The Mail-Journal - February 8, 2023

Gone But Never Forgotten

Mitchell’s murder solved 47 1/2 years later

The murder of Laurel Jean Mitchell, North Webster, has been solved.

Two arrests were made 47 1/2 years after the then 17-year-old teen was found murdered in the Elkhart River in Noble County, 20 miles east of where she was last seen in North Webster.

“I’m very thankful for all the help from everyone involved,” said Sarah Knisley, sister of Mitchell. Knisley now resides in Warsaw.

Indiana State Police announced the arrest of Fred Bandy Jr., 67, Goshen, and Jon Wayne Lehman, 67, Auburn, midmorning Tuesday, Jan. 7. They both would have been 19 or 20 years old at the time of the murder.

The pair was arrested Monday, Feb. 6, without incident, and were each charged with one count of murder. Both are incarcerated in the Noble County Jail and are being held without bond.

Mitchell’s murder went unsolved for decades. In 2014 the Indiana State Police Cold Case Investigators began looking at the case. ISP Detective Kevin Smith was involved in the investigation. “I don’t let things go very easily. I’ve worked a lot of cold cases in my career and had some success on them. I’m not letting this go,” Smith said in a statement he made in August 2021.

Laurel Jean Mitchell

In a press release from the Indiana State Police, Fort Wayne District, the break in the investigation came within the last couple months. Indiana State Police laboratory personnel were able to make an evidentiary correlation leading in-

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Syracuse will have a primary for town council, clerk-treasurer

There will be a primary race for Syracuse Town Council District 4 and the Syracuse Clerk-Treasurer. All three candidates for Tuesday’s caucus, David Rosenberry, Nathan Scherer and Brian Woody, have also filed to run in the primary election in May.

Councilman Larry Siegel has thrown his hat in the ring and is challenging incumbent Virginia Cazier for Syracuse Clerk-Treasurer. Siegel has served on the Syracuse Town Council representing

Closure could be nearing for Mitchell family

The family, and North Webster community, could be nearing closure in the murder of Laurel Jean Mitchell 47 1/2 years after her body was found in the Elkhart River in Noble County.

Unfortunately, her father, Richard D. “Dick” Mitchell, a well-known public figure in North Webster, who died Jan. 16, 2012; and her mother, Wilma Mitchell, who operated the North Webster Food Pantry for several years and also passed away in 2012, never knew what exactly happened to their 17-year-old daughter.

Fred Bandy Jr., 67, Goshen, and John Wayne Lehman, 67, Auburn, were arrested

Monday, Feb. 6, at their homes. They have been charged with Mitchell’s murder and are being held in the Noble County Jail.

The small lake community of North Webster was rocked when the murder took place. A group of interested and concerned citizens formed an organization, “Citizens For Law Enforcement.” The group raised a reward of $10,000 in less than three weeks. The group, 30 strong, decided on a course of action in the wake of growing public shock and outrage following Mitchell’s death. The funds were later returned to the donors when efforts for information leading to an arrest and conviction were futile.

Stan Holderman was a detective with the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office at the time of the murder. “It was a state police case,” he stated. “We just tagged along. We didn’t retain any of the evidence. We had a file. ... They were the first ones there.” But Kosciusko County did assist in the case. “I was involved in interviews,” Holderman recalled.

He said Indiana State Police officers Ray

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APC approves plans for Milford residential development project

District 1 for more than 20 years.

He has also served as president of the Syracuse Redevelopment Commission for many years.

In a press release, Siegel stated, “At the time I started, Syracuse had the need for comprehensive planning and economic development. I felt I had the ability and thus felt an obligation to serve. We have been able to participate in the revitalization of the Oakwood Inn and properties, develop the technology park north of town and create a pathway for Polywood’s expansion, creating hundreds of new jobs and capital improvements.

“I appreciate the support and confidence from all the people of Syracuse who recently reelected me to the town council. This election has made me aware of a yet greater need to serve.

“It is my goal to put the clerktreasurer’s office

Nathan Scherer wins caucus to replace Martindale

Nathan Scherer is the new Syracuse Town Council member for District 4.

He was elected during a caucus held Tuesday night, Feb. 7, after one round of voting. This is the first time he has ever sought public office.

Four precinct committeemen par-

ticipated in the caucus: Jim Layne, Syracuse police chief; Virginia Cazier, Syracuse clerk-treasurer; Cindy Taylor as proxy for Kim Cates, who was unable to attend; and Karen Grady.

Mike Ragan, Republican committee chair, presided over the caucus. Scherer was up against David Rosenberry and Brian Woody. All three men are seeking the council

Kosciusko County Area Plan

Commission approved preliminary plans for a residential development in Milford at its Wednesday, Feb. 1, meeting.

Kosciusko Development petitioned for the preliminary plat approval for a residential development on a 19.58-acre tract of ground.

The property is located on the south side of CR 1250 North, north

of Beer Road.

A secondary entrance has been added and sewer and water have been taken care of. The developer’s representative said at the meeting the closing on the property was conducted last week.

“We’ve addressed all the bullet points,” said Tim Saylor, president of Innovative Communities.

The preliminary plans were given to the board. Fifty-two lots are expected to be added to the new residential subdivision. A 50-foot

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Mitchell’s murder

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vestigators to the two suspects.

Smith stated in a press conference, “This case is a culmination of a decades-long investigation … and science finally gave us the answers we needed. Playing a significant role in charges being filed was the Indiana State Police Laboratory Division. We simply could not have solved this case without them.”

Smith also thanked “the news media who gave this case coverage, which kept the public informed over the years and led to many citizens coming forward with valuable information. The public’s willingness to bring forward important information was key to solving this case and I thank them.”

Also during the press conference, Noble County Prosecutor Jim Mowery commented, “While the arrest of these two individuals is a very important step, this isn’t the end. The investigation of this crime is still ongoing and the prosecution of these defendants has just begun.”

Both defendants are scheduled to have their first hearing today, Wednesday, Feb. 8, in the Noble Circuit Court.

Court Document

Affidavits were filed Tuesday in Noble Circuit Court. According to court documents filed against Bandy:

At approximately 4:16 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, Indiana State Police received a missing person report from Richard and Wilma Mitchell reporting their daughter, Laurel J. Mitchell, had not yet come home.

Around 10:30 a.m. that same day

Dana Homister contacted ISP Ligonier Post to report a body found in the river at the bridge on CR 600N, west of CR 400W in Noble County, adjacent to the Mallard Roost public access site.

State Police and local police responded and encountered Glen Dixon and his son, who had discovered the body. Dixon and Homister had returned to the scene and waded into the water and pulled the body onto the bank. When officers arrived they reported a female body lying face down on the west bank of the river near the boat landing ramp. On the body they found a class ring from Wawasee High School, class of 1976, bearing the initials LJM on the inside of the ring.

Before the body was removed, Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Deputy Burdell Blackburn arrived with a photograph of Mitchell consistent with the body found.

An autopsy was performed at Goshen Hospital, witnessed by ISP Sgt. T.P. Malone. The cause of death was ruled drowning. It was also de-

termined her death occurred rapidly, she had made a violent struggle to survive and death occurred within two hours of her last meal.

Clothing and belongings were preserved for testing — shoes, sweatshirt, undergarments, blue jeans, silver necklaces and one silver earring.

An investigation revealed Mitchell, then 17, was dropped off at work by her mother at the Epworth Forest church camp snack bar. A co-worker had offered her a ride home, but Mitchell declined, indicating she had a ride. She left work at 10 p.m. Scott Pruitt advised he saw Mitchell walking in Epworth Forest and waved at her. She was supposed to meet friends at Adventureland amusement park.

Many potential leads were provided by the public, most of which were not actionable. However, Frank Overmeyer and his wife, who lived on Epworth Forest Road, were interviewed Aug. 14, 1975.

Overmeyer reported that on Aug. 6 he heard a loud car go by and the car turned around and stopped east of their home. He reported hearing what he thought sounded like someone slamming the trunk on a car. He turned on his porch light and stepped outside, seeing two cars leaving the area. The first car was described as a red-orange GM, possibly an Oldsmobile Cutlass. The second vehicle was a medium green Mustang.

An interview with Kathryn Flynn, who lived 1/2 mile east of the camp on Epworth Forest Road, reported around 10 p.m. an old car turned into the drive next door and turned around. As it came back by her house, she told investigators she heard several voices say “Let’s get” or “Let’s get her.” The car was

Closure could be

Continued from page 1 Carich, Pat Malline and Sid Fish were the investigators.

“We interviewed a lot of people,” he said, noting Brandy’s and Lehman’s names never came up. Afraid, Devastated, Confused, Traumatized Lisa Strombeck was 12 years old when Mitchell was killed. She was friends with Mitchell’s younger sister, Sarah.

“We were afraid, devastated, confused,” Strombeck recalled. “We were a resort town flipped upside down. It scared us to death.” She also stated they were “traumatized.”

Strombeck, like other youngsters in the area, went to Adventureland to play arcade games. They would also ride their bikes to Epworth Forest. “It was safe then, so we thought.”

Her father, Tony Strombeck, was town marshal at the time. “He was very involved. There were cops everywhere constantly. It was scary.”

She recalled that for quite some time they didn’t go outside in the evening and stayed around their homes.

A two-part podcast was released Tuesday, which Lisa was listening to, bringing back memories and causing her to relive that summer. “I didn’t realize there were other things going on at the same time,” she said, mentioning a rape a block away from her home and behind where Mitchell lived earlier in the summer.

“I knew Laurel. She was a good person, involved in her church, sang with the choir, a very nice person. She was not some body who was out running around ... “I’m relieved for the family that its over for the most part. I wish her parents could have been here.”

She remembers her father, who died in March 2020, talking about the case a lot up until the last couple years of his life. She recalled him telling about the FBI being present along with other

Dam and dike board to meet Saturday

The Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District Board will hold a public hearing at 9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11.

very loud and probably a dark color.

No arrests were made and the case remained opened for many years. In 2013 Noble County Detective Shawn Dunafin was contacted by Ranae Sexton, Port Charlotte, Fla. Dunafin lived in Noble County in 1975 when she was 16.

She stated she went on a date with a man named John Wayne Lehman and while on the date they went to a party. As he was driving her home, he admitted his involvement in a crime he committed with a friend, Fred Bandy. Details of the crime were told to Sexton consistent with findings made by police.

Bill McDonald was interviewed July 3, 2014, at the Ligonier Police Department. He was a sophomore in 1975 at West Noble High School and socialized with Bandy. After Mitchell’s murder, McDonald told police, Bandy told him he had committed the crime that took place at Mallard’s Roost.

On Sept. 25, 2019, Noble County Sheriff’s Det. Joe Hutsell met with Rick Johnson about the case. Johnson said he was friends with McDonald and that he, McDonald, Bandy and Lehman and others were at a party and while there the conversation about Mitchell’s murder came up and Bandy stated he

agencies. “He was very involved. He never gave up hope that at some point the murderer would be found.”

Who Was Laurel Mitchell?

The Mail-Journal published an article on Oct. 8, 1975, describing Mitchell. The article was written by Mary Lee Willman, a correspondent for North Webster.

Once the tragic news was out the same comment could be heard everywhere. “Oh, no, not Laurel. She is such a nice girl, a good girl. Why would anyone want to hurt her?”

Willman spent some time talking with Mrs. Mitchell and Trudy Smith, a neighbor and close friend of Laurel’s. While it wasn’t easy for Mrs. Mitchell to talk about things, she was eager to share the Laurel she knew with a community that would so quickly and willingly rally behind law enforcement.

“‘Laurel lived by the Bible. She was a girl of high moral character and standards,’ Mrs. Mitchell and Mrs. Smith shared. She was quite upset by the ‘free living’ conduct of some of her classmates and the day before her death had discussed her concern with Mrs. Smith.

“Laurel had a lot of friends, boys as well as girls, but she didn’t date often, preferring instead to go with a group of young people.

“She was active in her church music and youth group and Girl Scouts. She spent one summer as a counselor at the Whispering Pines Camp. She was also this year’s American Legion Auxiliary Girls’ state representative.

“Laurel was working to pay her own way through college. She planned to study business. Besides her job at Epworth Forest she did baby sitting and house cleaning. ...

“Laurel was a very considerate girl. ... She would really get mad if she had something unkind said about another person even if she didn’t like that person much her-

and Lehman committed the crime together.

In 2019 police resubmitted items of Mitchell’s clothing to the ISP Laboratory. In February 2020 a certificate of analysis showed a male DNA profile. It was further determined both profiles came from the same person. The investigation had generated three other potential suspects, but the other three were eliminated as possible contributors of the DNA profile.

ISP Det. Arthur Smith obtained a DNA sample from Bandy Dec. 5, 2022. On Jan. 13, 2023, a forensic scientist with the biology unit of the ISP laboratory provided a certificate of analysis showing Bandy was 13 billion times more likely to be the contributor of the DNA than any other unknown person.

A review of police records showed Bandy was driving a 1971 Olds at that time.

The final information in the court documents indicates police believe Mitchell was removed from the area by Bandy and Lehman using Bandy’s 1971 Oldsmobile. They took her to the Mallard Roost public access and forcibly removed her from the car to the water where she was forcibly and deliberately drowned.

self. She would always go out of her way to give others the benefit of doubt and be forgiving. I sometimes felt like people took advantage of her understanding.”

Willman also spoke with Wendell Bryant, principal at North Webster Junior High, and Donn Kesler, assistant principal at Wawasee High School, where she would have been a senior. Both men recalled she was a good student. “Her attendance record was very good. She was quiet and got

Nathan Scherer

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seat in the primary election in May.

During his three-minute introduction, Scherer highlighted his business experience. He owned a small business in town from 2004 until 2020 when it was sold to Patrick Industries. He now works for Patrick as director of innovation.

A native of Syracuse, Scherer noted his work experience will bring diversity to the council. He said he is currently the only member with experience in manufacturing and has relationships with several manufacturers in town.

After the caucus, Scherer said he was “ready to hit the ground.” While he has not attended any Syracuse Town Council meetings recently, he said he plans to meet

along well with others. She never caused the first bit of trouble as far as discipline was concerned,” said Kesler.

Laurel was involved in the local church youth group and was part of a traveling singing group, “God’s Children.” The group traveled all over the United States singing, made some records and had a couple of albums. She was also involved in dance classes and other community events.

with David Wilkinson, Syracuse town manager, as well as the other members of the Syracuse Town Council and Larry Martindale, who he is replacing, to get caught up on what projects the council is currently working on.

“I’m looking for as much feedback as possible,” he said. Scherer said he’s been interested in politics, but this is the first time he’s sought an elected position. He said he was interested when Tom Hoover stepped down from the council, but he didn’t live in Hoover’s district.

Scherer said being appointed to fulfill the remainder of Martindale’s term is a good opportunity and he is looking forward to the primary.

Meetings announced for Tippecanoe & Chapman Lakes Regional Sewer District

The Tippecanoe & Chapman Lakes Regional Sewer District board will hold its monthly board meetings in the banquet hall of the North Webster Community Center, 301 N. Main St., North Webster.

The meetings will be held at 6:30 p.m. the second Monday of each month.

Meeting dates for 2023 are Feb. 13, March 13, April 10, May 8, June 12, July 10, Aug. 14, Sept. 11,

The hearing will be held at the conservancy district office in the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation’s Levinson-LaBrosse Educational Center, 11566 N. SR 13, Syracuse.

The purpose of the hearing is to

receive public input on the Harkless Drive dike repair and renovation project prior to the board’s 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 turkeycreekddcd.org.

Syracuse will have

Continued from page 1 pany accounting systems as well as building and managing his own enterprises.

“When I see the need, and have the ability, I feel the need to serve,” he said.

Cazier won a caucus when former Clerk-Treasure Paula KehrWicker left the area several years ago. She went on to be elected for a first term, which she is completing now, and is seeking a second term in office.

APC approves plans

Continued from page 1 easement was separately deeded and will be part of Dr. Doug and Helen Strycker’s property, therefore reducing setbacks.

Barrett McManus’ petition for preliminary plat was approved. His petition is for the replat of one lot in Deeds Creek Manor, Warsaw.

His property is located on the west side of Old Orchard Drive, east of Timberline Circle East in Wayne Township.

Edd Allen’s petition was continued for 30 days at attorney Steve Snyder’s request. Allen is seeking an appeal to amend self-imposed restrictive covenants associated to the rezoning request. He wants to rezone the property in question to commercial and as amended through previous cases by allowing modular home sales and display as shown on the submitted site plan.

The property is located on the west side of SR 13, south of CR 400 North in Tippecanoe Township. The case will be heard at the next APC meeting March 1.

“There are 5 acres of farmable land,” Hardy said, “but it’s not profitable.” Mike Long, a new board member, agreed and said, “It’s not economical for farming.”

The United States Department of Agriculture’s Land Evaluation and Site Assessment, a land evaluation method for cropland, was used to determine the property’s suitability for rezoning. Instead of his original request to rezone 24.5 acres, only 4.5 acres will be rezoned, or roughly two 2-acre lots.

The property is located on the west side of CR 700 East, south of CR 1150 South in Jackson Township. The case will go before the county commissioners at 9:15 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28.

James and Sheila Craig’s petition to rezone 3.38 acres from an agricultural district to an agricultural II district was accepted by the board.

The property is located on the south side of Pierceton Road, west of CR 600 East in Washington Township.

Oct. 9, Nov. 13 and Dec. 11.

The public is also invited to attend in person or via Zoom.

The login information is: us02web.zoom.us/j/244811872? pwd=ZklJZkJIRWFCSVhSUDRX MTZJVzUrZz09. The meeting ID is 244 811 872 and the passcode is 041891.

Those wishing to participate by phone can call (312) 626-6799. The meeting ID and passcode are the same as logging in via computer.

Randall Jessop’s petition to rezone ground from an agricultural district to a residential district was also continued. His property is located on the south side of Mock Road, northeast of CR 100 East in Van Buren Township. His case will also be heard March 1.

Thomas Hardy’s petition to rezone his property from an agricultural district to an agricultural II district was given a favorable recommendation by the nine-member board.

A LESA score was high, meaning rezoning was inadvisable; however, the board recommended the request anyway due to various circumstances. All setbacks have been met, and Craig’s grandson wants to build a house on the property. Craig’s property will have nine residential lots ranging from 1 to 5 acres.

Two new board members were introduced: Long and Janet Castle.

The next meeting will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, March 1, in the county courthouse in Warsaw.

Wilma M. Ruch

Former Co-Owner Of Ruch Service

Wilma M. Ruch, 88, Milford, passed away Monday, Feb. 6, 2023, at Memorial Hospital of South Bend.

She was born July 14, 1934, in New Paris, to Manas and Kate Borkholder. On May 16, 1959, she married Robert “Hap” Ruch, who proceeded her in death in 2000.

She was a graduate of New Paris High School.

She was a member of the Eastern Star and a member of the New Salem Church of the Brethren. Wilma donated her time crocheting hats for the area schools and she enjoyed being a part of several card groups. She also enjoyed spending most of her time making beautiful quilts and other numerous crafts.

Together, her and her husband started Ruch Service and worked side-by-side for 23 years. Later, she worked at Veada and The Papers.

She is survived by two children, Douglas (Doreen) Ruch and Myra (Mike) Steele. She enjoyed her four grandchildren, Jenna (AJ) Risedorph, Grant (Alexis) Ruch, Aaron (Beka) Steele and Sarah (Aaron) Schrock. She had seven great-grandchildren that she adored, Quinlynn, Reagan and Adley Risedorph, Avery and Mason Ruch, Sloan Steele and Vivian Schrock. Her eighth great-grandchild is due in July.

She is also survived by brothers, Vern Borkholder and Wilbur Borkholder; and sisters, Vera Graff, Inez Schmucker and Orpha Toth.

She was preceded in death by parents; husband; and siblings, Lloyd Borkholder, Jerry Borkholder and Treva Borkholder.

Friends may call from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, at Mishler Funeral Home, 461 W. 900N, Milford. The funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 10, at the funeral home. Pastor Tim Yoder will officiate. Graveside service will follow at Milford Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be given to the Milford Fire Department.

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

Financial aid professionals from all across Indiana will be volunteering at 37 sites, including locations in Warsaw, Goshen and Plymouth, to help collegebound students and their families open the door to financial aid during College Goal Sunday. The event is set for 2 p.m. Feb.

26. Area locations include:

Warsaw — Ivy Tech Community College, 2545 Silveus Crossing Goshen — Goshen College, 1700 S. Main St. Plymouth — Plymouth High School, No. 1 Big Red Dr.

The free program assists Indiana students in filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The FAFSA form is required for students to be considered for federal and state grants, scholarships, and federal student loans at most colleges, universities and vocational/technical schools nationwide. The FAFSA must be filed by the State of Indiana priority deadline of April 15 to guarantee state aid for those that qualify. One of many reasons College Goal Sunday is

Abbott, Snow invite local students to page at Statehouse

State Reps. Dave Abbott (RRome City) and Craig Snow (R-Warsaw) invite local students to spend a day serving as a House page at the Indiana Statehouse during the 2023 legislative session.

According to Abbott, Hoosier students ages 13 to 18 can sign up to page, and assist lawmakers and staff with daily duties while touring the governor’s office, the Indiana Supreme Court, and House and Senate chambers.

“Students who are interested

in civics and state government would really enjoy participating in the page program,” Abbott said. “As the future leaders of Indiana, it’s important to get students involved and learning about public service at a young age.”

Snow said pages will receive an excused absence from school and can participate in groups, such as Girl Scouts troops.

“Students who participate in the page program learn a lot about their state govern-

so important is because many families perceive the form to be too complicated and time consuming to complete. In less than one afternoon during College Goal Sunday, students and their families can get free help and file the form.

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

Now in its 34th year, College Goal Sunday has helped more than 94,000 Indiana students and families complete the FAFSA properly and on time. College Goal Sunday is a charitable program of the Indiana Student Financial Aid Association. College Goal Sunday doubles the help offered “The event on Feb. 26 will be the second College Goal Sunday event ISFAA is offering this FAFSA filing season,” said Bill Wozniak, co-chair of College Goal Sunday. “We hope all Hoosiers take advantage of College Goal Sunday, file the FAFSA and get one step closer to fulfilling their educational goals.”

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

What students should bring Students should attend College Goal Sunday with their parent(s) or guardian(s) and parent(s) should bring completed 2021 IRS 1040 tax returns, W-2 Forms and other 2021 income and benefits information. Students who worked should also bring their income information. Students 24 years of age or older may attend alone and bring their completed 2021 IRS 1040 tax return, W-2 Form or other 2021 income and benefits information. Students and parent(s) are encouraged to apply for their U.S. Department of Education FSA IDs at studentaid.gov before logging in to the event.

Volunteers will walk through the online form line-by-line and answer families’ individual questions as needed. All sites offer FAFSA online capabilities and many have Spanish interpreters.

Students may also win one of five $1,000 scholarships. Students who attend College Goal Sunday and submit a completed evaluation form will automati-

cally be entered in a drawing for a $1,000 scholarship. The winners will be notified in spring and scholarships will be sent directly to the higher education institution selected by the winning students.

21st Century Scholars are income-eligible students who sign a contract in the seventh or eighth grade promising they will graduate from high school, meet grade point requirements, fulfill a pledge of good citizenship and apply for college financial aid. Upon high school completion, Scholars who have fulfilled the commitment and demonstrate financial need receive state funds to help cover their college tuition and fees for up to eight semesters at eligible Indiana public colleges or an equal dollar amount at eligible Indiana private colleges. To fulfill their pledge scholars must submit a completed FAFSA form on time. College Goal Sunday originated right here in Indiana and is now a national model. Following Indiana’s example, College Goal Sunday events organized by more than 34 states have opened doors to higher education for hundreds of thousands of students all over the country. For more information about College Goal Sunday, visit CollegeGoalSunday.org.

stack up on savings in…

ment,” Snow said. “It’s great when local students come to the Statehouse where they are able to see the legislative process firsthand.”

Snow said Hoosiers can call (800) 382-9841 to sign up their student to participate.

Opportunities to page are available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout session, which must conclude by the end of April. Students are responsible for their lunch and transportation to and from the Statehouse.

Supportive Housing teams include Kosciusko and Marshall County organizations

Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority and Corporation for Supportive Housing have announced the five teams selected to participate in the 2023 Indiana Supportive Housing Institute.

The teams, which include organizations from Kosciusko and Marshall counties, were selected through a competitive process. Each team is comprised of housing developers, service providers and community-based organizations who will develop concept projects for affordable housing with access to supportive services for Hoosiers experiencing homelessness.

“The Institute continues to be an intentional opportunity for organizations to develop detailed, individualized supportive housing plans,” Crouch said. “This year we are focusing on providing supportive housing that will serve individuals experiencing homelessness as identified through the state’s Coordinated Entry System.”

This year marks the 15th year of the Indiana Supportive Housing Institute and the ongoing partnership between IHCDA and CSH to bring more affordable supportive housing across the state for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The selected teams represent locations in five counties from north to south-central, and urban to rural areas, demonstrating that homelessness impacts all communities.

“The Indiana Supportive Housing Institute is an opportunity for IHCDA to promote housing stability for those experiencing homelessness,” said Jacob Sipe, executive director of IHCDA. “It’s important that IHCDA and our partners align affordable housing developments to the current needs in communities. We congratulate the teams selected for the Institute, and look forward to collaborating with them to advance supportive housing in the state.”

Below is a list of local organizations participating in this year’s Institute:

Warsaw/Kosciusko County — Neighborhood Development Associates LLC; Bowen Center; Valenti Real Estate Services Inc.; Housing for Hope Inc.; SRKM Architecture; Housing Authority of Warsaw Plymouth/Marshall County — Bradley Company; Garden Court; Bowen Center; McKinley Development LLC

“CSH is delighted to mark 15 years of collaboration and impact that has connected thousands of individuals and families to quality homes and, finally, stability for those who have cycled through various institutional systems and experienced the trauma of homelessness,” said Lori PhillipsSteele, director, CSH Indiana.

“Only homes end homelessness. Supportive housing pairs quality homes people can afford with the services people need to remain in their homes and achieve their highest quality of life.”

Over the next few months, these teams will work closely with IHCDA and CSH through targeted training and group exercises incorporating CSH’s Quality Supportive Housing Standards. Teams will also receive technical assistance and be presented with predevelopment financing opportunities. The Institute will culminate with teams presenting their final plans to CSH, IHCDA and Institute sponsors. Following graduation from the Institute, each lead organization can apply for funding through IHCDA’s Rental Housing Tax Credit program.

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

Why you need

Medicare doesn’t pay for dental care.1

As good as Medicare is, it was never meant to cover everything.

If you want protection, you need to purchase individual insurance. Early detection can prevent small problems from becoming expensive ones.

The best way to avoid large dental bills is preventive care. Experts recommend checkups twice a year. Previous dental work can wear out. Your odds of having a dental problem only go up as you age.2

Treatment is expensive — especially the services people over 50 often need.

Unexpected bills, like $189 for a filling, or $1,219 for a

Court News

Civil Collections Kosciusko County

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

Miller’s Health Systems Inc. v. Richard Drouillard and Villarrial Drouillard, $33,214.15

1st Source Bank v. Jonathan

P. Fussle and Sky Team Properties LLC v. $1,165,621.86

Superior Court III

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

Speeding — Tanisha R. Atchison, Syracuse, $160.50; Brent J. Bowser, Syracuse, $160.50

Owner allows dog to stray beyond owner’s premises

Christina N. Santos-Burke, North Webster, $25

Failure to change lanes for authorized emergency vehicle — Ricardo Vega, Milford, $160.50

Accidents/Incidents

All charges made by law enforcement are allegations and individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law

Marriage Licenses Kosciusko County

The following couple have applied for a marriage license in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court Ann Torpy: Hernandez-Jacobo

Rene Sanchez Hernandez, 47, Milford, and Teresa Vazquez Jacobo, 47, Milford

Marriage Dissolutions

Kosciusko County

The following couples have filed marriage dissolutions in Kosciusko Superior and Circuit Courts: Bridges — Danielle Bridges, North Webster, and Jacob Bridges, Warsaw. Married: Aug. 24, 2017.

Separated: Jan. 4, 2023. There are

two minor children. Adams — Desiree Adams, Leesburg, and James Adams, Leesburg. Married: Feb. 1, 2017.

Separated: Dec. 3, 2022. There are no minor children. Small — Melissa Small, North Webster, and Zechariah Small, Warsaw. Married: May 21, 2011.

Separated: Jan. 8, 2023. There are three minor children.

Dingess arrested after battering woman in Syracuse

A North Manchester man was arrested after allegedly battering a woman four days after a no-contact order was filed.

Scott Michael Dingess, 37, 1633 E. 900N, North Manchester, is charged with domestic battery and invasion of privacy, both class A misdemeanors; domestic battery with a child under 16 present, a level 6 felony; and domestic battery with a sentence enhancement, a level 5 felony.

On Jan. 21, Syracuse Police responded to a domestic battery at a residence. A woman said she was battered by Dingess. The officer noticed red marks on the woman’s left eye and redness on her left shoulder blade. According to court documents,

the woman said Dingess grabbed her by her hair, dragged her from the front door to the kitchen and knocked over a child. He then hit the woman’s left side of her face and shoulder blade area. The woman told the officer Dingess was still in the residence with the child.

After several attempts to get Dingess to answer the door, the officer forced the residence’s door open. Dingess grabbed the child and ran to a bedroom. He allegedly refused multiple requests to hand the child over, but eventually handed the child to a Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office deputy who responded to the scene. Dingess told officers he had not seen or been around the woman all day.

At a Jan. 17 sentencing hearing in Wabash County for domestic battery, Dingess received a no-contact order prohibiting him from contacting the woman, who was also the victim in the Wabash County case.

He has an initial hearing at 11 a.m. Feb. 16, in Kosciusko Superior Court One.

Cruz found guilty on several charges after bench trial

in a vehicle in front of the laundromat when officers arrived.

Kosciusko County

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

Accidents

7:33 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, East Armstrong Road, east of EMS T26 Lane, Leesburg. Driver: David L. Carnes, 61, EMS T32 Lane, Leesburg. Carnes’ vehicle hit a deer. Damage up to $10,000.

5:57 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, North Syracuse Webster Road, south of North CR 700E, Syracuse. Driver: Timothy A. Lithgow, 70, East Greenhaus Drive, Syracuse. Lithgow got over due to another vehicle and got over too far. His vehicle hit a fence post. Damage up to $10,000.

6:07 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1, East CR 650N, west of North CR 500E, Leesburg. Driver: Robert O. Bloom, 36, East CR 650N, Leesburg. Bloom’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage up to $5,000.

3:21 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 31, South Main Street, north of East South Street, North Webster. Driver: Janet F. Brindle, 77, EMS W25 Lane, North Webster. Brindle’s vehicle hit a snow embankment. Damage up to $5,000.

1:23 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30, East CR 900N and North CR 300E, Milford. Drivers: Susan L. Martin, 64, East Rookstool Road, Syracuse; and Emeterio V. Velasquez, 52, East CR 200N, Warsaw. Martin didn’t see Velasquez’ vehicle and turned into its path. Damage up to $25,000.

12:48 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30, West CR 900N, west of North CR 425W, Milford. Drivers: Jeremiah N. Polk, 42, South Honeybee Court, Warsaw; and Kevin D. Hopkins, 60, South Main Street, Claypool. One of the vehicles was pulling farm equipment that hit the other vehicle. Damage under $750.

Incidents

12:19 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, 11000 block of North Robin Hood Road, Cromwell. Patrik Tanner Hare reported the theft of numerous tools.

Loss of $911.

11:01 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, 400 block of East Armstrong Road, Leesburg. Moyotl Velazquez lost his ID.

5:43 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1, 6900 block of East Divot Lane, Syracuse. James R. Hackleman was the victim of theft.

3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 24, 4700 block of North SR 13, Leesburg. Of-

ficials with Pro Wake Watersports reported a theft. Value of $20,000.

North Webster

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

Accidents

5:15 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, West Crystal Flash Road, west of North Ward Lane, North Webster. Drivers: Holly M. Fountain, 30, East Lantern Road, Warsaw; and Megan S. Padilla, 29, East Bond Street, North Webster. Fountain’s vehicle struck Padilla’s vehicle as it was passing Padilla’s vehicle. Damage up to $10,000.

6:50 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, East CR 500N, east of North CR 750E, North Webster. Driver: Lisa R. Goon, 62, EMS T34A Lane, Leesburg. Goon’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage up to $5,000.

Incidents

3:55 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 5, 600 block North Main Street, North Webster. Representatives for Circle K Gas Station reported criminal mischief to a storage shed.

8:09 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, 100 block of Esterbrook Drive, North Webster. A vehicle was left in the roadway.

2:14 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1, 300 block of West Crystal Flash Road, North Webster. Daniel Adam Joseph Zeringue Jr.’s vehicle was stolen. Value of $9,000.

Syracuse

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

Accidents

5:23 p.. Friday, Jan. 27, East Pickwick Road and South Harkless Drive, Syracuse. Driver: Scotty C. Lancaster, 59, East Sleepy Hollow Parkway, Cromwell. Lancaster had stopped at the intersection and began to drive forward when his vehicle was struck from behind by a black Jeep Wrangler. The driver of the Wrangler left the scene. Damage up to $10,000.

3:25 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, 1 Warrior Path, Syracuse. Drivers: Jaden J. Rocha, 16, Prairie Drive, Syracuse; and Rylee P. Firestone, 17, North Sullivan Road, Leesburg. Rocha was backing her vehicle from a parking spot and struck the Firestone vehicle. Damage up to $5,000.

2:32 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, North Oak Street, north of CR

Cassidy arrested after burglarizing Quonset hut

Damian Lee Cassidy, 24, Osceola, was arrested in connection with a burglary in Syracuse.

Miguel Enrique Delfin Cruz, 28, 109 S. Henry St., Milford, was found guilty on several criminal charges after attacking an officer and pointing a loaded handgun at police during an August 2020 incident.

During a Jan. 17 bench trial, Cruz was found guilty of criminal confinement, a level 2 felony; battery on a public safety official, intimidation with a deadly weapon, carrying a handgun without a license with a sentence enhancement, and two counts of disarming a law enforcement officer, all level 5 felonies; and resisting law enforcement, intimidation, and two counts of pointing a firearm, all level 6 felonies.

In the trial, the state was represented by Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Dan Hampton. Cruz was represented by Defense Attorney Randall Hammond.

Judgment of conviction on the charges was filed by Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed on Jan. 25. Cruz’s sentencing is scheduled for 10 a.m. Feb. 21.

On Aug. 5, 2020, officers responded to a report of a threat to life at Quick Clean Laundry in Warsaw. The reporting person identified Cruz as the person who threatened him. Cruz was seated

Officers approached the vehicle Cruz was in and noticed two boxes of ammunition inside the vehicle. When officers asked Cruz where his firearm was, Cruz said he left it at home.

As Cruz exited his vehicle to gather his clothing and leave the property, officers noticed Cruz had a firearm on his person and confirmed Cruz did not have a license to carry a handgun.

When two of the responding officers attempted to take Cruz into custody, Cruz immediately began to violently fight with the officers. During the struggle, the two officers reported feeling Cruz tugging and pulling on their holstered sidearms.

As the fight persisted. Cruz took possession of his firearm, pointed it at one of the officer’s heads and hit her in the head several times.

Simultaneously, another officer drew his sidearm, preparing to use lethal force. This caused Cruz to point his loaded firearm at the officer who drew his sidearm.

A responding Winona Lake officer used a taser, secured Cruz’s loaded firearm, and took Cruz into custody.

Both officers involved in the physical struggle with Cruz sustained scrapes, cuts and bruises to their arms. The officer Cruz battered with a firearm was taken to a local hospital but was released soon after.

As Cruz was being taken to the Kosciusko County Jail, Cruz said he should have killed the female officer.

Cassidy has been charged with burglary, a level 5 felony; theft, a class A misdemeanor; criminal mischief, a class B misdemeanor; and sentence enhancement theft, a level 6 felony.

On Dec. 7, 2022, Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a burglary in Syracuse. A couple said they noticed a suspicious vehicle parked near a Quonset hut they owned.

A KCSO deputy met with the property owners and noticed the hut had a broken service door

1300N. Driver: Nathan J. Utter, 35, West Emeline Street, Milford. Utters vehicle slid on a patch of ice causing his vehicle to slide halfway onto the railroad tracks. Utter was able to get out of his vehicle before it was struck by an oncoming train that could not be stopped in time. Damage up to $25,000.

10:53 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, 1000 block North Harrison Street, Syracuse. Driver: Carter Ray Wireman Jr., 41, North SR 109, Columbia City. Wireman’s semitractor caught a line going into a residence. The line was pulled off the house, causing siding damage. No damage amount was listed.

5:25 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20, 1 Warrior Path, Syracuse. Driver: Duy Q. Nguyen, 40, Evergreen Drive, Plymouth. The bus Nguyen was driving, registered to Plymouth Community Schools, sideswiped a parked vehicle registered to Carl D. Sewell, EMS W30A1 Lane, North Webster. Damage up to $5,000.

9:32 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20, SR 13, west of Bowser Road, Syracuse.

Drivers: Kara J. DeRolf, 21, Turtle Bay, Syracuse; and Nevaeh L. Becknell, 17, North CR 375E, Syracuse. DeRolf made a right turn onto SR 13 from Bowser Road and failed to see the Becknell vehicle going through the intersection. Becknell complained of chest pain and a passenger complained of head and ear pain. Both refused medical treatment. Damage up to $10,000.

Incident

8:50 a.m. Friday, Jan. 27, 300 block North Huntington Street, Syracuse. A female came to the police department to report being battered and harassed by another female. The suspect reportedly spit on the victim. Information has been turned over to the prosecutor’s office.

Arrests

4:42 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30. Melanie Lynn Green, 50, East Greenhaus Drive, Syracuse, was arrested for operating a vehicle while intoxicated and failure to stop after a property damage accident. Police were called to the 500 block of Railroad Avenue after a mailbox was struck by a vehicle that left the scene. A short time later police observed the vehicle and followed the driver, observing traffic violations. Green was arrested following a traffic stop.

Bond: $750 cash.

burg. Quinn hit a skid loader on the side of the roadway. The skid loader was being operated by Carson. Quinn complained of chest pain but refused treatment at the scene. Damage up to $5,000.

2:35 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30, SR 15 and West CR 300N, Warsaw. Drivers: Saris Y. Carvajal Perez, 33, Amber Drive, Milford; and Adam W. Hovermale, 40, East CR 500S, Wabash. Carvajal Perez’s vehicle hit the back of Hovermale’s. Damage up to $5,000.

Jail Bookings

Kosciusko County

The following people were booked in Kosciusko County Jail:

Feb. 6 — Steven Thomas Holmes, 33, 86 E. South St., Milford, booked on two counts of failure to appear. No bond listed.

Feb. 6 — Paul Brian Nine, 41, 404 W. Huntington St. Apartment B., North Webster, booked for a violation of driving conditions. Bond: $450 cash.

Feb. 5 — Joel Moyotl Velazquez, 49, 489 E. Armstrong Road, Leesburg, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Bond: $700 cash.

Feb. 4 — Daniel Gillespie, 65, 7782 N. 400E, Leesburg, booked for confinement, domestic battery, prohibiting placement of 911 calls. Bond: $5,250.

Feb. 3 — Patrick Allan Manges, 37, 19 E. North St., Milford, booked for possession of meth. No bond.

Feb. 3 — Melissa Joy Pettyjohn, 35, 19090 Fourth St., New Paris, booked for failure to appear — misdemeanor. No bond.

Feb. 2 — Marcie L. Ducheteau, 40, 108 E. Pittsburgh St., No. 3, Syracuse, booked for possession of marijuana/hash oil/hashish with a prior and possession of paraphernalia. Bond: $600 cash.

Feb. 2 — Darren Eric Miller, 26, 9721 E. Pixie Parkway, Cromwell, booked for theft — shoplifting and on a foreign warrant. Bond: $600 cash.

Feb. 2 — Morgan A. Noe, 32, 5583 N. 825E, North Webster, booked for body attachment. Bond: $1,000 cash.

Feb. 1 — Christopher Michael Adams, 45, 107 E. Carroll St., Syracuse, booked for failure to appear. Bond: $5,000 surety.

window, as a cinder block was thrown into it. According to court documents, some tools had been jammed into the door of a tractor in an attempt to pry the door open. The majority of the property in the hut was large farm equipment. Pictures of the suspect’s vehicle were posted by the property owners to social media.

On Dec. 9, 2022, an individual contacted the owners and said the pictured vehicle was co-owned by her and Cassidy, but that Cassidy primarily used it.

Cassidy was interviewed about the incident Dec. 13, 2022. In the interview, Cassidy said he broke into the Quonset hut because he needed gas. He said he stole a gas can with some gas in it and a small hammer.

Cassidy has a prior theft conviction in Kosciusko County from November 2021.

For this case, Cassidy was booked in the Kosciusko County Jail Feb. 1, with a $10,250 surety and cash bond.

Letter to the editor

When are you going to learn?

Dear Editor:

If you are buying your gas in Syracuse and not in surrounding towns when you are there shopping, etc., you’re being made a fool of. Gas today in Syracuse is still $3.45 a gallon. It is $3.07 in North Webster, as it is in Fort Wayne, Columbia City and Warsaw. Goshen is $3.17/gallon. It’s always that way, so next time you are out in a nearby city, fill up your tanks and stop doing business with our gas stations. They are gouging all of us and

We welcome readers’ letters.

2:23 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 26, 700 block North Dolan Drive. Cody Juarez-Sanford, 31, North Dolan Drive, was arrested for domestic battery resulting in moderate bodily injury. Police were called to a residence on Dolan Drive following a domestic dispute. Juarez-Sanford reportedly struck another individual in the mouth. Bond: $6,000.

Warsaw

Officers with the Warsaw Police Department investigated the following accidents:

Accidents

8:46 a.m. Friday, Feb. 3, Shelden Street, near Cherry Street, Warsaw.

Drivers: Lesley K. Quinn, 68, East Smith Street, Warsaw; and Joshua S. Carson, 26, East CR 400N, Lees-

Feb. 1 — Ryan M. Sherman, 48, 82 EMS T34C Lane, Leesburg, booked for domestic battery in the presence of a child. Bond: $6,000 surety and cash.

Jan. 31 — Raymond Pena, 56, 10862 N. Syracuse Webster Road, Syracuse, booked for domestic battery. Bond: $1,000 cash.

Jan. 31 — Michael David Mench, 40, 406 Turkey Creek Drive, Milford, booked on a probation violation. Bond: $15,250 surety and cash. Noble County

The following people were booked in Noble County Jail:

Feb. 5 — Jose A. Cotts, 21, 3757 N. 900W. Lot 101, Cromwell, booked on a warrant. Bond: $1,000 cash.

Feb. 4 — Roberto Belmares Castillo, 45, 3757 N. 900W Lot 96, Cromwell, booked for probation violation. No bond.

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

will continue to do it until you stop buying from them. Casey’s here is $3.45/gallon and the Casey’s in Plymouth is selling for $3.04. Casey’s is buying from the same distributor and charging 41 cents less per gallon in Plymouth than here. Get the message out and stop buying your gas in Syracuse … it will get worse when summer comes, as you all know.

David Brandes Syracuse

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Getting acquainted

I first heard the term “graphic novel” while watching my favorite Wyse Guide reel online. Kaleb Wyse, cook and gardener extraordinaire, said his niece just loved reading graphic novels and had brought several to his house over Christmas vacation.

To see for myself just what was so exciting about this type of book, I paid a visit to Deb Connett, library paraprofessional at Wawasee Middle School.

“We have over 400 graphic novels housed in the 741.5 (art and drawing) section on a tall shelf located close to the checkout desk, yet across the room from the fiction and nonfiction. I have been here nine years and I have always ordered graphic novels. They are not new. They are in high demand,” said Connett.

The three most popular books are “Amulet” by Kazu Kibishi, “Maximum Ride” by James Patterson and “Smile, Guts and Sisters” by Raina Telgemeier. Graphic novels come in series or stand-alones.

“Graphic novels are good for reluctant readers because they contain a lower text count and high graphics. The text is not overwhelming and the themes are engaging,” said Connett.

Many graphic novels pair with actual novels of the same title. For example, James Patterson wrote “Maximum Ride” as a novel and a graphic novel. “There are also hybrid books with some graphics, such as “Middle School” by James Patterson and “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” said Connett. “Diary” is the No. 1 checked-out book many years running at the middle school.

4-H swine lost in early morning fire

Swine being raised for 4-H were lost in a barn fire this morning west of Milford. All total, 13 swine were lost, including 11 piglets and a breeding sow.

The fire was at 2246 W 1350N, Milford, property owned by SMF Properties LLC. Jeff Kitson and his family are residing at the home. The animals are owned by the Kitson family.

Milford Fire Department was notified of the fire around 6 a.m. Nappanee Fire Department was called for a full assist and a tanker was requested from Plain Township Fire Department. The fire broke out in an auxiliary barn/shed. When firefighters arrived flames could be seen coming from the building. Other than the loss of the 4-H animals, no injuries were reported. Milford Fire Chief Virgil Sharp stated the cause is unknown at this time.

North Webster Community Public Library — Escape room games are back

The North Webster Community Public Library is excited to offer escape room games as part of its regularly scheduled programming in 2023. Each month the library will be hosting a different escape room game with themes ranging from last month’s “Stranger Things” escape room to “Dr. Seuss” and more.

Each game is family-friendly and appropriate for all ages, although the puzzle difficulty is generally geared more toward teens and adults. Participants are encouraged to work together to solve puzzles, find clues and unlock the box before time runs out.

February’s escape room game is “Where in the World is Cupid Valentino?” This geography and Valentine’s-themed game will challenge players to find Cupid before he goes missing and ruins Valentine’s Day. The library is hosting this game on Friday, Feb. 17, at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Register in advance for your preferred time slot.

Weekly Library Events

The following activities are set to take place at the library. Attendees do not need a library card to participate.

Adult Events Cookbook Club, 11 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14. This month’s theme is “Presidential Favorites,” and participants will be learning about America’s presidents and some of their favorite dishes through the years. Bring your own favorite rec-

ipe and/or dish to share.

Adult Craft Class, 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14. This month’s craft will be a wooden sign with a vinyl cardinal decoration. Space is limited, so please register in advance. The class is free.

Teen Events

NWCPL will be hosting a special Anti-Valentine’s Day teen event called “Love Sucks” at 3:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 13. They will be watching the first “Twilight” movie and playing Twilight Bingo for prizes. Costumes are encouraged. Snacks and drinks will be provided.

Teen Study Hall, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 16. Teens can stop by to work on homework in a relaxed, social environment.

Youth Events

LEGO builders ages 5-12 are invited to meet at the library at 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 13, for some freestyle LEGO creation. LEGOs are provided — just drop in and join the fun.

Story Times for all ages are back.

Baby and Toddler Time will start this week at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 14. Preschool Story Time will be happening at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 15. Bring your children for a fun time of age-appropriate stories, games, crafts and play.

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

The magic of the graphic novel comes through in its brilliant color and lifelike characters. The novels can be historical fiction, mystery, folk and fairy tale fantasies, science fiction or just classic literature.

A graphic novel is a form of storytelling, not a genre. Graphic novels can tell any story through sequential art and dialog bubbles,

thought balloons, captions, sound effects and narrator boxes.

The pictures and the words work together to tell a story, much like a comic book. What makes these novels interesting is they have exciting and complex plots and character conflicts.

Panels of all shapes and sizes each contain one scene of the story. Gutters — spaces between the panels — for the reader to connect together with his or her imagination, come in various widths.

Bleeds, which are images that run over to the edge of a page, are used for big reveals or cliffhangers. Pages are read from left to right and in a “Z-like” pattern.

“Kids get to know plot, charac-

ters, dialog and how characters develop through graphic novels. They transfer that knowledge to novels. The exciting part about graphic novels is that reluctant students are reading and have a book in their hands, and we can use that to get them to the fiction section,” said Connett.

Manga, comics originating from Japan, are also often requested by students at the middle school. “The Earl and the Fairy” by Ayuko features distinct facial expressions and large eyes. The book reads from right to left, so action, sound effects and word balloons are completely reversed. Often, these are printed in black and white and can range from

fantasy to sports. The five types of Manga — Shonen, Shojo, Seinen, Josei and Kodomomuke — are based on gender and age.

I talked with my granddaughter, Ellie, via Alexa, and she said her second grade class had a few graphic short novels which she loved reading. Now I know what to put on the list of birthday presents for her.

Milford Public Library — Cousins donates train depot sign to library

There was a time, before automobiles and planes, when the fastest mode of transportation from one location to another over a fair distance was accomplished by boarding a passenger train.

As the locomotive industry expanded across the United States, small towns all over the country established designated areas where passengers could gather to board a train going to just about anywhere. Milford was no exception.

The Cincinnati, Wabash and Michigan Railroad gave Milford its first new mode of transportation, laying tracks through the town around 1870. This was known by the name CCC and STL (The Big 4 Railway).

Soon after the tracks were laid, actual train depots began to spring up in all the towns along the way to accommodate passengers boarding and disembarking as they arrived at their destinations. The first train depot in Milford was probably built between 1870 and 1880 and operated well into the early to mid-1900s.

The actual depot building is long gone now, being torn down in the 1960s; however, not all has been lost from that iconic building. Recently, the Milford Public Library

was gifted one of the Milford signs that hung above the wooden structure that was the town’s railroad depot.

Dean Cousins of Milford is a train enthusiast and a collector of model trains. In the mid-1990s, Cousins built a depot-like building at his home to accommodate his collection of trains, and in 1997, he was given the Milford depot sign to hang in his unique building.

A few months ago, Cousins decided to downsize his collection and was looking for a way to preserve the sign, but also make it available for anyone interested in railroad memorabilia and Milford history. He felt the public library was the perfect place to hang the sign, so the community could stop by and see and appreciate its place in history.

It’s a very heavy sign, so it took a few extra hands to install it properly. Library staff would like to thank Cousins, Bruce Berkey Construction, Bob Cline and Scott Mast for their time and expertise in hanging the sign. It is located on the north wall of the adult department along with photographs of the original depot. Feel free to stop by and take a look.

Preschool Winter Story Time

Register your child now for winter preschool story time at 10:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. Wednesdays. It is for children ages 3-6. This is a great opportunity for your children to meet new friends, practice listening skills and explore the public library. Maria Pamer will be your storyteller. The themes are: Warm & Fuzzy, Jack Frost, Counting Cookies, Feel Better Soon, Winter Waltz and Story Time Favorites. Enjoy some special time with your child, make a craft together and share a snack. To register, visit the children’s department or call (574) 658-4312.

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 ages preschool through eighth grade are invited to submit a photo of their creation to milford@milford.lib.in.us. Library staff will choose a winner from the submissions. They have a challenge each month during the school year. LEGO Saturdays are from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. the first Saturday of each month, February through May. The whole family is welcome to build things with the library’s collection of LEGOs.

Lady Warrior swimming finishes 3rd in Elkhart sectional

The Wawasee Lady Warrior swim team finished in 3rd place at the Elkhart sectional Saturday, Feb. 4, at the Elkhart Aquatic Center.

Concord took home the sectional title with 499 points. Northridge finished in 2nd place with 398 points and Wawasee, 3rd, with 308 points.

The 200 medley relay team of Alexis Mishler, Hayden Neer, Kiah Farrington and Julie Mishler finished 2nd, clocking in at 1:45.54.

Neer was 4th in the 200 free, finishing in 2:00.41. Emma Yoder was 7th, finishing in 2:03.56.

Addison Beasley won the sectional championship in the 200 individual medley, finishing in 2:06.87. Emma Young was 12th, finishing in 2:31.23.

Julie Mishler took home the sectional title in the 50 free, finishing in 22.87. Alexis Mishler finished a close 2nd, clocking in at 23.23. Farrington was 9th, finishing in 24.92.

Julie Mishler took home the sectional title in the 100 free, with

a blazing fast time of 50.46. Once again, Alexis Mishler was close behind, finishing with a blistering time of 50.72. Yoder was 6th, finishing in 57.28.

Joscelyn Gibbs finished 10th in the 500 free, clocking in at 5:38.54.

The 200 free relay team of Beasley, Alexis Mishler, Farrington and Julie Mishler, won the sectional championship and set a new Wawasee school record, clocking in with a blazing fast time of 1:34.78.

Brooklynn Roose finished 14th in the 100 back, clocking in at 1:14.54.

Beasley was 2nd in the 100 breast, finishing in 1:05.56, breaking her own school record.

Neer took home 3rd, finishing in 1:06.80. Young was 12th, clocking in at 1:19.38.

The 400 free relay team of Farrington, Yoder, Neer and Beasley finished 3rd, clocking in at 3:43.73.

“Addison Beasley, Alexis Mishler, and Julie Mishler will be competing in two individual and two relay events at the state meet,” said coach Jason Scott.

“Hayden Neer, Kiah Farrington, and Emma Yoder will team with

the previously mentioned trio to compete at state in three relays.

“The 200 free relay team swam under the All-American qualifying time en route to winning the

event and smashing their own school record. The other school record came from Beasley when she smashed her own 100 breaststroke school record.”

Warrior wrestling team finishes 3rd in regional

The Wawasee Warrior boys wrestling team finished in 3rd place at the Penn regional Saturday, Feb. 4, at Penn High School.

Penn won the regional championship with 197.5 points. Mishawaka was the runner-up with 192.5 points. Wawasee was 3rd with 129 points.

Kaleb Salazar, 106, defeated Mishawaka Marian’s Lilly Anderson, Penn’s Travis Sears and Mishawaka’s Xavier Chavez, en route to the regional title.

Cameron Senter, 113, defeated South Bend Riley’s Braxton Shines, Penn’s Ryann Schmidtendorff and Mishawaka’s Joshua Kite to capture the regional championship.

Colten Sutton, 126, defeated South Bend St. Joseph’s Garret Sparke before falling to Penn’s Braden Ashe in the semifinal match and Plymouth’s Coen Kraemer in the 3rd-place match.

Titus Taylor, 132, defeated Penn’s Jake Petras, before falling to Bremen’s Reece Greene in the semifinal match and Tippecanoe Valley’s Galvin Shambaugh in the 3rd-place match.

Logan Stuckman, 138, finished in 3rd place, defeating South Bend Adam’s Delton Swiscz, falling to Mishawaka’s Michael Robles and defeating Plymouth’s Seth Wright. Ethan Rodriguez, 145, finished in 3rd place, defeating Mishawaka’s Christopher Peacock, losing to Penn’s Evan Eutsey and defeating

South Bend Riley’s Trayvon Fleming.

Hunter Miller, 152, also finished in 3rd place, defeating South Bend St. Joseph’s Julian Smith, falling to Penn’s Bryce Denton and defeating South Bend Riley’s Jamaiel Lowe.

Gavin Malone finished as regional runner-up, defeating South Bend Riley’s Isaiah Rivas and

Penn’s Zymarion Hollyfield before falling to Mishawaka’s Isaac Valdez in the championship match. Cameron Zimmerman defeated Mishawaka’s Caiden Williams, before losing to Penn’s Vincent Freeman by majority decision in the semifinal match. Zimmerman went on to defeat South Bend Riley’s Jeirmi Scales by decision to finish in 3rd place.

Donovan Blair, 195, defeated South Bend Riley’s Justin Smith before succumbing to undefeated 36-0 Mishawaka wrestler Christian Chavez, putting up a very tough fight. Blair went on to defeat LaVille’s Paul Dewitt by decision, taking home 3rd place.

Luke Stuckman, 120, also qualified and competed in the regional for Wawasee, but did not place.

Warrior basketball defeats Elkhart Christian but falls to Northridge on Senior Night

The Wawasee boys varsity basketball team defeated Elkhart Christian Academy, 58-30, Tuesday, Feb. 7, at The Hardwood Teepee.

The Warriors outscored ECA, 18-4, in the 1st quarter. Sophomore guard Weston Hoffert drained a three from the left wing to put the Warriors up, 21-4, with 7:12 remaining in the 2nd quarter. Sophomore guard Maddux Everingham then made a three to give the Warriors a 24-5 lead with 5:15 remaining in the 2nd quarter.

Sophomore guard Myles Everingham got in on the action by drilling a pull-up jumper from the top of the key to put the Warriors up 26-7 with 1:12 left in the half. The team took a 26-7 lead into halftime.

Junior forward Collin Ziebarth and senior forward Peyton Felger each opened the 3rd quarter with a steal and layup. Senior forward Collin Roberson had a big rebound basket that put the Warriors up

35-7 with 6:00 remaining in the 3rd quarter. Roberson drove hard to the hoop on the ensuing possession, scoring, drawing the foul and completing the three-point play. Ziebarth then glided to the rim for a layup to put the Warriors up for good, 40-7, with 4:15 left in the 3rd quarter. Elkhart Christian was able to muster 13 points in the 4th quarter, making the score look a little more respectable. This was a great allaround effort by the Warriors. Ziebarth led the Warriors with 14 points. Maddux Everingham added 12 points. Myles Everingham led the team with seven rebounds and six assists.

The Warriors lost to Northridge 74-54, Thursday, Feb. 2, on Senior Night at The Hardwood Teepee.

The Warriors hung tough early and were only down 20-14 at the end of the 1st quarter. Wawasee played tough defense and was clicking on offense, outscoring Northridge 16-12 in the 2nd quarter and was only down two points, 32-30,

at halftime. The Warriors shot 57% on 2-pointers and 37% on 3-pointers in the first half. Northridge was 45% from two and 20% from three in the first half.

Northridge came out hot in the 3rd quarter and was firing on all cylinders. The Raiders outscored the Warriors 28-14 in the 3rd quarter. The Raiders took a 60-44 lead into the final stanza.

Wawasee played Northridge pretty even in the 4th quarter, but could not overcome the 3rd quarter Raider offensive onslaught. Northridge scored 27 points off turnovers, while Wawasee only mustered eight points off turnovers. The Warriors played Northridge tough for three quarters, but could not quite put a complete game together.

Myles Everingham led Wawasee with 15 points and six assists. Roberson scored 12 points and led the Warriors with seven rebounds on Senior Night. Senior forward Peyton Felger had six boards and three assists.

Gymnastics

Feb 2 vs. DeKalb: finished in 2nd place with 81.9 points in three-way meet with DeKalb and Eastside. “Trinity LaJoice and Olivia Ousley were recognized for Wawasee’s senior night.

Olivia Ousley placed 4th all-around and scored a season high on floor with an 8.45,” said coach Molly Liston. Feb. 7 at Angola: finished in 2nd place with 87.55 points. “Olivia Ousley placed 5th on beam and 6th all-around. Morgan Reel

Voirols take home two state fishing awards

Retired Milford School guidance counselor Roger Voirol and his son, Aaron, were recently recognized by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources as part of the 2022 Indiana Record Fish Program. The program recognizes two categories of award winners: “State Record Fish” and “Fish of the Year.”

Both Voirol men earned Fish of the Year honors for their respective catches, The length of the fish is the judging standard for the contest. A winner is chosen for each species category the division recognizes.

Roundup

placed 4th on vault and 5th all-around,” said Liston.

Next meet: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, at Elkhart.

Basketball

Boys Junior Varsity — Feb. 2 lost to Northridge 47-30. Feb. 7 defeated Elkhart Christian 50-13.

Next game: 6:15 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10, at Goshen.

TWFs Land of Lakes exhibit at NWCC through February

The Watershed Foundation’s Land of Lakes exhibit has moved to the North Webster Community Center through Feb. 28.

This amazing exhibit was created in 2021 in partnership with the Smithsonian Institution’s Water|Ways exhibit. It was developed by The Watershed Foundation in cooperation with the Clean Waters Partnership, including Kosciusko County Soil and Water Conservation District, Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams and the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation.

The multi-panel exhibit explores our communities’ rich water history and heritage and includes linkages to camps, tour boats, hotels and dancing pavil-

ions — many of which we can still enjoy today.

Visitors will also learn about how our lakes were formed, the importance of geography in where our waters flow (watersheds), as well as the diverse ecosystems that provide food and habitat for fish and wildlife. It showcases the value of our rich water resources and what youth and adults can do to make a difference.

“We hope that by viewing the Water|Ways exhibit and our local water story, individuals are empowered to take action for our water through small, impactful choices in their own lives,” said Lyn Crighton, executive director of The Watershed Foundation. This fascinating and beautiful

display will continue to be shared with our community for years to come. “This exhibit continues to be an important tool to educate the community on the value of our great local resource — our lakes and streams,” added Crighton.

Sponsors of the original project include Lake City Bank, NiSource Charitable Foundation, NIPSCO, Kosciusko County Community Foundation, Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams and ProWake Watersports.

If you would like information about hosting this exhibit, please contact Caitlin Yoder at The Watershed Foundation at caitlin@ watershedfoundation.org or (574) 834-3242.

Syracuse Public Library — All ages invited to decorate cookies at SPL

All ages can decorate Valentine’s Day cookies from 1-5 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14, in the Syracuse Public Library’s downstairs meeting room. The library will provide the cookies and everything you need to decorate. Treat yourself or decorate one for your valentine while supplies last.

Valentines For Waters Residents

Children still have time to complete valentines for residents at the Waters of Syracuse, formerly Miller’s Merry Manor. Come into the library and decorate a precut heart before turning it in at the children’s desk by Monday, Feb. 13. Staff members will then deliver the hearts to residents on Tuesday, Feb. 14.

Adult Book Club Meets

For Discussions

The adult book club will meet

at 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, in the library’s downstairs meeting room and at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21, via Zoom to discuss “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt.

The book follows Tova Sullivan as she begins working the night shift at the Sowell Bay Aquarium, where she meets the curmudgeonly Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus. Copies of the book are available at the Syracuse Public Library or digitally through the Libby app.

For information or to receive a Zoom invitation, contact Becky at bbrower@syracuse.lib.in.us.

Young Adult Programming

Are you a fan of cryptids? Don’t miss the young adult game nights sampling of “Horrified,” a board game featuring classic monsters like Bigfoot, Mothman, the

Meghan Bontrager named to dean’s list

Meghan Bontrager of Milford is among the more than 1,300 students honored on the Lewis University dean’s list for the 2022 fall semester.

Bontrager is studying sports management at

Lewis University. To be eligible for this honor, students must have completed a minimum of 12 credit hours during the semester with a grade point average of at least 3.5 and with no “D” or “F” grades.

Roger earned his award for the 9-inch warmouth sunfish he caught on Clear Lake in Steuben County. Aaron earned recognition for the 14-inch yellow perch he reeled in from the St. Joseph River in Elkhart County.

Aaron now works as the hatchery biologist at Fawn River Hatchery in Orland, a facility operated by Indiana DNR.

Since his retirement from Milford School in 2021 after 27 years, Roger now works at Fawn River as the maintenance director. He was recognized in 2022 by the DNR as being instrumental in the advanced walleye fingerling program.

“He brings a positive attitude, enthusiasm and a strong work ethic to the hatchery,” noted the DNR on its Facebook page. “Roger plays a crucial role in property maintenance and leads all off-site minnow trapping required to feed the growing walleye. We could not have produced the fish we did without him.” Both father and son have relocated from the Milford area to Clear Lake near the town of Fremont.

Aaron noted that through his fishing charter company, Voirol Charters, three of his clients. Greg Enyart, Sally Pagorek and Bruce Buteyn, also received “Fish of the Year” awards from the DNR. Each winner also received a certificate and a colorful jacket patch. For more information about the program, including details on how you can participate in the 2023 contest, visit in.gov/ dnr/fish-and-wildlife/fishing/ indiana-record-fish-program, where you also can find a complete list of winners and the state records.

chupacabra, the Jersey devil, the Ozark howler and the Badlands Banshee.

The gaming session runs from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 15, in the Rosalyn Jones Room, which houses the library’s young adult space. Contact young adult services assistant Amber Weber at aweber@ syracuse.lib.in.us for more details.

Young adults can also join Color & Chill from 4-5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, in the Rosalyn Jones Room. It is the perfect way to unwind.

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It happened in Syracuse ... 50 years ago

Bauer brothers pull missile crew duty at Warren AFB

10 YEARS AGO, FEB. 06, 2013

Kellie Laughlin received a watch from Administrator Bryan Zehr for 25 years of service to Miller’s Merry Manor, Syracuse. Kellie starting working at

the facility on Feb. 1, 1988, as a housekeeper and within a month was promoted to environmental supervisor. She has continued in the same position for the last 25 years. Kellie stated “I just really

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INDEX

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

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

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

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

FINANCIAL ..................................H010-H030 INSTRUCTION .............................K010-K020

ANNOUNCEMENTS

enjoy my job,especially making residents and families happy.”

The winter weather is bringing out the wildlife in droves. This came from Andy Walter, “On a hot tip from my friend Bob McDonald, who lives on Sunrise Drive, I was able to snap a few photos of an adolescent bald eagle on Saturday, Jan. 22. It had just fed on a coot or mud hen just in front of Greg and Cheryl Smith on Ogden Point. It was one of four young bald eagles that I saw that day, also an adult flew right over my truck, but I didn’t have composure for a good picture.” 20 YEARS AGO, FEB. 2, 2003

For years the Lantz family has been an integral part of the Syracuse Elementary School family. Bill Lantz has been teaching at Syracuse for the last 20 years. His father, Jim Lantz, has been volunteering at the school for the last 10 years and Bill’s son, Chris, a senior at Wawasee High School, has been a cadet teacher for the last three years.

Since the summer of 1985 Da-

General

vid and Linda Wright of Goshen have owned the popular Pickwick Theatre. The couple have remodeled the historical facility several times adding surround sound and improving the seating, screen and projection. Movies such as “Honey, I Shrunk The Kids,” “Home Alone,” “Star Wars: The Phantom Menace,” “Kangaroo Jack,” “Santa Claus II” “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” “Die Another Day,” “Sweet Home Alabama,” and others have all appeared on the big screen in Syracuse, some showing the same week the film was announced to be released.

30 YEARS AGO, FEB. 10, 1993

A Supreme Court decision that no longer allows prayer to be a part of graduation ceremonies has members of the Wawasee Community School Corporation Board of Trustees looking into which direction the traditional services should go. Discussion on prayer at graduation dealt with possible alternatives to include this tradition in the ceremonies without violating a person’s con-

stitutional rights. It was noted in the discussion that the Wawasee High School senior class officers have voted unanimously that they wish to continue the practice of prayer at the graduation ceremonies.

The employees of Gropp’s Famous Fish of Stroh are taking to heart the saying “while the cat is away the mice will play.” Herschel Wells, owner, left for Florida last Thursday and the employees are just clowning around while he’s gone.

40 YEARS AGO, FEB. 9, 1983

Saint Andrews United Methodist Church, SR 13 north, Syracuse, has many social activities which are held at the church, or activities backed by the church which are held elsewhere in the community. Activities are geared to various groups, such as singles, youth and new members. Special functions are often held after church services to encourage fellowship on a personal level.

“This type of contest helps develop character by requiring the

students to perform in front of an audience,” said David Blackwell, Wawasee High School band director and organizer for the annual Indiana State School Music Association Solo and Ensemble Contest for District 4 schools that was held at Wawasee on Saturday, Feb. 5. Wawasee band and orchestra students received a total of 16 firsts and 10 second ratings at the contest. Individual students received 61 gold and 18 silver.

50 YEARS AGO FEB. 7, 1973

Two Syracuse brothers, captain Albert J. Bauer III and second lieutenant Bradford P. Bauer, both Warren air base officers in Wyoming, drew crew duty together last New Year’s eve in a missile capsule. Different from the routine of the regular combat crew duty was that this was the first that brothers in Strategic Air Command pulled missile crew alert together as they entered the launch control center beneath the Nebraska prairie, beginning a 24hour tour in the capsule.

It happened in North Webster ... 20 years ago Adventureland Family Amusement Park goes up in flames

10 YEARS AGO, FEB. 6, 2013

Congratulations to North Webster native Monica Wilson Lyon. She received the Young Adult Professional of the Year Award Jan. 23 from the Warsaw Chamber of Commerce. She works for United Way of Kosciusko County and is the daughter of Mike and Judy Wilson and a 2002 graduate of Wawasee High School and Purdue University.

Bart’s Watersports, North Webster, made a donation to the North Webster Food Pantry. Employees of the business decided to give their Christmas fund to the organization, while owner Bart Culver matched their gift. The check was presented Monday.

North Webster Boy Scout Troop 726 heads up the trail during the Klondike Derby, Saturday, pulling the sled they built. The Scouts were on their way to the next village, which included a fire starting challenge and marshmallow skinning. Despite the cold temperatures and snow, all the Scouts were quick to say they were having a good time at Camp Ella J. Logan, Dewart Lake. Scouts, totaling 150 came

from both Kosciusko and Whitley counties to participate. The Syracuse and Milford Boy Scouts were also present during the derby.

20 YEARS AGO, FEB. 5, 2003

Huge piles of debris from the now defunct Adventureland Family Amusement Park in North Webster went up in flames Sunday. Members of the North Webster Fire Department were on site to ignite and control the fire which took the better part of the day to burn. The controlled burn was arranged by Carey Excavation, Warsaw, and co-owner of the Adventureland property, Dan Thystrup.

Amanda Jeffrey of North Webster recently participated in an opera at Ball State University. The performance, sponsored by the Ball State School of Music, consisted of two, one-act operas by Giacomo Puccini.

Lakeland Kiwanis Club of North Webster met Jan. 27, with president-elect Helen Hoy conducting the meeting. The pumpkin collection was toward the purchase of books for teens at Riley Hospital for Children. Roger Karns, boys

It happened in Milford … 40 years ago

and girls swimming and diving coach at Wawasee High School, presented the program.

30 YEARS AGO, FEB. 10, 1993

An emotional Alice Rinker announced Gary and Barb Eastland as North Webster’s Citizens of the Year last evening, Tuesday, at the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce dinner held at the American Legion.

Julie Gene Du Bois of Sunrise Photography, North Webster, has earned recertification as a professional photographer (CPP) through Professional Photographers of America.

40 YEARS AGO, FEB. 9, 1983

Several citizens and businessmen from North Webster will be meeting tonight, Wednesday at 7 p.m., at the Classic Restaurant to make a definite decision on the formation of a Chamber of Commerce for North Webster. If the decision is made to form a chamber, a slate of prospective officers may be presented at the meeting. The public is invited to attend.

North Webster Mermaid Festival Chairman Charles Parker and secretary, Susanne Parker, have

announced that it is time to start making preparations for the 1983 Mermaid Festival. There will be a public meeting at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 22, 1983, in Camelot Hall.

50 YEARS AGO, FEB. 7, 1973

The following persons were named to the distinguished honor roll at North Webster Junior High School for the second grading period: Caryl Coy, Todd Haines, both eighth grade; Janet Rhodes, seventh grade; and Darsee Staley and Mark Lantz, both sixth grade.

Bob Day served as presiding officer at the Kiwanis meeting due to the absence of Jerry Badskey. Hazen Sparks, North Webster, and Theo Thomas, Syracuse, sponsored by John Weeks and Chris Koher, were inducted by Dan Watson.

Mrs. Helen Kline of Epworth Forest entertained last weekend for her sister and husband, Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Southoff of Dunkirk, their granddaughter, Melinda Williams, and Mrs. Marjorie Warner, who has returned briefly from her winter home in Florida.

Joe and Linda Ray open Porterhouse Restaurant

10 YEARS AGO, FEB. 6, 2013

Doll’s Decorating worked on a unique project last month for a big Indiana University fan. Becky Fox of Syracuse requested the talented decorators reupholster an old chair in one of her favorite colors: IU red. Doll’s owner Coral Amspaugh-Topolski said Fox is an IU graduate who is very involved with the school’s alumni association. Doll’s employees used an IU blanket Fox brought in to match the right shade of red and then included the university foundation’s logo.

Boy Scouts from Kosciusko and Whitley counties turned out in force, braving the cold and snow, to participate in the annual Klondike Derby Saturday. The event is patterned after Alaska’s Iditarod dog sled race. Among the 150 Scouts who made up 16 sled

teams was Milford’s Troop 747.

20 YEARS AGO, FEB. 5, 2003

Jan Cremers has been named director of technology development for CTB Inc., Milford, according to Victor A. Mancinelli, president and chief executive officer. Cremers is currently president of Fancom B.V., a subsidiary of CTB Inc., and will assume his new duties soon after a new managing director is named for Fancom.

Milford Utilities superintendent Dallas Winchester reported that the water main repair on Emeline Street will be completed when the weather temperatures rise. Since the repair work is so close to the railroad tracks, Winchester noted that he and the Norfolk Southern Railroad inspectors have to align their schedules to make the repair.

30 YEARS AGO, FEB. 3, 1993

The house on CR 1250N in Milford is owned by Theo Beer and was built by his father, Simon Beer, in 1913. Almost all of the components of the house were ordered from the Sears catalog.

Tiger Scouts have come to Milford. Once a month a group of approximately seven boys, in kindergarten through first-grade, along with a mentor meet for group activities. Several of the activities have included a visit to the nursing home and learning about first aid and emergencies.

Milford Motors is announcing the addition of Greg Swanson and Dave Golf to its sales staff. Swanson is a Warsaw High School graduate. He and his wife, Teresa (Pifer), and daughters, Tiffany and Ashton, reside in Atwood. Egolf, a lifelong Syracuse resident, has experience in helping customers with their automotive needs.

40 YEARS AGO, FEB. 9, 1983

Milford took one step closer to having railroad crossing lights in town Tuesday when an agreement with Conrail concerning the lights at the Fourth and Catherine Street crossings was signed by the town board. Steve Miller, board president, stated this is the second step in the process necessary for the installation. The first of two sections of the

new doctor’s office in Milford was moved into place Monday morning, Feb. 7, by Mark Slabaugh and Stan Ellinger of Village Green Homes, Inc., Etna Green. The second section was set later in the afternoon.

Joe and Linda Ray, Milford, have opened the Porterhouse Restaurant on Main Street in Milford. The restaurant, located in the old Hickory Lounge building and named after Mrs. Ray’s parents, will officially open Thursday morning, Feb. 10, at 5:30 a.m. 50 YEARS AGO, FEB. 7, 1973 Triplet Holsteins, two heifers and a bull, were born at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Maurice Beer farm south of Milford on the old state road. The mother, “Beauty,” was bred seven times previous with all being single births. Triplet births among cattle is rare with Dr. A. G. Schafer reporting there is about one set born in the area per year. Births of triplets to cows is about 1 in 10,000.

Raymond E. Dimick of Milford recently completed the two-week factory service school program at the Johnson complex in Waukegan, Ill. The school is the largest of its kind in the world.

Pat Davis has moved from her home on Elm Street in Milford to Ohio. She is located just across the river from Huntington, W. Va., where her mother lives.

Community Corner

Casey looking to leave lasting legacy

Born in Louisville, Ky., Michael Casey lived in Alabama until third grade. “We lived on a dirt road and our closest neighbors were a mile away. We moved to Elkhart and I attended Concord Community Schools. I was from the south and had a little bit of an accent. It was interesting segueing to the north. I had never seen snow before,” said Casey.

“I was a three-sport athlete at Concord. I played football, basketball and threw the shot and disk in track.

“My freshman and sophomore year, I didn’t really pay much attention to academics. Then I had an epiphany that I really needed to get my head together. I worked really hard my junior and senior years, got a scholarship to Taylor University, played football and met my wife, Barb.

social studies for eight years. I decided to attend IPFW for my master’s degree and get into administration.

“From 2015-2017, I was an assistant principal at Edgewood Middle School in Warsaw. When the opportunity arose to come back to Milford School as an assistant principal in 2017, I jumped at it. After filling in as assistant principal at Wawasee Middle School for the last half of 2022, I was encouraged enough to take this opportunity. This is my first full year as principal. I love it.

“Telling your story is very important, especially in the day of social media. Telling our story about what we’re accomplishing at school and are trying to do for our young kids and staff is important. I feel I’m called to this work, not because it was something I wanted to do, but because I was led to help others.

PROFILE

“During my high school senior year, my assistant principal and principal had us read ‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens’ by Sean Covey. I did a presentation on the book and they told me I should be a teacher. ‘I don’t think so,’ I laughed.

“At Taylor, I was undecided. I took an Education in America course and found I like being in front of kids as a positive role model.

“My first year at Taylor I had to log 12 hours a week in the library where I did all my work and found my niche and success. I created some really great habits. I gained a better understanding of who I am and what I am called to do. Taylor is a faith-based institution.

“I graduated from Taylor in 2007. My first teaching job was at Wawasee High School. I taught

“I was able to find a niche and success because my teachers cared about me and believed in me. I’m grateful I am where I am today because of that belief and there is hope. My wife and I have been married 14 years and have a 6-year-old daughter, Bailey. I really love spending time with my family.

“I lost my dad to congestive heart failure when I was in college. I started to write poetry and made a pledge I read to the staff when I was hired as principal:

“‘I will have a positive attitude. I will expect success and come prepared to learn. I will accept responsibility for my choices and actions. I will respect myself and others. We will strive to abide by our motto of ‘Doing the Right Thing and Treating People Right!’

“We’re not promised tomorrow. What can I

do today to make a positive impact on the world around me? That’s what drives me. It’s bigger than I am.

“A lot of people talk about a true legacy. What will you be remembered by? Not just being a good guy. I want to be remembered as a trail-

blazer who impacts the lives of others.

“Life is hard, but you have to build up calluses and toughness. I learned from my dad: One day at a time. Attitude is everything. These are two of the mantras I’ve tried to live by the best I can,” said Casey.

SPEC wraps up its walkathon

Tuesday, Jan. 31 was the last day of our walkathon. We had wonderful participation. We had a lot of new people walking this year.

The sponsorship money has just started coming in. The money is combined with the miles walked so we won’t be able to announce the winners until all the money is in.

The deadline is Saturday, Feb. 18. Keep watching The Mail-Journal for the winners.

Last week was also really busy in the center. We are getting more card players and mahjong players.

Our bridge players are back from Florida. If you want to join in or just learn to play, please come and sit in. We play euchre every day from 9-11:30 a.m. Mahjong is from 9-11 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Our euchre tournament is Thursday, Feb. 16. It’s a $2 buy-in, and we have cash prizes.

Speaking of coming in to visit, the gentleman in the picture is a dear friend of Richard and Jean Cowan. He is back in Indiana on a visit. His name is Jerry Marquell and when Jean introduced him to me, he stood to shake my hand and he just kept going up and up. This gentleman is 6 feet, 7 inches, and as you can see, I am 4 foot, 8 inches. He has been here all week, and we have had so much fun. He is originally from the Tippecanoe area but has been on the West Coast for years.

Our hot lunch program also has been getting more people coming in. We had a lot of help from Phil Payne. He tried our lunches and decided to bring in some friends. They get a hot lunch and have a nice place to sit around the table for as long as they want and solve the problems of the world. I love it.

Bridge Results

North Webster Bridge Group

The North Webster Bridge Group met Thursday, Feb. 2, at the Senior Primelife Enrichment Center in the North Webster Community Center. Winners were Jean Cowan, first, and Mike Wyrick, second.

Mobile

Meals drivers

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

Syracuse Drivers

Feb. 13-17

MONDAY — M. Smith

TUESDAY — C. Manning

WEDNESDAY — D. & K. Matz

THURSDAY — B. Martz

FRIDAY — P. Smith Milford Drivers

Feb. 13-17

MONDAY — M. Webb

TUESDAY — A. & C. Haab

WEDNESDAY — J. & C. Wagoner

THURSDAY — J. Redman

FRIDAY — R. & P. Haab North Webster Drivers Feb. 13-17

MONDAY — Need driver.

TUESDAY — J. & K. Caskey

menus. If you want to try it out, call Merita at (574) 834-1193 to order.

WEDNESDAY — A. Renner

THURSDAY — B. Kennedy

Be sure to check out the Senior Life newspaper for the February

the center, call me at (574) 8341600, ext. 224. That LEGAL NOTICE The Kosciusko County Parks & Recreation Board meeting on April 20th, 2023 at 1:00 PM has been rescheduled to April 13th, 2023 at 1:00 PM in the Old Courtroom, 3rd Floor of the Courthouse. Rhonda Helser, Auditor Kosciusko County hspaxlp

about does it for this week. Stay warm and healthy. FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, KOSCIUSKO COUNTY, INDIANA CASH & INVESTMENTS COMBINED STATEMENT - 2022 Local Beginning Cash Ending Cash Fund & Inv. Balances & Inv. Balances Number Local Fund Name January 1, 2022 Receipts Disbursements December 31, 2022 Governmental Activities 01 Levy Excess $0.00 $277.00 $0.00 $277.00 1 Emergency Medical Services 46,322.86 12,380.19 7,051.00 51,652.05 2 Fire Fighting 113,303.28 56,857.14 57,578.00 112,582.42 4 Park And Recreation 36,472.79 3,185.20 6,800.00 32,857.99 5 Rainy Day 22,013.96 0.00 7,320.00 14,693.96 6 Township 63,430.27 46,175.96 20,438.26 89,167.97 7 Township Assistance 62,282.76 4,339.81 7,423.62 59,198.95 Total All Funds $343,825.92 $123,215.30 $106,610.88 $360,430.34 PLEASE NOTE: A complete abstract that contains the statement of receipts, showing their source; and a statement of expenditures, showing the combined gross payment; according to classification of expense to each person is available for inspection in the County Auditor’s

Office.

FRIDAY — P. Perry

I, Trillia Gearhart, Trustee of Franklin Township, Kosciusko County, Indiana, do solemnly affirm under the penalty of perjury that the preceding report contains the information required by Indiana Code 36-6-4-13, and is, true and correct; that the amounts with which I am charged in this report are all of the amounts received by me; and that the various items of expenditures credited have been fully paid in the sums stated; that such payments were made without express or implied agreement that any portion thereof shall be retained by or repaid to me or to any other person. A complete abstract that contains the statements required under Indiana Code 36-6-4-13(a)(5) and (a)(6) is available for inspection in the county auditor’s office.

This report was received, accepted, and approved by the Township Board at its annual meeting, this 31st day of January, 2023. Franklin Township Board James Eads Joe Secrist

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Around The Lakes

The faithful in 2023

and fourth Sabbath of each month.

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 fourth article of the series.

The Church Of God Ministries International

The Church of God Ministries International is located at 304 W. Main St., Syracuse. The church conducts is weekly services at 1 p.m. Saturday, the church’s Sabbath, and hosts a free potluck meal the second

Steve Councell is the church’s pastor and answered the above questions on behalf of the congregation. He may be reached at (574) 584-2001 or secouncell@comcast.net.

For more information on the Syracuse church and the international denomination, visit thecogmi.org/lc/syracuse-in.

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

Maintaining the faith once delivered. We live in times that Christ described as a perverse and crooked generation. We are subjected daily to an increase of immorality in our nation. It’s imperative for true believers to contend for the faith and to seek truth.

Jude 1:3-4: “Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of our

God into lewdness and deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ.”

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

We are planning to increase our efforts in support of the national work, specifically that of our weekly broadcast of News Nuggets and Insights that comes out each Friday morning on gucw.org. This broadcast is designed to help folks understand what’s happening in the world today in light of prophecy that affects our lives daily.

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

We are preparing to increase our efforts in helping those who are in need. With the decline in the economy, there will be a greater need in helping others.

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

Draw near to God each day, seek Him earnestly. Be in His word daily, growing in grace and knowledge. Trust His word and believe His promises.

Matthew 6:33-34: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”

Calvary UMC to host free community dinner

Calvary United Methodist Church, 801 S. Huntington St., Syracuse, will host a free community dinner from 5:30-7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10. The meals will be available for dine-in or drivethru pickup.

The dinner is sponsored by the church’s women’s group, Hannah Circle, as an outreach ministry to the hungry in the Syracuse area community.

The dinners are held the second Friday of each month. The next dinner will be March 10.

For more information, call the church at (574) 457-3778 or visit facebook.com/syracusecalvary.umc.

FUNERAL CHAPELS

THE MOBILE Meals program provides hot, nutritious meals to older adults five days a week. The program is possible thanks to volunteer drivers who deliver the meals. Pictured above is Joy Parcell picking up food for Mobile Meals at the North Webster Community Center.

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PRINCESS PARTIES will be returning to the Syracuse Parks Department. Mirabel’s Fiesta will be from 10-11:30 a.m. or 1-2:30 p.m. Saturday, April 22, at the Syracuse Community Center. There is a fee. Sign up at the community center, 1013 Long Drive, Syracuse, or at syracuseparksfiesta.eventbrite.com. Be sure not to wait, there is limited space and the princess parties fill up fast.

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IS ONE of your resolutions to reduce stress this year? Yoga is offered at North Webster Community Center. Yoga class is intended for all ages and levels. The instructor, Norma, takes great care to ensure each student’s safety and satisfaction. The hourlong class is at 9 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The class costs $5 but the first class is always free. They are held in the Culver Family Wellness Center’s north wing.

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THE WAWASEE High School Color Guard

Spin Club will be holding dance and spin clinics for any sixth- to 12th-grade student who is interested in color guard. Join them to learn how to dance and spin a flag. The clinics will take place from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11 and 18 and March 4, 11 and 25, in the Wawasee Middle School band/choir room.

No experience is necessary. The cost is $35 per person for all five sessions, which includes a T-shirt. Questions should be directed to Sara Pickler at spickler@wawasee.k12.in.us.

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IF YOU missed the open house hosted by Urban Oak Apartments (the old Syracuse Elementary School) you can take a virtual tour. Visit the Experience Syracuse Facebook page and look for the video. It’s amazing how different those classrooms look now.

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HARVEST COFFEE in Milford will be hosting Drawing Club at 4 p.m. each Wednesday in February. The instructor will lead participants through some basic drawing techniques. There is no cost to participate and pre-registration is not required. All you need to do is show up! Harvest Coffee is located at 207 N. Higbee St., Milford. For more information, call (574) 658-3066.

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JUST A reminder that ChautauquaWawasee will be hosting the Ball State University Singers from 6-7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10, in the Wawasee High School Auditorium. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $20 for VIP seating. Tickets can be purchased through a link on the Chautauqua-Wawasee Facebook page or chautauquawawasee.org.

The group includes 2022 Wawasee High School graduate Devin Van Lue, pictured above. Join him and his fellow singers “for a powerful celebration of faith, hope, laughter and love with a sparkling performance from the Ball State University Singers … showcasing music that is encouraging, uplifting and inspiring!”

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AMERICAN LEGION Post 253 in North Webster is hosting Sportsmen’s Night Saturday, March 4. Table sponsorships are available. Tickets can be purchased at the Legion’s canteen. Call (574) 834-4297 for details.

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ATTENTION ARTISTS who teach! Made on Main in Milford is seeking to expand its workshop lineup and is looking for workshop instructors to join their team. The ideal instructor candidates are kind, talented in their art field and patient, have the ability to independently teach their art at least once a month for two to three hours using their own tools and supplies and, above all, love having fun in a creative and welcoming space.

Made on Main strives to make art accessible and fun. If you are interested in more information, text Angie Deak at (574) 221-0384. —o—

THE DIXIE is getting some much-needed repairs. The famous sternwheeler is on its way to a shop to have a new shaft made and installed. It’s a huge undertaking, but the community can’t wait until the boat is back together and ready for the summer cruises. Built in 1929, The Dixie is Indiana’s oldest sternwheel excursion boat. For more updates, visit their Facebook page. —o—

THE SYRACUSE-WAWASEE Chamber of Commerce is looking for organizations that want to host its monthly networking events. Professional networking meetings are held from 5:30-6:30 p.m. the third Thursday of the month. For more information, call the chamber at (574) 457-5637. —o—

UPWARD BASKETBALL and cheerleading is in full swing at North Webster United Methodist Church. You can help support this popular youth program and get your belly filled at the same time. Search for the “Upward Sports League at North Webster United Methodist Church” Facebook page and print out the Hacienda coupons you find there. Then, go to Hacienda Mexican Restaurant in Warsaw anytime Monday, Feb. 13. The Upward program will receive a portion of the sales. You must physically have the coupon to earn the credit. If you don’t have time to dine in, any gift cards or to-go orders purchased that day also qualify for the promotion.

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ARE YOU looking to add a furry roommate or cuddle buddy to your household? New Hope Pet Rescue is holding a February special. Adopt a cat for only $14 throughout the month. All the cats at New Hope are up to date on their vaccinations, microchipped and spayed or neutered.

The rescue is open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays or make an appointment by calling (574) 528-0283. Visit nhprindiana.org to see all the felines looking for a “furever” home.

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REMEMBER THAT the North Webster United Methodist Church, 7822 E. Epworth Forest Road, is holding an all-you-can-eat pancake supper from 4:30-7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 15, to benefit the Wawasee High School band. Come hungry and give generously! —o—

REGISTRATION IS underway for flag football and spring soccer at Lakeland Youth Center. Registration deadline for both is Sunday, March 26. The first game for both flag football and spring soccer will be Saturday, April 15.

Fees are $30 for PeeWee kids and $50 for kids in kindergarten through middle school. There will be a discount for additional siblings who want to play.

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DID YOU know Harvest Coffee in Milford makes meals for Milford and Syracuse Mobile Meals? Kosciusko Community Senior Services would love more volunteers to help deliver these meals. The Mobile Meals program exists to help seniors in Kosciusko County remain independent and living in their homes. The program provides a nutritional, diet-appropriate hot noon meal each weekday. For more information, call (574) 267-2012.

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THE SYRACUSE Public Library has precut hearts available for children to decorate for residents of Waters of Syracuse, formerly Miller’s Merry Manor. Children can complete their hearts at the library or finish them at home. They need to be returned to the library by Monday, Feb. 13, so they can be distributed on Valentine’s Day the following day. —o—

VALENTINE’S DAY is Tuesday, Feb. 14. Check out this Valentine’s Day tree at Senior Primelife Enrichment Center, located in the North Webster Community Center.

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