The Mail-Journal - January 4, 2023

Filing begins Jan. 4 for North Webster, Syracuse town elections

Election filing will begin Wednesday, Jan. 4, for candidates seeking positions in Syracuse and North Webster.

The office of clerk-treasurer and town council districts 3, 4 and 5 will be up for election in Syracuse.

All seats, including the office of clerktreasurer, are up for election in North Webster.

Candidate filings for the primary election for positions in Syracuse will begin Jan. 4 and end at noon Friday, Feb. 3. This is for Republican and Democrat candidates only. Should there be no contested filings for open positions, there will not be a primary.

Filings will also begin Jan. 4 for North Webster town elections for Republican, Democrat and Libertarian candidates. Filing will end at noon Tuesday, Aug. 1.

In Syracuse

All current officeholders in Syracuse are planning to seek reelection or seek a first term.

Virginia Cazier, clerk-treasurer, will

be seeking her first term. She was appointed to the position following the resignation of Paula Kehr-Wicker just over three years ago.

Also seeking a first term is current council board president, Cindy Kaiser, who represents District 3. She was appointed by caucus to replace Tom Hoover in October after he moved out of the district.

Both Larry Martindale, District 4, and Bill Musser, District 5, will seek reelection. Martindale is seeking his third term in office, while Musser is seeking his 10th term on the council.

Should no one file against the current officeholders for the May primary, there will not be a primary or general election held.

In North Webster

Lisa Strombeck, council member who has served since 2007, is the only officeholder in North Webster undecided about seeking reelection.

Leigh Anne Jessop, who was appoint-

ed in November, will seek her first term as clerk-treasurer.

Councilmen Dave Waliczek and Dan Thystrup will each seek reelection. Waliczek was first elected in 2015. Thystrup, initially chosen by caucus in 2018 to fill a vacancy, was elected to his first full term in 2019.

Ann Torpy, county clerk, explained for North Webster and other small town elections, a town convention may be held if more than one candidate files within a political party, for a clerk-treasurer’s position or town council seat. The party will make a candidate selection from those candidates.

Should there then be a contested race between the parties within a town — for example, three council seats available with three from one party, and one or more from the other parties — an election will be held in November. However, if there are only enough candidates who file for those seats available, no election will be held.

North Webster Town Council claims successful 2022

planned resignation earlier in the year. Luce had served in the role for 19 years.

The North Webster Town Council wrapped up its 2022 year by welcoming new leadership into its town hall. Leigh Anne Jessop was officially sworn in as the town’s new clerk-treasurer during the council’s final meeting Tuesday, Dec. 20.

Jessop was chosen by the Kosciusko County Democrat Party to replace longtime clerk Betsy Luce, who announced her

The council, consisting of President Dan Thystrup, Lisa Strombeck and Dave Waliczek, addressed numerous issues throughout 2022. Thystrup pointed to three major accomplishments as the highlights of the year.

“We are continuing to progress with our bike trail and sidewalk project that will connect North Webster to Wawasee Middle

School,” he said.

The project is estimated to cost $2.5 million. The town would be responsible for paying for 25% of the cost, while the state would pay the balance. Last summer, the town received a $200,000 K21 Health Foundation grant toward the cost. The council continues to work on additional grants to fund the remainder of the town’s financial contribution to the project.

Another major accomplishment for the council was the receipt of a $545,109.60 Community Cross-

ings matching grant, a component of the Governor’s Next Level Roads program. Similar grants were issued across the Hoosier state for the modernization and improvement of transportation infrastructure. The town intends to use its money to fund the repavement and improvement of several streets.

Thystrup noted the third major success of the 2022 council was the replacement of a few major pieces of equipment and infra-

County redevelopment commission discusses next steps for proposed TIF

The Kosciusko County Redevelopment Commission discussed their current standing on and next steps for the South Shore residential TIF and proposed Etna Green residential TIF at their Tuesday, Jan. 3, meeting.

TIF or tax increment financing districts allow tax revenues to be captured and used for a specific

purpose. As Etna Green does not have their own redevelopment commission, the proposed Etna Green TIF is the responsibility of the county commission to oversee.

The Etna Green project is a roughly 20- to 30-acre project, adjacent to Heritage Park, that has already received approval from the Triton School Board.

Redevelopment Commission

Attorney Adam Turner stated that the next steps for both proj-

ects will be on a tight timeline as the area plan commission meeting is Wednesday, Jan. 4, and the APC will receive a copy of the declaratory resolution, the residential development plan and create a resolution of their own to decide if the proposed Etna Green TIF will proceed.

The resolutions will appear back in front of the redevelopment commission at the ThursContinued on page 2

Milford Council closes out 2022

On Thursday, Dec. 29, Milford Town Council held an end-of-the-year meeting to tie up loose ends from 2022, including encumbering funds over to 2023.

The council also approved the 2023 schedule for monthly public meetings: 7 p.m. every second Monday of the month in the Milford Community Building, 111 S. Main St.

The council discussed at length whether or not to enter into an agreement with Paymentus Online Portal, which would allow Milford utilities users a wider range of payment options and to elect to have bills emailed. The town would also receive payment the next day rather than waiting two or three days. The fee for electronic transactions would be $2.25 per transaction.

The council voted to pursue a contract with Paymentus; however, final approval will hinge on integration fees to be paid to Boyce Systems, Milford’s payment software provider, which have yet to be determined.

The council decided not to voice objections in the matter of a large garage with alley access at 403 W. Catherine St., Milford, set to come before the Board of Zoning Appeals.

Following the discussion, President Doug Ruch said he may have found a candidate to represent Milford on the BZA and hopes to confirm the agreement before the Jan. 9 council meeting. The council is also seeking someone to replace Charlotte Siegfried on the Milford Redevelopment Commission.

A utility credit of $92 was granted in the case of a home where roughly 3,000 gallons was used in one day when the owners were not home. The average monthly amount is roughly 1,500 gallons. Clerk/Treasurer Tricia Gall will instead average the monthly charge over the last six months.

The following motions were also approved on Dec. 29:

• Full-time Milford employees will receive a 4% raise as part of the 2023 salary ordinance.

• Funds will be encumbered for payments previously approved to USI Consultants, Beer and Slabaugh and Foyle Plumbing.

• The CEDIT Resolution 2022-7 approved the use of CEDIT funds for new pagers for fire and police, fencing around the wastewater plant, wastewater plant pond closure, new water pipes in the Milford Fire Station and improvements to Lutheran EMS quarters in the Milford Community Building.

Brad Jackson to serve as commissioners’ president

Brad Jackson will serve as Kosciusko County Commissioners’ president for 2023.

The commissioners reorganized for the year in its first meeting of 2023 on Tuesday, Jan. 3, in the Kosciusko County Courthouse’s Old Courtroom. They also opted to make Bob Conley vice president.

In other business at a very brief meeting, commissioners:

Approved an encroachment agreement for Dr. Rick Davis’ property on Lot 5 in Warren Subdivision on Diamond Lake. The address is 5307 W. Warren Ave., Silver Lake.

Approved a $25,216 quoted emergency replacement of a control console on a generator for the Kosciusko County Justice Building and courthouse.

Approved a letter of support for North Webster regarding the town’s desire to connect a trail north to Syracuse. North Webster is still working on planning the trail.

Heard from new Kosciusko County Auditor Rhonda Helser during her regular report time she was “glad to be here and work with ... all of you for the next four years.”

The commissioners’ next meeting is 9 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 17, in the Old Courtroom.

Town of Syracuse tackling a number of projects in 2023

The town of Syracuse will be continuing a number of projects from 2022 this year, according to David Wilkinson, town manager.

The completion of the new ball park on Kern Road is highly anticipated. Wilkinson said getting the ball park completed and hosting a grand opening in the spring is just one of the projects the town is working on.

due to the large amount of rain the area received in the fall the grass got a good start before the winter set in. He believes the ball park should be open in the spring in time for Little League season.

Other projects include replacing the lift station in Oakwood Park and putting in a new waterline at Lakeside Drive. Wilkinson said the new waterline should help in improving the water pressure in the area.

was not completed last year due to issues with CSX providing permission for work in the area of the tracks.

The town will also be conducting a study about rehabilitating the municipal parking lots across from the Syracuse Public Library and on Dolan Street. The study will look at pedestrian access, lights, landscaping, possible charging stations for electric vehicles, landscaping and more obvious signage.

During the Dec. 20 Town Council meeting, Chad Jonsson, park superintendent, said

Following a special year-end meeting Dec. 29, Milford Town Council President Doug Ruch briefly enumerated important developments from 2022, all of which will continue to unfold in 2023 and beyond.

These included the funding and future construction of a trail connecting downtown Milford and Waubee Lake Park, the annexation of North Park and the Zimmerman property, and the planning of a 50-house residential development within that annexed area.

In addition, Ruch highlighted the council’s responsibility to “continue to keep the people of Milford safe ... and to enhance utility and emergency services.”

Speaking earlier in the year, Ruch noted the annexation would benefit both the residents of North Park — with reduced utilities and homeowners insurance — and the town, though financial benefits to the town from taxes will not be seen for a few years.

As the year came to an end, the committee chosen to oversee new residential development, along with Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation and Miller

Brothers Builders of Goshen, was in the process of compiling a list of topics to discuss with the Kosciusko Area Plan Commission, including sidewalks, lights, streets, appropriate easements and necessary utility upgrades for the development.

In March, Milford was awarded $978,000 — its share of the Kosciusko County HELP grant — and went on to hire USI Consultants to assist with the design phase of the trail project, which will begin in 2023.

An ongoing concern has been Milford’s aging water/wastewater infrastructure, and in 2022 an Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs grant for $90,000 was allocated for a master utility study, which will aid both in identifying necessary upgrades and receiving future grants to pay for them.

Milford’s wastewater department also checked off a major item on its to-do list by completing the Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s mandated cleanup of retention ponds used before the construction of the wastewater plant.

In the realm of community events, Clerk/Treasurer Tricia Gall was instrumental in the creation of a wildly successful

new event, Meet Milford’s Food Truck Fridays, along with Sierra Clark-Kern, Angie Deak and Karena Wilkinson.

Over the summer, the third Friday of the month saw Milford’s downtown inundated with crowds, which came to enjoy food, arts and entertainment.

“I’m really excited by the support we got from the community,” said Gall. The founders are now in the process of devising new themes for the coming year, which will then dictate the events they plan for 2023.

Gall is also excited at the recent decision to provide the online Paymentus Portal, which she said will provide the electronic delivery of bills and “better customer service” overall.

Council member Ken Long had a busy year as a member of the housing committee and liaison, along with Gall, to the county’s Forward Kosciusko campaign. “I just want us to keep us moving forward ... and continue to maintain the best level of service we can,” he said. Long also praised town employees — “the people who do the day-to-day work” — for their dedication in providing those services.

Tippecanoe and Chapman Sewer District celebrates a successful year

Tippecanoe and Chapman Regional Sewer District  made monumental progress in 2022 on the new septic elimination project, which has been merely a topic of discussion since the 1990’s.

The need for a conservancy system has been discussed for

structure components. He said the council was able to save substantial money through research and hard work by the town’s employees.

Additionally, earlier in the year Inframark Utilities Manager Jayne Alger announced her resignation. She was replaced by former Syracuse Town Manager Mike Noe, who is now responsible for the town’s utilities and street department.

2022 also marked the inaugural year for the Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory. Town council members Strombeck and Waliczek serve on the fire territory board, along with representatives of the Tippecanoe Township advisory board.

decades, but the project received a push from individuals living in the area between 2016 and 2017.

Around that time, through a petition, the percentage of stakeholders who wished to be part of the project reached an optimal number.

Planning, studies and the formation of the board laid the foundation for the project not long after.

This project is now entirely off the ground despite setbacks by COVID-19 in 2020, which Jones Petrie Rafinski CEO Ken Jones referenced earlier this year.

“We probably bid the project in one of the worst economic conditions that we could have; however, our partnerships with the funding agencies didn’t allow us to introduce any delay, so we kept pushing forward,” he said.

The $51 million project is one of the largest — if not the largest — infrastructure projects to occur in Kosciusko County.

At the beginning of last year, the board was still working out project logistics such as design, formulating a rate analysis and funding.

In December, a groundbreaking ceremony was held at Pump Station No. 2 where board members, funding agencies and other sup-

porters of the project gathered to celebrate the beginning of construction.

There was a significant amount of work performed between the board, engineering team and other affiliated companies to ensure the project moved forward rapidly throughout 2022.

As of now, production is underway in the Chapman Lake area, crews are actively making progress in the West Tippecanoe area and work in the East Tippecanoe area will be commencing this month.

“We have first class contractors on this project, I don’t think the board could be happier with our engineering team,”  said Board President Jon Tyler.  While the project may take time to complete, the board is confident they will make substantial progress in the new year.

“2023 will be all about the construction. We have two contractors working simultaneously under three contracts to get the infrastructure in place,” Tyler stated.

The project will likely take until 2024 to complete entirely, so most of the board’s focus will be directed to on-the-ground operations, customer hookups and making payments through the new year.

Looking for a doctor in North Webster? Goshen Physicians has announced the grand opening of a new family medicine office located in the North Webster Community Center.

An open house will be held from 5-7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 16, at NWCC, 301 N. Main St., Suite 121, North Webster. People may tour the new facility and enjoy light refreshments.

The 1,100-square-foot primary care office will include three exam rooms and a phlebotomy room for

The railroad crossing at Main Street and Railroad Drive was supposed to be finished in 2022.

Wilkinson explained the project

Milford Council looks to ‘keep moving forward’ in 2023 New North Webster medical office to host open house

quick and convenient lab testing. Future expansion plans include adding a procedure room and additional clinic space.

“As we at North Webster Community Center further our mission to engage in meaningful activities and promote healthy lifestyles, we feel that starts with preventative care and education,” said Emily Worrell, NWCC executive director.

“Our partnership with Goshen Health is a huge step in creating a sustainable future for our community members, town and our

The last big project the town will be undertaking this year is the exterior painting of the north water tower.

County redevelopment

Continued from page 1 spoke in favor of the South Shore residential TIF with no opposition.

day, March 9, meeting. This is the point at which the proposal may receive the designation of residential TIF.

The South Shore project is located near the former South Shore golf course and is intended to be a residential area. KEDCO project director Terry Sweeney

There was no mention of new information regarding the South Shore TIF.

In other business, the commission: Reinstated Joni Truex as president, Jan Orban as vice president,

organization. We couldn’t be more thrilled with the addition and opportunities they bring for all of us.”

The open house is free and open to the public. The entrance is behind the building.

The public will also have an opportunity to meet Dr. Chelsea Wolf. Wolf will offer comprehensive health care for patients of all ages. Wolf is now welcoming new patients. Patients can call (574) 244-0148 to schedule an appointment.

and Doug Hanes as secretary. Renewed a contract with Turner with the conditions of a $2,000 retainer and rate of $200 per hour.

Planned to coordinate a meeting with KEDCO representatives, Hanes and Truex for further discussion on creating an agreement.

Syracuse parks department looks to the future

The Syracuse Parks and Recreation Department has been busy this past year. Several projects have started and some have been completed.

One of the biggest projects is the new ball field, Schrock Fields. Work on the project began in the fall of 2021.

Chad Jonsson, park superintendent, said the project is nearing completion. The new ball field is 26 acres. So far, a majority of the work has been finished. The work is being performed by Beer and Slabaugh. “There’s still little stuff to be

done,” said Jonsson, “like an entry arch and gates.”

Amenities at the new complex will include four baseball and softball fields, a football field, playground, paved walking path and a basketball court.

The new Harold Schrock Fields is located along Kern Road, south of the Wawasee High School.

Another big project in 2023 will include improvements to Ward Park. New restrooms and a pavilion are proposed for the park. Jonsson said the project may start this year depending on grants and funding.

“That would be our biggest project this year,” he said. “We’ve also added new signs at Veterans Memorial Park.”

Numerous diseased and

dead trees have been removed, and others have been planted around town. So far, more than 90 trees have been planted: 50 around the community and 40 at the public works department site.

The year was packed with many activities and events, including Breakfast with Santa, indoor garage sales, fall festival and a basketball league. Most of these events take place at the Syracuse Community Center.

The Syracuse Parks and Recreation Board meets at 5:30 p.m. the second Monday of each month at the Syracuse Community Center. Call (574) 4573440 or visit syracusein.org for more information and upcoming events.

Tippecanoe and Chapman Regional Sewer District public notice of monthly board meeting

Notice is hereby given that the Board of Trustees of the Tippecanoe and Chapman Regional Sewer District will hold their monthly board meeting at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9, in the Banquet Hall at the North Webster Community Center, 301 N. Main St., North Webster.

The public is also invited to attend in person or electronically

via Zoom.

Log in information as follows: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/24481 1872?pwd=ZklJZkJIRWFCSVhSU DRXMTZJVzUrZz09

Meeting ID: 244 811 872

Passcode: 041891

Phone: (312) 626-6799 Meeting ID: 244 811 872

Passcode: 041891

Obituaries

Sharon L. Line

Former Bartender

Sharon

Born in Leesburg on May 12, 1935, Sharon was the daughter of Herbert F. and Martha A. (Jefferies) Metge, both of whom preceded her in death. She was a graduate of North Webster High School and was married to the late Joseph M. Line on Dec. 31, 1971; he too preceded her in January of 2012.

Sharon was a hard worker, spending much of her working life in the service industry. Many would remember her from bartending and serving at the VFW and the Sleepy Owl.

More personally, Sharon is remembered for her good sense of humor, her stubborn streak and her ability to make friends with seemingly anyone. She was kind, giving and energetic. She was an amazing cook and mother. She liked to mushroom hunt, fish and visit with friends.

In addition to her friends and many customers over the years, those who survive with memories to cherish include a daughter, Rachelle Linn Johnson Hooker of Warsaw; three grandchildren, Michael, Robbie and Ashley; and seven great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, Sharon is preceded in death by son, Gary Johnson; an infant son; and a grandson, Shaun Mast.

The family is grieving privately. No services will be held at this time though a memorial service is in the planning stages for spring 2023. Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse is entrusted with Sharon’s care.

In lieu of flowers, well-wishers should consider gifts to either American Legion Post 253 or Wounded Warriors Project.

Written condolences may be left at www.titusfuneralhome.com.

Phillip Fetters

Phillip Fetters, 72, Kendallville, died Friday, Dec. 30, 2022.

Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of North Webster.

Barbara Frye

Barbara Frye, 57, died unexpectedly Saturday, Dec. 31, 2022, in her home.

Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse.

Health department urges parents to have children tested for lead under new law

The Indiana Department of Health is encouraging all parents to have their children younger than age 6 tested for lead exposure as part of legislation taking effect Jan. 1.

House Enrolled Act 1313 requires all healthcare providers serving children to offer lead testing to their patients, ideally at their 1-and 2-year checkups, or as close as possible to those appointments. Providers also are advised to offer testing to any child younger than age 6 who does not have a record of a prior blood lead test. Previously, only Indiana children covered by Medicaid were required to be tested for lead at ages 12 and 24 months.

“There is no safe level of lead, and the sooner we can identify that a child is at risk, the earlier we can take steps to improve the health outcomes for that child,” said State Health Commissioner Kris Box, M.D., FACOG. “By having parents and providers understand the importance of asking for this simple blood test, we have an opportunity to protect hundreds of Indiana children each year from the harmful effects of lead.”

Lead exposure can damage the brain and nervous system, causing slowed growth and development, learning and behavior problems, issues with hearing and speech, impulsivity, nausea and other debilitating effects. It is more toxic to unborn and younger children but can negatively impact adults as well. Early intervention, including proper nutrition and removal of sources of lead exposure, can lower lead levels in individuals.

Most lead poisoning in Indiana stems from chipping or peeling lead paint mixing with dust in the air. Other common sources of lead are contaminated soil, drinking water and, occasionally, children’s toys and jewelry.

IDOH is launching a public awareness campaign to bring attention to the importance of this testing with a new website, IndianaLeadFree.org, and messaging to the public and providers in communities across the state.

In addition, IDOH is partnering with the NAACP and Hoosier Environmental Council to conduct community outreach through the Health Issues and

Challenges Grant program, which awarded $900,000 in 2022 for community-based lead prevention and awareness programming. The two organizations are developing plans for outreach in counties including La Porte, Madison, Clinton, Allen, Grant, Vanderburgh, Marion, Clark, St. Joseph and Lake.

The universal screening law follows last July’s move to lower Indiana’s blood lead reference level to 3.5 micrograms/deciliter to align with levels established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Under these new guidelines, children with blood lead levels between 3.5 and 4.9 micrograms per deciliter and their families receive education about risks and are advised to test siblings.

Children with a confirmed level of 5 or above are enrolled in case management, and families of these children are encouraged to allow health department staff to do a home risk assessment. This assessment involves discussing potentially leaded objects and surfaces and identifying what educational, nutritional and developmental support services may be available to the child. The home assessment will also test surfaces to determine where lead hazards may exist and help the family determine how to best address those.

Visit the Indiana Department of Health at www.health.in.gov for important health and safety information, or follow them on Twitter at @StateHealthIN and on Facebook at facebook.com/ StateHealthIN.

Monetta A. Gray

Former School Cafeteria Employee

Monetta A. Gray, Syracuse, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Saturday, Dec. 31, 2022, at the age of 84.

Born in Warsaw on Jan. 15, 1938, she was the daughter of Aurlie and Georgia (Hoover) Zorn. On Sept. 11, 1955, Monetta was united in marriage to Joe Gray. She attended Pierceton Schools and went on to be self-employed for many years. Monetta later worked in the school cafeteria at Syracuse Elementary School. Together, Monetta and Joe spent their lives in Kosciusko County raising their seven children.

Monetta and Joe were longtime members of North Webster Church of God, where they regularly attended their Joy meetings. She loved making people feel loved and happy. Monetta belonged to “Light up your Life Clowns,” where she would perform for children’s birthday parties and other special events.

She was filmed in the movie, “My Elusive Mychelle,” produced by her good friend Ken Strong. In her spare time, Monetta enjoyed crocheting, cooking and baking. She made baby blankets and several items of clothing for those she loved. Monetta and Joe enjoyed traveling with their children to places such as fishing in Canada and visiting Michigan, Mount Rushmore, Niagara Falls, Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon and Denver. She will be truly missed by those who loved her.

Along with her husband of 67 years, Joe, those who survive include her children, Becky Gray of Ligonier, Mark Gray of Etna Green, Dawn King of Goshen, Teresa Mann of unknown and Monaca Wallace of Lansing, Mich.; 16 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and brother, Max Zorn. She is further survived by many extended family members and friends.

She was preceded in passing by her parents; daughters, Beth Annette Gray and Debra Gray McCain; sisters, Jerry Bays and Patricia Miller; and brother, Ted Zorn.

Titus Funeral Home is entrusted with the care of Monetta. Friends and family may gather from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11, at Owen Family Funeral Home of Syracuse, 1001 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, with doors opening at 1 p.m.

To leave a condolence or send flowers, please visit www.titusfuneralhome.com.

Priscilla Lee Morris

Longtime Member Of North Webster Church Of God

Priscilla Lee Morris, 86, a resident of Dewart Lake, passed away quietly at home in the loving care of her family on Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2022.

Born in Alexandria on July 12, 1936, Priscilla was the daughter of Hollis and Lois (Hull) Clark. She was a 1954 graduate of Alexandria Monroe High School, where she met the love of her life, Earl Morris; the pair married on July 1, 1955, and spent more than 67 years together before her passing.

Priscilla was a longtime member of North Webster Church of God and previously of Alexandria First Baptist Church. She enjoyed crochet, knitting, tole painting and is remembered for her homemade chicken and noodles.

More than anything, Priscilla enjoyed time spent with her family. She and her husband also wintered in Estero, Fla., for more than 22 years.

In addition to her husband, Earl Morris, those who survive with memories to cherish include daughter, Jeni (husband, Mat) Pritchard of Syracuse; and two grandchildren, Sara and Jared Pritchard, both of Syracuse. She was preceded in death by daughter, Kathy O’Lesek; parents, Hollis and Lois Clark; and sister, Rebecca Chambers.

Titus Funeral Home, Owen Chapel of Syracuse is entrusted with care of the Morris family who are grieving privately at this time. No public services are planned.

Those wishing to express their sympathy should consider giving to a Christian charity of the donor’s choosing.

Written condolences may be left at www.titusfuneralhome.com.

Rosemarie Long

Former Ace Pest Control Office Manager

Rosemarie Long, a longtime resident of Syracuse, passed away in the loving care of her family in the early hours of Thursday, Dec. 29, 2022, at Lutheran Life Village, Kendallville. She was 91 years old.

Paula K. Searfoss, 74, longtime resident of Syracuse, passed away at home on Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2022, in the loving care of her family.

Born in Goshen on Nov. 16, 1948, she was the daughter of the late Paul and Ruth (Schrock) Kerlin. She was a 1967 graduate of Syracuse High School, going on to earn a bachelor’s degree in physical education from Ball State University.

Paula was quite witty with an infectious laugh and a beaming smile. She had a great love for her family, the outdoors and all things sports. She was on the coaching staff of Wawasee Tennis for several years and gave private tennis lessons to many of her friends. She was an avid reader and a fabulous storyteller. More than any of these things, she was a mother, a wife, daughter, sister and grandmother with a heart for others and for Christ. She was a faithful follower of Jesus, attended Glory Church, where she was blessed to be a member along with her dearest friends.

Married to Robert “RT” Searfoss on Aug. 14, 1971, RT and Paula shared more than 51 years together. In addition to her husband, RT of Syracuse, six children survive, Olivia Searfoss of Union Pier, Mich., Audra Bowler-Searfoss of Fort Wayne, Margo Searfoss of Syracuse, Myra Nissley of Milford, Tyson Searfoss of Syracuse and Charlotte Searfoss of Syracuse; siblings, Doug (Linda) Kerlin of Kimmel and Diane Williams of Tellico Village, Tenn.; four grandchildren, Stella Bowler, Sophia DeOliveira, Brody Nissley and Weston Nissley; and one great-grandson, Ezra.

In addition to her parents, Paula was preceded in passing by an infant son, Drew Searfoss.

The family will be grieving privately. Final interment will be at Syracuse Cemetery; a memorial service is in the planning stages. Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse is entrusted with arrangements.

Memorial gifts may be given to Kosciusko County Cancer Care Fund, c/o K21 Health Foundation.

Born May 16, 1931, in Fowler, “Rosie,” as many knew her, was the daughter of the late Med H. and Edna S. (Lord) Patnaude. She was a graduate of Fowler High School and went on to attend the South Bend College of Commerce. She was married to Howard E. Long Jr., who most knew as “Red.” Red and Rosie spent many happy years together before his passing on April 28, 2003 — 13 days after their 52nd anniversary.

Having learned the value of hard work at an early age, Rosie spent many years working at Ace Pest Control. She managed the office, HR concerns and served in several positions including secretary, controller and vice president. In their younger years, she and Red were owner/operators of the former Indiana Suburban Insurance agency.

Rosie enjoyed gardening and loved flowers; she always had fresh flowers in the family home. She also enjoyed traveling and knitting, giving her projects away as gifts or donating them. She canned, baked, read and did puzzles, but she loved to cook. Rosie was always trying new recipes. No meal was complete in her kitchen without dessert.

A good listener with quiet strength, Rosie loved her family dearly. She loved the Lord and was a longtime member of St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church, Syracuse, where Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 4. Interment will take place following cremation at Syracuse Cemetery. A memorial service is in the planning stages for the spring.

In addition to her husband, Red, those who preceded Rosie in passing include a brother, Howard Patnaude; daughter-in-law, Sharadene “Sheree” Long; and sister-in-law, Beulah Patnaude.

Those who survive with memories to cherish include four children: daughters, Sheryl (Gerald) Cappert of Middlebury, Valerie Shipley of Syracuse and Angela (Tony Fowler) Long of Greenfield; son, Greg Long of Syracuse; 11 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and a brother, Raymond Patnaude.

Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services is entrusted with care of the Long family. Written condolences may be left for the family at www.titusfuneralhome.com while memorial gifts may be directed to Lutheran Life Villages of Kendallville with “Diamond Ave” in the memo line.

L. Line, 87, longtime resident of the North Webster and Syracuse areas, passed away Monday, Dec. 26, 2022, at Mason Health and Rehabilitation, Warsaw.

Paula K. Searfoss Wawasee Tennis Coach

Accidents/Incidents

Kosciusko County

Officers with the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office investigated the following accident and incidents:

Accident

8:24 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 27, East Armstrong Road, west of North CR 450E, Leesburg.

Driver: Sarah L. Olds, 30, East Levi Lee Road, Warsaw. Olds lost control of her vehicle going around the curve due to icy road conditions, causing the vehicle to leave the roadway and come to rest against a tree. Olds complained of neck and back pain but was not transported. Damage up to $5,000.

Incidents

9:17 a.m. Friday, Dec. 30, 300 block East Camp Mack Road, Milford. Officers investigated a report of an animal bite.

1:33 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, 9700 block East Bald Eagle Drive, Cromwell. Officers investigated a report of domestic battery.

9:22 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 27, 10000 block North Schenkel Drive, Milford. Tony G. Zimmerman reported identity documents stolen.

7:48 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 27, 200 block East Huntington Street, North Webster. Christina Nicole Santos Burke reported an incident of theft or fraud. Loss of $150.

2:09 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 22, 1000 block North Rainey Road E., Syracuse. Angelica Galbreath-Englis reported identity documents stolen.

8:49 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21, 4000 block North SR 13, Leesburg. Report of theft. Value: $25.

Milford

Officers with the Milford Police Department investigated the following accident and incident: Accident 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28, Emeline and James streets, Milford. Driver: Adrianna J. Wray, 46, 204 S. James St., Milford. Wray was backing up on East Emeline Street and struck the railroad crossing sign. Damage up to $2,500.

Incident 4:05 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, 400 block West Fourth Street, Milford. Randall Miller reported a theft from his business. Value: $6,800.

North Webster

Officers with the North Webster Police Department investigated the following incident: Incident 9:33 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, 100 block East Esterbrook Drive, North Webster. Officers investigated a report of a family fight.

Syracuse

Officers with the Syracuse Police Department investigated the following accidents and incidents: Accidents 5:31 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28, South Huntington Street, Syracuse. Driver: Kylie Carpenter, 25,

South Lakeshore Drive, Mentone. Carpenter was driving her vehicle into a parking space but when she applied the brakes, the vehicle did not stop, hitting a pillar on a building. Damage up to $1,000.

1:56 p.m. Monday, Dec. 26, East CR 1300N, Syracuse. Driver: Derek E. Bontrager, 17, West CR 1250N, Milford. Bontrager lost control of his vehicle due to ice on the roadway, going off the road, hitting a fence and trees owned by Sara J. Cotton, Syracuse. Damage up to $5,000.

2:18 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 25, East Pickwick Drive, east of South Huntington Street, Syracuse.

Drivers: Lisa A. Yarbrough, 57, Treva Drive, Greensboro, N.C.; and Jeffery D. Conrad, 33, East Northshore Drive, Syracuse. Yarbrough was attempting to turn her vehicle but was not able to do so due to road conditions and hit the side of the Conrad vehicle. Damage up to $2,500.

12:13 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 25, North Parkway Drive, south of West Carroll Street, Syracuse.

Drivers: Gerardo Sanchez, 31, North Parkway Drive, Syracuse; and Thomas W. Kennedy, 62, North Dolan Drive, Syracuse.

Sanchez parked his vehicle on the street while the driveway was being plowed. Kennedy was unaware the vehicle was left on the street, and while plowing struck the driver’s side of Sanchez’s vehicle. Damage up to $1,000.

10:05 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 24, North Indiana Avenue, south of East County Line Road, Syracuse. Drivers: Kevin G. Hurfless, 59, East Roger Court, Syracuse; and Alisa L. Byrd, 22, East Bayview Drive, Syracuse. Hurfless entered his vehicle onto Indiana Avenue from County Line Road after observing the turn signal activated on Byrd’s vehicle. However, Byrd’s vehicle began to slide and was unable to complete the turn, hitting Hurfless’ vehicle.

Damage up to $2,500. Incidents

3:15 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 31, 900 block North Mill Street, Syracuse. Susan Monroe reported a stolen license plate.

No time listed, Wednesday, Dec. 28, 900 block South Huntington Street, Syracuse. Alicia Gison, Roxbury Park, Goshen, reported sending money to an individual for a dog, but never received the dog.

2:37 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 22, 700 block North Dolan Drive, Syracuse. Police were notified of an assault following a dispute between two individuals.

6:38 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21, 300 block North Harrison Street. Police were called to a domestic dispute.

1:01 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 20, 200 block Easy Baltimore Street, Syracuse. Christina D. Golden, EMS D21C Lane, Syracuse, reported items taken from a shed on Baltimore Street. Missing were a television, air compressor, clothes, generator, bicycle, golf clubs, slalom ski and vacuum.

Value: $2,430. 10:57 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 20, 300 block North Huntington Street, Syracuse. Suzanne Brock, EMS D1 Lane, Syracuse, reported potential fraud.

Warsaw

Officers with the Warsaw Police Department investigated the following accidents: Accidents 12:41 p.m. Monday, Jan. 2, SR 15, south of Jalynn Street, Warsaw. Drivers: Dana K. Landry, 65, EMS T14 Lane, Leesburg; and Melissa J. Coy, 38, EMS B18 Lane, Pierceton. Landry was making a right turn at a red light when she hit Coy’s vehicle. Damage up to $10,000.

1:03 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28, North SR 15, near Jalynn Street, Warsaw. Drivers: Amber N. Hunsberger, 31, US 6, Syracuse; and Heather Carty, 48, North CR 100E, Warsaw. Hunsberger’s vehicle rear-ended Carty’s vehicle. Carty complained of neck pain but declined treatment at the scene. Damage up to $10,000.

6:36 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 27, SR 15, south of West CR 250N, Warsaw. Drivers: Joyce E. Garman, 74, West Country Drive, Leesburg; and Nicole L. Poucher, 43, EMS B51A Lane, Warsaw. Garman’s vehicle hit the back of Poucher’s. Damage up to $5,000.

Jail Bookings

Kosciusko County

The following people were booked in Kosciusko County Jail: Jan. 2 — Charles D. Stiver, 48, 6792 E. 950N, Syracuse, booked for possession of methamphetamine and possession of paraphernalia. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

Jan. 1 — Christopher A. Phillips, 35, 3517 E. 1000N, Syracuse, booked for possession of cocaine or narcotic drug and operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

Dec. 31 — Chester J. Myers, 44, 201 Turkey Creek Drive, Milford, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Bond: $700 cash.

Dec. 30 — Gary Alan Schlemmer, 64, 4241 E. 450N No. 3, Leesburg, booked for battery, operating a vehicle while intoxicated, and possession of methamphetamine. Bond: $500 cash.

Dec. 30 — Amanda Suzanne Zachary, 43, 5903 E. 500N, Leesburg, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated — prior and refusal to submit to a chemical test. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

Dec. 29 — Ethel Faye Baldridge, 18, 109 W. Emeline St., Milford, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated, possession of paraphernalia, possession of marijuana/hash oil/ hashish and minor in possession of alcohol. Bond: $700 cash.

Dec. 29 — Zachary Allen Evett, 27, 9736 N. Seneca Lane, Cromwell, booked for theft. Bond: $600 cash.

Letter to the editor

North Webster Food Pantry board and volunteers thankful for community support

Dear Editor:

As the year 2022 comes to a close and a new year begins, the board membership and volunteers of the North Webster Food Pantry are able to look back on the old year with satisfaction only because of the 110% support that you have provided — individual families, the social

organizations, business community, as well as the local political leadership. Thank you.

This past year has been difficult for all of us, but especially so for the unemployed and underemployed. Because of such great community support, the pantry was able to provide nutritional support, including

We welcome readers’ letters.

dairy, meat, fruit and vegetables to those requesting it.

As a group, the Food Pantry board and volunteers consider it a great privilege to be available to help our neighbors.

Again, a sincere and grateful “Thank you.”

The North Webster Food Pantry Board of Directors

Our requirements are as follows: Letters must be written to the editor, not the public. They must be signed with full name in ink. Signature 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. Emailed letters will be accepted but the above information must be included.

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 Mail-Journal, P. O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542 or dpatterson@the-papers.com.

IHCDA seeks volunteers to count Hoosiers experiencing homelessness

The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority and partner agencies across the state are seeking volunteers to conduct a onenight Point-In-Time count of the homeless population. Volunteers are needed in every county on Jan. 25 to help conduct the count.

Those interested in volunteering can register at form.jotform.com/223255280076049. Upon registering, IHCDA’s Homeless Management Information Systems team will connect those individuals, groups, or organizations interested in participating with their local PIT coordinator(s).

There will be a volunteer webinar at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11. Registration links will be provided by your local PIT coordinator(s). Those interested in volunteering, but unable to attend the PIT volunteer webinar, will have the information made available through their regional PIT Coordinators, prior to participating in the count. Volunteers must register no later than Jan. 20.

“Collaboration at the state, regional and local levels are important in the fight to end homelessness here in Indiana,” said Jacob Sipe, executive director of IHCDA. “We are proud to collaborate with many great partners who share IHCDA’s mission of providing housing opportunities, promoting selfsufficiency and strengthening communities.”

The PIT Count is a census of all unsheltered and sheltered persons experiencing homelessness in the Indiana Balance of State Continuum of Care, consisting of 91 of the

Stay safe, always assume you are on ‘thin ice’

With the inevitable upcoming drop in temperatures across the state, Indiana Conservation Officers advise Hoosiers and visitors of the potential hazards of being on frozen lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams.

It’s also important to keep a watchful eye for other people who may venture out on neighborhood retention ponds, lakes and, other waterways and find themselves in trouble.

Every winter, thousands of Hoosiers safely enjoy fishing, skating, hiking, or just sliding around on frozen ponds and lakes. And every year, people drown after falling through ice. Don’t let this happen to you or yours.

Similar to needing to drive differently on snowy versus clear roads, being able to safely have fun on ice may require adjusting what you have done in the past. When thinking about getting on the ice, put safety first. Believe all ice is thin ice unless proven otherwise.

Here are a few tips to remember when considering standing on or walking on a frozen body of water:

• No ice is safe ice.

• Before going on the ice, leave a note of your whereabouts with a friend or family member.

• If you don’t know the thickness of the ice, don‘t go on it.

• Don’t test the thickness of the ice while alone.

• Test the thickness of the ice with an ice auger. At least 4 inches of ice is recommended for ice fishing; 5 inches is recommended for snowmobiling.

• Carry ice hooks and rope gear.

• Wear a life jacket or flotation coat.

Wearing a life jacket is especially important when on ice. If you fall through, a life jacket will keep your head above the water until help arrives.

Remember that a new coating of snow, while perhaps beautiful, can make for treacherous ice conditions. Snow can serve as insulation, causing water to freeze at a slower rate. When snow and rain freeze into ice, it is not as strong as solid, clear ice.

Another potentially dangerous situation is when you see a pet or other animal in distress on the ice. If that happens, do not go af-

ter it. Instead, contact local emergency response personnel, who are equipped to make a rescue.

A few more tips:

• Some bodies of water can appear to be frozen solid but have thin ice in several potentially unexpected areas.

• Flowing water, such as rivers and streams, should be avoided

when covered by a layer of ice.

• Similarly, water that is surrounded by sand may freeze with inconsistencies in the thickness of the ice.

• Underground springs, wind, waterfowl, and other animals can also keep areas of ice thin.

Enjoy the winter weather but make safety a priority.

state’s 92 counties. Marion County coordinates their own count. The sheltered count is conducted at emergency shelters, transitional housing and safe haven projects across the 91 counties and 16 regions that comprise the Indiana BOS. The count is required by the U.S. Department of Housing and

Urban Development and must be conducted at least once every two years, during the last two weeks of January by CoCs receiving HUD funding. For historical results of the PIT Count, visit IHCDA’s website at in.gov/ihcda/indiana-balance-of-state-continuum-ofcare/hmis_data_portal/.

Court News

Evictions

The following evictions have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Alden Stuckman v. Robert Fowerbaugh, $3,520 Ryan Stuckman v. Tyler Herbst, $3,012

Superior Court III

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

Speeding — Jadon M. Miller, Milford, $160.50; Kaiden B. Ruff, Leesburg, $160.50

Failure to register — Dravan M. Anderson, Leesburg, $160.50

Owner allows dog to stray beyond owner’s premises —

Brent C. Baker, Leesburg, $25

Marriage Licenses

Kosciusko County

The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court Ann Torpy: Hile-Leamon Gregory Hile, 51, Syracuse, and Katrina Leamon, 49, Syracuse Lovan-Heaberlin Andrew D. Lovan, 23, Syracuse, and Breighton H. Heaberlin, 21, Goshen

McDowell-Henry Thomas McDowell, 26, Syracuse, and Jeanette Henry, 25, Syracuse Navarro-Rodriguez Patrick A. Navarro, 26, Syracuse, and Maria I. Rodriguez, 28, Warsaw

2022 annual licenses valid through March 31

Heads up, hunters and anglers! All 2022 annual licenses are valid through March 31. The 2023 licenses go on sale in January.

To ask about your online license system account, licensepurchasing errors or deer control permits, email INHuntFish@dnr. IN.gov or call (317) 232-4082.

[U.S.P.S 325-840] ISSN 2834-3999 Vol. 61, No. 47

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What it’s like to be a jury member in teen court?

On a frigid Monday after the winter sun had set, I entered the front door of the Justice Building alone. A young policeman gave me directions to Teen Court on the second level.

The building wasn’t quite empty, but staff and judges and all of those who make the place run were obviously shrugging on their coats and streaming out for home. Yet, the business of the Justice Building wasn’t over. Tonight was a special court – Teen Court – run by Co-Directors Lana Horoho and Betsey Vastbinder.

I reached the second floor where a statue of Lady Justice welcomed with a sign taped to her base. I followed the instructions for “Teen Court” to find the correct courtroom. After hours, the place was dark and quiet, heavy with waiting. I sat in the back, behind the accused, the only audience member in a sea of orange cushioned chairs. The youth wore jeans and a hoodie. She looked impossibly young and vulnerable.

The defense attorney, high school senior Ryun Hoffert in a navy blazer, gave his charge some last-minute instructions. “This part can be confusing,” he told her. “This is what the question means. Do you have any questions?” The youth shook her head mutely. Navy blazer nodded, satisfied, as the members of the jury filed into Superior Court One clutching yellow legal pads and pens. As they took their seats in the jury box and smoothed out their casual business clothing, their faces looked well-scrubbed and earnest. Prosecutor, defense attorney, and all the members of the jury looked far too young.

They volunteered here to perform “Restorative Justice.” Teen Court’s Mission is to “invest in youth by reducing juvenile offense incidents, restoring young offenders’ connection to community, and providing opportunities for teen volunteers to grow in empathy, judgment, and leadership.” Very. Lofty. Goals.

“All rise!” barked Juan Castillo, the high schooler functioning as bailiff. The jury rose as one to watch the judge enter the courtroom. He told them to raise their right hands and swore them in, warning that if any of the details about this proceeding were to become public, they themselves could be prosecuted, “even in this same courtroom.” The jury members nodded solemnly and took their seats.

What, you ask, could possibly be important about Teen Court? Why don’t these particular teens just follow the normal routes through juvenile probation? Years ago, the late Judge David Cates found a need to develop a pretrial diversion program which is one piece of a larger initiative called JDAI – Juvenile Detention Alternatives to Incarceration which acknowledges that locking

up kids is counter-productive and traumatizing.

Why? Some juveniles get caught up in the system because of things beyond their control, or because of one bad decision. I heard about students who missed too much school because their parents had gotten sick and they were taking care of them, I heard about one who had stolen food for their younger sibling. I heard about a third who had just discovered they were ADHD and wanted help with treatment. I heard about a fourth who had stolen something and would become ineligible to enter the Marines if they had a record.

The youth this evening was here because of missing too much school. Her medical condition caused perpetual insomnia, so she would get ready for school and fall asleep waiting for the bus. She mentioned not liking school and not fitting in as a result. Right. Not exactly your typical bad guy.

The idea of Teen Court is that any of us could have made a poor choice or been in a situation out of our control. This court aimed to find a way to restore a teenager to accountability while keeping this black mark from their permanent record.

The prosecutor, high schooler Brooke Bolinger who was dressed in a black suit, stood and read her suggestions for a plan of action — the accused should spend time researching her medical condition and ways to overcome the insomnia issue, the student should create a plan to leave her cellphone out of her bedroom at night, and the student should go through a program which would teach her coping skills. The jury members nodded and were dismissed to the jury room by the judge.

The jury room Is a rather non-

descript room with industrial carpet, a counter with some sub sandwiches and Gatorade, a basket in the center full of the jury members’ cellphones, and two tiny bathrooms. The high schoolers sat around a large oval table and chose their foreperson, Keely Roe. Vastbinder gave them instructions and they leaped into a vibrant debate about the charges and appropriate counteractions.

As students themselves, they understood the pressures of study, and jobs, and family. Many pens clicked, paper shuffled, and they checked with each other about possibilities. “How about tutoring options?” one member asked. “Is there still a program at the school she attends?” A few members of the jury even volunteered to be tutors for the youth.

One with a similar name as the youth mentioned how she herself had been bullied because of that interesting name. They empathized before arriving at consensus in 15 minutes and returned to the courtroom where the judge checked to be sure Vastbinder approved of the Restorative Justice.

The youth nodded as she heard the plan, obviously grateful to be given the opportunity.

What do the volunteers get from being a part of Teen Court? The judge appeared in the Jury Room and gave a talk about his own life and experience. He asked about the jury members’ plans, told them stories of what it what like to visit someone in prison (razor wire, red line on the sidewalk and warnings about being shot if the line was crossed at the wrong time).

A jury member asked him why he had chosen law, and he gave a response which got all their attention: “To be honest,” he ruminated. “I got into law because I had so many criminals in my own

extended family.” The students paused to consider this before asking lots of excellent questions about his job. Some took notes.

Vastbinder returned to tell the group another youth had arrived. They smoothed their hair and straightened their collars to

begin their job again. The whole thing took about 40 minutes for each youth, and each youth walked back downstairs past Lady Justice with a parent or guardian and a list of guidelines to complete for their sentencing.

By the end of the evening,

around 7 pm, the Justice Building was empty and silent except for the policeman at the front who let us each back out into the dark night. Stars shone. The red clock of the courthouse greeted a group of high school volunteers with a gust of ice. They smiled anyway.

Settlement secured with Google under same Indiana law used against TikTok

Attorney General Todd Rokita announced Thursday, Dec. 29, a $20 million settlement with Google to resolve Indiana’s lawsuit against Google for deceptive location tracking practices.

The attorney general filed a separate, independent lawsuit when negotiations between the company and a coalition of state

Syracuse family suing Warsaw officers after alleged constitutional rights violations

A Syracuse family is suing the city of Warsaw and two Warsaw Police Department officers after alleged violations of constitutional rights.

Pamela, David and Solomon Gregory are the plaintiffs.

Court documents state the plaintiffs’ federal claims are brought pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 1983 to redress the deprivation, under color of state law, of rights secured by the Constitution of the United States. The Gregorys are being represented by Kenneth J. Falk and Stevie J. Pactor, American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana, Indianapolis.

The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court Northern District of Indiana – South Bend Division on Nov. 29. Defendants in the case are the City of Warsaw, WPD Chief Scott Whitaker, and WPD Capt. Paul Heaton.

According to the complaint, on Dec. 31, 2021, and into the morning hours of Jan. 1, 2022, Whitaker became concerned his underage daughter was attending a New Year’s party at the Gregorys’ home.

While using a police vehicle and accompanied by Heaton, Whitaker went to the Gregorys’ home and pulled into the residence’s driveway. Heaton then allegedly entered the residence’s garage through a closed door. At the time, there were individuals in the garage who were 18 and older who had a list of people invited to the party, and they told Heaton he could not enter the home. Heaton then left the garage.

Shortly after midnight, Heaton forced the residence’s locked front door open, breaking the doorknob’s lock. He entered the home, announcing himself as a police officer.

Pamela and David, Solomon’s parents, were not home at the time. Solomon was in the basement with friends, and it was later determined that Whitaker’s daughter was not at the home.

One of Solomon’s friends told Solomon an adult had entered the garage and Solomon went to investigate. When Solomon entered the residence’s kitchen, he saw Heaton in the home with a flashlight. Heaton asked Solomon where Whitaker’s daughter was and Solomon said he didn’t think she was there.

Solomon then asked Heaton where his warrant was that justified entry into the home, and Heaton allegedly said he did not need a warrant.

After being assured by several people in the home that Whitaker’s daughter was not there, Heaton left the home through the garage’s back door. Solomon followed Heaton and noticed Whitaker standing near the police vehicle. Heaton then suddenly grabbed Solomon by his shoulder and the back of his arms, and held him for about one minute. After a short period of time, Solomon was able to break free and reentered his home.

Heaton remained outside the home and called for backup.

Syracuse Police officers and deputies with the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office came to the property. A number of the young people on the premises received citations for underage drinking; Solomon did not receive a citation.

When Pamela and David returned to the home, Heaton asked if he could be escorted through the residence to once again look for Whitaker’s daughter.

David consented and led Heaton through the home.

While in the home, Heaton proceeded to look through cabinet drawers in the residence’s basement. Court documents state Heaton did not have permission to do that, and David told Heaton he did not have permission to search the drawers.

On May 31, the Gregorys filed a notice of tort claim as required by Indiana law and their claim has not been approved and therefore has been deemed to be denied.

Legal claims listed in the suit are as follows:

Heaton violated the Fourth Amendment by entering the Gregorys’ property and searching it, and by seizing Solomon. Documents further state Whitaker’s actions violated the Fourth Amendment if Whitaker directed Heaton to enter the property or failed to intervene to stop the entry.

Heaton seizing Solomon represents a tort for which the city of Warsaw is liable or, in the alternative, Heaton is liable, if Heaton was not acting within the scope of his employment.

The Gregorys are requesting a jury trial in the case and are seeking a declaration that the defendants have violated the Gregorys’ rights.

attorneys general stalled. As a result, Indiana received approximately twice as much money as it would have received as part of the settlement that was later reached with the 40 states that did not file lawsuits against Google.

“This settlement is another manifestation of our steadfast commitment to protect Hoosiers from Big Tech’s intrusive schemes,” Rokita said. “We will continue holding these companies accountable for their improper manipulation of consumers.”

Google’s deceptive practices became widely known following a 2018 story by the Associated Press. After that story, multiple states began investigating Google’s location tracking practices.

As detailed in Indiana’s lawsuit, Google uses location data collected from Indiana consumers to build detailed user profiles and target ads, but Google has

deceived and misled users about its practices since at least 2014.

Attorney General Rokita aggressively pursued litigation against Google because even a limited amount of location data can expose a person’s identity and routines. Such data can be used to infer personal details such as political or religious affiliation, income, health status or participation in support groups — as well as major life events such as marriage and the birth of children.

With this settlement, Attorney General Rokita has ensured that Hoosiers are no longer coerced into trading away their privacy.

This lawsuit was handled by an experienced litigation team including Doug Swetnam, Vanessa Voigt Gould, and Jennifer Van Dame — who tenaciously pursued complex data privacy theories in a Hoosier courtroom against a well-resourced adversary.

Warriors lose to Woodlan, defeat Trinity in Holiday Tourney

The Wawasee Warrior boys varsity basketball team lost to the Woodlan Warriors 55-43 in the championship game of the Wawasee Holiday Tournament Friday, Dec. 30.

Wawasee opened the game with a 16-6 lead after one quarter. Woodlan returned the favor in the second quarter, outscoring Wawasee 19-9. The game was tied 25-25 at halftime. Wawasee shot 47.4% from two during the first half and was three of six from three. Woodlan shot 62.5% from two and was two of four from three.

Woodlan continued its hot shooting in the second half. Wawasee just couldn’t get the ball to drop through the net like they did the first two quarters.

Wawasee shot 28.6% from two and 14.3% from three, going one of seven from downtown in the second half. Woodlan outscored Wawasee 30-18 in the second half and outrebounded them 32-14 for the game. Wawasee racked up 22 fouls to Woodlan’s 14.

Sophomore guard Maddux Everingham led Wawasee with 16 points. Junior forward Collin Ziebarth added 11 points. Junior forward Carson Smith had five rebounds. Sophomore guard Myles Everingham had four assists.

Wawasee defeated Trinity School at Greenlawn 50-16 Friday morning in the first game of the Wawasee Holiday Tournament.

In what was a battle of the Warriors and Titans, the Warriors dominated right from the start.

Myles Everingham opened the game with a baseline jumper and

Maddux Everingham nailed backto-back threes, giving the Warriors an early 8-2 lead. Ziebarth got in on the party with a three from the right corner, making it 11-2. Smith scored on a reverse layup, putting the Warriors up 13-3 at the end of the first quarter.

Senior guard Peyton Felger glided in for a layup, giving the Warriors a 15-3 advantage to start the second quarter. Myles Everingham drilled a three from the left wing and Felger had a rebound basket, making it 20-5 Warriors with 4:10 left in the second quarter.

Sophomore guard Weston Hoffert dialed up a three from the right corner, putting the Warriors up 23-5. Myles Everingham knocked down a three from the top of the key. The Warriors took a 28-5 lead into halftime.

Felger started the second half

with a pull-up jumper in the lane. Senior center Collin Roberson then made a strong move to the basket, scoring the layup. Trinity stopped the bleeding with a free throw to cut their deficit to 32-6 with 4:52 left in the third quarter. After baskets by Smith and Ziebarth, the Warriors led 36-10 after three quarters.

Myles Everingham opened the fourth quarter with a three-pointer. Smith sank a three from the left wing and then scored back-to-back driving layups, giving the Warriors a 46-14 lead with 2:54 remaining. Junior center Weston DeLong had two rebound baskets in the last two minutes, capping off a dominant performance by the Warriors.

Myles Everingham and Smith led Wawasee with 11 points apiece. Myles Everingham had five assists. Felger had six rebounds and Smith had five rebounds.

Roundup

Lady Warriors edged in Holiday Shootout

The Lady Warriors varsity basketball team participated in the Holiday Shootout at Plymouth High School, Wednesday, Dec. 28.

The team was down 27-10 at the end of the first quarter versus Norwell. Norwell was on fire and the Lady Warriors had a hard time matching them out of the gate. The girls battled hard and played very competitively, matching Norwell basket for basket throughout the remainder of the contest, but ultimately couldn’t overcome their first quarter deficit, falling 70-50.

Sophomore forward Olivia Horn led the Lady Warriors with 14 points. Junior forward Brooklynn Gibson added nine points.

The team squared off with Huntington North in their first game of the day. Huntington North had the upper hand on the Lady Warriors and led throughout the game, taking a 24-12 lead into the halftime break. The Lady Warriors were outscored by a 27-16 margin in the third and fourth quarters, losing 51-28.

Sophomore guard Mackenzie Hackleman led the Lady Warriors with nine points.

Next game: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at home versus NorthWood.

Swimming Boys swimming — Jan. 3 defeated Northridge 92-88. Individual results: 100 yard backstroke, Nathan Harper, 52.98, 1st; 100 breaststroke, Keegan Hurst, 1:07.83, 3rd; 400 freestyle relay, Nate Kryder, Zack Kryder, Cade Garden, Harper, 3:22.49, 1st; 1 meter diving, Isaac Winters, 172.25, 1st; 100 butterfly, N. Kryder, 53.88, 1st; 200 individual medley, Hurst, 2:18.05, 3rd; 50 free, N. Kryder, 22.66, 1st; 200 medley relay, Harper, Hurst, N. Kryder, Ivan Meier, 1:44.41, 2nd; 200 free, C. Garden, 1:53.93, 2nd; 500 free Luke Kompange, 5:57.35, 5th; 200 free relay, Z. Kryder, Kompange, Dakota Nguyen, C. Garden, 1:39.13, 2nd.

Next meet: 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at Goshen Girls swimming — Jan. 3 defeated Northridge 93-90. Individual results: 100 breaststroke, Addison Beasley, 1:06.83, 1st, (Wawasee new school record); 400 free relay, Julie Mishler, Beasley, Kiah Farrington, Alexis Mishler, 3:33.69, 1st; 1 meter diving Delaney Delagrange, 140.75, 2nd; Ocean Glandon, 132.55, 3rd; 100 butterfly, Hayden Neer, 1:04.19, 2nd; 100 free Alexis Mishler, 50.16, 1st, (Wawasee new school record); 200 individual medley, Beasley, 2:10.51, 2nd; 50 free, Alexis Mishler, 22.86, 1st, (Wawasee new school record Northridge new pool record); Farrington, 24.84, 2nd; 200 medley relay, Alexis Mishler, Neer, Farrington, Emma Young, 1:50.65, 1st; 200 free, Julie Mishler, 1:53.13, 1st; 200 free relay, Beasley, Young, Farrington, Julie Mishler, 1:38.42, 1st; 100 backstroke, Julie Mishler, 55.35, 1st, (Northridge new pool record)

Next meet: 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at Goshen. Wrestling

Boys varsity wrestling — Dec. 29 Al Smith Invitational: Finished 16th place with 85

points. Individual results: (106) Kaleb Salazar, 4th place, won four of six matches, scored 18 team points; (113) Cameron Senter, won three of five, seven points; (120) Jaxon Senter, won one of three, four points; (126) Colten Sutton, won two of four, five points; (138) Logan Stuckman, won two of four, five points; (145) Ethan Rodriguez, won three of five, nine points; (152) Hunter Miller, 7th, won four of six, nine points; (170) Gavin Malone, won three of five, 10 points; (182) Cameron Zimmerman, won three of five, eight points; (195) Donovan Blair, 5th, won four of six, 11 points; (220) Derek Morrison, won one of three, three points; (285) Eleazar Vazquez, won one of three, two points.

Next match: 6:45 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 5, at NorthWood.

Girls varsity wrestling — Dec. 28 at Penn: Finished 9th place with 80 points. Individual results: (120 B) Ciara Rodriguez, 7th place, won three of five matches, scored 11 team points; (132 A) Brooke Catron, 4th, won two of four, 14 points; (138 B) Deserae Vetor, 4th place, won two of four, 13 points; (145 A) Kenidi Nine, 2nd, won three of four, 22 points; (160) Alexandra Garcia, 5th, won four of five, 17 points; (220-285) Olivia Hill, won one of three, three points.

Basketball

JV boys basketball — Dec. 30 lost to New Haven 39-37, defeated Woodlan 42-27 in JV Holiday Tournament.

Next game: 6:15 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6, at NorthWood.

Gymnastics Dec. 28 at Elkhart Invitational — The team scored 43 points, finishing in 7th place. Angola scored 106.25 points, finishing in 1st place. Individual results: Olivia Ousley had another nofall beam routine, putting her at 9th place overall on beam. Ousley also had an 8.45 on vault.

Next meet: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 5, at Carroll.

Ragan

Rader to Leesburg Council

Mitchell “Mitch” Rader will replace Doug Jones on the Leesburg Town Council.

On Tuesday, Dec. 27, outside the Kosciusko County Clerk’s Office in the Kosciusko County Justice Building, Kosciusko GOP Chair Mike Ragan announced his appointment of Rader to finish Jones’ term, as the latter opted to resign from his council seat. That term ends Dec. 31, 2023.

Ragan chose Rader over Amanda Brookins-Bibler and Darrin Lincoln. He was allowed to appoint someone to finish out Jones’ term instead of a caucus being held due to only one GOP precinct committeeman being eligible to vote in such an event.

In the statement he read announcing Rader’s appointment, Ragan noted that any of the candidates who filed for Jones’ seat “would be an asset to the Leesburg Town Board.”

He said he chose Rader based on

an “interview (as well as) several Leesburg citizens contact(ing) me in support of (him).”

Rader comes to the role having served as Leesburg’s clerk-treasurer in the past as well as on the Plain Township Fire Department for 45 years, including time spent as its chief.

“I’d like to thank Doug Jones for his approximately 14 years of service and the other candidates, Amanda and Darrin, for their interest in the town of Leesburg,” Rader told media members following the announcement of his appointment.

“I would like to explore some grants to help with some of the economic and community development that the town could use,” said Rader of one of his goals for serving on the council. “I look forward to working with (fellow council members) Tom (Moore) and Christina (Archer) to further the work that they’ve put forward and help them on any new ventures that we deem necessary for the town.”

The Indiana Destination Development Corporation has just launched two new grants — the IN Indiana Public Art Activation Grant and IN Indiana Placemaking Activation Grant — that will give local artists and communities the unique opportunity to create IN Indiana artwork and signage in highly-visible locations throughout the state.

The IN Indiana Placemaking Activation Grant is a matching grant of up to $25,000 to fund signage and placemaking efforts. The IN Indiana Public Art Activation Grant is a non-matching grant of up to $10,000 to fund public art projects. The IDDC plans to allocate up to $500,000 total between both grants based on the quality of applications received.

Grantees will receive 75% of funding upon award and 25% upon project completion. These programs follow the success of the initial round of the Public Art Activation Grant program in 2022, which saw IDDC fund over 40 murals and sculptures across the state. See those projects at VisitIndiana.com/ Murals.

“Indiana is a diverse state that’s full of character, and we plan to showcase that through these works of art,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch. “Through the public artwork, we will have the opportunity to work together with our local communities to show in our state.

From the smallest towns to the largest cities, there is something for everyone IN Indiana.”

The IDDC is now accepting applications and the deadline to submit is 4 p.m. March 17. All applicants will be considered, including but not limited to communities, destination marketing organizations, chambers of commerce and private businesses. Potential public art locations can include anything from exterior walls and alleyways to bridges, barns and more.

“This activation aligns perfectly with the IDDC’s new IN Indiana campaign, which is all about giving tools and a voice to everyone,” said IDDC Secretary and CEO Elaine Bedel. “This not only enables us to highlight local artists and organizations, but also use the IN Indiana campaign to tie Indiana communities together in a way that adds to the beauty of Indiana’s rural, urban and suburban landscapes.”

Projects will be selected based on the quality of the submitted design, with preference given to locations in high-view areas that create potential for photo opportunities. IDDC intends to include a diverse group of locations and projects, including urban, suburban and rural settings, large and small communities, and locations in different regions of the state. For more information on guidelines and timelines, go to visitindiana.com/about-iddc/for-industry-partners/awards-grants.

One-hundred and twenty-six employees are to be laid off locally as a result of Lutheran opting to end an agreement with a food service provider.

Compass Group North America issued a notice to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development under the Federal Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act on Dec. 22 announcing the layoffs. They are to affect workers employed by Morrison Healthcare who are members of Compass Group North America at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne as well as Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital in Warsaw.

The employees will be laid off on Jan. 25. The notice, which was also sent to Warsaw Mayor Joe Thallemer and Fort Wayne Mayor Tom

Henry, notes that it is believed “that most employees will be hired by the new vendor.”

Lutheran Health Network Director of Communications Megan Hubartt confirmed that latter information to InkFreeNews in an email, stating that “We anticipate the majority of team members working with the current provider will remain with the new provider.”

“We are grateful to Morrison for their service,” she also said.

Thallemer also commented to InkFreeNews on the layoffs, noting that “It’s unsettling” especially with them happening around the holidays. He mentioned that the new vendor being expected to rehire most of the workers is at least “a silver lining” in the matter.

Several hunting seasons will be closing at the end of January.

Central Zone Duck: Ends Jan. 8

Quail (South of I-74): Ends Jan. 10

South Zone Duck: Ends Jan. 22

Deer Reduction Zone: Ends Jan. 31

Raccoon and Opossum (hunting, trapping): Ends Jan. 31 Gray and Fox Squirrel: Ends Jan. 31

Mink, Muskrat and Long-tailed Weasel (hunting, trapping): Ends Jan. 31

Red and Gray Fox (trapping): Ends Jan. 31

Signups for walkathon have begun at SPEC

Well, we made it; here we are entering a new year. It has been such a busy year with so much going on. It doesn’t seem possible that our 2023 walkathon started Jan. 3. We already have a wonderful start on our donations, and we haven’t even begun yet.

We already have some great prizes lined up. As usual, we

have the YMCA membership, the rounds of golf at Maxwelton Golf Course, the overnight stay at Oakwood Resort, gift certificates from Neighborhood Fresh, free pizza from Bourbon Street Pizza, gift certificates from the Sleepy Owl Restaurant and Ace Hardware, with more coming in as I write this.

If you haven’t signed up for the walkathon yet, make sure you do; you can’t win the prizes unless you

sign up.

If you have any questions about anything going on here at the center, call me at (574) 834-1600, ext.

224. We have the perfect place to walk this winter; come and join us.

I hope you all have had a wonderful Christmas and New Year.

I thought about all of you during the awful Christmas blizzard.

Wasn’t that the pits?

It’s a great start to the new year. Stay warm and healthy.

Penguin Point employees walk out due to pay issue

Those hoping to grab food from Penguin Point on Friday afternoon, Dec. 30, in Warsaw may have been disappointed.

According to Eric Graham, a former manager of the restaurant chain’s location at 408 N. Detroit St., employees staged a walkout at both of Warsaw’s restaurants due to a pay issue. The other location is at 2401 E. Center St., and Graham said some workers have since reopened it. The Syracuse location remained open, but may have been short staffed.

Graham said workers at all of the chain’s locations across northern Indiana decided to walk out at 2 p.m. today. The pay issue has been ongoing for awhile due to an investment group in Texas having taken over the company, he said.

According to the Indiana Sec-

retary of State’s webpage’s list of businesses, Penguin Point Restaurant Group LLC based out of Dallas, Texas, runs the chain. Jeff Love is listed as the manager and the chief financial officer is Michael L. Russell.

Workers get paid weekly and recently have been delayed in getting paid multiple times, wondering sometimes if they would even get money at all, said Graham. That happened again this week, with Graham noting he and some other employees hadn’t been paid as of late Friday afternoon.

“We’re tired of being lied to,” said Graham. He noted a manager from the restaurant that closed recently in Plymouth was fired shortly before Christmas “due to a cost savings” after being moved to Warsaw and demoted.

All employees recently had a pay cut of $1 per hour, Graham said.

Graham, who opted to quit Fri-

day due to conditions, said employees miss the family culture previously at Penguin Point and are passionate about serving customers, but the pay issue has affected their morale.

He said the general manager of the Detroit location, who worked over Graham, also quit, leaving no one to manage that location.

Dawson Clark, a former general manager of a Penguin Point location in South Bend, has also contacted InkFreeNews regarding issues with the restaurants.

“They (Penguin Point) lied when they said they gave all employees a chance to switch stores,” said Clark in an e-mail. “If you did switch stores, you got a huge pay cut.”

Clark also alleged that multiple female employees quit due to Penguin Point’s director of operations making sexual statements toward them.

Indiana Department Of Education announces 2022 graduation rate

The Indiana Department of Education released the 2022 state graduation rates, with data showing 86.61% of students in the Class of 2022 graduating.

“Graduating high school is an important milestone as students transition to their next step, whether that’s employment, enrollment or enlistment leading to service,” said Indiana Secretary of Education Dr. Katie Jenner. “As we seek new and innovative ways to ensure students are best prepared for their future, we must continue to rethink how those four years are structured. This includes increasing the number of students having access to a high-value postsecondary credential before graduation, increasing access to high-quality work-based learning opportunities that allow for additional skill development as well as providing flexibility for high schools — allowing them to focus on strategic, rigorous coursework

that is purposeful for each student’s unique path.”

A spreadsheet with statewide-, corporation- and school-level graduation data is available here.

While overall, the statewide graduation rate held relatively steady as many students are continuing to recover from the academic impacts of pandemic-related learning disruptions, below are some of the key areas of success from the 2022 graduation data:

Statewide, graduation rates increased for:

Black students — from 77.05% in 2021 to 77.52% in 2022;

Hispanic students — from 82.66% in 2021 to 83.86% in 2022; English learners — from 82.80% in 2021 to 85.60% in 2022;

Special education students — from 74.52% in 2021 to 76.39% in 2022; and

Students receiving free and reduced price meals — from 82.84%

in 2021 to 83.74% in 2022.

The non-waiver graduation rate improved from 78.78% in 2021 to 80.58% in 2022. Per Indiana Code (IC 20-32-4-4.1), to qualify for a waiver, a student will have been unsuccessful in completing postsecondary-readiness competency requirements by the conclusion of his or her senior year. This includes:

A student who was in the process of completing a competency at one school that was not offered by the school to which the student transferred; and

A student who has attempted to achieve at least three separate postsecondary-readiness competencies.

Due to differences between federal and state accountability equations and standards, IDOE also released 2022 federal graduation rates. In 2022, Indiana’s federal graduation rate was 85.12%.

To Place A Classified Ad Call (574) 658-4111, Milford

William Selvey is named Syracuse Police Chief

10 YEARS AGO, JAN. 2, 2013

Angela Goralyczyk had news, “Over the weekend before Christmas the German students at Wawasee High School took a trip to Chicago to attend the Christkindl Market. It is an authentic market they set up in Daley plaza where German tradesman come over once a year for a few weeks to sell their wares. Jeff accompanied Alexandra and Ron Schwartz took his daughter, Savannah.”

Bai Bu and John Holloway spent New Year’s Eve ice fishing on the channel by Cherokee Road, Syracuse. Holloway noted those ice fishing should have safety equipment such as ropes and ice spikes. “I’ve fallen in hundreds of times, it’s not fun getting out,” he said.

After seven years as curator of the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum, Eloise Kuhn is stepping down. Her last day at the museum was Thursday. She has a few new job offers but isn’t sure what she’ll do next. All she’s sure of is she won’t be sitting at home.

20 YEARS AGO, JAN. 1, 2003

Rick Buell, Syracuse, was among approximately 14 other men who got some time in ice fishing in the Chinese Gardens area Thursday. The men spent the morning ice fishing on several channels of Syracuse and Wawasee lakes.

James M. Layne is a patrolman with the Syracuse Police Department. “After leaving the military I still wanted to continue to serve my country in law enforcement. I believe in serving the community and working to make it a better place. As a police officer I knew I could work on these things and assist in changing peoples’ lives for the better and keep the streets safe.”

Jeff Judd is the executive director of Oakwood Inn and Conference Center after being interim director for six months. Judd has worked at Oakwood for three years, starting as the director of finance.

30 YEARS AGO, DEC. 30, 1992 1992 was good to Syracuse.

The chamber “re” — filled its coordinator position by hiring Jack Elam; the town hired its first town manager, Matt Vigneault; and 11 new businesses opened their doors. Looks like a nice combination of events.

The new businesses are: Paul Stoelting, attorney; Syracuse Glass, Pat Eakins; Kid’s Station, Helen Allen and Ruth Pounds; Wawasee TEE PEE, Frank and Tom Personowski; J.O. Mory Inc., Mike Kehoe, Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Consultant; Phillips Stamping and Fabricating; ISU/Insurance Management, Ron Beasley; Taco Bell Express, Rene L. Brown, general business manager, and Michael Martin Rossi, facilitator; Gem Enterprises — includes National Ski and Sports and Lakeshore Piers and Decking, Greg and Brenda Mishler, owners, and Kieth Sea-

Bucher

10 YEARS AGO, JAN. 2, 2013

Vickie Marquart, CR 60W, Milford, has been appointed to the Van Buren Township Advisory Board. Her appointment fills the vacancy left in late July by Democrat board member Bill Troup’s resignation.

The Seigfried children and grandchildren were in town last week visiting Charlotte at her big brick home on North Main Street. Amanda Siegfried, her husband Derek Royal, and their children, Zach, 16, and Zoe, 13, were able to come up from Texas for a week. Earlier, Amanda’s brother, Paul, and his wife, Ann, were able to visit for a few days. They live in Huntington.

20 YEARS AGO, JAN. 1, 2003

A cast iron plaque once kept in the garage at Dan and Mary Helene Levernier’s Milford home will eventually find a new home, possibly near the town hall. For now, though, the plaque is at the Milford Street Department. The historic marker is all that remains of the 110-foot standpipe that was the source of Milford’s water supply for 83 years.

man, manager; Main Street Hobby Shop, Tim Yoder; and Madak Corporation.

One proposed new venture has had its ground-breaking held over until 1993 — we look forward to welcoming Brice and Faye Medlock’s country inn as a viable addition to our business community.

40 YEARS AGO, JAN. 5, 1983

William Selvey was named the new Syracuse Police Chief (town marshal) by a unanimous vote. He will replace Robert Houser who will remain on the police force as an officer. Selvey is a 17year veteran policeman, serving the last three years on the Syracuse department. He attended the Toledo, Ohio, police academy and was a member of that city’s police force for 14 years. Since coming to Indiana, he has also received a degree from the Indiana Police Academy in Plainfield.

Joe Anderson was also unanimously approved as fire chief for 1983. Anderson, a member of the Syracuse Fire Department for 13 years, has served in several positions within the department. He has been assistant chief, captain and lieutenant during his 13 years of service. He is also a driver for the Syracuse EMS service and a dispatcher for NIPSCo.

Wayne and Pat VanCuren, owners-operators of The Frog Tavern, have been having fun and doing some serious business with a breathalizer they recently installed at their place of business. They especially had a lot of fun Friday night (New Year’s eve), and saw their customers home safely.

50 YEARS AGO, JAN. 3, 1973

Business was flourishing at the Syracuse license branch Tuesday, Jan. 2, the first day to purchase new auto license

plates. Virginia (Mrs. Frank) Putt, branch manager, said 300 passenger plates and 50 truck plates plus a number of trailer and other plates, were sold during the first day.

The following persons’ names were drawn to serve on the grand jury for 1973: Paul A. Yeager, r 3 Syracuse, serving January 1 to March 31; Sandra K. Smith, r 2 Syracuse, serving April 1 to June 30; Vincent L. Love, r 4 Syracuse, serving July 1 to September 30; and Mary Jane Bechtold, r 4 Syracuse, serving October 1 to December 31.

Two Wawasee High School graduates, now freshmen at Purdue, appear to be doing well. Dal Ummel received his grades last week and found he came up with a 5.5 (or B-plus) average while Tom Fribley has a 6.0 (or straight A) average, both for the first grading period.

Don Bucher, a Milford farmer who spends winters in Florida with his family, received an all expense paid trip to the NSL/ NWL Pro-Am Water Ski Tournament in Orlando, Fla., in October. The Pro-Am event is the final event each year for the series champions from the many National Ski League events from around the country throughout the year.

30 YEARS AGO, DEC. 30, 1992

Names of the “Milford Christmas” drawings at four Main Street businesses have been announced — and it just happens that all are Milford residents.

Winner of the “Becky” doll at Doll’s Decorating Center is Kenny Brooks. Earline Fisher is the winner of a $25 gift certificate at Walter Drugs Inc. The $25 gift certificate at Jenkins Automotive has been won by Kevin Haines. Judy Jones is the winner of a free haircut and style at Bobi’s Shear Success.

Manchester College senior Patrick Weybright, 479 E. Camp Mack Rd., Milford, is the 1992-93 recipient of the Carl Waldo Holl

Memorial Scholarship. The fund was established in honor of Dr. Holl, who served as professor of chemistry and as dean of the college from 1923-61.

40 YEARS AGO, JAN. 5, 1983

A new town utility building will be erected at the north edge of Milford, Main Street extended (at the “sink” hole). Milford Town Board members voted to approve the construction at their year-end meeting late Thursday afternoon. The cost for the new building and improvement on the existing building will be $10,226.17.

Harry Doty, Milford contractor, will be doing the work.

Army National Guard Pvt. David R. Miller, son of Partha Miller, Milford, has completed one station unit training at the U.S. Army Infantry School, Fort Benning, Ga. He is a 1969 graduate of Wawasee High School, Syracuse.

Julia Rhodes, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Rhodes of Milford and a 1979 graduate of Wawasee High School, left December 30 for a three-week intercultural nursing program

It happened in North Webster ... 10 years ago

through Marion College where she is a senior nursing student. Miss Rhodes flew out of Indianapolis airport to Miami, Fla., and then on to Port Au Prince, Haiti, where she will observe Haitian medical standards.

50 YEARS AGO, JAN. 3, 1973 Augsburger’s are beginning central accounting for their three food palaces with their offices to be located in Milford. This system, like many others, went into effect January 1.

The Levi Beers left this morning from Indianapolis for Miami, Fla., and Brazil, South America. They will be visiting their daughter Jenny and Mrs. Beer’s sister Josephine who are working in an orphanage in Brazil. The Beers expect to return home on the 18th of January. New residents of Our Town are Mr. and Mrs. John W. Teeple. John and Sarah (Nearing) were married Friday night in the Saint Andrew’s United Methodist church at Syracuse. They have purchased the home of Mrs. Alta Evans on the Milford-Syracuse road.

Sroufe inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame

10 YEARS AGO, JAN. 2, 2013

Congratulations to Jon Sroufe on being inducted into the Kosciusko County Basketball Hall of Fame representing North Webster High School. He and several others were honored during the Whitko-Tippecanoe Valley game Dec. 14 in Mentone.

Members of the Friends of the North Webster Community Public Library braved the snow and slippery roads to present a gift certificate to the library li-

aison, Beth Smith, as a token of its appreciation for all her work in keeping the friends group going, on track and successful.

North Webster Town Council held its end-of-the-year meeting Thursday at North Webster Town Hall. The council approved a three-year lease for the 20 acres of farmland it owns north of town to J. and M. Roberts Farms, Syracuse. The current lease with Larry Mock had expired, and he didn’t wish

to renew.

20 YEARS AGO, JAN. 1, 2003

Sounding more like a soap opera than matters of business, Tippecanoe Township Advisory Board made a tough call Monday night when the three-man panel chose to keep a 12-year employee and maintain the $9,900 township trustee’s salary rather than increase it to the proposed $39,000 that most township taxpayers knew nothing about.

Tables were elaborately decorated in keeping with the holiday season for the Dec. 13 Christmas dinner party of Lake Tippecanoe Women’s Association. The group met in North Webster American Legion Post 253 with 14 members present.

of North Webster and a Purdue University graduate, was guest speaker.

Phyllis Matz entertained 15 members of Efficient Homemakers Club at her home on Dec. 17.

40 YEARS AGO, JAN. 5, 1983

Dispatching problems in North Webster have been resolved. In a special meeting Wednesday evening, Dec. 29, the North Webster Town Board and Tippecanoe Township Advisory Board and trustee agreed to work together and not change the current contract. In July, Richard Mitchell, township trustee, submitted a letter stating the township would consider taking over the dispatching responsibility altogether, depending on the town.

Creation

Elimination of the following precinct: Ward 1 Precinct 4, which was split in to Ward 5 Precinct 2 and Ward 1 Precinct 2.

Any registered voter of this county may object to the county’s proposed order by filing a sworn statement with the Election Division. This statement must set forth the voter’s specific objection to the proposed order, and request that a hearing be conducted by the Indiana Election Commission under the Administrative Orders and Procedures Act (Indiana Code 4-21.5)

The mailing address of the Election Division is as follows:

Election Division of the Indiana Secretary of State 302 W. Washington St., Room E204 Indianapolis, IN 46204-2743

Any objection to the proposed order must be filed with the Election Division no later than noon, Indianapolis time on January 14, 2023. A complete copy of the county’s proposed order is available for public inspection and copying in the office of the Kosciusko Circuit Court Clerk and Election Division. The Kosciusko County Board of Commissioners hspaxlp

North Webster Lady Lionesses met for a Christmas dinner party Dec. 11, in North Webster American Legion Post 253. An evening prayer was read in unison from scrolls made by D.J. Welker. Tables were decorated with Christmas angel ornaments. Table games were played and gifts were exchanged.

30 YEARS AGO, DEC. 30, 1992

Steven and Heather Payne of North Webster are the parents of a son born Thursday, Dec. 24, 1992, in Kosciusko Community Hospital, Warsaw.

Thirty-six members and six guests attended the Lakeland Kiwanis Club meeting at 6:30 a.m. Monday at North Webster Church of God. Scott Badskey, son of Jerry and Julia Badskey

Mr. and Mrs. Mark Minear are the parents of a son, Craig Ryan, who arrived Dec. 23, at KCH in Warsaw.

50 YEARS AGO, JAN. 3, 1973

Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Bennett celebrated their silver wedding anniversary by dining out Dec. 23 with their son, Daniel, who was home from the holidays from Los Angeles, Calif., where he is majoring in history at UCLA.

Mr. and Mrs. Hiram Ferverda entertained a Christmas Eve supper Sunday night. Guests were Mr. and Mrs. Norbert Niles and family, Mr. and Mrs. Don Ferverda and family, Mr. and Mrs. Dave Carey and family, and Eli Shock, all of the North Webster community.

It happened in Milford … 20 years ago

receives all expense paid trip to ski tournament

It happened in Syracuse ... 40 years ago

Weber adjusting to life as a Hoosier

With the recent subzero temperatures and wind chills, Florida transplant Amber Weber says the weather in northern Indiana is something she’ll never get used to.

“I don’t like winters, but I do appreciate the change in scenery. In Florida, you pretty much just have beaches,” Weber said with a straight face. “It’s just a little bit different.”

Weber moved to the Hoosier state five years ago, noting she has family who lives in Goshen. Last January, she began a full-time job at the Syracuse Public library where she helps at the front desk and works as the assistant to the young adult director.

Weber worked as a paraprofessional in a local elementary school before she started her job at the library. She said she had helped out in libraries in the past, but knew in her heart she always wanted to work in one because of her love of books, noting she reads “all the time.”

As part of her responsibilities, Weber leads several clubs in the young adult department, including “Color and Chill,” a book club, a board game club and Anime Club.

“(Young adult) is my favorite genre to read,” she said. “I pretty much don’t sway away to anything else. I relate a lot with the teens because I like anime, video games and stuff like that. I’m pretty much still a teen at heart.

“I love planning for the club events. I’ve always been interested in anime since I was really young. I was involved in anime clubs in school, so being able to bring that type of information to the next generation is pretty cool.

“I also incorporate Japanese culture, besides

it just being about anime, so they’re able to learn more about what the Japanese people do in their country.”

She pointed to recent programs, including Japanese tea tasting, in which they were able to sample some famous Japanese teas. Attendees were able to learn what Japanese tea ceremonies mean in that culture. Club members have also been able to sample popular Japanese foods Weber made.

Although she has never been to Japan, Weber has done extensive research on the culture to ensure her programs are accurate. It is one of her personal goals to travel to that country in the future.

She took an elementary Japanese language course at Indiana University South Bend last semester, where she is working toward her master’s degree in library science with an undergraduate degree in English.

“I have some regulars in each of my clubs,” she said. “I would really like a lot more people to join. I know it’s hard for some teens to get over here because of transportation and extracurricular activities at the school.”

Besides reading, in her free time Weber enjoys thrift store shopping, geocaching and playing video games.

“I always love to give recommendations to people,” she said. “I would love for people to ask for suggestions on what to read. I always have time to answer people’s questions.

“I always love talking to teens, as well. If they have any ideas or suggestions they can let me know and I’ll try to figure out something so they are able to make this a place where they can come and enjoy themselves.”

Please make sure to pay any library fines accrued in 2022 before Jan. 15. Milford Public Library staff appreciates patrons taking care of fines so they can begin the new year with a zero balance. The fines you pay become part of their operating income, so it is very important for the library’s financial health to pay your fines.

Winter Activity Packets

Winter Activity Packets are now available. These are packets for preschool through upper elementary ages. They will give the packets out until they are all gone, so be sure to ask for one at the adult or children’s circulation desk. There are several crafts to make in each packet and a sweet surprise.

Adult Reading Program

The annual Adult Reading Program began Jan. 3. This year’s theme is “All Together Now.” Just sign up at the adult circulation desk and enter a weekly drawing for each book you read or audiobook you listen to. Anyone age 18 or older can join the program. The

The following activities are set to take place at North Webster Community Public Library. Attendees do not need a library card to participate in any of these events.

Adult Events Cookbook Club, 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10. This month’s theme is winter comfort foods. Bring your favorite comfort food recipe, plus a can of vegetables to add to our pot of “Stone Soup.” Enjoy a bowl for lunch and plan on sticking around afterwards for social time and a reading of the book “Stone Soup.”

Adult Craft Class Part I, 2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10. This month’s craft is a papier mâché snowman. Because of necessary drying times, this month’s craft class will be broken up into two parts. The first half will take place Jan. 10 and the second at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 17.

The Glean Team, 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11. This experienced genealogy team is available to help with any genealogy or research questions.

Exercise classes are back. Get Fit While You Sit chair exercise class, 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, followed by Let’s Move Dance Class at 5 p.m. Fiber Arts Friday, 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 13. If you like to knit or crochet, come gather with like-minded yarn enthusiasts to work on projects or get inspiration. They will have an optional crochet dishcloth tutorial. Those interested can bring peaches and cream 4 medium cotton yarn, any color, (one small skein will do — this pattern calls for less than 40 yards), and a size H or J crochet hook.

Teen Events

Have the afterschool blues?

Stop by between 3:30 and 5:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9, to hang out with friends, play board games and battle in Mario Kart on the Nintendo Switch. Feel free to bring your own games to play. Snacks, coffee and pop will be provided. No registration is required.

Teen Study Hall, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12. Teens can stop by to work on homework in a relaxed, social environment.

The Young Adult Art Contest gallery event, 6-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13. Come enjoy all the art

entries from the Syracuse and North Webster libraries’ combined art contest. Appetizers will be served and community members are invited.

Youth Events

Wednesday, Jan. 11, is the first day to drop off stuffed animals for the Stuffed Animal Sleep-Away Camp. The library will be accepting 40 stuffed animal friends who will stay until the pickup date of Saturday, Jan. 21. On Saturday, Jan. 21, pickup will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and campers will all receive a photo booklet of their adventures.

Paws to Read will be returning to the North Webster Community Public Library on Thursdays in January and February. Thursday, Jan. 12, reading will start at 4:15 p.m. Sign up for a 15-minute appointment to read to a registered therapy dog in a fun and relaxed environment. Advance registration is required. Sign up in person, at (574) 834-7122 or at cer-

vin@nweb.lib.in.us.

LEGO builders ages 5-12 are invited to meet at the library at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, for some freestyle LEGO creation. LEGOs are provided — just drop in and join the fun.

STATE OF INDIANA COUNTY OF KOSCIUSKO SS: IN THE KOSCIUSKO COURT CAUSE NO. 43C012212MI132

IN RE THE NAME CHANGE OF: Cody Robert Miller, Petitioner

NOTICE OF PETITION

FOR CHANGE OF NAME

Cody Robert Miller, whose mailing address is: PO Box 168, North Webster, IN 46555, and if different, my residence address is: 724 S. Mary Lafern Street, North Webster, IN 46555, in the Kosciusko County, Indiana, hereby gives notice that Cody Robert Miller has filed a petition in the Kosciusko Court requesting that his name be changed to Cody Robert Hartley.

Notice is further given that the hearing will be held on said Petition on Friday, March 3, 2023 at 8:15 a.m.

Cody Robert Miller, Petitioner Date 12/21/2022

Ann Torpy, Judicial Officer hspaxlp D.28-J.11

NOTICE OF SUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION IN THE KOSCIUSKO CIRCUIT/SUPERIOR COURT 121 NORTH LAKE STREET WARSAW, INDIANA 46580

CASE NUMBER 43C01-2212-EU-000196

Notice is given that on December 20, 2022, Kathleen Nave and Dean R. Gephart, II, were appointed Co-Personal Representatives of the Estate of Dean Ronald Gephart, deceased, who died December 9, 2022.

All persons who have claims against this estate, whether or not now due, must file the claims with the Clerk of the Court within three (3) months from the date of the first publication of this notice, or within nine (9) months after the decedent’s death, whichever is earlier, or the claims will be forever barred.

Dated at Warsaw, Indiana on December 21, 2022.

CLERK, KOSCIUSKO CIRCUIT/SUPERIOR COURT Paul A. Stoelting #15655-43 203 N. Huntington Street Syracuse, IN 46567 (574) 457-2000 hspaxlp

Community invited to art open house

The “All Together Now” Teen Art Contest will hold its art open house from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at the North Webster Community Public Library, 110 E. North St.

Teen artists, their families or guardians, their friends and the rest of the community are welcome to attend this event, which will showcase the young talent within the North Webster and Syracuse communities.

The Syracuse Public Library’s Rebekah Sceniak will perform live violin music while attendees browse the artwork and enjoy refreshments. Local artists will judge each of the pieces and award places first through third within each grade range.

If you cannot attend the open house, all art pieces will be displayed at NWCPL from Jan. 16-27 and then at the Syracuse Public Library Jan. 30 through

Feb. 10. At the end of the displays, teen artists can pick up their pieces from their home library, which they had listed on their entry forms.

This contest is a partnership between the North Webster Community Public Library and the Syracuse Public Library. For information, contact Michelle Parker at mparker@syracuse.lib.in.us or Hanna Kunkel at hanna@nweb.lib.in.us.

Regroup Post-Holidays With Afterschool Study Hall In need of a quiet study space? Do you also love snacks?

Come to the Syracuse Public Library’s afterschool study hall from 4-6 p.m. each Monday in the Rosalyn Jones Room, aka the young adult space. Teens can work on their homework and school projects while receiving help if they need it. This is a great place to regroup following the holidays. As a bonus, the library provides snacks

for attendees.

FOL Second Coffee Social

The Friends of the Syracuse Public Library will host their second coffee social from 10:30 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Jan. 11, in the library’s upstairs sitting area. Stop by within those hours to enjoy good coffee from Coffee Depot and friendship, all in the relaxing environment of the library.

Decluttering Support Group Meets

Did you set a resolution to be tidier in 2023? Start that goal on the right foot by joining the Syracuse library’s decluttering support group at noon Thursday, Jan. 12, in the downstairs meeting room. This group provides resources and support to help individuals navigate their items and simplify their lives, all in a nonjudgmental space. Come celebrate decluttering successes or find help in furthering those goals.

Dinner and auction raise nearly $8,700 for Andy Kryder Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Andy Kryder Memorial Scholarship Fund Auction and Dinner Fundraiser recently raised money for a scholarship fund held by the Kosciusko County Community Foundation.

Event organizer Eric Schaekel said the event exceeded expectations. “This is the second year we’ve done the silent auction,” Schaekel said. “We couldn’t be more honored by the outpouring of community support.”

This year, the auction included items like a football autographed by Devin Hester and Rashied Davis; date night packages to local restaurants and the Wagon

Wheel Theatre; Beats Fit Pro earbuds; and more. The event raised nearly $8,700 for the Andy Kryder Memorial Scholarship Fund.

The fund was established in 2020 by Schaekel and Ben Christoffel in memory of their friend, Andy Kryder. Since then, many people impacted by Kryder have given gifts to the fund in his honor.

Kryder was a graduate of Wawasee High School, where he was an accomplished swimmer. After working in finance for many years, Kryder became a business teacher and swim coach at his former high school. He was well

loved and respected by both the staff and students — a Wawasee Warrior to his core.

The Andy Kryder Memorial Scholarship Fund provides scholarships for students from Wawasee High School with priority given to graduating seniors who are on the varsity swim team, and second preference given to graduating seniors pursuing the study of business.

Gifts to the fund can be made online at kcfoundation.org or via check to 102 E. Market St., Warsaw, IN 46580 with “Andy Kryder” in the memo line.

Church Resolutions in the believer’s life

So, can — or should — a Christian make New Year’s resolutions?

The Bible says nothing explicit on the matter, so it appears to be a matter of individual conscience. Scripture, however, does offer some guidelines, and the promise of success within ordained parameters, for those wishing to commit to a new life — or at least improving a portion of their current daily walk.

Origins The practice of making New Year’s resolutions began about 4,000 years ago in Babylon to accommodate Janus, the Roman god with two faces — one looking forward, one looking back — after whom January was named.

The early Christian church adopted its own spiritual practice of reflecting on past mistakes and resolving to do better in the coming year. Evangelist John Wesley conducted an annual Covenant Renewal Service on New Year’s Eve to counteract the society’s tradition of drunken celebrations.

Definition

A resolution is merely “a firm decision to do or not to do something.” It is an act of the will, and can embrace a commitment to take on new disciplines or challenges or stop destructive habits.

Invariably, quitting a bad course of behavior is most successful when a positive alternative is adopted to fill the resul-

tant void.

There is nothing magical about holding a resolution until New Year’s, an arbitrary day on the human calendar. In fact, resolutions can — and probably should — be made the very day they become opportune and doable.

Guidelines

The Bible offers divine practical advice for decision making of all types, including New Year’s resolutions:

1. Lasting change is impossible without the Lord’s help, so we need to depend on His guidance and strength in all our efforts. He even promises success. “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.” (Proverbs 16:3).

2. He is the true source of wisdom, including which resolutions to select and work on. His wisdom is readily available. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (James 1:5).

3. Cast aside the impediments to improvement, including unforgiveness and self-condemnation. “Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” (Colossians 3:13). “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:1).

4. Make sure the resolutions align with God’s will. Follow the example of Christ. “I always do the things that are pleasing to the One who sent Me.” (John 8:29).

5. Keep trying, despite failures.

You are not in this alone. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9).

6. Serve as a role model for those around you. “Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity.” (Titus 2:7).

Suggestions

There are as many resolutions as there are people making them. In fact, there are far more, and one temptation is to adopt a list of resolutions much longer than opportunity, time and resources permit.

Best to start with one or two — certainly no more than a handful — of commitments, which may include the following:

• Take care of your health.

“Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. ... Therefore, honor God with your body.” (1 Corinthians 19:20).

• Be a peacemaker between friends and family members.

• Do a good deed, no matter how small, each day, with no expectation of recognition or return.

• Rejoice and be thankful as often as possible.

• Be humble.

• Learn something new.

• Read the Bible, even just a single verse, every day.

• Take a moment each day to pray for someone. Set an alarm on your phone to remind you.

THE NEW year is here and many people across the Lakeland area are making New Year’s resolutions. Amanda Demster said, “I have some old family photos I need to get digitized. I have hundreds of old family photos dating back to the 1860s.”

Amy Dennis added, “I want to get rid of stuff.” Pictured above are Demster and Dennis, who both work at North Webster Public Library.

AMERICAN LEGION Post 223 in Syracuse is hosting the band “The Decades” from 7-11 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7. This event is free and open to the public. Come and enjoy some fun music and make some new friends.

chicken sausages to the food bank. For more information on how to donate to the cause, contact Bill Doege at (260) 361-1441.

IT IS a new year and North Webster Community Center has a month full of events and activities in January. Get Moving! will be from 10-10:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14. The next program is “Talking about Feelings” from 10-10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 18. The Mental Health Matters program series is free and registration is not required. For questions call (574) 834-1600, ext. 221.

ATTENTION, YOUNG artists! Teen artists in the area have extra time to complete their art projects for the “All Together Now!” Teen Art Contest. The deadline has been extended to Friday, Jan. 6, so students in sixth through 12th grade could use their winter break to finish up their projects.

Finished projects and packets may be submitted to either the North Webster Community Public Library or the Syracuse Public Library. The “All Together Now!” Art Open House will be held from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at the North Webster Community Library, 110 E. North St.

DUE TO COVID and supply delays, the Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory recognized both the 2021 and 2022 department winners with their awards at this year’s recent Christmas party.

Congratulations to 2021 award winners Jeff Lewis, Firefighter of the Year; and Andrew Grimm, EMS of the Year. The 2021 Chief’s Award recipients were Dave Rensberger, Dennis Rex and Adam Doyle.

Also, congratulations to 2022 award winners Chief Jeremy Likens, Officer of the Year; Kyle Stamm, Firefighter of the Year; and Chris Holsclaw, EMS of the Year.

IF YOU made a New Year’s Resolution to read more, check out the Syracuse Public Library’s 2023 reading challenge. Guess how many books you will read from now through Oct. 10 and sign up with Becky Brower by sending an email to syracuse publib@gmail.com.

Record your finished books however you like: notebook, detailed spread sheet or Goodreads account. Then attend the challenge party on Oct. 10. Have fun exploring all the library has to offer. —o—

MILFORD FOOD Bank serves 13 counties in Indiana and four counties in Michigan, totaling 130 food pantries. It also works with homes, kitchens and other food pantries to ensure food is being distributed throughout the communities.

In 2022, Miller Poultry donated 8,000 pounds of chicken thighs and 300 packs of

EXCITING TIMES are occurring at the Syracuse Public Library. Work is currently underway on the new Community Roots outdoor space. J. L. Denlinger Concrete has been hard at work with an assist from Kuert Construction in preparing the space for the public’s use, as shown in the photo. —o—

JUST A reminder that as of Dec. 31, Kosciusko County Solid Waste Management has closed all nine recycling drop-off bins, including those in Milford, Syracuse and North Webster. Its board of directors cited improper recycling along with increased fuel, labor and transportation costs for their decision.

They recommend finding a curbside provider, including Borden Waste-Away Service, who will be expanding to service all of Kosciusko County early this year. If you have questions, call (574) 372-3087 or email kcrecycling@embarqmail.com. —o—

A REMINDER: The Fritchley Family Farewell Service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 8, at the Sanctuary. The family has been a member of the Syracuse community for over 20 years. The church is located at 10121 SR 13, Syracuse. —o—

REMEMBER LAST school year when the fifthgraders in Cheryl VanLaeken’s class at Milford School were recognized nationally for their “When Life Gives You Lemons, Call a Fifth Grader” phone line? This year’s class has continued the program. If you just need a quick “pick-me-up,” call (574) 8324965, and your frown will turn upside down. You won’t be disappointed! —o—

THE DEADLINE for Lakeland Youth Center’s Winter Basketball program for kids aged 3-5 and kindergarten through fifth grade is 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10. Games will start Jan. 15 and run through Feb. 25. —o—

MINI WARRIOR volleyball is about to begin at the North Webster Community Center. Online registration is still taking place until 5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10, for the season, which begins that evening. Tuesday sessions for second- and third- graders are from 5-5:45 p.m., and fourth- and fifth- graders from 6-7 p.m.

There will be five weekly sessions on Tuesdays, designed to help younger athletes learn the basics and fundamentals of volleyball. The hope is to help kids fall in love with the sport while learning beginner skills. The sessions will be coached by Nicole Beasley and Kate Leach.

To register, visit nwcommunitycenter.org/ events-1/mini-warrior-volleyball. The cost is $40 per child, plus a $1 online processing fee.

—o—

NEW HOPE Pet Rescue received a large number of applications for pets in its care. This is great news! Those running the rescue are asking for patience as they are all volunteers with full-time jobs. They also go through each application with a fine tooth comb including checking references and veterinarian contacts; that attention to detail also takes a bit of extra time. All this is done to ensure each dog or cat in New Hope’s care is placed in the purr-fect fur-ever home.

NORTH WEBSTER Community Public Library will hold its first-ever adult reading program in 2023. You can register now for the program, which will run through Tuesday, Feb. 28.

Participants can earn drawing tickets and enter them for a chance to win a fantastic prize! Tickets can be earned by reading, attending a program, completing a DIY craft or completing a puzzle “challenge packet.” Stop by the library for further information and to sign up for the program. —o—

THE FRIENDS of the Syracuse Public Library will hold another coffee social hour at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11, upstairs at the library. They will not hold their regular meetings in January or February.

SHORTLY BEFORE Christmas break, Wawasee School Board President Don Bokhart stopped by Milford Elementary to read to the kindergarten students at the school. It’s always nice to see our elected officials checking in with the constituents whom they serve!