The Mail-Journal - March 8, 2023

Flood control device wide open to handle extra water from recent rain, snow

Residents around Lake Wawasee have raised concerns regarding lake levels being higher than normal. Chad Jonsson, superintendent for Syracuse Parks and Recreation, explained the gates on the flood control device in Crosson Mill Park are wide open, but the area has received close to 5 inches of rain since Feb. 22. The Syracuse Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for operating the flood control device in Crosson Mill Park.

Jonsson explained there are three buoys located in channels around Lake Wawasee that provide information regarding the water level of the lake. He noted on Feb. 22 all three buoys recorded the lake level was at or below normal.

In addition to Lake Wawasee’s water level, photos of Constitution Pond submitted to The Mail-Journal show it has flooded streets in the area with water going toward the lake. Reports were the water was over the pond’s banks and deep enough ducks were paddling around in it.

The gates on the flood control device are open to the maximum of 27 inches. Jonsson noted water from the lake flows into Turkey Creek and must be regulated in a controlled manner so as not to take out a bridge upstream or cause flooding as it flows through Milford before heading north and flowing into the Elkhart River.

“We’re dumping the water

Residential TIF district recommended for new subdivision in Milford

A residential tax increment finance district in Milford was given a favorable recommendation at the regular meeting of the Kosciusko County Area Plan Commission Wednesday, March 1. Eastfield’s 52-lot subdivision was already annexed into the town of Milford. The 20.78-acre site was given a favorable recommendation for plat approval at last month’s APC meeting. Milford Town Council will also hear the case Monday, March 13.

“We want to keep home prices down,” said Andy Boxberger, attorney for Milford Redevelopment Commission. “Our intent is to use 50% of the TIF to pay the developer back. This will help facilitate construction of the residential subdivision to offset the construction cost.”

The board also debated a revised agricultural accessory building ordinance amendment, allowing any moveable agricultural accessory structures to be permitted in conjunction with any permitted livestock operation in an agriculturally-zoned area. Per the ordinance, said structures shall not exceed 400 square feet. Once a permit is issued, the original structure can be located anywhere.

The board gave its favorable recommendation; however, the matter will need to go before the county commissioners for the board’s final decision at its March 28 meeting.

Edd Allen’s petition for an appeal was continued until next month. He is requesting to amend self-imposed restrictive covenants associated with the rezoning request to originally rezone the property in question to commercial and as amended by allowing modular homes 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.

Randall Jessop’s petition to re-

zone ground from an agricultural district to a residential district was granted. The property is located on the south side of Mock Road, north of CR 100 East in Milford in Van Buren Township. Michael Jackson’s petition to rezone 3.016 acres from an agricultural district to a residential district was granted. The property is located on the south side of Jackson Street, south of Main Street in Harrison Township. The case will be heard by the county commissioners at 9:15 a.m. March 28.

Mike Long’s petition to vacate lots 1 through 8 in South Etna Estates was approved. The property is located on the south side of CR 250 North, west of SR 19 in Etna Green.

James and Sheila Craig’s petition for a one-lot subdivision was granted. The couple asked for preliminary plat approval for an agricultural II subdivision on a 3.38-acre tract of ground. The property is located on the west side of CR 600 East, south of Pierceton Road in Washington Township. The county commissioners approved rezoning the property, located west of Pierceton, from agricultural to agricultural II Tuesday, Feb. 28.

Approval was also given for Michel and Christine Noel’s petition to rezone ground from a residential district to an agricultural II district. The 2.6-acre property is located on the north side of CR 1100 North, east of CR 200 East in Van Buren Township. The county commissioners will hear the case at 9:15 a.m. March 28.

Brian Chaney’s petition was also approved. He asked for the preliminary plat approval for the replat of three lots in Lake Forest, West View Phase II. The property is located on the west side of EMS C29 Lane in Plain Township.

Lisa Manahan’s request for the preliminary plat approval for the replat of one lot in Lakeview Terrace was accepted. The property is located on the north side of Ridgeview Drive, east of EMS T12 Lane in Tippecanoe Township.

Rain, rain, don’t go away

said. He noted it could take 2-4

Yentes resigns from Syracuse-Wawasee Trails

Erlene Yentes, administrator of the Syracuse-Wawasee Trails, has tendered her resignation, effective immediately.

Yentes began her tenure Dec. 2, 2019. During her three years with the Trails she saw the finishing of the popular Conklin Bay segment of the trail, as well as the beginning of plans to continue that segment to the Wawasee Middle School.

As part of her responsibilities, Yentes oversaw the Tour de Lakes summer bike ride and its growth, which become an eventful day of fun for over 400 participants. She also managed the day-to-day workings of the Syracuse-Wawasee Trails Committee, grant applications, trail maintenance and many other responsibilities that came with her job.

“Erlene’s personal love of the trails and biking showed in her dedication to the job as director,” said Kay Young, SyracuseWawasee Trials Committee chair. “The entire committee wishes her

Northern Indiana has recently experienced heavy rainfall, causing flooding in some areas. The sight of water-filled fields may seem disconcerting; however, while the floods have caused damage and inconvenience to some residents, the precipitation has been welcomed by local farmers.

The flooding has been caused by a combination of factors, including melting snow and heavy rain over the past few weeks. Riv-

ers and streams have risen rapidly, with some overflowing their banks and causing road closures in low-lying areas.

Despite the inconvenience and damage caused by the flooding, the rain has been a blessing for farmers in the region. Many farmers had been concerned about the dry conditions over the winter months, which had left the soil in need of moisture. The heavy rain has provided much-needed water for crops and is expected to help farmers achieve a successful har-

Rain, rain,

Continued from page 1

vest later in the year.

Local farmer and Kosciusko County resident Jon Roberts said there is a little flooding in spots here and there, but it is too early in the season to be concerned about flooding in fields.

Likewise, Kosciusko County farmer Herbert Krull said the recent weather has not caused any damage for him.

“If this would have happened 30 days from now, it would be concerning. We needed the rain,” said Krull.

For farmers, the wet soil is easier to work with, making it easier to plant seeds and prepare the ground for planting. The rain also helps wash away any debris or excess fertilizer, improving the quality of the soil.

Local authorities have been working hard to mitigate the ef-

fects of the flooding, with emergency services responding quickly to any reports of flooding or damage. Residents have been advised to stay away from flooded areas, and are reminded not to drive through flooded roads. With additional rain and snow in the forecast, residents should also prepared for the possibility of further flooding in the coming days.

Overall, while the flooding has caused some problems, the rain has been good news for farmers in the region. With more rain forecast in the coming days, the hope is that the benefits of the precipitation will outweigh any negative impacts caused by the floods.

Permits renewed at alcohol board

business as One Ten-A Craft Meatery, 110-112 N. Buffalo St., Warsaw. Beer, wine and liquor — river and lake.

Six alcoholic beverage permit renewals with no violations were approved during a brief Kosciusko County Alcohol and Tobacco Commission meeting on Thursday, March 2.

The following permits were approved:

BBQ On Broadway, 104 S. Broadway St., Mentone. Beer and wine retailer — restaurant.

Fraternal Order of Eagles No. 3760, 12889 N. Kern Road, Syracuse. Beer, wine and liquor — fraternal club.

JST Solutions LLC, doing

Loyal Order of Moose 1423, 1815 W. Lake St., Warsaw. Beer, wine and liquor — fraternal club. Sleepy Owl Supper Club, 11374 N. SR 13, Syracuse. Beer, wine and liquor — restaurant. Walmart Stores East LP, doing business as Walmart No. 1304, 2501 Walton Blvd., Warsaw. Beer, wine and liquor — drug store.

The local ATC’s next meeting will be held at the Kosciusko County Courthouse at 1 p.m.

Thursday, April 6.

Limit your screen time

In this day and age, it’s easy to spend hours on end looking at a screen. Between new gaming systems, different streaming TV services and new trending apps, it’s hard to not be looking at a screen. We have a mini screen at the tips of our fingers at every second. For most, it’s used for everything we do. Limiting screen time can be difficult especially if you have an office job that requires you to be on the computer most of the day.

A couple of years ago, the average screen time for adults in the U.S. was around 11 hours per day. During the pandemic, it skyrocketed to around 19 hours a day. That’s more than half of the day.

Around 30% of adults say they are online all of the time. It is extra difficult for individuals who work from home to get away from a screen. Too much screen time affects us in more ways than people think. It can cause physical effects such as

insomnia, poor sleep habits, neck/back pain, eye strain and headaches. Too much screen time can also affect us cognitively and mentally. We can begin to see changes in cognition, addictive behavior and mental health disorders.

While experts know you can’t change the nature of your work environment, you may be able to make some changes outside of your work environment. Research says you should limit screen time to around two hours or less a day outside of work. The other time spent looking at a screen whether it is a phone, TV, tablet, computer, etc. should be spent participating in physical activity at a feasible level.

Take small steps to minimize your screen time instead of cutting yourself off cold turkey. You will be more successful this way. You can start by being intentional and turning on timers or turning off notifications. You could even go as far as leaving devices in a completely separate room. This will help with kicking a habit that has become like second nature to us.

North Webster Community Public Library — Free

women’s self-defense class

Steve Hanford of Lions Karate in North Webster will be teaching a free women’s self-defense class from 5:30-6:45 p.m. Wednesday, March 22, at the North Webster Community Public Library.

This class is the perfect opportunity to learn new skills that can help you feel more confident in everyday life as well as in potentially threatening situations. Women of all ages and physical abilities are encouraged to attend and there are no prerequisites for this class. Registration is required because space is limited. Please register by phone at (574) 834-7122 or by email at info@nweb.lib.in.us.

Weekly Library Events

The following activities are

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

Adult Events Cookbook Club, 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 14. This month’s theme is family favorites. Everyone has recipes that have been passed down through generations. Bring your family’s favorite recipes and/or dishes to share, and feel free to share fond memories associated with the dishes as well. While at Cookbook Club, enjoy Mandy’s family favorite beef and noodle dish.

Virtual Reality Time, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Friday, March 17. Come dis-

cover a whole new world in a virtual environment using the Oculus gaming system. This program will be happening for the next six weeks and is open to both adults and teens.

Teen Events Mindfulness Club, 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 15. Are you looking for a way to manage stress, get better sleep and be healthier? Do you want to create and decorate your own mindfulness journal? Participants will learn basic tools to help live with intention as well as how to avoid technology overload.

Youth Events

Baby and toddler time is canceled March 7 and 14. Play toys

will still be available for families to use during the regularly scheduled times; however, no programming will take place. Preschool story time, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 15. Bring your children for a fun time of age appropriate stories, games, crafts and play. LEGO builders, ages 5-12, 5 p.m. Monday, March 13, for freestyle LEGO creation. LEGOs are provided — just drop in and join the fun. For more information about any library events, please call the North Webster library at (574) 834-7122, visit nwcpl.org or click onto the library’s Facebook page.

Boondocks ‘The Home Of Peterson’s Fish’ coming soon to South Shore Village

Boondocks “The Home of Peterson’s Fish” is elated to announce the new partnership with South Shore Village to become the first venue at the upcoming property/ development.

“After meeting with Jeff Dyson and Nate Scherer it was immediately clear that we all have one main driven goal in mind. We all want to put the community at the center of all we do!” said Travis Davidson, owner of Boondocks.

When the Davidson Family purchased Peterson’s Fish in January of 2021, the primary goal wasn’t to “just be another dining option,” but rather, a fun and friendly meeting place. With this partnership, Boondocks can now service both dining and bar customers in a relaxed environment. “We want anyone that visits our establishment to feel comfortable and get the dining experience they deserve.”

“Whether you enjoy our normal dining experience, a more intimate bar experience, or an outdoor dining experience, this new facility will allow us to serve you! Along with all the great dining options, we now get to be of service to the community in our fully functional outdoor pavilion.” Davidson said. “We couldn’t be more excited for the future of our family, our community, South Shore Village and Boondocks!”

According to Dyson, “Boondocks is the perfect fit for the new restaurant at South Shore Village. The staff is amazing and make you feel welcome when you walk in the door. We’re excited to see all the upcoming events and activities Boondocks has planned for this spring and summer.”

The sky’s the limit in providing adult, child, and family friendly events at South Shore Village. Already planned for this upcoming spring and summer are concerts, fundraisers, and vehicle-meets with many more activities to come. To see the events calendar, please visit southshorevillage.com.

Morris Stewart

Morris Stewart, 88, Syracuse, died Sunday, March 5, 2023, at Grace Village in Winona Lake.

Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse.

Dean Mast

Dean Mast, 84, Cromwell, died Monday, March 6, 2023, at The Waters of Syracuse.

Arrangements are currently pending at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse.

Judy Clutter

Judy Clutter, 80, Venice, Fla., formerly of North Webster, died Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at the Venice Hospice Home.

Arrangements are currently pending at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse.

Syracuse Public Library —

Nancy Hann

Nancy Hann, 87, Syracuse, died Monday, March 6, 2023.

Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse.

Births

Elijah Michael Robert Scott Lenczewski

Brandon and Katrina Lenczewski, Syracuse, are the parents of a son, Elijah Michael Robert Scott, born at 3:25 p.m. Feb. 28, 2023, at Goshen Hospital. He weighed 7 pounds, 0.1 ounces, and was 19 inches long.

Colson Lawrence Troyer Timothy J. and Mary A. Troyer, Cromwell, are the parents of a son, Colson Lawrence, born at 8:28 p.m. March 5, 2023, at Goshen Hospital. He weighed 6 pounds, 15.9 ounces, and was 21 inches long.

Leprechauns are loose at the library

Leprechauns have reappeared in the Syracuse Public Library, and they are causing some mischief.

To restore order, the library is again seeking the help of children and their families to build leprechaun traps and rehome these mischievous critters.

Build the traps at 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, March 16, in the library’s downstairs meeting room. The library will provide all the necessary supplies and will serve snacks.

The children’s department will also hold LEGO Club at 4 p.m.

Monday, March 13, and homeschool class and story time at 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday, March 15. The homeschool class will learn about the history of Saint Patrick’s Day.

Create An Easter Wreath

Join Shelly Krueger for a spe-

Milford Public Library — Spring activity packets available

The annual adult reading program is going strong. This year’s theme is “All Together Now.”

Just sign up at the adult circulation desk and enter a weekly drawing for each book you read or audiobook you listen to. Anyone 18 or older can join the program. They have 63 adults participating so far.

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 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.

Spring Activity Packets

Thanks to a generous donation from Leon Newman, the library has spring activity packets available April 3-8. These packets contain craft kits and a sweet treat. All children ages preschool to 17

years old may request a spring activity packet at either circulation desk. The packets are given out on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to ask for yours when you are checking out.

Shamrock Scavenger Hunt

March 1-31, the library is going on a Shamrock Scavenger Hunt. Certain material will be designated “shamrock” and if you are the lucky person checking that item out, you win a prize. Anyone who checks out materials during March can win. Do you feel lucky?

Library users are all lucky, so come in and check out lots of good books and DVDs during March.

Spring Story Time

Spring Story Time will begin Wednesday, April 5. Registration begins March 27.

cial beaded Easter wreath project at 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 14, in the downstairs meeting room. This program is limited to 12 people, with only one wreath per family. A $3 fee is required at sign-up to help cover the cost of materials.

Sign up at the upstairs circulation desk, and join the Pinterest craze for beaded wreaths.

Scam Time On Pi Day

Enjoy a slice of old-fashioned pie while learning about some of the latest scams to watch for with Gregg Palmer of Humana. Join this informative and tasty program at 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 14, in the downstairs meeting room.

YA Board Game Night

Young adults, ages 16-25, are invited to a board game night at the Syracuse Public Library from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, March 15, in the upstairs Rosalyn Jones Room. The group will play party favorite “Scattergories” during its March meeting. The game challenges players to come up with items fast and score points by coming up with items that nobody else does. For information, contact Amber Weber at aweber@syracuse.lib. in.us. Young Adult Board Game Night will move to 6-7:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month, starting in April.

‘Let’s ‘Meat’’ theme for annual county extension meeting

“Let’s ‘Meat’” is the theme for the 2023 Kosciusko County Extension annual meeting. This year’s event will be at 6 p.m. Monday, March 27, at the Maple Leaf Farms corporate office, 101 E. West Church St., Leesburg.

The evening will include food, fellowship, extension news, announcement of the Extension All Starts and “Heart of 4-H” recognition.

Deb Treesh, executive director of “Hoosiers Feeding The Hungry” is the guest speaker. Learn how “Hoosiers” is bringing protein to Indiana tables and how Kosciusko County 4-H’ers contribute.

Treesh is a native of Fort Wayne and a graduate of Wayne High School. She and her husband, Doug, have four children and reside in Corunna.

As executive director, Treesh develops and implements budgets, works closely with the board of directors, serves as public relations director and leads in all daily operations. She has also served on the board of directors for the Community Harvest Food Bank for the past 17 years.

Treesh began building a foundation nonprofit experience in 2005, serving as the lead volunteer for

Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry.

Under her management, Indiana became the highest ranking chapter for growth and productivity in the United States. She built on this foundation to begin a new venture.

The new undertaking began with a donation to the Community Harvest Food Bank. Treesh learned meat donations were greatly needed and the most difficult to procure.

In 2011, the mission to provide nutritious meat to Indiana’s families was set in motion. Hoosiers

Feeding the Hungry literally began within the walls of the Treesh home.

Her vision to create a healthier Indiana started with hard work and determination, one employee and 16 meat processors that covered a nine-county territory. Eleven years later, there are four employees, an office in Garrett, and 88 meat processors located throughout the state of Indiana that cover a 58-county territory.

Hoosiers Feeding the Hungry uses local resources, local people and local services to provide meat to hunger relief agencies throughout Indiana. In the first year, most donations were venison. With time,

Kosciusko County seeks input on parks master plan

The Kosciusko County Parks & Recreation Board has been working on developing its first fiveyear park master plan to help establish a vision and priorities to guide the establishment of a county parks and recreation system.

The plan seeks to address the needs of residents and visitors by providing access to quality parks and recreational amenities. The draft Kosciusko County Parks Master Plan is now ready for public review.

Now through April 6, the Kosciusko County Parks & Recreation Board needs to hear your input on the action strategies you

would like to see started in the next five years. There are multiple opportunities for you to share your input that includes filling out the public review form at tiny.

cc/ReviewKosciuskoParksPlan

(the link address is case sensitive) and visiting one of the three public open houses. The Kosciusko County Parks and Recreation Board and Steering Committee will host three public open houses from 5-7 p.m. on:

• Tuesday, March 14, at the North Webster Community Center, North Webster.

• Thursday, March 16, at the Bell Memorial Public Library, Mentone.

• Tuesday, March 28, at the Warsaw Community Public Library, Warsaw.

“It’s critical for the county parks and recreation board to gain public input on our five-year parks master plan to ensure that Kosciusko County residents’ priorities are being heard and incorporated,” said parks and recreation board member Mike Cusick.

“We encourage everyone to attend one of the upcoming public open houses or share your input by filling out the public review form to make sure the plan is representative of the interests and needs of the community.”

The draft plan is available for electronic review at kcgov.com/department/board. php?structureid=235. Hard copies of the draft plan and the public review form are available at any of the local public libraries and municipal clerk offices in the county.

The Kosciusko County Parks & Recreation Board kicked off the planning process in September 2022 and was built upon community engagement efforts to guide the establishment of a vision and mission for the board, the major challenges and gaps and priorities to guide implementation ef-

forts over the next five years. Engagement efforts so far have included holding monthly project meetings that were open for public attendance, conducting stakeholder interviews and issuing a public input survey that was available as an online and paper survey from Nov. 30, 2022, to Jan. 11, 2023, and received responses from 500 county residents.

If you need assistance filling out the public review form or other questions related to the county’s parks master plan, please contact Donny Ritsema with MACOG at dritsema@macog.com or (574) 287-1829, ext. 503.

other food animal donations grew from 14,947 pounds to a record 202,574 pounds. Five hundred agencies now receive an average of 44,790 pounds of venison and 108,857 pounds of food animal meat each year.

Over a 10-year span, donations have provided over 6,154,759 high protein meals to needy families. Its mission is “making a positive impact on the quality of life for Hoosiers by providing nutritious meat (protein) to hunger relief agencies within Indiana ... One Pound at a Time.”

The agency’s vision is to “ensure all Hoosier have access to good quality, nutritious meat (protein) — creating a stronger, healthier Indiana.”

The cost is $10 per person, payable at the door. Reservations need to be made by Wednesday, March 22, by calling (574) 372-2340.

Morton

Kerry Lee Morton, 54, 5099

grams

Kosciusko County

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

Accidents

9:02 p.m. Friday, March 3, East CR 450N, east of North Third Place, North Webster. Driver: Ean T. Coburn, 17, Marston Drive, Fort Wayne. Coburn’s vehicle left the roadway due to icy road conditions and struck a tree.

Passengers Abrielle Luttrell and Ruben Vela were transported for complaints of back and knee pain.

Damage up to $10,000.

6:24 p.m. Friday, March 3, West CR 900N, east of North CR 625W, Milford. Driver: Sean R. Ulrich, 28, Laporte Avenue, South Bend. Ulrich struck a pole with his vehicle due to icy road conditions.

Damage up to $5,000.

6:10 p.m. Friday, March 3, North SR 13, north of EMS B7 Lane, North Webster. Drivers: Christopher W. Nance, 47, West Tiddle Wink Trail, Kimmell; and Anthony J. Meek, 46, East Fox Run Drive, Syracuse. Nance’s vehicle crossed the center line due to icy road conditions and collided head-on with Meek’s vehicle.

Damage up to $50,000.

5:17 p.m. Friday, March 3, North SR 19, north of West Hepton Road, Nappanee. Driver: David L. Sisk, 47, North CR 600W, Leesburg. Sisk couldn’t see due a blast of snow. His vehicle went off the roadway and hit a pole. Damage up to $10,000.

4:47 p.m. Friday, March 3, West CR 900N, west of North CR 300W, Milford. Driver: Scott A. Brown, 60, North Creek Bend Lane, Milford. Brown’s vehicle went off the road due to road conditions and hit a post and pole. Damage up to $10,000.

3:35 p.m. Friday, March 3, West CR 1250N, west of North CR 60W, Milford. Driver: Freddie A. Yoder, 40, West CR 1250N, Milford. Yoder’s vehicle struck a fence due to icy road conditions. Damage up to $2,500.

North Webster

Officers with the North Webster Police Department investigated the following accident and

incident:

Accident

6:09 p.m. Friday, March 3, North SR 13, north of East CR 400N, Leesburg. Drivers: Devon A. Bailey, 31, North CR 825E, North Webster; and Archie C. Wills, 20, Chambray Drive, Indianapolis. Bailey’s vehicle went over the center line due to road conditions, and his vehicle and Wills’ collided. Wills complained of foot pain. Bailey said he had no insurance and had just purchased his vehicle. Damage up to $50,000. Incident

8:55 a.m. Friday, March 3, 700 block South Main Street, North Webster. Robert W. Haller reported a vehicle accident in which a truck hit a parked trailer.

Syracuse

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

Accidents

North Webster; and Johnathan A. Bradley, 27, North Union Street, Warsaw. Jackson’s vehicle hit the back of Starzyk’s vehicle, causing Starzyk’s vehicle to hit the back of Bradley’s vehicle. Damage up to $5,000.

12:39 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28, North SR 15 and Enterprise Drive, Warsaw. Drivers: Lili A. Dailey, 52, Belmont Drive, Warsaw; Kurt A. Eberhardt, 65, East Kenway Drive, Warsaw; and Broc P. Fraley, 18, East CR 700N, Leesburg. Dailey’s vehicle hit the back of Eberhardt’s, causing his vehicle to hit the back of Fraley’s. Damage up to $10,000.

Jail Bookings

Kosciusko County

The following people were booked in Kosciusko County Jail:

March 6 — Sherry Venus Blankenbeckler, 49, 312 Crystal Flash Road, North Webster, booked for possession of methamphetamine and possession of paraphernalia. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

March 6 — Jefrey Wayne Reece, 45, 230 S. East St., North Webster, booked for false informing, possession of methamphetamine, criminal trespass and probation violation-felony. Bond: $11,000 surety and cash.

March 6 — Dustin Scott Jansma, 32, 5440 N. 450E, Leesburg, booked on a probation violation. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

E. Armstrong Road, Leesburg, is charged with possession of methamphetamine, a level 3 felony; resisting law enforcement, a level 6 felony; possession of marijuana, a class B misdemeanor; and possession of marijuana, a class A misdemeanor.

On Thursday, March 2, an Indiana State Police trooper was in the area of North Webster when he saw a Chevrolet Trailblazer with an expired registration plate. Additionally, the vehicle’s license plate

Jenna Renee Heiman, 38, 11194 N. Honeycomb Lane, Cromwell, was charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 4 felony. She was also charged with possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony, in a second case. Four additional criminal charges were all dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Heiman was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court Monday, March 6.

For dealing methamphetamine, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Heiman to three years in the Indiana Department of Corrections. She also received a one-year sentence at the Kosciusko County Jail for methamphetamine possession, with the

was false and fictitious, as the plate returned to a Dodge Charger. According to court documents, the trooper attempted to pull the Trailblazer over and its driver fled the scene on foot but was later apprehended. The driver was identified as Morton, who said he ran from the trooper because he had bad run-ins with the police in

entirety of the sentence suspended on probation. Both counts will be served consecutively.

In total, Heiman received a fouryear sentence, with three years executed and one year suspended on probation.

Reed said the DOC commitment will be suspended if Heiman participates in either the Kosciusko County work release or community corrections programs; however, he said the first two years of Heiman’s executed sentence to be served in work release.

the past.

Morton also said he recently purchased the Trailblazer and had not switched its registration plate. A responding Nappanee Police officer noticed meth in Morton’s vehicle. Upon searching Morton’s person, officers found 0.3 grams of meth. In Morton’s vehicle, officers found 13.7 grams of meth, 1.2 grams of marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.

Morton was previously convicted of conspiracy to deal cocaine in Kosciusko County in 1996.

Morton was booked in the Kosciusko County Jail Thursday, March 2.

Heiman must pay $80 in restitution to the NET43 Drug Task Force. She will also report to KCJ Friday, March 10, for execution of her sentence.

At sentencing, Defense Attorney Seth Tipton said Heiman was extremely amenable to community corrections or probation.

“She made very, very poor decisions as a result of her addiction,” said Tipton.

Sometime in April 2022, NET43 purchased 1.7 grams of meth from Heiman.

On April 12, 2022, a Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office deputy pulled over a speeding vehicle and identified its driver as Heiman. A K9 unit at the scene alerted to drugs in the vehicle and the deputy found a cut straw containing methamphetamine.

March 3 — Faith Ranae Ferguson, 46, 201 E. Greenhaus Drive, No. 55, Syracuse, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated and leaving the scene of a crash — property damage. Bond: $700 cash.

March 3 — Roman Alvaro Torres, 43, 9837 E. Rock A Bye Road, Cromwell, booked for failure to appear. No bond listed.

4:36 p.m.

Friday, March 3, North SR 15, north of West Plum Street, Leesburg. Drivers: Jessica R. Asire, 32, Huffman Street, Winona Lake; Christopher S. Fulk, 33, Kinwood Drive, Milford; and Jason D. Ellinger, 47, East Portside Drive, Warsaw. Asire’s northbound vehicle slid into oncoming traffic, colliding with Fulk and Ellinger’s southbound vehicles.

Damage up to $25,000.

3:40 p.m.

Friday, March 3, East CR 1000N, east of North SR

13, Syracuse. Driver: Duran L. Griffith, 30, East Haiden Drive, Syracuse. Griffith struck a road sign with his vehicle due to icy road conditions. Damage up to $5,000.

6:42 a.m.

Friday, March 3, North CR 100E, south of East

Levi Lee Road, Warsaw. Driver: Catherine M. Coy, 58, East Maple Grove, Syracuse. Coy’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage up to $5,000.

7:04 a.m.

Monday, Feb. 27, North CR 300E, north of East CR 1100N, Syracuse. Drivers: Ralph E. Barkdull, 56, EMS D24 Lane, Syracuse; and Eriberto J. Patino, 35, North Hiawatha Drive, Syracuse. Barkdull’s vehicle drove over heavy water, which pushed his vehicle into Patino’s path of travel. Damage up to $10,000.

10:26 a.m.

Sunday, Feb. 26, West CR 700N, east of North CR 100W, Leesburg. Driver: Zachary Meck, 34, West CR 700N, Leesburg. Meck’s vehicle left the roadway and hit a tree head-on. Meck was taken to Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital for facial and abdominal pain. Damage up to $10,000.

Incidents

5:48 p.m. Friday, March 3, SR 13, north of East Chicago Street, Syracuse. Driver: Faith R. Ferguson, 46, East Greenhaus Drive, Syracuse. Ferguson’s vehicle first struck a light pole with her vehicle, leaving the scene. Shortly after that her vehicle struck a parked Dodge Durango resgistered to Alex M. Ramirez, Wst Boston Street, Syracuse, parked on West Main Street, east of North Dolan Drive. Damage up to $50,000 in the first accident; up to $10,000 in the second accident. She was arrested for driving while intoxicated and leaving the scene of a property damage accident.

4:29 p.m. Friday, March 3, North CR 500E, south of East CR 900N, Syracuse. Driver: Matheus V. Guimaraes De Oliveira, 27, Shady Lane, Warsaw. Oliveira struck a tree with his vehicle due to icy road conditions. Damage up to $5,000.

Incident

1:57 p.m. Wednesday, March 1, 100 block East Innovation Boulevard. Syracuse. Alan R. Tehan, Syracuse, reported 30 gallons of gasoline were stolen from his business the night of Monday Feb. 27. This has been an ongoing issue.

Arrests

4:20 a.m. Sunday, March 5, at East CR 1400N and North CR 560E, Syracuse. Johnathon Boyd Quick, 28, 1908 Osolo Road, No. 113, Elkhart was arrested for driving while suspended with prior. Police were called to a North Main Street location to investigate a domestic dispute report. The individuals involved had left the scene, but police were given a description. When police located the vehicle a traffic stop was initiated and police discovered Quick did not have a valid driver’s license.

March 2 — Ashton Martin Stookey, 21, 5203 N. Sawgrass Lane, Leesburg, booked for possession of marijuana/hash oil/hashish and possession of paraphernalia. Bond: $600 cash.

March 2 — Dustin James Rottger, 25, 10018 N. 400E, Syracuse, booked for failure to appear — infraction.

Bond: $1,000 cash.

March 1 — Billy Taylor Schroll, 30, 8268 E. Wade Lane, North Webster, booked for two counts of invasion of privacy. Bond: $3,000 cash.

Elkhart County

The following people were booked in Elkhart County Jail:

Feb. 27 — Efrain Parra-Solis, 47, 202 E. Smith St., Milford, booked for battery-bodily injury. No bond listed.

Feb. 26 — Jena M. Jordan, 25, 4455 N. Maple Way, Leesburg, booked for two counts of operating a vehicle while intoxicated-endangerment, operating a vehicle while intoxicated — 0.08 or more, possession of marijuana, possession of a controlled substance and possession of paraphernalia. No bond listed.

Feb. 24 — Johnathan Aza, 19, 2851 N. 1000W, Cromwell, booked for unlawful carrying of a handgun. No bond listed.

Noble County

The following people were booked in Noble County Jail:

Feb. 28 — Jamie M. Wolfe, 43, 2510 N. 800W, Cromwell, booked on a warrant. No bond.

Feb. 27 — Kirk A. Stout, 71, 9355 W. 450N, Cromwell, booked for operating a vehicle with an ACE of 0.15 or more and operating a vehicle while intoxicated-endangerment.

Bond: $5,000.

Voucher schools and driving privilege cards for those in the U.S. illegally were a few of the topics discussed during the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce’s virtual legislative update on Friday, March 3.

State Sen. Ryan Mishler and State Rep. Craig Snow were the lawmakers who participated. They shared information on some of their own legislation before answering submitted questions.

One of those regarded voucher schools, which are private schools that receive funds from the state to pay for students to attend them.

Lawmakers have discussed further expanding eligibility for that program.

Snow noted the issue could be “contentious.” He mentioned his wife had been a teacher, and the couple had sent their three children to public schools.

“I think that I would want to have the choice to send my child no matter where they want to go,” said Snow, mentioning one of his kids probably should have gone to a different school.

“I understand in a way it does take money from public schools, but I also believe the parent needs to be able to have that choice to do what they feel is best for their children, and so I’m kind of in line with that money needs to follow the child,” he added.

Snow did say he was surprised how typical public schools face more government accountability than other schools getting public funding. He said he’d consider taking away strict regulations from public schools that they’d like to see gone.

voucher school.

He said Friday he thought the state currently had “a healthy mix” of different schools.

Mishler added the eligibility for voucher schools was something he was concerned about. When the state first gave out voucher money, it was aimed at lower-income households, but that’s changed, he said.

He noted paying for more kids to attend voucher schools would get expensive for the state.

Mishler also talked about accountability with voucher schools, referencing some of what he talked about in his letter to his district.

Though his son doesn’t receive a voucher to attend school, he does go to an institution that accepts them for other students. Mishler said he and other parents of other students there “discovered the hard way” about accountability at the school.

“So what I’m trying to find … is how do we have accountability for protections for these kids and parents without interfering with their teaching or their faith-based teaching or their beliefs?” Mishler said.

He said he’d spoken with Lakeland Christian Academy of Winona Lake’s Superintendent Joe Elrod earlier on the topic.

“By no way is the Senate trying to take away vouchers,” he noted, adding that had seen students thrive by getting vouchers to attend his son’s school.

Driving Privilege Cards

Mishler also responded to ques-

tions regarding driving privilege cards.

Senate Bill 248, which died in committee, would have allowed the cards which would grant driving privileges to those who weren’t legal residents of the U.S.

The Warsaw City Council had recently come out in support of the measure. Mishler said some people in his caucus were “nervous about this bill.”

“So we took it in for a caucus discussion. It was very split, and so it was a caucus decision not to move the bill,” said Mishler. “The two biggest things seemed to be, No. 1, voting. Even though (the cards would be) for driving only … some just weren’t convinced that wouldn’t lead to voting.”

The other concern related to income taxes. The cards were meant for those who pay them, but Mishler said there was concern those who’d qualify for them didn’t actually file tax returns, but just had money withdrawn from their paychecks.

He said he’d spoken with State Sen. Blake Doriot, who co-authored the bill.

“He did a really good job on the bill, but he just has some more work to do to kind of help people get over their concerns,” said Mishler. He noted constituents in his district were “split” on the issue as well.

Mishler said he believed Doriot would take up the issue again.

2:04 a.m.

Whitley County

The following person was booked in Whitley County Jail:

1:28 p.m.

Sunday, March 5, 5000 block of North CR 450E, Leesburg. Gary Hamby reported the theft of a golf cart. Loss of $6,000.

11:04 a.m.

Wednesday, March

1, 7200 block North SR 13, North

Webster. Patricia L. Crittendon reported the theft of a firearm. Value: $300.

Milford

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

Saturday, March 4, 300 block West Boston Street, Syracuse. Faith R. Ferguson, 46, East Greenhaus Drive, Syracuse, was arrested for operating a vehicle while intoxicated and leaving the scene of a property damage accident.

Warsaw

Officers with the Warsaw Police Department investigated the following accidents:

Accidents

He said the Indiana General Assembly did “need to work on … what are the accountability measures that need to be put on those voucher dollars and what does that look like?”

Mishler had earlier published a letter to his Senate District 9, sharing his experience with one

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Friday, March 3, South Main Street, south of West Section Street, Driver: Gavin

C. Hunziker, 19, North Village Drive, Leesburg. Hunziker’s vehicle slid off the road and into a tree. Damage up to $50,000.

3:13 a.m. Sunday, March 5, North Maple Avenue and East Center Street, Warsaw. Driver: Zackery A. Smith, 31, North Denzel Drive, Syracuse. Smith struck landscaping blocks with his vehicle. Damage up to $5,000.

7:31 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28, East Center Street and U.S. 30, Warsaw. Drivers: Jolene M. Jackson, 18, North Beechwood Street, Warsaw; Elizabeth M. Starzyk, 18, West Crystal Flash Road,

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Effort to move Indiana to partisan school board elections dies in the house

A bill that would have let Hoosier communities decide if local school board elections should be partisan died in the Indiana House after lawmakers failed to vote on the measure by Monday, Feb. 27.

That means school board races will stay non-partisan — at least for now. Language from the bill could still crop up in others before the end of the current legislative session.

House Bill 1428, authored by Rep. J.D. Prescott, R-Union City, sought to add political party identifications to what are now nonpartisan school board elections throughout the state. The legislation was the first to extend “local control” over the issue.

Monday was the deadline for House bills to pass out of the chamber. Prescott did not call the bill for a full chamber vote, however, likely indicating a lack of support from the House Republican caucus.

GOP House Speaker Todd Huston expressed support for optional partisan school board races earlier this month, but noted that members of his caucus are “all across the spectrum” on Prescott’s proposal — “This is one of those bills that doesn’t split along party lines.”

Ultimately, Republican lawmakers could not find consensus over whether school board candidates should have to be nominated via party primaries or only be listed by political party on the November general election ballot.

“It’s hard to find that sweet spot,” Huston said. “We didn’t quite get it this year.”

Multiple other versions of the bill circulated through the Indiana Statehouse this year and last, to no avail.

A separate proposal that died earlier in the current session would have instead created a blanket requirement for school board candidates to identify as a Republican, Democrat or Independent.

Currently, Indiana is among 41 states where local school board elections are held without any party identification on the ballot for candidates.

The move for partisan school boards bubbled up after local fights over COVID-19 protocols, race issues and book bans.

Latest version of the bill

Supporters of the bill have maintained that forcing school board candidates to declare a party will provide greater transparency for voters.

Democrats and representatives from multiple education groups opposed the bill, however, arguing that such steps would needlessly further inject politics into local school decisions.

The latest version of the bill

would have given Hoosier communities two options to trigger a referendum vote.

One provision said sitting school board members could decide on their own to vote for their seats to become partisan. But local voters would still have gotten the final say.

Another option would have used a petition process requiring signatures of 500 voters or 5% of voters in the district, whichever is lesser. A successful petition would put the question on the ballot.

But locals also had the option to do nothing at all, meaning school board elections in a particular district would remain nonpartisan. That was the default option laid out in the bill.

Updated language in the bill clarified that Libertarians and other third-party candidates could run, as long as they declare their party affiliation.

Voters would also have been required to choose, individually, school board members on ballots — a straight-ticket option wouldn’t be available.

Whether through a school board vote or voter-led public question, school board candidates would have had to run in partisan primaries in order to be nominated for the general election, or forgo a primary altogether but have to use a partisan label in the general election.

To claim a party, school board candidates further must have voted that way in the last two primaries in which that person voted.

Candidates for school board additionally could not work for that school corporation, according to the bill.

A school board or community would have been forced to wait 10 years between any public questions if they later changed their minds and wanted to opt-out of partisan school board races.

Support shown for Kosciusko County classic arts programs

Music, dancing, charcuterie food, coffee, beer and wine plus pie were the main focus of an evening of Java, Jive & Pie, to benefit the Classic Arts Programs in Kosciusko County. Everyone was welcomed to “Duke’s Place,” for the evening where everyone laughed with friends and felt the joy of the evening.

A group of nearly 150 gathered at The Roost Banquet Facility at Crazy Egg Cafe and Coffee Bar, Warsaw, Saturday evening, Feb. 25.

Various genre of music was played by The Lake City Jazz group, intermittent with vocal selections by the Classic Arts

Two women arrested in North Webster on drug charges

Stacie Dawn Herr, 44, Fort Wayne and Brittany Michelle Frain aka Brittany Michelle Nelson, 36 Lebanon were arrested in North Webster, Thursday, March 2, on drug charges.

Herr is charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 2 felony; possession of methamphetamine, a level 4 felony; unlawful possession of a syringe, a level 6 felony; possession of marijuana, a class B misdemeanor; possession of paraphernalia, a class C misdemeanor; and possession of marijuana, a class A misdemeanor.

Frain is charged with possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of a syringe, both level 6 felonies.

On Thursday, March 2, an In-

diana State Police trooper pulled a speeding vehicle over in North Webster. The trooper identified the vehicle’s driver as Herr and a passenger as Frain. A K9 unit at the scene alerted to drugs inside the vehicle.

According to court documents, inside the vehicle, officers found 15.4 grams of meth, 0.8 grams of marijuana, a syringe, drug paraphernalia, and empty plastic bags commonly used for drug distribution.

Herr said she obtained the meth from a location in Syracuse.

Frain said when she got into Herr’s vehicle, she saw a plastic bag containing white residue on the dashboard and placed the bag inside her purse.

At the time of this incident, Frain had an active criminal case for meth possession in Noble

County. She also has prior convictions for meth possession, paraphernalia possession, and failure to return to lawful detention.

Herr was previously convicted of meth possession in Whitley County in March 2022.

Herr and Frain were both booked in the Kosciusko County Jail Thursday, March 2.

Jazz Vocal Ensemble, including solos. A few songs combined both groups.

Songs included “Swinging on a Star” Java Jive” “Duke’s Place” “When I Fall in Love,” “Moonlight in Vermont,” “How Sweet it is to be Loved by You.”

Members of the Lake City Jazz include Ben Essick, Rod Noftsger, Danny Dean, Fred Feipel, Ryan Stringer and Jack Kinney. The Classic Arts Jazz Vocal Ensemble included, Kirt Cass, Angel Hamilton, Mike Lewis, Steve Meulink, Angela Reichelt, Bekah Rowe, Lori Widman, Ardis Faber and Jo Matthews.

Rebecca Elder and Jerry Hudson were among the first to check over the silent auction items.

Ben Essic, CAP vice president, Judie Meulink, youth chorale artistic director, Ardis Faber, community chorale artistic director and Lori Widman, CAP president, addressed the audience throughout the evening during “intermissions” for the performers. Each explained a little about the organization and programs available.

Meulink spoke of the three different youth choirs available. Programs started in the fall and a finale performance at the end of March.

Faber, noted singing is “bigger than all of us. … the value of singing goes beyond music

itself.” She likened it to a giant oak that “rises and spreads its branches.”

Upcoming events were also noted, like the Choral Gems & Favorites March 26. This event will feature the Classic Arts Programs Community Chorale and Youth Chorale, Bremen Children’s Chorus, Warsaw Community High School Select Chorale, Lancer Chorus and Symphony of the Lakes. The music will include gospel, spiritual and more.

Throughout the evening 24 silent auction items were available for guests to place their bids. the items ranged from a garbage disposal, 100 pounds of beef, gift certificates, a necklace, massage, NCCAA tournament passes, flute performance, performances from the Jazz Ensemble and many more.

This was the second year for the Java, Jive & Pie event. Ac-

cording to Widman, last year’s event was attended by 75 people, so they knew a larger venue was needed for this year. In addition to the larger venue, the silent auction, beer and wine cash bar was added.

The Classic Arts Programs is a collaboration of musicians and singers from various backgrounds who organize culturallyrich music experiences for people of all walks of life in Kosciusko County. The organization was established in 1984. It’s mission statement is to enjance cultural and spiritual life in the Kosciusko County area through the quality performance of diverse choral works, enabling singers of all ages to grow musically and personally through the rehearsal process and other activities. To learn more about Classic Arts Programs visit classicartsprograms.com.

Wawasee track and field kicks off 2023 season

The Wawasee boys and girls track and field teams are practicing in anticipation of their first meet of the season.

Both teams will participate in the Indiana Wesleyan University Hoosier Indoor Qualifier 10 a.m. Saturday, March 11, at Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion.

The teams were practicing Monday on the outdoor track in not so ideal weather conditions. The student athletes are excited for the season to kick off and were giving it their all while practicing in the cold and damp weather.

Chase Pinion will start his first year as head coach of the boys track and field team.

“The returners this year have been showing a lot of dedication in

practices. They are willing to learn and try new things. They desire to improve and that attitude definitely spreads into the underclassmen.

They’re fun to be around and coach.

If you spend any time around them at all you just can’t help but want to see them succeed,” said Pinion.

Pinion expanded on some of the challenges he is facing as a new coach.

“Each new season brings its fair share of challenges to overcome.

Things like getting students to come out and building team culture. However, being my first year at Wawasee and teaching in the elementary setting, my biggest obstacle was attempting to meet high school athletes and get some excitement going about the upcoming track and field season.

“Meeting with fall and winter sports coaches and getting a chance to chat with their teams seemed to help get the ball rolling. Preseason

is where I really noticed a lot of growth. Each week it seemed like more and more were getting excited to give track and field a shot. This team is young but hard working. They are hungry for success and it’s really fun to train a group of guys like that,” he added.

He mentioned his excitement for the freshmen and newcomers on this year’s team.

“We have a large freshman class and they will need to be ready to step up in different events right away. There are also a number of ‘rookies,’ meaning new to track but not freshmen. I’ve been impressed with that group so far. They are strong and have some real ability. Next is the fun part of figuring out which events suit them best,” he said.

“This season I’m most excited about the number of guys we were able to get out. I love that almost all of them are multi-sport athletes using track and field as a way to improve in their other sports. That shows just how much these boys want to be successful. We are attempting to start a lot of new team culture type of traditions, and so far they are accepting of that and having fun with it.

“No matter the outcome of meets this year, we will improve as athletes, teammates and young men,” said Pinion.

Wawasee girls track and field head coach Stefani Wuthrich spoke about returning letter winners and

Treatment

newcomers.

“We have many letter winners returning. In the sprints, we have Isabel Schwartz and Kaydence Shepherd returning. Both girls are going to be strong runners for us. In the throws we have Emma Yoder returning. She was our MVP last year, placing third in the state discus competition, so I have high expectations for her this year,” she said.

Wuthrich added, “Like most schools in northern Indiana, our biggest obstacle going into the season is lack of practice time outside because of weather. We have so many new faces on the team this year. I am happy for the growth we have had.

Mia Hodgson is a freshman distance

runner who had a successful crosscountry season, so I’m excited to see her on the track.

“I’m excited for the growth of the team. We have already made a lot of positive changes in the program and I’m excited to see the outcome of those changes,” she said.

Wawasee Community Summer League registration

The Wawasee Community Summer League registration is now open for the upcoming season.

The registration cost for T-ball and Machine Pitch league participants is $45 per player. The registration cost for Minor and Major league softball/baseball participants is $60 per player. The registration cost for the boys 14U baseball league is $135 per player.

Registered players will receive a game jersey and hat. Seven-yearold girls can play either Minors softball or Machine Pitch.

The registration deadline for the boys and girls Minor, Major and 14U softball/baseball leagues is Monday, March 20. Coaches will contact teams during the second week of April. Opening day is scheduled for Saturday, April 29.

The registration deadline for TBall and Machine Pitch leagues is Monday, April 17. Coaches will contact teams during the second week of May. Opening day is scheduled for Wednesday, May 31.

Any adult/parent interested in coaching will be required to complete a background check by visiting the WCSL website. The league is looking for people to help with umpiring and field prep before games throughout the season.

Any local business interested in sponsoring the league can visit the

WCSL website and/or email wawaseesummerleague@gmail.com for more information.

“This season, the new Schrock location on Kern Road is ready and we will hold our opening day on Saturday, April 29, at the park. We haven’t decided whether games start in the morning or afternoon, but last season we began a new tradition and will have an opening day parade with the players, police officers, fire, EMS and Syracuse first responders,”said Registration and Sponsor Coordinator Jamie Beer.

“The parade will begin at Syracuse Elementary and continue down Kern Road to the new location and all available players will participate,” Players can register online at wawaseesummerleague.org or lakelandyouthcenter.com. Registration forms will be given to students at their prospective schools. Forms can also be printed directly from the website.

Registration forms can be mailed with payment to: WCSL, P.O. Box 653, Syracuse, IN 46567. Forms can also be dropped with payment at The Lakeland Youth Center dropbox located at 101 W. Chicago St., Syracuse, IN 46567. For more information, email wawaseesummerleague@gmail. com.

Community Corner

Hochstetler loves her job at North Webster Elementary

For the past five years, Felicia Hochstetler has been making a difference in the educational lives of dozens of students at North Webster Elementary School.

Hochstetler serves as a special education paraprofessional at the school, working with special needs students in kindergarten through fifth grade to help ensure they are not left behind in the academic process.

With a teaching degree in middle school mathematics, Hochstetler took the job as a way to get her foot in the door at the school. Now, she’s discovered a passion for the department and what she is doing to help her students progress. Before coming to North Webster, Hochstetler also spent time working with the special education program in Nappanee with Wa-Nee schools.

program in North Webster. All the programs here are amazing. It’s a good school; they are always doing something positive for the kids.”

In fact, Hochsestler’s youngest child, Angel, is a fourth grader at NES. She also has two adult children, Ramon and Amari, both of whom graduated from Wawasee High School.

PROFILE

When an opportunity arose last summer in the mathematics department at Wawasee Middle School, Hochstetler withdrew her name from consideration, choosing to stay at the elementary. She said she would like to stay in North Webster until Angel goes to the middle school, at which time she’ll take a look at the opportunities available, including those in the special education department at the next level.

In her role, Hochstetler sits with the children in the main classroom to hear the lesson offered by the teacher. She then takes her students back to the special education classroom to work with them in small groups to redirect them to complete the lesson at their own individual paces and help keep them on task.

Hochstetler said NES currently has 35 kids involved with the special education program. She added that several special needs students transferred in to the school this year from other schools and even other school districts, partly because of the high marks the North Webster program received through the statemandated IREAD testing.

“I honestly like what I do in the special education department,” she said. “We have a really good

A native of Elkhart, Hochstetler graduated from the now-consolidated Central High School in 2000. She attended Indiana University for two years before pausing her own education to raise her older children. She returned to complete her college degree through Ivy Tech and Western Governor’s University.

In her free time, Hochstetler loves to travel alongside her husband, Jerry. She admits, however, that her time is seemingly consumed with her work as an educator and parent at NES. She also works part time cleaning the preschool at North Webster United Methodist Church, the church her family attends.

Additionally, she is a volunteer with the AWANA program at the church, working with second and third grade children.

“I try to be involved a lot in the community,” Hochstetler said. “I really like to work with kids, especially one on one.”

Bridge Results

North Webster Bridge Group

The North Webster Bridge Group met Tuesday, Feb. 28, 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 March 13-17

MONDAY — M. Smith

TUESDAY — C. Manning

WEDNESDAY — J. Rowland

THURSDAY — B. Martz

FRIDAY — P. Smith Milford Drivers March 13-17

MONDAY — B. Harkness

TUESDAY — A. & C. Haab

WEDNESDAY — J. & C. Wagoner

THURSDAY — L. Kammerer

FRIDAY — R. & P. Haab

North Webster Drivers March 13-17

MONDAY — J. Parcell

TUESDAY — J. & K. Caskey

WEDNESDAY — A. Renner

THURSDAY — B. Kennedy

FRIDAY — E. Cook

Wawasee High School presents ‘Tuck Everlasting’

Wawasee High School will be presenting “Tuck Everlasting” as its spring musical. The show is directed by Kristin Bonner.

Joining Bonner on the production team are Mindy Coblentz, Adam Moyer, Chris Dykhuisen, Ben Essick and Jeremy Van Lue. Would you want to live forever? Eleven-year-old Winnie Foster longs for a life of adventure beyond her white picket fence in the woods. When she unexpectedly encounters the Tuck Family, she finds more adventures than she could have imagined.

When Winnie learns the magic behind the Tuck’s unending youth, she strives to protect their secret from those who would use their secret for ill-gotten gain. Throughout her adventures, Winnie faces a perplexing dilemma: Return to the life she knows or continue with the Tuck Family on their eternal journey.

“Tuck Everlasting” is an adaptation of Natalie Babbitt’s novel of the same title. The story takes place in Tree Gap, N.H., and follows the adventures of the mysteriously unaging Tuck Family and Winnie Foster.

Throughout their lifetime, the Tucks encounter people who are determined to discover the family’s secret to anti-aging. The Man In The Yellow Suit is the antagonist who permeates Winnie’s and the family’s escapades.

“Tuck Everlasting” is a delightful production that will make you laugh, cry and ponder

the beauty of creating memories of a life well lived. The music score is poignant and altogether lovely. Bring your kids, parents, grandparents, friends and neighbors, because you won’t want to miss it.

Bonner explained, last year the performing arts program had 25 seniors graduate and she didn’t have the number of boys she was used to having to perform. She also wanted to do a dance-heavy show this time around.

“It’s beautiful. It’s the most beautiful story I’ve ever done,” Bonner said. “I listened to the sound track then I read the book. They actually teach the book here in sixth grade.”

In addition to Wawasee High School students performing in the musical, students from the middle schools and Lee Ann Stewart’s Dance School are also participating. “It’s the arts , it’s all intertwined,” Bonner said.

Show dates are 7 p.m. Fridayand Saturday, March 24-25, and 2 p.m. Sunday, March 26, in the Wawasee High School Auditorium. Tickets range from $10-$12.

Patrons may wish to choose the “Adopt an actor” option for $15, which offsets the cost for students who may have financial need. Seating is reserved and online purchasing is recommended at wawaseeperformingarts.ludus.com or at the door if not sold out prior to show night. Ticket price at the door will be $12 for all seats.

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Revolving Closet celebrates 20 years in business, looking forward

“It’s gone so fast, I’m not sure it’s because I absolutely love what I do or I’m getting older,” said Kelly Wedehase, owner of Revolving Closet, as the store celebrated its 20th anniversary Wednesday, March 1.

The celebration included cupcakes for customers and a ribbon cutting. There was also a photo booth where customers could take their photo with Wedehase.

The consignment store, 702 N. Huntington, Syracuse, has been a hit with customers since it opened. Wedehase explained the store actually opened four doors north of its current location.

The original store was much smaller. When Love’s Furniture closed 15 years ago, Revolving Closet moved into the larger

space. Wedehase and her staff never thought they would fill the space up. “2021 was our best year in business, 2022 beat that,” Wedehase said. COVID and the shutdown did change things. Revolving Closet started doing Facebook Live posts on Tuesday nights, allowing people to shop online. Those weekly posts have continued with great success.

When the store opened Wedehase had one employee. Today she has two general managers and six employees. Revolving Closet carries consignment men’s, women’s and children’s clothing along with home decor and new jewelry, trend jewelry and candles.

The store offers a text club where members can take advantage of sales and promotions all month long. To join, text “closet” to (574) 359-5900.

The store currently has 4,200

consignors and is looking for more, especially for home decor.

Consignors have a choice of a 40/60 split for clothing that is

mall brand, in the current style and seasonally appropriate; or cash buyout, which can be any season of clothing.

Indiana Chamber offers analysis at legislative session midpoint

The 2023 session of the Indiana General Assembly has reached its midpoint, and the Indiana Chamber of Commerce says it’s pleased with the overall focus of legislators and where things currently stand.

Kevin Brinegar, the organization’s president and chief executive officer, provides his analysis of the activity as it relates to key legislation affecting the business community and its workforce:

Two early policy wins

“One of our top priorities, Senate Bill 2, became law last week and provides tax relief in excess of $100 million to most Hoosier businesses (the pass-through entities),” Brinegar said. “That’s incredibly impactful for the state’s small and mid-size employers.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

“On the defensive side, we were successful in advocating against a particularly onerous bill (Senate Bill 330) that would have subjected contractors on public and tax-advantaged projects — including tax increment financing districts — to additional reporting requirements. It called for submitting weekly wage data to the local unit of government for that particular project, which then would have become public information.”

Brinegar called the bill a “ploy by the unions to get wage data from non-union contractors in particular.”

Growing the talent pipeline

Brinegar said the chamber is “very encouraged by the consensus at the Statehouse in 2023”

to address Indiana’s “massively leaking talent pipeline.”

“House Bill 1002 features a number of provisions that include expanding work-based learning opportunities, making high school graduation requirements more relevant to realworld expectations and creating funding flexibility for students to complete on-the-job-training and post-secondary credentials,” he said.

“House Bill 1449 and Senate Bill 435 would automatically enroll eligible low-income students in the state’s 21st Century Scholars program, which pays for up to four years of in-state college tuition or post-secondary training for eligible students who enroll and complete a short list of preparation activities. Established more than three decades ago, the Scholars program has emerged as one of Indiana’s most effective strategies in driving post-secondary participation and completion. Unfortunately, less than half of eligible students enroll in the program in middle school due to a lack of awareness or adequate support.

“Auto-enrolling 21st Century Scholars could prove to be a game changer toward ensuring that every Hoosier, regardless of financial means, has the aspiration and motivation to earn a post-secondary credential and an equitable opportunity to do so.”

Mental Health Programs

And Funding

Mental health concerns cost Indiana employers $885 million annually in lost productivity and $708 million per year in direct health care costs, according to Brinegar. “Senate Bill 1 helps put a framework in place to combat these issues and we couldn’t be more supportive of this effort,” he said.

“There is yet to be dedicated funding set aside to support the recommendations of the Behavioral Health Commission and particularly establishing and

supporting the new 9-8-8 mental health hotline. That hotline and more (of the commission’s recommendations) could easily be funded with a cigarette tax rate increase of $2 — putting Indiana at $3 per pack (up from the current $1).

“A study just released by the Fairbanks Foundation found that smoking costs Indiana business $3.1 billion a year in extra health care costs, absenteeism and lost productivity. The Indiana Chamber has long supported an increase in the cigarette tax for the health of Hoosiers (a substantially higher tax lowers a state’s smoking rate substantially) and now for that increased revenue to pay for the 9-8-8 hotline and other mental health and public health initiatives.

“We are encouraged that some discussions are going on in the Senate, where that idea has been shut down in the past, even though the House has passed it in two different sessions. The Indiana Chamber will continue to press legislators on raising the cigarette tax, which is the lowest among our surrounding states and one of the lowest in the country.”

State Budget

“What the House passed is very favorable and in sync with much of what the governor laid out in his agenda. We know the Senate will put its stamp on it and change some things, but there is overall consensus on many of the items that will help businesses and citizens alike,” said Brinegar. “The current economic development allocations, for example, are strong and recognize the tools that are needed for the state to complete. And the READI (Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative) 2.0 funding seems well established and everyone is on board there, which is welcome news for areas all around the state.”

It happened in Milford … 40 years ago

Amy Beer is first place spelling bee winner

10 YEARS AGO, MARCH 6, 2013

Hannah Haines stepped to the line and hit the biggest shots of her life. At the 2013 Knights of Columbus state free throw contest held Saturday at Guerin Catholic High School in Noblesville, Haines made the shots necessary to be tabbed as state champion in the three-stage contest. Having advanced from the sectional and regional levels in February, the Milford eighth-grader won the 14-year-old division by making 16 of 25 free throws in the first round and four of five in the tie-breaker to win the title.

It happened sooner than many people hoped it would, but Old SR 15 between South County Line Road and the railroad tracks has now been closed. Bob Bowerman of the Maple Leaf Feed Mill is only one of several business people and residents who will have to change their routes to accommodate the closing.

20 YEARS AGO, MARCH 5, 2003

Jeni Dunithan, a seventh-grader at Milford Middle School, played

It

the violin for the kindergarten class during “Vv week” last week. She played three songs including “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” for about 20 students.

Friday was the last regular day on the job for auto mechanic Ross “Tim” Timmons. He has been working in his profession in Milford since 1953, when he started out at S&M Motor Sales, and still has customers come in with whom he started. Tim has been with Dewart Auto Sales on SR 15 for eight years.

It was recently announced by Kosciusko REMC that Tony Zimmerman, 11594 N. 320W, Milford, is running for election to serve on the utility’s board, at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 19, at the Kosciusko REMC annual meeting in Rodeheaver Auditorium, Winona Lake. Zimmerman is one of six candidates seeking the opportunity to serve in a board position.

30 YEARS AGO, MARCH 3, 1993

During the state Holstein Convention in Indianapolis, two local dairy herds were recognized as top herds in the Hoosier state for

happened in Syracuse ... 50 years ago

their size category: Rich Schlipf and Jesse Beer with a herd size of 69; average yearly production per cow: 23,932 pounds of milk and 783 pounds protein. Fred and Pat Beer with a herd size of 132; average yearly production per cow: 23,335 pounds of milk, 894 pounds butterfat and 714 pounds protein.

A reunion is being planned for Saturday, June 26, for those who attended Miller School, three miles west of Milford.

40 YEARS AGO, MARCH 9, 1983

Winners at the Milford Junior High School spelling bee took their place among top spellers in the recent competition. Amy Beer was the first place winner and Chayo Garza was the second place finisher.

Mrs. Jack (Eva) Hamilton has replaced Marlene Evans (Mrs. Max) as the person who is cleaning and scheduling at the community building. Persons wishing to schedule the building should contact Mrs. Hamilton.

Dr. Leo W. Anglin, Jr., has been named chairman of the department of elementary and secondary educa-

tion at Kent State University. He is a graduate of Milford High School and the son of Mr. and Mrs. Leo Anglin, Sr., who now reside near Leesburg. His mother, Annabelle, is a Milford Elementary teacher.

50 YEARS AGO, MARCH 7, 1973

Marion Acton, Milford junior high principal and a well known basketball official throughout Indiana, will referee at the Indianapolis semi-finals at the Butler Field House Saturday. He received his notice Tuesday p.m. Andrea Newman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leon Newman, will represent Milford, Wawasee high school and the American Legion Auxiliary unit 226 this year at the annual Hoosier Girls’ State. Andrea is a Wawasee high school junior and is active in the Spanish club, Y-teens and is a member of the school’s choir. Phi Beta Kappa honors this week were conferred on DePauw university senior Kristen Phend, 244 N. Main, Milford. She was among 40 DePauw university seniors whose election to the national scholar-

Cripe receives football scholarship at Purdue

10 YEARS AGO,

MARCH 6, 2013

The drought of 2012 left Lake Wawasee’s water level down about 18 inches and even dropped nearby Lake Michigan to its lowest water level in recorded history since 1918. Curiously, however, this water level drop was not seen for all of the more than 100 lakes in Kosciusko County.

Wawasee High School students are at work preparing for this year’s musical, “Thoroughly Modern Millie.” Directed, again, by Kristin Bonner, who had taken a 10-year hiatus from the school’s program, the musical is sure to be a fun night for all who attend.

20 YEARS AGO, MARCH 5, 2003

Graceful, elegant and fun. These are just three words to describe ballroom dancing which is offered at the Syracuse Community Center in Syracuse. Not only are dances held, but lessons are, too.

Local students enjoyed a “paint experience” at Syracuse Public Library Monday after school.

Bridget Long and Lewis Brower, both eighth-graders at Milford Middle School, and Becky Brower, assistant librarian who coordinated the project, and Erika Long, fifth-grader at Syracuse

Elementary, drew and painted a table-size banner.

30 YEARS AGO, MARCH 10, 1993

A prayer or prayers will be al-

lowed at graduation, if the senior class so chooses. This was the unanimous decision by members of the Wawasee Community School Corporation Board of Trustees Tuesday evening during its regular meeting.

Henry Smith, owner of Curve Auto Sales, which opened at Frank’s Place property in the fall of ’92, has moved some of his cars to the old Sunoco station location, just south of the tracks. Jim Cretacci is managing the new Curve Auto Extras business, which does auto detailing, window tinting, car washing, and so forth.

40 YEARS AGO, MARCH 9, 1983

The Town of Syracuse is accepting applications for a full-time of-

ficer to replace Steve Knispel, who left Syracuse Police Department to accept a position with the Kosciusko County Police Department.

Noticed in the grocery stores more and more canning companies are distributing no salt or low sodium foods, with other diet goods most people on diets can eat better.

50 YEARS AGO, MARCH 7, 1973

Kim Cripe, Wawasee high school senior and son of Mr. and Mrs. Cripe of r 1 Syracuse, has achieved something that no other Wawasee high school athlete has by receiving a four year scholarship to play Big 10 football at Purdue university in West Lafayette.

ship society was announced by Dr. John McFarland, president of the university’s faculty chapter of Phi Beta Kappa.

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

NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS OF HEARING ON PROPOSED CUMULATIVE CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT

FUND

Notice is hereby given to the taxpayers of Kosciusko County, Kosciusko, County, Indiana, that the Kosciusko County Commissioners will consider at 100 W. Center St. – Old Courtroom, Warsaw, IN at 9 o’clock am on March 28, 2023, the establishment of a Cumulative Capital Development Fund under the provisions of Indiana Code 36-9-14.5 for the purposes as follows:

For all uses as set out in IC 36-9-14.5. IC 36-9-14.5 Cumulative Capital Development fund to provide money for any purpose for which property taxes may be imposed within the county as specified in this code.

The tax will be levied on all taxable real and personal property within the taxing district and will not exceed $0.0333 per $100 of assessed valuation. The proposed fund will be levied beginning with taxes due and payable in the year 2023. Taxpayers appearing at such hearing shall have the right to be heard thereon. The proposed tax rate for the Cumulative Capital Development Fund is subject to certification by the Department of Local Government Finance.

Within 30 days after the date of the adoption of the cumulative fund by the Kosciusko County Commissioners, the Kosciusko County will publish a Notice of Adoption.

Upon publication of the Notice of Adoption, 25 or more taxpayers in the taxing district may file a petition with the County Auditor not later than noon 30 days after the publication of the Notice of Adoption setting forth their objections to the proposed fund.

Dated this 3rd day of March, 2023. Kosciusko County Commissioners hspaxlp Mar.8-15

NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS OF HEARING ON PROPOSED CUMULATIVE BRIDGE FUND

Notice is hereby given to the taxpayers of Kosciusko County, Kosciusko, County, Indiana, that the Kosciusko County Commissioners will consider at 100 W. Center St. – Old Courtroom, Warsaw, IN at 9 o’clock am on March 28, 2023, the establishment of a Cumulative Bridge Fund under the provisions of Indiana Code 8-16-3 for the purposes as follows:

For all uses as set out in IC 8-16-3. IC 8-16-3 Cumulative Bridge fund to provide funds for the cost of construction, maintenance, and repair of bridges, approaches and grade separations.

The tax will be levied on all taxable real and personal property within the taxing district and will not exceed $0.10 per $100 of assessed valuation. The proposed fund will be levied beginning with taxes due and payable in the year 2024. Taxpayers appearing at such hearing shall have the right to be heard thereon. The proposed tax rate for the Cumulative Bridge Fund is subject to certification by the Department of Local Government Finance.

Within 30 days after the date of the adoption of the cumulative fund by the Kosciusko County Commissioners, the Kosciusko County will publish a Notice of Adoption.

10 YEARS AGO, MARCH 6,

2013

The theme of the evening of the North Webster-Tippecanoe Chamber of Commerce annual awards dinner was North Webster then and now. The emphasis was on how compassionate and caring business owners have continued to help the community grow, attract visitors and new residents and still exemplify the best of hometown values in the process. Community volunteer Jay Johnson was selected as the Person of the Year for 2012. He is very active with the local Boy Scouts and with the North Webster Lions Club, shepherding several young men through the Eagle Scout requirements and volunteering to do many jobs both visible and invisible with the Mermaid Festival and other Lions projects.

20 YEARS AGO, MARCH 5, 2003

North Webster Community Center board members took another step toward fulfilling their goals yesterday evening, when they signed a lease with leaders of Kosciusko YMCA. Lakeland Kiwanis Club of North Webster met Feb. 24 with president Neva Hartman presiding. Guest speaker Jim Garner, principal at North Webster Elementary School, shared with club members his past 26 years as an educator. He earned his bachelor’s degrees and several master’s from Ball State University. He is in his third year at North Webster Elementary.

30 YEARS AGO, MARCH 3, 1993

North Webster Lionesses met 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 present were Lori Howard and Theresa Sembeck. Bobbi Hamman was named as chairman of the nominating committee.

Lois Lundy was hostess for the Feb. 18 meeting of Backwater Friends Club. Mildred Gary was assistant hostess. The group voted to accept the same slate of officers for the coming year, except for the position of vice president. The officers are Gray, president; Laura Coverstone, vice president; Lundy, secretary; and Edith Hoffert, treasurer.

40 YEARS AGO, MARCH 9, 1983

One of the main items of business before the North Webster Town Board Wednesday, March 2, at its regular meeting was the swearing in of the new town marshal, Gregory A. Nance. Nance was hired to fill the vacancy created when Charles Parker, who had been town marshal for the past five years, resigned in February to accept a position as director of the International Palace of Sports. Bouquets to Toby Galloway for winning a gold medal in the Distributive Education Petroleum Contest held recently at South

Bend. Toby, a senior student at Wawasee High School, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Galloway. A member of the high school Deca Club, Toby is very interested in cars, auto parts, mechanics and the fossil fuel industry. His sponsor was Jerry Minton, a teacher at Wawasee.

50 YEARS AGO, MARCH 7, 1973

John Kussmaul has purchased the “Jot-Em-Down” store in Barbee and is residing with his family in the 900 block of East Center street, Warsaw. His mother has an apartment at Barbee. Mr. and Mrs. Kussmaul have four chil-

dren, Jimmy, 18; Mary 17, is a high school junior; Joan 15, will attend freshman high; and Jennifer, 6, is in first grade. Mr. Kussmaul will begin operation of the grocery at Barbee this week.

Mr. and Mrs. Stu Walker entertained at 6:30 p.m. Sunday at their home for members and prospective members of the North Webster United Methodist choir. A carry-in dinner was shared by choir members and their families and guests. Miss Vicki Vanator, Syracuse, and Ronald Hernskiene, Fort Wayne, visited her grandmother, Mrs. Stanley Vanator, Sunday afternoon.

Upon publication of the Notice of Adoption, 25 or more taxpayers in the taxing district may file a petition with the County Auditor not later than noon 30 days after the publication of the Notice of Adoption setting forth their objections to the proposed fund.

Dated this 3rd day of March, 2023. Kosciusko County Commissioners hspaxlp Mar.8-15

LEGAL NOTICE

The Silver Lake Police Department is currently accepting applications for the position of Chief Deputy Marshal. This is a full-time, non-exempt position. Salary to be determined. Indiana Law Enforcement Academy Tier 1 or Tier 2 graduates in good standing are strongly preferred.

Minimum Qualification Requirements:

• Must be a citizen of the United States and must have reached his or her twenty-first birthday as of the date that the basic training ends

• Applicants must have high school diploma or achieved their equivalent GED

• Shall possess the strength, agility, vision, and hearing necessary to complete all requirements of the appropriate board-approved basic training program. The applicant shall have no physical or mental impairment that creates a safety hazard for self, other students, or training staff while participating in basic training.

• Shall possess a valid driver’s license from the state of residence

• Shall be of good reputation and character as determined by a police department character and background investigation on the applicant

• Shall not have been convicted of any felony or any other crime or series of crimes which would indicate to a reasonable person that the applicant is potentially dangerous, violent, or has a propensity to break the law.

• Pass a reading and writing examination

• A dishonorable discharge from military service shall disqualify the applicant, and a discharge other than honorable may be grounds for rejection

Those interested may pick up an application for employment at the Silver Lake Town Hall during regular business hours. Questions may be sent to SLPD@TOWNOFSILVERLAKE.COM

Town Marshal Jason P. McGlennen hspaxlp Mar.8-15

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Town of Mentone, Indiana, by and through its Town Council, hereinafter referred to as the Owner, will receive sealed bids for the Town of Mentone, Indiana Washington Street Storm Sewer Improvements that consists of the following improvements:

The installation of approximately 397 lineal feet of 24-inch diameter storm sewer, three 60-inch diameter manholes, and incidental items associated with the work.

Sealed bids sent by delivery service for which receipt by Owner is documented in care of the Town of Mentone, 201 West Main Street, Mentone, Indiana 46539 or delivered in person will be considered by the Owner at a regularly scheduled Town Council public meeting, provided the proposals are delivered prior to the start of the public meeting, at 6:30 p.m., local prevailing time, on April 5, 2023, at 201 West Main Street, Mentone, Indiana. Proposals received after the bid opening process has begun will be returned unopened.

The work to be performed and the proposals to be submitted, including any and all separate and combination proposals, shall include sufficient and proper sums for all General, Construction, Installation, Labor, Materials, Tools, Equipment, Taxes (both Federal and State), Permits, Licenses, Insurance, Service Costs, and so forth, incident to and required for the construction of the facilities.

All materials furnished and labor performed incident to and required for the proper and satisfactory execution of the contracts shall be furnished and performed in accordance with the requirements of the contract documents as defined in the General Conditions of the Construction Contract, and any addenda thereto, prepared by the Engineer, EMANS Engineering. Said Bid Documents are on file with the Owner, Town of Mentone, Josh Shepherd, 201 West Main Street, Mentone, Indiana 46539, 1-574-353-7198.

Each proposal must be enclosed in a sealed envelope bearing the title of the project and the name and address of the Bidder.

Each Bid shall be accompanied by a Certified Check or acceptable Bidder’s Bond made payable to the Owner, in a sum of not less than five percent (5%) of the total amount of the highest aggregate proposal, which check or bond will be held by the Owner as evidence that the Bidder will, if awarded a contract or contracts, enter into the same with the Owner upon notification to do so within fifteen (15) days of said notification.

Contractor to be qualified to perform Public Work in accordance with IC 5-1613-10. 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 of contract execution. The bonds shall be in the amount of 100% 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. Liquidated damages in the amount of One Thousand Dollars ($1,000) per day of delayed or unsatisfactory completion of the Contract, beyond the agreed upon completion date, shall be paid by the Contractor to the Owner pursuant to the terms and conditions of the written contract ultimately entered into by the successful bidder and Owner. hspaxlp Mar 8-15

It happened in North Webster ... 50 years ago

Kussmaul purchases the “Jot-Em-Down” store

The faithful in 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

Habitat For Humanity Of Kosciusko County

Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County has a lofty vision: “A world where everyone has a decent place to live.”

Its mission is equally ambitious: “Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.”

Dennis Judy, construction manager, responded on behalf of the Kosciusko County chapter, which carries its own unique 501(c)(3) status apart from the international organization.

He gave a brief history of the global organization and the Kosciusko County affiliate.

“Habitat for Humanity was founded in 1976 in Americus, Ga., and quickly spread across the country and globe as a grassroots movement to end substandard housing,” he said.

Around The Lakes

“From there, small chapters, known as affiliates, sprang up to carry out the same mission within a local context. Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County, established in 1991, is one of those affiliates. Since then, this affiliate has gone on to build 35 homes — 11 of those in The Mail-Journal readership area — for low-income families, all within Kosciusko County.

“This has been accomplished through the coordination of volunteers; donated materials/labor; and the support of local individuals, businesses and churches.”

He also stated the larger purpose behind the ministry.

“There’s a difference between providing shelter and creating opportunities for homeownership. We want more people to become homeowners through our program because when they do, their life is completely changed. Their health is better, they start building wealth, they save more each month, their kids do better in school, they’re more likely to vote.

“There is a great need for affordable homeownership opportunities across the nation, and we want to be part of the local solution. Let’s build together!”

In 2023, for the first time Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County will build two homes in one year. The homes will be located on adjacent lots in Claypool and will be constructed for single mothers. Simultaneous groundbreakings for both foundations will occur in March.

“Our goal is to eventually get to building three homes a year,” said Executive Director Ben Logan.

The affiliate also operates a 9,000-square-foot ReStore, a home improvement store and donation center, located at 3970 Corridor Drive, Warsaw. The display area and warehouse, coupled

with 3,000 square feet of administrative space, comprise the county affiliate’s headquarters.

Proceeds from ReStore sales pay for “50% to 60% of our operating costs,” said Logan The store sells “donated furniture, cabinetry, appliances and other home improvement goods” and “anyone and everyone can shop here,” according to Judy, who noted the trifecta of benefits generated by the enterprise. “Everything is priced well below retail, good items avoid the landfill and the revenue generated supports Habitat’s local home-building efforts. It’s a win-win-win!”

Volunteers for builds or to work in the store may apply at kosciuskohabitat.org/volunteer. Applicants must sign a waiver, and some restrictions apply to those under 18.

Financial donations may be made online at kosciuskohabitat.org/give or by check made out to “Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County” and mailed to P.O. Box 1913, Warsaw, IN 46581.

Businesses interested in sponsoring a build can learn more at kosciuskohabitat.org or by calling (574) 269-4104. All sponsorship levels include the opportunity for reserved volunteer days on the build site for employees/ members.

The organization offers free pickup of large in-kind donations. For more information, visit kosciuskohabitat.org/donations or call the ReSale Outlet at (574) 314-6603.

Office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; store hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

For more information, email info@kosciuskohabitat.org or visit kosciuskohabitat.org, facebook. com/kosciuskohabitat or facebook.com/kosciuskorestore.

Quaker Haven Camp to host

annual sap run March 11

Quaker Haven Camp will host its 12th annual Sap Run Saturday, March 11. The event consists of two races: a competitive 5K run and a 1-mile “sap stroll.”

The registration table for the races, which both step off at 9 a.m., will open at 7:30 a.m. Participants can preregister at quakerhaven. com/upcoming-events.

The $30 entry fee for the 5K includes a long-sleeved T-shirt and pancake breakfast served in the camp’s dining hall. The $10 fee for the 1-mile stroll includes breakfast.

For non-racers, breakfast begins at 8 a.m. and costs $9/adult and $5/

children 5-11.

Following the races, an award ceremony will be held in the dining room. Awards will be given only for 5K male and female participants who win their age category: 14 & under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69 and 70+. Trophies will also be awarded to the top overall male and female finisher.

The event raises funds for the operating expenses of Quaker Haven Camp. The syrup served with breakfast comes from the sap of the camp’s maple trees and bottles will be

available for sale during and after the event.

For more information, call (574) 834-4193 or visit quakerhaven.com.

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, March 10. The meals will be available for dine-in or drive-thru 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 April 14. For more information, call the church at (574) 457-3778 or visit facebook.com/syracusecalvary. umc.

FUNERAL CHAPELS

THE WEST side of the Milford Fire Department has been torn up for the past week as a new water main is being installed. Matt Miller is pictured on the right, looking on as Jerry Stewart operates the excavator last week. Beer & Slabaugh was contracted to complete the project.

“It should take about a week to complete, weather permitting,” said Miller, which means it should be done very soon.

—o—

CREATE AN Easter Wreath with Shelly at the Syracuse Public Library. The wreath making event will be at 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 14, in the downstairs meeting room. Sign up early, as this program is limited to 12 people. There is a $3 fee required at sign-up to help cover the cost of materials. Sign up at the upstairs circulation desk.

—o—

NORTH WEBSTER Community Center could use some volunteers at Casino Night Saturday, March 11. Visit facebook.com/nwcommunitycenter and click on the signupgenius.com link to sign up. A variety of jobs are available from 4:45-9 p.m., include running games, selling tickets and collecting money. Call (574) 8341600, ext. 222, for more information. —o—

DO YOU or someone you know have their lifeguard certification? If so, there are many places that could use those services this summer, including the towns of Milford and Syracuse. Milford is seeking lifeguards to patrol the beach on Waubee Lake at Milford Town Park, while the Syracuse Parks and Recreation department is looking for the same for the beach at Lakeside Park.

If you are qualified and interested in providing a valuable service to the community, working on your tan and earning good money all at the same time, contact Steven Marquart in Milford at (574) 658-4519 or the Syracuse Parks and Recreation office at (574) 457-3440.

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“THE WORD is out. I love to read to classrooms,” said Emily Worrell, NWCC director who read to students at North Webster Elementary School last week.

“Guest reading on Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March 2, was even better. Creating memories, creating community and creating a legacy.”

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VENTURE INTO the outdoors with help from the Syracuse Public Library. With spring officially arriving on Monday, March 20, the library is encouraging patrons to visit Ox Bow County Park or any neighboring Elkhart County Park. The library has a 2023 park pass that patrons may check out for three days. Ask for it at the upstairs circulation desk.

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LIFE IS hard. Too hard to do alone. Harvest Coffee in Milford is hosting an event where attendees will learn about what challenges are facing families and youth in the community. They’ll learn about many of the resources available and what we can be done to help.

Doors will open at 8 a.m. Saturday, April 29, at Wawasee Bible Church, 2035 E. 1300N, Milford. Free tickets are now available by visiting eventbrite.com/e/549235316617. The event is sponsored in conjunction with LITE, LiveWell Kosciusko, Rose Garden, Compass Wawasee and Exodus Ministries.

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KOSCIUSKO’S LARGEST kids business fair recently announced it’s completely sold out with over 100 youth businesses signed up. Registration has closed early because of this. The event will be held 10

a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 18, at the North Webster Community Center. Be sure to come out and see what these young entrepreneurs are up too.

THE TIPPECANOE Township trustee’s office has officially moved to the North Webster Community Center. Trustee Chris Francis accepted the keys to the new office space Wednesday, March 1. Pictured is Francis, center, accepting the keys from NWCC Executive Director Emily Worrell. Also pictured is Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory Chief Jeremy Likens. —o—

LEPRECHAUNS HAVE returned to the Syracuse Public Library and are causing a stir. Children are encouraged to use their creativity to trap these rascals. The library will host a leprechaun trap building session at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, March 16, in the downstairs meeting room. —o—

“HOLY JITS,” a free self-defense and fellowship class, is taking place at 6 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at Milford Christian Church, 201 N. Henry St. This community outreach program is completely free to the public. Contact Frank Perales at (574) 621-6065 for more information, or come to a session to check it out!

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THE SYRACUSE Lake Association Board has started sending out its membership form to members. SLA members should check their in-boxes for an email with the membership form attached. Members are asked to fill out the form and send it along with their dues payment to the address on the form. Those who do not have email should expect the form to arrive in the mail. —o—

SENIOR PRIMELIFE Enrichment Center Director Nancy Gray was home most of last week “babying her knee.” She’s back now, limping a little but back on the job.

Gray shared that SPEC’s monthly euchre tournament will take place at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, March 16. The buy-in is $2, and Gray recommends players to arrive early to grab a seat. The first casino trip of the year will be Monday, March 20. They are going to the new Four Winds Casino in South Bend. All the perks are the same: $50 for the day trip, which also gets you a $10 lunch ticket and $15 play money. They’ll leave the parking lot at 8:30 a.m. at NWCC and 9 a.m. from the Lowe’s parking lot. Call Gray at (574) 834-1600, ext. 224, to book your trip. Payment for the seat on the bus must be received by March 15. —o—

REGISTRATION FOR new students to Lakeland Youth Center for the 2023/2024 school year opened Monday. Classes are for 3- to 4-yearolds and 4- to 5-year-olds. Visit LYC’s website, lakelandyouthin.myrec.com/info/default.aspx for more information and to register your preschooler.

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MILFORD KIWANIS will be holding a pancake and sausage breakfast from 7-10 a.m. Saturday, March 18, inside the Milford Community Building. The cost of the meal is a freewill donation. Proceeds from the event will help benefit the many positive community programs with which the service organization is involved.

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CONGRATULATIONS TO these smartypants Wawasee teachers who banded together to be crowned champions of the Wawasee Kiwanis’s trivia night last Thursday. Pictured from left are Trent Beer, Brent Berkeypile, Mark Burks and Matt Carpenter.

“Our families serving your family with professionalism, compassion and care.”

Pierceton and Warsaw

Michael and Tracy Wilson