The Mail-Journal - March 29, 2023

Annual S-W Chamber Awards Presented Thursday

Individuals, businesses and a local organization were honored at the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce annual Awards Celebration Thursday, March 23.

Rich Beauty Parlor, Pro-Wake and Wee Warriors Academy were respective recipients of the small, large and new business of the year awards.

The Women of Today was honored as the Organization of the Year and Trevor Ritter was the named Volunteer of the Year.

A new award, Educator of the Year, was presented to Cheryl VanLaeken and Marlies West received the Ambassador of the Year award.

Close to 200 chamber members and guests attended the annual banquet to hear the accomplishments of the award winners and hear updates on the chamber by

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Clerk-Treasurer candidates detail their management style

For the primary race for the Syracuse Clerk-Treasurer’s Office, The Mail-Journal is asking incumbent Virginia Cazier and challenger Larry Siegel a question a week through the April 26 edition to give readers an idea of how each envisions the office. The third question candidates were asked was, “Describe your management style and how you anticipate incorporating the skills and efforts of your staff.”

Virginia Cazier

Visitor’s Center to open

During the North WebsterTippecanoe Township annual banquet, it was announced the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce plans to renovate the old concession stand area at the North Webster

Community Center to open a new visitor’s center.

This coincides with the chamber moving its office from the Tippecanoe Township building on South Morton Street to the NWCC as a result of the township selling that property to the North Webster Church of God.

“With the sale of the township building the chamber had to find a new office location,” said Chamber President Emily Shipley.

“Over a period of a few months, starting last summer, we started to look at options around North Webster.

“A priority was finding a space where we could have our monthly meetings,” she said. “Since we are all volunteers and wouldn’t be able to staff an office, spending thousands on rent for a storefront didn’t make sense. We needed to find a location where we could have a monthly meeting, have storage for our event supplies and decorations and host our telephone answering service. Scott

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Successful managers get to know their employees and support them to produce their highest quality work. They also employ a variety of management styles; flexible, adaptive and applying the appropriate technique for the given circumstance. I try my best to assess the situation and adjust my management style accordingly. Different situations call for different kinds of leadership.

What sets me apart is I see my employees in the clerk’s office as my team and I treat them as such. In my experience, an effective leader works in conjunction with their team, not above them. There are different responsibilities and duties assigned to each employee in the office. There is a good level of collaboration between and among all the employees in the clerk’s office and we work well individually and as a team. It is important to cross-train, learn each other’s

responsibilities and strengthen our knowledge in helping each other. I want to inspire my deputy clerks to achieve more than they ever thought possible by tapping into their potential.

Since I have been the ClerkTreasurer, there have been so many positive changes. I hired a new accounts payable/receivable deputy clerk in 2021. She is a quick learner and very helpful to all departments. My utility clerk has been in the clerk’s office since 2008. She is very knowledgeable in her position. I hired a part-time helper to help us when we get super busy and she has organized this office by helping destroy old records, keeping records needed for an upcoming audit, and archiving records that need to be kept. The clerk’s office is very stable, organized and very capable of adapting to change. I trust and rely on them to do their jobs.

As your Clerk-Treasurer, I have been able to make positive changes in our office while maintaining the same organized structure as my predecessors. I would be honored to continue being the Clerk-Treasurer of Syracuse. I love my job and love serving the people of this town.

Larry Siegel

Serving the people of the town of Syracuse is the only reason to have a clerk-treasurer’s office.

I have had the opportunity to serve the people of Syracuse on the town council for more than 20 years.

I appreciate the support and

confidence from all the people of Syracuse who recently reelected me to the town council. This election has made me aware of a yet greater need to serve as clerktreasurer.

During 2013, I completed a yearlong fellowship program attending the Tobias Center for Leadership, headquartered in the Indiana University Kelley School of Business. So, it is difficult to summarize my management style in 400 words or less.

There are several management styles, each appropriate depending on the scenario at hand, all including planning, organizing, leading and controlling an organization. Some summarize management styles into 12 or more styles. For brevity, I will utilize four classifications.

Laissez-Faire — When the team is working on all cylinders, hands off, let them roll.

Participative — Encourage feedback from employees and in-

clude them in decision making. Autocratic — Deadlines requiring all hands on deck. Transformational — Create positive change, possibly cross training, developing employees into leaders. Regardless of each employee’s skills, tasks at hand, and required management, my style is to always focus on the organization’s objectives, with teamwork as a priority. Out of respect for myself and team members, I consider employees, what they know, and what they do as the primary resource and asset of their organization.

It is critical to stay tuned to the front line people in the organization. They often have new beneficial ideas that can actually improve the process. Employees receive customer feedback that is beneficial to the organization. The people of the town of Syracuse are who we serve. What you have to

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Annual S-W Chamber Awards

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Staci York, executive director, and a special announcement by Jeff Dyson, chamber president.

Amy Rensberger, KeyBank, presented the Small Business Award. She stated there were a lot of small businesses in the community worthy of the award and they were all winners for the hard work they do. Rich Beauty Parlor owner was noted as working in the community in various ways, including collaborating with other businesses, hosting food trucks in the parking lot, hosting events and serving with others beside her. She is involved in education and empowering others, including youth with a commitment to the cosmetology class at Fairfield High School.

The Large Business Award

was presented by Tom Tuttle of Team Tuttle Mortgage. He noted Pro Wake is involved in helping make memories, providing a perfect lake experience and enhancing the area beyond the water. Among the company’s various community involvements was participating in the Huddle Up For Hostetler’s event, which raised over $200,000 for a local family who was dealing with cancer. “This is just one example of their commitment to make the area a better place,” said Tuttle.

Wee Warriors Academy, the New Business of the Year Award recipient, was opened last year after a need was seen for child care. The academy provides a safe and reliable service that started in Leticia Howell’s home.

Women of Today, recipients

of the Organization of the Year Award, has been serving the community since 1982. It started with 25 members and has grown to be a driving force, taking care of children in need in the school corporations and the needs of the school.

One of its projects was taking the Warrior Closet at Wawasee High School and rebranding it as The Hanger with high-end used clothing. “They help with fees for camp, reading projects and aid where they are needed.

… Women of Today support the opportunity to give back,” stated Rich Haddad, president and CEO of K21 Foundation, who sponsored the award.

consistently providing help to the community.

The “fun” announcement came at the close of the evening. Dyson announced the chamber is further enhancing its assistance promoting the Syracuse-Wawasee area. The chamber will be working a lot more networking events, business building seminars and

educational series. To help local businesses promote themselves, a push will be focused on a new website: mywawasee.com. The site will include all chamber members’ information, promote events and post job openings. Each business will also be able to maintain its own listings.

Prior to the awards, York reviewed events of the chamber

during the past seven months. She noted a luncheon for women, which was a success, tours of various businesses and upcoming tours. It was announced there will be a fun summer event for which details are still being worked out and encouraged members to keep a watch for more details in the chamber newsletter.

Continued from page 1 Kuhn, Karen White and I toured a couple places in town and took photos to take back to the board for a vote.

“When Scott and I toured the Community Center with Emily Worrell, she gave us a couple of options for space. The spaces she offered us were beautiful; however, none of them made sense to have an office we couldn’t staff. If we couldn’t staff, it didn’t make sense to pay rent.

“While touring, we walked past the old concession stand. She offered us the space because of the cabinetry, which could store some of our supplies. With the rental of this space we would have the use of a room to hold our monthly board meeting, which was the priority, as well as WiFi and a phone extension.

“After some careful thought, Scott and I came up with the idea to rent this space and utilize all the benefits of being a tenant at the Community Center, but we also came up with a plan to present to the board of creating this space to be a visitor’s center.

“The concession stand is next to the building entrance on SR 13. Those doors will not be open on a daily basis, but will be during big events at the NWCC and during community events.”

The visitor’s center will not be staffed during most times. “There may be days that having a volunteer would be ideal,” said Shipley.

“For now, the visitor center will be used as a central location to find brochures, lake maps, a calendar of events, our community guide and necessary information for residents, potential residents, and visitors to glean information. Ideas are limitless and we are encouraging our members to have input.”

Dr. Richard Brungardt presented Trevor Ritter the Volunteer of the Year Award. Brungardt noted Ritter began as a Cub Scout, then went on to become an Eagle Scout. He now is the leader of Cub Scout Pack 3828 and has made a positive impact. Ritter has also been involved in food drives and donations for the Salvation Army, has raised money for Riley and more. Ritter has a full-time open door to help anyone in need.

The chamber will display its “Member of the Month” photos and historical community photos at the visitors center. It also will have a suggestion box, as they are always looking for suggestions on events and activities that will benefit the community. This will allow people to provide anonymous suggestions.

“Directing people to the Visitor Center will be through our social media accounts and advertising,” Shipley said. “All of our members will be encouraged to direct people there for community information.”

Visitor’s Center Clerk-

Construction on the new space started in mid-March. Projects include painting the walls and gathering information to be displayed. Renovations should be completed by the end of March, first of April.

“Funding for this project is minimal because we have awesome volunteers, such as Chris Trowbridge, Paula Miller, Scott Kuhn who are giving their time and talent,” Shipley concluded.

“The paint and supplies will be purchased by the chamber.”

Cheryl VanLaeken, a fifth grade teacher at Milford, was recognized for her involvement in KeyClub, LatchKey program and the creation of a telephone hotline to bring joy to other people. The hotline, overseen by students, has over 28,000 followers: “When Life Gives You Lemons Just Call A Fifth Grader.” She has also helped raise funds for Riley.

President and CEO of The Regional Chamber of Northeast Indiana Bill Konyha presented the Ambassador of the Year Award to Marlies West. West was noted as going above and beyond the call of duty. She attended every ribbon cutting, even while going through a personal health issue. She helped with the golf outing and was

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say matters. All of our employees deserve to be appreciated for the skills and effort they provide to the team. I truly encourage and appreciate collaboration and always manage with an open-door policy.

My management style has always been to stay in communication and collaboration with all other managers in the organization, maximizing my department’s direction and effort to the betterment of the organization as a whole. Coordinating with all other departments creates teamwork, not just within my department, but also the entire enterprise.

As always, it is my goal to assure Syracuse stays a place where people want to live, work and play.

KCSO To Seek Funding To Expand Inmate Mental Health, Substance Abuse Treatment

Kosciusko County Commissioners have OK’d allowing the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office to seek a maximum of $500,000 from the state to expand mental health and substance abuse treatment services at the Kosciusko County Jail.

Kosciusko County Sheriff Jim Smith and KCSO Chief Deputy Chris McKeand made the request at the commissioners’ meeting on Tuesday, March 28. The grant money would come via the state’s new Integrated Reentry and Correctional Support program.

IRACS has been implemented in five counties so far, including Dearborn County, where KCSO leadership observed the program not long ago.

“It encompasses a certified peer recovery coach and a reentry coordinator,” said McKeand, mentioning that it would be in addi-

tion to the county’s Jail Chemical Addiction Program and for the whole jail population.

Inmates “would have access to these peer recovery coaches to aid in one-on-one counseling, group counseling, helping them get the recovery assistance that they need to be able to take that next step,” said McKeand. “The coordinator position would help them find the services out in the community, the housing, those same services, the one-on-one recovery, the group recovery. It also allows for the creation of a community recovery hub, which all of those activities outside of the jail would be taking place in that location.”

He said implementing the program will use collaboration with entities including the Kosciusko County Prosecutor’s Office, court system and county work release.

“One of the things that we’re hoping (will come) out of it is a reduction in our jail population,” said McKeand, adding that Dear-

born County has seen “fewer instances in their jail of violence, of suicide, of damages.”

Smith added Dearborn County Sheriff Shane McHenry told him there was less recidivism with people as well.

In response to a question from Commissioners’ President Brad Jackson, McKeand noted the county would contract for the additional personnel and they wouldn’t be county employees.

At the meeting, commissioners also approved McKeand and Smith’s request to apply for an Indiana Criminal Justice Institute Comprehensive Hoosier Highway Injury Reduction Program grant.

If the KCSO receives the $20,500, it will pay for deputies doing extra patrols for such things as stopping drunk driving and monitoring seat belt use.

Commissioners’ next meeting is 9 a.m. Tuesday, April 11, in the Kosciusko County Courthouse’s Old Courtroom.

Obituaries

Hilda Lenora Seybert

A Native Of Milford

Hilda Lenora Seybert, 100, Fort Wayne, passed away peacefully in her sleep at home on Tuesday, March 21, 2023.

Born in Milford on Feb. 22, 1923, to Jesse and Lenora Dippon, she was the youngest of six siblings. Hilda married Paul Seybert on June 7, 1947, and had been married 63 years at the time of his death in 2010.

Hilda graduated from Milford High School and attended Purdue and Indiana Universities. She was a member of the Purdue University choir. In addition to being a wonderful mother, wife and friend, she taught elementary school, ran her own business and was a member of many organizations. She was past president of “Friends of IU-Purdue,” PEO, Service League/Guild, Beta Sigma Phi, served on school boards, PTAs and church committees.

One of her greatest passions was being active with the Michigan City Chamber of Commerce’s committee for the Miss Indiana Pageant for five years. Hilda was an associate member of Chapel by the Sea in Fort Myers Beach, Fla., and a member of First Presbyterian Church, Fort Wayne. Her religion was an important part of her life. Having never met a stranger or being one to pass up an opportunity or chocolate, Hilda was a joy to be around with an enthusiasm for life and friends and a positive attitude. She will truly be missed.

Surviving are one daughter, Paula (Stephen) Reckley in Elmhurst, Ill.; and one son, David (Patty) Seybert in Fort Wayne. She is also survived by five grandchildren, Sara (Matt) and Tom (Meg) in Chicago, Ehren (Claire) in San Francisco, Andrew in Fort Wayne and Jon (Adrianna) in Fort Wayne. She had nine great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul; and granddaughter, Courtney.

A memorial service will be held at a later date for family and friends. At her request, memorials can be made to the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital or Mathew 25 Clinic in Fort Wayne.

Condolences can be left online at www.klaehnfahlmeltonfunerals. com.

Jay Allen Vanlaningham

Lifetime Area Resident

Jay Allen Vanlaningham, 54, a lifetime resident of Milford, passed away Tuesday, March 21, 2023.

Born in Goshen on Aug. 25, 1968, Jay was the son of the late Rita (Hare) Vanlaningham and Richard “Ric” Vanlaningham, who survives. He was a graduate of Wawasee High School, class of 1986. Jay was a hard worker who worked with his family at Van Cabinets for sometime and for many years at Jasper Plastics in the moulding area.

Jay is remembered for his good sense of humor and his smarts. He was a collector of International Harvester memorabilia and IH toys. He liked to try his luck at the casino and time spent outdoors at home.

In addition to his mother, Rita, Jay was preceded in passing by brother, Troy Stephenson; nephew, Dustin Miller; and brother-in-law, John Nace.

Those who survive include father, Ric (Sandi) Vanlaningham; sister, Kelly (Dave) Warrick of Mesa; two half sisters, Naomi (Richard) Stouder of Syracuse and Sarah Nace of Warsaw and girlfriend, Petra DeFreeuw. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins. Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse is entrusted with care of Jay and his family.

A memorial service is in the planning stages for spring; details for the service will be announced on www.titusfuneralhome.com at a later date.

A man who worked to help preserve Lake Wawasee

including such individuals as Tom Yoder, land acquisition; and Heather Harwood, executive director.

The sudden loss of Al Campbell Sunday evening, March 26, came as a shock to all who ever knew him.

He always had a smile on his face whenever I would run into him at an event or just out and about. I really don’t think he had an enemy in the world. He was always fun to be around, laughing and telling stories. He was always complimentary. I don’t know how many notes of appreciation I have received from him over the years, when all I was doing was my job.

He loved Lake Wawasee and after buying a home on the lake in 1980, he became involved in different organizations. Among them was the Wawasee Property Owners Association, where he served on the board.

In the early 1990s the WPOA board heard from a property owner who presented a photo of sediment coming into the lake and encouraged WPOA to do something. A group got together and Campbell was among them. It was this core group who helped form the Wawasee Area Conservancy District.

But it didn’t stop there. Campbell, along with Marilyn and Dan Berkey, started the weekly 10-Lakes Canoe Trip in 1995, and continued to help with the trips, particularly the logistics, until his passing. He could tell you how many have taken those trips since the start, the number now reaching over 4,000.

Campbell later went on to serve as vice chairman of WACF and was on the board from 199698.

He’s been credited for getting people involved in keeping the lake clean and joining the WACF,

James ‘Al’ Campbell

James “Al” Campbell, 92, passed away unexpectedly in his residence on Wawasee Lake in Syracuse. Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services-Owen Chapel of Syracuse, 1001 S. Huntington St., Syracuse.

A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.

— Christopher Reeve

Births

Theodore John Blakeslee Lucas and Amber (Myers) Blakeslee, Milford, are the parents of a son, Theodore John, born at 2:19 a.m. March 23, 2023. He weighed 7 pounds, 8 ounces.

Andrew Lawrence Miller Dana and Charlotte (Hochstetler) Miller, Milford, are the parents of a son, Andrew Lawrence, born at 3:07 a.m. March 27,

2023, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces, and was 20 1/2 inches long.

Maternal grandparents are Larry and Lucretia Hochstetler, Bremen. Paternal grandparents are Weldon and Marilyn Miller, Bremen.

Andrew joins three siblings: Lewis, William and Grant.

LRSD executive session March 30

Lakeland Regional Sewer District will have an executive session at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, March 30, at its district office, 5002 E. CR 100N, Warsaw.

This executive session is being held in accordance with I.C. 5-141.5-6.1 (b)(5). That statute refers to receiving information about and interview prospective employees.

Importance of Magical Meadows highlights ‘A Day To Rise Up’

An evening to support and celebrate the importance of Magical Meadows took place Saturday evening, March 25, at Tippecanoe Country Club.

Close to 130 people attended to help raise money, learn about Magical Meadows and hear testimonials from parents of four of the participants.

Magical Meadows is embarking on its 15th year of offering therapeutic horseback riding for children and adults with physical and mental challenges.

The stories shared and brief videos shown pulled at the heart strings. Each person there was challenged to come out and watch what goes on.

“If you’ve never been to Magical Meadows, it’s hard to just say what Magical Meadows is,” said Carl Adams, executive director. The videos and testimonials showed just that. “We have boys and girls club, we have Joe’s Kids, we have the Animal Welfare League. All of those are great,” said Adams. “But I just feel like Magical Meadows puts all those things together and you get all of that and a little bit more. That’s what you’re going to experience.

“I challenge you, if you have a few minutes sometime to come out to The Meadows and just watch, you cannot go out there and not leave without being moved. It’s an amazing place.”

any one of you in the room,” said Tammy Stackhouse, founder. “You could wake up and have a stroke or a traumatic brain disorder.”

Another testimonial is of a young girl who learned how to walk while participating at Magical Meadows and how Magical Meadows has been life changing for her and her family.

He has been recognized with a few awards, the WACF Volunteer of the Year Award and the WPOA’s Chief Award. He will forever be remembered for helping with the WACF’s first property acquisition. That acquisition is now called Campbell Overlook, named after Al and his wife, Dottie. His name is also found on a plaque as a member of the WACF’s Eli Lilly Lifetime Founders Society

But he didn’t have to serve on any board to promote keeping the lake beautiful. He did this wherever he went and did it quietly.

Blair Baumgartner, one of our staff writers, had to come up with a profile for The Mail-Journal. Since Al was a very close friend to his parents, he interviewed Al. “He always showed a genuine interest in me as a person,” said Baumgartner.

“Al had an incredibly sharp mind and a very warm personality. He always made you feel special and welcome. He was filled with charisma and was a great storyteller. He also loved sports. He had a great memory and was able to recall stories from the past and bring them to life,” said Baumgartner.

“I wish I could have known him earlier in life, but am thankful our paths crossed. He was very encouraging and complimented my writing. Even though I did not get to spend much time with him, I always enjoyed talking to him. He will be sorely missed. He was an incredible man who positively impacted many lives.”

Heather Harwood said it best, “He will really be missed. It’s a sad day.”

Testimonies were heard from the parents of Owen, Alice, Jack, Addy and Anna. Each one had a story of where their child was before going to Magical Meadows and the improvement since, but more importantly the excitement each one has going to Magical Meadows. Parents reported strength in mobility, core body strength and balance all through what they feel are games, but are actually means to help.

Parents related how their children’s faces light up when they know they are going “horseback riding,” how smiles appear and how their child is trapped in a body that won’t let them do what they want to do. One parent stated Magical Meadows has built confidence in their child. “It is something they can do and feel almost normal.”

One of the stories dealt with a person who suffered impairment from COVID-19. “It could be

The evening included a number of silent and live auction items. A special live auction item — a guitar signed by The Rolling Stones — brought in $5,800 to the highest bidder. Additionally, a donor pledged $3,000 in a matching grant that was matched that evening.

Adams and Stackhouse noted the fundraising goal this year is $75,000. Prior to the evening they had reached close to $40,000.

“I cannot tell you in the 10 years I’ve been blessed as executive director the miracles I’ve seen on a regular basis,” said Adams. “Step on a horse and all goes away. The parents are beside themselves. It is a place to relax, a healing place.

… Kosciusko County needs Magical Meadows.”

Magical Meadows has 150 children and adults who ride consistently every week “Each one is special and we treat each one like they are special.”

Stackhouse stated it was time for Kosciusko County to step up. She noted those who come to Magical Meadows can’t be included in many things, but at Magical Mead-

ows there are opportunities to be included where there is time and a place for them. They noted Stage 2 of their

building phase is starting with two additional buildings “We’re moving forward. We don’t have a lot of time.”

Accidents/Incidents

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

Kosciusko County

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

6:50 a.m. Sunday, March 26, West CR 600N, east of North CR 200W, Leesburg. Driver: Ryan N. Dye, 38, South Main Street, Goshen. Dye’s vehicle collided with a deer. Damage up to $5,000.

8:16 p.m. Friday, March 24, East Old Road 30, east of North SR 13, Pierceton. Driver: Elijah J. Kessens, 19, South Edgewater Drive, Syracuse. Kessens was involved in a vehicle pursuit with the Pierceton Police Department when the motorcycle he was driving hit a small amount of sand in the middle of the roadway.

Kessens lost control and was thrown off of his motorcycle. He sustained minor abrasions to his legs and complained of pain to his hands. He refused treatment at the scene and was taken into custody. Damage up to $2,500.

8:21 a.m. Thursday, March 23, South Main Street, near West Waubee Road, Milford. Drivers: Tiffany C. Ross, 21, US 31 South, South Bend; and Karissa T. Wilson, 29, South Main Street, Milford. Ross proceeded though the Waubee Road and Main Street intersection and hit Wilson’s vehicle. Damage up to $25,000.

7:51 a.m.

Wednesday, March 22, East CR 550N, Warsaw. Driver: Katherine P. Smallegan, 29, North Edgewood Court, Leesburg. Smallegan lost control of her vehicle, which rolled into the field. She was taken to the hospital to be checked out due to having body pain and being pregnant. Damage up to $50,000.

3:09 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, North CR 300E, south of Bowser Road, Syracuse. Drivers: Lindsey M. Tomblin, 59, EMS D18B Lane, Syracuse; and Austin R. Keith, 24, Mathews Street, Kendallville. Tomblin turned left into Keith’s vehicle. Damage up to $10,000.

North Webster

Officers with the North Webster Police Department investigated the following accident: Accident

7:34 a.m. Thursday, March 23, North SR 13, south of Syracuse Webster Road, North Webster.

Driver: Edd Allen, 67, North Turkey Creek Road, Syracuse. Allen struck a deer with his vehicle. Damage up to $10,000.

Syracuse

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

2:15 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, North Huntington Street, south of West Boston Street, Syracuse.

Drivers: Corey T. Whelpley, 38, South Packerton Road, Silver Lake; and Emory L. Greider, 47, South CR 900W, Mentone. Whelp-

ley struck the back of Greider’s vehicle as it was stopped for a train. Damage up to $5,000.

Arrests

8:37 p.m. Saturday, March 25, 100 West Bowser Road, Syracuse. Tyler Crittendon, 28, 7235 N. SR 13, North Webster, was arrested for possession of meth, possession of a hypodermic syringe or needle, possession of paraphernalia and a warrant. An officer was dispatched to for a welfare check on an individual outside of Burger King, that individual was Crittendon, who had an active warrant. When searching Crittendon, he was found to have meth, a syringe, and paraphernalia in his possession. Bond: $20,500 surety and cash.

Warsaw

Officers with the Warsaw Police Department investigated the following accidents:

Accidents

8:47 a.m. Thursday, March 23, U.S. 30 and Orthopedic Drive, Warsaw.

Drivers: Robin S. Wirebaugh, 54, East Fourth Street, Milford; and Amil L. Haines, 42, Alpha Street, Warsaw. Wirebaugh lost control of her vehicle due to it going through standing water on the road. Her vehicle hit Haines’. Damage up to $2,500. 9:33 p.m. Wednesday, March 22, SR 25 and SR 15, Warsaw.

Drivers: Diana L. Dausman, 68, East CR 550N, Leesburg; and Harold D. Gates, 72, West CR 100S, Bourbon. Dausman’s vehicle hit Gates’. She complained of chest pain and was taken to the hospital. Damage up to $25,000.

Jail Bookings

Kosciusko County

The following people were booked in Kosciusko County Jail:

March 26 — Tonya S. Day, 46, 9601 N. Sandpoint Drive, Cromwell, booked for operating without ever obtaining a license.

Bond: $500 cash.

March 25 — Tyler James Crittendon, 28, 7235 N. SR 13, North Webster, booked for meth possession, warrant service, possession of a hypodermic syringe or needle and possession of paraphernalia.

Bond: $20,500 surety and cash.

March 25 — Corey James Zareski, 52, 804 N. Harrison St., No. 1, Syracuse, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Bond: $700 cash.

March 25 — Arli M. Schmidt, 23, 9920 E. Starry Eyed Lane, Cromwell, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Bond: $700 cash.

March 25 — Zachery Ray McKenzie, 40, 13477 N. Hillside Drive, Syracuse, booked for possession of a hypodermic syringe or needle. Bond: $6,000 surety and cash.

March 24 — Christopher Raige Jarvis Jr., 19, 202 S. Edgewater Drive, Syracuse, booked for resisting law enforcement. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

Court News

Civil Collections Kosciusko County

The following civil collection has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Chris Kehler presiding: Town of North Webster v. Samnang Phat, $22,000 Elkhart County

The following civil collection has been awarded in Elkhart County Courts: Citibank, N.A. v. Michael Day, New Paris, $5,665.64

Mortgage Foreclosures

Elkhart County

The following mortgage foreclosure has been awarded in Elkhart County Courts: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. v. Winston Eddie Wakeland Jr., New Paris, $60,148.06

Superior Court III

The following fines for traffic violations were assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: No valid driver’s license — Terri C. Wolfe, Syracuse, $160.50

Operating a motor vehicle with a false plate — Clinton A. Carden, Syracuse, $110

Child restraint system violation — Steven L. Mar Hollar, Leesburg, $25

Failure to provide vehicle registration certificate — Kayla E. Wallen, Syracuse, $160

March 24 — Elijah Joe Kessens, 19, 202 S. Edgewater Drive, Syracuse, booked for resisting law enforcement. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

March 23 — John Howard Edwin Heckaman, 49, 9516 N. 100E, Milford, booked for failure to appear – felony and a foreign warrant. No bond.

Elkhart County

The following people were booked in Elkhart County Jail:

March 24 — Tyler Adam Ferguson, 24, 508 N. Parkway Drive, Syracuse, booked for two counts of driving while suspended with prior and two counts of possession of marijuana/hash oil/hashish/ saliva with prior conviction. No bond listed.

March 21 — Craig Alan Souers, 57, 410 W. Hillshire Drive, Syracuse, booked for possession of methamphetamine and possession of marijuana/hash oil/hashish/salvia. No bond listed.

March 20 — April Marie Espinoza, 29, 9721 E. Pixie Parkway, Cromwell, booked for two counts of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, two counts of possession of paraphernalia and driving while suspended. No bond listed.

March 19 — Brayden Daniel Boone, 27, 19090 W. Fourth St., New Paris, booked for possession of cocaine or a narcotic drug, two counts of possession of marijuana/ hash oil/hashish/saliva and possession of paraphernalia. No bond listed.

Eagle Scout Van Ness recognized at commissioners’ meeting

A new Eagle Scout from Warsaw has been recognized by Kosciusko County for his achievements.

Dylan Van Ness was honored at the Kosciusko County Commissioners’ meeting Tuesday, March 28. He’s the son of Brad and Heather Van Ness and a member of Boy Scout Troop 726 of North Webster. The 16-year-old attends Warsaw Community High School and will be inducted into its honor society. For his Eagle Scout service project, Dylan helped rebuild a

pit at the Whitley County Family YMCA for gaga ball, a game akin to a gentler form of dodgeball.

Commissioners presented Dylan with a certificate, and Commissioners’ Vice President Bob Conley read a statement.

“This honor demonstrates you are a hard-working young man and of good character,” read Conley. “You should be proud of this accomplishment. Over the course of your years in scouting, you have learned many qualities that have helped shape you into a young, strong leader and helpful citizen to your community.

“Our hope for your future is that you continue to learn and grow

and lead with integrity,” Conley continued. “The Scout oath and the Scout law provide guidelines for you to become a strong, confident adult. The knowledge and attitude you develop as a Scout will be with you the rest of your life.”

After the presentation, Kosciusko County Sheriff Jim Smith said he was honored to have attended Dylan’s recent Eagle Scout Court of Honor ceremony. He noted only 5% or less of Boy Scouts achieve the Eagle Scout rank and Dylan had worked to achieve more merit badges than he needed for the distinction. Smith offered Dylan his congratulations.

Jent arrested after allegedly stealing vehicle, fleeing from police

A Goshen man was recently arrested after allegedly stealing a vehicle and fleeing from police.

Corey Michael Jent, 35, 57479 Emerald Chase Lane, Goshen, is charged with resisting law enforcement, operating a vehicle as a habitual traffic violator, possession of methamphetamine, and theft, all level 6 felonies; possession of a controlled substance, a class A misdemeanor; and possession of paraphernalia, a class C misdemeanor.

On March 21, Kosciusko County officers received a report about a white Chevrolet Tahoe being stolen from the Warsaw area. A Milford Police officer was on patrol in Milford when he noticed a Chevrolet Tahoe traveling north on SR 15.

According to court documents, the driver, later identified as Jent,

Syracuse Public Library —

passed multiple vehicles and fled from the officer. During the pursuit, Jent disregarded stop signs, ran a red light, passed a vehicle improperly and drove in excess of 80 mph until he crashed just north of Milford. Syracuse and Warsaw Police officers arrived on scene and assisted in taking Jent into custody.

While searching Jent’s person, officers found a smoking device containing a crystal-like substance.

Jent said he snuck into the Victory Hotel to take a shower when the building’s manager chased him out. While he was leaving, Jent noticed a nearby Chevrolet Tahoe,

Spring break fun

Staying in town for spring break? Swing by the Syracuse Public Library for programs all week.

Join the children’s department for a nature walk at 10:30 a.m.

Monday, April 3, at Benton DamRiver Preserve County Park, 68552 CR 31 near New Paris; all attendees will meet at the park. This program is weather dependent, so watch the library’s social media pages and website, www.syracuse. lib.in.us, for any program changes.

Failure to register, operating a motor vehicle without financial responsibility, no operator’s license in possession, no valid driver’s license

Kathleen L. Wellington, North Webster, $260.50

Marriage Licenses

Kosciusko County

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

Davis-Bontrager

Mark T. Davis, 55, Cromwell, and Billie R. Bontrager, 48, Cromwell

Dailing-Coy

Michelle J. Dailing, 45, Milford, and Michael S. Coy, 45, Milford

Swinehart-Miller

Josh Swinehart, 28, Cromwell, and Samantha M. Miller, 26, Cromwell

Dean-Smith

Kirby A. Dean, 43, Milford, and Ashley M. Smith, 31, Milford

Marriage Dissolutions

Kosciusko County

The following couple have filed a marriage dissolution in the Kosciusko Superior and Circuit

Courts:

Carvajal-Gonzalez — Saris Y. Carvajal, Columbia City, and Richard Gonzalez, Milford. They were married June 20, 2020; no separation date given. No minor children.

During the rest of the week children will have themed days, where they can stop by during library hours to do different things.

Tuesday, April 4, is LEGO Day, where children can build with the library’s tubs of LEGOs. Meet new friends and play new and old board game favorites on Wednesday, April 5. Finally, children can play mold different things during PlayDoh Creation Day.

Teens in grades sixth through 12th also have programs each day.

Watch an anime movie and enjoy popcorn from 2-4 p.m. Monday, April 3. Fans of Roblox can bring their own device or use the library’s public computers to play from 2-4

p.m. Tuesday, April 4. Paint a colorful tree while enjoying hot cocoa from 2-3 p.m. Wednesday, April 5. Return from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, April 6, to play video games on the Nintendo Switch. These programs occur in the Rosalyn Jones Room, which houses the young adult materials.

Mahjong Mahjong continues at 1 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays during the month of April. The group is open to players of all skill levels, including those looking to learn how to play. The group meets in the downstairs meeting room.

Young Adult Book Club Pick

The young adult book club will read “House of Salt and Sorrows” by Erin A. Craig in April.

The novel follows Annaleigh, who lives a sheltered life at Highmoor with her sisters and their father and stepmother. Once there were 12, but loneliness fills the grand halls now that four of the girls’ lives have been cut short. Each death was more tragic than the last — the plague, a plummeting fall, a drowning, a slippery plunge — and there are whispers

throughout the surrounding villages that the family is cursed by the gods. Disturbed by a series of ghostly visions, Annaleigh becomes increasingly suspicious that her sister’s deaths were no accidents.

Pick up copies at the library. A

which was running and unlocked. He allegedly told officers he stole the vehicle to travel to Elkhart so he could get more drugs. Jent also said he fled from police because he thought he could get away.

Upon searching the Chevrolet Tahoe, officers found a bag containing methamphetamine.

Kent’s driving privileges are suspended as a habitual traffic violator, with a 10-year administrative suspension in effect until April 2031.

Jent was booked in the Kosciusko County Jail March 21, with a $5,250 surety and cash bond.

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

digital e-book and audiobook are available on Libby. The discussion occurs from 4-5 p.m. Wednesday, April 26, in the Rosalyn Jones Room. Email Michelle, mparker@ syracuse.lib.in.us, or Amber, aweber@syracuse.lib.in.us, with questions.

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

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Book clubs for students and teachers are popular at WHS

The library at Wawasee High School is always changing. Christmas trees have given way to snowflake posters, large graphic designs for students to color, as well as a Starbucks Café menu highlighting current fiction, graphic novels and non-fiction favorite selections in familiar Starbuck’s coffee cups. A constant at the library is the large white board on the wall in the front corner of the library, which has been a favorite spot for student gatherings all year. Currently, a cozy fireplace scene is playing to add warmth to these cold days.

This area with its comfortable sofas and armchairs is often where the Wawasee High School Book Club meets once a month during homeroom/Warrior time.

“I put together a list of six to eight books from different genres recommended by students or book review formats and sent the list to the students through Google classroom,” said Gena Fowble, librarian. “The students vote on the books to read and then I order them through the Evergreen program available at the Syracuse Public Library. Most books are typically 300 pages long.”

Club members have read “Murder on the Orient Express” by Agatha Christie; “Ink and Bone” by Rachel Caine; “I Am Still Alive” by Kate Marshall; and “Cruel Prince” by Holly Black.

Before each scheduled book club, students usually read the entire book and then meet to discuss the book. When the club is as large as it was at the beginning of the year, Fowble split the students into various groups led by some former junior and senior book club members. “I give the leaders questions or discussion topics to guide the discussions. To have peers leading the discussion is wonderful.”

The book club draws students from all grade levels and from all reading levels. “To see students who may not be the fastest readers still enjoy and decide to become a part of the book club is a celebration. I tell the kids that not everyone is going to have the same passion for reading. I tell them to challenge themselves,” said Fowble. According to Fowble, students seem to enjoy the book club because it is not required. They enjoy spending time with their peers and they can meet others from outside their class.

To further access the needs of students at the high school, Fowble has assembled three students from each grade level to join the LRC Advisory Board, which is also a club. They created a readers’ rewards program to encourage all students to free read for recreation. When a book is completed, the student brings a laminated book mark (made by club members) to the library where it is punched. Five punches earn a prize and 10 punches earn an

invitation to the end-of-the-year celebration. “Free reading is good for vocabulary, creativity and writing,” said Fowble.

In addition to the student book club, there is also a staff book club which also meets once a month.

The teachers have read “Good Nurse” by Charles Graeber; “When Crickets Cry” by Charles Martin; and “The Plot” by Jean Korelitz. There are currently 22 teachers in the staff book club who meet at different local establishments for informal discussions of the book as well as dinner. “The conversation always flows,” said Fowble. The staff book club has met for the past five years.

Read Across Koscuisko County a hit at local elementaries

Second graders across Kosciusko County took a break during their school day on Tuesday, March 28, to have members of the Kosciusko Endowment Youth Services, the Kosciusko County Community Foundation’s youth philanthropy program, read to them in an effort to encourage literacy.

The event was part of Read Across Kosciusko County, 20 KEYS members and 32 adult volunteers, simultaneously read the same book across 16 schools, in 47 classrooms to nearly 1,000 second-grade students, during the 17th anniversary of Read Across Kosciusko County. The event, for second graders, is to emphasize the importance of reading.

In Kosciusko County there are 16 elementary schools with 47 second grade classes with 993 second graders.

Nearly $29,00 in grants were recommended to educators and nonprofit organizations in 2022.

In total, the RAKC program gave over 1,100 books to students and schools, to inculcate literacy and the love of reading, fulfilling their mission, “To work together to positively impact and improve education in our community by providing aid, now and for future generations.”

Program officer of KCCF, Terrill Hooks said, “Read across Kosciusko County is a great, hands-on way for KEYS members to practice their mission to impact education. It’s an opportunity to personally interact with and encourage reading to elementary students. It also helps KEYS members to be better grant makers as they interact with the students who are impacted by the educational grants they award.”

North Webster

Wawasee High School sophomore and KEYS member Evelyn Duncan, read two books to combined secondgrade classes of Colleen Kryder, Gretchen Willaman and Amy Kuhn at North Webster Elementary.

The first book read by Duncan was, “Can I Be Your Dog,” by Troy Cummings and the second, “Fancy Nancy: Poison Ivy Expert,” by Jane O’Connor.

Due to DeeAnna from the KCCF, and KEYS program, each classroom received a copy of the book, “Rise of the Balloon

Goons,” by Troy Cummings, and each student was given a different personal copy to take home.

Syracuse

At Syracuse Elementary School, Titus Taylor, a KEYS member and junior at Wawasee High School, was introduced to the second graders.

Taylor read “Can I Be Your Dog,” by Troy Cummings. It’s a story about a lonely dog looking for his forever home.

As Taylor started to read the book, many of the students were excited as they had read the book before. The children received a copy of “Can I Be Your Dog” as well as another Cummings book. They were especially excited to hear Cummings will be visiting Syracuse Elementary School in early May.

Jerid Stoffel, a guidance counselor at Wawasee High School and volunteer with the community foun-

dation, said Cummings would be visiting all the elementary schools in Kosciusko County before the end of the school year.

The second graders erupted into cheers when Taylor brought out his second book to read to them, “Green Eggs and Ham,” by Dr. Seuss.

“When I was in second grade, Mr. Lucas was my teacher and I loved to read,” Taylor told the students as he began to read the book.

“Just eat them and it will be over,” said one little boy as Taylor read about Sam I am not wanting to even try Green Eggs and Ham.

Afterwards, Taylor said he was pleased at how excited the second graders with about Green Eggs and Ham since it was one of his favorite books when he was in elementary school. He was also told he was the students favorite high school student.

Everingham discusses his coaching career

Former Wawasee High School basketball coach Jon Everingham recently took some time to discuss his coaching career. A common theme centered on his faith in God and love for

his players. He mentioned his faith has always been the most important factor in “who I am, what I do and how I do it.” He has never professed to being perfect. “Like most people, there are many areas of my life that need work.” Keeping that in mind,

he said, “My relationship with God has never let me down and has always had a positive impact on my family, coaching, education career and in my own life journey.”

When he talked about the opportunity to coach his sons, he made it clear he is most proud of their character.

He said, “I am most proud of who my three boys are as people,” He has cherished the opportunity to coach them as players and “made sure they earned everything they got through hard work, dedication and playing the game of basketball the right way.”

He now has the “opportunity to just be their dad and help guide them through the next few years of high school.”

Everingham is most proud of what type of men his players become after high school. He talked about how coaching “gives you an opportunity to impact young people on such a different platform than most other extracurricular activities because of the amount of time you spend with your team.”

He noted, “The most special moments in coaching often occur at graduation ceremonies, weddings, job promotions, fatherhood and other special moments that players include you in on.”

He is proud of the fact that he loved all his players. He said, “I may not have reached them all or made all the right calls on playing time and techniques, but there is no doubt in my mind that I loved them all.”

Lady Warrior softball defeats West Noble and Lakeland

The Wawasee Lady Warrior softball team defeated West Noble, 8-3, Tuesday, March 28, at Wawasee High School.

Wawasee was propelled to victory by a five-run 4th inning. The Lady Warriors held West Noble scoreless four out of seven innings.

Sophomore Ava Couture led the team with three hits, including two singles and one double.

Senior Ari Garcia, junior Jaclynn Worrell and junior Haylee Allen also contributed two hits apiece.

Freshman Heatherlynn Holder and junior Brooke Catron each had a hit. Couture and Worrell also led the team with three stolen bases apiece. Sophomore Evelyn Duncan started in the circle and pitched three strikeouts and only gave up two hits. Allen finished in the circle and had five strikeouts.

Wawasee defeated Lakeland, 4-0, Monday, March 27, at Wawasee.

It took awhile for Wawasee to get on the scoreboard, but they blanked Lakeland with some masterful pitching and defense.

After five scoreless innings, the Lady Warriors were finally able to take the lead when Garcia hit a double and had three RBIs.

Allen was in the circle and pitched 10 strikeouts. Allen also led the team offensively with four hits, including two doubles. Worrell also had a hit for the Warriors.

Next game: 5:30 p.m. Thursday, March 30, at Elkhart High School.

WAWASEE HIGH SCHOOL

Athlete of the Month

Titus Funeral Home

Would Like To Recognize Alexis Mishler (Senior)

As Our Athlete Of The Month

Alexis has been a member of the Swimming & Diving team all four years at Wawasee High School while also competing in Volleyball and Unified Track & Field. She has excelled in swimming and diving throughout her career and experienced tremendous success this past year.

Mishler is a current and pool record holder in several swimming events, and is the 2023 NLC Champion in 200 Medley Relay, 100 Freestyle, 100 Backstroke and 400 Freestyle Relay.

574-457-4002

While reflecting on his coaching career at Wawasee, he said, “Wawasee is a special place with special people.” He gave credit to his assistant coaches, administration, players and support staff for changing the culture within the basketball program.

“Any coach will tell you that they would like to win more and I thought we could have won a few more games in the last seven years, but I know that the culture of work, dedication and a love for one another will be something that will pay off in the upcoming seasons,” he said.

Everingham has always talked to his players about working hard toward achieving their dreams and standing up for what is right.

“Anything worthwhile in life is never easily obtained,” he said.

Both Everingham and his wife Carly played college basketball. They have worked hard to instill in their children that they can only achieve their dreams through hard work, dedication and surrounding themselves with good people.

He said he has always tried to be honest with players about how hard it is to reach the next level and only a very small percentage of high school athletes get that opportunity.

For that reason, Everingham always tried to guide his players toward focusing on their education as a building block for their future.

There is little doubt winning and losing come in many forms. Many people, according to Everingham, “judge a coach by the numbers on a scoreboard or their record.” Everingham has had a different definition of success and winning over the course of his career.

“Coaches and programs win when a player makes the honor roll, a player speaks up in the hallway when another student is being bullied, a player says no to drugs and alcohol even though it feels like everyone is doing it, or a player turns to you in a time of need because they know you care and that they can count on you.

“These are just a few ways that I have won over the years in coaching and I believe I will look back and be very proud of those accomplishments.”

While there will always be challenges in coaching and sometimes people will let you down, he said it can sometimes be challenging to ignore all the negative factors from outside the locker room and stay focused on why you coach in the first place: Because you love kids and want to impact their lives in a positive way.

Coaching has sometimes been difficult for Everingham because his daughter is heavily involved in dance, and he has had to miss some of her recitals and competitions.

“That has been difficult, but I am looking forward to being more involved in her dreams as well.”

When asked about his future plans, he said, “My family and I are fully committed to allowing God direct our lives. We’re excited about the direction he will lead us. In his time, he will let us know clearly when and where he needs us to be.”

One thing is certain, he said, “We will always be a tight-knit basketball family.”

Wawasee boys track and field victorious, girls defeated by West Noble

The Wawasee Warrior boys track and field team was victorious over West Noble, 77-55, Tuesday, March 28, at Wawasee High School.

Taking first place in individual events were Lucas Linder in the boys 100-meter dash, with a time of 11.62 and in the 200m, with a time of 24.03; Josiah Boyer in the 400m, clocking in at 55.53; and Quinton Taylor in the 800m, finishing in 2:14.19.

Moving to the relay teams, coming in first were: the 4x100 relay team of Hunter Tinkey, Linder, Cameron Zimmerman and Bradyn Pike, finishing in 45.37; and the 4x400 relay team of Linder, Boyer, Isaac Winters and Andrew Yoder, finishing in 3:50.06.

Additionally, the 4x800 relay team of Taylor, Senate Shaw, Winters and Hunter Allen came in first, finishing in 9:01.60.

In the field events, first place finishers were: Zimmerman in the long jump, jumping 18-7 3/4; Braxton Gonzalez in the shot put, throwing 38-8 1/2; and also in the discus, throwing 116-2 1/2.

Other notable scorers for Wawasee were Tinkey in the 100m (2nd); Pike in the 100m (3rd), 200m (2nd); Winters in the 800m (3rd); Allen in the 3200m (2nd); Landon Kessler in the 1600m (3rd); Derek Bontrager in the 110m hurdles (2nd) and the 300m hurdles (3rd); Mason Shoemaker in the 110m Hurdles (3rd); Zimmerman in the 300m Hurdles (2nd); Coltin Bucher in high jump (3rd); Dakota Nguyen in pole vault (3rd); Boyer in long jump (3rd); Josh Trujillo in shot put (2nd); and Luke Sharp in discus (3rd).

“The Warriors had high energy and left it all out on the track to-

night. Their hard work this preseason really showed up tonight,” said head coach Chase Pinion.

Hocks are inexpensive and easy

Hocks are a cheap cut whether from lamb, beef or pork. Lamb hocks (generally called shanks) make a great feast anytime but especially at Easter where lamb is the favored dish in many Middle Eastern countries. I use white wine with chicken stock and spices for braising lamb shanks.

Beef hocks can be tasty when properly prepared using a tomato base for braising. Veal hocks are more popular even though they are much more costly and harder to come by than others. They are the basis for the classic Italian osso buco. Here, the veal hock is braised in white wine, garlic, parsley and various vegetables.

Pork hocks are particularly inexpensive and one hock can make a meal for two. Like all hocks, I like to braise the whole hock, fat included, low and slow — generally 3-4 hours. You can’t overcook a hock. To finish, I like to place the hock under the broiler to crisp the fat before serving.

The braising liquid I use for pork hocks is beer and beef stock laced with tomato paste. Others use a red wine base, but the yeast in beer tends to tenderize the meat throughout the cooking process. Either way, the meat is rich and delicious when served with a creamy horseradish sauce.

Here’s a recipe recently used.

1 or 2 pork hocks depending on how many servings you want.

1 tablespoon each, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, dried parsley and black peppercorns.

1/2 teaspoon coarse salt, like Hi-

North Webster Community Public Library —

Beginning genealogy classes to be held

Kosciusko County Genealogist

Faye Myers will lead a four-week beginning course on tracing your family history at the North Webster Community Public Library. Each session in this four-part series will focus on a different aspect of research and genealogy.

These classes will focus on the most fundamental genealogy techniques such as finding basic documentation, the use of census records and so forth. Each session is unique and as a result, attending all sessions is encouraged; however, participants are welcome to attend as many or as few sessions as they choose. Registration is required — call the library at (574) 834-7122 or email info@nweb.lib.in.us.

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

Adult Events

Glean Team, 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 5. This experienced genealogy team is available to help with any genealogy or research questions.

Exercise classes, Thursday, April

6. Get Fit While You Sit chair exercise will take place at 4 p.m. followed by Let’s Move Dance Class at 5 p.m.

Virtual reality time, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Friday, April 7. Come discover a whole new world in a virtual environment using the Oculus gaming system.

Teen Events VR time and Teen Café, 3:30 p.m.

Monday, April 3. Come enjoy virtual reality games on the Oculus Quest

2 plus snacks and a variety of other board games.

The Wawasee Lady Warriors track and field team was defeated by West Noble, 74-57, Tuesday, March 28, at Wawasee High School.

First place finishers for the girls individual events were: Addy Powell in the 400-meter dash, clocking in at 1:04.79; and Mia Hodgson in the 1600m, finishing in 5:46.50.

In the relay event first place finishers were: the 4x100 relay team of Lucy Wilkinson, Kaydence Shepherd, America Benitez and Isabel Schwartz, finishing in 53.59; and the 4x400 relay team of Powell, Trinity LaJoice, Olivia Horn and Molly Beer, finishing in 4:32.72. Morgan Reel finished first in the high jump with a jump of 4-9. Emma Yoder was first in the discus, throwing 130-0.

“Although the team did not get the win, we had plenty of positive outcomes this first meet,” said head coach Stefani Wuthrich.

malayan pink.

1/4 teaspoon dried thyme.

1 teaspoon ground rosemary.

2-3 cups beef stock.

1 bottle dark beer (I use Killian’s Red).

3 tablespoons tomato paste.

4 cloves garlic peeled and smashed.

4-5 bay leaves.

12 white pearl onions, peeled.

2 carrots, cut into 2-inch pieces.

2 celery stalks, cut into 2-inch pieces.

A couple quarters of a white cabbage head, or sauerkraut.

6-8 red potatoes — about the size of a golf ball.

Set a slow-cooker to 300 degrees and place first 10 ingredients in the cooker. Braise for 1 1/2 hours, then rotate the hocks and add the desired vegetables. Braise for another 1-1/2 to 2-hours. The meat

should be close to falling off the bone. Preheat the broiler. Place hocks in a baking dish and broil until the skin becomes browned and starts to get crispy — rotating several times. Serve with the vegetables and a horseradish sauce (sour cream, mayo and horseradish with a little garlic powder and olive oil). Hocks of any kind make a great meal during these cold months. Try any of these relatively inexpensive cuts. I order pork hocks a couple times a year from Martin’s Custom Butchery near Wakarusa. They also own Bales, but I’ve never found them there. Martins also has beef shanks, if you are so inclined. Jamison’s Meats in Fort Wayne are the best source for lamb shanks. Often, veal shanks can be found at the Fresh Market, also in Fort Wayne.

IN THE

By JOYCE ARLEEN CORSON

Guest Columnist and Master Gardener

Siberian squill

Flowers are single, or in a raceme of two or three flowers at the top of a slender naked stem. Each flower is about 1 inch across when fully open, has six flaring blue petals with a darker blue stripe down the center and six white stamens with dark blue tips. The flowers are somewhat bell-shaped when not fully open. Other cultivars of this species may have white, pink or blue-violet flowers.

Anime Club, 3:30 p.m.

Tuesday, April 4. Watch the eighth episode of “The Promised Neverland” and the fifth episode of “Fruits Basket’s.” Snacks and pop are provided.

NWCPL will be hosting a special two-part spring break art program called Play with Clay. Part one will take place at 1 p.m.

Wednesday, April 5, and part two will take place at 1 p.m.

Friday, April 7. Participants will create their clay trinket dishes during part one and have the opportunity to paint and decorate them during part two.

Youth Events

A Dr. Seuss Family Escape Room will be held at 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

Monday, April 3, and

Friday, April 7. Solve puzzles, find clues and unlock the boxes to escape during this fun game. Register for a time slot by calling the library at (574) 834-7122.

Spring ephemerals are perennial woodland wildflowers which develop aerial parts (i.e. stems, leaves and flowers) of the plant early each spring and then quickly boom and produce seed. The leaves often wither leaving only underground structures (i.e. roots, rhizomes and bulbs) for the remainder of the year. This strategy is very common in herbaceous communities of deciduous forests as it allows small herbaceous plants to take advantage of the high levels of sunlight reaching the forest floor prior to the formation of a canopy of woody plants. Examples include: spring beauties, trilliums, harbinger of spring and the genus of dicentra particularly D. cucullaria, Dutchman’s breeches and D. canadensis, squirrel corn.

In the herb layer of beech forest and hornbeam-sessile oak forest, tuberous, bulbous and rhizomous plants are abundant. They com-

prise the spring geophytes (tuberous, bulbous and rhizomous).

These appear to be perennial because they do come back year after year although squill do “seed off.” The seeds can stay quiet until after the frost date in Indiana. They can also wait until the temp is 75 plus

degrees to sprout. All plants produce seeds but plants can grow from severed roots as well and mud bottom plants can grow roots from leaf tissue. Believe it or not it’s still spring and we haven’t even talked about biennials and their tricks!

Family Bingo, 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday, April 5. Fun for the whole family, they will continue to play games until everyone wins a prize.

LEGO Time, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 8. LEGO builders aged 5-12 are invited to the library for an hour of freestyle building fun.

LEGOs provided.

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

Community Corner

From local lakes to national tournaments

Dan Hurd has been a North Webster resident for 45 years. He accomplished what many only ever dream about and transformed his childhood love for fishing into a professional career.

Growing up near the local waterways, Hurd spent countless hours fishing “the tubes” at Webster Lake Landing, igniting a lifelong passion for the sport.

His journey began when his uncle, a member of the Tri-County Bassmasters, was out pre-fishing for a tournament, invited him to join the club and took him out for his first bass tournament experience.

Eventually, Hurd married and had two sons. He supported his household by working at his family’s construction company while his wife was attending medical school.

His work allowed him to make his own hours, so he was able to take care of his two boys while his wife attended school.

“For me, I was bored, and at the time, bass fishing was all my life revolved around,” said Hurd.

So, when he found out the Little Big Store in Leesburg was for sale, he purchased it and turned it into Leesburg Bait and Tackle.

PROFILE

At just 13 years old, Hurd began participating in the club tournaments, quickly making a name for himself.

When he was 14, he found himself winning Top 6 fisherman in Indiana, sending him to the state finals. During that time, the age minimum was 16.

Despite being underage for the state finals, Hurd’s undeniable talent led the state tournament directors to bend the rules, allowing him to compete as one of the top six anglers in Indiana.

“The guys all had a meeting and they said ‘Well, we’ll lie about it. He beat our a****, why not let him fish with these other guys? The kid’s got something. He knows what he’s doing. He’s got some potential here. So, you know, we’ll lie about it.’ That was pretty interesting,” Hurd said with a chuckle.

After four years of fishing in local tournaments, he acquired enough winnings to enroll himself into college at Vincennes University, where he graduated with a degree in conservational law enforcement.

After a few years the owner wanted to tear down the building, so Hurd relocated and bought the Red Horse Bait & Sport Shop in Warsaw.

During that time, he was running the National Bass Anglers Association tournament circuit, a weeknight tournament circuit, a spring weekend tournament circuit, a summer weekend circuit and a fall weekend circuit.

He also became president of the Tri-County Bass Club for around eight years, all while trying to run a bait store.

“I was getting pretty good around here competing in the local tournaments. And I was making quite a bit of money, just throughout the week, fishing a weeknight tournament. And I just wanted more; I couldn’t get enough of it. I wanted more and more,” said Hurd.

He started watching fisherman from Fishing League Worldwide and Bassmaster Classic on TV, which ignited his desire to compete.

“I was just afraid how much money it would cost and traveling and all that. It just boiled down to either do it, or wish I did,” said Hurd. He filled

Bridge Results

North Webster Bridge Group

out the paperwork and shortly after, he received a letter of acceptance.

He fished professionally in the FLW and B.A.S.S. circuits for four years. To him, it was bittersweet. He was doing what he loved, but he was gone from his family for extended periods of time. It was not long before he was burned out from juggling the tournaments, running the bait shop and tending his family. After having multiple back surgeries, Hurd stepped back into same feeling. “I want to get back in and compete like I did,” said Hurd.

In the winter, through Ice Predator Outdoors, he serves as one of the only certified muskie icefishing guides in Indiana. That is, if there is ice to get out there. He specializes in ice-fishing away from tournament fishing for several years now. He still goes out for his own pleasure, but this year, he plans to step back into tournaments.

“I sit and watch it on TV and I get the urge for muskies. Videos of his adventures can be found on his YouTube Channel, Ice Predator Outdoors and on his Facebook page, facebook.com/IcePredatorOutdoors.

Mobile Meals drivers

THURSDAY — C. Hill

Facsimile: (855) 457-5100 Syracuse, Indiana 46567 Email: lek@birchkaufman.com

“Local Attorneys Serving all of Kosciusko and Noble Counties”

The North Webster Bridge Group met Tuesday, March 21, at the Senior Primelife Enrichment Center in the North Webster Community Center. Winners Tuesday were Jerry Hetrick, first, and Wanda Wyrick, second.

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

Syracuse Drivers April 3-7

MONDAY — M. Smith

TUESDAY — P. & L. Stump

WEDNESDAY — P. Smith

FRIDAY — No delivery

Milford Drivers

April 3-7

MONDAY — L. Kammerer

TUESDAY — TBA

WEDNESDAY — J. & C. Wag-

oner

FRIDAY — No delivery

North Webster Drivers April 3-7

MONDAY — G. Smith

TUESDAY — Bart’s Watersports

WEDNESDAY — R. Chambers

THURSDAY — E. Cook

FRIDAY — No delivery

THURSDAY — M. Webb

PAP P

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

Around The Lakes

LAST FRIDAY, a party was held at Senior Primelife Enrichment Center to celebrate the 85th birthday of its director, Nancy Gray. A table filled with homemade treats was available for everyone to enjoy. As part of the celebration, Gray, pictured above in the center, and her fellow octogenarians Phil Payne and Phyllis Burnworth, ran through the halls of the North Webster Community Center. Gray also is seen in the smaller photo holding a couple of the many cards she received that day.

THE SANCTUARY of Syracuse will host its first Easter Eggstravaganza from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, April 8. There will be free games, food and fun, along with an Easter egg hunt that includes a grand prize giveaway.

MEET MILFORD is in the process of planning the 2023 Food Truck Friday series and organizers are looking for team-oriented, community-minded people willing to invest some time and effort to help make these evenings the best they can be. Volunteers are needed to help set up, tear down and help during the events. If you’re interested in joining and being a volunteer, please send them a message, through their Facebook page, and they will put you to work!

NORTH WEBSTER American Legion Post 253 is hosting a spring bazaar from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 15. There will be crafts, a bake sale, and food to purchase, plus more. For more information call (574) 834-4297, ext. 2. —o—

THE SYRACUSE Public Library offers replacement library cards for $2 per card. Now it will waive that fee for children up to age 18 who need to replace a lost or damaged library card. Patrons of all ages can replace their lost or damaged cards for free during National Library Week, April 23-29, or any other event decided by the library director. —o—

MILFORD KIWANIS is getting ready for its annual Easter egg hunt on April 8 at Milford School. The event is open to kids up to third grade. The Easter Bunny will arrive escorted by the Milford Fire Department at 10:15 a.m. and the egg hunt will start at 10:30 a.m. Bring your basket and hunt for eggs filled with treats! —o—

THE KOSCIUSKO County Republican Party will hold “Bingo for Guns” from 5:30-9 p.m. Thursday, May 18, at the Owl’s Net in North Webster. Admission is $100 per person and participants must be 21 to play. The first game will begin at 6:30 p.m.

There will be 10 games played, with the winner of each receiving a gun, provided by Two Bear Arms. Additionally, there will be a 50/50 cash drawing, door prizes and more. Food and a cash bar will be available. For ticket information, contact Steve Foster at (574) 527-5782.

BOONDOCKS “HOME of Peterson’s Fish” recently announced it is a week away from the bar opening at its new location in the South Shore Village. The restaurant is slated to open Thursday, April 13. —o—

THE NORTH Webster Chamber of Commerce gave 140 honorary membership certificates to the young entrepreneurs, who participated in the Kids Business Fair held this month. Congratulations to everyone who participated and made this event a success!

—o—

SIGN UP for a women’s Bible study at Harvest Coffee is now open. The first meeting will be at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 11 in the lower level of Harvest Coffee, 207 N. Higbee St., Milford. Call (574) 658-3066 or message Harvest Coffee on Facebook to register.

—o—

JUST A reminder the deadline for Wawasee Community Summer League’s T-ball/machine pitch for kiddos ages 4-7 is 11:59 p.m. Monday, April 17. Parents can sign their children up on the Lakeland Youth Center’s website, lakelandyouthin.myrec.com/info/default.aspx

—o—

ON TUESDAYS, the North Webster American Legion has a treasure hunt game. The kitchen opens at 5 p.m. with wings and tacos. There will be other games in which players have a chance to win money. Tickets are available for purchase until 6:45 p.m. and the drawing is at 7 p.m.

—o—

NOW IS the time for the annual Easter “egg your yard” event to raise funds for the American Cancer Society and the local chapter of Relay for Life. Let the kids wake up to candy- and prize-filled eggs on Easter morning. Filled plastic eggs will be delivered ready to scatter in your yard on an arranged date or Saturday, April 8.

The order deadline is April 2. The cost for 25 plastic filled eggs is a $15 donation; 50 plastic filled eggs, $30; 75 plastic filled eggs, $45 and 100 plastic filled eggs, $60. All money raised benefits the American Cancer Society and Relay for Life Kosciusko County. Donations may be made by cash, check or credit card.

This event is limited to the Syracuse, Milford and North Webster area. Contact Debbie or Nicole at (574) 268-8420 or (574) 528-0031 or wdgriggs@msn.com or n.bickel@hotmail.com to reserve your egg drop.

—o—

NORTH WEBSTER Community Center is having an indoor garage sale from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 22. To reserve a booth, visit nwcommunitycenter.org. The cost for a booth is $30. There will be 100 different spaces full of interesting finds.

—o—

NOT GOING anywhere for spring break?

Then head to the Syracuse Public Library where Michelle has been hard at work developing programs for the week. There will be an anime movie from 2-4 p.m. Monday, April 3; Roblox from 2-4 p.m. Tuesday, April 4; tree paining from 2-3 p.m. Wednesday, April 5; and YA video gaming from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, April 6.

—o—

MEET MILFORD offered its congratulations to Cheryl VanLaeken and Trevor Ritter on their Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce awards. VanLaeken received Teacher of the Year and Ritter was named Volunteer of the Year. Congrats to both from Around the Lakes, as well!

—o—

LOOKING FOR full- or part-time employment? Be sure to scroll through the Experience Syracuse Facebook page, the official Facebook page of the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce. Several local businesses have added help wanted posts on the page.

Chautauqua plans three-part faith series

Chautauqua plans a threepart series focused on faith, one of the four Chautauqua pillars, 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, April 13, 20 and 27, in Jennings Auditorium, Greencroft Goshen Community Center, 1820 Greencroft Blvd., Goshen. Fort Wayne’s Michael Spath will lead three programs to explore the continuing importance of religion in creating meaning and understanding in peoples’ lives.

This interactive three-part series explores faith, spirituality and religion — their origins, how they shape and were shaped by the environment, the development of the brain and human social patterns.

Why is this important for peoples’ faith today as they continue to search for meaning and understanding of their place in the universe?

April 13,“Religion Before Adam and Eve.”Between 50,000-

10,000 years ago, Europe experienced an “Upper Paleolithic explosion,” the presence of religious thinking in human burial sites, cave art and figurines. What do these primitive signs of religion tell people about what their earliest ancestors believed? What are the unconscious and conscious implications for people of faith today?

April 20, “The Creation of Modern Religion: Where Our Faith and Values Were Born.”

Between 800-200 B.C.E., modern religion was born throughout Greece, India, China, Persia and the Levant during a period scholars call the “Axial Age.” There was a revolution in human thought — a shift toward transcendence; contemplation of humanity’s place in the universe; and understanding of meaning, morality and mortality.

April 27, “Religion Present & Future and What It Means to be Human.” Is humanity on the

verge of a second “Axial Age”? Because of globalism, rapid technological advancements, artificial intelligence and more, humans as a species are beginning to take control of their own evolution (homo evolutis). How are these developments changing people, and what are the moral implications of such advancements for peoples’ faith?

Michael Spath is the founder and executive director of the Indiana Center for Middle East Peace. He holds a PhD in Historical Theology and a Doctor of Ministry degree in New Testament.

In addition to support from Chautauqua Wawasee, other participating organizations are the College Mennonite Church, Assembly Mennonite Church, Eighth Street Mennonite Church, Goshen College Campus Ministries and the Greencroft Chaplaincy. The events are free.

Still time to prepare for Easter

The tradition of many mainline Christian denominations is to practice sacrifice, self-discipline and penance during Lent, the 40-day period before Easter. Lent begins Ash Wednesday, which this year occurred on Feb. 22.

Although Lent is nearly three-quarters over now, with Easter only about 10 days away, there is still time for the devout in heart to ready themselves for the somber reality of Good Friday and the unfettered joy of Easter Sunday. Here are some suggestions, gleaned from believers around the world, how to prepare your mind and heart for the most important events in the history

of Christianity.

Read the Gospel accounts of the Last Supper and Jesus’ arrest, trial, conviction, execution and resurrection. They are found in Matthew 26:17 to 28:10, Mark 14:12 to 16:13, Luke 22:7 to 24:12 and John 13:1 to 20:18.

Take a 10-day break from Facebook and other forums of social media. Practice talking to God instead of talking to cyber friends. If you feel you must stay plugged in online, use your posts to share about the meaning of Holy Week.

Give up sweets, coffee, alcohol, meat or other daily indulgence and rechannel the cravings from the palate to the soul by feeding on God’s word.

Find a cause, whether or not it is one you have supported before, and send a donation or vol-

unteer your time. Give up your favorite hobby for 10 days. Turn off the TV and radio for 10 days.

Use your free time to declutter your home. Simplify your possessions as a gesture of sacrifice.

Fast for an entire day, or for parts of each day, such as skipping lunch or dinner.

Start a diary to record your spiritual experiences as you concentrate on the significance of the events of Jesus Christ’s last week before He resurrected.

Attend one or more church services during Holy Week. See next week’s The Mail-Journal for a list of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday area services.

Calvary United Methodist Church Women’s Retreat

Debbie Roth, a speaker, singer and published author, will lead the church’s women’s retreat Saturday, April 29, at Calvary United Methodist Church in Syracuse.

This is an opportunity for ladies retreat, relax, laugh and fellowship with other women. There is no cost. Donations are accepted.

Registration is required by

April 22 for materials and lunch count. To register, call Bev Hiatt at (574) 528-0131, or the church office, at (574) 457-3778. There are flyers with a registration form in the narthex.

MILFORD LIONS Club welcomed District Governor Brian Thomas to its meeting March 20 inside the Milford Community Building. He’s pictured with Lion Susan Arneaud.

Additionally, at the meeting Jasmine Baum was presented with her 10-year membership award while Steve Haab, Barb Zimmerman and Steve Weisser were given their 30-year membership awards. Congratulations!

A coffee hour and sign in will be from 8-9 a.m., followed by the message from Roth, based on the Book of Ruth, which offers encouragement to all women. There will be door prizes and a soup and salad luncheon. Bring sisters, friends and neighbors.

Roth’s music and book, “Drenched, Only Hope in the Storm,” will be available for purchase.

113 W. Main St. Uptown Syracuse 574-457-3266

In A Frenzy to Find the Best Deal?

It happened in Milford … 50 years ago

Eugene Felkner honored with certificate of membership

10 YEARS AGO, MARCH 27, 2013

Lakeland Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center honored some personnel last week for perfect work attendance during 2012. Julia Agardy, Emily Graham, Laura Guillory, Breanna Kellerman, Holly Mann, Marjorie Mort, Daniel Villarreal, Linda Neal, Judy Jones, Brandy Reedy, Jeane Sherman, Jaclyn Warren and Lisa Sheeley each received a special award. Congratulations to each on your work ethic and dedication to the job.

Homer and Regina Slabaugh, Milford, are the parents of a son, Marcus Alan, born at 4:48 p.m. March 21, 2013. He weighed 9 pounds, 3 ounces and was 20 1/2 inches long.

Kenny Bahr recently retired from CTB Inc. after 28 years of service. During his career at CTB, Bahr worked in the Brock Grain Systems business unit in positions including national account manager and district sales manager. Bahr resides in Goshen.

20 YEARS AGO, MARCH 26, 2003

A letter and diploma from France held by Dan Levernier,

Milford, are no longer in the local veteran’s possession. Levernier returned the items to the Consult General De France last week due to the country’s non-support of the United States’ action in Iraq.

Katie Jones, a junior psychology major in the College of Arts and Sciences at Valparaiso University, recently sang the national anthem at the VU’s women’s and men’s basketball games held in the Athletics-Recreation Center on campus. Katie’s parents are Clark and Judy (Little) Jones of Milford.

A party was held Sunday in the Milford Community Building to celebrate the 80th birthday of Dan Levernier, North Main Street resident. It was attended by family and friends. There were two 40-year balloons because the store had no 80s, he said.

30 YEARS AGO, MARCH 24, 1993

The Milford School wrestling team defeated Nappanee March 10, 35-23. Josh McClintic won by pin in 18 seconds. Tyler Cline won by a pin in 32 seconds. Nick Vanlaningham won by pin in 2:38. Guest speaker at Wawasee Kiwanis Club, March 20, was Bud

Seely, a sports “sufficienado.” He showed a film and spoke about baseball’s Ted Williams. Seely is employed with Chore-Time, Milford. He resides at Milford with wife, Jeri, editor of The MailJournal.

The Ruches — Robert “Hap” and Wilma — recently returned to their Milford home from a 10-day vacation in the Clearwater, Fla., area. Some of their trip highlights included attending the Strawberry Festival and seeing the Statler Brothers in concert.

40 YEARS AGO, MARCH 30, 1983 CTB, Inc., parent company

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BUYER BEWARE The Papers Incorporated cannot screen all advertisements to eliminate possibilities of fraud or misleading information. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Persons responding to ads are advised to contact the Better Business Bureau in your area or the Indiana Secretary of State’s Fraud Hotline before sending any money. 1-800-223-8791

Auction Sales A010

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EMPLOYMENT

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HONEY DO HANDYMAN & RENO. We do it all -

of Chore-Time Equipment, Inc., has announced plans for a major expansion of its Milford operations. Included will be a “phasing into this expansion of all the company’s manufacturing now done at its Athens, Ga., and Goshen locations,” according to James C. Evans, president.

Marvin E. and Leatrice (Gardner) Rapp, Milford, were married Mach 28, 1943, at the Milford Christian Church and will be celebrating their 40th anniversary with a family dinner in Fort Wayne.

Congratulations are in order

to Rosalie Rouch, valedictorian of the 1983 graduating class of Wawasee High School. Rosalie is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Rouch of r 1 Milford. The salutatorian is Robert Schutt, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Schutt of r 1 Pierceton.

50 YEARS AGO, MARCH 28, 1973

Eugene W. Felkner, former Milford postmaster, was honored at the Ancil Geiger American Legion Post 226 annual birthday party Saturday night with a certificate of membership for “50 years or more” by post commander Bruce Mc-

It happened in North Webster... 30 years ago

Clintic. Felkner is a charter member of the Milford American Legion Post, spanning 54 years. Phillip D. Angle, r 2 Milford, was awarded the United Telephone Company of Indiana, Inc., Customer Relations Award for February. Angle received the award for assistance he gave when he was returning to his home after work on February 21 and came upon an auto accident that had just occurred. He assisted one of the drivers to get out of his wrecked truck. He continued his assistance until the ambulance arrived.

New Dollar Store opens in April

10 YEARS AGO

MARCH 27, 2013

The Vegas Night fundraiser for the North Webster Community Center was successful its first time out with more than 350 tickets sold for Saturday evening’s event in the NWCC gym.

The Mermaid Festival theme is “Land of Dixie” and is more “Gone with the Wind” in feeling than Dixie boat. The 2013 dates

NOTICE OF HEARING

The Board of Trustees of the Tippecanoe and Chapman Regional Sewer District (“District”) will hold a public hearing May 8th, 2023, at 6:30 pm at the North Webster Community Center, 301 N. Main St. North Webster, Indiana.

The purpose of the hearing is to receive comment on a Subdivision Control Ordinance establishing a $200 per EDU fee for the reservation of capacity in the District’s Sewage Works. All users of the works and owners of property served, or to be served, and others interested shall have an opportunity to be heard concerning the proposed rates and charges. Board of Trustees Tippecanoe and Chapman Regional Sewer District hspaxlp Mar.29-Apr.5

are Wednesday, June 26, through Saturday, June 29. It is hard to believe but this will be the 68th Mermaid Festival. Thanks one more time to all the members of the North Webster Lions Club and Lady Lioness Club for all the hard work it takes to put the Mermaid Festival together.

Barb Hetrick, Senior Primelife Enrichment Center director, said, “The dollar amount donated

from this year’s walkathon to the North Webster Community Center was $4,014, exactly half of what was earned. The rest went to SPEC.”

20 YEARS AGO, MARCH 26, 2003

It has been a long process with many snags, but after about three years, North Webster Town Park has finally obtained a joint Indiana Waters/DNR grant for a new

taxpayers of the Town of Milford, Kosciusko County, Indiana, that the Town Council will consider at 111 South Main Street, Milford, Indiana 46542 at 7:00 o’clock pm on Monday, April 10, 2023, the establishment of a Cumulative Capital Development Fund under the provisions of Indiana Code 36-915.5 for the purposes as follows: For all uses as set out in IC36-9-15.5.

The tax will be levied on all taxable real and personal property within the taxing district and will not exceed $0.0500 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 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 Town Council the Town Council 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 24th day of March 2023.

MILFORD TOWN COUNCIL hspaxlp Mar.29-Apr.5

KOSCIUSKO COUNTY SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT, KOSCIUSKO COUNTY, INDIANA CASH &

fishing pier. The announcement was made during the Wednesday, March 19, North Webster Town Council meeting. North Webster Clerk-Treasurer Peg Lawrance said the program has ended. Cowboy hats, boots, cactus and other western items were the popular decorations on cakes at the annual North Webster Pack 3726 cake auction held March 13. The theme this year is “Kickin’ It with the Cub Scouts.”

There were 48 people present for the March 13 meeting of North Webster Church of God J.O.Y. group held in the church fellowship hall. Sandi Lung was chairwoman for the day. She was assisted by Mr. and Mrs. Orlie Black, Kathy Warner, Judy Wagner and Marian Signorelli.

30 YEARS AGO, MARCH 31, 1993

In an age where small town businesses are becoming more and more rare, North Webster has received some nice financial news recently. The town will be getting a Family Dollar Store, a variety store, which is currently being moved into the old Thornburg store front on SR 13. The Family Dollar Store will open April 28.

Carlyn Cox, vice president, called the business session to organize March 17 when members of Goodwill Extension Home makers met at North Webster Church of the Brethren. Kathryn Jehnsen gave the meditation and Cox led group singing.

40 YEARS AGO, MARCH 30, 1983

Third-grade students in Mrs. Robert’s class at North Webster Elementary School were visited by author Mrs. Olive Forgatsch of Goshen last week. She read poetry, explained the reasons why they should enjoy poems, and talked to them about writing.

The 64th birthday supper of the American Legion was held at post 253, North Webster, March 25. One hundred people attended the carry-in supper, under supervision of Lou Grieder, Commander Dave Heath, and President Elinore Enyeart.

Heart of Lakes Square Dance Club, North Webster, held its second regular dance on Saturday, March 26, at Camelot Hall, North Webster. There were 21 guests and two singles. Dave Brashear of Sims called the squares. Larry Ault, Warsaw, called rounds.

50 YEARS AGO, MARCH 28, 1973 Lakeland Kiwanis Club held its regular meeting last Monday. Jack Wiseman was a guest. Stuart Walker returned as a new member and was inducted by Rev. Ernest Lawshe.

Mrs. J.L. Pearson and her daughter and granddaughter, Mrs. D.J. Wiggs and Dee Dee of Chapman Lake, left Friday for a week’s vacation visit with Mrs. John Staples, Lewisport, Ky.

It happened in Syracuse...40 years ago

Meditch was chosen as a candidate for the Miss teen of Indiana Pageant

10 YEARS AGO, MARCH 27, 2013

There is brown butcher paper covering the front doors to keep prying eyes from sneaking a peek at the renovations taking place in the Oakwood Inn. but The Mail-Journal recently received an opportunity to see how the renovations are moving along. For all of us who have longed to see something in the old Doc Miller’s Fish and Seafood building, be on the look out for an upscale antique shop. Of course, everyone is thrilled Arthur’s is being re-purposed.

20 YEARS AGO, MARCH 26, 2003

Jim and Ginny Lough of Papakeechie Lake knew that spring was on the way when they saw three different flight of sandhill cranes one evening a few weeks ago.

The Frog holds an Annual First Boat Down the Channel Contest with a cash award shared with the patron who comes closest to guessing the date and time of arrival. Craig Bontrager, a loyal patron of The Frog, won this year.

30 YEARS AGO, MARCH 31, 1993

Seniors at Wawasee High School

will be deciding mid-morning Thursday, April 1, who will be providing the prayer during graduation ceremonies, as well as if there will be one prayer or two prayers.

40 YEARS AGO, MARCH 30, 1983

Miss Teen Candidate Laura Meditch, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Meditch, 196 North Shore Drive, Syracuse, was recently chosen as a candidate in the 1983 Miss teen of Indiana Pageant to be held in Columbus on July 21-23. Miss Meditch is a junior at Wawasee High School.

50 YEARS AGO, MARCH 28, 1973

Don’t be surprised if eventual plans of the State Bank of Syracuse don’t call for a second branch, this one to replace the old Standard station near the fish hatchery. The Hoosier state of Indiana appears on the verge of having Sunday Liquor sales for persons qualifying to a bill passed, 28-22 in the Senate last Friday afternoon. The beer, wine or liquor would have to be sold by the drink for consumption on the premises.

Milford Public Library —

Adult reading program wrap-up

The adult reading program at Milford Public Library will end March 31. This year’s theme was “All Together Now.” Anyone age 18 or older could participate in the program. They had 66 adults participate. Winners were: Trisha Zartman, Carmen Yoder, Sara Krull, Steve Vint, Maria Ashe, Lorene Helmuth, Julie Gunden, Myra Alexander and Kaylynn Workman. Each winner got a $25 gift card of their choice. The grand prize drawing is March 31. Congratulations to all the winners. Keep reading!

Spring Story Time

Spring story time will begin Wednesday, April 5. Registration for spring story time began March 27. Story time is for children ages 3-6 years old. It is offered at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. This sessions themes are: Eggs; This Little Piggie; Poet Tree; Just Ducky; Wiggly Worms and Stuffed Animal Tea Party. Bring your children and listen to some fun stories, make crafts and share a treat with your story time friends.

April LEGO Challenge

The monthly LEGO Challenge for April is to build a bunny rabbit. The winner will take home a new LEGO kit. Be sure to enter the challenge by April 27. 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, April 1-May 6. 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 from 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, firstserve basis, so be sure to ask for yours when you are checking out the week of April 3-8.

NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS OF ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATIONS

Notice is hereby given to the taxpayers of Kosciusko County, Indiana, that the County Council of said County will meet at the Kosciusko County Courthouse, 100 W. Center Street, 3rd Floor Courtroom, Warsaw, Indiana at 6:00 p.m. on April 13, 2023 to consider the following additional appropriations in excess of the budget for the current year:

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

Laura