The Mail-Journal - April 17, 2024

ZEUGNER

of four presented options. The project options were determined by a community engagement committee about a year ago. The Wawasee School board has switched locations for its regular school board meetings. The corporation received occupancy on the Wawasee Professional Learning Center on Thursday, April 11. The regular monthly Wawasee School board meetings will be held at this location, as opposed to the

Warrior Room at Wawasee High School. Although the location has changed, the date and time still remain. The Wawasee Professional Learning Center is the building south of the Central Office, 801 S. Sycamore St., Syracuse. “I just want to thank everyone involved for our new facility,” Dr. Steve Troyer, superintendent, said. “I want to thank the board for its support for this very well put together facility. Being in here for the first time is something we have been looking forward to for

months. I know Dr. Wilfong has been on my case for months about this facility!” During the meeting’s Good News, the board congratulated 15 Wawasee Warriors who graduated Wawasee Virtual Academy. Among those graduates are Caden Edgar, Anna Graff, Mikilah Wiggs, Cora Orth, Allison Gibson, Ashton Stidams, Mary Conway, Haven Rolston, Trinity Wise, Kamren Voss, Jessica Griffith, Abbigail Burelison, Keisha So-

RAINS The cumulative precipitation graph above shows rain from March 1 through April 3 represented by upward movement in the blue line. From March 26 to April 3 a total of 2.78 inches of rain has been recorded. Source: Ecosystem Connections.

Recent rains impact on lake levels

Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District has control actions in place to mitigate flooding on Wawasee, Syracuse and Papakeechie Lakes.

As spring unfolds, and heavy rainfall continues, the lakes continue to receive runoff from surrounding areas. In response, The Turkey Creek DDCD has opened the flood control gates at the Huntington Street dam to release excess water while ensuring the safety of downstream areas like the Henry Street bridge.

While this process is gradual, any rain respite will mitigate the heightened water levels, currently up by approximately 4.8 inches from the norm. Later this month, TCDDCD is taking proactive steps to enhance our monitoring capabilities.

In late April, TCDDCD will be installing updated water level gauges and flow-rate meters. These advancements will provide more precise data to guide control structure operations.

For more information about the District, regularly check its website turkeycreekddcd.org and click on contact us join its newsletter list.

The graphs are data readings from monitoring equipment that was installed last winter.

EXTERIOR DESIGN CONCEPT Garmann Miller presented the Wawasee School board multiple design concepts during its regular April board meeting. School board members shown from left are Don Bokhart and Steve Baut.

Wawasee School board

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wards, Trey Rollins and Kierstyn Miller. Numerous donations were made to the corporation from community members and businesses, including $100 from Teghtmeyer Ace Hardware of Syracuse for Wawasee Student Council Pow Wow; $50 from Diane and Wendell Miller for Wawasee Student Council Pow Wow; $50 from Todd and Kristen Harris; and $3,700 from the Knights of Columbus Council #6323 for Wawasee baseball. The Wawasee High School’s Academic Hall of Fame received

multiple donations, including $200 from Culver Family Foundation; $75 from Syracuse Bud’s Body Shop; $75 from Syracuse Hardware; $100 from Crossroads Bank; $100 from Ace Pest Control; $100 from Bass Audiology; $500 from The Papers; $100 from Ace Hardware of North Webster; and $500 from Knights of Columbus Council #6323.

The Wawasee FFA also received various donations, including: $200 from Sherman Bryant; $50 from Syracuse-Wawasee Garden Club; $50 from Deatsman Grain Farms; $500 from CTB Inc.; $500 from

Kosciusko County Community Foundation; $150 from Lakeview Farms; $150 from Arlen and Shirley Bobeck; $150 from Schlipf Precision Ag; $250 from M. Russell and Mary Anderson; $250 from Farm Credit; $75 from Randy and Eldonna Warren; $225 from Marc and Jodi Beer; $100 from Danielle and Nathan Lambert; and $700 from Elite Agronomy.

The next regular Wawasee School board meeting will be held 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 14 in the Wawasee Professional Learning Center, 801 S. Sycamore St., Syracuse.

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Bowers explained a major obstacle to the project is lack of water. He explained a well system would be cost prohibitive. Essentially the area would need to operate its own water municipality to ensure water for residents and for fire suppression.

Bowers told the council the cost would be around $2.5 million.

Councilman Larry Siegel noted running water to the south side of town would cost approximately $2.6 million.

Bowers stated he was there just to introduce himself, not ask for anything from the town.

Siegel proceeded to explain how the town runs the utility at a loss. Councilwoman Cindy Kaiser interjected pointing out to Siegel he had asked previously if the South Shore project had any developers interested in the project and here was one. Councilman Paul Stoelting, council vice president, said he would like to hear TRG’s presentation. Bowers went through a brief history of the company, which started in 1990 as Ridge Petroleum

Contractors. It expanded into development in 2018 and has done multi-million dollar multi-family projects in West Lafayette, Angola, Indianapolis and Ellettsville.

Siegel asked how the town would benefit from the South Shore project. Bowers noted “more housing brings more people.” He told the council TRG is “indifferent” to annexation.

Jeff Dyson, co-owner of South Shore Ventures, told the council the market for the project would be young families, including families with school age children which would increase local school funding and more utility revenue.

After several minutes of testy back and forth between Siegel and Dyson, Stoelting asked Siegel if he was suggesting the town should reject the project outright without doing any research.

Dyson reminded the council the project is $100 million economic investment into the area. Siegel noted the county has already established a tax increment finance district around the property. Stoelting ended the discussion

saying to Siegel “I think this is just an introduction... Rather than arguing...” He then thanked Bowers for his time.

The council approved the TIF bond for Rabbit Ridge Development after Siegel raised questions as to what would happen if Dr. Larry Allen paid off the bond early. He was concerned the town would be on the hook for the 80/20 split for 20 years. Dennis Otten, an attorney with Bose McKinney and Evans explained the agreement was written in such a way that would not happen. After some discussion a motion to suspend and vote on a ordinance on animal waste died for lack of a vote. The matter will be reviewed next month.

The council approved rezoning 2.2 acres from public use to commercial. The property, which has already been sold, is located by St. Andrews United Methodist Church. It will house a storage unit with a second floor residence.

The council approved a resolution updating the town’s facade grant program.

Tuesday night to request the town sign the services agreement and provide an update. KEDCO has been working on the South Shore and Rabbit Ridge projects, the 1350 corridor and a possible development project west of town. Siegel asked for details about the

of

Wilkinson said discussions were very preliminary, “notes on a napkin,” was how she described it. The services agreement is for $17,500. Scherer expressed some concern that KEDCO does not currently have an executive director. The council was told a public announcement regarding the position is expected to be made within the next 30 days. After the motion was made and seconded, there was discussion from the council.

“I probably have the most interface here to KEDCO,” Siegel said. “Everything

KEDCO will be board driven,” Wilkinson said. Siegel asked if anyone from Syracuse was on KEDCO’s board.

Wilkinson said Ryan Zimmerman from PolyWood and Kim Cates both represented the area. Siegel noted neither lived in Syracuse and that KEDCO should have representation on its board from someone who lived within the town limits of Syracuse.

The motion was tabled until KEDCO announces its new CEO.

Jeff Beer from Beer and Slabaugh asked for a price to pave an alley off of North Shore Drive per the town’s specifications. Doug Schrock would be covering the cost.

Stoelting asked what benefit it would be to the town. Mark Aurich, public works superintendent, said “The town has no use for an alley.” Slabaugh was thanked for his

time and the matter was dropped.

The council approved sending a letter of support for Rabbit Ridge to the Kosciusko County Board of Zoning Appeals. In the Commonwealth Engineering report, it was noted work is progressing on the North Water Tower rehab and painting. The Oakwood Force Main work is progressing well and the Kern Road sanitation sewer extension plan should be ready to present next month.

The council approved $63,900 for the annual paving and construction contract.

In department reports, David Wilkinson, town manager, asked if the town wanted to adjust its garbage collection contract. He is currently working on RFPs as the contract is up in July.

It was suggested recycling should be once a week rather than every two weeks.

Siegel also complained about the current trash collector missing picking up trash, not picking up large items once a week or picking up recycling. The council was informed an out-

REVIEWING THE AGENDA Nathan Scherer, left, president of the Syracuse Town Council, and David Wilkinson, Syracuse town

Obituaries

Sandra S. Sharp Longstanding Member Of Dutchtown Church Of The Brethren

Sandra S. Sharp, known affectionately as “Sandy”, passed away on Friday, April 12, 2024, at Miller’s Merry Manor in Warsaw at the age of 89.

She was born Sept. 17, 1934, in Huntington, to her parents, Hersel and Margaret Welker.

In her early years, Sandy grew up in the Huntington area, graduating from Huntington High School in 1954 before dedicating herself to the role of a homemaker. On March 21, 1954, she married her true love, Kenneth Sharp. The two shared a wonderful 69 years together before his passing just over a year ago in April of 2023. They spent their lives raising their three sons, Danny, Scott and Tim. Sandy was also an office secretary for several years while taking care of her family.

Sandy was a woman of many passions and interests. She found joy in playing the organ and was even a member of an organ club in Mishawaka. Additionally, she enjoyed crocheting and knitting, skills that brought warmth to those around her. Her strong faith led her to become a longstanding member of Dutchtown Church of the Brethren, where she found community and longtime friendships.

Above all else, Sandy’s proudest accomplishments were her family. She is survived by her sons, Danny (Vicki) Sharp of Milford, Scott (Cindy) Sharp of Hudsonville, Mich., and Tim (Mary) Sharp of Zeeland, Mich. Her legacy lives on through her eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, who will always cherish the memories created with their beloved grandmother. She now joins her husband, Ken, and great-grandson, Benjamin Sharp, in eternal peace. She is also reunited with her parents; sisters, Peg Young and Patsy Hefferon; and brother, David Welker, who have gone before her.

Titus Funeral Home is entrusted with the care of Sandy and her family. Friends and family may gather for visitation from 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, April 17, at Titus Funeral Home,

Kosciusko Chamber

planning candidate forum April 24 The Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce is planning a forum for local candidates running in the May 7 primary. The forum will be 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, April 24, at Warsaw City Hall, and the public is welcome to attend. The four contested GOP races to be previewed are: Northern District Kosciusko County commissioner — Marcia Baumgardner, Sue Ann

Turkey Creek Regional Sewer District has public hearing on planned improvements

By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer

The Turkey Creek Regional Sewer District held a public hearing on the preliminary engineering reports for its sewer and water improvements Monday, April 15.

The district plans to expand plant capacity and improve overall treatment and distribution of water and wastewater.

The plant’s current design capacity is 0.37 million, or 370,000 gallons per day, with a peak capacity of 2.3 million gallons per day. On annual average, the plant operates at 90% of its design capacity.

The planned expansion will take capacity up to 0.5 million, or 500,000, gallons per day.

In service of this, the district has already begun replacing old rotors and installing new ones for better aeration at the plant for an estimated cost of $739,902.

Other proposed plans for wastewater treatment and distribution include:

• Adding septic elimination improvements in the Enchanted Hills area for an estimated cost of $6,540,000.

• Adding septic elimination improvements in the Papakeechie No. 5 area for an estimated cost of $900,000.

• Replacement of asbestos cement pipe at the A1A lift station. Proposed plans for water treatment and distribution include:

• New chemical feed pumps, flow meters and pressure reducing valve for oxidizing iron and manganese at an estimated cost of $2,694,000.

• Replacement of the Enchanted Hills and Fascination place distribution system with 6-inch or 8-inch water mains, to provide fire flow, or water for fire protection purposes, at an estimated cost of $6,464,000.

• Adding a 75,000 gallon water tower in the Enchanted Hills area to significantly increase fire flow availability at an estimated

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cost of $1,927,000.

Superintendent Tim Woodward emphasized that these are proposed plans, contingent on grant funding from the State Revolving Fund.

“The only thing I know we really have to do is the rotors,” he said. Both PERs have been submitted to the SRF. The district should get their results in July or August.

A change in water rates was mentioned at March’s meeting. What impact these projects might have on water rates will be determined once the district knows how much SRF funding they will receive and a rate study is done. No members of the public came forward at the hearing, but the public comment window is still open until Monday, April 22. Turkey Creek customers can contact the office at (260) 856-4341 or info@tcrsd.com with their questions and comments. The PERs are also available to read on tcrsd.com.

In other business, John Magsam of Jones & Henry Engineers gave a brief progress update.

Mason Engineering is still working on rotors at the plant as part of the planned improvements. The work is on schedule and should be finished by the end of April.

Information on the South Shore project is still pending. The gas line at Treasure Island Marina was moved from the district’s easement, so no further action is required.

Woodward also informed the board that all four clarifiers and both ditches at the plant will be in service by the end of April and ready for the summer season.

Annual generator maintenance at the plant has been scheduled for the first week of May. The 22 generators will take about two weeks to service.

All siphon lines will be cleaned before Memorial Day weekend.

Woodward will be sending a sample from the plant to Ace Lab-

“You can’t charge people a $150 water bill, they’re not gonna pay

start within the next 2-3 weeks.

There was discussion on how to attract and retain officers. Part of the discussion revolved around take-home cars.

ey into a new account and issue them a new Social Security number. This is all false and a scam. Be advised that the U.S. Marshal’s Service will NOT call and ask for any money or monetary instrument over the telephone. Nationally, there have

The council asked for more information regarding liability regarding having a passenger in a take-home police car.

In the park report, Chad Jonsson, park superintendent, reported Arbor Day is April 26. Scherer as council president signed the annual proclamation. There will be a tree planting at Schrock Field with area third graders and others.

Touch-A-Truck will be held from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. May 4 at the Syracuse Community Center. Installation of the new roof is coming along at the communi-

information in an effort to alert the public to be aware of and on the lookout for these scams and the tactics used. If you believe you were a victim of such a scam, you are encouraged to report the incident to your local FBI offices and/or to the Federal Trade Commission. The Department of Justice launched the National Elder Fraud Hotline, which provides services to seniors who may be victims of financial fraud. Case managers assist callers with reporting the suspected fraud to relevant agencies and by providing resources and referrals to other appropriate services as needed. The hotline’s toll free number is 833-FRAUD-11 (833372-8311).

Kosciusko’s National Day Of Prayer event set for May 2

The National Day of Prayer service for Kosciusko County will be held at noon Thursday, May 2, at Rodeheaver Auditorium, 901 Park Ave., Winona Lake.

Up the Word; Light Up

is the theme. Ken Locke, of The Salvation Army, will serve as the master of ceremonies. At each table, attendees will be invited to offer up prayers for families, the nation, military, media, schools and churches. The service will be livestreamed at facebook.com/kosciuskondp and can be viewed afterward on the Kosciusko County IN National Day of Prayer YouTube channel.

1001 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. The funeral will be held at Dutchtown Church of Brethren, 4057 E. 300N, Warsaw, Thursday April 18, beginning at 11 a.m. with doors open for one hour prior. She will be laid to rest with her husband at Union Center

Kosciusko County

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

Accidents

1:23 a.m. Thursday, April 11, East McClintic Road and North CR 800E, Syracuse. Driver: Michael A. Ott, 49, South Poplar Drive, Syracuse. Ott’s vehicle left the roadway, hitting a Brightspeed utility pole. The accident caused the utility pole to break at its base. Ott was also arrested for allegedly operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Damage up to $25,000.

3:11 a.m. Monday, April 8, 1197

W. 1350N, Milford. Driver: Joshua Borkholder, 44, North CR 700E, Nappanee. Borkholder’s vehicle left the roadway, hitting a mailbox and entering a yard. His vehicle rolled during the accident and came to a rest in a field west of the driveway. Damage up to $25,000.

7:40 p.m. Wednesday, April 3, East Rainbow Lane and East Crooked Mile Road, Cromwell. Drivers: Maria D. Saldivar-Trinidad, 54, McLean Street, Ligonier; and Ashlee S. McKinney, 28, East Fort Wayne Street, Warsaw. Saldivar-Trinidad’s vehicle went left of center, hitting McKinney’s vehicle. Damage up to $10,000.

Incidents

11:05 a.m. Saturday, April 13, 5700 block of East CR 1400N, Syracuse. Burglary was reported at Maxwelton Golf Course. Value of $32,000.

9:54 a.m. Monday, April 8, 4800 block North CR 700E, Leesburg. Representatives for Lakeland Pier LLC reported the theft of a pontoon trailer. North Webster

Officers with the North Webster Police Department investigated the following incidents: Incidents

1:37 p.m. Sunday, April 14, 300 block of North Blaine Street, North Webster. Trespassing was reported.

1:14 p.m. Wednesday, April 10, 400 block West Huntington Street, North Webster. Representatives for Verizon Wireless reported identity theft. Value: $68.51. Midnight, Tuesday, April 9, 200

block of South Mulberry Street, North Webster. Fraud was reported.

Syracuse

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

Accidents

12:09 p.m. Saturday, April 13, East Pickwick Drive and South Huntington Street, Syracuse. Drivers: Darle Hoover, 62, East 91st Street, Indianapolis; and Kendra Doerr, 22, North CR 560E, Syracuse. While attempting to back up, Hoover’s vehicle struck Doerr’s vehicle. Damage up to $2,500. 3:51 p.m. Wednesday, April 10, Haug Street and East Bishop Street, Syracuse. Drivers: Kierra Enyart, 18, Brookside Manor, Goshen; and Jeffrey Currie, 47, Happiness Drive, Syracuse. While attempting to park, Enyart’s vehicle struck Currie’s vehicle. Damage up to $2,500.

7:47 a.m. Wednesday, April 10, North Huntington Street at West Main Street, Syracuse. Drivers: Lindzie Johnson, 21, Winchester Trail, Goshen; and Krista Langford, 31, Jason Drive, Fort Wayne. While attempting to back her vehicle, Johnson’s vehicle struck Langford’s vehicle. Damage up to $2,500.

Incident

1 a.m. Monday, April 15, 1000

block North Huntington Street and West Allen Street, Syracuse. Police officers responded to a domestic dispute. While on the call, officers found drug paraphernalia.

Arrest

1 a.m. Monday, April 15, 1000

block North Huntington Street at West Allen Street, Syracuse. Angel Dawn Fuller, 29, 873 S. Carrington Blvd., Warsaw, was transported and booked into the Kosciusko County Jail on charges for possession of paraphernalia and public intoxication.

Elkhart County Officers with the Elkhart County Sheriff’s Office investigated the following incident: Incident 6 p.m. Monday, April 8, 16000 block 16800 block US 6, Syracuse. Amanda Nissley, 32, New Paris, reported the theft of a propane tank.

Spall arrested for allegedly operating vehicle illegally

SPALL Dallas Blake Spall was recently arrested for allegedly driving a vehicle even though his driving privileges are suspended for life.

DALLAS BLAKE

Spall, 42, 10 EMS T42 Lane, Leesburg, is charged with operating a vehicle after forfeiture of license for life, a level 5 felony; possession of marijuana, a class B misdemeanor; and possession of paraphernalia, a class C misdemeanor.

On March 29, an Indiana State Police trooper noticed Spall driving near North Webster and confirmed Spall had a habitual traffic violator status. The trooper pulled Spall over. Spall said he had marijuana in his vehicle.

According to court documents, upon searching the vehicle, the trooper found a vape cartridge and a plastic bag containing marijuana.

Spall’s driving privileges are suspended for life, having been convicted of operating a vehicle as a habitual traffic violator in Madison County in October 2012.

Spall has already been arrested and released on bond.

Boyer arrested on drug charges

Jail Bookings

Kosciusko County

The following people were booked in the Kosciusko County Jail:

April 14 — Ray James Skelton, 57, 301 E. George St., North Webster, booked for criminal trespass. Bond: $500 cash.

April 14 — Wyatt Craig Cunnington, 20, 9200 E. Morrison Island Road, Syracuse, booked for operating without ever obtaining a license. Bond: $500 cash.

April 13 — William Andrew Glasgow, 53, 310 Alexis Drive, Milford, booked for possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, salvia. Bond: $600 cash.

April 13 — Matthew Scott Hall, 53, 9635 N. Miami Lane, Cromwell, booked for resisting law enforcement using a vehicle.

Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

April 12 — Amanda Mae Lent, 41, 700 N. Harrison St., Syracuse, booked for failure to appear and a probation violation. Bond: A combination of $5,250 surety and cash and no bond.

April 12 — Kelsea Leigh Carver, 27, 11918 N. Sir Gallahad Place, Cromwell, booked for possession of methamphetamine; possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, salvia; possession of a legend drug or precursor; maintaining a common nuisance – alcohol; and a probation violation – felony. Bond: $10,500 surety and cash.

April 12 — Anthony Keith Vanover, 42, 7420 N. Blacks Court East, North Webster, booked for possession of methamphetamine; possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, salvia; possession of paraphernalia; possession of a legend drug or precursor; and maintaining a common nuisance. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

April 9 — Carlton Joseph Harwood, 54, 9631 E. Pixie Parkway, Cromwell, booked for domestic battery with a prior unrelated conviction for aggravated battery, criminal mischief, possession of methamphetamine and possession of paraphernalia with a prior. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

Noble County

The following people were booked in the Noble County Jail:

April 10 — Tiffany D. Hale, 30, 9620 N. Sandpoint Drive, Cromwell, booked for criminal recklessness and resisting law enforcement with two priors. No bond listed.

April 6 — Kirk A. Stout, 72, 9355 W. 450N, Cromwell, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated – endangerment, operating a vehicle with a BAC between 0.05 to 0.15, and failure to appear. Bond: $7,500 cash.

been identified as the fire is still under investigation. No one was inside the house at the time of the second fire. No injuries have been reported from either.

Mitchell for Commissioner campaign forum, meet and greet

at 4:19 a.m. When the fire later rekindled, Tippecanoe-Township and Turkey Creek responded again, along with assists from Leesburg and Pierceton fire departments. Tippecanoe-Township Fire Territory’s Assistant Chief Dave Rensberger noted that a floor in the house had been covered with clothes and posited the fire could have restarted there without being seen on a thermal camera. The definitive cause has not

Sue Ann Mitchell, candidate for Kosciusko County Commissioner-Northern District, in partnership with her supporters

Senator Ryan Mishler, Jon Garber, Avis Gunter, Jim Jarrett, Jean Northenor, Linda Sanders, Joe Thallemer and Ernie Wiggins, will hold a forum from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Monday, April 22.

The event will be at the Zimmer Biomet Center Lake Pavilion located at 119 E. Canal St., in Warsaw.

Friends, supporters and interested parties are invited to come share some time and hear Mitchell’s vision on the position of commissioner. The event is open to the public and there is no charge to attend.

SUE ANN MITCHELL

NATHANIEL KEEGAN BOYER

Nathaniel Keegan Boyer was arrested on drug charges after officers responded to a report of a reckless driver. Boyer, 33, 9006 E. Circle Drive South, Syracuse, is charged with unlawful possession or use of a legend drug, a level 6 felony; and possession of marijuana and leaving the scene of an accident, both class B misdemeanors.

On March 11, a North Webster police officer responded to a report of a reckless driver. A person reported a driver, later identified as Boyer, crossing the center line of a roadway and hitting a stop sign. The officer found Boyer and attempted to speak with him.

According to court documents, when Boyer attempted to speak, his words were slurred. Boyer admitted to drinking alcohol, and the officer found an empty bottle of vodka in Boyer’s vehicle. He also said he did not know if he hit anything with his vehicle.

A responding Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office deputy located a damaged stop sign and a detached street sign in the area of Washington and East streets in North Webster. Damage to Boyer’s vehicle was consistent with hitting the stop sign.

Upon further searching Boyer’s vehicle, officers found a glass jar containing THC and a pill identified as a legend drug. Boyer tested 0.25% BrAC on a portable breath test. Surveillance footage from a nearby business showed Boyer hitting the two signs with his vehicle. Boyer has already been arrested and released on bond.

Two vehicle accident south of Syracuse

By KEITH KNEPP Staff Writer

Shortly after noon Monday, April 15, Turkey Creek Fire/EMS Territory were dispatched to a two-vehicle accident on SR 13 at CR 900N, approximately one mile south of Wawasee Middle School. Upon arrival, first responders found a black Chevrolet Silverado pickup resting on its roof, as well as a white Chevrolet Suburban SUV with moderate front end damage. Occupants of both vehicles

were treated at the scene by Turkey Creek EMS. According to Fire Chief Mickey Scott, no one was transported from the scene.

No additional information was available at press time.

Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office also responded to the scene.

Stillwater Hospice gives county council first quarterly update

By

executive in charge of numerous state agencies including the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, Office

freedom, fiscal responsibility, economic growth, health freedom, parental rights, athletic fairness, education and second amendment rights. Her campaign slogan is “Rebuild, Revive, Rejoice!” Jennifer McCormick

McCormick is a lifelong educator and Indiana native. She earned her undergraduate degree from Purdue University, her master’s degree from Ball State University and her education specialist degree and Ph.D. from Indiana State University. McCormick and her husband, Trent, share a son, a West Point graduate and member of the United States Army.

in nonprofit funding from the county.

Going over the highlights of her quarterly report, Friedel said they are going into year two of Kosciusko County Home Care & Hospice having merged with Stillwater, which took place March 1, 2023.

For the first quarter of this year (January through March), Stillwater Hospice served 59 Kosciusko County residents and their families for a total of 2,747 days “where we walked alongside those patients and their loved ones as they face serious illness,” she said.

For each hospice patient they serve, Friedel said they raise about $7.50 for all of the additional services they provide not covered by reimbursement. In the first quarter of 2024, she said they allocated over $20,600 to support the Kosciusko County hospice patients and residents. “Thanks to your gift, that is possible,” Friedel stated. Stillwater Hospice has also provided grief counseling to those in the Kosciusko community.

They’ve done 91 bereavement outreach support visits and provided individual grief counseling to one resident who had lost a partner to an accidental fentanyl overdose. They provided a local grief support group in January and February in Kosciusko County.

Councilman Tony Ciriello said the report provided from Stillwater met all the expectations and was very comprehensive in explaining how they spent the county’s money.

In other business, the County Council:

• Approved Sheriff Jim Smith’s request for a $37,535 additional appropriation for wages for a resource navigator position at the Kosciusko County Jail.

The K21 Health Foundation awarded the sheriff’s office a $154,500 grant to pay for the first two years of that position, with the understanding the sheriff’s office would apply for another two years after the first 1-1/2 years of the position. K21 traditionally doesn’t award grants for more than two years at a time, Smith said.

In conjunction with that, the council approved a salary ordinance amendment for the resource navigator at $50,954 annually.

• Approved KCSO Chief Deputy Chris McKeand’s request to apply for two federal grants, both to fund contractual services in the Kosciusko Community Recovery Program.

“Those services would be to bring in the peer recovery coaches, additional mental health, actually for the services for the inmates inside the jail,” he said.

The first grant is through the U.S. Department of Justice and is a 2024 Improving Adult and Youth Stabilization and Community Reentry Program grant for up to $825,000 over three years. McKeand said the due date for the grant application is April 30, and, if awarded, the grant start date would be Oct. 1, 2024, through Sept. 30, 2027. The second grant is also through the U.S. Department of Justice and is a 2024 Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Program grant, also known as Improving Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Recovery Outcomes for Adults and Reentry. Grant due date is May 13, 2024, with the same start dates as the prior grant.

The maximum grant amount possible is $833,000 over three years. McKeand said it would be for the same services for the Community Outreach Program.

Both are reimburseable nationally competitive grants that don’t require any matching funds. The County Commissioners approved the request on Tuesday.

• Approved 13 additional appropriations into the county’s Health First Indiana project, as requested by Health Department Administrator Bob Weaver. The council also approved a

bond for Rabbit Ridge.

Dennis Otten, an attorney with Bose, McKinney and Ev-

salary ordinance amendment for the prenatal care coordinator who is reaching a new anniversary level in her employment with the county, as requested by Weaver.

• Approved the two additional appropriations presented by Kosciusko County Highway Department Superintendent Steve Moriarty. One is a $40,000 railroad crossing grant for advance warning pavement markings, which is a 100% reimburseable grant. The other is a 50/50 Community Crossing matching grant, with part of that being $776,714 for work on bridge 320 off Armstrong Road and the other part being $781,750 for road reconstruction.

• Approved an additional appropriation for $360 from American Rescue Plan Act funds, as requested by County Administrator Marsha McSherry. She said there was a typo on the original paperwork moving money from last year to this year so to correct that the appropriation is needed. That will close out the account for the grant given to the Kosciusko County Convention & Visitors Bureau for a digital sign.

• Approved a request for a $120,000 additional appropriation and a $32,000 transfer from Bob Momeyer, systems administration, for computer maintenance, hardware and software.

• Approved a request for a $20,300 additional appropriation from County Assessor Gail Chapman for group health insurance. Chapman also presented a request for another vehicle for her office for property assessment work, which was approved. The commissioners approved the purchase Tuesday.

• Approved March encumbrancers totaling $1,286,350.44, as requested by County Auditor Rhonda Helser.

• Heard an annual report on the county’s tax increment financing districts from Councilwoman and Redevelopment Commission President Joni Truex.

• Heard a quarterly update on the Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program from

ans, explained the economic development commission makes recommendations to the Syracuse Town Council regarding projects and funding.

CLEANING THE DEBRIS — Firefighters from Turkey Creek Fire Territory clean up the roadway following a two-vehicle accident on SR 13 Monday, April 15. Photo by Keith Knepp.

Young girls tennis squad opens season

By NATHAN PACE Sports Writer

Wawasee girls tennis began the season at home against defending sectional champion Westview Wednesday, April 10. The match showed the team where it needs to improve as Westview earned a 5-0 sweep. Westview swept the varsity and junior varsity matches, but host Wawasee did win three reserve contests. Winning matches for Wawasee were Carissa Knepper, Sophia Smith and Alecia Miller.

“Our match wasn’t exactly what we wanted but we did have three people who won,” Wawasee coach Amanda Hare said. Juniors Mackenzie Hackleman and Molly Beer opened the season as the No. 1 and No. 2 singles players on the team. Hackleman lost 6-1, 6-0 and Beer lost 6-1, 6-1. Junior Josie Saban played No. 3 singles and was defeated 6-0, 6-0. The most competitive varsity match was at No. 1 doubles for the Wawasee senior duo of Allison Clark and Kenley Stewart,

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Wawasee

Roundup

Boys Golf

April 13 — The boys golf team began the season at the Fort Wayne Northrop Invitational and finished in fourth place. Junior Maddux Everingham led the team with an 83 on the day. His brother, Myles Everingham, was tied for second as he shot an 85. Preston Scherer also shot an 85. Rounding out the scoring was senior Weston DeLong with an 88.

The junior varsity team was second in its invite and was led with an 88 by Maddux Ringler.

April 16 — Wawasee earned a 168-187 win against Central Noble Tuesday at the Cobblestone Golf Course. Myles Everingham earned the top medalist spot with a score of 38. Maddux Everingham scored a 40 and Scherer finished with a 43. DeLong ended the evening with a 47, Mason Shoemaker a 48 and Ringler a 52. The junior varsity team won its match 210-222. In dual-meets, Wawasee is 1-0. The varsity team will next host Fairfield and West Noble at 4:30 p.m. Monday, April 22. The junior varsity team will travel to Plymouth on Saturday, April 20.

Unified Track and Field

April 13 — The Unified track team took on 10 teams at the Elkhart Invite, finishing seventh overall.

“We competed in one of the biggest unified meets in the state. We were one of the smaller teams by far but I am

proud of how our team battled,” coach Andrew Wilson said.

Wawasee won two events as Tyler Pinkerton was first in the long jump and Emma Lohan was first in shot put. Eric Wetzel was second in shot put and Gavin Hettinger was second in the 100 meter dash.

Aidan Cabeen finished third in the 100. Dom Ward was third in shot put and Gabe Cadena third in long jump.

“We also had a 19 personal best attempts across our team including Gabe Ward in shot put, Brooklyn Roose in long jump and 100, Adrianne Hollar in long jump and 100m, Hayley Maynus in shot put and 100 and finally Laina Bevelhimer in 100m,” Wilson said.

Wawasee will have its lone home meet of the season Friday, April 19. The seniors on the team will be recognized at 5:15 p.m.

Boys Track and Field April 13 — The Wawasee boys were fifth at the Carmon Cripe Relays at Northridge with a team score of 54. With 10 full teams competing, Wawasee beat out Culver, Elkhart, Goshen, Lakeland and Marian. The Warriors finished behind Westview, NorthWood, Northridge and meet champion Angola. Wawasee won one event in the 4x200 relay. Wawasee will compete with Goshen and Northridge at Goshen on Thursday, April 18, with a 5:30 p.m. start.

Allen earns 500 strikeouts, routs Warsaw

Wawasee senior Haylee Allen needed just four strikeouts to reach 500 for her career Monday, April 15, against Warsaw and it took less than two innings to get the achievement. Allen struck out 12 batters as the Lady Warriors defeated the Tigers 12-2 in six innings.

Allen was surprised when her teammates created posters and signs to celebrate the moment she reached 500 strikeouts.

“It feels amazing and everyone surprised me with the signs. That was really cool because I didn’t know it was happening,” Allen said. “It meant so much to me that everyone cared so much about my milestone and it feels like I’ve really accomplish something.”

The team made a unique pair of sunglasses for when a pitcher earns a high number of strikeouts and Allen, who will pitch at Bethel University next year, wore them for a team photo after the win. The letter “K” for strikeout was featured on the glasses. Another set of sunglasses is presented when a player hits a home run. It was the second time for the juniors and seniors on the roster for Wawasee to beat Warsaw, but the first time the Warriors were able to run-rule the rival Tigers since 2015.

“I think that this year we are a great team and we’re going to place really high. Winning this and run-ruling this in our first conference game is really going to show the other people in the conference how good we are this year,” Allen said. Coach Chloe McRobbie says Allen and her teammates are reasserting Wawasee as a strong softball program.

“She’s definitely made a name for herself and she’s leaving her legacy for Wawasee softball. Everyone in the NLC knows her name and respects her. For her to receive that accolade and at home was awesome,” McRobbie said. “I think it sets a tone for what Wawasee softball is about. We are trying to play our game no matter who we play and I think

that is going to show the NLC ‘Hey we’re here. We’re a new team this year and we’re stronger than we’ve ever been.’”

While Allen allowed just two hits from the circle in the game, her teammates found their form at the plate with 11 hits and six RBIs. Underclassmen in freshman Kenadi Pierce and sophomore Abigail Wiley led the team with two hits each.

Sophomore Makenna Halsey scored the final run to end the game in six innings when she stole home. The Warsaw catcher overthrew the pitcher with Halsey on third base. Halsey then took off knowing she could beat a throw and tag to the home plate. The Warriors are on a threegame winning streak after victories against Triton on Saturday, April 13, an also Manchester Friday, April 12. The 2-1 victory over Manchester was thanks to the first home run for freshman Ashlynn Corn in her career. Wawasee needed just five innings to beat Triton 14-4. Junior Evelyn Duncan hit a home run in the game while also pitching all five innings with nine strikeouts. Junior Ava Couture tied Duncan for a team-high in RBIs with three each.

The Warriors are 6-1 despite having to play younger players due to injuries. “We’ve had some injuries the last couple games. Three of our seniors and starters have been out from injury. We’ve had a lot of younger girls step in and really get the job done when we needed it. We’re still moving people around and putting them in different positions. I think this team has a lot going on,” McRobbie said. Wawasee will take on Mishawaka at home 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 17. Another conference game follows on the road with NorthWood 5:30 p.m. Friday, April 19.

Wawasee girls track returns from break with strong showing

By NATHAN PACE Sports Writer

Wawasee girls track and field took

Mia Hodgson controlled both distance events

a

of 5:33.51 in the 1600, and the 3200 at a mark of 12:45.27. Hodgson won another event in the 4x800 relay with her teammates in Addison Delagrange, Jasmine Hernandez and Reese Beasley. Addie Powell captured the 400 meter race at a time of 1:04.79. The Lady Warriors also had first place showings in the field events with senior Emma Yoder in discus at a distance of 130’1”. Senior Brooklynn Gibson won the shot put a distance of 33’8” and senior Kaydence Shepherd won the long jump a mark of 15’9”. The Wawasee girls competed in the Carmon Cripe Relays at Northridge High School on Saturday, April 13. Going up against over a dozen teams, Wawasee placed third overall with a team score of 54. Host Northridge won the event with a score of 60.5 and Concord was a close second at 58.5. Wawasee earned first place in three events in the long jump, shot put and discus. The Lady Warriors competed against Warsaw and NorthWood Tuesday, April 16. While Warsaw got the better of Wawasee, the Lady Warriors did knock off

Continued on page 7

Salazar led the way with six.

WAWASEE HIGH SCHOOL Athlete of the Month

Titus Funeral Home Would Like To Recognize Evelyn Duncan

As Our Athlete Of The Month

Evelyn Duncan is a Junior softball player at Wawasee High School. Evelyn has aided in the 5-1 start to the season for Wawasee Softball. In the last 5 games she has recorded 7 hits, including a homerun and 5 RBI’s. Along with her success offensively, she has also contributed as a pitcher for the Lady Warriors comprising 9 innings pitched and 11 strikeouts. Off of the softball diamond, Evelyn is part of student council at WHS, a member of 4-H and part of the Kosciusko Endowment Youth Services team.

Warsaw had a slight edge in hits at 9-7 but Wawasee was charged with four errors to just one for Warsaw. Brooks was three of four from the plate to lead the Warriors with three hits in the contest. Cripe had the lone RBI for the Warriors in the loss. Wawasee will travel to Mishawaka for another NLC game at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 17.

CLUTCH WEEKEND — Wawasee junior Josie Saban had two key wins at the Jimtown Invite Saturday, April 13, to give Wawasee two victories at the event. Photo by Nathan Pace.

ANOTHER BATTER RETIRED — Wawasee pitcher Haylee Allen reached 500 career strikeouts in the second inning Monday, April 15, of Wawasee’s 12-2 win over Warsaw.

FIRST HOMER — Wawasee freshman Ashlynn Corn, right, is congratulated by junior Ava Couture following hitting her first ever home run in high school on Friday, April 12, in a 2-1 win over Manchester.

Where do you get to experience British, colonial American and

military camps, a Potawatomi Native village, cannon and muskets firing and 18th century artisans and shopping opportunities, all in one location?

Five Medals at The Trace, coming up in May, is a living history educational experience geared toward the entire family, allowing all to become immersed in the area’s history. The event spans the middle 1600s up through the War of 1812.

Black powder flintlock and artillery demonstrations also are held. Visitors can interact with participants in the woodland Native, French civilian and military, British military and colonial/U.S. military encampments.

This year’s Five Medals at The Trace takes place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 4, through 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, May 5, with Friday, May 3, earmarked as school visitation

Five Medals at The Trace features nearly 200 re-enactors and demonstrators, including one-ofa-kind shopping opportunities with early American merchants, live colonial music, penny whistle workshops, a period-correct Punch & Judy Show, blacksmithing, tinsmithing, woodworking, flint-knapping, rope-making, open-fire cooking and baking, soap-making, paper filigree, watercolor artistry, millinery, colonial beekeeping, natural fabric dyeing, spinning and wool carding, basket weaving, pottery, an oxen team and even a chocolatier, all ongoing throughout the event.

day. The event is held at Stone’s Trace, a privately owned historical park located just south of Ligonier at the intersection of US 33 and SR 5. Visitors will find woodlands-to-grasslands transition areas, several log cabins, shopping opportunities and early American crafts and food options. Parking is available at at West Noble High School. Five Medals at The Trace is presented by Five Medals Living History Inc., a 501(C)3 nonprofit organization.

History Of Five Medals On Aug. 3, 1795, at Fort Greenville, in what would become Ohio, a treaty was signed. Present were several whose names may be familiar to people from the region: Anthony Wayne, Little Turtle, William Henry Harri-

son, Blue Jacket, William Wells, White Pigeon, William Clark, Topinabee, Meriwether Lewis, Winamac and a highly regarded chief of the Elkhart River Band of Potawatomi named Wonongaseah, or Wa-weeg-she, as his name was inscribed on the treaty next to his mark.

Wonongaseah is roughly translated as “Five Coins” or “Five Medals” and, combined with the numerous peace medallions he had accumulated, the chief became known simply as “Five Medals.” He signed at least six treaties of either peace or land cession.

His village was located on the Elkhart River, northwest of present-day Ligonier. He traveled with Little Turtle to Philadelphia in 1796, where he met President George Washington, and in 1801 to Washington D.C., where he delivered an oration to President Thomas Jefferson. He worked tirelessly to improve relations with the westward expanding European-Americans and made several efforts to bring modern agricultural practices to his and other local villages.

The Battle of Tippecanoe on Nov. 7, 1811, ignited the entire region and Five Medals, under the influence of Tecumseh, found himself at the Siege of Fort Wayne in September 1812. General Harrison’s troops relieved the siege and immediately conducted retaliatory raids upon area villages. Five Medals’ village was partially destroyed in September 1812 and was attacked again in June 1813. Five Medals and his people removed themselves to the Detroit area for the remainder of the war.

Saturday, April 13, Wawasee was played three matches at the Jimtown Invite and finished second out of four teams competing. The Warriors lost to the host Jimmies 3-2, but did take both double matches. Clark and Stewart went a perfect 3-0 on the day and Hannah Likens and Gerber won their first against Jimtown 6-0, 6-4 at No. 2

doubles. Hackleman was playing in a club basketball tournament so junior Ella Beer stepped into play at No. 1 singles but was defeated. Tourney gave No. 1 singles a try in

ciding point at No. 3 singles to claim the match.

To close out the day, Wawasee defeated South Bend Adams in another 3-2 result. Clark and Stewart earned their third doubles victory of the day, 6-4, 6-4. Beer and Sabin captured the No. 2 and No. 3 singles matches, both with tiebreakers, to give Wawasee the three points. “Great day of tennis with long matches,” Hare said. “Started at 9 a.m. and ended at 4 p.m.”

The Warriors lost Monday, April 15, 4-1 to Central Noble. Clark and Stewart claimed the lone point at No. 1 doubles with a 6-3,6-1 victory.

Community Corner

Dillon takes the helm of the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce

By LAUREN ZEUGNER Staff Writer

When the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce announced it had a new director, area business owners were thrilled to learn it was someone they knew.

Ashley Dillon had worked in the area for 20 years, first with the Sleepy Owl and then The Owl’s Nest. She started with The Sleepy Owl when her daughter, Addison, was three weeks old.

At the time, Dillon was looking for a parttime gig. Soon the catering side of The Sleepy Owl started to take off, with her and Chip Erwin doing a lot of door knocking.

“Having that experience helped with my new job,” she said.

As The Sleepy Owl expanded into catering, Dillon was doing house parties, catering events at Oakwood.

She said that experience helps her in her new position as director of the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce. “I understand the struggle of a seasonal town, the struggle to start a business from scratch,” she said.

When the position became open, Dillon was looking to make a career change. Her kids, Hunter, 15, and Addison, 13, are active in football and cheerleading.

Her husband, Dustin, has been very supportive of her.

Dillon wanted to spend more time with her children and extended family in the area.

“I’m very family oriented,“ she said. “I don’t want to miss anything. I wanted more (work/life) balance.”

She took the job as chamber director because she wanted to have an impact and made a difference in the community. Since she’s started, 40 new businesses have joined the chamber. She’s worked to make events bigger and is working with David Wilkinson, town manager, on a beautification project that will unite the uptown with Wawasee Village. She’s also overseeing the renovation of the Chamber of Commerce’s office, which is located at 207 N. Huntington St., just south of Crosson Mill Park. The renovation is tentatively scheduled to be done by Memorial Day.

She also wants to work with the art department at Wawasee High School to refurbish the red canoes around town.

In addition to her work with the chamber,

to wait through the winter for club opening. This past weekend, club members opened the club for the upcoming sailing season. Coffee, cake and various cookies and treats provided the needed encouragement for members and their children. The Sunfish and the O’Pen Bics used for the popular summer junior

regatta for 19foot sailboats, is planned for Sept. 28-29.

Over the summer, several social events fill the weekends beginning with the Summer Kick-off Party and Open House on June 22. All are welcome to take part in the Open Sail at 2 p.m. June 29. The

ALMOST DONE — Ashley Dillon, executive director of the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce, stands on the porch of the chamber offices. The chamber office has been undergoing renovations both inside and out, thanks to numerous donations from chamber members. Dillon wants the chamber to be an information hub for those visiting the area as well as an advocate for

a couple of our coalitions actually receive work plans directly from the state Department of Health and we implement them here in Kosciusko County. And then we actually do a process called ‘Strategic Doing’ for five of our committees, our well-being committees, where we actually have individuals in the community who come together, who work together on projects in those five areas of well-being. And so those individuals actually pick their projects and work towards implementing their projects in the community,” she said.

Besides the IDOH, Live Well Kosciusko also receives funding from the K21 Health Foundation, the Kosciusko County Community Foundation, the Zimmer Biomet Foundation and other types of funding streams.

new location will allow Live Well Kosciusko to continue to grow and to be able to continue to provide the services the organization currently provides, as well additional services.

now has five employees, she said.

Harmon explained Live Well Kosciusko is a nonprofit organization that focuses on health and well-being issues. Some of its coalitions include its cancer, breathe well and tobacco-free coalitions.

“We work with substance abuse and recovery. And we have five pillars of well-being, which (are) community, career purpose, social, financial and physical,” she said.

Live Well Kosciusko receives some funding from the Indiana Department of Health and “so

When asked what Harmon thinks the benefits are of the organization, she said, “For example, our tobacco and vaping coalition —- Breathe Well — we actually work with our community to help, for example, kids with education and understand they shouldn’t be starting vaping and how vaping is harmful for them.”

Live Well Kosciusko also works with employers so they’re implementing the best practices for cancer care for people who are struggling with cancer.

Harmon said she hopes the

BOOK BOOGIE WINNERS Milford Elementary School awarded prizes to its March Book Boogie winners Friday, April 12.

20 YEARS AGO, APRIL 14, 2004

30 YEARS AGO, APRIL 13, 1994

The 16 new Leisure Living Apartments, located on East Catherine Street in Milford, are ready for residents to move into. An open house will be held for the community to view the apartments from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 19.

Isaac and Sandra Cantu, P.O. Box 451, Milford, are the parents of a daughter, Amanda Elizabeth, born at 10:37 a.m. Thursday, March 31, 1994, in Michiana Community Hospital, South Bend. She weighed 6 pounds, 7 1/2 ounces and measured 20 inches in length.

Rachel Beer, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Nelson Beer, Milford, placed first in the senior division (grades 10-12) of the recent Chopin Youth Piano Competition. Rachel participated in the contest via a tape recording of her performing Chopin’s Waltz in A flat major.

40 YEARS AGO, APRIL 18, 1984

Kelly Phillips has been promoted to the position of swine industry product manager for Chore-Time Equipment, according to Brad Donahue, general manager for the

Kayla Sweatland, 4, helped her sister, Rachael, 2, find one last egg as they participated in an Easter egg hunt held Saturday, April 10, at Milford School grounds. The event was sponsored by the Milford Kiwanis Club and participants were given money for the eggs they collected. Easter baskets were donated by Lakeland Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center. It’s time to spruce up at Waubee Lake Park. Caretaker Tim McGee was painting the merry-go-round at the playground by the beach Friday afternoon. The bright red, yellow and blue will surely brighten up the playground toy for the warmer season ahead.

Milford firm. A native of Centerville, Iowa, and a 1970 graduate of Iowa State University, Phillips, his wife Esme and two children are planning to relocate to Milford from Madrid, Iowa.

Rumor has been circulating that Dr. Floyd Rheinheimer will retire this year. This is unfounded. The

doctor will take a sabbatical this summer and another doctor will come to Milford, live in the Rheinheimer home and assist Dr. Dick while the Rheinheimers are gone.

50 YEARS AGO, APRIL 17, 1974

Mr. and Mrs. John Chambers and Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Bushing of Waubee Lake have returned after a two-week fishing vacation along the Saint John river in Florida.

Lydia Tucker of Milford won first place in the 1973-74 county Women’s Christian Temperance Union essay contest which was held recently for junior high school students. Miss Tucker’s paper will be entered in the state contest. Miss Kathy Weisser, six-yearold daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Weisser of r 1 Milford, presented a piano solo, “Christ the Lord is Risen Today,” as special music during the children’s opening worship service on Easter Sunday at the Bethel Church of the Brethren.

10 YEARS AGO, APRIL 16, 2014

Plans for Dixie Day dominated the meeting of the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce Monday. Chamber President Sue Ward with board members Brenda Peterson in charge of the 5K run; Stacey Cox heading the food vendors; Karilyn Metcalf, chamber booth; Jeremy Likens, barricades; and Ward, the art fair. Chris Waldrop will chair the car show.

North Webster Town Council moved one step closer to obtaining a grant to assist with bringing the current wastewater treatment plant and sewer system in compliance with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s required standards at its April meeting.

The repair the roof campaign has begun for the North Webster Community Center. NWCC was awarded a $50,000 matching fund grant from K21 toward this endeavor. They must raise a minimum of $50,000 toward this project to receive K21 funds. The overall grand total needed for the project is $200,000.

20 YEARS AGO, APRIL 14, 2004

A letter of resignation from North Webster Town Council President Kay Andrews was read by Jon Sroufe at the opening of Tuesday’s meeting of North Webster Town Council. Sroufe is acting as interim “reader of the agenda” until a new member is designated by county Republican Chairman Mike Gavin and a new council president can be chosen.

13, North Webster, in the industrial park.

safety and Lunetta Metcalf, citizenship, gave reports.

50 YEARS AGO, APRIL 17, 1974

Toshimi Kinugoshi, an elementary school teacher from Japan, visited North Webster Elementary School on Tuesday to observe how classes in the United States operate. Kinugoshi was accompanied by Hannah Mort, an American now living in Kashiwazaki, Japan. Mort’s grandmother, Noreta Mort, volunteers at the elementary school.

The Medtronic Foundation has awarded the North Webster Day Care a grant in the amount of $4,500 to use for a scholarship funding program.

30 YEARS AGO, APRIL 13, 1994

North Webster Fire Department, with mutual aid from Syracuse Fire Department, responded to a fire at The Shop, 7194 N. SR

ics pre-press department. Must have experience in working with InDesign plus excellent typing skills, spelling and design skills. This position is located in Milford, IN and is not a remote position.

David Miller, Ph. D., program director of Goshen College’s Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center in Wolf Lake, was guest speaker at the Monday morning meeting of Lakeland Kiwanis Club at North Webster Church of God.

40 YEARS AGO, April 18, 1984

Katherine Coy gave the opening prayer when members of Lydia Circle met at the home of Hilda Mock. Rosemary Sellers served as co-hostess. Verna Lindemood was a special guest. Helen Jones gave the lesson, “Hispanic Women in United Methodism.” Mrs. Mock and Mrs. Sellers served refreshments.

Charm and Chatter Club members met at the home of Lois Blaugh. Guests present were Ruth Mickley and Barbara Vollmer. Dorothy Snoke read minutes of the last meeting and the treasurer’s report. Susie Ward gave devotions. Mrs. Blaugh, gardening; Helen Kline, health and

Mrs. Roy Spry was hostess for the April 8 meeting of North Webster Pythian Sisters. Sherry Bower assisted her. A moment of silence was observed in memory of Louise Carder. Guests present were Iva Carpenter, Clarabelle Demeree and Grace Snellenberger, all of Warsaw. Charm ‘N Chatter Home Extension club met recently at the home of Mrs. James McNabb. Mrs. Bell Metcalf presented the meditation. Mrs. Cliff Schang gave the citizenship report as well. Mrs. Vern Hunt, garden chairman, discussed “What is a garden.” Mrs. Sherm Bryant gave a report concerning the membership tea. Mrs. Arthur Osborn was accepted as a new member. Lydia Circle of North Webster United Methodist Church held its April 9 meeting at the home of Mrs. Edna Thomas. Mrs. Paul Kline gave the lesson.

It happened in Syracuse ... 50 years ago

Senior Mothers take trip to Greece

10 YEARS AGO, APRIL 16, 2014

Black Hawk College recently inducted 53 students into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society chapter at the college’s east campus. The new members include 21 fall 2013 and 32 spring 2014 inductees. Agatha Dumford, Syracuse, was inducted into the honor society.

Stevi Coffin and Josh Auer, Syracuse, are the parents of a son, Noah Lee Anthony, born at 2:12 a.m. April 12, 2014, at IU Health Goshen Hospital. He weighed 7 pounds, 2.8 ounces and was 19 1/2 inches long.

20 YEARS AGO, APRIL 14, 2004

The Syracuse-Wawasee Trail Committee, a part of Syracuse Park Foundation, received its first grant from the OMC Foundation. The check arrived Tuesday and is for $50,000. The committee is working on raising necessary funds to start the first segment of the trail which will link Syracuse Community Center to Wawasee High School. Accepting the check were Jeff Noffsinger, project consultant; Larry Siegel; Robin Kaercher, grant writer; Matt Kitson; and Michael Hixenbaugh. Knights of Columbus Francis Pitka Council 6323 of Syracuse recently made a donation to Syracuse Community Hands 4-H Club in the amount of $900. Accepting the check were club members Heidi and Holly Kolberg. Don Bokhart, Knights’ representative, presented the check. The Knights members are pleased to be able to support local youth activities.

30 YEARS AGO, APRIL 13, 1994

What a vacation Terry, Beth and Ryan Skaggs, Washington Street, Syracuse, had at Myrtle Beach, S.C. Not only were there beautiful blue skies, but the temperatures were in the mid-70s. Terry says no golf was played during this family vacation, just relaxation by sitting on the beach.

Gary and Nancy Whetten, owners of Bud’s Bar and Nancy’s Resale in Milford, and owners

of a home on North Road, Lake Wawasee, have purchased the home and 3.5 acres of the Wilbur Ward estate on the north edge of the town limits on Huntington Street, Syracuse. The house, built in 1900, is being remodeled by the Whettens, who hope to move into it by Memorial Day weekend.

40 YEARS AGO, APRIL 18, 1984

Patti and Wayne VanCuren are two people who know how to show appreciation. They were so grateful for work performed by Syracuse fireman and police during and after their recent $30,000 fire at their Frog Tavern that they had these two groups and their wives out for a full blown dinner — on the house.

Ground breaking ceremonies for the Turkey Creek Township Fire Station II will be in the near future, according to Larry Singleton, a member of the group who has been working on the fire station. Singleton announced Monday, April 16, that the contract had been signed. The new fire station will be built near the pool at Enchanted Hills and house at least one fire truck. Syracuse firemen have met with the new volunteers for the station and are starting training on the use of equipment.

50 YEARS AGO, APRIL 17, 1974

Miss Linda Shively, Syracuse, was graduated from the business office accounting program of International junior college in Fort Wayne on March 29. Miss Shively graduated from Wawasee high school with the class of 1972. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Allen Shively of 225 W. Brooklyn, Syracuse.

Seventeen members of the Senior Mothers club at Syracuse met Monday night in the home of Mrs. Robert Justus with Miss Katharine Rothenberger of Syracuse taking members on a trip to Greece. Miss Rothenberger told of many interesting tales of her recent trips taken to Greece.

be stepping into the role of young adult librarian while Momeyer will be serving as youth cataloger.

A long-time library user, Momeyer is very excited to begin working at NWCPL. She shares, “I am super excited to be here. And helping set up and run the spring break Candy Land program was a fantastic way to kick off my journey here.”

Driscoll brings with her a wealth of experience in youth programming from her previous position at Bridgman Public Library in southwest Michigan. Eager to immerse herself once again in the library world, she looks forward to contributing to the North Webster community. As a resident of North Webster, Driscoll holds a deep affection for this town and enjoys living on the lake.

Library staff invites you to extend a warm welcome to Momeyer and Driscoll during your next visit to the library.

Syracuse Public Library — Families to paint flowerpots

Families will get creative during the Syracuse Public Library’s Family Fun Night at 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 23, in the downstairs meeting room. Participants will paint flowerpots using the library’s extensive paint collection. The library asks families to wear clothing they don’t mind getting dirty, though librarians will have painting aprons available for use.

Snacks will also be provided by the library during this free activity. Flowerpots are available on a firstcome, first-served basis.

Knit And Crochet Club Knitters and crocheters are invited to bring their latest projects to the library for a cozy fiber arts session at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 23, in the upstairs sitting area. Beginners and learners are also invited to attend and learn tips from experienced knitters and crocheters.

Children’s Programming

Storytime and home school class meet at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 24, for the last time before the May break. During storytime, preschoolers will continue to learn about the alphabet while enjoying picture books, songs and play. Each session usually includes a letter-themed craft.

Students in grades 1-3 will learn about health and nutrition during home school class.

Adult Book Club

The adult book club will meet at 1 p.m. Thursday, April 25, in the downstairs meeting room to discuss “The Midnight Library,” a fantasy novel by Matt Haig. A virtual discussion will occur at 6 p.m. on April 25 via Zoom. For information or to receive a Zoom invitation, email Emilia Layne at elayne@syracuse.

lib.in.us.

Anime Club

Young adults who love anime should join SPL’s anime club, which meets from 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 25, in the Rosalyn Jones Room. Group members will vote on an anime to watch, choosing from offerings on Crunchyroll. As a note, some anime may contain mature topics. For information, email Amber Cox at ajcox@syracuse.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 Writer’s Corner will be meeting at 10 a.m. Monday, April 22. This month’s writing theme is: “Your pet rabbit is secretly the Easter Bunny and you are getting ready to go on vacation. Write a list of instructions for the pet sitter without giving away your Bunny’s identity.”

Meditation Monday will be happening at 5:30 p.m. Monday, April 22. Come learn relaxation techniques and coping mechanisms for life’s stressors from Karrah Teruya. Exercise classes will be happening at the library this week. Get Fit While You Sit chair exercise will be meeting at 10:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Thursday, April 25. Let’s Move Dance class will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, April 25. These classes are free and open to the public, no library card required.

Teen Events Join in for a special Teen Board Game Night at 3:30 p.m. Monday, April 22. Students in grades 6-12 are invited to the library for classic board games like Battleship and Connect Four, along with card games such as Nertz and Exploding Kittens. Party favorites such as Werewolf and trivia will also be included. No registration required.

NWCPL will be hosting a teen nature walk at 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 24. Meet at the North Webster Elementary School hiking trail for a fun and educational outdoor experience. This event will be happening rain or shine, so make sure to dress for the weather. No registration required.

Children’s Events Certified therapy dog, Irish, will be waiting for you during the PAWS-to-Read program from 5:306:30 p.m. Monday, April 22. This event provides a comfortable and judgment-free zone for kids to read and interact with Irish. Sign up for

a 15-minute appointment by calling the library at (574) 834-7122. Story times will be happening this week. Baby and Toddler Time will be meeting at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 23. Preschool Storytime will be meeting at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 24. Registration is appreciated, but visitors are always welcome. For more information about any library events, call (574) 834-7122, visit the library’s website nwcpl. org or click into the library’s Facebook page.

future of financial services with groundbreaking approaches by a really creative team,” she added.

Milford Public Library — Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award

The Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award is an initiative of the Indiana Center for the Book program. This state award is administered by the Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Committee made up of professionals in Indiana including teachers, librarians, caregivers and project coordinators; all of whom are involved in early childhood development.

Picture books serve an important role in the first years of the life of a child. The purpose of this award is to encourage parents, caregivers and very young children to interact together with exceptional picture books. Each year, children ages 0-5 are encouraged to vote for one of five nominated titles.

Stop by the children’s department at the Milford Public Library

and place your vote for your favorite Firefly nominee for 2024. The five chosen books are on display and based on the total number of votes, a Firefly Award winner will be announced on Aug. 5.

Spring Story Time Spring Story Time has begun. Story time is at 10:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. Wednesdays for ages 3-6. This year the themes are: Earth Day, Trains, Stinky, Smelly, Bugs and Teddy Bear Tea. Join Miss Felicia and Miss Maureen for great stories, fun crafts and yummy snacks each week. Call (574) 658-4312 to register today.

Empower Me To Be Clutter Free

The third and final program in the decluttering series is planned for 7 p.m. April 25 in the Milford

Public Library’s meeting room.

The topic of this program will be how to maintain order. There is a sign-up sheet at the adult circulation desk and registration begins April 15. Everyone has clutter. Come and listen to great ways of dealing with your clutter from Shannon Shepherd, the Purdue Extension Health and Human Sciences representative in Kosciusko County. This program is free and open to anyone who would like to attend.

LEGO Challenge

April LEGO Challenge is to build a bunny. Submit your photo of a LEGO bunny by 8 p.m. April 25 and you could win a new set of LEGO blocks. They have some neat prizes to choose from, so enter your creation today.

Around The Lakes

Before the family reunion you get two phone calls from different family members who are fighting. Both explain why they are right, why the other family member is a terrible person and that you need to be on “their side.” You need wisdom. You receive a new job offer which will pay more and is more appealing but requires moving to another state. You need wisdom.

Your child wants to play two sports, band, karate, scouts and battle-bots. Wisdom? We need more wisdom than we have.

The good news is God promises to give wisdom to those who humbly come to him and ask for wisdom in faith and repentance. My hope is for us to learn to consistently ask God for wisdom. In what relationship or situation do you need wisdom today?

James 1:5 says, If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. What an amazing promise! ‘Lacking’ means to be ‘wanting, needing, destitute.’ You have to confess you are ‘lacking’ the wisdom in yourself for the situations you face. It’s healthy to admit we need a wisdom higher than our own.

A great prayer is, “Lord, I don’t know what to do, give me

wisdom!” God gives wisdom in generous amounts without reproach. God doesn’t say, “I can’t believe you are so needy,” or “you have no one to blame but yourself for the mess you are in.” God doesn’t frown at you and give you a tiny bit of wisdom. Instead, God delights to be generous, gracious and rescuing. Ask with confidence.

James 1:5 says, If any of you lacks wisdom, The promise of wisdom is for those who have placed their trust in Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of their sin. God’s promise to give wisdom applies to the man or woman who have pledged their lives to live for him. The first step of being a wise person is

to get honest with God, to ask forgiveness, and receive his love and grace.

God promises his wisdom, not the world’s wisdom. James 3:17 says, But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. God’s wisdom is never about us being proven right, defeating someone, getting our way, or maneuvering a situation to our personal advantage. God’s wisdom serves God’s purposes not our own. God’s wisdom is also the best possible good for you. God’s wisdom has pure motives, not selfish ones. God’s wisdom is loving, peaceable, full of mercy. God’s wisdom is unwavering and without hypocrisy means his wisdom is sincere, true, without a hidden agenda, and steadfast.

No one “wins” a family fight. Ask for God’s wisdom which is gentle, peaceable and full of good fruit. Ask God for his wisdom which is reasonable and unwavering in regard to your job choices. Ask God for wisdom in setting limits for your kids.

By so doing you will begin to teach your child wisdom at an early age. In what situation or relationship will you ask God for wisdom today?

Prayer: Lord, grant me your wisdom, the wisdom which is pure, full of mercy, sincere, true and unwavering.

p.m. Wednesday, April 27, in the church’s gym.

On the menu this month is breakfast for dinner, which includes breakfast casseroles, fruit, muffins and donuts. The event is free and all of Milford’s community is invited.

Attending a community dinner is a great opportunity to enjoy a homemade meal and good conversation with your neighbors and community members. The dinner is free to enjoy.

ARCI REINHARD has started a new business from her Mil ford home. A. DAVID Candle Co. was named to honor her brother, who died at age 18. Reinhard said she hand pours wax can dles in a variety of sizes using soy, coconut and apricot. She said she also sells scent dif fusers that can be used in cars or other places that could use a fresh scent. If you’d like more information about her products, you can contact Reinhard at (574) 221-1850 or by email at 5boysandme@gmail.com. You can also search for “A. DAVID Candle Co.” on Facebook to learn more about the business. —o—

TICKETS ARE still available for the Middle School Prom which will be held from 7-9 p.m. Saturday, April 28, at the Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N. Long Drive. Tickets are $10 at the door. This event is not affiliated with Wawasee Middle School. For more information call (574) 457-3440.

THE SONS of the American Legion, North Webster, is hosting a rib cook-off from 4:30-7:30 p.m. (or until sold out) Saturday, April 27. It is open to the public. The meal includes a baked potato and coleslaw. The cost is $26.50 for a full slab or $15.50 for half a slab. —o—

THE SYRACUSE Chamber of Commerce and Pathways: Wawasee Area Career and Technical Education Cooperative will host a 2024 Job fair for all juniors and seniors interested in job opportunities in the community. It will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday, April 22, in the Wawasee High School gymnasium.

Area businesses are encouraged to participate. For more information call Betsy Spiegel, (574) 457-3147, ext. 2209 or bspiegel@wawasee. k12.in.us.

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THE NEXT North Webster Lake Association meeting is at 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 14, at the North Webster Community Center. Monthly board meetings are on the second Tuesday of the month. Visit lakewebster.net for more information.

To attend any of these meetings via Zoom, a request for a Zoom invitation/link must be sent by email to websterlakeassociation@gmail.com. —o—

CHAUTAUQUA-WAWASEE has issued a last call for artists for its annual fine arts festival. There are only six spots left which will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 25. Interested artists should contact Debbie at debbie@chqw.org for more information. —o—

HARVEST COFFEE in Milford is looking for sponsors for their youth summer book clubs. They have planned for three age groups with 6-8 students per group. The cost of the books is $220 and the cost for T-shirts the kids receive upon completion is $360.

“T-shirts are new this year,” said Karena Wilkinson. “We’d like to give each child a shirt after finishing the book club for the summer. If you or your business is interested in being a partial or full sponsor, please reach out at (574) 658-3066, or stop by Harvest Coffee, 207 N. Higbee St., Milford.” —o—

SOME QUESTIONS have been circulating on social media about what is happening with the north water tower in Syracuse.

As part of preventative maintenance the tower is receiving a fresh coat of paint. This involves sandblasting the tower prior to the new paint going on. So for the next few weeks scenes like this will be common as a tent is raised and lowered to help control the spray and debris. As a side note the south tower

sign has been out for a few months. It was a serious issue with the wiring and the transformers that were very old and no good. Thanks to Art Johnson, Kenny Johnson, Jim Kennedy and Sherman Bowers for fixing it and turning it back on!

“The upper Legion emblem and the lower light that says ‘For God and Country’ has not been lit for over 15 years. They are now shining bright! Please be aware that the sign will be on from dusk till dawn, not just during open hours. —o—

IT WAS mentioned in last week’s column that the Milford Street Department was flushing hydrants in town last Wednesday and Thursday. Here’s the photographic proof of it, showing Tad Freed and Angela Heltzel opening the floodgates on a hydrant on North Main Street on Thursday, which happened to also be the rainiest day of the week. —o—

NEW HOPE Pet Rescue is looking for fosters. Two are needed immediately. One to take in a pregnant momma cat due to give birth very soon and a momma cat with little ones that need some socialization. The rescue supplies everything during the fostering and once the kittens get a little bigger they will join the adult cats at the rescue. If you’re interested, fill out the fostering application available on New Hope’s web site, nhprindiana.org. —o—

“WE ARE really looking forward to this weekend. On Saturday morning, at the (North Webster) community center, they are having a huge garage sale.” said Nancy Gray, director of Senior Primelife Enrichment Center.” The senior center will also be open, and we will be offering some great deals. Our tables in the hallway will be loaded with bargains, and our room will be spread out with lots of tables full of new items. We will have a huge book sale, plus a lot of unique and unusual items. The sale starts at 8 a.m. and goes

Milford First Brethren Church, 110 W. Catherine St., will be hosting its monthly community dinner 5-6:30

FIREFLY AWARD Shown are this year’s nominees for the Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award. Come in and read them and vote for your favorite book. Ages 0-5 years old are eligible to vote. Photo provided by the Milford Public Library.

SPRING STORY TIME Miss Felicia reads about the color green on April 10. Call (574) 658-4312 to register your children for story time. Photo provided by the Milford Public Library