheets; she survives.

Also surviving are his children, Jeremy Gause, Joni Smith, Janelle

Bartels and Joshua Mix; 11 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; siblings, Joe Stidams, George Stidams, Wayne Stidams, Pat Koher, Billie Jo May, Rex “Buren” Powell and Liza Jones; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Services were held Oct. 12 at Owen Family Funeral Home, North Webster, with military honors.

Rose Ann Stover

Rose Ann Stover, 94, Goshen, died Oct. 4, 2022.

She was born March 16, 1928. On Feb. 14, 1947, she married Donald Ray Stover. He preceded her in death Sept. 2, 2017.

Surviving are her children, Gary Stover, Syracuse, Vickie Newman, Osceola, and Randy Stover, Versailles, Ky.; six grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and siblings, Eileen Rhodes, Celina, Ohio, and Mary Cook, Sydney, Ohio.

A celebration of life will be held at noon Friday, Oct. 21, at Ligonier United Methodist Church, 466 Townline Road, Ligonier. Family and friends will be received one hour prior to the service at the church. A private burial will take place at Oak Park Cemetery, Ligonier. Yeager Funeral Home, Ligonier, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Rose’s family will be establishing a library in her honor at The Laurels. Those attending the service are invited to bring a book to donate in her honor.

Marjorie E. Troutman

Marjorie E. Troutman, 96, Fort Wayne, formerly of Syracuse, died Oct. 12, 2022.

She was born Aug. 1, 1926. On Jan. 22, 1949, she married Robert F. Troutman, who preceded her in death in 2010.

Surviving are daughters, Julie Gore, Powell, Ohio, Barbara Hamaker, Marion, and Nancy Westfall, Fort Wayne; a son, James Troutman, Arlington Heights, Ill.; 14 grandchildren; 20 greatgrandchildren; sisters-in-law, Patty Troutman and Caroline Perrey Campbell, Fort Wayne; and many nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian burial was held Oct. 18 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Fort Wayne. Burial was in Catholic Cemetery, Fort Wayne. DO McComb and Sons Funeral Home — Covington Knolls, Fort Wayne, was in charge of arrangements.

Michael John Wais

Michael John “Mike” Wais, 76, Leesburg, died Oct. 10, 2022.

He was born in 1946.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Wais; daughters, Amy Selle, Carolyn Mathis and Brenda Wais; and two grandchildren.

Visitation was held Oct. 18 at Owen Family Funeral Home, North Webster.

Diane Weaver

Diane Weaver, 81, Syracuse, died Oct. 9, 2022.

She was born Aug. 3, 1941. On Sept. 2, 1967, she married Donald Weaver, who preceded her in death in 2011.

She is survived by a son, Rick Weaver, Syracuse; daughters, Cristi Green, Fort Wayne, and Jodi Clay, Syracuse; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; a sister, Pam Myers, St. Joseph, Mich.; a sister-in-law, Betty VanderReyden, Goshen; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 6, at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse.

Linda P. Wilson

Linda P. Wilson, 77, Syracuse, died Oct. 9, 2022.

Donations can be made to New Hope Pet Rescue, 72555 CR 29, Syracuse, IN 46567.

Freaky 5K to benefit Cancer Care Fund

Registration is open for the Freaky 5K Family Halloween Run/Walk on Oct. 29, hosted by Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital to benefit the Kosciusko County Cancer Care Fund.

The race starts at the K21 Health Services Pavilion, 1515 Provident Drive, at 9:15 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, and is a timed

event open to racers, runners and walkers. Participants are welcome to get in the Halloween spirit by running in costume. Prizes will be given to the top finishers and favorite costumes.

Freaky 5K participants can register onsite the day of the race from 8-9 a.m. for $30 or online until Oct. 24 for $25 at

P UBLIC A UCTIONS

Stutzman Auction 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 19. Heartland Enterprise, 69605 CR 21, New Paris.

Online Real Estate Auction 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 19, 4021 Balley Lane, Warsaw. Open house 5:30-6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 13. Renovated split-level home with two-car garage. Three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, 1/2-acre corner lot. bidmetzger.com

Consignment Auction 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 22, 1013 N. Long Drive, Syracuse. Antiques, furniture, old toys, memorabilia, tools, lawn and garden equipment and more. Also accepting consignments. Salazar Auction Service, (574) 4576754.

Coin Auction

10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 22, 338 S. Walnut St., Etna Green. Auction located at the Heritage Park Community Building. Watch for auction signs. Approximately 300 lots. For a pre-auction itemized list of coin lots, contact Ball Auction, (574) 342-8299,

B IRTHS

Hochstetler, Nappanee, are the parents of a daughter, Samantha Grace, born at 8:04 a.m. Oct. 7, 2022, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 8 pounds, 1 ounce, and was 20 inches long.

Kaitlyn Esther Mast

David and Loretta (Bontrager) Mast, Nappanee, are the parents of a daughter, Kaitlyn Esther, born at 8:46 p.m. Oct. 8, 2022, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces, and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Austin Kyle Schwartz Marcus and Sheryl Schwartz, Nappanee, are the parents of a son, Austin Kyle, born at 3:14 a.m. Oct. 9, 2022, at Goshen Hospital. He weighed 8 pounds, 4.8 ounces, and was 20 1/2 inches long.

Amy Ruth Slabaugh

James and Susan (Wagler) Slabaugh, Bourbon, are the parents of a daughter, Amy Ruth, born at 4:18 a.m. Oct. 10, 2022, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 7 pounds, 7 ounces, and was 19 1/2 inches long.

or Tony Tribalski, (574) 549-2430. Ball Auction & Realty Inc. ballrealtygroup.com

Personal Property Auction 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 27, 9317 West Hepton Road, Nappanee. Two miles west of Nappanee on US 6 to CR 100S, then 2 miles to Hepton, east 1/2 mile. John Deere 4400 and D15 Allis Chalmers tractors, snowblower, skid loader, fishing boats and more. Lawn and garden equipment, tools, Coachman motor home, 4-wheeler and more. LC Auctions & Real Estate LLC, (574) 773-0222.

Kurtz Public Auction Real estate, 9:30 a.m. (CST); personal property, 10 a.m. (CST) Saturday, Oct. 29. Manufactured home with two bathrooms, three bedrooms, three-car attached garage, aboveground pool and pool house on 1 acre. Appliances, furniture, stereo, rugs, collectibles, shop, lawn and garden. 2003 Jaguar X-type, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 2006 Ford F-150, 2005 Dodge Dakota, 2000 Harley Davidson and more. Go to ballrealtygroup.com

runsignup.com/Race/IN/Warsaw/Freaky5KFamilyHalloweenRunWalk.

Proceeds go to support the Kosciusko Cancer Care Fund to benefit local community members fighting the disease.

Learn more about the Cancer Care Fund at k21healthfoundation.org/cancer-care-fund/.

for pictures. (574) 342-8299.

Allen and Kathryn Streby Estate Auction

4 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 2, personal property, 6 p.m. real estate. Open house 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 18, 8947 E. 500N, North Webster, south of North Webster on SR 13 to Armstrong Road (CR 500N) then east to property. 21.86 acres, three tracts including 1 acre with 1,368-squarefoot house with unfinished basement. Utility tractor, bush hog, mower, miscellaneous tools, household items, furniture. Hahn Auctioneers.

Silent Bid Real Estate Auction

Phone bidding will end at 4 p.m. Monday, Nov. 7. Starting bid $350,000. Real estate address: 9317 W. Hepton Road, Nappanee. House on 5.6 acres with two pole barns and stocked 1-acre pond. Ranch house with three bedrooms, 1.75 bathrooms, two-story recreation room. Open house by appointment. To place bid or for information call LC Auctions & Real Estate.

KLA learns about law enforcement and judicial system in Kosciusko County

On Tuesday, Oct. 4, the Kosciusko Leadership Academy cadets heard from three speakers who covered different parts of the judicial and law enforcement systems in Kosciusko County.

The Honorable Christopher Kehler, Superior Court 4 judge, presented an overview and brief history of Kosciusko County’s judicial system, which dates back to 1836. Judge Kehler handles domestic and civil cases.

Moderator Allyn Decker spoke on the Jail Chemical Addiction Program. Kosciusko County Jail inmates must apply and be accepted into this voluntary recovery program. The classes include anger management, parenting classes, fitness programs and addictions counseling.

JCAP also helps the inmates in achieving certificate programs

and their high school equivalency diploma. Since the start of the program in 2018, there have been 80 participants with more than 50% success rate. Judge Kehler agreed that JCAP helps stop the cycle of drug-related crime.

Police Chief Scott Whitaker spoke about the challenges and opportunities facing the Warsaw Police Department and also about how Kosciusko County officers work together with his team. He also noted the Warsaw Police Department has around 40 officers and is striving to build a more diversified team.

The next KLA session will cover human services in Kosciusko County and will be held Tuesday, Oct. 18, at the K21 Health Pavilion, 1515 Provident Dr., #160, Warsaw.

Samantha Grace Hochstetler Luke and Dianna (Bontrager)

R EPORT

Court News

Small Claims

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

Warsaw Health System LLC, dba Kosciusko Community Hospital v. Glenn Alexander, $1,113.87; v. Kellen McCarty, $679.08

SAC Finance Inc. v. Sarah L. Davis, $6,499.26; v. Jonathan L. Harness and Norma J. Harness, $9,240.23

Glenbrook Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Michael P. Hackworth, $7,594.13; v. Lisa G. Hall, $5,957.74; v. Angeline A. Keene, $4,731.30

One Advantage LLC v. Phillip A. Konieczny, $2,734.62

CL Benz Company LLC v Beth Ann McGurn, $2,200; v. Miles Price, $7,230.95

PK Housing and Management Co., managing agent of Milford Meadows v. Ashley T. Riggs, $7,328.09

Vanderpool Law Firm PC v. James Schwartz, $2,280

Law Office of Travis J. McConnell v. Seth Stonebraker, $2,000

Total Recovery Services Inc. v. Lonnie D. Turner, $4,191.08

Civil Collections

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

PCA Acquisitions V, LLC v. Kimber L. Baker, $9,684.55

Discover Bank c/o Discover Products Inc. v. Angelica M. Castro, $7,080.66; v. Deborah A. Chrisman, $3,682.59; v. Byron Grubbs, $2,678.58; v. Earl J. McKenzie, $6,673.02; v. Kay D. Schoeff, $12,446.56

Mariner Finance LLC v. Melissa M. Cupp, $4,839.69

LVNV Funding LLC v. Jose Esqueda, $2,308.69

Kosciusko Community Hospital v. Juan Flores, $19,288.75; v. Juan Flores, $19,473.75

UHG I, LLC v. Timothy Jansma, $1,968.81

Spring Oaks Capital SPV, LLC v. Cathrine Jarvis, $2,757.32

Credit Acceptance Corporation v. Joshua J. Kats, $10,700.64

Jeffrey H. Gaerte v. Leon Oswalt,

$378,005.86

Lake City Bank v. Jenna Roehning, $1,084.26

Credit Service International v. Jessica K. Scherer, $601.67

Evictions

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

Huntington 112 LLC v. Autumn Maciejack, $10,000

Little Crow Lofts LLC v. Rayven McKinney, $4,788.21

Sanchez Enterprises LLC v. Steve Perry and Smith Summer $4,921.07

South Bend Management Co. v. Andrew Secor and Cassandra Secor, $4,220.81

Mortgage Foreclosures

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

Freedom Mortgage Corporation v. Arron D. Trusty, $157,134.06

Superior Court III

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

Speeding — Teddy L. Shiver, Syracuse, $160.50; Sierra P. Brown, Warsaw, $160.50; Anthoney I. Ulrey, Warsaw, $160.50; Adrienne R. Drook, Leesburg, $160.50; Edgar Brito, Winona Lake, $160.50

Failure to register — Phillip J. Fletcher, Syracuse, $160.50; Kellie J. King, Warsaw, $160.50; Logan M. Johnson, Warsaw, $160.50; Kenneth E. Fryback, Warsaw, $160.50; Oliver L. Baronick, North Webster, $160.50

Failure to provide vehicle registration certificate, failure to register — Phillip L Konieczny, Claypool, $185.50

No valid driver’s license, speeding — Juan Bustamante, Warsaw, $185.50

No valid driver’s license

— Braigan L. Niles, Leesburg, $160.50; Dustin E. Gordon, Etna Green, $160.50; Tycowin Brown, Silver Lake, $160.50; Lavon D. Yoder, New Paris, $160.50

Failure of occupant to use safety belt — Maria J. Ozenbaugh, North Manchester, $25; Stephen T. Walsh, Winona Lake, $25; Loretta

D. Page, Claypool, $25

Operating with expired plates — Philip B. McKenzie, New Paris, $160; Betsaida A. Castillo Rios, Nappanee, $160

Owner allows dog to stray beyond owners premises — Mark J. Sullivan, Syracuse, $25; Tammy L. Shively, Cromwell, $25

Operating a motor vehicle without financial responsibility — Karisma L. Frantz, Warsaw, $185.50

Disregard lighted signal — Christopher R. Dausman, Claypool, $160.50

Operating a motor vehicle without financial responsibility, failure to register — Edwin J. Holstein, Roann, $210.50

No valid driver’s license — Anayeli O. Aguirre, Warsaw, $160.50; Francisco G. Gutierrez, Warsaw, $160.50

Disregarding an official traffic control device, failure to signal for turn or lane change — Henry R. Rodriguez Borrero, Winona Lake, $185.50

Learner’s permit violation — Corinna M. Reyna, Warsaw, $160.50

Speeding, learners permit violation — William R. Huerta, Warsaw, $185.50

Driving while suspended — Daniel E. Lyons, Cromwell, $185.50

Following too closely — Osama Y. Askar, Warsaw, $160.50

Driving left of center — Jose Nunez, Warsaw, $160.50

Disregarding stop sign — Johnathon E. Mishoe, Warsaw, $160.50

Marriage Licenses

The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court Ann Torpy: Brady-Hershberger Kristoffer M. Brady, 42, Milford, and Susie Hershberger, 31, Milford Williams-Walker

Samuel M. Williams, 25, Claypool, and Amanda Walker, 27, Warsaw

Shireman-Schwartz

Dustin E. Shireman, 30, War-

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saw, and Patricia A. Schwartz, 29, Warsaw Hall-Glenn Scott Hall Jr., 33, Warsaw, and Erica Glenn, 35, Warsaw Scott-Valdez

Alex M. Scott, 30, North Webster, and Celeste Estefhania Valdez, 28, North Webster Kent-Weed Jerry Kent, 44, Claypool, and Ashley Weed, 41, Claypool Warwick-Wildman Stephen W. Warwick, 34, Newport, N.C., and Janie Marie A. Wildman, 33, Warsaw Sweeny-Case

Malachi Sweeny, 29, Warsaw, and Adrianne Case, 28, Warsaw Gunkel-Smith

Kyle S. Gunkel, 22, Warsaw, and McKenzie N. Smith, 21, Warsaw Eldridge-Slater

Marq S. Eldridge, 29, Leesburg, and Andria S. Slater, 26, Leesburg Howard-Johnson Johnnie Howard, 37, South Whitley, and Katarzyna Johnson, 41, Warsaw Warstler-Welsh Justin D. Warstler, 33, Mentone, and Breanne K’Lynn Welsh, 26, Mentone Marshall-Schultz Tracy Marshall, 51, Warsaw, and Jessica Schultz, 46, Warsaw Beatty-Bower Isaac N. Beatty, 21, Winona Lake, and Anna Bower, 22, Winona Lake

Hight-Schneider

Ted J. Hight, 28, Warsaw, and Breanna E. Schneider, 27, Warsaw Hahaj-Croy Joseph Hahaj, 34, Cromwell, and Ariana Croy, 25, Cromwell Prescott-Mansfield Zachary J. Prescott, 29, Milford, and Gabrielle L. Mansfield, 26, Milford

Weteska-Scott

Brian G. Weteska, 49, Warsaw, and Michele A. Scott, 55, Warsaw

Hershberger-Kennedy Casey Hershberger, 27, Warsaw, and Kimberly B. Kennedy, 24, Warsaw Pfefferle-Barth Bradley S. Pfefferle, 26, Cromwell, and Michelle A. Joleigh Barth, 23, North Webster Farmer-Gaff

Terrance C. Farmer, 27, Syracuse, and Jada A. Gaff, 24, Syracuse

Brumblow-Schooley Marchus Brumblow, 27, Claypool, and Nicole M. Schooley, 28, Claypool

Cox-Moshier Nicholas Cox, 32, Syracuse, and Shannen Moshier, 31, Syracuse Brady-Hershberger Kristoffer M. Brady, 42, Milford, and Susie Hershberger, 31, Milford Williams-Walker Samuel M. Williams, 25, Claypool, and Amanda Walker, 27, Warsaw

Marriage Dissolutions

The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in the Kosciusko Superior and Circuit Courts:

Milhorn — Micah C. Milhorn, Warsaw, and Bradley J. Milhorn, Watauga, Tenn. Married: Sept. 21, 2007. Separated: June 1, 2020. There are two minor children.

Rodak-Holland — Jacob Rodak, Leesburg, and Hope Holland, Leesburg. Married: June 2020. Separated: Oct. 1, 2022. There are two minor children.

Armey-Krumwied — Kimberly Armey, Warsaw, and Zachary Krumwied, Warsaw. Married: Nov. 13, 2010. Separated: no date listed. There are two minor children.

Pulliam-Byall — Talia B. Pulliam, Syracuse, and Marc E. Byall, no location listed. Married: Aug. 14, 2021. Separated: June 29, 2022. There are two minor children.

Ford — Chantel E. Ford, Silver Lake, and Steven B. Ford, Rochester. Married: July 9, 2017. Separated: Aug. 2022. There are three minor children.

Woods — Jayne E. Woods, Syracuse, and Caleb L. Woods, Kimmel. Married: Oct. 30, 2010. Separated: June 15, 2022. There are two minor children.

Cody — Brenda Cody, Claypool, and Thomas Cody, Mentone. Married: June 16, 1984. Separated: Sept. 28, 2022. There are no minor children.

Swick — Eddie Swick, Akron, and Elena Swick, Palatine, Ill. Married: Oct. 29, 2005. Separated: no date listed. There are no minor children.

Vo-Butcher — Ashley N. Vo, Warsaw, and Arista A. Butcher, Plymouth. Married: Nov. 8, 2021. Separated: June 27, 2022. There are no minor children.

When you’re comparing plans ...

Look for coverage that helps pay for major services.

Look for coverage with no deductibles.

Shop for coverage with no annual maximum on cash benefits.

Simply put — without dental insurance, there may be an important gap in your healthcare coverage.

on a fixed income.

Kreger-Flynn

Jerry F. Kreger, 63, Pierceton, and Dawn D. Flynn, 60, Pierceton Morgan-Wadkins David D. Morgan, 51, Claypool, and Kendra L. Wadkins, 37, Silver Lake

Mulldune-Rich Tyler L. Mulldane, 33, Warsaw, and Jessyca L. Rich, 33, Warsaw

Kuta-Ruiz

Jonathan D. Kuta, 45, Syracuse, and Trisha L. Ruiz, 51, Syracuse Skeans-Lane Kyle I. Skeans, 23, Winona Lake, and Brooke M. Lane, 23, Warsaw

Lopez-Alexander Corey A. Lopez, 28, Warsaw, and Samantha L. Alexander, 24, Warsaw

Slone-Harding Mark D. Slone, 41, Warsaw, and Alaina Harding, 42, Warsaw McDonald-Anxo Logan L. McDonald, 30, Akron, and Lakin R. Anxo, 27, Akron

Hochstetler-Slabaugh

Danny R. Hochstetler, 24, Ligonier, and Kerri A. Slabaugh, 20, Nappanee Turner-Carroll

Dakota S. Turner, 24, Warsaw, and Katie M. Carroll, 20, Elkhart

Smiley-Martin

Garrett R. Smiley, 25, Pierceton, and Shelby Martin, 24, Pierceton

Smith — Jesse Smith, Pierceton, and Jennifer Smith, Fort Wayne. Married: May 8, 1999. Separated: May 1, 2022. There are no minor children.

Luke — Cheryl L. Luke, Syracuse, and Travis J. Luke, Syracuse. Married: Oct. 28, 1995. Separated: Aug. 26, 2022. There are no minor children.

Auer — Dawn M. Auer, Warsaw, and Jay A. Auer, Warsaw. Married: July 20, 2001. Separated: Jan. 16, 2022. There are no minor children.

Lewis — Georgena L. Lewis, Mentone, and William Lewis, Corinth, Miss. Married: March 5, 2016. Separated: May 29, 2022. There are no minor children.

Auer — Denise Auer, Warsaw, and Happy Auer, Warsaw. Married: May 15, 2007. Separated: no date listed. There are no minor children.

Harmon — Michelle J. Harmon, Warsaw, and Eddie V. Harmon, Warsaw. Married: Sept. 18, 2019. Separated: June 10, 2022. There are no minor children.

Rieder — Clayton Rieder, Warsaw, and Angela Rieder, Warsaw. Married: May 23, 2009. Separated: Oct. 1, 2022. There are two minor children.

Wagoner — Barbara A. Wagoner, Etna Green, and Thomas D. Wagoner II, Etna Green. Married: July 7, 2018. Separated: Sept. 16, 2022. There are no minor children.

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

Moving Sale A088

ONE DAY MOVING SALE. Men’s and women’s clothes/accessories, household items, desk, bookshelf, clay pots. 2841 E. 700 N., Leesburg, Sat., Oct. 22.

Construction C100

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

Exterminating C140

Insurance C200

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

Garage Sales A070

HO MODEL RAILROAD COLLECTION for sale. Engines, cars, trees, buildings, stuff. Call 574-536-7204.

Protect your home from pests safely and affordably. Pest, rodent, termite and mosquito control. Call for a quote or inspection today 844-394-9278

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

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

TV Satellite C400

DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/21/23. 1-866-479-1516

MORE

AT&T Internet. Starting at $40/month w/12-mo agmt. 1 TB of data/mo. Ask how to bundle & SAVE! Geo & svc restrictions apply. 1-855-364-3948

HughesNet - Finally, super-fast internet no matter where you live. 25 Mbps just $59.99/mo! Unlimited Data is Here. Stream Video. Bundle TV & Internet. Free Installation. Call 866-499-0141

Discount air travel. Call Flight Services for best pricing on domestic & international flights inside & from the US. Serving United, Delta, American & Southwest & many more. Free quote! Have travel dates ready! 844-951-2014

Vivint. Smart security. Professionally installed. One connected system for total peace of mind. Free professional installation! Four free months of monitoring! Call to customize your system. 1-833-841-0737

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-417-1306

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable pricesNo payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 855-761-1725

John Burnau

Local veterans to be honored

Employment E030

BURNWORTH

Appliances

U.S. 6 • Ligonier

Part-Time Employment E050

Work Wanted E080

DON’T MISS THIS

Safe Step walk-in tub, massage jets and shower wand, heat and circulating water. Save thousands, just hook up plumbing and electric. $19,500. 574-253-1131

Articles For Sale P030

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936

Want To Buy P280

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

WALNUTS. Starting pay 18 cents

pound. Starts October 5th, ends November 7th. Mon., Wed. & Thurs.

Sat. 8-3; closed Thurs., Oct.

Liberty Sewing Circle has teamed up with Kosciusko County Senior Services to show appreciation for local nominated veterans.

A Threads of Valor quilt presentation will be held Nov. 9, at the Senior Activity Center/Pete Thorn Gym, 800 N Park Ave., Warsaw.

Doors will open at 10 a.m. and activities will begin at 10:30 a.m. Posting of the flag will be by The

American Legion Post 49 Honor Guard. Guest speakers will follow. Handcrafted quilts will be presented to each veteran nominee by members of Liberty Sewing Circle.

Due to limited seating, RSVP with the number in your party prior to Oct. 31 by calling Patti at KCSS office, (574) 267-2012; Marsha Huffman, (574) 594-2021; or Kathy Snell, (574) 268-8827.

Health Aids P140

Attention oxygen therapy users! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. Free info kit. Call 877-929-9587

Health/Fitness P150

VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50

Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00. 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-445-5928 Hablamos Español

Misc. Merchandise P200

Tues. & Fri. Joseph Borkholder, 534 Ply-Goshen Trl., Nappanee, IN, 574-773-3344 ext. 2.

Indiana students to get free FAFSA filing help at College Goal Sunday

Financial aid professionals from across Indiana will be volunteering at 39 sites to help college bound students and their families open the door to financial aid during College Goal Sunday. The event is set for 2 p.m., Nov. 6.

Locally, College Goal Sunday will be held at Goshen College Union Building, 1700 S. Main St. and Ivy Tech Community College, 2545 Silveus Crossing, Warsaw.

day, but offers two events during the year. If our assistance gives students a better chance at education beyond high school and less debt, we’re fulfilling our mission.”

What Students Should Bring

Paying top cash for men’s sportwatches! Rolex, Breitling, Omega, Patek Philippe, Heuer, Daytona, GMT, Submariner and Speedmaster. Call 833-603-3236

Put on your TV Ears & hear TV w/unmatched clarity. TV Ears Originaloriginally $129.95 - now w/this special offer only $59.95 w/code MCB59! 1-888-805-0840

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Down + Low Monthly Pmt Request a free Quote. Call before the next power outage: 1-855-948-6176

The Generac PWRcell solar plus battery storage system. Save money, reduce reliance on grid, prepare for outages & power your home. Full installation services. $0 down financing option. Request free no obligation quote. 1-877-539-0299

CLASSIFIEDS WORK

The free program assists Indiana students in filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The FAFSA form is required for students to be considered for federal and state grants, scholarships and federal student loans at most colleges, universities and vocational/technical schools nationwide.

Students should attend College Goal Sunday with their parent(s) or guardian(s) should bring completed 2021 IRS 1040 tax returns, W-2 Forms and other 2021 income and benefits information. Students who worked should also bring their income information.

TRANSPORTATION

Misc. Auto W100

Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. FastFREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

The FAFSA must be filed by April 15 to be eligible for Indiana financial aid. One of many reasons College Goal Sunday is so important is because many families perceive the form to be too complicated and time consuming to complete. In less than one afternoon after College Goal Sunday, students and their families can get free help and file the form.

“Indiana is first in the Midwest and fifth in the nation in providing need-based financial aid to Hoosier students. But students must file the FAFSA to claim those funds, which go a long way in making the costs of college manageable for students and families,” said Indiana Commissioner for Higher Education Chris Lowery. “If you are considering education beyond high school, filing the FAFSA should be your first step, so you don’t leave money on the table. You don’t have to go it alone, either, as College Goal Sunday offers one-on-one help from financial aid experts.”

Now in its 34th year, College Goal Sunday has helped more than 94,000 Indiana students and families complete the FAFSA properly and on time. College Goal Sunday is a charitable program of the Indiana Student Financial Aid Association.

College Goal Sunday

Doubles The Help Offered

“The event on Nov. 6 will be the first of two College Goal Sunday events ISFAA is offering this FAFSA filing season,” said Bill Wozniak, co-chair of College Goal Sunday. “We hope all Hoosiers take advantage of College Goal Sunday, file the FAFSA, and get one step closer to fulfilling their educational goals.”

“Students who don’t complete their financial aid paperwork properly and on time are often very disappointed when they find out how much financial aid they lost,” said Wozniak. “This is why the Indiana Student Financial Aid Association not only continues to provide College Coal Sun-

Students 24 years of age or older may attend alone and bring their completed 2021 IRS 1040 tax return, W-2 Form or other 2021 income and benefits information. Students and parent(s) are encouraged to apply for their U.S. Department of Education FSA IDs at studentaidgov before logging in to the event.

Volunteers will walk through the online form line-by-line and answer families’ individual questions as needed. All sites offer FAFSA online capabilities and many have Spanish interpreters. A complete list of sites is available at CollegeGoalSunday.org.

Attendees May Win A Scholarship

Students may also win one of five $1,000 scholarships. Students who attend College Goal Sunday and submit a completed evaluation form will automatically be entered in a drawing for a $1,000 scholarship. The winners will be notified in spring and scholarships will be sent directly to the higher education institution selected by the winnings students.

21st Century Scholars Benefit

21st Century Scholars are income-eligible students who sign a contract in the seventh or eighth grade promising they will graduate from high school, meet grade point requirements fulfill a pledge of good citizenship and apply for college financial aid. Upon high school completion, scholars who have fulfilled the commitment and demonstrate financial need receive state funds to help cover their college tuition and fees up to eight semesters at eligible Indiana public colleges or an equal dollar amount at eligible Indiana private colleges. To fulfill their pledge scholars must submit a completed FAFSA form on time, College Goal Sunday can help.

Program Is A National Model College Goal Sunday originated right here in Indiana and is now a national model. Following Indiana’s example, College Goal Sunday events organized by more than 34 sates have opened doors to higher education for hundreds of thousands of students all over the country.

For more information about College Goal Sunday visit CollegeGoalSunday.org.

On Business

Tek

Dave’s Electric, Heating & Cooling, Inc.

CTB, Inc.

On the cover

Oswego

Wawasee

in

118 years of making memories at

Patona Bay Marina and Resort

In 1904, a teenager from Indianapolis named George H. Paton joined his friend’s family on a summer camping trip to Kalorama Park on Lake Tippecanoe.

What he experienced that summer would shape not only his own life, but the lives of future generations of the Paton family, who 118 years later continue to own and operate Patona Bay Marina and Resort.

“He fell in love with the lake and its possibilities,” said his grandson, George M. Paton. “It was a different way of life from Indy.” George H. realized the lake is more than just a place: it is a lifestyle. The Patons call it “lake life,” but it can mean different things for the thousands of families who have ventured to Patona Bay’s shoreline.

The lake is a place of adventure and excitement for children, unaware they are creating memories that will stay with them for a lifetime: the thrill of the first fish on the line; skidding over the waves on skis or an inner tube behind grandpa’s boat; or the smoky sweetness of s’mores from the fire.

All too soon, they are bringing their own children to the lake and feeling work and stress melt away, leaving in the wake a different set of priorities.

“Family time and togetherness,” said Paton. “There is a magic about it. People with families get to play together.”

George H., who as a paint salesman had much of his summers off, set himself to the task of bringing this magic to more people by making it more affordable. He started by renting boats. In 1909 he saw an ad for the first Evinrude outboard motors — “Throw away your oars” — and that summer he began selling them at $65 each.

Around the same time, he also developed a relationship with the Schrock family, who started Starcraft and had a house on Lake

Tippecanoe. George H. sold their fishing boats into the 1930s. Over 100 years later, the Patons are still a Starcraft dealer, with much of its sales coming from pontoon boats.

In 1928, Patona Bay resort opened, offering camping spaces to those unable to afford their own lakefront cottage. Rental cabins would be added later, in the 1950s.

In 1935 the addition of a passenger boat afforded guests sightseeing rides around the expansive, pristine lake. Stops at the time included Rowlette Grocery on the north shore and Stoney Ridge Hotel and the Arcadian Ballroom on the south shore.

Lake Tippecanoe is the deepest natural lake in Indiana and one of the cleanest. There is actually a higher volume of water in Tippecanoe than nearby Lake Wawasee, which means it is the last lake to freeze over in the winter.

When George H. first visited, there were no roads around Tippecanoe. Mail and deliveries were made via boat on the lake. Without an outboard motor, fishermen would often hitch from one side of the lake to the other by tying on to a steamboat, which left tow ropes hanging behind as it made its daily rounds around the lake’s approximately 1,200 acres.

Just as the automobile made the countryside more accessible, speedboats added a new dimension to lake life with their arrival in the 1930s. Patona Bay offered sightseeing tours and had its own excursion boat, catering to campers and local businesses.

But it was not until after World War II that more regular folks were able to afford their own speedboat, and water skiing also enjoyed a spike in popularity. Patona Bay, George M. explained, was instrumental in promoting this exciting pastime.

As the lakes’s popularity expanded, so did Patona Bay’s services. “We had the ability to help more people accomplish their dreams,

“ said Paton. More people wanted to know how they could rent or buy a boat. “We could help with that.”

In 1946, the first marina was built. To this day, marina operations include rentals, sales, service and storage. “We do everything the customer may not want to do themselves,” said Paton. “We put the boat in and out of the water, wash the bottom and clean them out.”

Patona Bay technicians specialize in motor repair on all makes and models, working year-round. They are trained at the factories to handle warranty issues on Mercury, Honda and Evinrude.

In 1945, there was a single building serving the marina and campground. Now there are more than 120 campsites as well as eight cottages for rent. The marina has expanded to six buildings to handle sales service and storage needs. Altogether, Patona Bay Ma-

rina and Resort encompasses 35 acres and includes a gradual, sandy beach.

This expansion has served a single purpose: to match the equipment to the needs of the visitors, so they may realize their own vision of lake life.

Five successive generations have all added to that dream. As sales manager Lynn Hornyak said, “They’ve been around for 118 years. One family with one dream of promoting the lake life.”

“People come back and recite stories and instances from 50 or 60 years ago that made a difference in their life,” marveled Paton.

“They have such a crystal clear memory, like it happened yesterday.”

Patona Bay Marina and Resort is located at 162 EMS T33 Lane in Leesburg.

To contact the marina, call (574) 453-3970. To contact the resort, call (574) 453-3671. For more information, visit patonabay.com.

Oswego Mini Mart and Cafe serves the lakes’ communities

Oswego Mini Mart and Cafe is nestled in the heart of the lakes community.

Located on Armstrong Road, it is located between Leesburg and North Webster. Close to the area’s lakes, Oswego Mini Mart has a convenience store and a cafe.

The convenience store has food, snacks and hot and cold drinks or basically anything to go. It also has hamburger meat, steaks and hot dogs, as well as beer and wine. The meat is locally grown.

“We have grab and go sandwiches, doughnuts and coffee to go,” said Raven Donovan, the store manager.

The cafe serves breakfast and lunch. The breakfast menu consists of eggs Benedict, French toast and pancakes. It also serves avocado toast, biscuits, waffles, biscuits and gravy and hash browns. The patty cake consists of two griddle cakes, two sausage patties with the option of blueberries and Nutella. It also serves corned beef hash with two eggs and toast or biscuit. Other specialities include the country benny, Big John’s bacon samich, the Ellsworth and the early riser.

“We have a lot of regulars,” said Donovan. “A lot of people don’t know we have a cafe here.”

The lunch menu includes daily specials. It offers three kinds of salad, including a chef’s salad. The quaint cafe also offers sandwiches and baskets. Breaded tenderloin, BLT club sandwich and chicken sandwich are on the menu. The baskets consist of corkscrew shrimp basket and chicken tender basket. The entrees include coleslaw, cottage cheese or fries. Seasoned fries are also offered.

Specialty burgers are also served in the cafe. The burgers include a copycat mac (like a Big Mac), Frisco melt, classic cheeseburger, patty melt, brunch burger and a breaded cheeseburger.

“We have fresh, hand-smashed burgers,” said Donovan.

Sides and extras include garlic cheese curds, onion rings, battered fries, cottage

cheese and coleslaw.

On Friday, the cafe serves fresh fish with chips and coleslaw. Dinner service is available Wednesday to Saturday.

The cafe offers dine-in and outdoor seating. It also offers carry-out. The cafe also does catering for parties of 50 or fewer.

“We do a lot of carry-outs,” said Donovan.

The cafe’s bar came from Holiday Lodge and was fully restored. The owner wanted it because it was part of history, said Donovan.

The owner is Steve Kesler and Roger Rapsavage is the general manager.

Kesler opened the business with the idea of having somewhere for locals to go, said Rapsavage.

“It’s a friendly environment,” he said.

“I’ve never had such good customers, an amazing group of people,” added Donovan. “We are the heartbeat of Tippy.”

Cafe Hours are 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. The kitchen closes at 2 p.m. Sunday, Monday and Tuesday and is open until 6:30 p.m. on the other days. There is plenty of parking in the front and back of the building.

A marina is located at Tippy Lake and it sells gas, has pontoon rentals, food and a snack shack with ice cream and snow cones, “right on the lake,” said Donovan.

Oswego Mini Mart and Cafe is located at 2757 E. Armstrong Road, Leesburg. For more information, call (574) 453-3359 or visit facebook.com/oswegominimart.

CTB works to improve global food supply

Even with more than 3,000 employees, approximately $1 billion in annual sales and facilities located around the globe, CTB Inc. retains a small business feel.

Its global challenge is to use innovation, new technology and acquisitions to meet the future demands of poultry, livestock and grain production as well as “help agricultural producers and processors become much more efficient to maintain a safe, sustainable, affordable and abundant global food supply,” said Mike Kissane, executive vice president and chief administrative officer.

Based in Milford, CTB is the parent of a number of companies, including Chore-Time, Brock and PigTek, all also located in Milford. The company has proven to be a market leader in grain, protein, processing and nonagricultural industrial equipment.

Founded as Chore Time Equipment in 1952, CTB became a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway in 2002. CTB continues to acquire companies to help grow and develop their business and invest in their future.

For grain production, CTB’s Brock Grain Systems offers “solutions with larger storage capacities, higher production, increased efficiency and more accurate performance for managing harvested grain,” said Kissane.

These products include: storage bins, grain dryers, bin sweeps, bucket elevators, catwalks, towers and conveyors.

Chore-Time poultry products include systems for feeding, watering and environmental care, electronic controls and software. Kissane noted these products can be used for “growing broilers and turkeys for meat as well as raising breeder birds to produce broilers” to keep up with the increasing demand for poultry.

According to Kissane, egg production is also a priority. As a company, it strives to optimize the health and productivity of poultry through systems that allow finite resources, such as feed, water and energy, to be used more efficiently.” It does this through products such as poultry care systems, egg collectors, environmental control systems and manure handling systems.

CTB’s PigTek division is helping to meet the growing demand for pork. It continually finds ways to improve show and pig care systems, environmental control systems, electronic feeding, animal identification and sorting systems, air quality systems and integrated management software.

Though not located in the Milford area, one of CTB’s investments is in the food processing and packaging industry. Over the years, CTB companies have expanded to “offer solutions for processing and packaging a variety of foods, such as poultry, seafood, fruit, vegetables and convenience foods,”said Kissane.

CTB also supplements its primary focus on agriculture to offer products in the industrial equipment category. These are oil containment systems, precision-molded plastic components and industrial storage and buildings. Additionally, the company manufactures air cleaning and scrubbing systems for agricultural use as well as high-end stalls, feeders, architectural doors and windows for the equine market.

“One of the hidden gems is our people. Our employees are the strength behind the business,” Kissane emphasized.

CTB recruits top talent, works to empower its employees by creating opportunities to help them be successful and promotes from within whenever possible.

Kissane noted many of CTB’s employees share the same characteristics of its customers. Both possess integrity, humility, a strong work ethic, a sense of service and a belief in doing the right thing.

Supporting local small business as well as the nearby communities remains a goal of CTB. It also believes in reaching out to those in need. CTB recently put that belief into action when CTB made a significant financial support pledge toward the future home of Cardinal Services in Warsaw.

Cardinal serves more than 4,300 people each year, providing a full array of services to adults with intellectual disabilities and families who have small children with needs.

Customers are family at Crop Fertility Specialists

Successful farming in the 21st century requires keeping up with the latest breakthroughs in science and technology and modern farm practices and maintaining a profitable business.

For more than 50 years, Crop Fertility Specialists has been a valuable resource for northern Indiana farmers. With a total focus on the crop input retail business, CFS provides leading corn and soybean technologies — products and services helping farmers maximize returns — while also offering a full lineup of lawn care and gardening products.

The company has eight retail outlets stretching from Illinois and Indiana to Ohio. CFS services the surrounding counties of Kosciusko, Whitley, Noble, Marshall and Elkhart with the rural Milford plant being the one farthest north.

CFS is located at the intersection of CR 900N and Old SR 15, south of Milford. Proudly independent and family-owned for over 75 years, CFS emphasizes solid relationships with its farmers’ prosperity as well as customer care.

“Our mission is to treat every acre as if it were our own,” said Max Grady, general manager. “We care for the land, and we have a genuine care for the people we deal with.”

The one-on-one personal relationships with each customer have earned Grady and CFS the respect of producers and the community it serves.

Grady has a vast background in agriculture spanning his whole life. He has worked with CFS for 26 years and managed CFS for the past 16 years. A certified crop advisor, he has been dealing with crops and their protection for more than 45 years.

The knowledge and access to practical information Grady and CFS provide customers sets the business apart from its competitors. It is a yearlong process; company representatives stay with their customers from the time of planting to harvest.

“The service comes with the sales,” he said. “If there’s a problem, the same guy who stood in your driveway and recommended or sold it to you is going to be the same guy who answers the phone to solve it.”

Customers are not just an order number to CFS; they are family. Each employee is highly trained and certified to assist every customer’s individual wants and needs. CFS maintains this by consistently sending employees to training seminars and conferences to keep them up to date on the latest technology and best practices in the industry.

Grady also emphasized CFS is “not just for large commercial farmers.” Anyone can tap into the expertise of the CFS staff and purchase grass seed at a faction of the cost of one of the big box stores.

“A yard is just a small cornfield,” said Grady.

Beyond providing excellent products and exceptional service, CFS is dedicated to community involvement. In September 2020, CFS and parent company, KOVA Ag Products Inc., donated $3,000 to Wawasee High School FFA.

“We want to keep kids interested in agriculture,” said Grady.

The next generation is also ensuring the future of the KOVA Ag team, with eight children of team members joining the company. For another 50 years to come,” said Grady, “we will be 100% committed to agriculture and agriculture only.”

CFS believes additional value is offered to customers through the KOVA ag team. The CFS staff is linked to additional services, such as finance, crop insurance and risk management. From the field to the front lawn, with the many resources available, there is no need or problem CFS cannot fulfill or fix.

Business hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, visit the Milford location, call (574) 658-4158 or visit ekova.com.

Bringing top quality water into your home or business

Until the early 1990s, Mike Chesnut worked with Warsaw municipal water, and thus understood the condition of the water better than most.

After resigning from his position, Chesnut decided to start his own water treatment company, One Call Water, for the purpose of serving residential, commercial and industrial areas. When he opened the business in January, 1991, he brought with him 15 years of experience in the industry.

This year, One Call Water is celebrating its 32nd year of business, helping meet the needs of clients throughout northern Indiana and southwestern Michigan.

Water is one of our most basic needs as humans. Our bodies are made up of 60% water, and we spend a surprising amount of time interacting with it on a daily basis. We bathe in it, drink it, cook with it and even find great entertainment playing in it on hot afternoons.

In recent years, many health organizations have stressed the importance of having cleaner water than municipal water options. Although there are multiple reasons why municipal water is considered substandard, two in particular are fairly popular: the existence of old, run-down water pipes and the addition of harmful chemicals, like fluoride, for the supposed benefit of those who use it.

High-quality, pure water does more than make a difference between good tasting water and the kind that makes you wish you had a soda instead. It means that your water isn’t overloaded with limescale-creating minerals like calcium and magnesium.

The quality of your water also affects your body. Some benefits of drinking pure water can include healthier skin, sleep improvements, better food digestion and absorption, higher mental acuity and good nutrient transportation.

“I started One Call Water because of the quality of the water in this area — hard, rusty water,” he said. “We want to provide

the best quality water for all our customers.”

At the outset, Chesnut and his wife, Margaret, ran the business out of their home. It quickly outgrew that location, leading the Chesnuts to move the business to a shop in Syracuse. Eventually they purchased a building a few miles south of that location, near Conklin Bay. It proved to be a good location for their services, which includes water softener salt and bottled water delivery.

“It has grown from a startup business to selling and renting softeners and drinking water systems, reverse osmosis equipment and iron and sulfur filters,” Chesnut said. “Currently, we have a service area that includes a 100-mile radius around Syracuse, encompassing Fort Wayne, Wabash, southwestern Michigan and everywhere in between.”

Chesnut’s desire — and highest satisfaction — comes from making his customers happy. Whether they get a call from a longtime customer or a potential customer looking to improve the flavor of their water, One Call Water’s ultimate goal is to provide the best possible service.

“My favorite part of the business is our customers,” he said. “We have made a lot of friends over the years. We provide a quick response to each and every customer’s need in a timely manner and a competitive price.”

One Call Water always strives to give not only the best service, but also the best products.

“We partnered with Hague Quality Water in Columbus, Ohio, for their patented water treatment systems,” explained Chesnut. “While most other companies are assemblers of water softeners, Hague is a manufacturer from the ground up, and it is all American made. They have a unique system that is not sold by any other supplier.”

Regardless of the issue, their products are made to solve any water issue. Their WaterMax treatment systems can be custom-

ized for city or well water.

They also have systems that address specific problems, such as too much iron, extreme hardness or dirt and sediment in the water. They also can neutralize acid and sulfur odors. Depending on the customer’s specific needs and desires, they can apply filters to a single faucet or to the entire house.

One Call Water is located at 11875 N. SR 13, Syracuse. Visit them from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.

You can find further information on their products by visiting onecallwater.com. To schedule a free quote, call (574) 457-5006.

Feel right at home at Bobi’s Shear Success

A warm welcome and atmosphere plus a bright and sunny salon greet customers at Bobi’s Shear Success in Milford.

Bobi’s Shear Success is a place where one can be treated as a longtime friend, even if it is your first visit.

Connecting with customers is a priority that has kept Bobi Doll in business on Main Street since opening her salon Dec. 23, 1992.

The business was first housed next door to its present location. But after Dr. Floyd Rheinheimer’s office became available six years later, she decided to move into bigger accommodations. Her salon is beside the town’s big parking lot and community building.

Doll’s husband, Dave, was instrumental in much of the demolition and remodeling of both of the salons. “He can do anything,” she boasted.

The beauty industry has grown and changed so much with such a variety of places to go, so she is grateful for the loyalty of her clients. She says there is a nice percentage of dear friends who have been with her for over 40 years.

Doll received her best training while working in North Webster at Jerri and Jill’s Salon. “The sisters modeled hard work, integrity, skill and artistry that taught me so much,” Doll said.

It’s easy to see why people enjoy spending time with Doll. A smile for every customer and her friendliness adds to the ability to pray with those who are hurting plus share in the joy of good things happening.

“I want to thank my Lord and Savior for placing me in a wonderful setting,” she said. “It’s great to watch our community come together to have fun or be serious in a time of need.”

Prayer is one of Doll’s greatest tools

and Milford is a very caring town, she said.

Doll knows her clients, not only how they prefer their hair but also about them as individuals. She makes every customer feel as if she has known them for a lifetime through friendly conversation.

Bobi’s Shear Success is a family place for women, children and men.

“It’s great to have kids come back after they’ve grown up to still get their haircuts and then their kids in the next generation,” said Doll. “Many people watched my own kids growing up in the salon, just a blink ago.”

Sadly, many wonderful long-term friends have passed away to their heavenly home that added so much to her friend list.

Doll enjoys her shop immensely and each person brings different circumstances to make it a very interesting occupation. She said loyalty is key to keeping small business doors open, “so thanks to all who patronize.”

The couple are active members of Wawasee Community Bible Church. The Dolls have a daughter, a son and their families.

Among the fine haircare products available at Bobi’s Shear Success are Paul Mitchell, Sexy Hair Concepts, Redken and Matrix.

Services include haircuts, highlights and color, perms and special occasion styles. She also has two tanning beds.

The salon is closed Sunday and Monday. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to noon Saturday. Generally appointments are necessary but walk-ins are possible.

Doll looks forward to making the acquaintance of new and existing customers where newcomers soon become friends.

For an appointment, call (574) 6589834.

Wysong Insurance — Small town family insurance agency with big city capabilities

When it comes to choosing an insurance company for your home, auto and life insurance needs, the relationship you have with your insurance agent is most important.

Stu and Shawnee Wysong, owners of Wysong Insurance Shoppe, 101 E. Van Buren St., Leesburg, understand the importance of the customer/agent relationship by creating an advisory service atmosphere for their potential and current clients.

Wysong Insurance Shoppe is an independent insurance agency that has been in operation for 35 years. It is an established and popular company with an excellent history of customer satisfaction.

“We want to be part of our community and be impactful by providing our clients with an outstanding insurance experience,” Stu and Shawnee said.

Stu, Shawnee and Nicole all take pride in being able to offer a personalized service to their customers. All three like to sit down with clients to discuss their needs, so they can recommend the best policies available.

This attention to personal service and detail has paid off, as Stu has had clients who have been with him for 35 years, leading up to him representing multiple generations of the same family.

One benefit a family-owned agency offers is clients are able to discuss issues with the same person who knows the area, who has a direct relationship with the companies they represent and are able to advocate on behalf of the client.

One benefit a family-owned agency offers is clients are able to discuss issues with the same person who knows the area, who has a direct relationship with the companies they represent and are able to advocate on behalf of the client.

Stu Wysong, the principal agent, has been licensed for over 35 years and has held a certified insurance counselor designation for over 25 years. Stu is actually a tenured CIC, a recognition achieved by less than 9 % of CICs nationally.

Shawnee Wysong (wife) and Nicole Jones (daughter), both licensed agents, have 10 years of experience at Wysong Insurance Shoppe. Both provide outstanding service, which creates a valuable connection between the customers and the insurance companies. They are always happy to help.

Wysong Insurance Shoppe is located on the main square in Leesburg in an old bank building the couple renovated during the pandemic. Wysong Insurance Shoppe is a small-town family agency. Their motto is “You can’t go wrong with Wysong.”

Wysong Insurance Shoppe has been newly appointed to represent Erie Insurance. Erie Insurance offers products for your auto, home, business, and life needs. They also represent Safeco and are a Progressive Platinum agency, meaning they can bundle your home and auto insurance.

As an established local insurance agency, the Wysong family strives each day to act with integrity, listen, educate and learn, provide solutions and generate positive energy for each of our new and current insureds. Our goal is always to help individuals, families and businesses select insurance policies that provide the best protection for their lives, auto and property.

“We also believe in providing clients superior products at competitive prices,” said Stu. “Our goal is always to help individuals, families and businesses select insurance policies that provide the best protection for their lives, well-being and property.”

Milford Animal Clinic puts pets first

Perhaps the greatest spokespersons for a business are its satisfied clients, and Milford Animal Clinic certainly has an abundance of those.

Leah M., for example, lavished the following praise on the clinic’s website: “If you are looking for a solid team who will always have the best interest of your pet in mind, this is the place. The level of empathy these staff have is remarkable. The environment there is awesome, no matter what circumstance you find yourself needing vet attention for. The exams are thorough, and you don’t feel like they are just trying to rush through another appointment. I couldn’t imagine taking my dogs anywhere else.”

Nathan M. succinctly echoed the kudos. “Awesome staff. It’s clear they love animals. Price is fair and they give appropriate advice. Reminders sent for needed pet medical care.”

Milford Animal Clinic is staffed by more than 20 employees, including three caring, licensed veterinarians who have their own menagerie of pets they tend to outside business hours.

Dr. Tom Smith, DVM Smith grew up on a farm in Cassopolis, Mich., and is going on 20 years of work in Milford since graduating from Michigan State’s College of Veterinary Medicine in 2001. He lives on a small farm in Milford where his family raises Katahdin hair sheep and commercial wool sheep. His specialties include small animal dentistry and small ruminant medicine and surgery.

Dr. Mark Yoder, DVM Yoder graduated from Purdue University in May 2013 with a DVM degree and began his veterinarian career in Milford that same month. His areas of interest are large animal reproduction and small animal surgery. He enjoys the rural life and has two dogs, four barn cats, a small herd of goats and a horse.

Dr. Kaytie Voirol, DVM

Voirol is a Milford native and graduated from Wawasee High School in 2010. She cleaned kennels at Milford Animal Clinic as a high school sophomore. She attended Michigan State University and graduated from its school of veterinary medicine in 2020. Her special interests are equine sports medicine and reproduction. She currently has two dogs.

The clinic offers a wide variety of veterinary services:

• Small animal medicine and wellness, including immunizations, radiology, isolation hospitalization, pain management, microchipping and issuing health certificates.

• Small animal dentistry, including routine exams and dental cleaning and polishing.

• Small animal surgery in a room equipped with heated surgery tables, inhalation anesthetic and oxygen machine, IV fluid pumps, vital statistic monitors and an autoclave for sterilizing instruments.

• Small animal 24-hour emergency services are offered for current clients.

• In-house lab services allowing testing results within 15 minutes of sampling.

• Large animal medicine for horses, cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, alpacas, llamas and whitetail deer. Specialties include herd health, immunizations, breeding soundness examinations, routine fecal examinations, lameness examinations, equine dentistry, diagnostic imaging and issuing health certificates.

• Large animal surgery, much of which is performed on the farm. Surgeries include castration, dehorning, hernia and laceration repair, caesarean section and enucleation.

• Large animal 24-hour emergency services are offered for current clients.

• Euthanasia, at the clinic or at the pet’s home, while ensuring the pet’s comfort and dignity.

Milford Animal Clinic is located at 913

N. Higbee St. (SR 15 North). The clinic’s hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to noon Saturday.

For more information, call (574) 6584126, email milfordanimalclinic@gmail.com or visit milfordanimalclinic.com.

Kosciusko Connect’s fiber internet is changing the community’s standards for online connections

Kosciusko Connect, a subsidiary of Kosciusko REMC, began with the recognition of a need for high-speed internet in its rural community.

KREMC noticed the gap between the current internet provided and the internet quality members of Kosciusko County needed. Grandparents wanted their grandchildren to be able to come over after school to do their homework online. Family members longed to connect with faraway loved ones over video calls, but didn’t have strong enough internet to carry on clear conversations. With the rise of remote work, many struggled to transition into working from home due to slow internet speeds. When the electric cooperative began its market study of the area’s needs, the response was strongly in favor of a fiber-optic network.

Kosciusko Connect was born from this desire to provide homes with necessary access to technology and communication. A fiber-optic network was the best way to do this because of the durability and long-lasting nature of fiber. These strands of glass would create a more reliable high-speed connection for the homes KREMC already powers. In December 2021, Kosciusko Connect turned on a new internet connection for its first member. From there, they grew steadily throughout 2022.

“Our Kosciusko Connect team, alongside KREMC, has made an impact on our community,” said Kurt Carver, president and CEO of Kosciusko REMC, “The services we are providing for our members will impact the quality of their lives for years to come.”

Recently, Kosciusko Connect celebrated an installment milestone. As of Aug. 25, they surpassed 3,000 KREMC members connected to their fiber-optic internet network. The achievement spurred a celebration among the company’s employees, including balloons, social media announcements and ice cream.

“Kosciusko Connect has connected over 3,000 members, an accomplishment we never imagined when we installed fiber for our first member in December 2021. Now, we’re on track to connect over 4,000 members by the end of 2022,” said Carver.

By 2023, KREMC’s entire service area is expected to be open for fiber installations. Currently, about 100 homes are connected to fiber every week, which is regularly celebrated at the KREMC facility. Eventually, Kosciusko Connect hopes to expand to homes in the Kosciusko County area that are not members of KREMC’s electric services.

“Bringing fiber internet to our community is a long-term process that requires dedication and consistency from our company,” said Curt Barkey, vice president of technology and broadband at Kosciusko Connect. “We continue to stay rooted to our original motive: to provide fast, reliable internet connections to the rural Kosciusko area,” he added.

One of the key features of Kosciusko Connect’s internet experience is Guardian, a tool that provides advanced network security and

parental controls. With Guardian, customers can prioritize devices on their network, view the security threats that are blocked daily, and protect younger internet users from explicit or dangerous content online. Guardian is designed to give customers full control of their network security, customization and parental guidance. Guardian is an add-on to the Kosciusko Connect app, which can be downloaded in the App Store or Google Play.

In addition to providing fiber internet, Kosciusko Connect is looking to offer new services to its customers. Starting this fall, members of Kosciusko REMC will also be able to sign up for Kosciusko Connect’s telephone service, which uses Voice over Internet Protocol to deliver a clear connection through the fiber network. The residential telephone plan will be offered at a discounted price to those already using Kosciusko Connect’s residential fiber internet.

Soon, Kosciusko Connect will introduce a new solution for affordable TV through their fiber internet. This tool will determine the customer’s preferences and favorite channels,

then provide the streaming package that fits their needs. It will offer the TV channels and content that customers watch regularly, without the expensive costs or hidden fees that are often part of a TV package.

As Kosciusko Connect gains awareness and support in their community, their internet services receive positive feedback from connected members.

“It energizes our team at Kosciusko Connect when we hear how the services we provide are changing lives,” said Tara Haack, manager of marketing and communications, “Fast, reliable internet is no longer a luxury. It makes essential services like health care and education more accessible. It provides professionals with the ability to work from anywhere. It allows families and friends who are separated by distance to stay connected.”

To learn more about what Kosciusko Connect is doing, visit kosciuskoconnect.com and visit its social media pages. If you would like more information about Kosciusko Connect contact Kyrsten Newlon at knewlon@ kremc.com.

Chubbie’s Pub-N-Grub and Joe’s Ice Cream offer tasty treats

Whether it is for lunch or dinner, a celebration after a special event or a sweet treat at the end of the day, Chubbie’s Pub-N-Grub and Joe’s Ice Cream — both located within the Wawasee Bowl complex — have you covered. Both provide customers with favorites seven days a week.

Chubbie’s Pub-N-Grub

Featuring quality food and portions at reasonable prices, Chubbie’s Pub-N-Grub is a destination for the whole family. Special emphasis is placed on freshness, with pizza dough being hand-tossed, hamburgers handpattied and the tenderloins made from fresh pork loin, pounded out and shaped.

Though there have been some changes, Chubbie’s continues to offer the same, great lunch specials customers have grown used to: Monday, half-price pizza; Tenderloin Tuesday with fried or grilled tenderloin; Thursday is Build-A-Burger Day; Friday is all-you-can-eat fish and shrimp.

On Saturday and Sunday, enjoy 69-cent wings during the day and prime rib Saturday night. Some specials are dine-in only, so call for availability.

Chubbie’s is open at 11 a.m. seven days a week. The kitchen closes daily at 9 p.m.

Wawasee Bowl

Wawasee Bowl has recently updated and expanded its game room arcade with the purchase of several new game pieces and the introduction of a redemption ticket arcade. It will continue to expand the arcade over the next few years.

Joe’s Ice Cream

Joe’s Ice Cream has been a community staple for more than 16 years, starting with one ice cream cooler and a small area for outdoor eating. The coolers have expanded to three, while the patio area has continued to grow. Joe’s waffle cones have become particularly popular over the years.

It’s a popular spot for families, with many popping by for a cool, creamy snack after work, attending baseball or softball games, spending time on the lake or completing yardwork. A stop at Joe’s has become a treat or reward

enjoyed by people of all ages. Youngsters are especially delighted when staff members add a few sprinkles to their cones or create a face.

There are 50 flavors of hand-dipped ice cream to chose from at Joe’s, along with milkshakes, a variety of sundaes and vanilla and chocolate soft serve, which can receive an additional flavor burst of injected syrup.

Among its variety of flavors are key lime, Marion blackberry, orange pineapple, cookies and cream, chocolate-covered cherry, carrot cake, rainbow sherbet, turtle PB cup, salted caramel, candy play dough, raspberry chip, cheesecake, birthday cake, cake batter, Milky Way, red velvet, Superman, cappuccino, grasshopper, cotton candy, s’more, chocolate and vanilla.

Favorites through the years have remained consistent, however: chocolate chip cookie dough, lemon custard, cake batter and pecan.

There are 11 specialty sundaes available: banana bonanza; chocolate-covered strawberry; salty caramel; chocolate volcano; Oreo butter; Reese’s hot fudge; peanut butter and jelly; red, white and blue; firecracker; dusty road; and s’more.

If in season, visitors can find strawberry shortcake, too. The strawberries are always fresh and shortbread is made in house.

Joe’s Ice Cream normally opens around spring break each year and will close when the weather turns colder, usually in October.

Joe’s Ice Cream also owns a portable cart, which is available to rent for graduations, weddings or parties — just pick out three flavors and Joe’s will man it.

For more information, contact Wawasee Bowl at (574) 457-3855.

Dockside Promotions & Apparel –– quality embroidery service

Dockside Apparel specializes in screen printing and embroidery. They are a family owned and operated company offering customized promotional items that are sure to exceed your expectations.

Dockside Apparel was started in 2020 by Pat Tranter to continue his career in the industry and fulfill the area’s need for an embroidery shop. Tranter has been involved in this industry since 1988 and has been around the printing business his entire life. He started working for his dad, learning how to create signs and immersing himself in the business operations.

He attributes a lot of Dockside Apparel’s capabilities to his knowledge base. “Being in the industry for over 30 years, I have the creativity and necessary resources available to me.” The amount of experience he has and the connections he has made along the way have been a influential part of Dockside Apparel’s success.

They pride themselves on their outsidethe-box thinking and ability to take on complex projects. Tranter believes their vast

product line is an element of Dockside Apparel that puts them over the top; not only can they customize items in many different ways, but they can also customize a variety of items.

He references the company’s range, stating, “we do anything from key chains to T-shirts, signs, hats or custom engravings. Anything that can be personalized, we can do it for any individual or any company.”

Tranter chose to open shop in Syracuse because he noted that not only were there no other local embroidery shops, but his business offered something unique that suited the area. The positive reaction Dockside Apparel has received from the community proves him right. “We get a lot of positive feedback. At least two or three times a week we hear ‘we needed a place like this’ or ‘this is great.’”

Dockside Apparel, located just a short drive from local lakes, has many lake life apparel and decorations. It was one of Tranter’s goals to target the lakegoers, which is another element of the shop that set

them apart. Tranter has made an effort to ensure they are a financially reasonable business to work with. They do not charge for design work, whereas many other companies do. They are so confident in their ability to meet your expectations and standards, additional

fees are not necessary.

Dockside Apparel has a very laid-back atmosphere for its employees and customers.

For more information, visit dk-promotions.com, call (574) 457-0217 or stop into the store at 1100 S. Huntington St., Syracuse.

Why choose Goshen Home Medical

Goshen Home Medical provides a wide variety of products that can enrich the quality of life for people who have different medical needs.

Goshen Home Medical doesn’t just distribute products, but has knowledgeable professionals on hand to help determine what the best fit would be for each person.

“Searching for the right home medical equipment can be frustrating, and even worse, choosing the wrong home medical equipment can be unsafe,” said Marlies Selent-West of Goshen Home Medical. “Often times, we see people who have purchased medical equipment either online or at a local retailer, just to find out the product doesn’t meet their needs.

“Our customer service specialists can help eliminate much of the stress by helping their customers find the equipment that is best for their situation and can also help determine what is covered and not covered by insurance. Plus, we offer free limited delivery within a 50-mile radius of Goshen with knowledgeable delivery technicians who can deliver the item(s) and offer proper instructions on use and care.”

Goshen Home Medical also stays up to date with the latest equipment while maintaining the highest level of quality. West said, “Many patients and their caregivers don’t realize there are many types of items that can truly help their medical needs and improve their quality of life at home.”

The showroom displays a large variety of products ranging from maternity to mobility and everything in between.

Goshen Home Medical has the newest technology for diabetics called Dexcom. The Dexcom G6 CGM System is a small, wearable sensor and transmitter that sends a person’s glucose numbers to a smart device or receiver every five minutes without finger sticks.

Goshen Home Medical’s team can assist customers in finding the perfect power

scooter or power chair as well as fitting them properly for the customer.

Goshen Home Medical also has certified fitters for orthopedic shoes and mastectomy prosthesis. Fitters work with each client by appointment and will occasionally do house calls.

Showroom hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Goshen Home Medical colleagues are diligent in ensuring the patient understands the products and are proud to be hands-on and make sure patients are receiving the best care, understanding and maximum benefit from the product. Several customers have commented they are impressed by the knowledgeable staff, as well as the highquality equipment they or their loved ones have used.

Items can easily be reordered when needed by phone, fax, website or now on Goshen Home Medical’s new phone app. Items can be picked up in-store, delivered or dropshipped.

“We’re trying to keep people in their homes for as long as possible,” West said. “We have ways to make their lives and their caregivers’ lives easier.”

Goshen Home Medical is part of Goshen Health System and has been serving the community for 48 years.

To learn more about Goshen Home Medical, visit the showroom or goshenhomemedical.com or call (574) 533-0626.

Clayton Garden Center provides top-notch quality and service

No one wants to get mediocre results after all the time spent turning soil, planting flowers, fruits and vegetables and pulling weeds.

To get the most of your efforts, with topquality products, expert advice and excellent service, Clayton Garden Center in North Webster is always ready to help.

Customers can expect expert advice from people who have produced results time and time again at Clayton Garden Center. “We are always looking for new and innovative ways of doing things, but we also have a good idea of what’s going to work, what will produce the flowers people want.

“Whether people are looking to make their outdoor spaces more appealing to the eye or create the garden of their dreams, we have the materials and experience to help them get the results they want,” said Ed Clayton, who along with his wife, Judy, owns the garden center.

At Clayton Garden Center, you will find unique garden products and varieties of plants not found in the box stores. You’ll find up-to-date, new and unique items in the garden industry the Claytons have discovered by attending trade shows and summer plant tours.

“We try to find products and brands sold strictly to independent garden retailers,” said Clayton.

“Most people really were getting into the garden industry because of COVID. They were home and they started taking to gardening more because they were staying home so much. We’ve enhanced everything we’ve done before. We’re right where we were before, except we’re selling a lot more,” he said.

COVID did change the way Clayton orders his products. “We buy early and take it early, so we have it on hand. It’s really rethinking how you order. Before you had to think six months out. Now you have to think about it from a year out,” he said.

Clayton Garden Center grows many of

its plants in its 10,000-square-foot greenhouse. “We work hard to ensure our customers have higher quality plants to start their gardens off on the right foot,” said Clayton. “We always try to have something new; there are always new colors or new varieties to try. We always have an excellent selection of perennials to choose from, so people can complement the colors of their homes or other outdoor spaces.”

Looking ahead to fall, Clayton Garden Center has grown hundreds of healthy mum plants for its customers and fall decor items are arriving daily.

Vegetable gardeners can buy individual starter plants or seeds to start their garden each spring with a great selection available.

The expert advice people get here really makes a difference in gardens all across the area. Among the specialties at Clayton Garden Center are the hanging baskets. Literally hundreds of baskets are grown each spring, meaning every customer can find the right plant.

Everything needed to landscape your home or office can be found at Clayton Garden Center as well. The center has plenty of stock trees and shrubs ready to plant. Bulk grass seeds, bagged mulches and soils are also on hand.

Revitalize an existing lawn or start a new lawn with a complete line of lawn and garden solutions found at Clayton Garden Center. You can find Bonide products as well as a line of Jack’s Water Soluble fertilizer.

For those looking to add a special touch to an outdoor area, Clayton Garden Center has an exciting line of birdbaths, birdhouses, ceramic pottery and other garden decor items. “The decorative items are gaining in popularity as people add to their gardens and backyards,” said Clayton. “Bird feeders attract all kinds of attention and we carry a high-quality bird seed, which will keep them coming back for more.”

Don’t forget Clayton Garden Center in the winter months. Staff members enjoy

helping people pick out just the right fresh Christmas tree. The center has been a local favorite for many years with Fraser firs, fresh homemade evergreen wreaths, roping and garland, poinsettias, fruit baskets and decor.

The outdoor garden center now boasts a new greenhouse. The outdoor garden area is now more open and has a whole new look.

With high-quality products and a knowledgeable staff ready to give excellent advice, it’s no wonder Clayton Garden Center customers come not only from the

Northern Lakes area, but well beyond. “We get a lot of new customers who said a friend referred them to us and that makes us feel good,” he said. “I think people still appreciate great service and you just can’t get that everywhere.”

Clayton Garden Center is open 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Extended hours are offered in the spring.

The garden center is located at 7185 N. SR 13, on the north side of North Webster. For more information, call (574) 834-2249.