The Mail-Journal - February 1, 2023

Sharing His Love of Music

Page 5

2023 LeadHERship women’s luncheon

The Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce their second annual LeadHERship women’s luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, at Tippecanoe Lake Country Club, Leesburg.

The event is open to women from all walks of life and the luncheon is designed to be a great opportunity for women to build their network with other women not only for business but for life.

There will be time to connect with one another, learn more about women-owned businesses, a plated lunch and an opportunity to hear from keynote speaker Shannan Martin. Packed with street-level practices and realtalk storytelling, Martin will be speaking on how to live a more

Polar Plunge returns to Syracuse

The town of Syracuse celebrated the season Saturday, Jan. 28, with “Winter Wonderland.”

Several events took place in various locations, including ice sculptures and a free movie on Main Street, a winter hike at

the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation Levinson-LaBrosse Lakes and Wetlands; and Oakwood Resort’s Polar Plunge in Lake Wawasee. Ice sculptor Howard Busfield of South Bend praised what he called a “nice day” due to the clouds and lack of wind. Sunshine, he explained, is worse for ice sculptures than warmer tem-

peratures. This year marked the first Polar Plunge since 2019 after it was cancelled due to COVID-19.

A large crowd was on hand to watch 11 individuals followed by six teams, some wearing themed costumes, run headlong into Lake Wawasee in sub-freezing temperatures. The event raised $901, which

was matched and rounded up by Oakwood Resort, for a total of $1,901 to be donated to Turkey Creek Fire Territory. Polar Plunge winners were Rick Kiessling, wearing Team USA attire in the individual round, and a team representing Huntington Street Bar, who did their plunge wearing 1970s-

Continued on page 2

Syracuse Town Council candidates filing

Cindy Kaiser, president of the Syracuse Town Council, has filed to run to represent District 3. Kaiser came on the council after a caucus to replace Tom Hoover after he moved out of the district. This will be the first time Kaiser has run in a council election.

Three candidates have come forward to replace Councilman Larry Martindale, who recently stepped down due to health reasons. A caucus to pick his replacement will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7.

David Rosenberry, who lives on Magill Court, has served at the Kosciusko County 911 center for 21 years and served on the Milford Fire Department for 28 years. He currently works in the private sector in a job connected to public safety.

Rosenberry, who was appointed to the Syracuse Redevelopment Commission in January, said he filed for the caucus because he wanted to get back to serving the community.

Nathan Scherer, who lives on Jackson Hole Drive, has filed for the caucus and the primary.

Scherer is a native of Syracuse and has four children. He has been a business owner and entrepreneur for almost 20 years. He said he was running for the council position because he feels he has a pretty good idea about where the economy is going. He would like to make sure he is doing everything he can so his children can return

to Syracuse, if they so choose, to work and raise their own families like he did.

Brian Woody who lives on North Street, had at press time filed to run in the primary in May. He had not yet filed for the caucus. Woody served on the Syracuse Town Council for a number of years before resigning in 2016 to spend

more time with his family. He said there was no specific reason for his running, other than he missed serving the community. “When I left (the council), we (his family) had a lot going on. The kids were in high school and it seemed like we had something every Tuesday night. Now the kids are all grown up,” he said.

Commissioners hear Crows Nest Drive drainage concerns

The Kosciusko County Commissioners heard concerns regarding drainage into Lake Wawasee. At the Kosciusko County Commissioners’ meeting Tuesday, Jan. 31, Carson LLP Attorney Andy Boxberger spoke.

He represents Jim Marcuccilli, who lives at Woodys Lane, Syracuse, by the lake. Marcuccilli is concerned about silt along housing development, which is near his home, going into Lake Wawasee.

Boxberger presented several photos and a video of the reported

pollution to commissioners.

“The first picture going out there, you can see the amount of silt going into the lake,” he said.

Boxberger also commented he came before commissioners because the county has control over a road in the area and “it appears that the road doesn’t maybe have the proper guttering and stormwater prevention issues.

“There probably needs to be some retention to be able to prevent this silt from going into the lake,” he said, mentioning he wants to work towards a resolution.

He also had Dr. Jerry Sweeten with Ecosystems Connections Institute speak. Sweeten, who’s

studied Lake Wawasee and is a former Manchester University biology professor, noted the damage that can be caused to lakes by runoff due to phosphorus.

Kosciusko County Commissioner Cary Groninger said commissioners recently went to the area in question and have spoken with those behind the housing development and county department heads.

“We’re still trying to work through this to try and come up with a good solution because we realize that these lakes are a huge asset to our community and we want to make sure we can maintain them for years to

Continued on page 2

meaningful life, the importance of community and how to look beyond what is comfortable by pushing past insecurity and fear. Martin is a mom, wife, neighbor and author from Goshen. She currently has three published books: “Start with Hello,” “The Ministry of Ordinary Places” and “Falling Free.” Tickets are $40 per person and are available until Monday, Feb. 6.

For tickets, visit swchamber. com/product-page/leadhershipluncheon-ticket, email sierra@ swchamber.com or call (574) 4575637. For more information about sponsorship opportunities, please visit swchamber.com/ membership-levels.

Are we headed for a winter drought?

The lakes area hasn’t seen as much snow and ice as it has in previous years. Some have even noticed the water levels of area ponds seem a bit lower than normal.

According to Rachel Cobbs, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Syracuse, the area had been in drought, but has been improving over the last few weeks, thanks to the recent precipitation the area has experienced.

Cobbs explained an area such as northern Kosciusko County can go in and out of drought fairly easily and frequently. She explained the last time the area was considered in a drought or abnormally dry was on Jan. 3. The rest of the month, the area was not considered in drought.

To determine whether an area is in drought, a variety of factors are looked at, such as the last

time the area was in a moderate drought, water levels on rivers and precipitation levels for the year and the month. As an example, Cobb pointed out the Fort Wayne area has been considered to have been below normal for precipitation until last week’s winter storm. Official climate observations for Fort Wayne are taken at the Fort Wayne International Airport.

Other factors to determine whether an area is in drought include the accumulated precipitation as of Dec. 1, comparing the 30-year average for the area with information from local farmers and the Purdue Extension Office.

Cobb said the area has been within a quarter-inch of the 30year average for precipitation since Jan. 1. “With this snowfall (from last week) there was a lot of liquid in it,” she said, explaining “the heavy wet snow had about a half-inch of liquid sitting in it.”

The National Weather Service

Continued on page 2

Kosciusko Chamber celebrates 111th annual awards dinner

The Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce held its 111th annual awards dinner Thursday evening, Jan. 26, at Grace College’s Manahan Orthopedic Capital Center, Winona Lake. Kosciusko County business professionals, along with local and state-elected officials, were in attendance as several local businesses and individuals were honored.

Rob Parker, the chamber’s president and CEO, welcomed ev-

eryone to the event. The evening’s keynote speaker was Indiana Secretary of Commerce Bradley Chambers. The Government Excellence Award was given to Kosciusko County Council member Sue Ann Mitchell. Matt Linville, who presented the award, said, “She is a wise steward of Kosciusko County knowledge, and no one has more government insight than she does.”

Continued on page 2

Commissioners hear

Continued from page 1

come,” said Groninger, adding that a committee may be formed to address the problem.

Grant Applications

Commissioners also approved allowing county officials to apply for several grants.

They allowed Kosciusko County Community Corrections Director Barry Andrew to apply for two grants: a $350,755 one for community corrections and an $82,746 one for drug court.

They also allowed Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Chris McKeand to apply for a $15,000 Indiana Department of Natural Resources grant to help pay for the KCSO’s boat patrol.

Fee Increases

Commissioners also approved several fee changes.

One was brought by Kosciusko County Jail Matron Michelle Hyden. Commissioners agreed to raise a fee related to sheriff’s sales from $200 to $300 based on the portion of that amount for legal fees going up.

They also approved new fees for Kosciusko County Health Department services at the request of its Administrator Bob Weaver. Those include: Annual food permit, $50, up from $20; daily food permit, $15, up from $3; birth certificate, $10, up from $7; death certificate, $10, up from $5; paternity affidavit, $10; septic permit, $50, up from $25; and well permit, $25, up from $10. In other business, commissioners:

Approved appointing Katie Wonderly to the Pierceton and Washington Township Library Board.

Approved requests for two properties to be part of the Tippecanoe and Chapman Lakes Regional Sewer District.

One is located by Forest Glen Avenue and Stanton Road in Tippecanoe Township and the second is on Chapman Lake next to the sewer district. Heard an update on the Kosciusko County Parks and Recre-

Kosciusko Chamber

Continued from page 1

The Main Street Impact Award was awarded to ONE TEN Craft Meatery. Honorable mention was given to the town of Milford and Urban Retrend, Warsaw.

The LaunchPad Family-Friendly Business Award recognizes a business that provides innovative and creative solutions to support their employees’ family and/or child care needs. The award was presented to Tippecanoe Valley School Corporation, which opened an infant-toddler program at Mentone Elementary School for employees’ children. Honorable mentions for the award were given to Da-Lite and Zimmer Biomet.

The Making a Difference Award was presented to KCV Cycling Club for improving the community through events, bicycle safety education and local trails. Honorable mentions were given to Akzo Nobel and Rural King.

The Rising Star Award is given to Kosciusko County’s highest performing new company and this year’s award was presented to DreamOn Studios. Honorable mentions for the Rising Star Award were given to Ledgeview Brewing Company and Legacy Family Chiropractic.

recipient is Kosciusko Connect. Since December 2021, it has connected nearly 5,000 customers and continues to expand its services. Honorable mentions were given to the 802 Center Apartments and Warsaw Parks Department.

This year’s Business of the Year Award was presented to Silveus Insurance Group. Chris Wiggins, who presented the award, said, “Over the past 83 years, Silveus Insurance Group has had a monumental impact on our community. Their leadership and staff have served on numerous influential boards, and in 2022, the company and its employees financially supported 44 unique charities.”

Honorable mentions were given to Medartis and Paragon Medical.

Lauren Klusman, the chamber’s director of marketing and communications, presented the Ambassador of the Year Award to Shawn Brown, publisher of Lake City Living.

The Kosciusko Young Adult Professional of the Year Award was given to Heather Lardino.

Parker recognized Lake City Bank with a plaque for celebrating its 150th anniversary and being one of the founders of the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce.

ation Board from its President Rob Bishop. He was joined by three of the other four members of the board: Mike Cusick, Aggie Sweeney and Vice President Troy Turley. Bishop said the group is currently working on a master plan, which will allow the board to apply for grants. That plan should be submitted by April 15. Before it’s submitted, the board will have three meetings for public input on it.

Approved making Bob Conley the president of the county

board of finance again and Kosciusko County Treasurer Michelle Puckett its secretary.

Approved a request brought by Kosciusko County Highway Department Superintendent Steve Moriarty to reroute traffic from SR 19 on CR 900N to SR 15 for about two-three weeks due to upcoming roadwork in the area.

Commissioners’ next meeting is 9 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14, in the Kosciusko County Courthouse’s Old Courtroom.

Polar Plunge

Continued from page 1 inspired wigs and clothes. Members were Travis Luke, Dave Hoeflinger, Jason Miller and Colin Mikel.

“It’s been several years, so it’s really good to see such a good turnout,” said Oakwood General Manager Alyssa Trout. After the plunge, participants and others enjoyed music and festivities at

the Oakwood Resort restaurant, where musical duo Loose Folkers provided live entertainment. Kiessling, a North Webster resident who had never before participated in the Plunge, called the experience “exhilarating and a lot of fun.” He chose to take part both because it was a good cause and “just to do it. … Life’s not a dress rehearsal.”

The Community Development Award honors a business that has shown an outstanding contribution to community development in Kosciusko County. This year’s

Barbara Ridley was named the 2022 Woman of the Year. TimesUnion Editor David Slone, who presented the award, said, “Our

Are we headed

Continued from page 1

Dr. Nate Bosch, director of the Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams, said the center works with the weather service and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to forecast potential drought.

The Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams uses 12 stream sensors throughout the county to help it determine water levels.

Bosch said center personnel haven’t seen anything that looks

out of the ordinary this winter.

Matt Burlingame, assistant director of research at the Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams, referred to a study done between 2001-2013 on Lake Wawasee and Syracuse Lake. The study looked at lake water influences during normal years, 2011 and 2013, and a drought year, 2012.

In 2012, northern Indiana experienced below average rainfall and above average temperatures, contributing to water levels in Lake Wawasee and Syracuse Lake falling 18 inches below nor-

Woman of the Year has been a very active and committed member of our community for many years. She is a true servant leader and lives her life very intentionally.”

The 2022 Man of the Year is Allyn Decker, director of com-

mal. The water levels returned to normal in early 2013.

In response to lake residents’ interest in the causes of changing water levels and how they can help prevent levels from falling below normal in the future, the center developed water budgets for the lakes and watershed area to determine influences on water levels.

The study looked at inflow into the lakes, with precipitation being the biggest factor, and outflow, with the Turkey Creek Dam outlet being the largest contributor

in 2011 and evaporation flow the largest contributor in 2012 and 2013.

munity engagement at Ivy Tech Community College. Doug Hanes of 1st Source Bank presented the award, stating, “Our Man of the Year has worked tirelessly on behalf of everyone in Kosciusko County for over 30 years.” conducts drought evaluations every week, with the reports published every Thursday.

The study also showed residential irrigation along with industrial and agricultural irrigation were not an influence as first assumed, but still impacts the lakes, especially during drought years.

The study concluded the main causes of changing lake levels are uncontrollable factors.

Last year was exceptionally rainy, causing flooding and high flows for several weeks.

Obituaries

James Clarence Alford

Longtime WHS Teacher

James Clarence Alford, 88, known to most as “Jim,” passed away at home in Maitland, Fla., on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023. He was a longtime resident of Syracuse.

Born in Huntington on May 20, 1934, Jim was the son of the late Russell T. Alford and Zelda H. (Schoeff) Alford. He spent his formative years there, graduating from Huntington Township High School with the class of 1952. He was a natural athlete, playing basketball and baseball and running track. He served in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958, transferring to the Army Reserves before he was honorably discharged. Jim worked as a radio repairman while serving.

Following his service to the country, Jim attended Ball State University, earning a master’s degree in industrial arts. He went on to teach industrial arts classes, spending more than 34 years in the classroom, much of which was with Wawasee School Corporation. He also kept his thumb on athletics, especially track, where he was the starter, firing the shot to start the race and coaching Little League; his heart was always in basketball, where he was varsity scorekeeper for more than 48 years.

Personally, Jim is remembered for his love of family, his good sense of humor, his love of family, his ability to know seemingly everyone (he was quite social) and his love of family. His love for his family was surpassed only by his love for the Lord; Jim was a member of Asbury United Methodist Church in Florida and Calvary United Methodist Church in Indiana.

Married to Joan Gordon on Aug. 3, 1956, the pair shared more than 66 years together; Joan survives. Also surviving are son, Steve (Sherri) Alford of Athens, Ala.; daughter, Ann (Michael) Heiny of Winter Park, Fla.; grandson, Jim Heiny of Winter Park, Fla.; and sister, Barb (Gene) Biberstein of Bluffton.

He was preceded in passing by two sisters, Sonja Holloway and Nancy Rice; and brother, Jack Alford.

Titus Funeral Home, 1001 S. Huntington St., Syracuse, is entrusted with Jim’s care. Visitation will be held there from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2. The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 3, at Calvary United Methodist Church, 801 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. Burial will follow in McClintic Cemetery, Syracuse.

Memorial gifts are appreciated to Calvary United Methodist Church or to Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation, P.O. Box 548, Syracuse, IN 46567.

Oshie Thomas Waddell Sr.

Retired From Weatherhead-Dana

Oshie Thomas “Tom” Waddell Sr., 78, Pierceton, died Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023, at Mason Healthcare.

Tom was born April 22, 1944, in Flatwoods, Ky., the son of (the late) Randolph and Jean (Long) Waddell. He married Margaret (Carpenter) Waddell in Portsmouth, Ohio, on Oct. 24, 1963.

Tom retired from Weatherhead-Dana in Syracuse after 32 years with the company. He was an avid fisherman, hunter and car enthusiast who enjoyed attending shows in his 1947 Chevrolet.

Tom is survived by Margaret Waddell, his wife of 59 years; and their children: daughters, Kimberly (Steve) Steller and Sandra (Dennis) Hall, both of Pierceton, and son, Oshie T. “Tom” (Melissa) Waddell Jr. of Churubusco; grandchildren, Janelle Hall and Levi Hall, both of Pierceton, Bradley Waddell of Swayzee and Micah Hall of Chicago, Ill.; stepgrandsons, Evan Love and Owen Love, both of Churubusco; greatgrandchildren, Olivv Waddell, Ivy Grace Waddell and Fraya Waddell, all of Swayzee, and Noah Hyde of Pierceton; and his brothers, Terry (Sis) Waddell of Franklin Furnace, Ohio, and James Craig (Debbie) Waddell of White Oak, Texas.

In addition to his parents, Tom was also preceded in death by a son, Johnny Waddell.

Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, at McHattonSadler Funeral Chapel, 105 S. First St., Pierceton. Visitation was from noon to 1 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Burial was in Mock Cemetery.

The family’s preferred memorial is the American Cancer Society, online at donate3.cancer.org or by mail to P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.

To share a remembrance of Tom or to offer condolences to his family, please visit mchattonsadlerfuneralchapels.com.

Judy Diann Blackwell

Retired Advertising Manager

Judy Diann (Byrd) Blackwell, 79, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, surrounded by her husband and loved ones. She was born April 16, 1943, in Kansas City, Mo., the daughter of the late James F. and Marjorie (Frank) Byrd. Judy was raised in Kansas City and graduated from North Kansas City High School and the University of Missouri with a degree in journalism. She retired after 26 years as advertising manager with Phelps Dodge Magnet Wire Company. Judy fought a long and hard battle with multiple sclerosis for many years with her husband by her side.

Judy is survived by her husband, David S. Blackwell III; stepdaughter, Molly (Jeff) Hunter; grandsons, Zachery and Carson Hunter; sister, Jane (Tom) Williams; brothers, John R. Byrd and James (Terry) Byrd; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and stepson, David S. Blackwell IV.

Funeral service was held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 31, at D.O. McComb and Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 E. Dupont Road, Fort Wayne, with visitation one hour prior. Visitation was also from 4-7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30, at the funeral home. Private burial in Highland Park Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Stockbridge Audubon Society, Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control or donor’s choice.

To sign the online guestbook, go to mccombandsons.com.

Bernadine Leiter

Antique Store Owner

Bernadine “Bernie” Leiter, 92, Syracuse, joined her heavenly Father on Friday, Jan. 27, 2023, at The Waters of Syracuse.

Bernie entered this beautiful world on June 8, 1930, and was the daughter of William and Caroline (Berning) Bradtmueller. At age 16, she graciously left high school to aid her family. On June 12, 1948, she married Army Veteran Wayne Leiter in Fort Wayne.

Determined to complete high school, she attended night school at Warsaw Community and earned her GED in 1984. For nearly 30 years, Bernie worked as a bookkeeper for her and Wayne’s local business, Town and Country Sheet Metal and Roofing Company. Bernie and her husband were entrepreneurs who owned and operated both an antique and ceramic store in Silver Lake.

Bernie was an active member of the Missouri Synod Lutheran Church. She used her God-given talents to sing in the choir, teach both Sunday and Bible school and serve in the Ladies Auxiliary Guild. She faithfully served at The Lions Club in Silver Lake.

She utilized her crafting skills to crochet hats for premature babies and afghans for veterans. Known by those around her as the “Scrubby Queen,” she handed out dish scrubbies to everyone she loved. She was involved in the development of the Hope Lutheran Church in Bonita Springs, Fla., and the Shepherd by the Lakes Church in Syracuse, which she devoutly attended.

Bernie spent her retirement years teaching ESL, singing with the Mellow Aires at nursing homes and serving as a member of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League. She loved playing cards with her family, watching Westerns, collecting and crafting with seashells and spending countless hours crocheting.

She was preceded in death by her parents; 12 siblings; loving husband, Wayne; and infant son, Gary Lynn.

Bernie, or Grandma B as she was affectionately called, will be deeply missed by her three sons, Mark Leiter of Syracuse, Ward (Suzanne) Leiter of Spring Hill, Fla., and George (Stacey) Leiter of Syracuse; four granddaughters; two grandsons; eight great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Service will be at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, at Shepherd by the Lakes, Syracuse. Pastor Jerry Winegarden will be officiating the service.

In lieu of flowers, Bernie requested memorial contributions be made in her honor to Shepherd by the Lakes of Syracuse, 7449 E. 1000N, Syracuse, IN 46567 or K21 Health Foundation’s Cancer Support.

To sign the guest book or send a condolence to the family, please visit mchattonsadlerfuneralchapels.com.

Falls happen any time of year

Half of the 32,000 deaths caused by falling happen to folks 75 years or older.

Falling is second only to heart disease as the major cause of deaths and aging is the number one factor involved in these fatalities.

Three major causes of the more than 35 million falls reported annually are a step, slip or trip, all of which can be prevented, according to a consensus of health officials across the land.

Maintaining a healthful regimen is the initial process in the campaign to avoid falling.

Eat regularly and drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. Develop and a keep up a regular exercise program that includes stretching and balance exercises as well some stamina, such as walking or swimming or biking.

Get regular medical checkups as well as hearing and vision tests.

Talk with your doctor about the effects and interaction of the medications you’re taking and ask if you should add vitamin D or calcium to the list.

Meet with them immediately if you’re having light-headed, dizzy or fainting spells.

Have all your prescriptions filled at one pharmacy and get your supplements there so you can discuss how everything interacts.

When you get home, remove all loose mats and rugs that make

easy trip-over material. Check your furniture layout to ensure you have plenty of room to move around. Get rid of excess pieces that may look nice but are in the way.

Wear non-slip footwear around the house.

If it’s suggested that you might need a walker or cane, get one, and use it. Consider getting a medical

alert device, especially if you’re living alone.

To avoid slipping, install non-slip flooring in your tub/shower and install grab bars at critical spots in the bathroom.

Add nightlights and handrails along the corridors that lead from your bedroom to bathroom.

While you’re at it, install night

Lyle Eugene Becker U.S. Army Veteran

Lyle Eugene Becker, 74, Syracuse, passed away at 11:07 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 29, 2023, at The Waters in Syracuse.

He was born Oct. 20, 1948, the son of Paul R. and Lucille (Frick) Becker in Kendallville. On Nov. 23, 1968, he married Nancy E. Gates.

Lyle graduated from Ligonier High School in 1966. He then attended International Business College in Fort Wayne in 1968, where he played baseball and met his beautiful wife. Lyle went on to serve his country honorably during Vietnam in the United States Army.

He owned and operated Paul R. Becker & Sons with his brother for over 37 years. Lyle was a sports fan who enjoyed playing softball, golf, basketball and bowling. As he grew older, his passion for sports only grew as he cheered his grandchildren on and kept track of sports stats.

He was a hard worker and very meticulous in everything he did. He served on the Ligonier Parks Board for many years and was also a member of the Jaycees and the American Legion.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Nancy Becker of Syracuse; two children, Andrea “Dee Dee” (Tom) Schermerhorn of Ligonier and Mike Becker of Wawaka; seven grandchildren, Rachel (Luke) Fisher, Elle Saggars, Zachary (Victoria) Becker, Madison Schermerhorn, Luke Schermerhorn, Mia Becker and Lyla Becker; two great-grandchildren, Blair and Blake McNamara; two siblings, Richard (Tana) Becker of Fort Wayne and Jackie (Mike) Sparks of Syracuse; along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Terry Becker and Donald Becker; and a granddaughter, Allison Schermerhorn.

A funeral service will be held in Lyle’s honor at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 3, at Yeager Funeral Home, 1589 Lincolnway South, Ligonier. Military honors will be rendered with burial at Oak Park Cemetery in Ligonier.

Family and friends will be received from noon to 2 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, at the funeral home. There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the service on Friday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to West Noble Athletic Department.

Yeager Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family online at yeagerfuneralhome.com.

Eugene A. Sauder

Former CPA

Eugene “Gene” A. Sauder, 94, passed to the presence of his Lord and Savior Friday, Jan. 20, 2023, surrounded by his family after an unexpected cancer diagnosis.

Gene was born Dec. 31, 1928, in Mansfield, Ohio. He was the ninth and last surviving child of Aaron and Katie Schneider Sauder. In 1952, Gene graduated from Ohio University with a bachelor of science in commerce. On Sept. 13, 1953, he married the love of his life, Katherine “Kate” Graff, and they began their life together in Parma, Ohio. Together they would have two children, Mark and Brenda.

The family moved to Elkhart, where Gene had a successful career as a CPA. Gene and Kate eventually moved to Scottsdale, Ariz., in 1982. Gene and Kate were very involved in Gideons International and attended Immanuel Bible Church. They celebrated 58 wonderful years together until Kate’s passing in 2012.

Gene was passionate about sharing the good news of the gospel to those he encountered, and always had a spare Bible to share. He was a great listener, had an infectious smile and boundless energy. Gene touched countless lives with his compassion for others. He enjoyed riding his bike 14 miles almost every day until his final months. He cherished spending time with his family and friends.

Gene will be greatly missed by his son, Mark (Carol); grandchildren, Stephen and Courtney, Scottsdale, Ariz.; sister-in-law, Phyllis (Herb) Hueni, Osceola; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Kate; his daughter, Brenda; brothers, Paul (Marion) and Charles (Marcella); and sisters, Martha (Bill) Schuff, Bertha (Ferol) Miller, Elma (Arlie) Kiser, Wilma (Don) McCutchan, Louise (Bill) Heckel and Miriam (Bob) Bird.

Services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at Mishler Funeral Home, 461 W. 900N, Milford. Visitation will be from noon to 2 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow at Milford Cemetery. A celebration of life service will also be held at 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at Immanuel Bible Church, 6017 E. Greenway Road, Scottsdale, Ariz. Memorial contributions may be directed to Gideons International, cultivatefoodrescue.com or stvincentdepaul.net/give.

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

lights and handrails along the stairs to your basement and bedroom. Keep all passages well lighted and clear of rugs and objects you can trip over.

Store everything — canned goods, tools, laundry soap — within easy reach without the need of a ladder or step stool.

Mature Life Features Copyright 2023

Accidents/Incidents

Kosciusko County

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

5:17 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, North CR 700E, north of North Sullivan Road, Leesburg. Driver: Shayla L. Shumpert, 17, West Bay Bridge Court, Columbia City. Shumpert’s vehicle slid into a utility pole. Damage up to $2,500.

1:45 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, 2058 E. 450N, Leesburg. Driver: Tristan J. Pass, 21, East Armstrong Road, Leesburg. Pass’ vehicle left the roadway and hit a mailbox. Damage up to $2,500.

1:27 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, East CR 550N, north of North CR 100E, Leesburg. Driver: Cordelle H. Obacz, 20, West Brooklyn Street 4, Syracuse. Obacz’s vehicle left the roadway and hit a utility pole. Damage up to $5,000.

7:22 a.m. Friday, Jan. 27, North CR 400E, north of east CR 200N, Warsaw. Driver: James M. Heath, 32, North CR 475E, Leesburg; and William S. Fawley, 66, East

CR 400N, Warsaw. Fawley’s vehicle spun out due to icy road conditions and struck the front of Heath’s vehicle. Damage up to $10,000.

5:13 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 26, West CR 900N, west of SR 15, Milford. Driver: Ricky E. Elkins, 36, Van Buren Street, Walkerton. Elkins’ vehicle left the roadway and entered a ditch with standing water. Damage up to $10,000.

Incidents

7:59 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 29, 4800

block East CR 1000N, Syracuse.

Officers investigated a report of domestic battery.

12:16 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, 200

block East CR 575N, Leesburg.

Brian P. Norman and Pauline Norman reported a lost or stolen license plate. Value: $30.

4:38 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 24, 400

block West Tanya Avenue, North Webster. Officers investigated a report of a domestic disturbance.

Milford

Officers with the Milford Police Department investigated the following incident:

Incident

6:31 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, 3900 block East CR 1050N, Syracuse. Joe I. Hapner reported damage to a mailbox.

North Webster

Officers with the North Webster Police Department investigated the following accidents and incident:

Accidents

12:48 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30, 57

EMS W23 Lane, North Webster.

Driver: Keenan S. Vanwert, 40, EMS W23 Lane, North Webster. Vanwert backed her vehicle into a wooden post. Damage up to $10,000.

1:14 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, East Washington Street and SR 13 N., North Webster.

Drivers: Dawnitta

M. Trafan, East Epworth Forest Road, North Webster; and Lee

Firefighters dispatched to Milford house fire

Warsaw

Officers with the Warsaw Police Department investigated the following accidents: Accidents

11:21 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, 3000 block of Commerce Drive, Warsaw. Drivers: Drew M. Pearson, 37, West Northcrest Lane, Claypool; and Charles E. Nyers, 42, South Syracuse Webster Road, Syracuse. Pearson lost control of his vehicle due to icy road conditions and struck the left side of Nyer’s vehicle. Damage up to $2,500.

11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, Commerce Drive, south of Lake City Highway, Warsaw. Drivers: Charles E. Nyers, 42, South Syracuse Webster Road, Syracuse; and Trey A. Seban, 26, West US 30, Larwill. Nyers lost control of his vehicle due to icy road conditions and struck the rear left side of Seban’s vehicle. Damage up to $10,000.

6:21 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 24, North CR 100E, south of East CR 300N, Warsaw. Driver: Catherine A. Porter, 27, Lehman Drive, Milford. Porter’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage up to $5,000.

Jail Bookings

Kosciusko County

The following people were booked in Kosciusko County Jail:

Jan. 30 — Melanie Lynn Green, 50, 201 E. Greenhaus Drive, Apt. 9, Syracuse, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Bond: $750 cash.

Milford Fire Department, with assistance from the Leesburg Fire Department, responded to a structure fire around 7:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30, at 105 N. Maple St.

According to Brian Haines, one of the responding firefighters, flames were visible coming from the back of the garage when responders arrived at the scene. With its windows boarded up and some noticeable exterior damage, the house was still standing and intact.

Footprints of the firefighters could be seen leading to a large hole in the roof, where the fire managed to burn through and was engaged by the responders. “It took about 30 minutes to

get the fire under control,” said Hanes. The house had been vacant for some time and there were

no injuries. The cause of the fire is undetermined and still under investigation.

Letter to the editor

Samaritan’s Purse appreciates donors

4:05 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 26, North CR 300E, south of EMS

D20 Lane, Milford. Driver: Brant

A. Stuckman, 21, West Allen Street, Syracuse. Stuckman’s vehicle left the roadway and hit a barbwire fence. Damage up to $2,500.

11:28 a.m.

Thursday, Jan. 26, North CR 200E, north of East Armstrong Road, Leesburg. Driver: Jerad C. Crooks, 40, South Main Street, Bourbon. Crooks’ vehicle left the roadway and hit a utility pole and irrigation power box. Damage up to $50,000.

9:10 a.m.

Thursday, Jan. 26, 1

Arnolt Drive, Pierceton. Drivers: Elizabeth D. Seward, 27, South Third Street, Pierceton; and Drew

M. Wood, 32, North Blacks Court East, North Webster. Seward was backing from a parking space when she hit Wood’s vehicle. Damage up to $5,000.

11:58 a.m.

Wednesday, Jan.

25, East Hatchery Road, west of North Denzel Drive, Syracuse.

Driver: Kurt A. Shade, 58, East Snow White Road, Cromwell. Shade’s vehicle left the roadway, hitting a utility pole and small tree. Damage up to $10,000.

3:43 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 24, North CR 750E, near East CR 500N, North Webster. Drivers: Michele C. Payton, 59, East CR 600S, Warsaw; and Robert P. Perales, 37, North Sawgrass Lane, Leesburg. Payton was backing her vehicle when she hit Perales’ vehicle. Damage up to $1,000.

9:17 a.m. Monday, Jan. 23, North Old SR 15, east of West CR 600N, Leesburg. Driver: Teddy D. Burchett, 30, East Market Street, Warsaw. Burchett’s vehicle left the roadway and rolled onto its top. Damage up to $10,000.

4:19 a.m.

Monday, Jan. 23, West CR 900N, west of SR 15, Milford.

Driver: Marvin C. Snyder, 68, North Harris Street, Bourbon. Snyder’s vehicle left the roadway, breaking an REMC utility pole. Snyder’s vehicle then rolled onto its top. Damage up to $50,000.

A. Baumgartner, 62, B40A Lane, Leesburg. Trafan accidentally stepped on the gas pedal while stopped at the intersection and struck the back of Baumgartner’s vehicle. Damage up to $1,000.

1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, North SR 13, south of B7 Lane, North Webster.

Driver: Larry M. Stauffer, 64, East Brown Road, Leesburg. Stauffer’s vehicle slid on the roadway and hit a tree. Damage up to $5,000.

Incident

10:48 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 28, 300 block of South Main Street, North Webster. Sandwich bags and Nerds candy were stolen from Neighborhood Fresh Market. Value of $7.44.

Syracuse

Officers with the Syracuse Police Department investigated the following accidents and incident:

Accidents

5:23 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, East Pickwick Road, east of South Harkless Drive, Syracuse. Drivers: unknown; and Scotty C. Lancaster, 59, East Sleepy Hollow Parkway, Cromwell. A black Jeep Wrangler rear-ended Lancaster’s vehicle. The driver of the Jeep left the scene. Damage up to $10,000.

3:25 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, 1

Warrior Path, Syracuse. Drivers: Jaiden J. Rocha, 16, Prairie Drive, Syracuse; and Rylee P. Firestone, 17, North Sullivan Road, Leesburg. Rocha was backing her vehicle when she hit Firestone’s vehicle. Damage up to $5,000.

2:32 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, North Oak Street, north of CR 1300N, Syracuse. Driver: Nathan J. Utter, 35, West Emeline Street, Milford. Utter’s vehicle slid off the roadway and got stuck on the train tracks. An approaching train did not have time to stop and hit Utter’s vehicle. Damage up to $25,000.

Incident 8:50 a.m. Friday, Jan. 27, 300 block North Huntington Street, Syracuse. Officers investigated a report of battery.

Jan. 28 — Rebecca Ranshell Hendrix, 33, 272 E. Nelson Drive, Milford, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Bond: $700 cash.

Jan. 28 — Aubrey Ann Coy, 43, 4865 E. 1000N, Syracuse, booked for domestic battery. Bond: $1,000 cash.

Jan. 27 — Lester Miller, 61, Leesburg, booked for failure to appear. Bond: $5,000 surety.

Jan. 26 — Cody Owen JuarezSanford, 31, 704 N. Dolan Drive, Syracuse, booked for domestic battery-moderate bodily injury. Bond: $6,000.

Elkhart County

The following person was booked in Elkhart County Jail:

Jan. 27 — Brandon Craig Miller, 39, 68525 Jefferson St., New Paris, booked for possession of cocaine or a narcotic drug, possession of methamphetamine and possession of a hypodermic syringe or needle. Bond: $3,000.

Marshall County

The following person was booked in Marshall County Jail:

Jan. 30 — Ramon C. Santiago

II, 30, Syracuse, booked for driving while suspended with prior. No bond listed. Noble County

The following person was booked in Noble County Jail: Jan. 25 — Kenneth D. Strock, 49, 103 Holiday Lane, Cromwell, booked for possession of methamphetamine and possession of paraphernalia. No bond listed.

Dear Editor, I am writing to thank area residents for sharing the true meaning of Christmas with children in need this past holiday season. Generosity throughout contributed to a successful shoebox gift collection season at drop-off locations for the Samaritan’s Purse project Operation Christmas Child. Across the U.S., the project collected over 9.3 million shoebox gifts in 2022. Combined with those collected from partnering countries in 2022, the ministry is now sending nearly 10.6 million shoebox gifts to children worldwide. Through shoeboxes — packed with fun toys, school supplies and hygiene items — area volunteers brought joy to children in need

We welcome readers’ letters.

around the world. Each gift-filled shoebox is a tangible expression of God’s love, and it is often the first gift these children have ever received. Through the continued generosity of donors since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 209 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories. This year, Samaritan’s Purse delivered its milestone 200 millionth shoebox, which was packed on a countrywide tour and then hand-delivered to a young girl in Ukraine.

Across Indiana, shoebox packers often shop for deals on shoebox items throughout the year, and many serve at a deeper level by becoming a year-round volunteer. Information about ways area

participants can get involved year-round can also be found at samaritanspurse.org/occ or by calling (937) 374-0761.

Although local drop-off locations for gifts are closed until Nov. 13-20, anyone can still be a part of this life-changing project by conveniently packing a shoebox gift online in just a few simple clicks at samaritanspurse.org/ buildonline.

These simple gifts, packed with love, send a message to children worldwide that they are loved and not forgotten.

Sincerely, Casey Goodwin Samaritan’s Purse Media Relations Specialist Operation Christmas Child

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.

Habitat application period now open

Kosciusko County residents may now apply for a Habitat for Humanity home.

“Starting Jan. 30, anyone who wants to apply for our Homeownership Program can stop by our office 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday and get an application,” said Ben Logan, director of the local Habitat affiliate. The office is located at 3970 Corridor Drive, Warsaw. A follow-up appointment to submit the application and review next steps must take place no later than 3 p.m. Friday, March 3. The path to Habitat homeownership is rigorous but re-

Court News

Small Claims

The following small claims have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Turkey Creek Fire Territory v. Kristina R. Allen, $1,680; v. Keyana Hann, $1,448.26; v. James Records, $1,713.60; v. Travis

warding. “All of our homeowners will tell you the process takes hard work and patience,” said Logan. “That begins with the application. They would also tell you it’s completely worth it.”

A complete, detailed guide is available at kosciuskohabitat. org/homeownership.

“If you aren’t sure whether you should apply, or you just want to understand the process a little better, we invite you to attend a free info session. It will include a presentation about the application process, followed by a Q&A,” said Logan. Applications are also available at these

Vanover, $1,569.60 Superior Court III

The following infraction has been filed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: No valid driver’s license — Robin A. Welsh, North Webster, $160.50

206 S. Main St. P.O. Box 188 Milford, IN 46542-0188 Phone (574) 658-4111 1-800-733-4111 FAX 800-886-3796

events. Info sessions will be held at the following times and locations:

• 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, at Warsaw Community Church, 1855 S. County Farm Road, Warsaw. The meeting will take place upstairs in Room C456. Please enter through the main entrance.

• 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, at Town Hall, 201 W. Main St., Mentone. For more information about Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County, visit kosciuskohabitat.org or follow them on Facebook @kosciuskohabitat.

102 E. Main St. Syracuse, IN 46567-1119 Phone (574)

Published by The Papers Incorporated every Wednesday and entered as Periodical Class matter at the Post Office in Syracuse, Indiana 46567. Periodical Class postage paid at 102 E. Main Street, Syracuse, Indiana 46567 and at additional entry offices.

SUBSCRIPTION: Newstand rate $1.50 per copy, $47.00 per year in Kosciusko County, $58.00 per year in Indiana and $68.00 per year out of state.

Publisher, Ron Baumgartner rbaumgartner@the-papers.com

Business Manager, Annette Weaver ........aweaver@the-papers.com

Editor-In-Chief, Deb Patterson dpatterson@the-papers.com

Director Of Marketing, Steve Meadows ....smeadows@the-papers.com

Advertising Manager, Bill Hays ..............bhays@the-papers.com

POSTMASTERS: Send change of address forms to The Mail-Journal, P.O. Box 188, Milford, Indiana 46542-0188.

The Papers Incorporated reserves the right to refuse for publication any advertising that is considered offensive, misleading or detrimental to the public, the newspaper or another advertiser and to edit advertising at its discretion.

DEADLINES: Legal copy, 5 p.m. Monday, classified copy and display copy, 11 a.m. Tuesday.

PRODUCTION: The Mail-Journal is digitally composed on Macintosh Computers using Digital Technology’s Newspaper Publishing Suite Software and Photoshop software. Ads may be submitted as PDF’s & E-mailed to adcomp@the-papers.com. If you have any questions give us a call and we’ll walk you through it.

Local Ball State University singer shares his love of music

Editor’s Note: On Friday, Feb. 10, the entire 40-student cast of the Ball State University Singers will be on stage at Wawasee High School for a 90-minute show filled with musical treats from solos to group numbers. General admission tickets are $10, VIP tickets are $20 and both are available at the door or through chautauquawawasee.org. The performance will be held from 6-7:30 p.m.

Devin Van Lue, a recent graduate of Wawasee High School, shares his journey from his early introduction to music at Syracuse Elementary School to his membership in the Ball State University Singers.

My musical background began at Syracuse Elementary School with my music mentor, Kris Stump. Mrs. Stump offered me the role of a mouse in Wawasee High School’s production of “Cinderella.” From then on, I was involved with Wawasee Performing Arts as a lighting and sound operator, backstage crew, ensemble and in leading roles. My most memorable role was playing Prince Eric in our production of “The Little Mermaid” this past spring.

Mrs. Stump offered me the opportunity to play in Wawasee High Schools’ marching band.

I played in the front ensemble, marched in the percussion battery and served as a drum major for three years. I also played percussion and saxophone for pep band and concert band. My freshman year, I auditioned for Vocal Motion, Wawasee’s top show choir. Music was a large part of my education at Wawasee, but it wasn’t all I did. I was also a member of Key Club, Student Council, Drama Club, The International Thespian Society, National Honor Society, Boy Scouts and Relay for Life. Being a part of all these programs made me into the man I am today.

I thoroughly enjoyed every program I was involved in. The programs gave me inspiration for choosing my future career as a music educator. These groups allowed me to grow as a leader and a student, which tremendously prepared me for college.

When I first toured Ball State University, I heard of the Ball State University Singers and I was excited to audition this past spring. I did not receive the chance to be in show choir all the way through high school, so I knew this was something I wanted to do.

The audition process was super easy but also intimidating. This past April, we were asked to prepare two songs, one upbeat and one slow. We sang our pieces in front of the director and all previ-

ous cast members.

Following the singing portion of our audition, we then learned a dance with the dance captains and had to perform the song with choreography. My voice teacher, Shannon Rose, also attended my auditions and greatly helped me prepare for this.

It wasn’t until June 16 that I learned I was a member of the Ball State University Singers. I was so excited to make this group because I knew it was going to be my favorite part of college. The director sent out an email to all the members who made the group that day. I was thrilled to get the news and I couldn’t wait to share it with my family and friends.

The Ball State University Singers is currently in its 59th cast and is recognized as Indiana’s Official Goodwill Ambassadors, singing songs of faith, hope, laughter and love. These four pillars make up the foundation of the Ball State University Singers and our directors encourage us to follow these pillars in our everyday life. We as singers are expected to rehearse at least twice a week for several hours.

We travel all over the state to run clinics with high school show choirs and we perform for Ball State and other community events. We prepare music with our theme of faith, hope, laughter and love throughout the en-

tire year. We will learn our music and the choreography that goes with it. All the music we prepare stays in our repertoire leading up to our annual Spectacular performance in April.

I was extremely blessed to be a part of this amazing cast. BSU Singers has transformed my college experience into an amazing one. I am honored to be able to represent the talent at Wawasee at a collegiate level.

I plan to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in vocal and instrumental music education. I choose this degree because of my true passion for music and the amazing educators who got me to this point.

Kris Stump, Shannon Rose, Connie Meadows and Toni Pawlicki taught and trained me into the performer I am today and for that I am truly grateful. I could not have received this opportunity without their love and support Being a member of the BSU Singers has given me more passion for pursuing this degree because of the amount of joy that is spread through this group. From a glee club member to an audience, everyone is in for a spectacular show. There is a treat for everyone throughout the entire performance sharing our faith, hope, laughter and love.

Here at Ball State, I was instantly surrounded by loving people pursuing their dreams. This made getting adjusted to college much easier. Along with the Ball State University Singers, I also participate in Concert Choir and Cardinal Chorus. These programs train us in an exciting way to be a performer of skill and consistency.

During our performance, our

North Webster Community Public Library — ‘Speed dating’ with books for Valentine’s Day

Looking for a new reading love? Why not try “speed dating” with books?

The North Webster Community Public Library will be hosting a book speed dating event from 3-4:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10. Attendees will each get to spend three minutes with a variety of new-to-you fiction books with the hope one of them will “spark” an interest.

Have fun getting to know different books you might not normally read. Register in advance and specify whether you prefer large print or regular print books. Sign up in person or by calling (574) 834-7122.

Weekly Library Events

The following activities are set to take place at the library. Attendees do not need a library card to participate in any of these events.

Adult Events

Family tree building workshop, 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8. Get expert help from experienced genealogists in creating or finishing your family tree.

Fiber Arts Friday, 10 a.m. Fri-

day, Feb. 10. If you like to knit or crochet, come gather with like-minded yarn enthusiasts to work on projects or get inspiration.

Teen Events

Have the afterschool blues?

Stop by between 3:30-5:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6, 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, Feb. 9. Teens can stop by to work on homework in a relaxed, social environment.

Teens are invited to attend the Creative’s Corner from 3:304:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10. Use your imagination and create something extraordinary.

Youth Events

Preschool Story Time, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8. Bring your child for a fun time of stories, songs, activities, crafts, learning and socialization. Appropriate for ages 3-6. Register in advance.

Baby and Toddler Story Time, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14. Preregistration has begun, so stop in or call the library and let them know if you and your child plan to attend. LEGO builders, ages 5-12, are invited to meet at the library at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, for some freestyle fun. LEGOs are provided — just drop in and join the fun.

For more information about any library events, call (574) 834-7122, visit the library’s website at nwcpl.org or click onto the library’s Facebook page.

audience will be thrilled with all sorts of music ranging from pop to musical theater. Following our performance, the glee club will be outside the auditorium to meet and greet. We would love to share

with you more information on the group and future performances. I could not be where I am today without the support of my amazing community. We hope you enjoy the performance.

Milford Public Library — Create a valentine for February LEGO Challenge

The annual Adult Reading Program is in full swing. 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 18 or older can join the program. So far, 41 people have signed up. Drawings are each Friday before the library closes. If you are already reading, why not join the Adult Reading Program and maybe win a $25 gift card. Stop by the library for more information.

February LEGO Challenge

The monthly LEGO Challenge for February is to create a valentine. The winner will take home a new LEGO kit. Be sure to enter the challenge by Feb. 24. Children preschool through eighth grade are invited to submit a photo of their creation to milford@milford. lib.in.us. The library staff will choose a winner from the submissions. They have a challenge each month during the school year. LEGO Saturdays are the first Saturday of each month from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. FebruaryMay. The whole family is welcome to come and build things with the library’s collection of LEGOs. Free Jigsaw Puzzle Exchange

During the winter months, the Milford Public Library has a puzzle exchange. The puzzles available are located by the adult circulation desk. You can bring in

a puzzle you have completed and exchange it for a “new” puzzle. There are all kinds of puzzles, most with 500-1,000 pieces. Come in and browse today.

Update OverDrive And Libby Apps

Attention, OverDrive app users: OverDrive is discontinuing the legacy OverDrive app in early 2023 and transitioning users to the Libby app. Libby is OverDrive’s newer app for browsing and enjoying digital content from the library.

It’s time to give Libby a try. All your loans, holds and wish list items will be waiting for you in Libby when you add your library card. Libby also comes with new features they know you’ll love,

such as:

• Tags to categorize books however you’d like — you can even sync your OverDrive wish list into a tag.

• A central bookshelf for all loans and holds.

• Customizable notifications for ready holds, new magazine issues and more.

• Compatibility with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Sonos speakers.

• Easy access to OverDrive support staff. Learn more at overdrive.com/ apps/libby/switchtolibby.

Note: The library’s digital collection will continue to be available at overdrive.com on desktop and mobile devices.

Warrior boys wrestling team wins sectional championship

The Wawasee Warrior boys wrestling team won the sectional championship Saturday, Jan. 28, at Plymouth High School.

Kaleb Salazar, 106, received a first-round bye and won by forfeit in the second round. Salazar proceeded to defeat Laville’s Peyton Cline by fall in the semifinal and Warsaw’s Bryce McNees by decision in the championship round, winning the sectional championship.

Cameron Senter, 113, defeated Warsaw’s Drake Shilling (fall), Plymouth’s Alonzo Chantez (major decision) and Culver Academies’ Cole Meiser (tech fall), on his way to a sectional title.

Luke Stuckman, 120, placed 4th. Colten Sutton defeated Triton’s Emily Jones (fall), Bremen’s Bryce Darmer (fall) and Plymouth’s Coen Kraemer (decision) in the championship round, winning the sectional title.

Titus Taylor, 132, placed 3rd, defeating Plymouth’s Christopher Firebaugh (fall), in the 3rd-place match.

After a first-round bye and second-round forfeit, Logan Stuckman, 138, defeated

Laville’s Brayden Reed (fall) in the semifinal round and Plymouth’s Seth Wright (fall) in the championship round, winning the sectional title.

Ethan Rodriguez, 145, placed 2nd, defeating Bremen’s Dylan Goff (fall), Culver Academies’ Kevin Huang (fall) and Warsaw’s Grant Cook (fall), before losing by decision to Plymouth’s Wesley Smith in the championship round.

Hunter Miller, 152, received a first-round bye and then defeated Plymouth’s Luca Giodano (fall), Warsaw’s Danny Moon (major decision) and Laville’s Justin Brown (technical fall) in the championship round on his way to a sectional title. Carson Nine, 160, placed 5th.

After a bye and forfeit in the first two rounds, Gavin Malone, 170, defeated Laville’s Ethan Sailors (fall) before being defeated by Triton’s Elijah Cox in the championship round, finishing in 2nd place.

Cameron Zimmerman, 182, defeated Triton’s Vincent Prater (fall) and Laville’s Jon Ziola (fall), before falling to Warsaw’s Jaxson Cooper Walters by decision in the championship round, finishing in 2nd place.

Donovan Blair, 195, defeated Triton’s Esai Lemler (fall) and

Warrior boys swim team finishes 3rd at NLC championships

ing in 47.37.

Tippecanoe Valley’s Bazle Owens (decision) before being defeated by Laville’s Paul Dewitt

(decision) in the championship round, finishing in 2nd place. Derek Morrison, 220, placed

5th and Eleazar Vazquez, 285, finished 6th. Next meet: 9:00 a.m. Satur-

day, Feb. 4, Indiana High School Athletic Association Regional at Penn High School.

Warriors edge Lakeland, lose to Concord

The Wawasee Warrior boys varsity basketball team defeated Lakeland, 53-50, Saturday, Jan. 28, at Lakeland.

The Warriors took a 25-15 lead into halftime with the help of some hot shooting. The team scorched the nets early, shooting 50% from 2 and 46% from 3, knocking down six triples in the first half. Lakeland shot 27% from two and did not make a single three throughout the first two quarters.

Lakeland turned things around in the third and fourth quarters, shooting 50% from 2 and 36% from 3, outscoring the Warriors, 35-28, but couldn’t overcome their halftime deficit. Wawasee shot 50% from 2 and 45% from 3, making 10 threepointers. Sophomore guard Maddux Everingham led the Warriors with 19 points, knocking down five triples. Junior forward Collin Ziebarth scored 17 points, draining three three-pointers. Sophomore guard Myles Everingham led the Warriors with five assists

and senior forward Collin Roberson led the team with seven rebounds.

The Warriors lost to Concord, 48-39, Friday, Jan. 27, at Concord.

Neither team could muster much offensively as Concord took a 22-16 lead into the halftime break. The Warriors were efficient from the field, shooting 46% from 2 and 50% from 3, but only took 19 shots throughout the first two quarters. In comparison, Concord was able to get off 28 shots, shooting 45% from 2 and 37% from 3.

The Warriors played very competitively throughout the third and fourth quarters, basically matching Concord basket for basket, but they just didn’t have enough firepower to get the victory.

Sophomore guard Myles Everingham led the Warriors with 12 points and four assists. Sophomore guard Maddux Everingham chipped in 11 points. Senior forward Peyton Felger led the team with six rebounds.

Next game: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, at home versus Northridge.

The Warrior boys swim team finished in 3rd place at the Northern Lakes Conference Championships Thursday, Jan. 26, at Northridge High School.

The 200 medley relay team of Nathan Harper, Keegan Hurst, Zack Kryder and Nate Kryder finished in 4th place with a time of 1:43.84. Cade Garden was 6th in the 200 free, finishing in 1:53.55.

Indiana Wesleyan-bound senior Nate Kryder was 3rd in the 50 free, clocking in at 22.28. Kryder finished 3rd in the 100 fly with a time of 54.61. Harper was 2nd in the 100 free, finish-

Noah Mettham made the podium in the 500 free, finishing 7th in 5:24.32. The 200 free relay team of Ivan Meier, Dakota Nguyen, Mettham and Garden finished 5th, clocking in at 1:38.29. The top eight finishers from each event made the podium.

Harper won the NLC championship in the 100 back, finishing in 53.20. Zack Kryder was 4th, finishing in 57.99.

The 400 free relay team of Nate Kryder, Garden, Zack Kryder and Harper was 2nd, finishing in 3:19.21. Concord finished 1st with 441 points. NorthWood came in 2nd with 298 points. Wawasee finished 3rd with 293 points.

Lady Warriors fall to NorthWood in basketball sectional

The Lady Warriors’ season came to a close in the Fairfield sectional, losing to NorthWood, 50-42, Tuesday, Jan. 31, at Fairfield High School. Wawasee put up a valiant effort

and was in the game until the very end. Both teams were trading baskets early. Sophomore forward Molly Beer scored early to knot the game 2-2. Sophomore forward Olivia Horn followed by nailing a left-wing jumper to even the game 4-4. Junior guard Kaydence Shepherd stole the ball and drove in for

the layup, putting Wawasee up 6-4 with 3:58 left in the 1st quarter. The score was tied 6-6 at the end of the quarter.

Harper, Zack Kryder, Coltin Bucher, Nate Kryder, 1:50.56, 1st;

200 free, Harper, 1:54.31, 1st;

200 IM, Zack Kryder, 2:18.67, 1st; 50 free, Cade Garden, 24.50, 1st; 1-meter diving

Isaac Winters, 166.30, 1st;

100 fly, Garden, 1:04.83, 1st;

100 free, Nate Kryder, 52.04, 1st; 500 free, Harper, 5:12.34, 1st; 200 free relay, Harper, Garden, Ivan Meier, Nate Kryder, 137.85, 1st; 100 back, Nate Kryder, 1:02.98, 1st;

100 breast, Stone Shipley, 1:10.89, 2nd; 400 free relay Noah Mettham, Bucher, Dakota Nguyen, Zack Kryder, 3:51.31, 1st. “The guys had a great meet last night with strong performances from the divers and swimmers,” said head coach Jason Scott.

Next meet: 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, Indiana High School Athletic Association sectional at Concord High School. Basketball JV boys basketball — Jan. 27 lost to Concord 49-29. Jan. 28 lost to Lakeland 4239. Next game: 6:15 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 2, at home versus Northridge. Freshman boys basketball — Jan. 26 lost to Concord 53-20. “Tough battle with a thin lineup tonight. We will learn from tonight,” said coach Andrew Wilson. Jan. 30 defeated NorthWood 47-42.

“After a tough week last week, we had a great team effort to beat a very tough NorthWood team. Very proud of our entire team tonight,” said Wilson. Next game: 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at home versus Angola. Gymnastics Jan. 26 vs. Lakeland: The

Lady Warrior gymnasts finished in 2nd place with 60.275 points; Senior Trinity LaJoice placed 2nd all-around; Freshman Alyssa Kunish placed 4th. Jan. 30 at East Noble: The Lady Warriors finished in 2nd place with 42.35 points. “Trinity LaJoice got a PR on vault with 8.2, tying her for 3rd place. LaJoice placed 4th on bars and 4th all-around. Olivia Ousley placed 5th on beam and tied for 5th on vault,” said coach Molly Liston. Next meet: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, at home versus DeKalb.

NorthWood freshman guard Aaniyah Bonner and sophomore center Claire Payne both scored early in the 2nd quarter, giving NorthWood a 10-6 advantage. Sophomore guard Mackenzie Hackleman drove and scored to close the gap to 11-8 with 4:22 left in the 2nd quarter. Hackleman followed up with a mid-lane bank shot, getting Wawasee within 1110. After a basket by Bonner, Horn scored on a strong move down low, was fouled and completed the three-point play. Horn followed up with a nearly identical move down low to give the Lady Warriors a 15-14 lead with 1:22 left in the 1st half.

NorthWood junior guard Karis Bennett drilled a 3-pointer to give the Lady Panthers a 17-15 lead. Bennett was then fouled on NorthWood’s next trip down the floor; she made both free throws. Horn scored a layup, making the score 19-17 NorthWood at the half.

Horn opened up the scoring in the 3rd quarter, tying the game, 19-19. Bonner then scored for NorthWood. Hackleman hit a driving layup and was fouled on the ensuing possession, making one of two free throws, bringing Wawasee within two, 24-22, with 5:40 left in the 3rd quarter. Bennett then hit a right-baseline jumper, giving

NorthWood a 26-22 lead. Payne scored five straight points to give the Lady Panthers a 31-22 cushion. Beer hit a right-baseline jumper to close the gap to, 31-24, with 2:17 left in the 3rd quarter. NorthWood sophomore Brooklynn Redd came into the game and scored two quick baskets down low, giving NorthWood a 35-25 lead. Wawasee sophomore guard Lucy Wilkinson then answered with a two-point jumper, making the score 35-27, NorthWood, who led 36-27 at the end of the 3rd quarter.

Shepherd drilled a huge three from the left wing to start the 4th quarter. Wilkinson then drained a three, bringing the Lady Warriors within five points, 38-33. Bennett had a rebound basket to give the Lady Panthers a 40-33 lead. A layup by Horn cut the NorthWood lead to five points, 40-35, with 3:55 remaining. The Lady Warriors continued to fight, but just couldn’t quite overcome the deficit. Wawasee started to full-court press NorthWood, causing a 10-second violation. Shepherd then stole the ball and scored, cutting the NorthWood lead to eight, 46-38, with 1:19 left. Both teams traded free throws over the final minute, with NorthWood coming out on top.

Horn led the Lady Warriors with 14 points. Shepherd added 12 points. Next game: Season completed. Final record: 11-12.

Mardi Gras pancake supper supports WHS band trip

Over spring break the Wawasee High School Marching Band will be traveling to Orlando, Fla., where they will march in a Disney parade.

Director Tony Pawlicki’s goal is to take the band on a trip like this once every four years so all band members will have the experience during their high school career. What a great way of encouraging band members to stick with the rigorous practice and competition schedule.

In support of the band, from 4:30-7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 15, the North Webster United Meth-

NWES announces trimester honor roll

North Webster Elementary School has announced its honor roll for the first trimester.

All-A Honor Roll

Third grade — Brantley Corrao,Addison Gardner, Lilah Sibery, Paxton Stuckman, Quentin Likens, Sophia Long, Caleb Wilson, Lucy Dawson, Emmarson Gunkel, Asher Popenfoose, Kaidan Somers, Parks Francis, Graysen Shipley and Rylie Weavers.

odist Church, 7822 Epworth Forest Road, will be hosting a Mardi Gras pancake supper.

“Why pancakes?” you may be asking. In the week leading up to Lent, a season of fasting, it’s your last chance for eating comfort food.

While you’re enjoying supper, in true Mardi Gras style, you’ll be entertained by various musicians, and there will also be kidfriendly games — all for the price of a goodwill offering. Let’s show community support to our hardworking Wawasee High School Marching Band.

Local students named to dean’s list

The following local students have been named to the dean’s list of their respective colleges/ universities:

Manchester University Milford — Shantel Hamman, Alex Llewellyn Syracuse — Leo Wrage

Fourth grade — Zoe Boros, Spencer Warren, Brooklyn Heimann, Bronson Allen, Noah Marion and Savahanna Somers.

Fifth grade — Megan Menzie, Olivia Wake, Kaleigh Corn, Lainey Jacobs, Lexi Mahns, Emry Soto, Sylus Steele, Kourtney Caldwell, Keagan Gardner, Emma Hunt, Claire Jagger and Genevieve Zachary.

A/B Honor Roll

Third grade — Mickey Clark, Blythe Crabill, Carter Deters, Skylar George, Jaxon Green, Chase McClintic, Vincent Padilla, Julian Perales, Colin Rasnake, Karlie Sheets, Indica Stephen, Fayte Cummings, Tyler Gittings, Adix Green, Lucy Loehr, Chelsey Morseau,Vivian Oliphant, Justin Reid, Luis Sifuentes Ceballos, Abigail Sturgill, Damein Thorn.

Ava Avery, Kendra Cooper, Adlynn Fisher, Emery Lawrence, Lane Likens, Jace Northrup, Mason Roes, Ahliyhanna Walker, Joey Zachary, Jacob Allen, Camb-

rie Garden, Zane Grady, Nicholas Hardiek, Quinn Harman, Sam Kompagne, Griffin Lauck, Lathan Mahns, Wyatt McLaughlin, Gavin Phillips, ElliAnna See, Nathan Spaw and Raena Steg.

Fourth grade — Jaxon Andrade, Brystol Caverly, Bailey Fuerste, Norah Hagan, Isabella Johnson, Jackson Meck, Jesse Miretti, Odysseus Olsen, Paisley Perkins, Samantha Tharp, Braxton Allen, Jaxon Alwardt, Bentley Arnold-Malik, Isabelle Caudill, Dante Corrao, Angel Hochestetler.

Kinsey Jacobs, Cassi Rector, Connor Savage, Ameliah Schmerber, Jaxson Thornsbearry, Jackson Clark, Naevia Doty, Brooklynn Griffin, Aryann Lockhart, Audree McLaughlin, Wesley Morris, Jaxson Rumbaugh, Andrew White, Noxx White and Layla Whitton.

Fifth grade — Emilia Berry, Allyannah Goldsworthy, Maeve Harman, Ethan Lilly, Brody Maisonneuve-Smith, Morgan Rater, Trevor Roberts, Marley SalvoMcDaniel, Jaxon Bainter, Kennedy Francis, Bransyn Rolston, Scarlett Sibery.

Eilif Tuura, Cassandra White, Chance Woolums, Zoey Bradley, Zalen Eldridge, Colson Garden, Lillian Howard, Hadley Lauck, Breanna Macy, Alana Malstaff, Blaine Smith, Vanessa Villa, Landon Williams and Hayden Wortinger.

Community Corner

Sexton enjoys role in preschool education

Jana Sexton admits she never intended to go into preschool education. She took a job at New Beginnings Preschool and Child Care in Milford in 2005. When asked how she became interested in working with kids, she laughingly said, “I never wanted to.”

“In 2005 there was a shortage of jobs, and I saw an ad in the newspaper that said they were hiring,” she elaborated. “I came in and thought ‘it will just be until I find something else.’ When I got here, my interview consisted of being put into a room. When I left, there was a little girl who asked the director, ‘Where did that woman go?’ The director said ‘She went home,’ to which the little girl said, ‘Well, don’t you think you should call her back?’”

Seventeen years later, following a break in 2012, Sexton came back in 2014 and is still on the job, although her role has changed and expanded since she first began nearly two decades ago as a lead teacher.

Sexton, who holds an associate’s degree in child development, has served as the curriculum coordinator for the past six years. Her primary role is overseeing the facility’s four age-divided classrooms and the educational component for its 41 children, although she wears many different hats throughout the course of any given day.

“My job is to go into the classrooms, observe the teachers and make sure they are implementing our curriculum,” she said. “We are currently shortstaffed, though, so I fill in for classrooms when need be. If I need to go into the kitchen I go into the kitchen. I take care of the food program, which is USDA funded. I figure out scheduling, hiring people. Pretty much whatever is needed is what I do.”

Sexton said when she first started in 2005, they also offered a program for school-aged kids, which meant there were close to 100 children in total. The school system eventually began offering before- and after-school care, so New Beginnings cut back to preschool programming. “I was told I would never have any children of my own,” Sexton said. “So I thought, ‘This is what I was supposed to do.’ When I turned 38, I had my daughter, Kensington. She’s 8 and is a third grader at Milford Elementary. She comes with me here in the morning, and then I zip her over there.”

joys doing art with her daughter. She added they recently set up a pottery wheel for Kensington, who also enjoys painting. Sexton said every day is different, which is what she enjoys most about her job.

PROFILE

“I love watching the kids grow,” she said. “Especially in the infant room, watching them learn to walk. Everyone likes the infant room.” She enjoys when she is at Milford School and children approach her, saying “Miss Jana, Miss Jana!”

“They’ll chase me down the hall and hug me, she said. “I actually have a family who has two little boys here right now. They also have a daughter who is 18 now and was in my first class. She’ll come in and drop her brothers off, and she remembers me!

“A big misconception people have is that all we do is play or that we’re baby sitters,” Sexton concluded. “We put a lot of time into our lesson planning and early education. I wish people knew there was so much more than us just watching their children.”

When she’s not at work, Sexton said she en-

Mobile Meals drivers

Volunteer drivers for Syracuse, Milford and North Webster Mobile Meals have been scheduled as follows:

Syracuse Drivers

Feb. 6-10

MONDAY — M. Smith

TUESDAY — P. Smith

WEDNESDAY — J. Rowland

THURSDAY — C. Hill

FRIDAY — M. Smith

Milford Drivers

Feb. 6-10

MONDAY — B. Harkness

TUESDAY — D. Haney

WEDNESDAY — D. & G. Coo-

per

FRIDAY — S. Weisser

North Webster Drivers Feb. 6-10

MONDAY — G. Smith

TUESDAY — Bart’s Watersports

WEDNESDAY — Need driver

THURSDAY — Need driver

FRIDAY — J. Parcell

THURSDAY — L. Kammerer

If you haven’t been screened for cervical cancer yet–or if you haven’t had a screening in the last few years–now’s a good time to get back on a regular schedule. Cervical cancer is nearly 100% preventable and treatable with routine screenings and HPV vaccination, so schedule an appointment today. And if you need a follow-up visit, Goshen Health offers the personalized service and expertise you won’t find anywhere else.

Dr. James Lindemulder joins Goshen Physicians OB/GYN

Board certified obstetrician and gynecologist James Lindemulder, DO, is joining Goshen Physicians OB/GYN March 1. He specializes in women’s health care, including minimally invasive surgical techniques, routine checkups and screenings and care throughout pregnancy.

“Dr. Lindemulder brings more than three decades of experience in treating women’s health needs to Goshen Physicians,” said Randy Christophel, Goshen Health president and chief executive officer.

“Our community welcomes his clinical approach and dedication to caring for the whole person, not just treating the condition or disease.”

Lindemulder holds a doctor of osteopathy from Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, now Midwestern University, in Chicago, Ill. He received a Bachelor of Science in biology from Univer-

sity of Illinois in Chicago, Ill.

CLASSIFIEDS

Phone Or Fax In Your Ad

Before 11 A.M. Tuesday MILFORD

574-658-4111

FAX 800-886-3796

WARSAW

574-269-2932

FAX 888-371-2934

$925 ONLY

*15 Word Maximum ONE COLUMN BOXED ADS

$7.60 per column inch for one to three insertions. $6.30 per column inch for four or more insertions of the same copy.

Patients may contact Goshen Physicians OB/GYN for an appointment, (574) 533-0560. The office is located at 1122 Professional Drive, Goshen. INDEX

ANNOUNCEMENTS ....................A005-A100

BUSINESS SERVICE...................C010-C430

EMPLOYMENT.............................E010-E080

FARM ...........................................G010-G070

FINANCIAL ..................................H010-H030

INSTRUCTION .............................K010-K020

SYRACUSE 574-457-3666

It happened in North Webster ... 50 years ago Chris Schenkel featured in Sports Illustrated

10 YEARS AGO, JAN. 30, 2013

Jeff Corn, the current president of Indiana Vintage Snowmobile Club, reminded everyone the North Webster Winter Festival is on regardless of ice conditions on Webster Lake. The show and activities will take place at the North Webster Community Center Saturday, Feb. 9.

signed a contract to seal the deal. Presently, the LYC is using the gymnasium for basketball practices, games and physical conditioning. NWCC is also now being used by a large group of individuals for daily walking.

son. Pam Kennedy accepted patterns and items for the club’s newsletter, which will include names of area shops and quilt shows as well as helpful hints and ideas.

50 YEARS AGO, JAN. 31, 1973

ALL CLASSIFIED ADS MUST BE PRE-PAID Tree Service C390 Call Dan The Tree Man 574-831-4381 New Paris

At last report, there are still a few spaces open for the first Re-New-You Women’s Retreat of North Webster, which will welcome women from the Indiana region and beyond to attend a weekend retreat at the Epworth Forest Convention Center.

Word on the street is Lighthouse Cafe is moving into the old P.J. II location at SR 13 and Armstrong Road.

20 YEARS AGO, JAN. 29, 2003

The Lakeland Youth Center board of directors, headed by Keith Ort, have officially partnered with the North Webster Community Center. On Thursday, LYC officials and NWCC officials

Vice President Effie Hickman called the Jan. 8 meeting of the Hoosier Auxiliary of Barbee Lakes Conservation Club to order. The meeting was held in the conservation building. A carry-in luncheon was served at noon with Pat Friddle and Ann Harter as hostesses.

Carlyn Cox, president, entertained members of Goodwill Club Jan. 8 in the fellowship room in North Webster United Methodist Church. Juanita Miller, vice president, opened the business session.

30 YEARS AGO, FEB. 3, 1993

The North Webster Lions Club, along with Buddy International, is offering artists, crafters and flea market vendors a “summer ‘93” opportunity to sell products.

It happened in Milford … 30 years ago

Lakeland Kiwanis Club recently presented check to the Boy Scouts and Girls Scouts in North Webster. Kiwanian Jim Redslob, chairman of the Youth Services Committee, gave the Girls Scouts’ donation to Marilyn Wesseling, the Daisy Troop leader. Redslob also presented a check to Bob Merchant, Scout master of Boy Scouts of American 726 in North Webster.

40 YEARS AGO, FEB. 2, 1983

The third-grade classes at North Webster Elementary School have been studying units on the circus in preparation for their trip to the Shrine Circus Feb. 4. Mrs. Donnie Butts, R1, North Webster, went to the school Jan. 31, painted tattoos on the faces of all the third graders and showed them several special clown faces.

Isa Smith, Sechrist Lake, and Deloris Wyler, Big Barbee Lake, were guests at the Jan. 24 meeting of Lakeland Quilting Club held at the home of Miriam Ma-

Chris Schenkel, the ABC sports announcer who is becoming well known and well loved in the Lakeland area, is featured in the Jan. 22 issue of Sports Illustrated. Schenkel and his wife, Fran, and children, Ted, Christina, Chris, Fran, John and Petey the dog, live on Lake Tippecanoe. Don Martin, inter-club chairman, reported the Lakeland Kiwanis Club had 100 percent of its membership attending interclubs during the year. At the Jan. 22 meeting, Jay Boyer gave the invocation.

Mrs. Carol Calloway, Rev. John Weeks and Stuart Walker attended the Crosier House of Studies in Fort Wayne this week. They studied effective church planning for the future.

rated cannot screen all advertisements to eliminate possibilities of fraud or misleading information. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Persons responding to ads are advised to contact the

Bureau in your area or the

Auction Sales A010 BUYER BEWARE The Papers • Tree Removals • Competitive Prices • Tree Trimming • Free Estimates • Storm Damage Cleanups • Climbing Or Bucket Lift Available EMPLOYMENT General Employment E030 NOW HIRING! Do you want a new career and work outside? Join Our Fun & Ambitious Team! Also, position available for retired or semi-retired individual with ¾ ton truck. Dan The Tree Man 574-831-4381 Work Wanted E080 HONEY DO HANDYMAN & RENO. We do it all - remodels, repairs, scrap removal, lawn care and all your general home needs. Give Brad or Jessica a call at 574-253-5462, we would love to be able to help.

Jack Stump is new general manager at Milford Motors

10 YEARS AGO, JAN. 30, 2013

Jason Brune, the former owner of Diamond Auto Sales in Milford, has joined the Auto Park auto dealership in Warsaw as its new manager. The Auto Park was closed for a time, but just reopened under Brune, CEO Ken Norris and Brent Forry. Brune said, in a press release, the company will focus on customer satisfaction and service to the community.

Brian Schlabach, a third grade student at Milford Elementary School, participated in the Indiana Chess State Tournament in Indianapolis Saturday. Brian came in 53rd out of 64 kids in the Third and Under Division. He has been involved in the Milford School Chess Club since last year. His parents, Duane and Ann Schlabach, are very proud of him, as this was an extremely competitive event to qualify for and to participate in.

20 YEARS AGO, JAN. 29, 2003

Kindergarten students at Milford Elementary School celebrated 100 days of kindergarten last Friday. The children count-

ed 100 snacks, did 100 exercises, had 100 seconds of silence, talked about what they would do with $100, and drew a picture of what they would look like at 100 years old.

Dr. Andrew Anglemeyer will be moving his medical practice back to Milford from New Paris this spring. Anglemeyer’s new office space will be housed in the building which formerly housed Sharp’s Hardware on Main Street, next to the Pill Box.

Legacy Five is returning to the area for another concert, thanks to the efforts of Phil Gingerich. The Milford dairy farmer has been organizing local gospel concerts for several years.

30 YEARS AGO, JAN. 27, 1993

Jack (McClintic) Stump, a native of Milford, is the new general manager at Milford Motors, SR 15. Stump, who is no stranger in the car business, was formerly employed at C.S. Myers Ford and was general manager with Eby Ford, Goshen. Since retiring from the U.S. Navy, Stump and his wife, Chris, have moved back to Milford. Stump said he

came back to sell new and used cars to a town where he knows the people.

Mrs. Everett (Caroline)

Butrick, longtime Milford resident and previous owner of the Stan Wuthrich farm east of town, observed her 101st birthday on Jan. 21. Mrs. Butrick is residing in her home at 22391 CR 10E, Elkhart, Ind. 46514.

Della Baumgartner has returned from a week’s vacation with a group of friends, including Al and Joan Moss of Flora, aboard Celebrity Cruises’ ship, the “Zenith.” Approximately 1,400 people were on the cruise.

40 YEARS AGO, FEB. 2, 1983

Ron Wuthrich, son of Mr. and Mrs. Glen Wuthrich of r 2 Milford, is involved in a program through Indiana University’s School of Public and Environmental Affairs where he will help solve public problems, free of charge.

Wuthrich’s project is just one of many Lilly financed projects where the students work under the supervision of an assigned faculty member as an extension of their classroom studies.

We don’t know how she does it but Phyllis Beer at J W’s has to have the most fantastic memory around. She must know the favorite drink of half the people of Milford. If there were a “best waitress” award Phyllis would undoubtedly be one of the top candidates!

50 YEARS AGO, JAN. 31, 1973

Terry Tucker, executive vice president of Maple Leaf Farms, Inc., has been elected president and Richard Jones, controller, has been named treasurer of the Milford firm, which is the leading independent producer of ducklings in the U.S. Beverly McKinney of Milford is currently student teaching at Abilene high school. She is teaching a political science class. Beverly is one of 60 students at Hardin-Simmons university in Abilene, Texas, who is student teaching in area schools.

Mrs. Vernon May of Milford had a house full of company for her Sunday birthday. Some 35 to 40 persons stopped at the May home to wish her a happy day.

Art Institute of Chicago

This week we want to tell you about a fun and educational art museum, the Art Institute of Chicago. The museum is located in Chicago’s Grant Park and was founded in 1879.

It is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the world and is recognized for its curatorial efforts and popularity among visitors. Its permanent collection of nearly 300,000 works of art is augmented by more than 30 special exhibitions throughout the year that illuminate aspects of the collection.

The museum’s original building, which was constructed for the World’s Columbian Exposition, has expanded several times. The most recent expansion, the Modern Wing, opened in 2009, increasing the museum to nearly 1 million square feet.

The museum is the secondlargest art museum in the United States, after the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Who knew such a gem of a museum was within driving distance of the Warsaw area?

The museum received perhaps the largest gift of art in its history in 2015. Collectors Stefan Edlis and Gael Neeson donated a “collection that is among the world’s greatest groups of postwar pop art ever assembled.” The donation included works by Andy Warhol, Jasper Johns, Cy Twom-

bly, Jeff Koons, Charles Ray, Richard Prince, Cindy Sherman, Roy Lichenstein and Gerhard Richter.

Pop art is a “movement that emerged in the United Kingdom and the United States during the mid to late 1950s.

The movement challenged traditions of fine art by including imagery from popular and mass culture, such as advertising, comic books and mundane mass-produced objects.” (visit en.wikipedia.org/wiki/pop_art) If you are intrigued by pop art, the Art Institute of Chicago has a superior selection for viewing.

The collection of the Art Institute of Chicago encompasses more than 5,000 years of human expression from cultures around the world and contains more than 300,000 works of art, ranging from early Japanese prints to the art of the Byzantine Empire to contemporary American art. The museum has a mobile app that provides the stories behind the art with conversations with artists, experts and community members.

For families with children, stop by the Ryan Learning Center on Fridays or Saturdays to build a one-of-a-kind tour with activities designed for families.

Six special exhibitions are now showing:

• The Language of Beauty in African Art

• A Field Guide to Photography and Media

• Himali Singh Soin: Static Range

• Monochromatic Japanese Prints

• Kingfisher Headdresses from China

• The Vibrating Slab

The museum is open to the public from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. General admission for adults is $25 with discounts for seniors and students. Children are free. For more information, call (312) 443-3600 or visit artic.edu.

Events:

• Honeywell 92 County Competition: The juried artwork from the competition is on display at the Honeywell Clark Gallery in Wabash through Feb. 13. Many of the juried pieces of artwork are for sale and can be purchased at the gallery box office 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, call (260) 2741411 or visit honeywellarts.org.

• City Hall Art Gallery: Local artist Deana Harvey will be displaying her artwork through the end of March.

To exhibit at Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery, contact Darla McCammon, curator, at (574) 5274044 (leave a message) or email to mcdar7@gmail.com. If you would like to offer someone a free email subscription to this weekly column, send a request including the email address to mcdar7@ gmail.com.

Ball State singers to perform in Syracuse

Chautauqua-Wawasee’s 2023 spring musical program will feature the Ball State University Singers, an elite musical show choir.

The choir of 40 students, singers, dancers, instrumentalists and sound technicians will perform a wide variety of popular hit songs and musical theater in a 90-minute show at Wawasee High School.

Under the direction of Jodi Cotton-Street, the show promises to be a powerful celebration of faith, hope, laughter and love with a sparkling performance showcasing music that is encouraging, uplifting and inspiring.

Devin Van Lue, a 2022 graduate of WHS, tried out for this elite troupe of performers and won a spot in his freshman year. “This is quite an accomplishment that very few underclassmen achieve,” said Kip Schumm, Chautauqua’s program manager for the event. “He’s the primary reason we selected the Ball State program.”

The 90-minute program starts at 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are available on the Chautauqua website, chqw.org, with pricing of $10 for general admission and $20 for V.I.P. seating.

The program is sponsored by Chautauqua-Wawasee Oakwood Foundation Inc. a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide life enriching experiences to help Syracuse and the region be a great place to visit, live, work and raise a family. Tickets are also available on the ChautauquaWawasee Facebook site.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Please be advised the Governing Board of the Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District will conduct a public hearing pursuant to IC 14-336-9(b) on February 11, 2023, at 10:00 am. The hearing will convene at the Conservancy District office located at the WACF Education Center at 11566 N-State Road 13, Syracuse, Indiana. The purpose of the public hearing is to receive public input on the Harkless Drive (Lake Wawasee) dike repair and renovation project prior to Governing Board consideration of a resolution authorizing implementation of the project. Engineering drawings, specifications and cost estimates for the project can be found under the projects section of the Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District website turkeycreekddcd.org. Board of Directors Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District hspaxlp

Wedge, level and resurfacing. Pierceton Road - From Winona Lake Town Limits to Pierceton Town Limits, approximately 3.56 miles, Kosciusko County, Indiana. Wedge, level and resurfacing.

Sealed proposals will be received at the Auditors Office, 100 West Center Street, Warsaw, Indiana 46580 until 9:00 am (Local Time) on the 14th of February, 2023. Proposal shall be submitted using for each the attached itemized unit price bid sheet for each road along with the Bid Summary sheet furnished by Kosciusko County which shall be attached to a properly and completely executed Indiana Bid Form 96 (Revised 2013) accompanied by the Contractor’s Financial Statement form taken from Form 96A. Bids will be accepted only from bidders who are sufficiently and currently prequalified by the Indiana Department of Transportation. Proof of pre-qualification must be submitted with each bid.

All proposals will then be publicly opened and read aloud by the County Commissioners at 9:15 am, February 14th, 2023. Any proposals received after the above designated time will be returned unopened.

The contract documents, including specifications, are on file in the office of the Kosciusko County Highway Department, 2936 East Old Road 30, Warsaw, Indiana 46582 for review.

Security: Any person, firm or corporation who submits a proposal must file with their bid a certified check, bank draft, cashier’s check, or money order issued by a financial institution insured by an agency of the United States in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the bid,made payable to the Treasurer of Kosciusko County. In lieu of the above, any person, firm or corporation who submits a proposal and has a principal place of business in the state of Indiana may file with their proposal a bid bond in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the bid, made payable to the Board of Commissioners of Kosciusko County.

Proposals may be held by the Board of Commissioners for a period not to exceed sixty (60) days from the public opening.

The successful contractor will be required to furnish a performance and payment bond in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the contract price within ten days after the award of the contract and a two (2) year maintenance bond in the amount of thirty percent (30%) of the contract price prior to the completion and final payment of the contract. No contractor may withdraw their proposal within sixty (60) days after the actual date of the opening thereof.

The Kosciusko County Highway Department reserves the right to ask for clarification for any bid submitted. The specification herein states the minimum requirements of the Kosciusko County Highway Department. It shall be the bidder’s responsibility to carefully examine each item of the specifications. Any bid not in substantial compliance with these specifications will be rejected. It will be the responsibility of the bidder to conform to the requirements unless deviations have been specifically cited by the bidder and acceptance made on the basis of the exception.

Bids will be awarded also based on Kosciusko County being awarded Community Crossing 50/50 Grant Matching Funds from INDOT for the above listed projects.

In comparing bids, consideration will not be confined to price only. The successful bid will be the one that is judged to best service the interest of the Kosciusko County Highway Department where price, product, safety, quality and delivery are considered.

The Board of Commissioners reserved the right to reject any proposal to waive technicalities or irregularities therein, to delete any bid item or items and to award a contract on the proposal that in their judgement is most advantageous to Kosciusko County.

Rhonda Helser, Kosciusko County Auditor hspaxlp J.25-F.1

Area churches look ahead to 2023

Editor’s note: The Mail-Journal emailed a questionnaire to the leadership of local churches and Christian ministries requesting responses to the following questions:

• What do you think will be the most important issue for believers in 2023?

• What goals do you or your church or organization have for 2023?

• How is your church or ministry preparing to serve the Kingdom and community in 2023?

• What advice would you give to the readers on how to handle the challenges of 2023?

The Mail-Journal church page will publish the responses in a series of articles as they are received. This is the third article of the series.

Syracuse Baptist Church

Syracuse Baptist Church is located at 10013 N. Syracuse Webster Road, south of town. Pastor Tim Bushong tackled the questions as follows:

What do you think will be the most important issue for believers in 2023?

“Regardless of the year or the season, wholehearted obedience to God and His Law — His Word — is always central to Christian life.

Get that wrong and everything else crumbles—in the home, in the church,and in society.

“At its rotten core, sin is always irrational. It assumes, even for just a split second, that one may suspend God’s law with impunity.

“Obedience to God brings life and blessing, though, and this always spills over as tangible love for neighbor.”

What goals do you or your church or organization have for 2023?

“I preached a New Year’s sermon called ‘More of the Same for 2023,’ entailing more love for God and neighbor; more hatred toward that which God hates, especially that which enslaves my neighbor (and those philosophies that continue to divide and dilute the pure honey of the Word); and more of the same week-in, week-out corporate worship.

“To extend the manifest reign of King Jesus and to love people in a way that reflects God’s good justice — this is our mission.”

How is your church or ministry preparing to serve the Kingdom and community in 2023?

“We’ve had the privilege of supporting a church/Christian school in Liberia, assisting a Romanian missionary and his family, and helping to plant a new Church in Wabash.

“In addition, our annual ‘Jesus and Politics’ conference has grown

LITE to host nonprofit networking lunch

Living in Transition Effectively will host its second annual Lakes Area Nonprofit Networking Lunch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, at the Tippecanoe Lake Country Club, 7245 N. Kalorama Road, Leesburg. The

Around The Lakes

THIS NEW sign has been put up at North Webster Community Center, directing people where to go in the building. In fact, NWCC got all new signage throughout the building.

—o—

JOIN THE Syracuse Public Library for a 21+ special trivia night at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, at Down Under Bar & Restaurant, 801 N. Huntington St., Syracuse. Plan to come early if you want to purchase drinks or food, as the trivia will begin promptly at 6:30 p.m. See how much you know about Groundhog Day and its critter of honor.

—o—

beyond our building’s capacity, so we’ll be holding it at a different location this year.

“We continue to promote the full abolition of abortion, supporting those who pursue this goal full time.

“We’re also regularly contributing to the ‘Eschatology Matters’ podcast, joining with like-minded regional churches in their endeavors, and this year we begin a new venture, ‘Reforming Grandma’s Church,’ in which we offer helpful biblical tactics for revival and reform.”

What advice would you give to the readers on how to handle the challenges of 2023?

“We are beginning to see the cracks appear in our society’s experiment with all the alphabet soup ideologies, and yet the other side is relentless in its barrage.

“Make no mistake: There really is an ‘other’ side, one that seeks to throw off all limits of God’s created order.”

Bushong cited Psalm 2, which reads in relevant part: “Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord and against his Anointed, saying, ‘Let us burst their bonds apart and cast away their cords from us.’

“He who sits in the heavens laughs; the Lord holds them in derision. Then he will speak to them in his wrath, and terrify them in his fury, saying, ‘As for me, I have set my King on Zion, my holy hill. ...’

“Now therefore, O kings, be wise; be warned, O rulers of the earth. Serve the Lord with fear and rejoice with trembling. ... Blessed are all who take refuge in him.”

Tickets

For more information, call Tammy Cotton, LITE program coordinator, at (574) 528-1602.

Bushong exhorted Christians to “know what you believe and why you believe it. Be prepared to, as Jesus taught, love Him more than you desire the approval of anyone else, and ‘Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all you do be done in love.’” 1 Corinthians 16:13-14.

MOBILE MEALS is looking for individuals to deliver meals to seniors in the North Webster area. Anyone interested is asked to call Jennifer at (574) 267-2012 for further information.

—o—

KOSCIUSKO COUNTY TNR (trap, neuter, return) is looking for volunteers. A podcast from communitycatspodcast.com will teach how to trap cats safely. Kosciusko County TNR will reimburse the registration fee and utilize those who take the class as a trapping expert. Visit the Kosciusko Community TNR website for more information.

—o—

A SIGN on the door at Dollar General in Milford is notifying customers that the store will be closing at 6 p.m. every day for the immediate future. Apparently, when electrical repairs were being done on the outdoor signage, a problem occurred that disabled the lights in the parking lot. To better ensure the safety of their customers, store officials opted to close the store beginning around sundown until the problem is rectified.

—o—

PATRONS OF all ages are invited to stop by the Syracuse Public Library to decorate Valentine’s Day cookies from 1-5 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14, in the downstairs meeting room. Decorating will go as long as the cookie supply lasts.

—o—

NORTH WEBSTER Community Center’s Annual Indoor Garage Sale will be from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 22. It will have 100 different spaces full of interesting finds. Spend the morning inside its historic gym looking through items. Each booth costs $30. There is a maximum of two booths per person. For more information, call (574) 834-1600.

—o—

THE KNIGHTS of Columbus in Syracuse will host an all-you-can-eat pancake, sausage and scrambled egg breakfast to benefit the Wawasee High School Marching Warrior Pride from 7-11 a.m. Saturday, Feb 11. All proceeds will benefit the marching band and their upcoming competitions.

Carry outs will be available. The cost is only $6 for adult and $2 for kids under 12. You might consider throwing in a few extra bucks to the cause to help cover the cost of the food, especially the eggs, which we all know are a pricey commodity right now! The Knights of Columbus is located at 414 Sycamore St., Syracuse.

—o—

CLAYTON’S GARDEN Center is installing new flooring in the garden center but it is still open. People are asked to use the door north of the main door to enter. If you know what you need, just give Clayton’s a call at (574) 834-2249 and someone can have it ready for pickup.

money

Neff’s grandfather, Josiah W. Estep, owned several threshing rigs and had a crew of men to help with the threshing. Shown is Estep and his crew at the end of a productive day. —o—

THE NORTH Webster Lions Club will hold its annual Dan’s Fish and Tenderloin Fry fundraiser dinner from 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at the North Webster American Legion Post 253, SR 13. The address is 756 S. Main St.

This year, it’s returning to dine-in at the Legion. Carry-out will also be available. A ticket includes fish and/or tenderloin, coleslaw, chips and tartar sauce. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for children ages 6-12. Kids ages 5 and under eat for free. People can choose from fish and tenderloin, fish only or tenderloins only.

Tickets are available from any North Webster Lions Club member and at North Webster Ace Hardware and Clark’s Marine. Tickets can also be purchased at the event. Credit cards, cash or checks will be accepted at the door. Presale ticket holders are guaranteed food until 5:30 p.m.

Visit the Lions’ Facebook page by searching for “Mermaid Festival” for more information, or contact Scott Fox at (574) 527-1645.

Proceeds support the Lions Club’s various programs in the North Webster area. —o—

JENNIFER NAKASEN, owner of “A Touch Of Beauty” in Syracuse, is thanking her friends, clients and community for supporting her business by giving back to a local family in need.

“It’s been weighing on me the last few days to somehow help in my community and be able to give back,” she said. “I have talked to Syracuse Elementary School and was told about a family in an extremely hard spot right now that could really use some extra help.

“Aryel, Aiyana, Brooklyn, Jaden and I will be running a day of set services all for donations. All money made from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, will be going to this family. Services available that day include manicure/pedicure, hand/foot massage, back massage, basic mini facial, eyebrow waxing and threading, face waxing, brow tinting and lash tinting.

They will not be taking appointments, as everything will be first-come, first-served. Go and receive a service to help raise money for a family in need. Additionally, everyone who makes a donation will be entered into a drawing for the chance to win a basket full of services and products worth over $300. The shop is located at 101 E. Main St., Suite A, Syracuse.

NORTH WEBSTER United Methodist Church, 7822 E. Epworth Forest Road, North Webster, is hosting an all-youcan-eat pancake supper from 4:30-7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 15, to benefit the Wawasee High School Band. There will also be games, mask decorating, king cake and other desserts. Reserve a spot for you and your family by calling (574) 834-2871.

YOUNG ARTISTS, the Syracuse Public Library is seeking your assistance in designing T-shirts for the upcoming summer reading program. While visiting the library, pick up a template and get to work designing. This year’s theme is “Camp Kindness: All Together Now.” The contest, which is open to children ages 5-12, runs through March 3. Only one design is allowed per child. The library board of trustees selects the winner. The staff will wear the winning design this summer and the winner will also receive a T-shirt of their own.

SIGN GYPSIES of Lake City provided this awesome surprise last Thursday for the staff and students at Milford School on the 100th day of school. What a great time of the year for the school’s kindergarten and first graders!

SHOWN ABOVE is another photo from Linda Neff’s family and their threshing rigs.