The Mail-Journal - March 1, 2023

Milford nearly finished with 50-year-old wastewater ponds

On Feb. 20, heavy machine operators from Beer and Slabaugh Inc. began the process of filling in three unused retaining ponds on the Milford Wastewater Treatment Facility property at 1001 W. 1250N.

The work is expected to be completed by the end of March — weather permitting — and will conclude a lengthy clean-up process begun in 2022 and costing the town approximately $300,000.

From 1971 to 2004, the town of Milford relied on a three-cell lagoon system to treat its wastewater. Prior to 1971, wastewater simply ran into Turkey Creek, according to Wastewater Superintendent Mark Brubaker.

The lagoon system was comprised of a large pond and two smaller “polishing” ponds, which helped settle out heavier biosolids. The water then moved through a chlorine contact tank before returning to Turkey Creek.

One problem with the system was the buildup of ammonia nitrogen, especially in the winter. In 1993, 1.1 million gallons of sludge was removed and land applied in an attempt to alleviate the problem. But by the early 2000s, the lagoon was unable to comply with increasingly strict Indiana Department of Environmental Management standards.

“They couldn’t meet IDEM’s permit levels,” said Brubaker, who added many area communities still utilizing lagoons also face problems with ammonia compliance. Milford chose to build a new mechanical wastewater plant. In a 2004 noncompliance notification form to IDEM, then superintendent Dallas Winchester informed the state, “The construction of a new activated sludge-type facility is approximately 95% complete. … Hopefully, with no further delays the new facility should be online February 2005.”

After completion of the new facility, the ponds sat unused on 5 acres until they again caught IDEM’s attention around 2020. They would have to be cleaned of all remaining biosolids and then filled in.

Wealing Brothers started dewatering the ponds in May 2022. In June, bulldozers began to remove the large ponds’ clay lining and push the biosolids to pumps, which filled dump trucks and hauled the material off-site.

As of Aug. 11, 780,000 gallons had been removed. On Aug. 15, the two smaller ponds were excavated and a total of 146 tons of biosol-

ids, clay liner and other materials were removed.

Wealing Brothers’ final bill was $280,069, which combined with Beer and Slabaugh’s quote of $19,500, brings the total cost so far to just under $300,000.

On Feb. 10, 2023, Brubaker received notification from IDEM’s Office of Land Quality the ponds had been “properly closed.” Beer and Slabaugh began the process of filling in the ponds shortly thereafter; however, work has been hampered by heavy rains.

Water, Street and Park Superintendent Steven Marquart and Brubaker are looking forward to the ad-

ditional space soon to be available to the town.

“It feels good to get it cleaned up. Once it’s leveled off, it will give us more room for future expansion, possibly a new utility building in the distant future where we can house all of our equipment in one building.”

Marquart also noted the nutrient rich soil around the ponds made the area difficult to maintain, as grass, weeds and trees grew easily.

Brubaker looks forward to making the wastewater plant’s sludge available for agricultural land application, which will minimize the cost of sludge disposal in the future.

Township building maintains rich history

Once it was the hub of community activities in North Webster.

More recently, the soon-to-be former Tippecanoe Township building on South Morton found itself in competition with the North Webster Community Center.

It was a battle it wasn’t going to win, and quite frankly one which Township Trustee Chris Francis had no real interest in competing. Soon, it will take on its next chapter as the township prepares to sell it to a local church.

According to Sue Ann Mitchell, the former Tippecanoe Township assessor, the building was constructed in 1951 for use as a manufacturing facility for Blue Bell, a Columbia

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Kosciusko County Commissioners have OK’d applying for a grant to deal with the opioid epidemic locally.

At its Tuesday, Feb. 28, meeting, commissioners approved a request brought by Kosciusko County Council and County Opioid Committee member Sue Ann Mitchell to apply for an Opioid Settlement Match Grant from the state.

It’s meant to accompany funds the county received as part of Indiana’s participation in a multi-state settlement reached with Johnson & Johnson, Cardinal Health, McKesson and AmerisourceBergen for their contribution to the national opioid epidemic.

If the county receives the grant, it will have $405,000 to spend on three projects the committee decided upon: $60,000 for counseling at the Kosciusko County Jail; $45,000 for counseling for participants in the Kosciusko County Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative; and $300,000 for Fellowship Missions to have a building for counseling.

The committee initially decided last week it wanted to expand Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory’s C.A.R.E.S. program countywide. That program currently allows first responders in Warsaw to meet with those experiencing mental health or addiction problems.

Mitchell explained at the commissioners meeting why the program expansion isn’t included in the grant request.

“(The) C.A.R.E.S. program is what we really, really wanted to do,” she said. “But after we looked at the cost and the impact it would have on the county, the county is not geared up to do that kind of service. It would be totally outside our bailiwick and in this short frame in order to qualify for this grant, we could not pull the pieces together to make it happen.”

She noted the committee’s work isn’t done yet, with the county only receiving $266,561.25 so far of the $1.3 million-plus it’s receiving

through the settlement. That money will come in over a 17-year period.

“The hope would be that we could pull together something, so we can provide that kind of service Warsaw is providing under their C.A.R.E.S. program to other areas to reach out to our whole community,” said Mitchell.

In other business, the commissioners:

• Approved a resolution regarding a cybersecurity personnel policy. Through it, county employees must take “initial security awareness training” within a month of their hiring or start date and complete “security awareness refresher training” annually. The county’s information technology department will send fake phishing messages to employees to test them, and there will be punishment for not following the rules.

• Approved a contract with Quality Correctional Care for $472,508.20 annually to provide medical and mental health services at KCJ. Kosciusko County Sheriff Jim Smith noted the county has used the company “for many years now. The biggest change, and the one I’m most excited about inside this contract is, the ability we’re going to have to increase our mental health (services),” added Smith. “We’re going to go from 16 hours a month to 96 hours a minimum a month of mental health for the general population of the inmates.”

• Approved a request brought by Kosciusko County Prosecutor Brad Voelz for the county to do support work for a special prosecutor handling child support cases in the area when there is a conflict of interest.

The state opted not to renew its contract with the county to do those services, so Kosciusko will do the work until the state picks someone else to do it.

• Approved two rezoning requests previously approved by the Kosciusko County Area Plan Commission at its Feb. 1 meeting. They were on behalf of Tom Hardy to rezone 4 acres along CR 700E in the southeast corner of the county from

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at 1001 W. 1250N

Township building

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City-based clothing manufacturer.

It was later purchased by Dekko Foundation, which also used it for product manufacturing.

In 1987, Tippecanoe Township was gifted the vacant structure after then trustee Dick Mitchell, Sue Ann’s husband, identified it as an ideal location for a community center. Both elected Mitchells worked together to renovate the building from a factory to a place where groups could hold meetings, host parties, facilitate other gatherings of people and house the assessor’s office and the trustee’s office. The building’s new interior would be centered around a large room, which could be divided into two separate spaces.

Mitchell said the newly renovated building also housed the volunteer EMS department, including sleeping quarters for the EMTs. She noted the first event held was the 50th wedding anniversary party for Bill and Lunetta Metcalf. Additionally, the North Webster Community Library was housed in the building for a time prior to moving into the NWCC.

She added the North Webster Lions Club moved into the building, where it has remained ever since.

The Tippecanoe Township Food Pantry was gifted an adjacent building, which previously had served as a machine shop owned by Joe Harris. The smaller building was eventually demolished and converted into additional parking, with the

food pantry moving into the township building.

“It was a big deal for the community,” recalled Mitchell. “The whole building was a labor of love.”

Mitchell said she attended a chamber of commerce meeting there recently and was a bit tearyeyed as she left. She has many fond memories of being in the building during the last 40-plus years, many of which included her husband, who died in 2012.

“I understand the need to move,” said Mitchell. “It’s a wise and rational decision by the township.”

Chris Francis assumed the role of trustee in 2018. One of the main tenets of his administration was to

make decisions that were fiscally sound for the township. Early in his first term, the idea of selling the building was put on the table.

As time progressed, it became even clearer the building that had served the township and the community so faithfully for nearly three decades needed to be moved on to the next stage of its existence.

“The situation was twofold,” said Francis. “When the building was purchased, it was the community center. The building that now is the community center was the elementary school. It was a ‘one-stop’ shop, the heart of the community.”

With the NWCC taking on that role, the usage for rentals and par-

ties at the township building has steadily decreased, which Francis acknowledges and understands. While the building still had the Lions Club and food pantry as permanent tenants, the cost to maintain the building was far outpacing the income being received.

The township did not have a buyer pursuing the property, but Francis knew the right opportunity would make itself available when the timing was right. North Webster Church of God contacted Francis as it sought to expand its footprint in the community. Francis said the opportunity and timing was ideal for

both and a deal was quickly struck.

Francis said the township had budgeted $50,000 for the building this year. With the sale, a large portion of that money will be used toward maintenance at the cemeteries the township is tasked with maintaining.

“Overall, this is beneficial to the community,” Francis said. “This building has been vacant a majority of the time and the taxpayers have been paying for that vacancy. We’re always trying to look out for the taxpayers the best we can.”

The township trustee’s office has been moved to the NWCC. The food

pantry will remain at the soon-tobe-former township building. The Lions Club also will stay in the building for the time being, although it plans to move across the street to its own building on the Mermaid Festival grounds once renovations to that space are completed.

The church was reticent to reveal its plans for the space until the closing paperwork is signed, which is anticipated to happen next week. Church officials promised further information will be made available once the paperwork is officially signed.

New employees and promotions at Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office

Kosciusko County Sheriff Jim Smith welcomed nine new additions to the team and promotions.

Dan Buell, Milford, has joined the department as a merit deputy. He will be assigned to the patrol division. Buell has eight years of law enforcement experience and is a graduate of the 210th Indiana Law Enforcement academy in 2017. Buell is a field training officer and standardized field sobriety test instructor.

Brette Stamper, Warsaw, a merit deputy, will be assigned to the patrol division. She has six years law enforcement experience graduating in the 211th Indiana Law Enforcement Academy in 2013. She is a 2012 graduate of Wawasee High School and a 2016 graduate of Ball State University with a bachelors of arts degree in criminal justice and criminology. Her husband Quinten Stamper is a firefighter with the Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory.

Amanda See, Leesburg will serve as the director of the Kosciusko County Central Dispatch. See has 12 years of dispatching experience. Prior to her time as a dispatcher, she worked at Kosciusko Community Hospital for 19 years. See and her husband, Jeff, are the parents of two daughters, Kate and Avery Heather McGuire, Warsaw will be assigned to the dispatch center as dispatcher. McGuire was a dispatcher from 1995-1999 before leaving and becoming the owner of Betty’s Cake and Candy Shop in Warsaw. Her husband is Jeff and they have four children and five grandchildren.

Samantha “Sammy” McGuigan, Walkerton, will be assigned to the dispatch center as dispatcher. She has two years

dispatching experience. McGuigan and husband, Zach, have four children, Anthony 15, Bradley 13, Aubrey 11, Lily 7.

Jakayla Troyer, Milford will be assigned to central dispatch as a dispatcher. She and her husband have four children.

Kiersten Abbott, North Manchester, will serve as a cook and food preparation specialist for the jail’s food service program. She is a 2022 graduate of North Manchester High School. She loves spending time with her rescue dog Blue, three cats and loves to cook. She also works part-time at Peabody’s Nursing Home in North Manchester.

Jerrad Jones, Warsaw, will serve as the director of Work Release program. Jones has been with the Sheriff’s Office for 16 years with the majority of time spent in corrections. He worked his way up to sergeant holding many certifications such as ILEA general instructor, less lethal instructor, SERT team leader. Jones has been in the work release since 2021 serving as assistant director.

Josh Gonzalez, Warsaw, will

Commissioners

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agricultural to agricultural II and James Craig to rezone 3.38 acres west of Pierceton on CR 600E south of Pierceton Road from agricultural to agricultural II.

• Approved purchasing three new dryers for KCJ at a quoted price of $22,582.80 from Super Laundry of Indianapolis.

• Awarded a bid by Phend & Brown for $1,469,013.33 to do roadwork on Old Road 30 East from CR 450E to SR 13 and Pierceton Road from Winona Lake to Pierceton uti-

lizing the county’s Indiana Department of Transportation Community Crossings grant funds.

• Approved an agreement to do right of way work related to construction on Bridge 30 on Beer Road in Milford.

• Showed support for adding 182 homes along East Webster Lake to the Tippecanoe-Chapman Lakes Regional Sewer District.

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

serve assistant director of Work Release. He is a 2000 graduate of Warsaw Community High School. Gonzalez

began working

for the Sheriff’s Office in 2014 all in Work Release. Gonzalez and his wife, Mary, have a daughter and two sons.

Obituaries

Jack Darr

Korean War Veteran

Jack Darr, 89, Syracuse, passed away peacefully with his family by his side Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023.

Jack was born Feb. 19, 1933, in Goshen, to the late Earl J. Darr and Opal (Geyer) Darr.

As a lifelong resident, Jack attended Syracuse High School. He furthered his education at Indiana University in Bloomington, where he was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity. Jack was also a veteran of the Korean War, member of the American Legion and attended Grace Lutheran Church in Syracuse. Jack owned and operated Elkhart Bedding Company until he retired in 2000.

Jack married the love of his life, Carol Lee John, on July 1, 1961. She preceded him in death on June 29, 2022.

Jack loved Lake Wawasee and enjoyed spending time at this condominium on Sanibel Island, Fla. He was a pillar of the community and was loved by all who knew him.

He is survived by his two children, Christopher (Sandra) Darr, Granger, and Jennifer Darr-Blissitt, Noblesville. He has nine grandchildren, Nathaniel Darr (Alicia), Spencer Darr, Luke Darr, Anna Darr, Joseph Darr, Sophia Darr, Chris Darr, Evan Blissitt and Lauren Blissitt; and three great-grandchildren, Ayra Darr, Mackenzie Darr and Isiah Darr. He is also survived by his sister, Donna Workman; and his beloved cat, Pia Lee.

Preceding him in death is his sister, Susan Mock; and son in law, Eric Blissitt.

A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Food Pantry at Grace Lutheran Church, 203 E. Main St., Syracuse, IN 46567. Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse, was in charge of arrangements.

Anna Glover

Anna Glover, 96, Syracuse, died Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023, at The Waters of Syracuse. Arrangements are currently pending at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse.

Holcomb pushes back against train derailment waste coming to Indiana

Gov. Eric Holcomb is pushing back on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s move to transport hazardous materials from the East Palestine train derailment to an Indiana facility.

“I continue to object to the EPA Administrator’s decision, from Washington, D.C., to move hazardous waste from the East Palestine train derailment to Indiana. Further, there has been a lack of communication with me and other Indiana officials about this decision,” he said in a statement released Tuesday.

Holcomb learned third-hand Monday that materials will be transported to a landfill in Roachdale, Indiana.

Mary Ann Ziegler

Mary Ann Ziegler, 92, North Webster, died Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023, at her residence. Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of North Webster.

K-CODE hears from newly implemented recovery program

The Kosciusko Coalition On Drug Education heard from its new partner, Project.ME, at its Tuesday, Feb. 28, meeting.

Project.ME Executive Director

Aisha Diss attended the meeting to hear more about what actions Kosciusko County officials are taking in regard to supporting those in recovery or in need of recovery.

In January, Project.ME was brought on by the Indiana Recovery Network for the Regional Recovery Hub project in Allen, Kosciusko and Whitley counties. Project.ME is a peer support and harm reduction organization that originated in Allen County.

“We’re a no barrier peer support organization, meaning that all someone would have to do in order to get support from us is just reach out. We don’t bill insurance, we don’t charge, literally all they have to do is reach out and ask for support,” Diss said. “We support those that are 14 years old and older who have substance abuse disorder, use drugs or are in recovery.”

“We also provide peer recovery coaching, we do that through certified addiction peer recovery coaches; people who have the experience not only with substances but lived experience in recovery.”

As Project.ME is just beginning to get established in Kosciusko County, peer recovery coaching may take place like Telehealth, or however is necessary based on the individual.

Diss expressed her excitement to continue serving those in need of support through the expansion into Kosciusko County.

Other notable discussion points during the meeting were:

Exodus Ministries is working to create a facility for pregnant women struggling with drug use to offer them housing, resources for recovery and a connection to prenatal care.

Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory expects to receive 350 doses of Narcan to distribute to other public service departments; they also plan to use an opioid matching grant to fund a new position for a staff member that is to focus heavily on substance use.

Eight women have been accepted into the J-CAP program.

Vape ticket cases are now being sent to Teen Court.

There were 95 dispatch calls for Warsaw Schools this month, which the Warsaw Police Department hopes to see a decline in.

There will be a pancake breakfast from 7-10 a.m. Thursday, March 9, at the Winona Lake Senior Center.

Beware of phone scammers pretending to be state police

The Indiana State Police has received several concerns from citizens reporting an apparent phone scam.

ISP receives numerous reports of phone scams each year, but this particular scam involves using the ISP General Headquarters phone number.

The scammer is using a Caller ID showing “Indiana State Police” with “(317) 232-8248.” The scammer then identifies themselves as an ISP trooper and tells them they have drug charges pending in Texas. The scammer then threatens the citizen with arrest if a payment is not made. ISP would never call and ask for or demand any sort of payment for any reason whatsoever. ISP would like to remind all citizens that phone scammers are persuasive, convincing, and technically savvy. Scammers will often play on emotions and fears in order to get personal information and money.

The easiest way to protect yourself from being scammed over the phone is to either ignore unsolicited calls from unknown callers or just hang up when something doesn’t seem right. If you feel as though you have been a victim of a phone scam, immediately report the incident to your local law enforcement agency and alert your bank as soon as possible so the payment can be stopped.

As a reminder, never give out personal information such as date of birth, social security number, or bank/credit card numbers. Many of these scammers want you to make a hasty decision and may pressure you to get your money or personal

“I directed my environmental director to reach out to the agency. The materials should go to the nearest facilities, not moved from the far eastern side of Ohio to the far western side of Indiana. I have made a request to speak to the administrator to discuss this matter. I want to know exactly what precautions will be taken in the transport and disposition of the materials.”

The Associated Press reported that the EPA announced two new hazardous waste sites will receive some of the shipments from East Palestine — an incinerator in Grafton, Ohio, and the landfill in Roachdale.

IDEM weighs in

In a statement to the Indiana Capital Chronicle, representatives with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management said they did not have regulatory authority “to prevent hazardous waste disposal facilities from accepting materials for which they are permitted to han-

dle and dispose.”

The Roachdale landfill is operated by Heritage Environmental Services and is federally certified to handle the management of hazardous and non-hazardous solid waste. The “geologically isolated” site has about 14 million cubic yards of permitted landfill capacity, according to Heritage’s website.

“The decision to contract with Heritage Environmental Services for disposition of hazardous waste was made by Norfolk Southern, despite the fact that the Roachdale, Indiana facility is located nearly 400 miles from the train derailment site in East Palestine, Ohio,” said Barry Sneed, an IDEM spokesperson.

He added that IDEM is communicating with the EPA and local authorities in Putnam County “to determine exactly what mate-

rial is being brought to Indiana, when, and in what quantities.”

The EPA did not respond to messages seeking comment

Tuesday.

Background

The EPA now is getting close to having enough certified facilities to take all of the waste from the site of the Feb. 3 derailment in East Palestine, said Debra Shore, a regional administrator with the agency. Some liquid and solid waste had already been taken to sites in Michigan and Texas, according to the Associated Press.

About 1.8 million gallons of liquid waste have been collected from the derailment site, according to the Ohio EPA. The incident happened more than three weeks ago when 38 rail cars derailed. No one was injured but officials opted to re-

North Webster Community Public Library —

lease and burn toxic vinyl chloride from five tanker cars, sending black smoke billowing into the sky.

“I am just as shocked as Gov. Holcomb and other Hoosiers to learn that the EPA is transporting hazardous materials nearly 400 miles from the East Palestine train derailment to a facility in Indiana. However, I’m not surprised to see the continued lack of communication from the administration to the American people and our state leaders about this issue,” said Ninth District Republican Congresswoman Erin Houchin. She opposes bringing the materials through or around her district “or to our neighboring Indiana communities, particularly when we have not been given any information about safety protocols taken to protect the public.”

Teen Mindfulness Club starting up

Technology is ever present in our world today. Everything from filing taxes and doing schoolwork to watching movies and reading e-books is online.

And while being digitally connected has many advantages, too much screen time can also have some serious consequences. Studies show that digital overload can lead to such side effects as irritability, difficulty sleeping, anxiety and high blood pressure.

To help combat the negative side effects of digital overload, the North Webster Community Public Library is excited to offer a new Teen Mindfulness Club. During Mindfulness Club, attendees will learn about tools to help them live with intention and practice skills to help avoid digital overload. Mindfulness Club will meet for the first time at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 15. No registration required.

information. Be aware that transactions made by prepaid card or wire transfer are nearly impossible to recover once sent.

It is important for everyone to talk to their family about these phone scams and to have a plan in place should a scammer call you or someone you love. Being aware of potential scams is a great first step in protecting yourself from falling victim to one.

Weekly Library Events

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

Adult Events

Exercise classes are still happening. Get Fit While You Sit chair exercise class, 4 p.m. Thursday, March 9, followed by Let’s Move dance class at 5 p.m. Fiber Arts Friday, 10 a.m. Fri-

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

Teen Events

Teen study hall, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Thursday, March 9. Teens can stop by to work on homework in a relaxed, social environment.

Teens are invited to attend the Creative’s Corner from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Friday, March 10. Bring your

current creative project, whether that be crocheting, drawing, writing or anything in between. Use your imagination and create something extraordinary.

Youth Events

Story times for all ages are continuing. Baby and toddler time, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 7. Preschool story time, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 8. Bring your children for

a fun time of age-appropriate stories, games, crafts and play. LEGO builders ages 5-12 are invited to meet at the library at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 11, for some freestyle LEGO creation. LEGOs are provided — just drop in and join the fun. For more information about any library events, call (574) 8347122, visit nwcpl.org or click into the Facebook page.

Accidents/Incidents

Kosciusko County

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

4:25 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22, East CR 1000N, east of North SR 13, Syracuse. Drivers: Cheryl R. Shook, 58, East Quiet Harbor Drive, Syracuse; and Nicholas P. Welty, 18, East CR 365S, LaGrange. Shook’s vehicle passed Welty’s on the left side as Welty was attempting to turn left into a parking lot. Damage up to $10,000.

10:20 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 21, East CR 800N and North CR 500E, North Webster. Driver: Trystan S. Wirebaugh, 34, North Second Trail, North Webster. Wirebaugh’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage up to $10,000.

2:56 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21, North SR 13 and EMS B7 Lane, North Webster. Driver: Malaki J. Fields, 26, East CR 100S, Portland. Fields’ vehicle hit a deer. Damage up to $5,000.

9:05 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 19, East CR 650N, east of EMS T40 Lane, Leesburg. Driver: Robert L. Holderbaum, 80, EMS D21B Lane, Syracuse. Holderbaum’s vehicle left the roadway and hit a pole. Damage up to $2,500.

6:22 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, East CR 450N, east of North CR 375E, Leesburg. Drivers: Hilda Marquez, 46, East CR 200N, Warsaw; and Dylan M. Lopez, 17, Ivy Lane, Dyer. Marquez’s vehicle failed to yield the right of way and hit Lopez’s vehicle. Damage up to $5,000.

Huffenberger faces several charges after alleged garage burglary

Milford

Milford

Police Department made the following arrests.

Arrests

11:39 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17, N SR 15 and CR 900N, Milford. Michael A. Lee, 40, 1646 Victoria Road, Elkhart, was arrested following a traffic stop. Lee was stopped for speeding and was arrested for possession of mari-

juana with a prior.

11:02 p.m. 400 block East Armstrong Road, Leesburg.

Juan V. Tepo, 22, 4330 N Old 15 Lot 215, Warsaw, was arrested for driving with a suspended license.

North Webster Officers with the North Webster Police Department investigated the following accident, incident and made the following arrest:

Accidents

2:28 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 26, East CR 500N, east of North CR 700E, North Webster.

Driver: Marcus M. House, 19, North Lakeview Drive, Warsaw. House’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage up to $2,500.

9:42 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, North SR 13 and East Washington Street, North Webster. Driv-

ers: Scott J. Stinson, 45, East CR 600S, Claypool; and Janelle

S. Turner, 48, Wood Street, Winona Lake. Stinson’s vehicle hit the back of Turner’s. Damage up to $1,000.

Incident

9:34 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 15, 300 block South Main Street, North Webster. Police were

Two arrested on several drug-related charges

Two people were recently arrested on several drugrelated charges. Lindsay Clare Krieg, 26, 428 W. Tanya Ave., North Webster, is charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 3 felony; and possession of methamphetamine, a level 5 felony. She is also charged with possession of methamphetamine, a level 5 felony; possession of a narcotic drug and maintaining a common nuisance, both level 6 felonies; and possession of marijuana, a class B misdemeanor, in a second case.

Joshua Terry Smith, 36, 1832 Cambridge Drive, Warsaw, is charged with three counts of dealing methamphetamine, all level 2 felonies; two counts of possession of methamphetamine, both level 4 felonies; and three counts of possession of methamphetamine, all level 3 felonies.

Sometime in November 2022, the NET43 Drug Task Force purchased 7.26 grams of meth from Krieg.

At the time of the November incident, Krieg was on bond for a methamphetamine possession case.

On Feb. 17, NET43, Indiana State Police and Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at a home in North Webster. Forced entry was made after no one answered the door. According to court documents, the purpose of the search warrant was to look for any items associated with illegal drugs and drug sales. Upon searching the residence, officers found Krieg and Smith.

While executing the search warrant, officers found 21.7 grams of marijuana, 19.4 grams of meth, drug paraphernalia, multiple mobile phones, several ledgers that appeared to be connected to drug dealing, and a fentanyl pill.

Smith has two prior convictions for dealing cocaine or a narcotic drug. He also has three pending criminal cases for theft, narcotic drug possession, and domestic battery with moderate bodily injury.

Both Smith and Krieg have been arrested on these cases.

Yakym sets county office hours for March

U.S.

called to Neighborhood Fresh Market after a customer left the store without paying for items. The customer had removed lesser priced meat price tags on top of more expensive meat packages with an accomplice returning two packages back to the meat case. The two customers fails to place all items on the checkout counter, leaving the store without paying for those items and paying a lesser price for two packages of meat. Value: $34.76.

Syracuse

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

Accident

3:49 p.m. Friday, Feb. 24, North Huntington Street, north of North Indiana Avenue, Syracuse. Drivers: Luke A. Miller, 18, CR 40, Goshen; and Tabetha M. Luther, 36, Kemar Street, Wakarusa. Miller’s vehicle rear-ended Luther’s. Miller was give a verbal warning for driving with a learner’s permit and expired insurance. Damage up to $5,000.

Incident

7:55 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21, 400 block of North Lake Street, Syracuse. An individual discharged a firearm into the ceiling of their residence.

Warsaw

Officers with the Warsaw Police Department investigated the following accident:

Accident

9:12 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, Nye Street, near Greenhill Drive, Warsaw. Drivers: Anita M. Lasley, 60, Half Street, Upland; and Charlotte M. Schuh, 58, South West Street, Milford. Lasley’s vehicle turned too sharp and hit Schuh’s vehicle head-on. Damage up to $5,000.

Jail Bookings

Kosciusko County

The following people were booked in Kosciusko County Jail:

Feb. 24 — Randall Joseph Murphy, 63, 9502 E. Doswell Blvd., Cromwell, booked for resisting law enforcement using a vehicle. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

Feb. 24 — Lindsay Clare Krieg, 26, 428 W. Tanya Ave., North Webster, manufacturing/dealing meth. Bond: $20,250 surety and cash.

David Allen Huffenberger, 52, 9455 S. Sleepy Hollow Parkway, Cromwell, is facing one count of burglary, a Level 4 felony; and theft, a Level 6 felony.

According to a probable cause affidavit, the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office was contacted Nov. 8, 2022, in reference to a theft that occurred at EMS B9 Lane, Pierceton.

A KCSO deputy spoke with the alleged victim. He said that a phone app alerted him to a white unknown vehicle parked in his driveway.

The man went to his garage just as the vehicle was leaving. He obtained a partial license plate number from it. Officers couldn’t find the vehicle, but discovered from security footage that two people in a white sedan with a loud muffler took items from the man’s garage.

The man determined that items stolen included a 20-inch chain saw, leaf blower, tool box with various tools, and a popup playpen. They were valued at $1,950.

He contacted North Webster Police regarding the vehicle being at Neighborhood Fresh in North Webster Nov. 9, 2022. A Warsaw police officer identified the 2004 Chevrolet vehicle as being Huffenberger’s. Huffenberger told police that he was the only person using the vehicle.

On Nov. 10, a KCSO deputy learned Huffenberger was on probation for auto theft. A probation officer told the deputy

Huffenberger had cancelled his last visit and was ignoring the officer.

The deputy agreed to do a visit with the probation officer to Huffenberger’s residence. On Nov. 16, the two along with a detective visited Huffenberger’s home.

While checking the home, deputies noticed a leaf blower in the same brand as the missing one in a small closet by a bathroom. Officers also found a small opening that led to a crawl space. It contained tools matching the ones missing from the victim’s residence, including items bearing the victim’s initials. Huffenberger admitted to officers that he stole the items.

He was convicted of conversion in August 2020 in Kosciusko County. Huffenberger was booked into the Kosciusko County Jail Feb. 15 on a $15,250 surety and cash bond.

Zarse to serve 15 years in prison for three controlled drug buys

A Leesburg man will serve 15 years in prison after three controlled drug buys with local law enforcement.

Austin Nathaniel Zarse, 27, 576 W. CR 675N, Leesburg, was charged with two counts of dealing methamphetamine, both level 2 felonies; unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon, a level 4 felony; and resisting law enforcement, a level 6 felony. Four additional criminal charges were all dismissed as part of a plea agreement. Zarse was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court Thursday, Feb. 23.

For each count of dealing methamphetamine, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Zarse to 17 1/2 years in the Indiana Department of Correction. Each dealing count will be served concurrently or at the same time. Zarse also received a two-year DOC sentence for unlawful possession of a firearm and six months in DOC for resisting law enforcement. The firearm

Murphy arrested for resisting law enforcement

Randall Joseph Murphy, 63, 9205 E. Doswell Blvd., Cromwell, is charged with resisting law enforcement, a level 6 felony; and resisting law enforcement, a class A misdemeanor.

On Oct. 16, 2022, a Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office deputy was on patrol when he noticed a vehicle in the Cromwell area with a license plate that expired

in 2014. The deputy attempted to pull the vehicle over, but its driver continued for about half a mile before coming to a stop.

According to court documents, once the vehicle stopped, its driver, later identified as Murphy, left and entered a residence. He ignored the deputy’s verbal commands to stop. A short time later, responding officers heard a loud noise from the opposite side of the residence. Officers saw a temporary outdoor shelter near the home that had collapsed, as if someone had jumped onto it from the residence’s second story.

Murphy fled from officers at that time.

Murphy was booked in the Kosciusko County Jail Feb. 24, with a $5,250 surety and cash bond.

and resisting charges will be served consecutively to the dealing charges.

The last five years of Zarse’s 20-year sentence was suspend ed on probation. He was recommended for DOC’s Recovery While Incarcerated program and

has 283 days of jail time credit.

A firearm seized in the case will be disposed of by the NET43 Drug Task Force. Zarse must also pay $2,625 in restitution to NET43 for drug buy money. Between March and May 2022, NET43 purchased a total of 176 grams of meth from Zarse. Officers also recovered a 9mm handgun. On May 16, 2022, when law enforcement officers approached Zarse, he fled from officers and drove into a field, where he got stuck in a ditch.

Court News

Evictions

Elkhart County

The following eviction has been filed in Elkhart County Courts:

Principled Property Management v. Federico Ramirez, Syracuse, $1,744.83

Superior Court III

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

Speeding — Kimberly A. Kelley, North Webster, $160.50

Unlawful possession of tobacco — Josephine Pegan, North Webster, $160

Marriage Licenses

Kosciusko County

The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court Ann Torpy: Oglesbee-Strasser

John E. Oglesbee, 59, Syracuse, and Susan E. Strasser, 68, Syracuse Randall-Peterson

Philip M. Randall, 65, Pierce-

ton, and Susan K. Peterson, 66, Syracuse Minnix-Fields

David J. Fields, 24, Ligonier, and Ashley N. Minnix, 25, Milford Taylor-Hunter

Kevin Taylor, 52, Syracuse, and Tiffany N. Hunter, 32, Warsaw

Marriage Dissolutions

Kosciusko County

The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in the Kosciusko Superior and Circuit Courts: Collins — Carla Collins, Syracuse, and Christopher Collins, Syracuse. Married: March 22, 2008. Separated: May 2021. There is one minor child. Osomo-Sanchez — Irma Leal Osomo, Syracuse, and Carlos Sanchez, Leon, Mexico. Married: Dec. 22, 1984. Separated: 2010. There are no minor children. Dove-Medina Quiroga — Diamond Dove, North Webster, and Leonardo D. Medina Quiroga, Indianapolis. Married: Nov. 19, 2017. Separated: Sept. 2018. There are no minor children.

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Brandon Wolferman: Stepping up to make his hometown better

Brandon Wolferman is a native of Syracuse who loves his hometown.

“I consider Syracuse a wonderful town, but we can always improve,” he said. “I want to make a difference.”

Noticing some small things that could be changed, Wolferman decided to step up and applied for an open position on the Syracuse Board of Zoning Appeals.

He was appointed and recently had his first meeting on the board. “I’m very excited (to be on the board). It was interesting to see how the mechanics work,” he said.

Some of the small things he’d like to see better addressed include the possibility of moving the crosswalk across SR 13 at the Syracuse Town Hall and Crosson Mill Park back to the corner of the park’s parking lot and the town hall, closer to the fire station.

Milford Public Library — Registration for spring story time begins March 27

The

The adult reading program ends March 31. Drawings are each

Friday before the library closes. If you are already reading, why not join the adult reading program and maybe win a $25 gift card. Stop by the library for more information.

March LEGO Challenge

The monthly LEGO Challenge for March is to build a shamrock. The winner will take home a new LEGO kit. Be sure to enter the challenge by March 25. Children

Syracuse Lions Club celebrates Trail-Blazer in Vision research

The Syracuse Lions Club hosted fellow Lion Brian Bussard from the Baugo Township Lions Club at its monthly dinner/program meeting

Monday, Feb. 27.

A year ago in early February,

Bussard became the pilot participant in groundbreaking vision research from the Illinois Institute of Technology, receiving the first intracortical visual prosthesis implant. This artificial vision implant connects directly to the visual cortex, offering future hope of sight for individuals who are totally blind as a result of functional loss of both retinas and their optic nerves.

Bussard experienced multiple retinal detachments beginning in high school and resulting in complete loss of sight by 2016. In 2018, his blindness was determined to be permanent due to subsequent loss of optic nerve function.

While Bussard’s contribution to

IVP research as a pioneering volunteer is not likely to benefit him personally, he believes it will someday help restore some form of vision to others, demonstrating his commitment to the Lions motto, “We serve.”

In his stirring presentation to the Syracuse Lions, he described the reason for his participation in the research. “Being in this experimental program, knowing that you will probably never benefit from it in your lifetime, is like planting trees knowing you will never enjoy the shade of those trees but someone else may.”

The Syracuse Lions Club meets at 6 p.m. the second and fourth Monday of each month in the Syracuse Community Center. Dinner/ program meetings are on the fourth Monday, and visitors are welcome.

To arrange for a visit, contact Doris Yoder at sgdyoder@gmail.com or any club member.

2023 Lake Tippecanoe Flotilla honors first responders

The 2023 Lake Tippecanoe Flotilla will be honoring first responders at this year’s Fourth of July event, according to Dan Drook, Flotilla chairman. The Flotilla will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 1.

First responders can be seen in all aspects of our life: medical, military, firefighters, local police/ sheriff/state police/department of natural resources, neighbors and relatives.

As an example, within a family there may be a special person who looked after someone. Their heroism makes them a first responder.

The 2023 flotilla is an opportunity to show appreciation. Lake Tippecanoe Property Owners goal is to not only have individuals participate, but organizations can participate as a group.

ages preschool through eighth grade are invited to submit a photo of their creation to milford@ milford.lib.in.us. The library staff will choose a winner from the submissions.

They have a challenge each month during the school year. LEGO Saturdays are from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. the first Saturday of each month March through May. The whole family is welcome to come and build things with the library’s collection of LEGOs.

Preschool Winter Story Time

The last winter preschool story times are at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 8. It is for children ages 3-6.

Maria Pamer will be your storyteller. The theme is story time favorites. Enjoy some special time with your child, make a craft together and share a snack.

Spring story time will begin Wednesday, April 5. Registration for spring story time begins March 27.

He’d also like to see an event, such as a summer lake day, in town that offers a more interactive environment for all residents.

Wolferman is the first to admit he isn’t what most people expect when it comes to serving on a town board. At 27 he has long hair, pierced ears and tattoos. “I’m young. I think I can bring something to the town,” he said. He has a background in construction, which he believes will be an asset on the BZA board.

He believes growing up in a conservative home, but moving around a lot, being exposed to different people and cultures will help him as a BZA member. He said he felt the diversity of the town wasn’t bad, but could be better. He noted as the generations change, the town will, too; if so, it can continue to flourish.

He’s lived on both coasts and traveled extensively before coming back to Syracuse. When he came back, he had a question about a fence so he called the county planning office in Warsaw about whether a permit was required. Then the Syracuse BZA told him something different.

“I can see the confusion, the way things are explained,” he said. He wanted to help residents who want to do the right thing but are confused about the rules.

Wolferman was a pro BMX athlete for 12 years, his last tour being right before COVID

ally become town manager of Syracuse. He is married to Jenna. The couple recently welcomed their first child, a son named Callahan.

Meals

This LTPO event is free. To participate no affiliation to LTPO is required. Pre-registration is necessary to receive cash rewards. Pre-registration is from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, July 1, at the Patona Bay Snack Shop.

So set sail, decorate your boat and join in the parade beginning lakeside at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 1,at the Patona Bay Snack Shop. For safety purposes, launching or throwing any

Warrior basketball loses in sectional, wins regular season finale

The Wawasee Warrior boys varsity basketball team lost to No. 1 NorthWood 52-23 in their firstround sectional game, Tuesday, Feb. 28, at NorthWood.

The Warriors matched the Panthers basket-for-basket throughout the 1st quarter. Warrior senior forward Collin Roberson drained a 3 from the top of the key to give the Warriors an early 3-2 lead. Warrior junior forward Collin Ziebarth hit a 3 from the left wing to bring the Warriors within one, 7-6, halfway through the 1st quarter. Ziebarth drilled another jumper at the end of the 1st quarter. The Panthers led 9-8 at the end of the 1st quarter.

The Panther defense really clamped down in the 2nd quarter. Panther senior guard Cade Brenner, senior guard Ian Raasch and senior forward Brock Bontrager scored all 13 NorthWood points in the 2nd quarter, while holding the Warriors scoreless. The Panthers led 22-8 at halftime.

Ian Raasch scored the first four points of the second half, giving the Panthers a 26-8 lead with 4:43 left in the 3rd quarter. Warrior senior forward Peyton Felger broke the ice with a layup with 4:38 left in the 3rd, making the score 26-10 Panthers. Panther junior guard Ethan Wolfe answered with a quick layup.

Panther sophomore forward Tyler Raasch scored on the following possession, giving the Panthers a 30-10 lead.

Warrior sophomore guard Maddux Everingham and sophomore guard Myles Everingham each scored near the end of the 3rd quarter. The Panthers led 35-14

after three.

Myles Everingham drained another jumper early in the 4th quarter. Maddux Everingham scored midway through the 4th quarter. The Panthers led 42-21 with 4:05 remaining in the ballgame. The Panthers went on a 10-2 run to close the game.

The Warriors put up a valiant effort against one of the best teams in the state. Ziebarth led the Warriors with seven points. Maddux Everingham added six points. Myles Everingham had four points and five assists. Roberson had three points and five rebounds. Felger had two points and four rebounds.

Warriors Defeat East Noble

The Warriors defeated East Noble 62-46 in their final regular season game Friday, Feb. 24, at The Hardwood Teepee.

The Warrior defense clamped down on the Knights early and led 14-7 at the end of the 1st quarter.

The Knights matched the Warriors basket-for-basket throughout the 2nd quarter. Wawasee took a 27-22 lead into the halftime break.

The Warriors came out of the locker room on fire, shooting 59% from the field and 100% from the free throw line in the second half.

The Warriors led 43-35 at the end of the 3rd quarter.

Wawasee pulled away in the 4th quarter, outscoring East Noble 1911 in the final stanza. The Warriors scored 18 points off turnovers.

Ziebarth led all scorers with 25 points. Myles Everingham had 14 points, five assists and three rebounds. Maddux Everingham added 10 points. Roberson had six points and 13 rebounds.

The JV Warriors defeated East Noble 35-33 in their final game of the season.

finished in the top 20 allaround. Reel finished 14th with 31.05 points and Ousley 15th with 30.525. LaJoice finished

Wawasee boys swimming competes at state finals

The Wawasee boys swim team had multiple swimmers compete in the Indiana High School Athletic Association Swimming and Diving State Finals, Feb. 24-25, at the IUPUI Natatorium in Indianapolis.

Nathan Harper swam a fast 100 backstroke prelim race, finishing in 51.89, and was seeded 14th in the state finals. Harper placed 15th in the 100 backstroke state finals, finishing in 52.10.

18th with 29.1 and Kunish 20th with 27.375. Eleven schools participated Bowling Thursday Night Mixers 02/23/23 Wins Loses Gutter Cats 61 31 The Flat Tens 56 36 Hit or Miss 51 41 The Twins 51 41 Leo’s 51 41 Scared Hitless 38.5 53.5

in the sectional. Angola won the sectional championship with 107.55 points. Plymouth finished Irish Nutts 32.5 59.5 High Team Game & Series Scratch: Gutter Cats — 332, 912 500 Series: C. Walters 503 160 Games: D. Rodriguez 167, C. Walters 161, 193, G. Daffron 174

as runners-up with 105.325. East Noble finished 3rd with 104.90. Next meet: Season completed.

The 400 freestyle relay team of Harper, Nate Kryder, Zack Kryder and Cade Garden came in 26th place, finishing in 3:18.09.

Wawasee High School inducts National Honor Society members

The Faculty Committee of Wawasee High School’s National Honor Society Chapter inducted new NHS members Monday, Feb. 27, at Wawasee High School.

Wawasee senior NHS member Zoe Taylor led the Pledge of Allegiance and named the qualifications for new members, which include scholarship, service, leadership and character.

Wawasee NHS members Ethan Dennis, Nadia Whalen, Clay Co-

blentz and Drew Williamson each addressed the importance of these qualifications being essential for new inductees.

New members recited the NHS Pledge: “I pledge myself to uphold the high purposes of the National Honor Society to which I have

been selected, striving in every way by word and by deed to make its ideals the ideals of my school and of my life.”

“The National Honor Society is the nation’s premier organization established to recognize outstanding high school students. More

Wawasee High School 1st semester All ‘A’ honor roll

Wawasee High School named their 1st semester 2022-23 All

“A” Honor Roll. The following students were named to the All “A”

Honor Roll:

Seniors — Laura C. Arford, Beau T. Baker, Sydney R. Baker, Sarah E. Beer, Macenzae A. Bennett, Madeline E. Close, Clay J. Coblentz, Ethan R. Dennis, Kiah

M. Farrington, Peyton M. Felger, Rylee Firestone, Gracelyn E. Hills, Isaac R. Hodges, Ainsley M. Holsten.

And Keegan M. Hurst, Nathan K. Kryder, Izabelle G. Losee, Alexia R. Miller, Olive K. Mina, Christina L. Morrow, Addyson G. Ritter, Emma A. Siri, Andrew P. Slabaugh, Allison M. Stookey, Zoe

G. Taylor, Cole M. Turner, Nadia

H. Whalen, Drew I. Williamson

and Jared R. Zane. Juniors — Haylee J. Allen, Morgan E. Anderson, Delaina R. Avery, Kasey A. Becola, Melina

A. Buliga, Allison D. Clark, McK-

enna G. Clay, Madison T. Conn, Brooklynn R. Gibson, Victor Giron, Nathan T. Harper, Adaline F. Haynes, John F. Hoy.

And Emma G. Jackson, Landen D. Kessler, Lynk S. Klinefelter, Chloe G. Linder, Lucas B. Linder, Madalyn M. Loftis, Kaylie N. Nunemaker, Allyssa B. Perkins, Elliette M. Pulley, Zachary B. Ringler, Chloe K. Rodgerson, Samantha N. Rose.

And Sophia L. Rush, Senate R. Shaw, Summit G. Shaw, Kaydence

G. Shepherd, Stone L. Shipley, Olivia L. Siri, Carson J. Smith, Titus J. Taylor, Sara M. Timmins,

Kayla N. Voss, Dominic M. Ward, Kaden D. Weimer, Emma J. Yoder and Emma K. Young.

Sophomores — Mackenzie J. Bauknecht, Addison R. Beasley, Ella R. Beer, Jaxon L. Brown, Kaytlynn E. Bryant, Alexander J. Dibble, Evelyn G. Duncan, Gwendolyn R. Frank, Aubrey L. Gerber, Oceane H. Glandon.

And Sawyer W. Grimes, Mackenzie J. Hackleman, Joseph R. Harper, Weston C. Hoffert, Isabelle L. Jones, Penelope L. Jones, Rhys A. Jonsson, Cyanna A. Leon, Hannah L. Likens, Noah Macias, Julie A. Mishler, Justin W. Muchowicz II.

And Corrine N. Orth, Morgan E. Reel, Brooklyn N. Roose, Rachel L. Studebaker, Alexis K. Stump, Quentin E. Taylor,

Jaymison M. Thornsbearry, Sam

A. Trowbridge, Hannah G. Truex, Lucy C. Wilkinson and Michael W. Wood. Freshmen — Brogan T. Ashley, Melissa J. Bontrager, Benjamin Brace, Rielyn D. Brettell, Coltin S. Bucher, Lillian M. Crabtree, Gavin W. Escoto, Davis M. Everingham, Addison S. Hatfield, Madison E. Jackson, Emerson A. Krull. And Zack A. Kryder, Kyle J. Maxwell, Francie M. McDonald, Derek D. Morrison, Ryen S. Ogan, Weston M. Plikerd, Katelynn R. Shoemaker, Sophia M. Smith, Ashley E. Wake, Gabriel L. Ward and Micah Wilson.

than just an honor roll, NHS serves to honor those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service and character.

“We use a baseline of students who are at a 10.0 GPA on a 12.0 scale midway through their junior

year. The students are invited to apply and then go through an application process, including three staff recommendations and a personal essay. This year we are inducting 46 juniors and seniors,” said NHS Advisor Rebecca Puckett.

It happened in North Webster ... 40 years ago Christa Sincroft crowned NWES spelling bee champion

10

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23, in the NWCC gym.

As March blows in with Old Man Winter’s last hurrah, North Webster Community Public Library is gearing up for some hurrah of its own with three monthlong contests starting Friday.

Congratulations to Lakeland Kiwanis Club of North Webster on receiving the Outstanding Club of 2012 at the Kiwanis Midwinter Conference. John Roberts, Matt Roberts, Jean Cowan and Dave Edwards were presented the banner by past Lt. Gov. Dick Pelletier, Syracuse. One of the club’s members, Sandy Angel, was at the weekend retreat.

20 YEARS AGO, FEB. 26, 2003

William and Kelley Graber, North Webster, are the parents of a son, Ryan Allen, born at 2:57 a.m. Monday, Feb. 17, in Goshen General Hospital. He weighed 8 pounds, 15.4 ounces and was 20 1/4 inches long. Lakeland Kiwanis Club of North Webster met Feb. 10 with

Neva Hartman presiding. First Lady Roberta Redslob reported the book drive at the mid-year conference was successful, with people receiving 550 new books, 125 used books and cash gift cards. The club’s guest speaker was Rob Ladson, Kosciusko County engineer and superintendent.

During the Feb. 10 meeting of Lakeland Quilt Club, it was noted Elaine Rider and Winona Drake are working on baby quilts for the Linus project. The meeting was held in North WebsterTippecanoe Township Community Building. Lucille Welch was hostess for the day.

30 YEARS AGO, MARCH 3, 1993

Efficient Homemakers met Feb. 18 at Tippecanoe Baptist Camp. Shelly Judy was hostess and Alice Long will be the hostess for the March meeting. Members of the Goodwill Club were special guests. North Webster Lionesses met

It happened in Syracuse ... 40 years ago

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

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Feb. 18 at the North Webster Community Building. Sherry VanPelt, vice president, called the business session to order. Sandy Kissane read minutes of the January meeting. Mary Jane Foster gave the treasurer’s report. Guests were Lori Howard and Theresa Sembeck.

Lois Lundy was hostess for the Feb. 18 meeting of Backwater Friends Club. Mildred Gray was assistant hostess. The officers are: Gray, president; Laura Coverstone, vice president; Lundy, secretary; and Edith Hoffert, treasurer.

40 YEARS AGO, MARCH 2, 1983

Christa Marie Sincroft is the spelling bee champion at North Webster Elementary School. The winning word for Sincroft, in the contest held Monday, Feb. 21, was “ponderous.” Runner-up is Kimberlee Carmichael. The girls will compete against the North Webster Junior High School spelling bee winners March 7.

With the use of a film and the experience he gathered from a trip to the Pacific Northwest last year, Don Arnold shared his observations on the volcanic eruption of Mount St. Helens with the Kiwanis Club of Lakeland, North Webster, Monday, Feb. 21.

50 YEARS AGO, FEB. 28, 1973

The youth group of North Webster United Methodist Church has agreed to purchase a 73-passenger bus and is planning an extensive tour during the spring vacation, which will be the first week in April.

Invocation was given by Ray Finkbiner at the recent Kiwanis meeting. Garrett Epley, Lewis Brainerd, Glen Beery, and Ernie Eichbach were guests.

The family night program held at North Webster United Methodist Church Sunday night drew a record crowd. Following the carry-in dinner, a talent program was held with Jim Kline and Greg Smith sharing MC duties.

Eve Payne named special Honorary Warrior of the Month

10 YEARS AGO, FEB. 27, 2013

A former grocery store in Syracuse will now be home to a medical office. A petition to allow a medical clinic in a commercial district was approved at the Syracuse Board of Zoning Appeals meeting Thursday evening. Great Lakes Capital, South Bend, wants to lease the new medical clinic, located at 107 W. Pickwick Drive. The building was once the home of Arthur’s Fresh Market.

The Wawasee Warrior gymnastics team competed in its final meet of the regular season Monday in Ligonier, defeating West Noble. Wawasee’s Taylor Busse took a first-place spin on the bars Monday. Busse was the lone bright spot on the beam as she did not fall once and took first place with a score of 8.15.

20 YEARS AGO, FEB. 26, 2003

Police were notified by a resident that his vehicle was stolen from Main and Mill streets. He called back a short time later and

reported his vehicle was not stolen, he parked out front and forgot where he parked the vehicle.

The Syracuse PTO still has $14,582 to raise in order to receive a matching Dekko Foundation grant for new playground equipment at Syracuse Elementary School. While there is still money to be raised, blueprints for both the front and back playgrounds have been drawn up. Helmen Architects and Design in Elkhart donated the blueprints to the PTO.

30 YEARS AGO, MARCH 3, 1993

On Monday evening, March 1, the Syracuse Library Board of Trustees hosts a dinner for retiring member Virginia Ditmer. Ditmer, who is also a retired music teacher, served as secretary of the library board for 11 years, seeing us through the many years of planning and execution of the building project, which doubled the size of the facility in Syracuse.

At the Indiana State swimming Finals the Warriors set four school records and showed every-

one in attendance that the Wawasee swimming program is on its way to a school-best seventhplace state finish.

40 YEARS AGO, MARCH 2, 1983

When the Syracuse Board of Zoning Appeals meets in a special session tomorrow (Thursday) evening, several issues must be decided before the special exception for the proposed Syracuse Lake condominium project. Kosciusko Count planning rules require a 35-foot setback from the water’s edge for any development of lakeside property.

Wawasee High School is pleased to announce that Eve Payne, North Webster, has been named the special Honorary War-

rior of the Month for her support of Wawasee and Wawasee athletics. Mrs. Payne attends all of the girls’ athletic events both home and away, and she is a very positive and energetic person according to Dr. Howard Hull.

50 YEARS AGO, FEB. 28, 1973

Ev Ganz was elected president of the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce at a meeting held last Thursday at Maxwelton golf club. Due to unsafe ice conditions and lack of snow at the race site on Lake Wawasee , the Lakeland Snowmobile club of North Webster is forced to cancel the Hoosier 250 race previously set for March 4.

It happened in Milford … 10 years ago

Randy Veach finds first outdoor water meter used in town

10 YEARS AGO, FEB. 27, 2013

Gordon Rhodes celebrated his 91st birthday and two large sheet cakes were brought in to Lakeland Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Milford so every resident and staff member could enjoy the cake.

“Happy Birthday” was sung by all and everyone had a great time. Rhodes was also crowned king at the nursing home Valentine’s Day.

Utilities Superintendent Randy Veach found the first Read-O-Matic outdoor water meter that was used in town. It was installed at the home of Marion Deeter, who held the utilities superintendent position in the 1950s. The Read-O-Matic’s claim to fame was it was installed and could be read from outside the home. Until then meters had to be installed in the basement, and water meter readers had to come inside and go down there to record the data.

20 YEARS AGO, FEB. 26, 2003

Girl Scout leader Stephanie Gardner sorted cases of Girl Scout cookies on a snowy Monday afternoon in the Tom and Deb Patterson garage. A truck carried 1,453 cases of Girl Scout cookies into Milford Monday, and Girl Scouts will be busy delivering cookies to those who placed orders.

Seventh-grade students at Milford Middle School are participating in Junior Achievement’s “Economics for Staying in School.” The program helps students discover the importance of an education

and how it relates to entering the workforce.

Milford School will present its science fair on Friday. Damon Woodard’s project is titled “What are Hydraulics?” and Vince Baumgartner’s is “Holograms: Do they catch more attention than 2-D images?” “Yes, they do,” says Baumgartner. 30 YEARS AGO, FEB. 24, 1993

Diane Coppes, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Kidd, 9549 N. 200E, Milford, has been tapped for membership in the 1992-93 Who’s Who Among Students in American University and Colleges honors program. She was nominated by her school’s nominating committee.

Jon Dewart and Jeff Kitson would like to invite the public to their one-year anniversary sale at Arrow Sales on SR 15N, Milford. The public may sign up for a drawing between Feb. 22 and Feb. 27. The winning entrant will be chosen at 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27.

A redecorating project is currently underway at EastlundMishler Funeral Home on North Main Street, Milford, with new carpeting expected to arrive for installation later this week. With much of the redecorating being centered in the main chapel, local mortician Richard Owen and others have been busy with painting, wallpapering, hanging of new

TWF’s photo contest captures the beauty of the watershed

There’s no question some of the most beautiful scenery is in the Tippecanoe River watershed, which spans more than 60 lakes and streams that offer captivating images all year long.

The Watershed Foundation’s 11th annual photo contest, “Picture Your Watershed,” aimed to capture a glimpse of that beauty through the collective lens of the area’s photographers.

“Over the course of a year, local residents see so much beauty on and in our local waters. Sometimes, in even a matter of minutes, the landscape changes and the majority of us miss moments just a few of us might capture photographically.

“Through our photo contest, we are able to see some of what makes our community so exceptional,” explained Jennifer Zartman Romano, communications coordinator for The Watershed Foundation.

The annual competition is open to all pictures taken in the Upper Tippecanoe River watershed and surrounding land, an area spanning from Crooked Lake in Whitley County through portions of Noble County and continuing into Kosciusko County and Warsaw.

Pictures were accepted until Dec. 31, and then open voting for the “People’s Choice” award began. A panel of judges from TWF evaluated the rest of the entries for additional awards.

Winners included:

• People’s Choice: Rucel “Rusty” Martinez, “Winona Lake.”

• Wet ‘n’ Wildlife Award: Jerry C. Johnson, “Webster Lake.”

• Pollution Solutions Award: Michael O’Connor, “Lake Tippecanoe.”

RandyContinued from page 8

draperies, etc., as well as taking out a portion of a wall between two of the smaller rooms.

40 YEARS AGO, MARCH 2, 1983

Eleven-year-old Toby Harney, son of Mr. and Mrs. Donald Harney, Milford, has been chosen by Donna Pollen, music teacher at Milford Elementary School, as the March Music Student of the Month. Toby is a fifth grade student who enjoys singing and dramatics.

The cottage of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Wuthrich at Waubee Lake is getting a new face. The cottage is being sided and is really looking sharp.

The Milford Fire Department was called to the Don Beer farm, r 1 Milford, Saturday, Feb. 26, at 5 p.m. A grass fire had burned out of control, but firemen were able to successfully extinguish the blaze in about five minutes.

50 YEARS AGO, FEB. 28, 1973

Harold Young, well known retired Milford teacher and principal, was honored Saturday night when he was named “1973 Milford Citizen of the Year,” in a community-wide contest sponsored by the Milford Area Development Council (MAD). The presentation was made at a dinner meeting by Carl Duncan, who was the community’s choice for “Citizen of the Year” last year.

Eldon G. Wilson is the new minister at the Christian church in Milford. He comes to Milford from the Valley Christian church in Tucson, Ariz. Wilson and his wife Judith have two daughters, Kandy and Robin, ages six and three.

Gene Miller, son of Mr. and Mrs. Herman C. Miller of r 1 Milford, was recently awarded the bronze star with the first oak leaf cluster for meritorious service while serving in Viet Nam for the period from February to November 1972.

• Nature’s Studio Award: Mark Baumgartner, “Irish Lake.”

• Lovin’ Our Lakes Award: Patrick Pfefferkorn, “Lake Tippecanoe.”

“Thank you to all the photographers, amateur and professional, who participated this year,” Romano added. “We were able to see some incredible photography representing a large portion of our watershed, showing countless beautiful moments which highlight why TWF’s work to protect the quality of our local lakes and streams is so important.”

Prizes for each category were donated by Bart’s Watersports in North Webster.

The Tippecanoe Township Board will convene after 6:00 p.m. on March 14, 2023 at the North Webster Community Center, 301 N. Main St., regarding ADDITIONAL

for the following funds.

NOTICE OF HEARING ON PETITION FOR DISANNEXATION

The Town Council of Milford Junction, Indiana will conduct a hearing on a petition filed by S. Douglas Strycker and Helen Ann Strycker for disannexation of real estate described as:

A tract of land in Southeast Quarter of Section 9, Township 34 North, Range 6 East, Van Buren Township, Kosciusko County, Indiana more particularly described as follows:

Beginning at the Northwest corner of the Southeast Quarter of said Section 9, said point being marked by a railroad spike located within the right-of-way of County Road 1250 North; thence North 89˚17’19” East (basis of bearings established by INDOT VRS Base, using NAD83 Indiana East coordinate system), along said North line and within said road right-of-way, 719.91 feet to the point of beginning of said easement; thence North 89˚17’19” East along said North line and within said road right-of-way, 50.00 feet; thence South 00˚00’08” West 1046.10 feet to the Southwest corner of the Douglas S. Strycker property as recorded in Document Record 312, page 423 in the office of the Recorder of Kosciusko County; thence North 89˚59’52” West a distance of 50.00 feet; thence North 00˚00’08” East, 1045.48 feet to the point of beginning, containing 1.20 acres, more or less.

The hearing will take place March 13, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. at the Milford Community Building, 111 S. Main Street, Milford, Indiana 46542. Patricia Gall Clerk-Treasurer, Town of Milford Junction, Indiana hspaxlp Mar.1-8

Dike Rehabilitation Project in accordance with the Specifications and Contract Drawings. Bids will be received until 11:00 a.m. prevailing time, March 14, 2023 at the Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District Office at the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation, 11586 State Road 13, Syracuse, Indiana 46567. Bids received after that time will be returned unopened. All bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District Office at the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation Office at 11:00 a.m. on March 14, 2023.

The project involves the installation of approximately 11,150 square feet of steel sheet piling wall, concrete cap on the wall, grading along the existing dike, and other miscellaneous work.

A Pre-Bid meeting is scheduled for March 7, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. prevailing time at the Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District Office at the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation, 11586 State Road 13, Syracuse, Indiana 46567. All prime contractors and other interested parties are encouraged to attend. A site visit will occur after the meeting for those wishing to participate.

Contract Documents and Plans are on file and may be examined at the Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District Office at the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation, 11586 State Road 13, Syracuse, Indiana 46567 and at the offices of Lawson-Fisher Associates P.C., 525 West Washington Avenue, South Bend, Indiana 46601, Monday through Friday. Contract Documents and Plans may be obtained from Lawson-Fisher Associates P.C. for a non-refundable cost of $100.00 per set.

Proposals shall be properly and completely executed on proposal forms included in the Specifications. Each proposal must be submitted in a sealed envelope bearing the title of the project and the name and address of the bidder. The work to be performed and the proposal to be submitted shall include sufficient and proper sums for all general construction, labor, materials, permits, licenses, insurance, and so forth incidental to and required for the project.

Each bid shall be accompanied by a cashier’s or certified check, drawn on an acceptable bank, or an acceptable bidder’s bond made payable to the Owner, in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the total amount of the bid, which check or bond will be held by the Owner as evidence that the bidder will, if awarded the contract, enter into the same with the Owner upon notification from him to do so within ten (10) days of said notification.

Approved performance and payment bonds guaranteeing faithful and proper performance of the work and materials, to be executed by an acceptable surety company, will be required of the Contractor at the time he executes his contract. The bonds will be in the amount of 125% of the Contract Price and must be in full force and effect throughout the term of the Construction Contract plus a period of twelve (12) months from the date of substantial completion.

Approved three-year Maintenance Bond in the amount of 10% of the final contract price is required after the work is completed.

The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, or to waive any and all informalities in bidding. Any proposal may be withdrawn prior to the above scheduled time for the opening of proposals or authorized postponement thereof. Any proposal received after the time and date specified shall not be considered. No proposal may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids for at least sixty (60) days.

A conditional or qualified Proposal will not be accepted.

All applicable laws, ordinances, and the rules and regulations of all authorities having jurisdiction over construction of the project shall apply to the project throughout.

Proposals shall be properly and completely executed on proposal forms included in the Specifications. Proposals shall include all information requested by Indiana Form 96 (Revised 2013). The Owner may make such investigations as deemed necessary to determine the ability of the Bidder to perform the work and the Bidder shall furnish to the Owner all such information and data for this purpose as the Owner may request. The Owner reserves the right to reject any bid if the evidence submitted by, or investigation of, such Bidder fails to satisfy the Owner that such Bidder is properly qualified to carry out the obligations of the Agreement and to complete the work contemplated therein.

Each Bidder is responsible for inspecting the Project site, especially concerning access to the proposed work, and for reading and being thoroughly familiar with the Contract Documents and Specifications. The failure or omission of any Bidder to do any of the foregoing shall in no way relieve any Bidder from any obligation with respect to its Bid.

Syracuse Public Library —

Book clubs announce March picks

Syracuse Public Library has two book clubs, one for adult and the other for young adult readers. The adult book club will read “The Thursday Murder Club” by Richard Osman in March. Set in a peaceful retirement village, the novel features four unlikely friends who meet weekly to discuss unsolved crimes.

Together, they call themselves the Thursday Murder Club. When a local developer is found dead with a mysterious photograph left next to the body, Thursday Murder Club members suddenly find themselves in the middle of their first live case.

As the bodies pile up, can this unorthodox but brilliant gang catch the killer before it’s too late?

Discussions will occur at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 16, in the downstairs meeting room and at 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, via Zoom. Pick up a copy of the book at the library or access it

digitally through the Libby app. For information about the adult book club or to receive a Zoom invitation, contact Becky Brower at bbrower@syracuse.lib.in.us.

Meanwhile, the young adult book club has selected “Chains” by Laurie Halse Anderson for March. As the Revolutionary War begins, 13-year-old Isabel wages her own fight … for freedom.

Promised freedom upon the death of their owner, she and her sister, Ruth, in a cruel twist of fate become the property of a malicious New York City couple, the Locktons, who have no sympathy for the American Revolution and even less for Ruth and Isabel.

When Isabel meets Curzon, a slave with ties to the Patriots, he encourages her to spy on her owners, who know details of British plans for invasion.

Pick up copies at the library. Digital e-books are available on Libby and Hoopla. The dis-

Around The Lakes

cussion occurs from 4-5 p.m. Wednesday, March 22, in the Rosalyn Jones Room. Email Michelle Parker, mparker@syracuse.lib.in.us, or Amber Weber, aweber@syracuse. lib.in.us, with questions.

LEGO Club Returns

LEGO Club returns to the children’s department at 4 p.m.

Monday, March 6. The Syracuse Public Library will put out its LEGO tubs with everything young builders could need or want. Emilia Layne will also have building challenges each week. Come, have fun and make friends at 4 p.m. every Monday.

Decluttering Support Group

Seeking to reduce the items in your house and need a little encouragement? Join the Decluttering Support Group at noon Thursday, March 9, in the library’s downstairs meeting. The group offers a nonjudgmental space and resources to realize your dreams of a simplified life.

The church in 2023

Living In Transition

Effectively

and operating a basic needs bank in Milford.

THE WINNERS of the walkathon at SPEC, located at North Webster Community Center, have been announced.

ChurchPictured in the front row of the larger photo are Sally Carpenter, an overnight stay at Oakwood; Linda Wirick, Pilcher’s Shoes gift card; Ann Darlington, round of golf at Maxwelton Golf; Kay Caskey, Bourbon Street pizza; Marta Wonder, Neighborhood Fresh gift card; and LeAnn Harris, Neighborhood Fresh gift card.

In back row are Mike Duff, Bourbon Street pizza; Helen Frank, The Dixie boat ride; Barb Smith, Bourbon Street pizza; and Linda Stookey, Pilcher’s Shoes gift card. Not pictured are Tom Reiff, round of golf for four people; Jill Henry, an overnight stay at Oakwood; Alice Edwards, a one-year Mail-Journal subscription, Kay Solwolke, Sleepy Owl gift card; Dave Stockman, Lassus discounts and coupons; and Charles Fawley, Bourbon Street pizza. Nancy Gray, seen in the smaller photo, collected $849 and won a YMCA membership. —o—

SYRACUSE AMERICAN Legion Auxiliary #223 will hold an all-you-can-eat breakfast from 8-11 a.m. Sunday, March 5. All members of the public age 18 and over are invited. —o—

CONGRATULATIONS TO Dan Buell of Milford, who was one of two new deputies hired by new Kosciusko County Sheriff Jim Smith. Buell, who has eight years of law enforcement experience, has been assigned to the patrol division. Additionally, Jakayla Troyer of Milford has been added as one of three new dispatchers with the sheriff’s office.

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PATHWAYS CTE will hold a student job fair from 10:30-11:40 a.m. Thursday, March 16, at Wawasee High School, 1 Warrior Path, Syracuse.

Saturday, March 25, at the Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N. Long Drive, Syracuse.

There will be a cash bar and snacks available for purchase. There will also be a $20 per person cover charge at the door. All proceeds will go toward the care of all the furry friends at the rescue.

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 seventh article of the series.

Living in Transition Effectively is a 501(c)(3) ministry based in the Kosciusko County Jail and the Milford Methodist Meeting House and is “dedicated to assisting incarcerated individuals in making a successful transition back into their community,” according to its website, liteinkcj.org.

Its vision is “to encourage personal, relational and spiritual transformation through community collaboration.”

It serves those in transition through a variety of avenues, such as holding discussion and recovery groups, writing classes and other educational opportunities inside the jail and in the meeting house; offering personalized goal-setting counseling; maintaining a library of uplifting material; hosting community events for former and current inmates and their loved ones;

On April 1, LITE will open the LITEhouse, a recovery home for women, in the home next to the MMMH. A grand opening featuring a ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held at the location Saturday, April 22.

The organization is inspired by its founders’ shared Christian faith, but is open to inmates of all faiths and beliefs.

Tammy Cotton is the executive director of the ministry and answered the questionnaire on behalf of the organization.

“Our most important issue for 2023 is to try to imitate Jesus, to be His hands and feet,” she said.

This year’s goals include expanding the programs inside the jail; reaching more inmates; replicating the programs at the MMMH for the inmates’ loved ones to help reentry; and implementing a “recovery cafe” model in Milford “to provide a safe space for individuals to be in community with each other and offer support and growth that creates sustainable recovery for women and men.”

Cotton said, “LITE believes we all have a ‘light’ to shine,” citing Matthew 5:14-16: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

LITE is operated entirely by volunteers; Cotton said, “we always need volunteers and donations,” and listed specific positions: “study group leaders, peer recovery coaches, people to help with transportation, board members, etc.”

“Be empathetic, learn what the needs are in our community and get involved,” she said. “Mother Teresa said, ‘If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten we belong to each other.’ We are here to serve, using our gifts, talents and treasures to serve those who are lost, forgotten, etc.”

The organization’s website maintains an “Amazon Wishlist” for those who wish to purchase specific needed items for the ministry. For more information, call (574) 306-0006 or visit liteinkcj.org.

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THE 14TH annual haystack dinner benefiting the Van Laeken Endowment Fund for Liver Research at Riley Hospital for children will take place from 4:30-7 p.m. Saturday, March 18, at New Salem Church of the Brethren, located on the corner of CR 200E and CR 900N, Milford, near Maple Leaf Farms.

Come and enjoy with any donation amount. Both dine-in or curbside carry-out is available. Enter at the road intersection and follow the signs for drive-thru service.

Additionally, there will be a special guest appearance from West Lafayette as Purdue Pete will be at the dinner from 5:30-6:30 p.m.

There will also be an online auction available in which you can bid on a variety of donated items. For more information, call (574) 528-0235.

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AMANDA L. Kelley, a representative Cultural Homestay International, is looking for area families interested in hosting an exchange student. She can be reached at (260) 704-1575.

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LOOKING FOR a summer camp to send your children to? A camp will be offered in Syracuse; however, at least 11 children are needed to have a camp this summer at North Webster Elementary School. The camp dates are June 5-9, June 12-16, June 19-23, June 26-30, July 10-14, and July 17-21. The camp is from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at a location to be determined. The Syracuse location will be open early at 5:30 a.m. for both pre-K and school-age children. For more information, email brosenberry@wawasee.k12.in.us.

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NEW HOPE Pet Rescue will present The Strays Band performing at a fundraiser for the rescue. The concert will be from 7-10 p.m.

MILFORD KIWANIAN Bobi Doll sent us this photo taken at a recent club meeting. Pictured is Milford Kiwanis President Paula Stokes alongside Cory Benz, owner of Titus Funeral Home, who was the guest speaker. Milford Kiwanis meets at 6:15 p.m. the second and fourth Thursdays of each month inside the Milford Community Building. As always, visitors always are welcome to attend any of their meetings to see what being a Kiwanian is all about!

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THE EVER-POPULAR Cabin Fever Indoor Garage Sale, sponsored by the Syracuse Parks Department, will be held Saturday, March 4, at the Syracuse Community Center, 1013 Long Drive, Syracuse. The sale begins at 9 a.m., so show up early to find those treasures. —o—

THE BATTING cages are open and ready for use at NWCC. They will be open for the next seven weeks. NWCC changed the way cages operate due to an overwhelming interest. The goal as always is to make these available for as many people as possible.

If you are a first-time visitor, you will need to stop at the main office to sign a waiver of liability. All athletes under the age of 18 must have a legal guardian sign the waiver. All athletes 15 and under must be accompanied by a legal guardian; you must bring your own equipment. The cost is $15 for 45 minutes.

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CUB SCOUT Pack 3828 will hold a Scout Camp bingo fundraiser Saturday, March 11. Doors will open at 5 p.m. with bingo starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus, 414 S. Sycamore St., Syracuse. Bring $25 to play and for snacks. No outside drinks allowed. Players must be 18. Bring cans of food or old pairs of shoes to win door prizes. —o—

HAVE YOU ever considered trying yoga to assist with your flexibility and improve your overall health? If so, or even if you’re a yoga veteran, there’s an opportunity for you in Milford. Natalie Smeltzer is offering yoga classes for all ages at 10 a.m. Wednesdays and 6 p.m. Fridays at the Milford Meeting House, formerly the Milford United Methodist Church, 210 W. Catherine St.

The classes are open to all levels and are $5 per person per class. For further information, call or text Smelter at (574) 529-2221 or email nababie2013@gmail.com. The opportunity is a collaborative effort between LITE in KCJ and NatAnn Yoga.

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GRANGER SMITH, a country music singer from Texas, recently posted a video on his YouTube Channel page in which he touts his recent acquisition of the building materials from a barn that once stood in Syracuse. In the video, Smith details how the barn, which was built sometime around 1841 as seen in the photo below, was purchased and moved. It was in the process of demolition when an offer was made to purchase the wood and other fixtures to be moved to a new home in the Lone Star State.

The pieces of the barn were transported via truck from Syracuse to Texas, where a new structure is being constructed on Smith’s property using the reclaimed wood and materials. If you’re interested in watching the fascinating 19-minute video, go to youtube.com/watch?v=wR6lkCEgVwU and check it out. It’s well worth your time!