the Paper - Kosciusko County Edition - December 28, 2022

Operation Read launches several new programs

What would it be like to be 70 years old and unable to read?

When a man in his 70s could not read, he was tutored by a volunteer with Operation Read. When it came time for his birthday, he received a birthday card.

“He had never learned how to read. But he was able to read the birthday card,” said DeeAnna Muraski, CEO and executive director of Operation Read, her eyes tearing up.

It’s one of the many success stories Operation Read has been able to accomplish.

Formerly called Kosciusko Literacy Services, Operation Read provides free books and tutoring for adults and children. KLS was formed 22 years ago.

This year, the organization rebranded, changed names, started new programs and hired a new director.

“The name literacy was creating a barrier for the demographic we try and serve,” said Muraski. “Children and adults who cannot read do not know what literacy means. So, we took this chance to freshen up our logo and new name. We came up with something fun for kids and easy to remember.”

The financial ramifications of illiteracy are staggering.

“Not being able to read drains our economy,” she said. “Illiteracy costs American taxpayers an estimated $20 billion each year. School dropouts cost our nation $240 billion in social service expenditures and lost tax revenues.”

Illiteracy has become such a serious problem in the country that 44 million adults are now unable to read a simple story to their children.

Operation Read launched several new programs this year, too, to combat the problem:

• “Book Boogie.” The program offers prizes and incentives for children to read at North Webster Elementary School, with more than 160,000 pages read since September.

• Operation Read: Reads! is a program for children living in poverty.

• Operation Read’s cutest reader contest a fundraiser encouraging kids to take photos of themselves reading their favorite books to win prizes.

The organization, located in a classroom at North Webster Elementary School, is filled with books for all ages.

“Operation Read covers the full life cycle by providing books to newborns at the hospitals and memory and puzzle books to senior citizens,” noted Muraski, who took over as director earlier this year. “Everything we do is free for the community.”

Operation Read also helps children and adults who are in poverty by providing books and tutoring to those financial need in our community. Between

46% and 51% of American adults have an income well below the poverty level because of their inability to read.

“Seventy percent of low-income fourth graders cannot read at even a basic level,” she said. “So, we want to help those parents and their children.”

Operation Read is funded by grants and donations. Its mission is simple: To encourage the lifelong love of learning through reading.

“It is not just books and tutoring,” said Muraski. “We are providing critical life skills through our books and tutoring. We want also to bring the fun back to reading so it is fun and they look forward to reading a book.”

To donate or volunteer, visit operationreadusa.org or call Muraski at (574) 267-5380.

Animal lover rescues one dog at a time

“When I was a volunteer at the animal shelter in Warsaw, my heart broke for all the dogs that were surrendered to the facility by their owners,” stated Suzanne Abel, Warsaw.

“Those dogs were members of someone’s family. Some of them would shut down totally at the shelter. Others were so frightened they appeared aggressive. Ten years ago, the euthanasia rate was very high. Thank goodness that has changed through the years.

“I knew there had to be a better way of handling surrendered or abandoned pets. That’s when we started One Dog at a Time Rescue Inc.”

The first volunteers came from the animal shelter. “We don’t have a facility. It’s ideal if we can work with the pets’ owners. If they keep the animal until we are able to find a home for it, we don’t have to move it twice.”

Abel also has a list of people willing to foster particular breeds. “The people who foster a dog have an important job ahead of them. They help train the dog, which includes potty training. They help socialize the animal. They even make sure the dog has its vaccines, is spayed or neutered, and is microchipped. The medical records go with the dog to its forever home.”

One breed that is hard to place is the pit bull. “Our organization does not usually take this breed.

The ideal situation in placing a pit bull is that the animal be an 8-week-old puppy and the person be the first owner of the dog. There’s certainly nothing wrong with the breed. But often they become aggressive because of their previous owners.”

Abel herself has a pit bull mix named Bailey. “We know the mother was a bulldog/boxer mix. The father was probably a traveling salesman,” she added with a laugh. “The dog is a mixed breed for sure. I got Bailey from our rescue organization when he was a puppy. He’s a good dog.”

Her heart goes out to pit bulls. “I wish people would stop breeding them. Many landlords do not accept them. There are very few rescues that take them. It’s sad to know many of them end up in shelters and are euthanized.”

Abel’s love for animals goes back to her childhood. She was one of six kids. “Our family always had a dog, and I was the designated caregiver of the animal.” Her brother in Ohio runs a cat rescue organization.

“We’re all volunteers at One Dog at a Time. I’m the only full-time volunteer. I get calls from owners surrendering their pets, animal clinics and humane societies.”

The organization charges $175 for each dog. “That doesn’t cover all the medical expenses we’ve invested in the animal. To have them spayed and neutered and take all their shots, plus taking care of their unique medical situations, is very expensive.

Without our financial supporters, we could not help these animals.”

Bonnie is a dog who came to the rescue needing joint surgery. “She was a large dog breed and before we could operate on her elbow joint, we had to open her up and remove the socks, strings and other debris she had in her stomach. Both operations added up to $7,000.”

Monetary donations as well as cat and dog food are accepted and appreciated. For more information, visit odtr.org.

JB Furniture honored as NWTT Chamber Member of the Month

Jon and Jill Blackwood, owners of JB’s Furniture in Warsaw, were honored as the North Webster Tippecanoe Township Chamber’s December Member of the Month.

Since 1991, the Blackwoods have been going the extra mile building customer’s trust in ser-

vice and quality products. The 36,000-square-foot showroom in Warsaw has a variety of products for the home.

With free in-home design and decorating services, JB’s has a helpful staff that encourages questions and customers to sit, recline and relax.

JB’s Furniture has been a North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber member for several years, contributing to the longevity of North Webster and the events the chamber hosts.

Stop in and see Jon and Jill for last minute Christmas gifts at their showroom on Center Street in Warsaw or visit jbsfurniture.com.

Maple Leaf Farms crowned with Coolest Thing Made In Indiana

At the first Best IN Manufacturing luncheon held Wednesday, Dec. 14, the Indiana Chamber of Commerce celebrated that thriving industry by honoring the makers who have risen to the top in the Coolest Thing Made in Indiana competition and Indiana’s Best Places to Work in Manufacturing program.

“The importance of Hoosier manufacturers cannot be overstated,” said Indiana Chamber President and CEO Kevin Brinegar. “They create the goods that sustain individuals and businesses all across the state. And the products make their way throughout the nation and around the world.”

The second Coolest Thing Made in Indiana contest wound up being a battle of Kosciusko County. In the end, online voters crowned Maple Leaf Farms of Leesburg – and its roast half duck – the champion, and Polywood of Syracuse – the maker of a 12-piece pit sectional – runner-up.

Founded in 1958, Maple Leaf Farms has grown to 900 employees and produces about 40% of the nation’s duck supply. The winning entry, the roast half duck, is a fully cooked dish that saves chefs time and allows consumers to create a restaurant-quality meal at home for their families, according to the company.

Maple Leaf Farms owner and retired CEO Terry Tucker accepted the award on behalf of the company. He developed the product concept in the late 1970s and oversaw the construction of a new food processing facility to make the fully cooked roast half duck for restaurants. Today, the product is also sold online and in retail stores.

“Our roast half duck is a Hoosier product through and through. From the feed to the farms to the finished product, each step of our process originates in and benefits Indiana. In fact, Indiana leads the U.S. in duck production and is known throughout the world for high-quality duck products like

Kauffman

our roast half duck,” said Co-President Scott Tucker.

“It is fitting our roast half duck won the Coolest Thing in Indiana Contest this year,” said CoPresident John Tucker. “While it has been a flagship product for our company for more than four decades, its popularity grew through the pandemic as consumers sought out simple-to-prepare, restaurant-quality foods to serve at home.”

Maple Leaf Farms Roast Half Duck can easily be heated and served within 20 minutes or less as a main entrée or ingredient in pasta, tacos, salad and more. The product is commonly prepared by oven, air fryer or grill.

“The real credit for the success of our roast half duck goes to our team of nearly 60 members who prepare, hand process and package our roast half duck,” said CEO Scott Reinholt. “We are grateful for their hard work and dedication.”

Joining Maple Leaf Farms and Polywood in the semifinals were Hiker ACCEPTING Trailers in Columbus and Kidstuff Playsystems in Gary. Rounding out the top eight: Grinds Coffee Pouches in Westfield, Hard Truth Distilling Co. in Nashville, Hudson Aquatic Systems in Angola and Wag’n Tails Mobile Conversions in Granger.

The field began with 54 makers who represented 43 Hoosier communities and a wide variety of products made – from racing tires to children’s car seats to wine and

video notes – and even Batmobile replicas.

Brinegar reported the battles were often fierce, with thousands of votes cast in every round.

“Indiana is fortunate to be home to companies that grow and make all kinds of things,” he enthused. “We are thrilled to recognize and bring attention to some of the state’s best and most innovative manufacturers. We especially congratulate Maple Leaf Farms on its

well-deserved victory.”

Learn about all the companies in the tournament at www.indianachamber.com/coolestthing.

An online randomizer generated the initial Coolest Thing Made in Indiana matchups, with online

voting determining the winners in each round. There was no entry fee to participate. A company did not need to be headquartered in Indiana, but the product submitted had to be manufactured in the state.

Brynn Kauffman, a member of the Colgate University class of 2023, has earned the spring 2022 dean’s award for academic excellence. Kauffman of North Webster is a history major and a graduate of Canterbury High School. Students who receive a term grade point average of 3.3 or higher while completing at least three courses earn the spring 2022 dean’s award for academic excellence.

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—

Bunny food/nail clipping

Good neighbors: Free bunny pellet food for anyone who is in need of it. Wakarusa area. Text only to (574) 304-6375. We are also taking a survey to see if there is a need for bunny, ferret or guinea pig nail clipping in this area?

Egg cartons

Good neighbors: I have about 30 empty egg cartons and live in the Syracuse/Milford area. If

any good neighbor would like to have them, you can pick them up or I’d be happy to drop them off to you. I just hate to see them go in the trash. Reply to yotsky2001@yahoo.com.

New questions

Wallpaper/car seat — I am looking for rolls of wallpaper you no longer need or want. Also, I have a car seat for a toddler I’d like to get rid of. Call (574) 646-2292.

Glass gallon jars — Looking for glass gallon jars. Call (574) 653-2311.

LRSD approves sewer rate increase

about $78,000 per year.

LRSD’s current sewer rate is $69.95.

Lakeland Regional Sewer District Board of Trustees approved a new sewer rate at its regular monthly meeting Wednesday, Dec. 21.

“Adjustments to our sewer rates need to be considered,” said President Jim Haney. “We need to take action now.”

There are several reasons for the rate increase. According to Jeff Rowe of Baker-Tilly Municipal Advisors, an engineering rate study was conducted and determined the need.

“Since 2017, the rate has not increased,” he said. “But a lot has changed since then.”

He said the daily maintenance costs are one factor. The district’s financial plan was also assessed.

“We have debt going back to the original construction,” he said. “There’s a requirement to pay off the debt.”

One of the largest costs is the repayment of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s loan, which costs $784,000 per year. In addition, LRSD needs to set aside another fund each month until the loan is fully funded. That cost is

During the public comment period, several people spoke out about the rate increase.

One man asked about capacity levels. Rowe said he wasn’t sure but, “we try to be very conservative.”

Kerry Stover of Warsaw, asked why the need for a rate increase when the district has so much excess money in reserves. The district, he said, has about $2.3 million in reserves, a figure he got from the district’s website.

Rowe said, “We did look at that.”

The USDA requires the district to have a reserve fund that can’t be spent. In addition, another account must be kept for maintenance and operating costs.

“A lot of that money LRSD can’t touch or fall below,” Rowe emphasized.

Board Vice President Bob Marcuccilli said, “Our expenses are going up.” He said sewer systems can be very corrosive and lines can get clogged; therefore, there are repair costs involved.

Rowe said some sewer districts have higher rates and some have lower sewer rates.

“We are not the highest,” he said. Districts range from the lowest at $71.85 (Turkey Creek Regional Sewer District) to the highest at $93.43 (Steuben County).

After the rate hearing, the board considered and acted on an amended rate ordinance. The rate increase is $8.70. The revised rate of $78.65 per dwelling unit becomes effective Jan. 1. The rate is not being phased in.

In other news:

• The board agreed to purchase a backup pump for Lift Station One at a cost of just over $29,000 from Thompson Pump.

• Haney was chosen to speak to Jellystone Campground about hooking up to LRSD.

• DLZ gave its engineering report.

• A small purchases committee was accepted, with three board members chosen to approve necessary minor costs.

• Mike DeWald gave the treasurer’s report.

• Astbury gave its monthly report regarding panel inventory and pump testing.

The next meeting is 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18, at LRSD, Warsaw.

Indiana Art Museums

On Nov. 7, 1883, an exhibition of 453 works by 137 artists opened at the English Hotel on the downtown Indianapolis circle. It was the first exhibition organized by the Art Association of Indianapolis, which wellknown suffragette Mary Wright Seawell, her husband, Theodore, and a small group of art-minded citizens had formed a few months earlier. (discovernewfields.org/ about/history)

This initial exhibition more than 130 years ago eventually led to the acquisition and creation of the 152-acre Newfields campus that includes the Indianapolis Museum of Art, the Lilly House, the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park, the Garden, four performance spaces, the Miller House and Garden, the Elder Greenhouse, the Beer Garden at the Greenhouse and the Garden Terrace. This is a fantastic museum to visit in Indianapolis where you can spend all day enjoying the various offerings.

For the sixth year, the Winterlights Exhibition is presented for viewing. The Garden at Newfields is aglow with more than 1.5 million lights. The landscape of Lights dances to the Nutcracker on Lilly Allee, while the wind whistles in the Ice Storm Walk.

The Lilly House is enchanting, where the halls are decked with

elegant handmade holiday cheer. A new addition, the Astraeus by local artists Owen & Crawley, lights the way through the woods as guests wander from Lilly House to Winter Market.

Guests will be amazed by a dazzling display of colorful blossoms in the new Glowing Garden.

Whimsy welcomes young and old to experience the all-new sculpture by the art collective Happy Rebels near Garden Terrace. The exhibition runs through Jan. 8.

There are currently five limited exhibitions at the museum:

• The LUME Indianapolis, featuring Monet & Friends Alive (extra charge)

• Stephen Sprouse: Rock, Art, Fashion

• We. The Culture: Works by The Eighteen Art Collective

• El Tendedero/The Clothesline Indiana

• The Clowes Pavilion Reimagined

The permanent collections at the Indianapolis Museum of Art include American Art, European Art, Decorative Arts, Glass Art, Native American Art, Embodied: Human Figures in Art, African Art, Asian Art, the Design Gallery and Ancient Art.

General admission to the Newfields Campus, which includes the museum, is $20 for adults, $13 for youth 6-17, $18 for seniors 55 and up, and free for children 5 and younger.

If you want to see the Winter-

Purdue Extension to host Food Allergies 101 program

Purdue Extension Kosciusko County is offering a one-hour Food Allergies 101 program at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11. This program will be offered at the Purdue Extension Kosciusko County Office Building, 202 W. Main St., Warsaw.

Food allergies are on the rise. Today, one in 13 children and one in 10 adults in the United States have a food allergy. The presentation defines a food allergy, identifies the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction, lists the most common food allergens, reviews ways to prevent an allergic reaction and provides resources for further reference and education.

Dylan Wood awarded gold stars at The Citadel

Dylan Wood of Akron is one of the more than 650 cadets and students recognized for their academic achievements during the Spring 2022 semester.

Gold stars are awarded to cadets and students at The Citadel who achieved a 3.7 grade point average or higher. Cadets and students who achieve gold star recognition are also placed on The Citadel’s dean’s list.

Those cadets may wear gold stars on their uniforms throughout the semester following their academic achievement. A gold star recognition certificate is awarded to non-cadet students who meet the requirements; veteran and active duty students are also awarded challenge coins.

To register for the program, please complete and submit the registration form by Jan. 6 or call (574) 372-2340.

Contact Shannon Shepherd, Purdue Extension Kosciusko County Health and Human Sciences educator, at shephe52@purdue.edu or (574) 372-2340 with any concerns or questions.

If you require special accommodations, please contact Purdue Extension Kosciusko County by Jan. 3.

lights exhibit, an additional ticket is required. The price is $29 for adults, $25 for youth 6-17, $20 for seniors 55 and up, and free for children 5 and younger.

Tickets for the LUME Indianapolis include general admission and are $29 for adults, $25 for seniors 55 and up, $20 for youth 6-17, and free for children 5 and younger.

The museum is located at 4000 Michigan Road, Indianapolis. Most of the features on the campus are open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, except for the Fairbanks Park, which is open sunrise to sunset. The Winterlights exhibit is open from 5-9 p.m. The campus is closed Monday.

The museum’s main number is (317) 923-1331; the website is discovernewfields.org. If you are planning a trip to Indianapolis, it would be worthwhile to include a stop at the Newfields Campus. Events

• Honeywell Arts and Entertainment Call for Artists. The Honeywell competition is open to anyone living in one of the 92 counties in Indiana. Entries will be accepted from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, at the Honeywell Center. The entries will be on display Jan. 5 through Feb. 12 at the Honeywell Centers Clark Gallery in Wabash.

For more information, call (260) 274-1411 or visit honeywellarts. org/gallery-exhibits/92-countyart-show.

• Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery: Excellent artist Steve Creighton will be exhibiting through Dec. 30.

To exhibit at Warsaw City Hall

Art Gallery, contact Darla McCammon, curator, at (574) 5274044 (leave a message) or mcdar7@gmail.com.

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

The Watershed Foundation’s Annual Photo Contest now underway

The lakes of the Upper Tippecanoe Watershed are a constant backdrop in the lives of residents — places tied to memories, traditions and families. During the course of a year, so many photographs are taken near and on the waters in Noble, Kosciusko and Whitley Counties.

Each year, The Watershed Foundation seeks the best of those photographs for their annual photo contest.

“At TWF, one of our favorite things is connecting others to the watershed we all share. The photo contest helps promote understanding about how we are all, in some way, connected to and benefit from our natural water

resources,” said Lyn Crighton, executive director of The Watershed Foundation.

The following categories are available for photograph submission:

• Lovin’ the Lakes: People engaged in lake activities — tubing, swimming, walking along the shore, etc.

• Wet ‘n’ Wildlife: Animals and wildlife.

• Nature’s Studio: Landscapes and watery reflections.

• Pollution Solutions: Capturing volunteer efforts and the fixes that protect the lakes.

Rules, conditions, and photo submission are available at: watershedfoundation.

org/2022photocontest/

The deadline for submitting entries is Dec. 31, 2022. Voting for the ‘People’s Choice Awards will run from Jan. 1-31.

Local students named to dean’s list

The following local students were named to the dean’s list of Trine University: Leesburg — Matthew Shoemaker Milford — Brayanna Kelly Warsaw — Conner Bale, Thomas Greene, Ryan Harris, Ryan Hoak, Sidney Wagner, Colton Wampler

Purdue Extension to host free identity theft prevention program

“What’s In Your Bag” will be offered at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, at the Purdue Extension Kosciusko County Building, located at 202 W. Main St., Warsaw.

This free, educational program by Purdue Extension — Kosciusko County will be presented by Shannon Shepherd, Purdue Extension — Kosciusko County Health and Human Sciences educator.

Identity theft can happen to anyone, but there are some precautions you can take to reduce your risk. This interactive program will make you aware of how much personal information you carry with you every day, provide ways to help prevent or decrease your risk of having your identity stolen and teach you the steps to take if your identity has been stolen.

Those interested should preregister by Feb. 3 by calling the Extension Office at (574) 372-2340 or emailing shephe52@purdue.edu.

This program and all programs of the Purdue University Extension Service are open to everyone. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, please contact Shepherd at (574) 372-2340 or shephe52@purdue.edu by Feb. 3.

WCHS AP Spanish teacher receives $500 grant from Via Credit Union

Warsaw Community High School veteran teacher Jennifer Burley recently earned a $500 grant through Via Credit Union to purchase a subscription to the Lupa app for her AP Spanish students.

The app is intended for AP Spanish students to listen to Spanish podcasts about current events and hot topics, much like NPR, entirely in Spanish.

Burley has good reason for purchasing a subscription to the Lupa app. She stated in the grant application, “I learned about it

[the Lupa app] in my Phonetics class this summer and really enjoyed using it. It was also recommended by the AP Spanish Institute instructor. In AP Spanish, students must listen to immersive authentic Spanish for at least 30 minutes per week to build vocabulary and aural skills.”

Burley is a lifelong learner, and she is constantly looking for ways for her students to improve their Spanish skills. AP Spanish students will have the Lupa app downloaded onto their iPad when the funds are disbursed.

KCCVB launches Breakfast Trail Passport

The Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors Bureau has launched the Breakfast Trail Passport, the latest in a series of free, digital passports called the Engage Kosciusko Digital Passport Program. The Breakfast Trail Passport features 14 restaurants and coffee shops serving breakfast in Kosciusko County.

When passholders check in at all breakfast locations on the passport, they will be entered into a drawing to win $100 in Kosciusko Cash. This drawing will happen next year, on Dec. 13, 2023, giving users a full year to complete the passport. Additionally, some of the businesses are offering exclusive discounts on breakfast to passholders.

This passport is designed to drive visitors and residents alike to local businesses in Kosciusko County. It is joining five other passports the KCCVB has created, including the Trail Blazer Challenge, Public Art Trail Challenge, Adventure Challenge, Sipping Trail Passport and Taco Trail Passport.

The passports are divided into two categories. Challenge passports allow users to earn prizes by checking in at locations, while

savings passports include local businesses that offer discounts to passport users.

The Breakfast Trail Passport includes the following locations: American Table Restaurant, Creighton’s Crazy Egg Café & Coffee Bar, Etna Green Café, Lakes Grill Restaurant, Syracuse Café, Diana’s Family Restaurant, Cardoso 520, Cozy Cottage Restaurant, Maria’s Family Restaurant, Maria’s House of Pancakes, Mugshots Coffee House & Eatery, Light Rail Café, Coffee Depot and Milford Harvest Coffee.

“If you are a breakfast lover, this trail is for you! Both visitors and residents alike can enjoy this passport and help support local Kosciusko County restaurants this holiday season while earning the chance to win $100 in Kosciusko Cash,” said Laura Rothhaar, marketing and communications manager at KCCVB.

Sign up for the Breakfast Trail Passport and other passports at visitkosciuskocounty.org/engagekosciusko-experience-passes.

For passport assistance or questions, call (574) 269-6090, email info@koscvb.org or stop into the Visitors Center, 111 Capital Drive, Warsaw.

Local students named to president’s list

The following local students were named to the president’s list of Trine University:

Bourbon — Jolie Groves, Lauren Snyder

Etna Green — Amanda Dines

Leesburg — Jackson Stover

Ligonier — Kristen Cox, Omar Flores

Mentone — Joseph Irons

Milford — Colten Edgar

New Paris — Nathaniel Bradshaw, Aaron Streit

Syracuse — Jordan Grindle, Carol Haldeman, Mariah Hurst Warsaw — Kyle Baumgartner, Abigail Sanner, Henry Wagoner, Sandra Sanchez

Goshen Health’s DAISY Award goes to Melissa Fitzsimmons

Melissa Fitzsimmons, a registered nurse in Day Surgery at Goshen Hospital, received Goshen Health’s Diseases Attacking the Immune SYstem Award.

The DAISY award is part of an international program that honors and celebrates the skillful, compassionate care nurses provide every day.

The nomination from patient Dana Parciak read, “I arrived at Day Surgery to have a procedure. Melissa was so incredibly thorough and thoughtful. She made sure I fully understood what was going to happen. She had a great sense of humor, which definitely calmed my nerves. She was very caring, and her skill level stood out to me.

“She provided the same level of care to me that I’m convinced she provides to all her patients. Many, many thanks, Melissa! The care you provided to me is something I will never forget.”

“It is an honor to have the

DAISY Award presented to a colleague in Day Surgery,” said Jared Berkey, BSN, RN, CPAN, perianesthesia nurse manager. “It did not surprise me one bit when Melissa was nominated, as she truly offers exceptional care to every patient who comes through Day Surgery. Her positive energy is contagious.”

To nominate a nurse at Goshen Health for the DAISY Award, visit goshenhealth.com/about-us/ daisy-award.

The DAISY Foundation, which promotes and distributes the awards, was established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes after he died from complications of the autoimmune disease ITP in 1999.

During his hospitalization, they deeply appreciated the care and compassion shown to Patrick and his entire family. When he died, they felt compelled to say “thank you” to nurses in a very public way. To learn more, visit daisyfoundation.org.

Walmart collects $11,000-plus in toys, gifts for The Salvation Army

Walmart in Warsaw partnered with The Salvation Army to collect $11,187.86 in toys and gifts for Angel Tree. The partnership is a national effort to support The Salvation Army in providing assistance

to families in need during the holidays.

The Salvation Army has held the annual Angel Tree campaign since 1988 and has provided Christmas assistance since 1921 in Kosciusko Coun-

ty. This is the fourth national event by Walmart since 2019.

The Salvation Army will assist more than 300 children this year for Christmas.

For more information go to sawarsaw.org.

United Methodist churches joined forces to collect 2,370 items for the Choice Pantry of The Salvation Army.

Team Pasta, composed of Warsaw First, Clunette and Atwood Aldersgate United Methodist churches, collected 1,366 items.

Team PBJ, composed of Walnut Creek, Celebration and Trinity United Methodist churches, collected 1,004 items.

The combined effort was developed in a meeting where pastors of those churches fellowship and pray together, ac-

cording to Pastor Stacy Downing of Walnut Creek UMC.

“We wanted to help The Salvation Army be stocked for the holidays with cereal, pasta, peanut butter and jelly,” she noted. “We made this a fun event where we could join together to help in the name of Jesus.”

The Salvation Army Choice Pantry has seen an increase in requests in 2022, according to Envoy Ken Locke, administrator, along with preparing for the Christmas outreach.

Melissa Ramirez of Akron has been awarded the Arthur W. and Lois R. Zimmerman Memorial Scholarship at Manchester University. The Tippencanoe Valley High School graduate is majoring in elementary education at the campus in North Manchester.

This endowed scholarship fund was established to honor Arthur

and Lois Zimmerman. After Arthur’s death in 1951, Lois supported their four children through college. Earnings from this fund provide scholarships with preference given to first-generation college students pursuing a major in accounting, communication, education, mathematics or psychology.

United Methodist churches collect 2,370 items for Salvation Army Choice Pantry

Melissa Ramirez awarded Zimmerman scholarship at Manchester University

O BITUARIES

Lisa Olivo Hoist Operator

Lisa Olivo, 62, Milford, passed away at 5:20 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, 2022, at Goshen Hospital.

She was born May 20, 1960, the daughter of Alma (Cable) and John Pamer in Goshen. She was raised in New Paris and attended Wawasee Community Schools.

Lisa worked at Donnelly’s as a hoist operator for many years. She attended Faith Christian Center Ministries in Goshen for over 30 years and loved her family dearly. She especially adored her sons, grandchildren and fur babies. Lisa loved to travel, sewing, arts and crafts and loved to shoot pool.

She will be greatly missed by her hubsand of 46 years, Jaun Olivo of Milford; three sons, Jaun Olivo Jr., Joseph Olivo and Justin Caleb (Amanda) Olivo; three grandchildren, Juan Anthony, Chloe and Gabriel; two brothers, Steve Pamer and Jerry Pamer; and in-laws, Pedro (Adela) Olivo, Teresa (Ramiro) Rivera, Raul Olivo, Rosalinda (Eddie) Hernadez, Lorenzo (Mary) Olivo, Cyntia Olivo and Simona (Jose) Flores.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Alma (Lloyd) Cripe and John (Betty) Pamer; and sisters-in-law, Sara (Tony) Mello and Beatrice (Josue) Perez.

A funeral service was held in Lisa’s honor at 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 19, at Mishler Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 461 W. 900N, Milford. Pastor Kenny Rogers officiated. Burial followed at Milford Cemetery. Family and friends were received from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, prior to the service, at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Goshen Center for Cancer Care or Faith Christian Center Ministries.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family online at www.mishlerfhcc.com.

Michelle

Ann

Blocker

Storm Watching Enthusiast

Michelle Ann Blocker, 67, North Manchester, entered the gates of heaven on Dec. 21, 2022. Born in LaPorte on April 17, 1955, Michelle was the daughter of Sally Hughes and sister to Janet and Susan Hughes.

On July 20, 1973, Michelle, known as “Mike” to those who knew her, married Danny Blocker. During their 49 years of marriage, they were blessed with three children, Troy, Jasun and Kathy. A woman of faith and love, Mike loved God deeply and had a servant’s heart. She delighted in helping people and truly caring for them. Mike was a prayer warrior who wanted everyone to find the Lord. The simple things in life mattered most to Mike, and she believed faith and family mattered the most.

For 25 years, Mike cleaned homes for the elderly, helping to make their lives a bit easier. She also worked for Lakeland Nursery in Silver Lake for 12 years. When she had time, Mike loved spending time outdoors gardening, caring for her home and watching animals, especially birds. She also was a storm watching enthusiast and was thrilled to see a tornado close up when it hit their property in 2000, while giving God the glory that the house was still standing. In her early 60s, Mike successfully received her GED, something she had aspired to do for many years.

The loving memory of Mike, or “Gobby” to her grandchildren, will be forever cherished by her husband, Danny Blocker, North Manchester; sons, Troy (Dawn) Blocher, Warsaw, and Jasun (Shannon) Blocher, Columbia City; daughter, Kathy (Kevin) Smith, Silver Lake; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and one sister, Janet (Stewart) Smith, Sheffield, Ala.

Michelle was preceded in death by her mother, Sally Hughes; and sister, Susan Pedro.

Family and friends may call from 3-7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, at McKee Mortuary, 1401 SR 114 West, North Manchester. A private burial will be held at Eel River Old German Baptist Brethren Cemetery, 2128 E. 1200S, Silver Lake, at a later date.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Michelle Ann Blocker, memorial contributions may be made to the Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana, 6316 Mutual Drive, Fort Wayne, IN 46825.

The family of Mike Blocker has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.

Harry Jay Adams

Harry Jay Adams, 95, Argos, a native of Silver Lake, died at 11 a.m. Dec. 15, 2022.

He was born May 23, 1927. On Aug. 17, 1947, he married Ruth Eileen Jones. She preceded him in death May 1, 2020.

Surviving are daughters, Shirleen Martens, Red Lodge, Mont., and Darleen Vanderweele, Argos; seven grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.

Private funeral services were held Dec. 26 at Earl-Grossman Funeral Home, Argos. Private burial followed.

Guy L. Alspaugh

Guy L. Alspaugh, 85, Warsaw, died Dec. 19, 2022.

He was born May 22, 1937. On Jan. 5, 1957, he married Nancy VandeWater; she survives.

Also surviving are sons, Eric Alspaugh, Tim Alspaugh and Andy Alspaugh; eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and siblings, Mary Wolfe, John Alspaugh, Esther Tucker and Naomi Lintow.

Services were held Dec. 28 at Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Warsaw. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.

Joseph A. Barczak

Joseph A. Barczak, 73, Warsaw, died Dec. 21, 2022.

He was born Nov. 11, 1949. On Oct. 5, 2005, he married Sandra Marvel, who preceded him in death.

He is survived by a daughter, Lisa

VERIFIED PETITION SEEKING A DETERMINATION OF CUSTODY

On 10/21/2022, Yatziry Fuentes filed a Verified Petition Seeking a Determination of Custody (Cause Number 20D06-2210-JP-000354). Any person has a right to appear at the hearing in Elkhart Superior Court 6 and to file objections. Noe Varela and/or Evelia Murillo Moreno is advised to contact Elkhart Superior Court 6 to inform them of his/her current address using the above listed cause number or may contact Yatziry Fuentes’ attorney. Yatziry Fuentes is represented by Heidi Cintron at Center for Legal Justice, 220 W. High Street, Elkhart, Indiana, 46516, (574) 333-2037.

Rose; sons, Curtis Campbell, Tim Barczak and Mike Barczak; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sisters, JoAnn Sacalac and Bernadette Barczak; and brothers, Stanley Barczak, Jerome Barczak and John Barczak.

Graveside services will be held at 9 a.m. Friday, Jan. 6, at Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw. Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Michelle E. Belleshire

Michelle Elizabeth Belleshire, 77, Warsaw, died Dec. 17, 2022.

She was born Feb. 10, 1945.

She is survived by many friends.

Per her wishes, no public services will be held. Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Roberta M. Botset

Roberta M. Botset, 93, Nappanee, died at 1:34 p.m. Dec. 21, 2022.

She was born Nov. 7, 1929. On Aug. 2, 1947, she married Elmore A. Botset. He preceded her in death Sept. 8, 2014.

Surviving are her children, Brenda K. Fritz, Elkhart, and Eric Botset, Nappanee; five grandchildren; and five greatgrandchildren.

Services were held Dec. 27 at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee. Burial was in Bremen Cemetery.

Kimberly A. Boyer

Kimberly A. Boyer, 52, rural Mentone, died at 2:10 p.m. Dec. 21, 2022.

She was born June 2, 1970. On March 25, 2000, she married D. Kevin Boyer; he survives.

Also surviving are brothers, Neal Haimbaugh, Culver, and twin Kenneth Haimbaugh, Rochester; father- and mother-in-law, Donald and Carol Boyer, Mentone; several nieces and nephews; two uncles; and an aunt.

Services were held Dec. 27 at King Memorial Home, Mentone. Interment was in Mentone Cemetery.

Raymond Lee Briney

Raymond Lee Briney, 79, Warsaw, died Dec. 20, 2022.

He was born Aug. 9, 1943. On July 4, 1991, he married Karen Gelbaugh; she survives.

Also surviving are his children, Troy Briney, Rhonda White and Tracy Potts; 10 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and siblings, John Briney, Jim Briney, Dave Briney, Roy Briney, Ruth Ann Nicholson, Bill Bowerman and Dave Oaks.

Visitation was held Dec. 26 at Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Warsaw.

Miriam M. Conrad

Miriam “Molly” M. Conrad, 93, Goshen, died Dec. 17, 2022.

She was born Sept. 3, 1929. On Sept. 8, 1946, she married Grover L. Conrad. He preceded her in death Dec. 31, 1997.

Surviving are her children, Glenda Taets and Ivan Conrad, both of Goshen, and Grover Conrad Jr., New Paris; six grandchildren; many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and siblings, Doris Cripe, Goshen, and Harry Vredenburg, Arkansas.

No services are planned at this time.

Antonia Cooper

Antonia Cooper, 56, Elkhart, died Dec. 15, 2022.

She was born Jan. 4, 1966.

She is survived by her mother, Dora Buch; children, Rebecca Garza, Cynthia Alejandro, Christina Hernandez and Reyna Vivanco, all of Goshen, and Raquel Sweet, Yucaipa, Calif.; 12 grandchildren; and sisters, Margarita Magos, Ligonier, and Maria Sandoval, Goshen.

Services were held Dec. 20 at YoderCulp Funeral Home, Goshen. Cremation followed the service.

Connie J. Dewey

Connie J. Dewey, 56, Milford, died at 10:50 p.m. Dec. 15, 2022.

She was born Aug. 16, 1966. On Jan. 2, 2015, she married Charles Dewey Jr.; he survives.

She is also survived by a son, Justin S. Davis, Wabash; stepson, Charley Dewey III; stepdaughter, Kayla Dewey; and a stepgrandson.

Services were held Dec. 22 at McDonald Funeral Home, Wabash. Burial was in Friends Cemetery, Wabash.

Christopher Ryan Doty

Christopher “Chris” Ryan Doty, 30, Syracuse, died Dec. 20, 2022.

He was born Sept. 25, 1992.

He is survived by a daughter, Diamantina Ann, North Webster; his mother, Patsy Miller, Syracuse; his father, Douglas Doty, Thailand; brother, Brian Doty, Syracuse; grandmother, Jane Doty, Chicago, Ill.; brother-in-law, Sukgwinder “Rambo” Singh; and several nieces and nephews.

Services were held Dec. 26 at Owen Family Funeral Home, Syracuse. Burial was in Whitehead/Maple Grove Cemetery, New Paris.

James A. Eppelmann

James Allen Eppelmann, 56, Columbia City, died Dec. 18, 2022.

He was born March 6, 1966. He married Penny, who preceded him in death Oct. 14, 2002.

Surviving are sons, James and Lucas Eppelmann; his father and stepmother, Nikolai and Sharron Eppelmann, Defiance, Ohio; siblings, Nikolai “Tom” Eppelmann, Warsaw, and Theresa Fruit, Parker City, and Michelle Studebaker, Larwill; and several stepsiblings and adopted siblings.

The funeral service will be held at noon Thursday, Dec. 29, at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. Interment will be at Sparta Cemetery, Kimmell. Visitation is 10 a.m. until the service Thursday at the funeral home.

Shane C. Evans

Shane Christopher Evans, 51, North Webster, died Dec. 16, 2022.

He was born May 20, 1971. On March 22, 2001, he married Patricia A. Clarke; she survives.

Also surviving are stepchildren, Amiee Stufflebeam, North Webster, Travis Coon and Brandon Hedeen, both of Sioux Falls, S.D.; 14 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sister, Stacie Koedyker, rural Leesburg; a nephew; and his mother, Pat Evans, Pierceton.

A life celebration was held Dec. 21 at Owen Family Funeral Home, North Webster. Final interment was in Leesburg Cemetery.

Continued from page 8

Diana M. Hite

Diana M. Hite, 74, Goshen, died Dec. 20, 2022.

She was born Feb. 1, 1948. On Nov. 19, 1976, she married Stanley A. Hite. He preceded her in death July 8, 2012.

Surviving are daughters, Joan Hartzler, Grottos, Va., Deborah Rice, Milford, and Kathleen S. Miller, Goshen; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and siblings, Maria F. Huber, Goshen, Lydia Garza, Las Vegas, Nev., Nori Arguijo, Corpus Christi, Texas, and Raudel Garza, Falfurrias, Texas.

Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28, at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Violett Cemetery, Goshen.

Mary Jo Hurley

Mary Jo “Jodi” Hurley, 79, North Webster, died Dec. 14, 2022.

She was born Nov. 6, 1943. She married Jack Hurley, who preceded her in death.

She is survived by a sister, Judy Bowen; brothers, David Kuder, Roy Kuder and Lyman Busard; sister, Cindy Busard; daughters, Michelle Michaels, Sandy Reihl, Jill DeRose, Jana Parnell and Tammy Haynes; stepdaughter, Joilynn Walters; 15 grandchildren; and 32 great-grandchildren.

A private graveside ceremony will be held for the immediate family members only with a celebration of life to be held in the spring for family and friends. Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Warsaw, is in charge of arrangements.

Judge Robert Edward Kirsch

Judge Robert Edward Kirsch, 69, Fort Wayne, formerly of Ligonier, died Dec. 13, 2022.

He was born Jan. 11, 1953. On Aug. 24, 1974, he married Carol Vawrinek; she survives.

Also surviving are sons, Brian and Scott, both of Fort Wayne, and David, Greencastle; eight grandchildren; and a sister, Carol L. Kirsch, Fort Wayne.

A celebration of life will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at Ligonier Presbyterian Church. Yeager Funeral Home, Ligonier, was in charge of arrangements.

David L. Kuhn

David L. Kuhn, 73, Mentone, died Dec. 22, 2022.

Arrangements are currently pending at King Memorial Home, Mentone.

Katy Elizabeth Kuhns

Katy Elizabeth Kuhns, 3 1/2 weeks old, Nappanee, died at 3:01 a.m. Dec. 21, 2022.

She was born Nov. 26, 2022.

Surviving are her parents, Maynard and Rosa (Hochstetler) Kuhns; grandparents, Alton and Treva Kuhns, Etna Green, and Dale and Esther Hochstetler, Nappanee; and great-grandparents, Eli Kuhns, Etna Green, and John Henry and Rosanna Borkholder, Nappanee.

Services were held Dec. 23 at the family residence in Nappanee. Burial was in Graber Cemetery. ThompsonLengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee, was in charge of arrangements.

Roland Mason

Roland “Ron” Mason, 93, Nappanee, died at 12:05 a.m. Dec. 20, 2022.

He was born Feb. 28, 1929. On June 12, 1949, he married Gloria Troup; she survives.

Also surviving are his children, Debra Swihart, Nappanee, Jack Mason, Wakarusa, and Jerry “Moose” Mason, Nappanee; three grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

At Ron’s request, cremation will take place and visitation will be held from 1-2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, with a memorial service starting at 2 p.m. at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee. Internment in Bremen Cemetery will take place at a later date.

Joshaua David May

Joshaua “Josh” David May 50, War-

saw, died Dec. 19, 2022.

He was born Nov. 21, 1972. In 1996, he married Lorrie Brookins.

He is survived by his mother, Carol May; brothers, Jeremy May, Bourbon, and Eric May, Leesburg; sister, Laurie Patterson, Leesburg; and nieces and nephews.

No public services will be held. Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Braxton Chase McGuire

Braxton Chase McGuire, 18, Fort Wayne, died Dec. 14, 2022.

He was born Aug. 22, 2004.

He is survived by an aunt; grandparents, Holly and David McGuire, Warsaw, and Teresa Beck, Marion; great-grandfather, Harold Nichols, Hendersonville, N.C.; two cousins; several other great-aunts, great-uncles and distant cousins; and his mother, Michelle Lynn McGuire.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at RedpathFruth Funeral Home, 225 Argonne Road, Warsaw. Friends and family may visit prior to the service from 10-11 a.m. Burial will take place at Grove Chapel Cemetery, Claypool.

Larry Mock

Larry Mock, 84, Syracuse, died Nov. 25, 2022.

On Dec. 6, 1958, he married Susan Kay Darr, who preceded him in death in 2014.

Surviving are her children, Bryan Mock, Wichita, Kan., Amy Weeber, Goshen, and Laura Mock, Fort Wayne; six grandchildren; one great-grandson.

A celebration of life will be at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, at Calvary United Methodist Church , 801 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. Visitation will be 2-4 p.m. the same day at the church.

Jean A. Owen

Jean A. Owen, 83, Goshen and Sarasota, Fla., died at 2:45 p.m. Dec. 16, 2022.

She was born Nov. 16, 1939. In 1959, she married Robert L. Owen; they later divorced and he preceded her in passing in 2014.

She is survived by daughter, Renita de la Garza, Syracuse; daughter-in-law, Vicki Owen, Syracuse; a grandson; a great-grandson; sister, Janet Barden, Warsaw; and a niece.

The family is grieving privately though a memorial service may be held at a later date. Owen Family Funeral Home, Syracuse, was in charge of arrangements.

Patricia Joan Paris

Patricia “Patti” Joan Paris, 75, Warsaw, died at 11:58 a.m. Dec. 19, 2022.

She was born Sept. 11, 1947. On July 30, 1966, she married George “Tim” Frank Paris; he survives.

Also surviving are sons, Randy Paris, Winona Lake, Chris Paris, Carmel, and Jason Paris, Greencastle, Pa.; and seven grandchildren.

Services were held Dec. 27 at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw. A graveside service followed at IOOF Cemetery, Rochester.

Ray V. Reffitt

Ray V. Reffitt, 84, Pierceton, died Dec. 17, 2022.

He was born May 8, 1938.

He is survived by his spouse, Ralph Rigby, Pierceton; sons, Kevin Reffitt, Prestonsburg, Ky.; sister, Juanita Bradford, Silver Lake; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Services were held Dec. 21 at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Pierceton. Burial was in Hillcrest Cemetery.

Renae Sue Riddle

Renae Sue (Goralski) Riddle, 56, died Dec. 15, 2022.

She was born Jan. 17, 1966.

Surviving are her parents, Karen (Riddle) and James Tharp, Warsaw, and Minor LeRoy Fretz; siblings, Rhonda Heckaman, Bremen, Ricki Graffa, Osceola, Kim Meyer, Bremen, Erica Risner, North Manchester, Brian Fretz, Leesburg, Kristen Jones, Bremen, Wes Tharp, Warsaw, Ashley Tharp, Warsaw, and Caroline Tharp, Knox; children,

Ashli Melson, Andrea Barefoot and Elise Goralski; seven grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held Dec. 22 at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, Hart, Mich.

Evelyn M. Sechrist

Evelyn M. (Long) Sechrist, 99, Plymouth, died Dec. 18, 2022.

She was born Sept. 11, 1923. She married Daniel Long, who preceded her in death July 12, 1985. On April 27, 1991, she married Wilbur Sechrist, who preceded her in death Oct. 28, 2006.

Surviving are two grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; stepsons, Ed Sechrist, Mocksville, N.C., and Stephen Sechrist, Port Orange, Fla.; and her brother, Frank Unruh, Warsaw.

Services were held Dec. 28 at Mt. Tabor Church of God, Etna Green. Burial was in Stony Point Cemetery, Atwood. Deaton-Clemens Funeral Home, Bourbon, was in charge of arrangements.

Esther Mae Shallenbarger

Esther Mae Shallenbarger, 89, died Dec. 19, 2022.

She was born June 15, 1933. On June 9, 1973, she married Richard Shallenbarger. He preceded her in death Jan. 6, 2015.

Surviving are sons, Jim Shallenbarger, Goshen, and John Lung, Elkhart; daughters, Dorothy Miller and Canda Quinn, both of Goshen; 11 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; a brother, Paul Lehman, Wooster, Ohio; a sister, Arlene Miller, Shreve, Ohio; and many nieces and nephews.

In keeping with Esther’s wishes, no public visitation or services are planned. Burial was in Maple Grove Cemetery, Topeka. Yeager Funeral Home, Ligonier, was in charge of arrangements.

Mackie Faye Wigner

Mackie Faye Wigner, 86, Ligonier, died Dec. 11, 2022.

She was born June 21, 1936. On Dec. 24, 1963, she married Victor Wigner, who preceded her in death in 2001.

She is survived by her caretaker, Carol Hunter, Ligonier.

No public visitation or services are planned at this time. Burial was in Prairie Street Cemetery, Elkhart.

George Paul Williams

George Paul Williams, 73, Albion, died Dec. 17, 2022.

He was born July 7, 1949.

Surviving are siblings, Betty Terry, Rutledge, Tenn., Mary Neace, Lexington, Ky., Reva Coe, LaGrange, Roy Williams, Lost Creek, Ky., Keith Williams, Albion, Pamela Southwood and Sharon Hayes, both of Ligonier.

Burial was in Orange Township Cemetery. Yeager Funeral Home, Li-

gonier, was in charge of arrangements.

Rickie Wireman Sr.

Rickie “Rick” Wireman Sr., 62, Warsaw, died Dec. 18, 2022.

He was born Oct. 7, 1962.

He is survived by a sister, Debbie Wireman, Warsaw; three grandchildren; and a nephew.

A private graveside service will be held in the spring at Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw. McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw, was in charge of arrangements.

Lois L. Yoder

Lois L. Yoder, 76, Goshen, died at 10:30 p.m. Dec. 16, 2022.

She was born May 6, 1946.

Surviving are brothers, Nelson Wakley, Fort Wayne, and Ralph Wakley, Nappanee.

No services are scheduled. Rieth Rohrer Ehret Funeral Home, Goshen, was in charge of arrangements.

Court News

Small Claims

Kosciusko County

The following small claims have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Warsaw Health System LLC d/b/a Kosciusko Community Hospital v. Jeffrey Allen, $813.78; v. Carrie Clevenger, $2,187.24; v. Curtis Click, $974.52; v. Michelle Flannery, $4,803.19; v. Ana Granados, $5,637.95; v. Timothy Jansma, $2,998.32; v. Gary Long, $980.46; v. Kyle Scarborough, $1,325.22 Snow and Sauerteig LLP v. Kenneth Baxter, $2,323.74; v. Andrew Harlan, $2,561.09; v. Emily M. Sasser, $3,499.64

Lakeview Loan Servicing LLC v. Brian Hodges, $96,928.49

NWL Company LLC v. Robert D. and Sally Lamirand, $58,704.70

Superior Court III

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

Disregarding stop sign — Aliyah L. Bryant, Roanoke, $160.50; Ashton G. Shepherd, Warsaw, $160.50; Dara L. Matthews, Warsaw, $160.50; Christopher S. Atz, Cromwell, $160.50

Speeding in school zone — David A. Lefler Jr., Elkhart, $160.50

Driving while suspended — Kenneth R. Stanton, Milford, $185.50

Peggy Lou Thomas

Peggy Lou Earnhart Thomas, 91, Warsaw, formerly of Kimmell, died at 6:15 a.m. Dec. 19, 2022.

She was born Aug. 14, 1931. On April 21, 1951, she married Keith John Earnhart, who preceded her in death Sept. 29, 1990. On Jan. 6, 1996, she married William “Bill” Thomas, who preceded her in death May 29, 2008.

Surviving are her children, Randy Earnhart, Fort Wayne, and Cindy Niles, Syracuse; five grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; sisters, Pat Stangland, Albion, Sandy Bills, Kendallville, and Mary LeFever, Churubusco; and brothers, Melvin Berkes, Avilla, and Max Berkes, Albion.

Services were held Dec. 28 at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. Burial was in Thorn Cemetery.

Sally Louise Wagner

Sally Louise Wagner, 89, North Manchester, formerly of Warsaw, died Dec. 20, 2022.

She was born Dec. 6, 1933.

Surviving are daughters, Shana Wagner and Sheryl L. Hanna, both of Warsaw; two granddaughters; seven great-grandchildren; and two greatgreat-grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, at Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2000 Sheridan St., Warsaw. A graveside service will be held immediately after the visitation at Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.

Aegis Dental Group Warsaw P.C. v. Steve Conway, $450.20; v. Carrissa Coverstone, $1,228.69; v. Natalie Greene, $1,054.73; v. Michael Hoskins, $386.86; v. Dylan T. Tharp, $309.32; v. Brian J. Tucker, $137.40

Vanderpool Law Firm P.C. v. Bryce Conwell, $500

Batta Enterprise v. Iolaus Lewis, $1,490

Frauhiger Reality v. Scott and Shawn Smith, $3,060

Ace Bail Bonds v. Lonnie Sroufe, $1,000

CL Benz Company LLC v. Arden Stafford, $7,380.83

Elkhart County

The following small claims have been awarded in Elkhart County Superior Court IV:

McArthur Counseling Center v. Alexus Wright, Syracuse, $772.12; v. Carlos Avalos, Syracuse, $687.03

Civil Collections

Kosciusko County

The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Chris Kehler presiding: LVNV Funding LLC v. Vicki Cook, $1,528.39; v. Sandra England, $925.94 Mariner Finance LLC v. Katherine Peters, $1,631.46

OneMain Financial Group LLC v. Terry R. Woodling, $8,048.50

Elkhart County

The following civil collections have been awarded in Elkhart Circuit Court: Mariner Finance v. Andrew Marsh, Nappanee, $11,060.02

C OUNTY R EPORT B IRTHS

Asher Clay Mullet

Skyler and Erin (Moser) Mullet, Middlebury, are the parents of a son, Asher Clay, born at 5:31 p.m. Dec. 16, 2022, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 7 pounds, 2 ounces, and was 20 inches long.

Kylan Joel Zimmerman

Bryant and Janae (Martin) Zimmerman, Mentone, are the parents of a son, Kylan Joel, born at 1:45 a.m. Dec. 21, 2022. He weighed 7 pounds.

Jacob Aaron Yoder

Dana and Sarah (Miller) Yoder, Milford, are the parents of a son, Jacob Aaron, born at 12:08 a.m. Dec. 22, 2022. He weighed 10 pounds, 4 ounces.

OneMain Financial Group, LLC v. Antwon Hilson, Nappanee, $16,010.72; v. Benjamin Howdeshell, Wakarusa, $4,852.70

Evictions

The following evictions have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Bret Wolf v. Alexandria Arriola, $3,386.16

1923 Vacations LLC v. Brandon Bergman and Lindsay Ray, $2,000

Webster Estates LLC v. Brandon Holden, $1,389.74

Mortgage Foreclosures

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

No valid driver’s license, disregarding stop sign — Brian A. Perez, Warsaw, $185.50

Operating a motor vehicle with a false plate — Andrew J. Horn, Warsaw, $160

Speeding — Amy R. Miller, Larwill, $160.50; Hailey D. Dawson, North Manchester, $160.50; Kiyarra M. Ellis, Atwood, $160.50; Lisa D. Beckner, Warsaw, $160.50; Nathan L. Hochstetler, Etna Green, $160.50; Austin J. Rose, Warsaw, $160.50; Caleb L. Flick, Roann, $160.50; Pamela J. Pinkowski, Bourbon, $160.50; Ethan J. Gilbert, Goshen, $160.50; Marissa A. Olivarez, Warsaw, $160.50

Harboring a non-immunized dog

— Terry D. Baker, Pierceton, $160

Owner allows dog to stray beyond owner’s premises — Jeremy J. Rush, Akron, $25

Failure of occupant to use safety belt — Scott E. Powell, Warsaw, $25; Elizabeth N. Gerber, Warsaw, $25; Brandon E. Carey, Warsaw, $25; Jeffery A. Fuller, Silver Lake, $25

Failure of occupant to use safety belt, operating with expired plates

— Kyle J. Shepherd, Warsaw, $185

Work zone speeding — Alexander B. Munoz, Warsaw, $160.50

Marriage Dissolutions

Kosciusko County

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

Cain — Cherity Cain, Warsaw, and Garland Cain, Warsaw. Married: Oct. 18, 1999. Separated: Dec. 1, 2022. There are no minor children.

Beeney — Judel Beeney, Akron, and William Beeney, Akron. Married: Oct. 1, 2005. Separated: Dec. 16, 2022. There are no minor children.

Miller — Hunter Miller, South Whitley, and Emily Miller, Akron. Married: March 6, 2021. Separated: Dec. 1, 2022. There are no minor children.

Elkhart County

The following couple has filed for marriage dissolution in Elkhart Superior Court:

Doering — Sierra D. Doering, Nappanee, and Matthew R. Doering, Goshen. With child (ren).

Garage Sales A070

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KREMC continues annual donation to support Winter Warmth Program

Kosciusko REMC donated $5,000 to Combined Community Services to support the Winter Warmth Program.

On Dec. 13, KREMC’s CEO Kurt Carver presented a check to CCS Executive Director Randy Polston. KREMC has been supporting the Winter Warmth Program since 2007.

“Giving to our community is an essential part of our cooperative mission,” said Carver, “We support CCS as they provide warmth and needed services to our community this winter.”

CCS will use KREMC’s donation to support KREMC members who need assistance with their electric bills. This provides relief to families and individuals so their homes can stay warm without the financial burden.

According to Polston, the

needs of the community this winter have already been significantly greater than in the past.

“At Combined Community Services, the inflationary period of time that we’re going through in our nation is really affecting our families,” explained Polston, “Normally, we would have 350 or 400 families a month come into the food pantry. By the second week of November, we had already exceeded 400 families. By November 30, we were over 700 families who needed food.”

Because of this rising need for donations, CCS is grateful for sponsors like KREMC, who share the like-minded mission of putting members of their rural neighborhoods first.

“It takes a village,” said Polston, “and REMC is definitely part of that village to help support us to continue being able

to impact lives. We’ve needed a lot of assistance in the last few months just to keep food on our shelves for those in the commu-

nity who need it. We can’t thank REMC enough for their support and for being a part of this village.”

Local students awarded scholarships

Chase Castillo of Pierceton has been awarded the Chaffee Family Endowed Scholarship at Manchester University. The Whitko High School graduate is majoring in business management professional sales Spanish at the campus in North Manchester.

This endowed scholarship fund was established in 2016 by Chuck Chaffee, Manchester class of 1964. A business administration major, Chaffee went on to found the BRC Rubber and Plastics company.

Alexander Wade of Warsaw has been awarded Baden, Gage & Schroeder Accounting Excellence Scholarship at Manchester University. The Carmel High School graduate is majoring in accounting at the campus in North Manchester.

Valerie Lopez of Warsaw has been awarded the David A. and

Rebecca B. Waas Scholarship at Manchester University. The Warsaw Community High School graduate is majoring in environmental studies at the campus in North Manchester. This endowed scholarship fund was established through the generosity of former students, family and other friends of David A. and Rebecca B. Waas. The scholarship was established to advance Manchester’s goals within its mission to develop an “international consciousness” in its students.

These ambitions reflect the Waases’ shared commitments to such values, demonstrated so clearly as they have introduced many students, faculty and alumni to different cultures throughout the world. Preference is given to student in good academic standing, who have an interest in international studies and who foster “a respect for ethnic cultural pluralism.”

Rex Addair of North Manchester has been awarded the Dr. Donald R. and Mrs. Carolyn S. Hardman Scholarship at Manchester University. A graduate of Manchester Senior High School, Addair is majoring in criminology at the campus in North Manchester. This endowed scholarship fund

was established by the children, family and friends of Donald and Carolyn Hardman in celebration of the couple’s 40th wedding anniversary in August 1999. He graduated from Manchester in 1959 and she graduated in 1961. This renewable scholarship is awarded with preference given to students from Huntington or Wabash counties in Indiana.

P UBLIC A UCTIONS

Online Real Estate Auction

6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 5. 19 EMS D16A1 Lane, Syracuse. Three bedroom, two bathroom home with full basement near Dewart Lake. Open kitchen, dining and living room, finished basement, deck and patio. bidmetzger.com. Auction Manager: Tim Pitts, (317) 714-0432.

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Real Estate Auction

Bidding starts 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 6. Deadline is 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9. Property located at 222 N. Buffalo St., Warsaw. Inspection at 4:30-6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 19. Two tracts in downtown Warsaw. Commercial office building with parking lot and adjacent parking lot. Owners Stephen and Carla Harris. Auction managers: Gary Bailey, (260) 417-4838; Phil Wolfe, (260) 248-1191. schraderauction.com.

KLT Realty Auction

10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 9. KLT Realty LLC, 1407 Elkhart Road, Goshen. Location: 14 blocks northwest of downtown square of Goshen on US 331. Hahn Auctioneers.

Online Real Estate Auction

8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25. Online at halderman.com. 275.09 acres located at northwest and northeast corners of the intersection of CR 450N and CR 300E, approximately 1 mile north on the west side of CR 300E. Ample road frontage with three irrigation units, one irrigation well and pipeline extending to all three tracts. Contact Jon Rosen, (260) 740-1846.

Kosciusko County 4-H brings hands-on STEM to the community

Recently, Kosciusko County 4-H, a division of Purdue Extension, spent time at local schools and afterschool settings delivering science, technology, engineering and mathematics lessons to students.

The 4-H Youth Development Educator for Kosciusko County, Andrew Ferrell, worked to secure a few partnerships in the community so students could get extra hands-on learning with STEM resources.

Ferrell’s small group of 4-H high school students helped teach STEM lessons to more than 50 fifth grade students at Milford School and more than 20 students at Baker Youth Club. The lessons touched on topics about chemical reactions, molecules, coding, robotics and 3-D printing.

“What’s great about these opportunities is that students get involved in hands-on learning and the classroom teachers get a chance for a break knowing it is

standards-based learning,” Ferrell commented.

Ferrell and his team of 4-H high school students have been practicing these lessons for a couple months in preparation for these events. Ferrell recruited students in the 4-H program who were looking to gain experience in the education field.

After Ferrell gathered a group of those students, he trained them to be “teachers” for these STEM events. All 4-H members involved

spent numerous hours preparing for the events and gained invaluable experience through the process.

“The idea is we have a group of high school students interested in potentially entering the education field of study, so we give them an opportunity to lead educator-guided lessons to younger youth. Additionally, the younger youth get hands-on learning with STEM tools and resources. It is a win-win situation,” Ferrell added.

4-H is a national organization that specializes in delivering hands-on activities in STEM and agriculture, healthy living and civic engagement to youth in local communities. 4-H is partnered with Purdue Extension in Indiana and is led by each county’s 4-H Youth Development Educator.

For more information about the STEM opportunity or 4-H in Kosciusko County, call (574) 3722340.

Tippecanoe Audubon Society to hold free birdwatching event

Tippecanoe Audubon Society will offer a relaxing holiday experience the whole family can enjoy, with a birdwatching event open to the public, 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 31, at Limitless Park, 1598 Park Ave., Winona Lake.

Telescopes and experienced observers will help you observe and identify waterfowl on Winona Lake, as well as other birds in the area. There is no charge to attend, and Limitless Park is handicapped-accessible.

The event is part of the annual Christmas bird count. Christmas

counts can occur between Dec. 14 and January. The data are used by scientists to understand how bird distributions change as climates shift.

The Audubon Christmas count is the world’s oldest and largest citizen science event in which nonscientists play an essential role. It has been held since 1900, and the local Tippecanoe Audubon chapter has been part of the effort since 1975.

For more information, contact Dave Hicks at (260) 982-2471 or djhicks@manchester.edu.