The Mail-Journal - November 8, 2023

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Covering Milford, Syracuse & North Webster, Indiana

Exchange Student Adjusting To Life

Wednesday, November 8, 2023

One Nation Under God

Page 7 themail-journal.com

Commissioners award bid for justice building renovations

BLOWN AWAY — Weston Frey skillfully wields a backpack blower while clearing leaves from a property in Syracuse. Falling leaves are a sure sign that winter is just around the corner. Photo by Keith Knepp.

By DAVID SLONE Times-Union

Cates, Rep. Snow named 2023 Republican Man and Woman of the Year Kimberly Cates and District 22 State Rep. Craig Snow were announced as the 2023 Republican Man and Woman of the Year at the Kosciusko County Republican Hall of Fame dinner, Thursday, Nov. 2. The event was held at The Owl’s Nest.

Mike Ragan, county chairman, gave the introductions of the Man and Woman of the Year.

Regarding Cates, Ragan stated she is a great citizen and has been involved in Kosciusko County for many years. “She has served our community for several years and has done a wonderful job,” said Ragan. “She’s been a great friend to most of you, if not all. She is currently serving on the Kosciusko County Council.”

Cates’s only comment was “There’s so many women who deserve this more than I, and I”m very appreciative and thank you.”

His introduction of Snow was brief. Ragan only noting Snow has served Kosciusko County and Warsaw in many, many ways.

Snow stated “I really haven’t done a whole lot yet. I’m still

working on it. It has been a joy and honor to represent you all. … nice having friends — Rep. (David) Abbot and Sen. (Ryan) Mishler along side me to get stuff done.

It’s not always easy. It’s been an enjoyable learning process …”

Keynote speaker 3rd District Congressman Jim Banks and 2nd District Congressman Rudy Yakym could not be present for the evening, but spoke via Zoom from Washington D.C. Yakym remarked newly elected Speaker of the House Mike Johnson was a rock solid conservative, a Christian and “one of the most solidly fundamental conservative Christians in maybe a 100 years.”

He stated last week the house passed a pro Israel resolution supporting Israel. “What Hamas has done on Oct 7 amounts to the worst atrocities against the Jewish nation we have seen since the Holocaust. The world has watched in horror and what they’ve done to Jews in the nation of Israel. The United States unequivocally stands with them. ... . Iran has done very well under

the Joe Biden administration,” stated Yakym.

Having his staff do some research, Yakym stated the very first year Biden was president, Iran’s GDP went up by 50%.

“That’s because we allowed them to go around our oil embargo, our oil sanctions … Iran is taking that money and using it on terrorism on Israel. The nation of Israel absolutely has the right to defend themselves. I support them … whatever action they deem necessary to assure this never happens again.”

Yakym touched on the anti-semitism occurring on college campuses. “Liberal college campuses have allowed anti-semitism to creep across the entirety of this nation and it has to stop. .. We are working on legislation to call that out and condemn it.”

He also noted the House will have passed between 80-85% of the appropriation bills needed to fund government. With that, he introduced Banks.

Banks stated he was sorry they Continued on page 2

REPUBLICAN MAN AND WOMAN OF THE YEAR — State Rep. Craig Snow, left, and Kimberly Cates were named the 2023 Man and Woman of the Year by the Kosciusko County Republican Party Thursday, Nov. 2. Photo by Deb Patterson

Area Plan Commission approves final plat for South Shore Green

By LAUREN ZEUGNER Staff Writer In a brief meeting, the Kosciusko County Area Plan Commission approved a final plat of South Shore Green in Syracuse.

The approval was made during the commission’s regular meeting Wednesday afternoon, Nov. 1.

Local attorney Steve Snyder, representing the South Shore Green Home Owners Association, explained the petition is to

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split one lot into two. The lots will be under the same restrictions as the rest of South Shore Green.

The commission agreed to continue the case of Eric and Cara Erlewein to its Dec. 6 meeting. The couple are petitioning to rezone 20.33 acres from an agricultural district to an agricultural II district. The property is located in Turkey Creek Township Snyder, who represented the couple, explained the surveyor

Inside

By DEB PATTERSON Editor-In-Chief

was unable to create a legal description in time for the meeting.

Also continued to Dec. 6 was a petition by Ron Baumgartner to rezone 7.16 acres from a commercial district to an industrial II district. The property is located in downtown Milford in Van Buren Township. The case was continued due to Baumgartner attending to a family matter.

The commission heard from a local attorney representing Continued on page 2

Veterans Day Events Listed See Page 8 See Public Notices On Page 11

The lowest bidder was awarded the Justice Building renovations project Monday, Nov. 6, by the Kosciusko County Commissioners, and the annual bids for materials were opened for the Highway Department.

At the Oct. 24 commissioner meeting, the bids for the renovation work were opened.

“We’re here today for a recommendation from our architect that we would award (the project) to Schenkel Construction,” said County Commissioner Cary Groninger.

Along with the base bid amount, he said there is also an alternative for window treatment allowance and an allowance for furniture moving. The total of those three items is $1,684,200.

“There would still be some contingencies there for construction and design that were not included in that base bid amount, just because we’re not sure we’re going to need those at this point,” Groninger said before making a motion to approve the contract with Schenkel Construction.

“That was the low bid.”

Commissioner Bob Conley seconded the motion and it passed 3-0.

The renovations include wallpapering, carpeting, painting in the building. The county has obligated up to $2.4 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds for the improvements to the building.

The other bid for the renovations was from R Yoder Construction at $1.83 million.

Kosciusko County attorney Ed Ormsby and Highway Department Superintendent Steve Moriarty opened all the annual bids for highway department materials for 2024. Ormsby opened the sealed bids, which were due by 9:15 a.m. Monday, and Moriarty read one item in each of the bid packets. The bids ranged from limestone to fuel and more.

Moriarty asked for permission to take the numerous bids under advisement and then accept the bids into the 2024 annual bids at the commissioners’ next meeting, which is scheduled for 9 a.m. Nov. 21. The commissioners approved taking the bids under advisement.

Moriarty also requested permission to apply for a grant and for a signature on a financial commitment letter for the grant.

“What this is for, this is HSIP (Highway Safety Improvement Program) money. It’s through the state of Indiana, it’s a federal grant. It’s regulated by the state.

And this is asking for money for paint striping,” he explained.

The grant application will be asking for $560,000 for the actual Continued on page 2

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www.the-papers.com — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wednesday, November 8, 2023

KEDCO Meeting brings ideas for South Shore Village project

By LAUREN ZEUGNER Staff Writer A meeting hosted by Kosciusko Economic Development Corp.

Tuesday, Oct. 31, brought a developer of South Shore Village together with representatives from the Syracuse Town Council, County Council and County Redevelopment Commission.

Jeff Dyson, one of the owners of the South Shore Village property, participated in the meeting by phone. The idea he and his partners have is to develop the property for living, working and playing.

In a phone interview with The Mail-Journal, Dyson said the project, which proposes to have 140 single family homes, a 140 unit multi family complex as well as shops and recreational areas, is trying to overcome a number of obstacles, namely bringing water to the property.

The discussion focused mainly on if it was possible for Syracuse to provide water.

Dyson explained while the property has several wells on it, there are issues when it comes to commercial and residential use.

“Commercial is very strict. Your costs go up exponentially if you

don’t have city water out there,” he explained.

The proposed project is estimated to provide between $75 -$100 million in economic development for the area. “Everyone we’ve spoken to has said this is a project that is needed,” Dyson said. If successful, it could also be a model for other rural communities around the country.

As for a timeline for completion, Dyson said the project will

take years to fully develop. “It is a community effort, “ he said. “We have and are open to speaking to anyone who can help the project along.” He noted Syracuse is now seen as the place to be because things are happening. “Our motivation is and has been that we want to do something positive for the community and for future generations,” he said.

Terry Sweeney, project director for KEDCO, served as modera-

tor for the meeting. He said he thought the information that was shared was positive. Several action steps were discussed, but not acted on as the meeting was not a public meeting.

Sweeney explained some of those action items include looking at the feasibility of running utilities to the site, the economic impact the project will have on the area and its return on investment.

PARTNERS — Members of the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory’s B-shift officially welcomed Lucas Niespodziany to the team on Tuesday evening. Niespodziany has been in probationary status for the past year but now has earned his firefighter/EMT certification and has joined the territory as a full-time member. Pictured from left are Kenny Gunkel, Adam Doyle, Niespodziany and Trent Nabinger. Photo by Keith Knepp.

Salvatori’s gets OK from local board on liquor sales

By DAVID SLONE Times-Union Salvatori’s Italian Eatery in Warsaw will be able to soon serve more alcoholic drinks than just beer and wine.

The Alcohol and Tobacco Commission of Kosciusko County on Thursday, Nov. 2, gave its approval on Salvatori’s new application for a beer, wine and liquor 210 supplemental license.

The full-service restaurant at 3605 Commerce Drive, Warsaw, already had a beer and wine license, which they had to give back to the state in order to receive the beer, wine and liquor license. The state commission will still need to give its approval on the 210 supplemental license as the county commission is only a recommending body.

“It’s been a long time coming,” Jeremy McClain, one of the owners of the restaurant, told the commission. “We currently have a beer and wine permit, which allows us to retail beer and wine, obviously, so we strongly feel that the addition of the three-way liquor permit will just expand our current offerings and allow us to serve more guests and provide a better overall dining experience.”

He said they feel the new threeway license will not only enhance their standing not only with their guests but also in the community “as we position ourselves for longterm success here in Warsaw.”

Commission member Dan Woods asked, since Salvatori’s is applying for one of the new permits that only a few cities qualified for, if they ever sold their business would they have to give the license back to the state or could they sell it.

Excise Officer April Tackett said this license was not saleable.

McClain said as a condition of getting the new three-way license without carry-out, they had to surrender the two-way license back to the state and the new three-way license could not be sold or transferred.

There were no remonstrators to the application and the commission approved it 3-0, with commission member Alan Alderfer absent.

Another new application before the alcohol commission on Thursday was for Dolgencorp LLC, doing business as Dollar General Store No. 24108, 106 W. Dixie Drive, Silver Lake. They applied for a beer and wine dealer grocery store permit.

Lisa McKinney, attorney with Bose, McKinney & Evans, representing Dollar General, and Harmony Fetters, district manager for Dollar General in Silver Lake, appeared before the commission.

McKinney said the Dollar General was a new location that opened in August.

“Have heard nothing but happiness from customers that, one, they exist, as there really isn’t any outlet for fresh food and … a lot of grocery items are in this store,” McKinney said. “They would like to be able to carry beer

and wine.”

Dollar Generals all have four feet of beer and four feet of wine for the convenience of the customers, she said. All employees go through computer-based learning so they have to pass that 100% before they go out on registers. The registers are prompted whenever a sale for alcohol comes through.

Fetters said the cashier has to verify the person standing in front of them is the person on the ID and that’s done for all customers, not just anyone who looks under the age of 40.

McKinney said there’s also cameras throughout the store, and the alcohol is located within eyesight of the cash registers.

If an employee sells alcohol to someone underage, they are immediately terminated and can never be rehired by Dollar General again.

The commission approved the new license 3-0.

Warsaw Wings LLC, dba Buffalo Wild Wings, 376 Enterprise Drive, Warsaw, had its beer, wine and liquor restaurant permit up for renewal, but had a violation.

In explaining their violation, Jesse Chase, new director of operations for Buffalo Wild Wings, told the commission that they did serve a minor and allowed the minor to loiter in the bar. He said it was an excise officer with an underage individual.

The violation took place on April 25 and they paid a fine of $1,000. The employee who committed the violation is no longer with the company.

The commission approved the renewal 3-0.

License renewals without any violations approved by the ATC included: • Keg Corporation, dba The Keg, 111 W. Van Buren St., Leesburg, beer, wine and liquor restaurant permit.

• Lagos Steakhouse LLC, dba Jimmy’s Restaurant, 104 W. Himes St., North Webster, beer, wine and liquor restaurant permit.

• Lassus Bros. Oil Inc., dba Lassus Handy Dandy No. 40, 4987 N. Ind. 13, Leesburg, beer and wine dealer grocery store permit.

• Mac’s Convenience Stores LLC, dba Circle K No. 4702372, 606 N. Main St., North Webster, beer and wine dealer grocery store permit. Tackett said Circle K had a violation but she couldn’t remember if it was for alcohol or tobacco so there was a chance that if the violation was for alcohol that the commission may see the permit again next month.

• Lassus Bros. Oil Inc., dba Lassus Handy Dandy No. 45, 1900 Plaza Drive, Warsaw, beer and wine dealer grocery store permit.

• Lassus Bros. Oil Inc., dba Lassus Handy Dandy No. 36, 777 Parker St., Warsaw, beer and wine dealer grocery store permit.

• Rozella Ford LLC, dba Rozella Ford Golf Club & Lounge, 1700 Rozella Road, Warsaw, beer, wine and liquor restaurant permit.

Once a decision to do a feasibility study is done, Sweeney said he thought it would take between 30-60 days for it to be completed.

Sweeney noted if the project moves forward it will take years to complete. “Housing is a need across the country,” he said.

“From that perspective it means a lot.”

He explained the project has to be good for both local government and the community. Determining

the next steps could take about 3 months. Sweeney said he hoped to get the go-ahead for the feasibility study before the end of the year.

“I think it was a good discussion and everybody had a good idea of what needed to be addressed before moving forward,” he said.

Syracuse Town Councilman Bill Musser said the discussion Continued on page 3

IN DISCUSSION — North Webster Town Attorney Jack Birch, left, confers with Clerk-Treasurer Leigh Anne Jessop prior to Tuesday evening’s meeting of the North Webster Town Council. Photo by Keith Knepp.

North Webster receives $294,000 grant

By KEITH KNEPP Staff Writer

OFFICIALLY WELCOMED — Lucas Niespodziany, left, is presented with a new North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory helmet by Fire Chief Jeremy Likens. He was sworn in Tuesday, Nov. 7, during the fire territory’s regular monthly meeting. Niespodziany has been with the department on probationary status for the past year. He is now certified as a firefighter/EMT. Photo by Keith Knepp.

Cates, Rep. Snow Continued from page 1 could not be with the group in person and would rather be there than “stuck here in the swap. But this week we’re doing what you all pay us to do, to come to Washington, what you elect us to do, and represent you and fight for our conservative Hoosier values here on Capital Hill.

He said he and Yakym were doing “everything we can to cut wasteful spending, secure our border and to hold Joe Biden and the most corrupt administration in American history accountable for what they are doing to our country. That’s saying a lot after the Clintons served in the White House.”

He called Biden the most corrupt president ever to sleep in the White House and that it was his goal and hope “that we impeach Joe Biden before the end of this Congress to make sure no other president in the future of this great country ever thinks they can get away with what this president and his family have done to sell out our country in such a big way.”

Serving his fourth and final term in the House, Banks, who is

running for U.S. Senator, said Indiana is a conservative state and Indiana deserves a conservative fighter. “I’m so tired of go-along to get-along Republicans who go along with the Democrats, vote for more spending, vote to sell this country out …”

Banks stated that would not happen on his watch. “I promise you that when you make me your next state senator, I’m going to fight for this country in a big way to move us forward, to get our country back on track, to put America first in a way you deserve your United States senator to fight for each and every day.”

He concluded his keynote address by stating his full support for Donald Trump to return to the presidency. He called Trump, who endorsed Banks for the U.S Senate, “the best president of my lifetime.

The group of Republicans also heard from Indiana Secretary o State Diego Morales and Indiana Treasurer Daniel Elliott along with 3rd District U.S. House candidates Grant Bucher, Jon Kenworthy, Tim Smith and Mike Felker.

The regular meeting of the North Webster Town Council was held Tuesday evening, Nov. 7, a week earlier than is the usual second week of the month.

During the meeting, Clerk-Treasurer Leigh Anne Jessop announced the town was awarded $294,000 as its share of the Indiana Department of Transportation’s 20232 Community Crossings Matching Grant. North Webster was one of 188 Indiana cities, towns and counties that received part of the $91.5 million in state matching funds for local road projects through Community Crossings, a component of Governor Eric J. Holcomb’s Next Level Roads program.

Also during the meeting, Board President Dan Thystrup informed the council Michiana Area Council of Governments, better known as MACOG, advised the town to split the funding requests to construct the proposed North Webster Trail into two components: the in-town portion and the portion that would connect North Webster with Wawasee Middle School.

In doing so, it would reduce the town’s necessary seed money to begin the project from 20% of the total cost to 10%. The total cost of the project is $2,082,000, which

means the town only needs to provide $208,200 rather than 416,400. Both amounts were covered by promise grants from the K21 Foundation, but with the reduced outlay, the additional grant money can be used in other aspects of the trail’s construction.

In other business: Town Marshal Greg Church informed the council he was not yet prepared to present a quote for a new patrol unit but he should be ready by the December meeting. In October, the police department utilized 725.25 officer hours, drove 4,645 miles and used 369.67 gallons of fuel. In the utilities report, Mike Noe requested permission to spend up to $20,000 for necessary repairs on the lift station at the wastewater treatment plant. The request was unanimously approved by the council.

S u e Ward, representing the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce, requested permission for the chamber to decorate the town’s lamp posts for the holiday season. The decorations would tap in to the posts electrical outlets. The request was unanimously approved.

The next meeting of the North Webster Town Council will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 19, inside the North Webster Community Center. The public is invited to attend.

Area Plan Continued from page 1 Alex Valentine, who owns property in the unincorporated town of Wooster. Valentine would like the north side of an alleyway vacated. His attorney explained after purchasing two lots, Valentine determined a barn currently lays in the right of way.

The commission approved

the request be forwarded to the county commissioners with the recommendation the area planning office contact the property owners on the south side of the alley.

The matter will be brought before the county commissioners during their Nov. 21 meeting.

ment for the youth.

• Approved a request from Bob Momeyer, systems administration, to renew the county’s contract with Zayo, which is one of the county’s internet providers.

He said the county’s previous provider, Indiana Fiber Network, was purchased by Zayo during this past renewal period.

“Consequently, our contract time expired and we didn’t know about it, but they never let us know, so we’re kind of reacting to that situation,” Momeyer said.

“We’ve been able to negotiate a lower rate for the next three years and a higher bandwidth, so I believe that is a very acceptable situation.”

Ormsby said on the contract the legal terms are acceptable with the addition of the county’s standard terms of the add-to contract language. He suggested the commissioners approve the contract with the addition of the county’s standards, which the commissioners did.

• Approved a letter of support to the Indiana Department of Mental Health and Addictions in support of designating the Bowen Center as a certified commu-

nity behavioral health clinic, as presented by County Administrator Marsha McSherry.

• Approved the commissioner meeting dates for 2024, as presented by County Auditor Rhonda Helser.

• Approved the 2024 interlocal agreement between the county and the Kosciusko County Convention and Recreation Visitors Commission for the county auditor to serve as the secretary and controller for the KCCRVC. The agreement is for $500 per year to cover the materials the county uses for their meetings.

• Approved the 2024 interlocal agreement between the county and the Kosciusko County Solid Waste Management District.

The auditor has served the district since 2000 by processing the district’s payroll, claims and budget at a cost of $6,000 per year.

• Approved the 2024 nonprofit agreements that were approved during the budgeting process.

Those agreements are with Beaman Home, Cardinal Services, Kosciusko County 4-H Council, Kosciusko County Historical Society and St. Joe River Basin.

Commissioners award Continued from page 1 product and $45,000 for construction inspection and installing for a grand total of $661,000. The highway department’s financial portion will be $66,100.

The commissioners unanimously approved the grant application and the financial commitment letter.

In other business, the commissioners: • Heard from Veteran Service Officer Darryl McDowell about Saturday being Veterans Day and the history of the day recognized in the United States and in Europe.

On another note, he said Operation Green Light began Monday, Nov. 6.

“You may have heard me talk about this last year. It’s in honor of Veterans Day. The National and Indiana Association of Counties, along with the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers, invite communities to light up their businesses or their homes between the 6th and the 12th of this month in recognition to let veterans know that they are not forgotten and that we as a nation will ensure that

they have access to the resources that they need.”

• Approved for the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office to enter into an inter-agency agreement with the Indiana Department of Transportation, as presented by KCSO Chief Deputy Chris McKeand. He said the agreement has to do with the KCSO using law enforcement equipment on rights-of-way. The county has previously entered into the agreement, but now INDOT wants the agreement to be directly with the sheriff’s department.

• Approved KCSO Lt. Mike Mulligan’s request to apply for an Indiana Department of Natural Resources 2024 grant for $15,000, of which $12,500 will go toward enforcement and $2,500 will go toward fuel and dock fees.

The sheriff’s department has applied for the grant in years past.

• Approved Kosciusko County Probation Department Juvenile Probation Officer Dana Bailey’s request to apply for the 2024-25 Juvenile Detention Alternative Initiative grant for the seventh year. It is a $70,000 advance state grant, with the funds to be used for supplies, services and equip-

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Wednesday, November 8, 2023 — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — www.the-papers.com

Obituaries Danny Conkling

Galen J. Baumgartner

Volunteer Firefighter

Small Business Owner

Galen J. Baumgartner, 87, Bluffton, passed away Thursday morning, Nov. 2, 2023, at his residence.

Gale was born in Adams County on Jan. 17, 1936, to John H. and Mary E. (Gehring) Baumgartner. He married Joyce Isch in Bluffton on Dec. 25, 1958; she survives.

GALEN J. Gale graduated from Berne French BAUMGARTNER High School in 1954 and served in the United States Army from 1959 until 1960. He was a member of the Apostolic Christian Church. Gale was a small business owner who enjoyed the outdoors and spending time at the lake with family and friends.

In addition to his wife, Gale is survived by three sons, Brad (Michelle) Baumgartner, Kirk (Laurie) Baumgartner and Tad (Stephanie) Baumgartner, all of Bluffton; two daughters, Gayla (Steve) Gerber of Bluffton and Lesley (John) Kintz of Decatur; three sisters, Helen Woodward of Bluffton, Anna Rose Lloyd of Clarksville, Ga., and Lois (Lloyd) Tackwell of Fort Wayne; one brother, Gene (Elaine) Baumgartner of Syracuse; one sister-inlaw, Marjorie Baumgartner of Bluffton; 14 grandchildren, Blane (Amber) Baumgartner, Brendan Baumgartner, Carly (Logan) Tino, Landon (Brittany) Gerber, Lucas (Andrea) Gerber, Levi (Olimpia) Gerber, Kylie (Ryan) Tomlin, Jonah (Victoria) Baumgartner, Evan Baumgartner, Lily (Aaron) Sandoval, Ava Kintz and Samuel, Jude and Andy Gale Baumgartner; along with nine great-grandchildren.

Aside from his parents, Gale was preceded in death by two brothers, Truman and Howard Baumgartner; and five sisters, Carolyn Yergler, Delores Shady, Lillian Sprunger, Jo Ann Harter and infant Mary Ann Baumgartner.

Visitation was from noon until 7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 5, at Goodwin-Cale & Harnish Memorial Chapel in Bluffton. Services were held at 10 a.m. Monday, Nov. 6, at the Bluffton North Apostolic Christian Church, with visitation from 9-9:45 a.m. prior to the service. John Baumgartner and Dan Pfister officiated. Burial followed at the Apostolic Christian Cemetery in Adams County, with military rites conducted by the American Legion Post 111 of Bluffton in conjunction with the United States Army Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions may be made to Christian Care Retirement Community or Midwest Food Bank.

Online condolences may be made at goodwincaleharnish.com.

Norma J. Hassel Lifelong Area Resident

RENTOWN COUNTRY STORES

Continued from page 2 turned to whether the town could annex the property into town, and if it couldn’t would it be willing to run water to it. The property is roughly 2 miles south of the town’s southern border.

Musser said if water is run to the property, installation costs would be paid for by the developer.

He noted the project will bring much needed housing and boost the economic development of the area.

School officials are in favor of it as the development will bring more students and more funding to the school corporation.

Cindy Kaiser, president of the Syracuse Town Council, said, “It was a good learning meeting for me.

I was a town resident when they did Kern’s Crossing and the tech park.”

She asked David Wilkinson, town manager, to put KEDCO on the agenda for the November meeting, which will be 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 21, in the council chambers in Town Hall.

“Nathan Scherer and Jeff Dyson both proposing 120 acres of development ... I think it’s really an opportunity for the community,” said State Rep. David Abbott. Noting employees need housing, “I think we need to seize on that opportunity,” he said.

He also stressed the need for ser-

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vices, primarily water and sewer as the property already has road cuts.

He has been tasked with looking into some legislative issues involving tax increment finance districts and working with the Indiana Utility Regulator Commission.

He said he thought the meeting was positive. “I like meetings where not everyone agrees, but agree to discuss it,” he said. “I thought it was a productive meeting.”

Abbot said he has spoken to a number of CEOs in the area and the biggest problem they have is they can’t find a work force primarily due to a lack of housing. “People want to come to the area and either they can’t find housing or its too far out of their price range,” he said. “This is a nobrainer. We need to make it happen.”

Joni Truex, who is a member of both the Kosciusko County Council and County Redevelopment Commission, said the meeting was a time to bring everyone together to discuss options. She noted discussion centered on a water and sewer study and an economic development study.

“No one there had the authority to speak for their group. Nothing has been set,” she said.

She said looking at the potential for the project, she’s excited about the economic development and increased housing. “When you have those two

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By DAVID SLONE Times-Union All the firms that submitted bid proposals to the Kosciusko County Parks and Recreation Board for the blueways and greenways master plan and/or the Chinworth trail extension study and design will be interviewed as finalists, except one.

The determination was made at a special board meeting Thursday morning, Nov. 2. The interviews will take place Nov. 9 in the video conference room of the Justice Building, beginning with an executive session at 8 a.m. The interviews will be at 9, 10 and 11 a.m. and 1 and 2 p.m. Each interview session will be scheduled for an hour, but likely only last 30-45 minutes. Another executive session may follow the last interview.

Thursday’s discussion on determining the finalists to be interviewed for the two projects began with the board discussing the costs presented with the proposals to make sure all board members agreed to what those costs were.

The bid proposals were opened at the board’s Oct. 19 meeting.

Board President Rob Bishop listed what he found the costs to be in the proposals. On the master plan, those were a range of $16,000-$120,000 from TSW (Taylor Siefker Williams Design Group); $89,000 from The Troyer Group; $93,500 from McKenna; and $80,000 from Triad Associates Inc. For the trail extension, the bid proposals were $252,340 from Jones Petrie & Rafiniski (JPR); $165,862 from The Troyer Group; $300,000 from RQAW; and $60,000 from Triad.

Initially, there was some confusion as to if the $80,000 cost estimate from Triad was just for the master plan or for both the master plan and the trail extension. Stu Savka, with Triad, explained to the board that the $80,000 was for the master plan and $60,000 was for the trail extension.

The board briefly discussed if their request for proposals was clear enough as to what they

wanted in the bids. Bishop said the board could decide that if their RFP wasn’t adequate and they didn’t get the response they wanted, they could rebid it.

The board’s interviews with the bidders will be closed to the public, but no decisions will be made.

Boards legally must vote on any decision in a public meeting because of the Open Door Law. Cusick made the suggestion RQAW not be included in the interviews due to the high cost of their bid proposal and it being outside of their scope of the project budget.

While no formal vote was taken on not including RQAW, no one spoke up to disagree with Cusick on his suggestion and they were not included in the interview slate.

Later in the meeting, Mike Reese, with The Troyer Group, asked if firms bidding on both projects could have longer interview sessions than the proposed 30-45 minutes. Bishop said the 45 minutes should be enough time.

In discussing the costs for the project, Groninger said while they wanted the trail extension to be nice, it didn’t have to be to the standards of the Indiana Department of Transportation. He said he wanted to make sure they could build the project and not just end up with design plans and no way to build the trail.

The county set aside $850,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds for the design and build of the greenway extension and almost $90,000 for the master plan.

The town of Winona Lake also has about $30,000 in grant funding it has offered to go toward the master plan.

The ARPA dollars have to be allocated by the end of 2024 and spent by the end of 2026.

Board member Aggie Sweeney indicated that Kosciusko County Highway Department Superintendent Steve Moriarty told her and Cusick that he was willing to help on the process. The board decided to ask him to attend the executive session at 8 a.m. Nov. 9, if he’s available, to talk about what questions they might want to ask the bidding firms.

its a winning combination,” she said.

During the meeting several questioned whether the Turkey Creek Sewer District could handle the increase to its capacity due to commercial and housing development South Shore Village is expected to bring.

Tim Woodward, superintendent of the Turkey Creek Sewer District,

said the district can handle the flow.

He noted the sewer district has already granted approval for 21 homes and an ice cream shop in South Shore Village to tap onto the system.

Woodward said what is needed, however, is a plan on how to get the sewage from the property to the treatment plant.

KEDCO Meeting

RENTOWN COUNTRY STORES

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SALE GOOD NOVEMBER 6-11, 2023

Danny Conkling, 72, North Webster, passed away unexpectedly at his residence Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023.

He was born May 30, 1951, in Muncie, to Gail and Lois (Garber) Conkling.

After graduating from Wawasee High School in 1969, he pursued his studies at Anderson ColDANNY lege, focusing on music. Through education, Danny CONKLING nurtured his love for music and developed skills that would resonate throughout his life.

Danny began his career working at Conkling Farms before eventually retiring from the Kosciusko County Highway Department in 2019. He served as a township board member for Tippecanoe Township for many years. Danny served his community by volunteering as a firefighter. In recognition of his unwavering service and devotion, he received a prestigious 50-year pin from the Indiana Volunteers Firefighter Association as a proud member of the North Webster Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory. Additionally, Danny was an active member of the North Webster EMS, dedicating his time and expertise to helping those in need.

Aside from his professional accomplishments, Danny enjoyed the open road on his motorcycles. Riding both Harleys and Honda motorcycles allowed him to experience freedom in its purest form and embrace the thrill of adventure.

An ardent fan of the Indiana University (IU) Hoosiers, he took immense pride in cheering for his favorite team. Among the sports legends who captured Danny’s heart was legendary basketball coach Bobby Knight.

Danny sought camaraderie and friendly competition at Gilliam Lanes, where he enjoyed bowling with friends and family. Danny was a talented musician who shared his passion for music with others.

He even had the privilege of playing his trumpet for Queen Elizabeth during one of his several trips to Europe.

He married his beloved wife, Rebecca Krause, on the iconic Dixie Boat in North Webster on June 12, 1993. Their union was a testament to their enduring love and provided cherished memories that would forever be treasured.

Danny also proudly served as a member and for several years as an officer of the Sons of the American Legion Post 253 in North Webster. He was also a charter member of the Post 253 Riders Motorcycle Club. His dedication to honoring and supporting veterans was unwavering, reflecting his deep respect and gratitude towards those who served their country.

Danny is survived by his sons, Chris (Alicia) Conkling of Anderson, Jamie (Beverly) Conkling of Decatur and Erik (Anna) Conkling of North Webster. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Christian, Gracie, Ari, Reagan, Hudson, Jensen, Megan, Alex and Nathan.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Rebecca, who passed in June of 2019, and his parents, Gail and Lois Conkling.

Family and friends may gather for visitation at Titus Funeral Home of North Webster, 8056 E. 500N, North Webster, from 3-5 and 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9. A life celebration will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 10, with visitation one hour prior in the funeral home.

Donations in honor of Danny can be made to the North Webster American Legion Post 253 or to the North Webster Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory.

To leave a condolence, please visit TitusFuneralHome.com.

RENTOWN COUNTRY STORES

RENTOWN COUNTRY STORES

Norma J. (Boyer) Hassel, 85, passed away Monday, Oct. 16, 2023, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne.

She was born in Warsaw on Feb. 27, 1938, to Donald Barnhart and Leatha (Valentine) Barnhart. Norma was married to Jay Boyer on June 30, 1957, until his sudden passing in SepNORMA J. tember of 1987. She later was blessed to marry HASSEL again on Jan. 6, 2000, to Dr. Charles E. Hassel of Bremen.

Norma had an extraordinary life filled with love, determination and selflessness. She was a graduate of North Webster High School and proudly remained a lifelong resident of the area. She was a very active and hardworking person who dedicated her time to various endeavors, which left indelible impacts on the lives of those around her.

Growing up on the farm as a hardworking young lady, she then worked for Kosciusko REMC for a brief time. After that, she remained a homemaker until she was widowed. She then worked for Dr. Richard Carman in Warsaw for 12 years.

Norma was most known for her immeasurable devotion to her family and friends. Her strength came from the Lord and her faith, which helped her throughout any trial or tribulation that came her way.

Always there to lend an ear or fix a dinner for fellowship around the dining room table, she was known by everyone for her amazing skills at preparing a wonderful home-cooked meal.

Norma is survived by her husband, Dr. Charles E. Hassel; her son, Troy (Sheila) Boyer of Broken Arrow, Okla.; her daughter, Michelle (Shelleigh) Boyer of Syracuse; three grandsons, Brooks Boyer of Broken Arrow, J. Braden Boyer of Fort Smith, Ark., and Braxton Studabaker of Milford; great-grandson, Ryker Boyer; and sister, Donna Leonhard, Fort Wayne. She is also survived by three stepchildren and their families, including four stepgrandchildren.

Norma was preceded in death by her husband, Jay D. Boyer; and parents, Donald and Leatha Barnhart.

Titus Funeral Home of North Webster is entrusted with the care of Norma. Visitation will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, with a celebration of life service starting at 2 p.m. at the North Webster Church of God. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the North Webster Church of God or the North Webster Community Center.

Written condolences may be left for the family at TitusFuneralHome.com. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Norma Jo Hassel, please visit our flower store.

In memory of Norma Jo Hassel, please consider making a donation to one of the following charities: North Webster Church of God or Senior Primelife Enrichment Center.

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www.the-papers.com — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Accidents/Incidents

William Harr arrested for stealing firearm

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 1:42 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4, North SR 13, east of CR 500N, North Webster. Drivers: Troy L. Scheurich, 59, East CR 200S, Avilla; and Jason E. Elliott, 48, North CR 375E, Warsaw. Scheurich said he wasn’t paying attention and ran a red light, causing a collision. Scheurich and a passenger in his vehicle complained of pain, but refused EMS. Elliott complained of head and neck pain and was taken to the hospital.

A passenger in Elliott’s vehicle complained of head pain and was taken to the hospital. Damage up to $100,000.

11:06 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 4, East CR 450N, west of North CR 475E, Warsaw. Driver: Christopher A. Martin, 48, East Shore Park Road, Leesburg. Martin swerved to miss a deer, hitting a tree and ending up in a field.

Damage up to $25,000.

8:08 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3, North SR 13, north of East CR 200N, Pierceton. Driver: Mark L. Battig, 44, EMS T2 Lane, North Webster.

Battig’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage up to $25,000.

8:57 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 2, North CR 300E and East CR 1100N, Syracuse. Driver: Sherry Clayton, 52, LaPoint Drive, Milford. Clayton’s vehicle left the roadway striking a mailbox and a guardrail. Damage up to $25,000.

North Webster Officers with the North Webster Police Department investigated the following accidents: Accidents 4:56 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 2, North Sullivan Road and East CR 450N, Leesburg. Drivers: Heidi Borkholder, 46, First Road, Bremen; and Ian Holloway, 24, CR 250S, Warsaw. Borkholder’s vehicle rear ended Holloway’s vehicle. Damage up to $10,000.

5:15 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1, East Washington Street and North SR 13, North Webster.

Driver: Kaden Cook, 21, West CR 575N, Etna Green. Cook’s vehicle struck an unoccupied parked vehicle while backing. Damage up to $5,000.

7:26 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31, North Syracuse-Webster Road and East CR 1100N, Syracuse.

Drivers: John Finkney, 37, Pioneer Way, North Webster; and Amy Lilly, 43, East CR 900N, Syracuse. Finkney lost control of his vehicle causing it to leave

the roadway, strike a utility pole and roll over. At some point Finkney’s vehicle’s engine block fell out in the roadway where Lilly’s vehicle ran over it. Damage up to $10,000.

11:47 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 28, North SR 13 and Executive Boulevard, Syracuse. Drivers: James Ashe, 39, Main Street, Milford; and Cory Wise, 48, Marion Street, Mishawaka. Ashe had his vehicle’s right turn signal on so Wise tried to pass Ashe’s vehicle, however, Ashe turned left instead, colliding with Wise’s vehicle.

Damage up to $5,000.

Syracuse Officers with the Syracuse Police Department investigated the following accidents and incident: Accidents 4:38 a.m. Monday, Nov. 6, East Pickwick Drive, west of North Kings Drive, Syracuse. Driver: David Grubb, 40, East Hunnicutt Drive, Syracuse. Grubb’s vehicle struck a dog. Damage up to $5,000.

2:44 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 5, West Railroad Avenue, north of South Syracuse-Webster Road, Syracuse. Drivers: Paul Slone, 55, Jay Street, Topeka; and Justin Arnold, 27, East CR 100S, Pierceton. While entering the intersection, Slone’s motorcycle struck Arnold’s vehicle.

Slone was transported to Lutheran Fort Wayne for injuries. Damage up to $5,000.

10:33 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31, East CR 1300N, east of North CR 300E, Syracuse. Driver: Randall E. Woodcock, 37, North Algonquin Drive, Syracuse. Woodcock’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage up to $25,000.

Incident 11:31 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1, 300 block of North Huntington Street, Syracuse. Melissa R. Yoder was the victim of fraud.

Milford Officers with the Milford Police Department investigated the following accident: Accident 7:19 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4, South Main Street, east of West Section Street, Milford. Drivers: Jerry Kammerer, 80, East Van Buren Street, Leesburg; and Kristen Tropf, 38, South Eight Street, Goshen. Kammerer’s vehicle struck Tropf’s vehicle while making a left turn. Damage up to $10,000.

Jail Bookings Kosciusko County The following people were booked in the Kosciusko County Jail:

Hochstetler injured in Elkhart County crash Lynn Hochstetler, 23, Syracuse, complained of neck pain following a two-vehicle crash at CR 38 and CR 35 in Elkhart County.

The crash occurred at 5:48 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 7.

Hochstetler was taken to Goshen Hospital.

Elkhart County Sheriff’s Office reports Christ Leupp, 56, LaGrange, was southbound on CR

35, north of CR 38, when his vehicle struck the back of the Hochstetler vehicle.

After impact, Leupp’s vehicle went into a corn field, back onto CR 38 and hit a tree. Hochstetler’s vehicle spun around and struck a utility pole.

Leupp was taken to Goshen Hospital for treatment for an unknown medical issue.

Kosciusko County Jail implements new jail mail policy With the implementation of the new IPAD system at the Kosciusko County Jail, new procedures will be put into place for the delivery of outside mail to inmates.

The new system will allow the Kosciusko County jail to go paperless and no longer receive mail from the United State Postal Service. The Kosciusko County Jail will not accept any mail from anyone to include Amazon or another other third party for an inmate as of Monday, Nov. 20. Any mail post marked Tuesday, Nov. 21 and after will be returned to the sender.

The iPADs have online books for sale as well as magazines and newspapers that families can provide the inmate with money to purchase access to these on the tablets.

To send mail to an inmate, families will need to start sending the mail to PO Box 25938 Tampa, FL 33622. A third-party company will scan any mail received; it will then be sent to the inmate’s tablet. All materials will be reviewed by the jail staff prior to it being forwarded to the inmate electronically.

For any questions or issues, call (574) 265-2226 for assistance.

Nov. 6 — Anita Kay Hogan, 58, 206 E. South St. No. B, North Webster, booked for driving while suspended with prior.

Bond: $450 cash.

Nov. 6 — Sharon Marie Jackson, 44, 14297 N. Bishop Road, Syracuse, booked for a probation violation — felony, possession of a hypodermic syringe or needle, false informing and possession of paraphernalia. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

Nov. 3 — Manuel Rudy Chavez Jr., 34, 12626 N. Conner Court Milford, booked for failure to appear. No bond.

Nov. 2 — Sherry L. Clayton, 52, 2939 E. LaPoint Drive, Milford, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Bond: $700 cash.

Nov. 2 — Brandon Jay Chilcutt, 34, 502 S. Manor Drive, Syracuse, booked for possession of meth, manufacturing/dealing meth, possession marijuana/ hash oil/hashish/salvia with prior, foreign warrant and trafficking with an inmate. Bond: $25,250 surety and cash.

Oct. 31 — Alan James Annis, 37, 413 S. Harkless Drive, No. 1, Syracuse, booked for failure to appear – felony. No bond.

Elkhart County The following person was booked in the Elkhart County Correctional Complex: Oct. 28 — Roy Lee Allen, 45, no address listed, North Webster, booked for resisting law enforcement, intimidation and a warrant arrest. No bond.

Noble County The following people were booked in the Noble County Jail: Nov. 1 — Scott Allen Baldwin, 41, 9893 E. King Arthur Trail, Cromwell, booked for possession of methamphetamine, possession of paraphernalia, interference with law enforcement and two counts of failure to appear. No bond.

Oct. 29 — Noah J. Calderon, 24, 8930 E. Crow Road, Syracuse, booked for disorderly conduct and possession of marijuana. No bond.

Oct. 29 — Camille D. Murillo, 22, 8930 E. Crow Road, Syracuse, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated with passengers less than 18 years of age. No bond.

Oct. 27 — Jeremy Ray Cole, 43, 10066 N. 400E, Syracuse, booked for a warrant arrest. No bond.

DAMAGED HARLEY — Shown is some of the damage to Paul A. Slone’s 1998 Harley Davidson. Slone, 55, Topeka, was transported to Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne, with head injuries.

FRONT END DAMAGE — The front of a 2007 Pontiac driven by Justin Arnold, 27, Pierceton, sustained damage in the collision.

One injured in motorcycle vs. vehicle crash Nov. 5 Text and Photos

By DEB PATTERSON Editor-In-Chief Paul A. Slone, 55, Jay Street, Topeka, was taken to Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne, following a motorcycle/vehicle accident Sunday, Nov. 5.

According to the Syracuse Police department, Slone suffered an incapacitating head injury.

The crash occurred at 2:44 p.m. at West Railroad Avenue and Syracuse-Webster Road, Syracuse.

Justin C. Arnold, 27, East CR 100S, Pierceton, was driving a 2007 Pontiac, eastbound and had stopped at the intersection of CR 1300N and Syracuse-Webster Road. After he entered his vehicle into the intersection to travel onto

Railroad Avenue, Slone’s Harley Davidson appeared in front of his vehicle. This caused Arnold’s vehicle to hit the motorcycle.

According to the police report Slone was traveling north on Syracuse-Webster Road, attempting to travel north over the railroad tracks onto North Main Street.

The intersection is a three-way stop, with southbound traffic on North Main Street having the right-of-way due to the railroad tracks.

Slone was thrown from his motorcycle and was reportedly not wearing a helmet.

Damage was estimated up to $5,000.

Turkey Creek Fire Territory and EMS, Syracuse Police and Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene.

William C. Harr IV, 52, 207 E. Huntington St., North Webster, was arrested for allegedly possessing a firearm reported stolen WILLIAM C. from Ohio HARR IV almost 10 years ago.

He is charged with theft, a level 5 felony; and possession of marijuana, a class B misdemeanor.

On Sept. 28, an Indiana State Police trooper noticed a vehicle exceeding the posted speed limit on Old Road 30. The trooper pulled the vehicle over and identified its driver as Harr.

According to court documents, while removing Harr and a passenger from the vehicle, the trooper noticed the smell of marijuana coming from Harr’s person.

A K9 unit at the scene alerted to illegal drugs in the vehicle.

Upon searching the vehicle, officers found a single-shot revolver reported stolen from Ohio in November 2014, a rifle, and 0.5 grams of marijuana.

The stolen firearm’s owner said a gun safe containing multiple firearms was stolen from him between Oct. 28, 2014, and Nov. 3, 2014.

Harr admitted to smoking marijuana the day before being pulled over and said he purchased the stolen firearm from a friend a couple years ago. He said the friend did not have a federal firearms license but did not want to tell law enforcement who he received the firearm from.

Harr has been arrested and released on bond. His initial hearing took place at 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3, in Kosciusko Superior Court Two.

Court News Superior Court III The following fines for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Speeding — Alesha R. Simmons, Syracuse, $164.50; Keven N. Rodriguez, North Webster, $164.50 No valid driver’s license — Zulma Rodriguez, Milford, $164.50 Failure to register — Diamond N. Holden, North Webster, $164.50 Distracted driving — Melanie N. Tolson, Milford, $164.50

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

Wirebaugh-Richardson Trystan Starr Wirebaugh, 35, North Webster, and Irene Marie Richardson, 38, North Webster Wilson-Sparks Brannon Lee Wilson, 43, Syracuse, and Vanessa M. Sparks, 37, Syracuse Gainey-Dove Alec Gainey, 22, North Webster, and Diamond Dove, 24, North Webster

[U.S.P.S 325-840] ISSN 2834-3999 Vol. 62, No. 39

Marriage Dissolutions The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in Kosciusko Superior Courts I and IV: Blotkamp — Tonya Blotkamp, Cromwell, and Matt Blotkamp, Cromwell. They were married Sept.

24, 2010, and separated Oct. 14, 2023. No minor children.

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Wednesday, November 8, 2023 — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — www.the-papers.com

COMMUNITY CROSSINGS — Governor Holcomb and the INDOT awarded $91.5 million through the Community Crossings matching grant program Friday, Nov. 3. The picture shows INDOT Commissioner Mike Smith, Kosciusko County Highway Superintendent Steve Morarty, County Commissioner President Brad Jackson, State Rep. David Abbot and Gov. Eric Holcomb. Photo provided by Brad Jackson.

UPDATING THE CROWD — Regg Beer, director of the Milford Food Bank, addresses the crowd at the third annual Gobble Up Hunger event held Saturday, Nov. 4. In the back is Bill Doege, director of operations for the food bank. Photo by Lauren Zeugner.

Third annual Gobble Up Hunger a success

ZEUGNER Gov. Holcomb, INDOT award Community ByStaffLAUREN Writer The third annual Gobble Up Crossings funds to local communities Hunger benefiting the Milford Governor Eric J. Holcomb and the Indiana Department of Transportation gathered Friday, Nov. 3, at the Eagles Theatre with cities, towns and counties from across northeast Indiana receiving portions of the $91.5 million awarded through the Community Crossings matching grant program, a component of Governor Holcomb’s Next Level Roads program.

“Community Crossings continues to provide opportunities for Indiana local communities, large and small, to make connectivity and safety road improvements for Hoosier families and our visitors,” Gov. Holcomb said. “The importance of this matching grant program is immediately obvious

as we take our award-winning statewide infrastructure network to the next level.”

Communities submitted applications for funding during a highly competitive call for projects in July. Funding for Community Crossings comes from the state’s local road and bridge matching grant fund. The Community Crossings initiative has provided nearly $1.5 billion in state matching funds for local road improvement projects since 2016.

“It’s encouraging to see continued dedication and commitment to transportation infrastructure at the local level,” INDOT Commissioner Mike Smith said. “Seeing the completed projects from

this program is a reward in itself and a win for the state.”

State legislators identified long-term funding for Community Crossings as part of House Enrolled Act 1002, passed by the General Assembly and signed into law by Gov. Holcomb in April 2017.

Among the communities that were awarded part of the funds were North Webster, $294,000; North Manchester, $510,674.99; and Kosciusko County, $855,949.50.

A list of all 188 communities receiving matching funds in the 2023 fall call for projects is available on INDOT’s website. The next call for projects will open in January.

Food Bank brought out a big crowd Saturday, Nov. 4.

The goal for the event was to raise $40,000 which would go into the food bank’s operation fund, although Bill Doege, operations manager, said he hoped a higher amount would be raised.

Saturday was a beautiful fall day with temps in the low 60s.

Approximately 150 participants turned out for the 2, 1 and 1/2 mile run/walk event. Doege said the number of participants was triple over last year’s event.

“Last year was unbelievably bad, it was rainy and windy,” he said.

By 5 p.m. the parking lot of Milford School was full and those attending the haystack supper and auctions were parking along the tennis courts.

Inside, people checked in to get their bidding paddle which was used for both the silent and live auctions then lined up for food.

The silent auction featured approximately 84 baked items ranging from a variety of freshly baked breads to homemade cookies, candies and pies. There were several entries up for bid from local favorite, Dan’s Pies.

In the school gym, there were several long tables laden with

DECISIONS, DECISIONS — Lola Stoller goes through the food line, deciding what she wants on her haystack during the third annual Gobble Up Hunger event for the Milford Food Bank. In the back is her dad, Chris Stoller. Photo by Lauren Zeugner. items that would go up for bid in the live auction including a hammock, refrigerator, a painting done by local artist Judy Marquart, lots of toys, tools as well as a hand made fire pit and several baskets from local businesses.

“We got a lot of nice stuff,” Doege said. Over 200 items went up on the auction block with Brian Wuthrich from Hahn Auctioneers and Lee Beer with Schrader Real Estate and Auctions handling the bidding.

Assisting with the event were approximately seven local churches and members of the Fairfield High School cosmetology class, which chose the event as a community service project.

Prior to the start of the live auction, Regg Beer, director of the food bank, told the crowd the food bank is distributing 280,000 pounds of food a month to area food pantries.

The board of directors for the food bank would like to see that grow to 350,000 pounds a month next year.

Beer also spoke of the food bank’s plans to expand across the street sometime in the near future.

The old house will eventually be torn down and a warehouse will be built where an additional 370 pallets of food can be stored.

The food bank is also rescuing food from as far as South Bend and Shipshewana that would otherwise be thrown away.

JOHN BEAMS — Shown is John Beams introducing the program. Photo provided.

Nature loves us back

By JOHN AND BETH BEAMS Guest Writers Syracuse Community Center was the site of a deep and significant discussion sponsored by Chautauqua Wawasee Saturday night, Nov. 4, before a small but highly engaged audience. The theme for the event arose from Robin Wall Kimmerer’s sentiment: “We all say we love nature, but how do we know nature loves us back?”

The event brought together a panel of three regional practitioners of earth wisdom: Diane Hunter of Fort Wayne is a citizen of the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma, presently serving as Myaamia heritage preservation specialist. Cliff Kindy operates Joyfield Farm near North Manchester dedicated to sustainable practices. He is also a global peace activist with the Community Peacemaker Teams. John Edgerton is a sustainable agriculture educator and organic gardener of Shelbyville, Mich. He is an activist for the saving of traditional seeds, preserving them against the ravages of commercialization and genetic engineering. Beth Beams moderated the panel. Her

partner, John, introduced the program.

All three of the speakers agreed that loving and honoring “nature” does not leave humans out of the picture. Humans are part of nature. Diane Hunter shared that the ancient Myaamia people have always asserted their human needs in the context of nature. Before Europeans arrived, they had no words for “outside” or “outdoors.” Their entire lives were what we now call “outdoors.” The wigwam lodges were for “storing our stuff,” not for hunkering down against the elements.

Native Americans always conducted controlled burns, reducing dry tinder both to avert massive forest fires and to make a more pleasant environment for humans. John Edgerton noted that what we now call “corn” was originally a form of grass that Native Americans tended and nurtured over millennia to develop a grain of high nutritional quality. They did not obtain the idea of agriculture from Europeans, but had highly developed sustainable gardening methods long before contact.

Native Americans’ relationship

with nature was not one of ownership or exploitation but of cooperation and gratitude. The harvest was to take only what one needs, being aware of future harvests and what the earth requires to support all that she sustains. Clean water, healthy soil and vibrant forests require a balance that we humans so often disrupt in our rush to “get ahead.” American Colonial leaders were critical of native populations for wanting to share everything.

Their lack of desire to “get ahead” was seen as an impairment to colonization.

The Chautauqua gathering Saturday night affirmed that a relationship of care and reciprocity reflects our love of nature and her loving us back in equal measure.

The tools we employ to enhance our productivity are a reflection of our attention to care and reciprocity.

The audience on this Chautauqua evening listened and participated in this dialogue, creating a feeling of shared vision and community around the room. These three speakers, John, Diane and Cliff, reminded us that humans have a place in this world, and with care and humility, we can feel how much nature loves us back.

Affordable health screenings coming to Syracuse Residents living in and around the Syracuse, Indiana can learn about their risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, and other chronic, serious conditions with affordable screenings

by Life Line Screening. Calvary United Methodist Church will host this community event on 12/6/2023. The site is located at 801 South Huntington Street in

Syracuse.

Screenings can check for: The level of plaque buildup in your arteries, related to risk for cardiovascular disease, stroke and overall vascular health.

HDL and LDL Cholesterol levels Diabetes risk Kidney and thyroid function, and more

Screenings are affordable and convenient. Free parking is also available.

Special package pricing starts at $159, but consultants will work with you to create a package that is right for you based on your age and risk factors. Call 1-877-2371287 or visit our website at lifelinescreening.com. Preregistration is required.

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www.the-papers.com — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wednesday, November 8, 2023

6

Sports

SENIOR GRAPPLERS — The Warriors have healthy number of seniors this season. Front row from left: Titus Taylor, Kaleb Salazar, Adaline Haynes, Ciara Rodriguez and Deserae Vetor. Back row from left: Joshua Trujillo, Donovan Blair, Adam Jackson and Jaxon Senter. Not pictured include Boe Click, Colton Coburn and Brooke Catron. Photo by Nathan Pace.

New coach, same goals for Wawasee wrestling team

By NATHAN PACE Sports Editor

LEADING SCORER — Senior Kaydence Shepherd is the leading scorer for Wawasee through two games.

Coming off a sectional title and multiple individuals at the state meet, Wawasee wrestling will look to keep momentum while also having a new coach this season. Jamie Salazar takes over for Frank Bumgardner after serving as an assistant for 13 seasons.

“Wawasee is known for its long tradition of wrestling. Hopefully we can continue to build where we left off and take it to the next level,” Salazar said. “I’ve been coaching these guys for a long time. Since they were 4-years-old for 80, 90 percent of them.”

Salazar wrestled as a student at Wawasee and went to state in 1999.

He later wrestled in college at Manchester University. After coaching stops in Illinois and Florida, Salazar

began a youth program back home and has been coaching at Wawasee ever since.

“I think everybody is excited. We return three state qualifiers this year. We have the most numbers we’ve ever had on our girls program.

We have almost a full roster for the girls team. A lot of young talent on the guys and girls,” Salazar said.

“It’s going to be a different mindset this year and I am looking forward to seeing what we can do.”

Four boys qualified for state last year and only one graduated in Hunter Miller. Donovan Blair, Kaleb Salazar, Cameron Senter all return with hopes of making back to state in February. Several more came close to qualifying last year too.

Senior Titus Taylor is one of the seniors hoping to have a strong finish to their wrestling tenure at Wawasee.

“I’m excited to be with all my friends because we all started in the sixth grade in middle school and moving up together. It’s a really cool thing to be seniors and part of the program,” Taylor said. “It’s a really historical program.”

The girls had their first state finisher last year in freshman Alexandria Garcia. She was eighth in her class at the state meet.

Brooke Catron nearly reached state as well and is now a senior for the Warriors.

Senior Deserae Vetor is glad the program continues to grow in girls wrestling with almost a full roster.

Vetor is in her second year wrestling as the girls program started last year.

“It’s amazing, don’t be intimidated by it as much as it seems it would be scary, you have everybody supporting you and cheering you

on. Even the guys cheer you on.

They understand how hard it is,” Vetor said. “I hope that the program continues to grow and add our own names for state winners.”

While the coaching staff has changed, so has the postseason format. They will no longer travel to East Chicago for semistate but instead head to Fort Wayne.

Wawasee opens the season at home 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17 against Bellmont.

“It’s going to be high energy,” Salazar said on the opener. “It’s going to be hard to explain it, your just going to have to come out and see it. We are going to be wrestling under the spotlight. Our slogan this year is ‘Strictly business.’ We want to focus on doing the best that we can and what we know. Just improving and developing those strategies to the best of our abilities.”

Warrior basketball to host fan event BOX OUT THE PANTHER — Wawasee sophomore Kiersten McCreary tries to get the rebound from Prairie Heights freshman Karleigh Keister in the junior varsity game.

Lady Warriors shake off injuries, start 2-0 Text and Photos

By NATHAN PACE Sports Writer

The Wawasee varsity girls basketball team is dealing with a couple key injuries to start the season, but you would not know that from the 2-0 start by the Lady Warriors. Wawasee won on the road at Manchester 37-30 on Nov. 1 and cruised past Prairie Heights 65-37 at home Saturday, Nov. 4. Coach Derek Gilreath enjoyed how his team made a jump from the first game to the second.

“Feels good, I wasn’t overly thrilled with how we finished the Manchester game,” Gilreath said. “Much better job of finishing the game and playing all four quarters tonight. Nice that we were able to get everybody involved more than what we did the other night.”

The visiting Panthers of Prairie Heights had a 9-2 lead early in the game and led 11-7 in the first quarter. From that moment on, Wawasee ended the first half on a 35-2 run to carry a 42-13 advantage into the locker room.

“For us it’s our defensive pressure. Our offense kind of goes as our defense goes,” Gilreath said.

“They were having a hard time handling our press a little bit.

For us, that leaves easy baskets when we get out and run in transition.”

Wawasee created close to 20 Prairie Heights turnovers in the first half and the Panthers committed 26 for the game.

“We are an intense defensive

team and that’s what we pride ourselves on,” Gilreath said.

The Warriors routed the Panthers despite being down two players. Junior Molly Beer is still rehabbing from an ACL injury during soccer season. Senior Brooklynn Gibson has a back injury that kept her out of the lineup. She hopes to be back soon.

Beer was regular starter last season while Gibson played the most minutes off the bench.

Wawasee only had seven healthy varsity players available Saturday.

Junior Ava Couture is filling in for Beer in the starting lineup and tied for a game-high 16 points against Prairie Heights.

“Not having those two was bit of a big blow for us to start the year. Ava stepped up an filled in the starting spot for Molly. She 16 points in the first half tonight.

That’s huge for us to get that production out of her,” Gilreath said.

Couture appreciates the chemistry the team has to help people fill in for injured players.

“I think we did really good with communication on the bench and really good on the floor. Better than what we did last year. I think we are doing really good on our chemistry on the court.

Knowing where everyone is at,” Couture said.

Junior Mackenzie Hackleman also added 16 points with 15 coming from senior Kaydence Shepherd, who led the team against Manchester with 12. Junior Olivia Horn finished in double-digits with 11.

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Get to know Wawasee senior basketball player Kaydence Shepherd. Shepherd plays golf and track in addition to basketball, but hoops remains her favorite sport.

Favorite basketball memory?

Probably be my sophomore year, I had just gotten my license and we went to go senior shop for our seniors that year.

My car decided to break down and we thought it was going to blow up so we all started running out of it screaming. It’s really funny to look back on.

What are your plans after high school?

I’m going to college. Not sure where yet but I’m thinking somewhere in Fort Wayne or at least close to home.

Favorite thing to do on the weekend?

Everyone says it but hang out

KAYDENCE SHEPHERD with my friends. I like to go out to eat.

Favorite place to visit on the weekend?

I like going to Fort Wayne and going to the mall and hanging out with people.

Favorite food?

Anything that has chicken in it really Favorite song?

Honestly just depends on my

mood. I listen to all genres.

Favorite holiday?

Probably Christmas, I get to see a lot of my family.

A game on the schedule you look forward to the most?

Any conference game. Probably, Warsaw so we can make a statement I guess.

Favorite movie?

It’s called a “1000 to 1.” It’s about this guy (Cory Weissman) who plays basketball and ended up having a stroke and had to recover from that.

Favorite color?

Gray, I feel it just goes along with everything.

Anything else you want people to know about your team?

We’d appreciate if everyone showed up this year and supported the Wawasee girls basketball team.

The Wawasee boys basketball program will host a “Fan-Jam Extravaganza” Saturday, Nov. 11, where the community can meet the team.

The event starts at 4 p.m. at the high school gym where all the players from the varsity, junior varsity, freshman and middle school teams will be introduced. Each team will have a short scrimmage plus a threepoint shooting contest and free throw contest as well. A dunk contest among the high school players will take place too.

The event is a fundraiser for the basketball program with a minimum donation of $5 required to attend.

Wawasee welcomes Lou Lefevre as its new basketball head coach this season. The Warriors will go on the road for a scrimmage at Wabash on Thursday, Nov. 16 and will open the season at Fairfield Tuesday, Nov. 21.

Defending champs fly over Lady Warriors

By NATHAN PACE Sports Editor With a chance for a 3-0 start and for a win against a defending state champion, Wawasee traveled to neighbor Fairfield Tuesday, Nov. 7.

However, the host Falcons kept the shorter Lady Warriors away from the basket as Wawasee scored just 27 points in a 44-27 defeat.

“We learned that we’ve got to figure out how to guard the post.

We can’t fall in love with shooting all perimeter shots,” coach Derek Gilreath said. “Down the stretch we actually executed our offense a

bit better trying to work the ball inside. That’s why we were able to put some points up there at the end but it was a little bit too late.”

Fairfield has now captured the past four meetings in the series and moved to 3-0. While Fairfield saw its four seniors graduate from the state title team, two of the six players who played the most minutes in the state final are still on the roster in senior Kaylee Dillon and sophomore Eva Herbert. The Falcons do have a new coach in Kyle Hartman.

The physical defense of Fairfield led to a 13-0 run to start the sec-

WawaseeRoundup Junior Varsity Girls Basketball Nov. 1 — The Lady Warriors fell in their season opener at Manchester 40-15. Sophomore Brielle Poucher led the team with six points and sophomore Emerson Krull added four.

Nov. 5 — Wawasee controlled the first half against Prairie Heights 20-11 and went on to win 31-23. Junior Jordan

Sweeney scored seven points and sophomore Kierston McCreary finished with six.

Nov. 7 — Wawasee lost to Fairfield 28-23 but had chances to tie the game late. Sophomore Olivia Frost added 10 points and sophomore Emerson Krull scored six.

The Lady Warriors are now 1-2 and will host Westview 6:15 p.m. Friday, Nov. 10.

ond quarter. Wawasee junior Ava Coutrure was the only player to find her shot for the Warriors in the half as she had 10 of the 11 Warrior points on 4-8 shooting.

The rest of the team was 0-10 from the field in the half.

“Their length bothered us,” Gilreath said. “I think we were not willing to make passes to the high post and the short corner even when they were there. We were scared to get the ball stolen from us. We just have to be aggressive and attacking inside when in those situations.”

Fairfield freshman Madison Jones came off the bench to score a game-high 17 points. The 5’10” Jones was able to win matchups against the smaller Warriors thanks to injuries to junior Molly Beer and senior Brooklynn Gibson, two of the tallest players on the Wawasee roster. Gilreath hopes Gibson can return to the court soon from a back injury while Beer has a longer recovery from a torn ACL. Fairfield is now on a 20-game winning streak and will be seeking its fourth consecutive sectional title later this season.

Wawasee fell to 2-1 with Coutrure leading the team with 12 points.

Junior Lucy Wilkinson scored seven points and junior Mackenzie

DISTRACT THE SHOOTER — The Fairfield student section tried to distract the Wawasee players on their shots all game including this attempt from junior Lucy Wilkinson.

Photo by Nathan Pace Hackleman added five.

Gilreath is optimistic his team will learn from the mistakes it made Tuesday night quickly.

Wawasee hosts Westview Friday, Nov. 10 with junior varsity to tip at 6:15 p.m. and varsity to follow.

“In a good way we got it out of the way early. Now we can improve,” Gilreath said. “We know the things we need to work on and what our weaknesses are.”

7

Wednesday, November 8, 2023 — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — www.the-papers.com

Community Corner

COATS FOR KIDS — The Syracuse Knights of Columbus donated 168 coats to area food pantries and Wawasee Corporation elementary schools. Pictured from left are Vickie Scarpellini of Van Buren Township Food Pantry, Leslie Tharp of North Webster Elementary, Arlene Glover of Syracuse Food Pantry, Don Bokhart of the Knights of Columbus, Beth Becker of North Webster Food Pantry and Cindy Brady of Syracuse Elementary. Not pictured: representative of Milford Elementary.

IN HER ELEMENT — Ana Aves, an exchange student at Wawasee High School, sits in the broadcasting studio of Warrior Radio WRWT 93.7 FM. Photo by Keith Knepp

Knights of Columbus donate coats to organizations Every year, the Syracuse Knights of Columbus participate in the annual Coats for Kids Program.

The organization distributes coats to all area food pantries

and elementary schools in the Wawasee School Corporation, in the hopes that any child in need of a coat to keep them keep warm can have one.

This year, the Knights were

able to distribute 168 new coats to be given out in our Wawasee area. This would not be possible without the continued support from the community in the programs and fundraisers they do.

Alves adjusting to life as an exchange student Period furnishings requested for Quinn cabin

By KEITH KNEPP Staff Writer

Imagine traveling by yourself thousands of miles from home, knowing you’ll not return for 10 months. Now imagine making that trip when you are 17 years old and don’t know anyone on the receiving end of your flight. Such is the journey of a foreign exchange student.

For Ana Alves, the learning curve has been steep, but the young Brazilian has taken it all in stride and has thrived in the three months she’s been in Syracuse. Alves is being hosted by Jacob and Jennifer Lehman, who also have welcomed another exchange student from Germany into their home for this school year. The Lehman have a oneyear-old of their own in the house to round out the family.

“I’ve always wanted to be an exchange student,” Alves said. “I convinced my parents, and I’m here now. (My experience) has been great.”

Alves aspires to be a journalist, perhaps in broadcast media. Being in Jeremy Van Lue’s media class is a unique opportunity to learn about the profession, which is not one she would have in her school in Brazil. She plans to help in some capacity with the broadcasting of Warrior basketball games on Warrior Radio WRWT 93.7 FM. “We don’t do anything related to that in school,” she said. “It’s just normal subjects like math and stuff like that. School here is very different from Brazil. We don’t choose our subjects (to learn).”

Alves also has been volunteering her time in the drama department, assisting wherever needed in the school’s fall production, “The Play That Goes Wrong.” The theater also an opportunity she would not have a chance to do in her home country.

Back home in Brazil, in addition to her parents, Alves also has an older brother. She said it was really scary to leave them behind, but that they are very supportive of her being here. She added she gets a chance to talk to them often. Alves does

admit to being occasionally homesick, but she’s getting used to it and it hasn’t stopped her from enjoying her experience.

“In the beginning (my parents) were reluctant, but I’ve been asking for this since I was around 12, so they got used to the idea by the time it came,” she said.

The Lehman’s took their exchange daughters camping shortly after they arrived. During fall break, they had the opportunity to visit Indiana University in Bloomington.”

Alves is hoping to come back to the United States next fall to enroll in college. She is excited for the opportunity and would like to stay relatively local to be able to rely on her American host family for support and guidance. She has already applied to a few schools and hope to visit others in the next several months.

With a firm grasp of English, Alves has little difficulty communicating with her American teachers and classmates.

She has been studying the language since she was 5. Not only did she study it in school, but also took a private course to help prepare her for her time as an exchange student.

She also has a a strong interest in sports, especially soccer and basketball, although she prefers to watch rather than play. One of the adjustments she’s had to make at Wawasee is changing classrooms each period. At her school in Brazil, students stay in the same classroom for all subjects with different teachers coming to them. The drawback in America is that the beginning of the school year didn’t afford the chance to get to know her classmates.

Alves has adjusted well to American foods. She said her host mother cooks a lot of South American dishes that include rice and beans, items that are typical to her Brazilian diet.

One new taste she has acquired during her time here is pumpkin spice. “We don’t have those,” she said. “I love anything with pumpkins. It’s my new favorite flavor!”

PROFILE

Mobile Meals drivers Volunteer drivers for Syracuse, Milford and North Webster Mobile Meals have been scheduled as follows: Syracuse Drivers Nov. 13-17 MONDAY — M. Gordon TUESDAY — P. & L. Stump WEDNESDAY — J. Rowland THURSDAY — C. Hill FRIDAY — S. Stump Milford Drivers Nov. 13-17 MONDAY — B. Harkness

TUESDAY — A. & C. Haab WEDNESDAY — C. & J. Wagoner

Bridge Results North Webster Bridge Group The North Webster Bridge Group met Tuesday, Nov. 7, at the Senior Primelife Enrichment Center in the North Webster Community Center. Winners were Mary Prescott, first, and Mike Wyrick, second.

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By MARY HURSH Guest Writer Across the street from the Channel Marker restaurant is land owned by WACF and known as the “Between-the-Lakes Preserve.” A tamarack log cabin built in 1896 was moved to this location from its original site on Kale Island.

Jeff and Clare Quinn and Brad and Cindy Quinn donated and financed the relocation and restoration of the cabin, which had been previously located at 6097 E. Island Ave., Pier 723 on Lake Wawasee.

Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation plans to utilize the cabin as a historical center. The front porch will be used as a visitor gathering area. The main room will be furnished as a typical family living area during the period 1896 through 1914. The back room will feature wildlife mounts and items related to fishing and outdoor activities at the turn of the 20th century. The upstairs will be furnished as it would have been in the 1940s and 1950s when it was used as a lakefront home.

Exciting plans for the cabin are in the works. A committee made up of Cindy Quinn, Brad Quinn, Peggy Genshaw, Ann Garceau, Heather Harwood, Jay Jorgensen, Bob Fanning and Mary Hursh has been established to furnish the cabin in the period from 1896-1914.

The goal of the committee is to recreate an example of Lake Wawasee life from 1896 through 1914 and to form a platform for the recognition of George Miles, a Syracuse native.

Miles built the cabin on Kale Island in 1896 and was instrumental in the development and conservation of Lake Wawasee and the Syracuse area. He became the Indiana Commissioner of Fish and Game in 1910.

The committee is seeking donations of furnishings that fit the 1896-1914 time frame. Items for the front porch, living area and back room might include wood and tin dishes, iron kettles, bottles and other period cooking utensils, cabinets, a primitive cradle, lounge, small rocking chair, open-face clock, kerosene lamp, large heating stove,

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cheesecloth curtains, tallow candles, rag rug and steel silverware with bone handles. Back room items could include indigenous fish and wildlife mounts, antique fishing gear, hunting weapons, plus tools and other equipment fitting the life of an outdoorsman of that era. The committee welcomes new members interested in history.

If you have any of these items, the committee is asking you to bring in or send a picture of the items plus a detailed description of the items to

Jamie Clemons, director of the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum at director@syracusemuseum.org.

For consideration, items must fit within the historical significance of a lake log cabin from 1896-1914. If your donation is accepted, you will be asked to fill out a donation/gift agreement document. The museum is located at 1013 N. Long Drive in Syracuse. The phone number of the museum is (574) 457-3599. Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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QUINN CABIN — Heather Harwood, Bob Fanning and Ann Garceau are part of a committee seeking to furnish the Quinn cabin as it was in the period from 1896 to 1914. Photo by Mary Hursh.

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www.the-papers.com — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wednesday, November 8, 2023

8

2023 Veterans Day schedule of programs across Lakeland area

By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer Saturday, Nov. 11, marks the annual Veterans Day federal holiday in the United States.

Local organizations, including schools in the Wawasee community, will be hosting programs to honor the holiday. Following are some of the activities taking place in the area: North Webster American Legion The American Legion Post 253 will be celebrating Veteran’s Day on Saturday, Nov. 11, with ham, beans and chili.

Quilts of Valor will be presented at 3 p.m. For more information, call (574) 834-4297.

Syracuse American Legion The American Legion Post 223 will be celebrating Veteran’s Day with a 21-gun salute and taps at Veteran’s Memorial at Crosson Mill Park, 311 N. Huntington St., Syracuse 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 11. The Legion will be serving a free lunch to veterans. The Syracuse American Legion will also be helping host Veterans Day programs in the WCS system.

For more information, call (574) 457-3261.

Milford American Legion The Milford American Legion

will be helping Milford Elementary School host a Veterans Day program 9 a.m. Friday, Nov. 10. The Milford American Legion will post the colors and students will lead the Pledge of Allegiance. Veterans and the public are welcome to attend the program.

Milford Elementary School A program honoring veterans will take place at 9 a.m. Friday, Nov. 10. The Milford American Legion will post colors. The program will also include Officer Ben Sanders, veteran of the United States Navy, Navy Reserve and United States Army National Guard; special readings from Quinlynn Risedorph and Jacob Bucher, fifth graders; and The White Table.

For more information, call (574) 658-9444. Veterans and the public are welcome to attend the program. Milford Elementary School is located at 611 W. Emeline St. North Webster Elementary School The program will being 9 a.m. Friday, Nov. 10. The program will include music performed by the NWES choir, the reading of the fifth grade essays and presentations by the North Webster American Legion Post.

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For more information, call (574) 834-7644. Veterans and the public are welcome to attend the program. North Webster Elementary School is located at 5745 N. CR 750E. Syracuse Elementary School The Veterans Day program will begin 9 a.m. Friday, Nov. 10. All veterans and the public are welcome to attend the event. For more information, call (574) 457-8839. Syracuse Elementary School is located at 12799 N. Kern Road.

Wawasee Middle School The Veterans Day program will begin 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 10. All veterans and the public are welcome to attend the event. The seventh and eighth grade choir will give a performance. For more information, call (574) 457-8839. Wawasee Middle School is located at 9850 SR 13, Syracuse.

Wawasee High School The Veterans Day program will begin 10:35 a.m. Friday, Nov. 10. All veterans and the public are welcome to attend the event. The school is offering a free meal to veterans. For more information or to RSVP for a meal, call (574) 457-3147.

Wawasee High School is located at 1 Warrior Path, Syracuse.

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BASIC TRAINING — Russ Chandler is pictured in uniform during his basic training in 1977, when he was just 17 years old.

Photo provided by Russ Chandler.

ENTERTAINER — Since retiring from the Air Force, Chandler has spent time as a touring musician, performing classic and country rock at American Legions and professional venues. Photo provided by Russ Chandler.

Russ Chandler: Air Force veteran

By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer Russ Chandler was born in Anderson and graduated from Frankton High School. He joined the Air Force in 1977 while still in high school, at the age of 17.

Because he was a minor, he had to have his mother and father sign off on his joining. “It took me a while to talk them into it,” he said, but he was motivated by a desire to serve his country in some way.

When it came to choosing his branch of service, he recalled, “All I can say is I pulled up in front of a recruiting station and I just looked at all the signs and everything. I thought about it and drove away, and then I went back and walked in that Air Force door for some reason. I still to this day don’t remember why I picked that office. It wasn’t the first office there, but I said, ‘let’s try this Air Force thing.’”

Chandler spent 20 years in the Air Force altogether, completing basic training at Lackland in San Antonio, Texas, before being stationed in England for two years.

When he returned to the States, he was stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota and then Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana.

Chandler noted that there were

some things he did not like about the Air Force at first, but that he came to appreciate his time there.

“In the beginning you dislike being away from home and family,” he explained. “But as time went on I didn’t dislike that, because I had my own family, and then the Air Force became my family.

I think what I liked most about is that there’s good structure. You get to meet a lot of different people from different places and it changes your view on life as opposed to living in a bubble.”

Chandler held a variety of different positions in the Air Force, including in the security and recruiting fields.

“At one time I ran half of the codes for all the continental ballistic missiles in Montana,” he said. After Malmstrom he came back to Indiana and worked as a military recruiter in Muncie.

A few years later, he became a nurse recruiter in Indianapolis.

“That was a blessing for me,” he said. “I became the number two nurse recruiter in the nation two years running.”

He later became a squadron training supervisor in the same location. “I took care of the vast majority of Indiana for training purposes for new recruiters, old recruiters that needed help or whatever. Most of Indiana and about a third of Illinois,” he said.

In his last military position, he

was a flight supervisor with seven offices under his control. He retired from that position at age 37.

Since retiring from the Air Force, Chandler has spent a lot of his time as a touring musician.

He has been musical for most of his life, starting with playing the drums at nine years old. Nowadays, he primarily plays guitar, but he also knows piano and “enough harmonica to scare a cat,” he said.

He enjoys performing classic rock, country, blues, and original songs at American Legions and professional venues around the nation, “as far north as Wisconsin and as far south as Florida.”

To Chandler, Veterans Day is about honoring all those who have served in the military, but especially those who lost their lives in the line of duty.

“Whoever serves in the Air Force, I don’t care if you were flipping burgers off in Nebraska or if you were on the front line.

They all took the same oath, so I honor all of them,” he said. “I have a special place in my heart for those who gave up their lives or were in the position of possibly having to.”

This Veterans Day, Chandler will be celebrating with a performance from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11 at the North Webster American Your One Stop Legion.

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Thank You Veterans

Westrick Family Insurance “Your Allstate Agency” 107 E. Center St., Warsaw (574) 267-3587

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William L. Doerr Army 1967-1970 Pete Hall Army 1977-1980

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Jeremy William Doerr Army Airborne 1991-1995

Tom & Holly Tuttle

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Paul Pritchard Navy 1961-1964

David H. Diersen Army 1968-1971

Morris Durham Sr. Army 1958-1959

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Kelsea Roberts Navy 2012-2017

Donald D. Smith Army 1944-1971

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WARSAW AMERICAN LEGION POST 49 “We Change Lives.”

Corner of Buffalo & Ft. Wayne Street

9

Wednesday, November 8, 2023 — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — www.the-papers.com

School

SILENT AUCTION WINNER — Helen Ann Strycker was the winner of Goshen-based artist, Don Sheline’s painting titled “Harvest Time.” The silent auction was hosted by Milford Public Library’s Friends of the Library.

Every penny raised will be invested back into the library. In the front, from left, are Earleen Fisher, Strycker, Sheline and Janna Stollery. In back, are Mary Duncan, Maureen Haab, Julie Frew, Nancy Levernier, Carolyn Zimmerman, Brenda Bethel, Christine Stump, Carol Haab and Andrea Newman. Photo by Marissa Sweatland.

Lilly Center publishes special edition ‘Beneath the Surface’ This summer, the Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams conducted research on 45 lakes and 11 streams. Lilly Center researchers compiled their findings into a publication called “Beneath the Surface,” a yearly report that investigates and clarifies the complex relationships between land, water and living organisms in Kosciusko County.

Beneath the Surface is organized into two sections. The first half provides an overview of the state of our lakes across various parameters, including water clarity, nutrients and toxins. The second half takes a deeper dive into specific lake groups, organized by watershed. Here, you can compare your lake in the context of other nearby lakes.

In this special edition, Beneath the Surface gives you the ability to compare the health of your lake to what it was ten years ago, thanks to the 2023 Decade Lake Study, last conducted in 2013. To align with the research from ten years ago, the Lilly Center sampled an additional 31 lakes in Kosciusko County. The research team collected data from these lakes three times over the summer during the same timespan as the weekly sampling on the county all-sport lakes.

“Including the Decade Lake Study is a real asset to our understanding of what’s going on in our lakes,” said Matt Burlingame, assistant director of research at the Lilly Center. “Looking back at how each lake has changed over time will give us clues about how to predict and prevent toxic algae

BENEATH THE SURFACE— ”Beneath the Surface” is an annual report that equips Kosciusko County residents with the information they need to care for their lakes and streams. It is now available to view and download for free. Photo provided by Rusty Martinez. blooms. I’m thankful for the huge effort by our 16 college interns and 45 volunteer boat captains to make this study possible.”

The results from this ambitious effort will guide the next ten years of the Lilly Center’s research and inform best practices for lake management today. Beneath the Surface will equip you with the data and the information that will help you make decisions that directly impact the health of your lake and that of your family for the better.

“Research like this is impossible without partners that believe

in our mission to make Kosciusko County’s lakes and streams clean, healthy, safe, and beautiful,” said Dr. Nate Bosch, Creighton Brothers endowed director of the Lilly Center. “I especially want to thank the K21 Health Foundation for their strong support of lake science and the benefits it provides toward keeping our community healthy.”

To learn more about the lakes, visit lakes.grace.edu/bts. Beneath the Surface is available to view and download for free at lakes. grace.edu/research/beneaththesurface/.

SEW SPECIAL — The Sew Special Network of Northern Indiana presented North Webster Elementary School’s principal Lee Snider and school counselor Jim Thompson on Friday, Nov. 3, with a nice selection of handmade hats and scarves for children from early childhood through fifth grade. From left to right are Jim Thompson, Alejandro Valle, Quinn Harman, Graysen Shipley, Adlynn Fisher and Snider. Photo provided by Lee

CONTINUING TRADITION — The fifth grade students at Milford Elementary School journeyed to Dearborn, Michigan this past Friday, Nov. 3, where they visited the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village. This trip has historically been a Milford Middle School tradition that Milford’s fifth grade is now hoping to continue for years to come. Marin Szynal, left, and Annie Warren are exploring a math exhibit at the Henry Ford Museum. Photo provided by Beth Banghart.

Milford native receives Rising Leader award Jessica Camarena, a native of Milford who now lives and works in Warsaw, received a Rising Leader Award from Kosciusko County Economic Development Corporation at its annual meeting Wednesday, Oct. 4.

Camarena works for the nonprofit Live Well and was nominated by Live Well’s CEO and founder Lisa Harman. Harman said she nominated Camarena for her leadership skills and her passion for the community.

According to Camarena, who is in her third year working for Live Well, the organization focuses on well-being, involving five pillars: social, community, physical, finances and career purpose.

Camarena began as a volunteer at Living Well, then accepted a position as a tobacco-free coordinator. She held that position for about a year-and-a-half before she was promoted to vice president of programs.

Camarena’s parents, originally from Mexico, met in Chicago and later moved to Milford. She attended Milford Elementary, graduated from Wawasee High School in 2013, and went on to earn two degrees from Purdue University Fort Wayne in 2018: a bachelor’s in biology, an associate’s in chemistry and a minor in Spanish. According to Camarena, Spanish is helpful when working at a nonprofit in an area with a large Hispanic population.

Camarena made her choice of degrees because she wanted to pursue a career in healthcare, which led her to volunteer at Living Well. Through her volunteer work, she realized that she wanted to approach healthcare in a more community- and preventative care-focused way.

Out of all the programs at Living Well, Camarena said the youth programs are the ones she

RISING LEADER — Milford native Jessica Camarena, who now works at Warsaw nonprofit Live Well, received a Rising Leader award at KEDCO’s annual meeting Wednesday, Oct. 4. Photo by Deb Patterson.

FIELD TRIP FUN — Syracuse Elementary School kindergartners Johvanni Munn and Noah Neff have a lot of field trip fun racing their bicycles around the racetrack. Photo provided by Delana Walker.

‘Avoid Holiday Burnout’ Program Nov. 15 in Warsaw

Purdue Extension Kosciusko is most passionate about. Voice, County Health and Human Scifor example, is a peer-to-peer ence educator Shannon Shepherd program about featuring prevenwill be presenting “Avoid Holiday tative messaging on vaping and Burnout” on Wednesday, Nov. 15. tobacco use. The youth plan their The program will take place own meetings, but Living Well from noon to 1 p.m. in the Home helps them with whatever they need. There is already a youth team at Wawasee High School and members of the Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy at Tippecanoe Valley High School are interested in doing something with Voice as well, preparing to start a team there.

Camarena is also passionate about Baby and Me Tobacco Free, a program that incentivizes expectant mothers to quit with vouchers for diapers and baby wipes. The program continues Hard, Rusty, Smelly Water... for six months postpartum to we have the solution. encourage them to stay tobacco free.

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and Family Arts Building at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds, 1400 E. Smith St., Warsaw.

The holidays bring pressure and obligations and there are individuals who don’t handle either of those well, thus sending them

into bouts of anxiety or depression.

This program will give tips and tricks on how to prioritize self-care and overall a healthy well-being.

Call the Purdue Extension office at (574) 372-2340 by Friday, Nov. 10, to register.

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www.the-papers.com — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wednesday, November 8, 2023

10

CLEAN OUT YOUR CLOSETS & SELL YOUR ITEMS IN THE CLASSIFIEDS!

To Place A Classified Ad, Call (574) 457-3666, Syracuse Or (574) 658-4111, Milford

It happened in Syracuse ... 50 years ago

Betts family returns from three years in Germany 10 YEARS AGO, NOV. 6, 2013 Syracuse Lions Barbara Grumme, Judy Jarrett and Jerry Wright presented dictionaries to Syracuse Elementary third-grad-

ers following a presentation by Lion Grumme. This is the fifth year for the Syracuse Lions Club to present dictionaries to the third-graders at Syracuse Ele-

CLASSIFIEDS Phone Or Fax In Your Ad Before 11 A.M. Tuesday MILFORD 574-658-4111 FAX 800-886-3796 SYRACUSE WARSAW 574-457-3666 574-269-2932 FAX 888-371-2934

Please take the time to make sure your classified ad is correct.

The Papers Incorporated will not be responsible for errors in ads after the first publication.

Ad position other than classification is not guaranteed.

ALL CLASSIFIED ADS MUST BE PRE-PAID

ONLY

$ 25

9

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ONE COLUMN BOXED ADS

$7.60 per column inch for one to three insertions. $6.30 per column inch for four or more insertions of the same copy.

INDEX ANNOUNCEMENTS .................... A005-A100 BUSINESS SERVICE................... C010-C430 EMPLOYMENT............................. E010-E080 FARM ........................................... G010-G070 FINANCIAL .................................. H010-H030 INSTRUCTION ............................. K010-K020

LEISURE, RECREATIONAL ........ M010-M110 MERCHANDISE ........................... P010-P290 PETS ............................................ Q010-Q030 REAL ESTATE SALES ................ S010-S110 REAL ESTATE RENTALS............ U010-U120 TRANSPORTATION ..................... W010-W100

mentary School.

Syracuse Cub Scout Pack 3828 participated in the 2013 Cubmobile help in Warsaw. Winners from Pack 3828 are Brady Hig-

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

WANTED TO BUY

COMPLETE HOUSEHOLDS OF Furniture, Antiques, Collectibles, Coins, Old Toys GUNS Musical Instruments, Anything Of Value

CALL ME 574-457-6754

Garage Sales

A040

I WILL BE HAVING A SALE of St. Clair paperweights and paperweight lamps Friday, 11/10, 9am-1pm; Saturday, 11/11, 9am-noon. Discounted prices. Various sizes & colors. Make great gifts for birthdays and Christmas! 311 South Mulberry, North Webster.

LARGE GARAGE SALE, Nov. 10th & 11th, 8-4. Kneehole desk, secretary desk, desk chairs, hutches, corner cabinets, dinette sets, bedroom furniture, king size bed, pressure cooker, pint cans, new Ball lids, cookware, small kitchen appliances, Christmas decor, Longaberger baskets, croquet set, storage totes, lots more. Joe Riegsecker’s, 29752 CR 56, Nappanee.

BUSINESS SERVICES Tree Service

C170

• Tree Removals • Competitive Prices • Tree Trimming • Free Estimates • Storm Damage Cleanups • Climbing Or Bucket Lift Available

Call Dan The Tree Man

574-831-4381

New Paris

LEISURE, RECREATIONAL Misc. Recreational M040 FOR SALE: 2005 HARLEY-DAVIDSON ROAD GLIDE, 1 owner, engine has a big bore kit, garage kept & well taken care of, 29,800 miles. $10,500. Call 574-453-7182 for more information.

GUN SHOW

FOP Lodge 143 - Rochester

Saturday, November 11 8am-3pm (EST)

Fulton County Historical Society Museum 37 East 375 North (4 miles N. of Rochester on US 31) Admission $4 Call Darlene: 574-936-4431

don, Drew Gamber, Tai Vu, Talan Ball, Connor Coy, Gavin Whitaker, Zackery Griffith and Jackson Coverstone.

20 YEARS AGO, NOV. 5, 2003 Pvt. Christopher R. Longenbaugh, the son of John and Ellen Longenbaugh, Syracuse, completed the Marine Corps 12week boot camp on Oct. 10, 2003.

Graduation was held at MCRD, San Diego, Calif. Longenbaugh, a 2002 graduate of Wawasee High School, is now in combat infantry training at Camp Pendleton, Calif.

Seven local students have been named by Ivy Tech State College to its dean’s list for the summer 2003 term. Students achieving dean’s list honors include: Syracuse — Alexis Hoffman, Holly Silva, Helen Taylor and Karen Sue White.

30 YEARS AGO, NOV. 3, 1993 Although Justin Smith’s birthday is Oct. 29 and close to Halloween, his 10th birthday was celebrated with a Jurassic Park

theme. Several friends were invited to the home of his dad and stepmom, Ben and Judi Smith, Lake Street, Syracuse, to help him celebrate.

Bob and Mary Jane Knudsen, of Syracuse, recently returned from a three-week Amtrak trip to the great Southwest, Their first stop was Denver, Colo. Their daughter, Judith Johnson, son-in-law Al and little grandson Zachary, live nearby in a home with a view of a forest in the town of Nederland, which is 9,000 feet up.

40 YEARS AGO, NOV. 9, 1983 The students of Syracuse Junior High School are participating in their annual citrus sale during the first two weeks of November. The top salesmen thus far are Brian Gabbard, Shawn Jones and Jodi Wells, each has sold over 20 boxes. Selling over 15 boxes were Scott Mills, Sierena Bartow, Heather Ritchie and Debbie Bickel.

Amy Bell, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W.K. Bell, Syracuse, par-

ticipated in the Indiana Music Teachers Association piano auditions at Anderson College on October 29. Amy received the honor of attending the state contest by winning the district auditions in the Intermediate Division.

50 YEARS AGO, NOV. 7, 1973 Mr. and Mrs. Arden F. Betts (the former Patricia Louise Grenard) and daughters, Theresa, three, and Melissa, 16, months are now visiting her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Miller at r 1 Syracuse. The Betts family is on leave following a three year tour of duty in Germany where he was with the army. The family will go to Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., the end of November where Mr. Betts will be stationed.

The H.A. Bursons have returned to their home following a busy season at their resort in the upper peninsula of Michigan. “It will be nice to se our friends and family,” said Mrs. Burson in her note to the newspaper this week.

It happened in Milford ... 50 years ago

Joni Schultz won grand prize award at Halloween festival 10 YEARS AGO, NOV. 6, 2013 Camp Alexander Mack located southeast of Milford recently took first place honors in the Beacon Credit Union Project Spotlight Program and received $1,000.

The camp’s executive director, Rex Miller, said they plan to use the money to help fund the capital campaign to rebuild Becker Lodge, which was destroyed by fire in July 2010.

Ray and Myrtle (Brown) Mullins, Milford, are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. They were married Nov. 6, 1963. The couple has two children: Paula Blosser, Warsaw; and Trisha (Harry) Eby, Bristol. They also have four grandchildren: Sara, Carli, Travis and Jienna.

20 YEARS AGO, NOV. 5, 2003 Abbie Miller, 22, of Milford, will be going to Coleraine, Ireland, to work at the Kilcranny House through the Brethren Peace Service. BPS is similar to the Peace Corp. and is affiliated with the Church of the Brethren. “It’s a retreat center of sorts,” she explains.

Children at the Milford United Methodist Preschool are learning how the Indians helped the Pilgrims plant seeds, grow crops and harvest all of it before fall. They will also be learning about Native American customs and a Pilgrim will be visiting the classes in the next few weeks to talk with the children about how early settlers lived.

A piece of Milford history recently disappeared. The shelter at Waubee Lake Park was razed and a new one will be built. The old shelter was constructed as part of a project initiated by the Columbian Reading Circle in 1949.

30 YEARS AGO, NOV. 3, 1993 Revamping of a building in downtown Milford began this week as businessman Gary Whetten anticipates a Nov. 22 opening date for Nancy’s Store at 134 Main St. Part of the building that formerly housed Campbell’s IGA at the northeast corner of Main and Emeline Street will house a consignment clothing store operated by Nancy Whetten.

Changes are occurring at the home of Denny and Linda Replogle and family on East Beer Road, Milford. The front of the home has now been covered in brick with the old white siding soon to be replaced with a sand-tone colored siding. The Replogles have lived at their residence 16 years.

40 YEARS AGO, NOV. 9, 1983 Gail Widmoyer has been named associate editor of The Papers Incorporated, according to an announcement made this week by Arch and Della Baumgartner, co-publishers.

Miss Widmoyer will serve as assistant to editor Jeri Seely and will continue to work out of the

Milford office of the firm.

Jean Treesh has completed training as a Welcome Wagon hostess and will begin greeting households in the Milford, Syracuse and North Webster areas, Barbara Marshall, president of Welcome Wagon International, Inc., has announced. Mrs. Treesh will call on those new to the community, engaged couples, those with new babies and those celebrating special occasions to present gifts from local sponsoring businesses.

50 YEARS AGO, NOV. 7, 1973 The annual reunion for the descendants of the late Oliver W. Replogle was held at the Milford fire station on Saturday.

Mrs. Fred (Mary) Hight, South Bend, and Mrs. Glen (Ruth) Tom, Elkhart, daughters of the late Mr. Replogle were in attendance as were 47 other family members and two guests.

Norine Sorensen celebrated her 10th birthday on Friday with a slumber party in the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Dale Sorensen of Milford.

Attending were her sister, Marcia, Angie Hostetler, Myra Ruch, Becky Wuthrich, Jill Haab and Annette Beer.

Abe Lincoln (Joni Schultz) won the grand prize award at the Milford Halloween festival last Wednesday night. Petunia pig (Jacqui Schultz) was named the most unusual.

Paulina Mayagoitia-Duenas has been named branch manager for Interra’s College Green office, announced Liz Borntrager, vice president of retail delivery.

Located in Goshen, Mayagoitia-Duenas will provide daily operations, support and coaching for the retail team. She will also focus on membership growth and community engagement.

Mayagoitia-Duenas has 10 years of leadership experience in the financial industry as a branch manager. She is a local graduate of Goshen High School and is excited to work in the community where she grew up.

In her spare time, Mayagoitia-Duenas enjoys giving back to the community. She volunteers weekly at the Northern Indiana Food Bank, where she stocks shelves, and at the Center for the Homeless in South Bend, assisting with financial education.

She currently resides in Goshen.

PAULINA MAYAGOITIA-DUENAS

Paulina Mayagoitia-Duenas named branch manager

11

Wednesday, November 8, 2023 — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — www.the-papers.com

Auction Sales

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Cox finishes triathlon

WAWASEE BOAT COMPANY — Pictured from left to right are Phil Miller, Josh Rumisel, Andy Wysong, Eli Kitt, Ben Shelby, Don McAfee, Bee McCarthy, Dave Haessig, Kim Haessig, Zac Conley, Carolyn Anderson, Kyle Smith, Doug Anderson, Archie Wills, Mary Anderson, Tim Conley, Elizabeth Anderson, Daryl Haessig, Russell Anderson, Dave Anderson. Not shown is Steven George.

Wawasee Boat Company named No. 1 dealer in North America for market excellence Wawasee Boat Company was honored to receive two prestigious awards that recognized the exceptional customer service that they are known for at the annual Nautique Dealer meeting in Orlando, Fla. Wawasee Boat Company was named the No. 1 dealer for all of North America for Market Excellence. This award is given to the single dealer in all of North America that has the highest combination of Customer Service Index scores and the largest market share for their territory. Wawasee Boat Company had the highest combined score of CSI ratings and market share for their territory of any other dealer in all of North America.

They were also awarded the Regional CSI Dealer of the Year Award for their region.

This award is solely based on the surveys that were returned to Nautique by customers who purchased a Nautique from one

MARKET E X C E L LENCE — Andy Wysong, right, shows off the Market Excellence Award received by Wawasee Boat Company at the Nautique Dealer Meeting in Orlando, Fla. Alongside him is Nautique representative Adam Wensink. of their dealers. Wawasee Boat Company had the highest level of Customer Satisfaction of all their dealers in the Northeast Region of the United States.

Wawasee Boat Company is located on the north shore of

Lake Wawasee in Syracuse.

Established in 1929, they are celebrating their 95th year of providing exceptional service to their customers on Lake Wawasee and the surrounding area lakes.

History of funeral service in Syracuse —

Many learned from Charlie Harris

By MICHAEL L. HARRIS Guest Writer Editor’s Note: This is part sixth and final in a series on the history of funeral service in Syracuse.

Michael Harris obtained his information for these articles from The Syracuse Journal, and Ron and Joan Sharp’s various volumes of “A History of Syracuse.”

Like my father Gary Eastlund helped train several young funeral directors. Daniel Blevins, who now owns Yeager Funeral Home in Ligonier is one of the many who learned from my father and Eastlund.

During this time another young man who trained at the Eastlund Funeral Home, was Richard Owen.

Not long after Eastlund had purchased the Harris Funeral Home from my father, he also purchased the Mishler Funeral Home in Milford, building a new Milford facility, which nearly parallels the Syracuse funeral home, on SR 15 South of Milford.

Eastlund eventually hired a young funeral director, Owen to run the Milford operation.

When Eastlund decided to retire in 2001, after nearly 45 years serving the community, he sold the business to Ryan Mishler, Wade Mishler’s grandson, (Becoming the Mishler-Eastlund Funeral Home). Ryan Mishler shares the story that after his purchase of the funeral home, he approached my father, who he had long looked to as a mentor and gave him a key saying, “You built the place, come and go as you like.” This was a magnanimous gesture and allowed my father to continue to serve the community he loved so well.

On Dec. 11, 2009, Dave Colquitt and wife Sheryl (Gary Eastlund’s daughter) re-purchased the funeral home my father had built on SR 13.

In 2004, Richard Owen returned to the Syracuse and North Webster communities opening the Owen Family Funeral Homes, building new buildings in each town. In 2022 the business was acquired by Titus Funeral Homes of Warsaw. And is now under the direction of Cory Benz.

Dave and Sherryl Colquitt continue to do a wonderful job of

carrying on the 60 years of family-owned service started by my father in 1952 and the legacy of the businesses of the Rothenberger, Pletcher, Carr, and Mishler families.

Through a cooperative effort between former Adult Services Director, Beth Smith, and a team of dedicated volunteers, at the North Webster Community Public Library, and the Colquitt’s we were able to index over 100 years of funeral records from the Syracuse, North Webster, and Goshen funeral homes owned by my father, and they are now available in a searchable database on the library’s website — for use by family history researchers and historians.

The original records for Syracuse and North Webster are available at the Eastlund Funer-

al Home and the original Goshen records were donated to the Elkhart County Genealogical Society.

I believe my father would be thrilled to know that a long history of funeral service remains vibrant in the Syracuse and North Webster communities. He would have turned 100 years-old this year and this article is dedicated to him.

10 YEARS AGO, NOV. 6, 2013 North Webster-based Tippecanoe Watershed Foundation has received an award from the North American Land Management Society for technical merit in its campaign to increase awareness and action about decisions homeowners make that have an impact on lakes and streams. It was presented in San Diego, Calif., Thursday to TWF Executive Director Lyn Crighton, joining several other awards the organization has won in the past.

Mitch Willaman, Mathew Pulley, Steve Jones and Jason Stover, North Webster Elementary School, participated in the Wawasee Community School Corporation’s No Shave November last year to help raise funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. This year’s corporation-wide goal is to raise $5,000 for the cause.

Ryan Cox, son of Candice (Singrey) Hine, North Webster, just finished his first Olympic-sanctioned triathlon in Shanghai, China, where he lives. It consisted of 1.5 kilometers of open water swimming, 40 km of biking, and 10 km of running.

20 YEARS AGO, NOV. 5, 2003 For the first time in 20 years, North Webster voters elected a Democrat to serve on the town council. In a first ever for the town, two women will serve on the council.

Bradley Clayton, 18, a member of the Wawasee FFA chapter, competed in the Small Animal Production and Care Entrepreneurship Proficiency award program during the 2003 National FFA Convention, held Oct. 29 through Nov. 1, in Louisville, Ky. He is the son of Ed and Judy Clayton, North Webster.

The weekly meeting of Lakeland Kiwanis Club of North Webster was Monday, Nov. 3. Dick Long offered the invocation. Visitors included Max Scott and members from Wawasee Kiwanis Club. Scott, who was sponsored by Dennis Judy, was welcomed as a new member.

30 YEARS AGO, NOV. 3, 1993 Wilma Mitchell entertained members of North Webster Past Chiefs Club at her home Oct. 13.

The November meeting will be held at the home of Donna Widmoyer, Nappanee. Euchre was played. Romayne Shock placed high and Marie Hursey placed low. Joan Moore received the door prize. Sandra Heck is president of North Webster Past Chiefs and Carmen Danner is secretary-treasurer.

There were 45 members pres-

Public Notice NOTICE OF DETERMINATION Pursuant to Indiana Code § 6-1.1-20-5, notice is hereby given that the Board of School Trustees of the Wawasee Community School Corporation has preliminarily determined to issue bonds in the aggregate amount not to exceed $6,105,000 to fund the proposed renovation of and improvements to school facilities, including deferred maintenance improvements, site improvements, and the purchase of equipment and technology.

Dated: November 1, 2023 /s/ Secretary, Board of School Trustees Wawasee Community School Corporation hspaxlp N.1-8

ent for the Oct. 19 meeting of Barbee Conservation Club building. Edna Lawson, president, called the business session to order. Harold Henry gave the invocation and read the treasurer’s report. Helen Wichern gave the secretary’s report. A carry-in dinner was served, with Mr. and Mrs. Frank Wall as chairmen.

They were assisted by Mr. and Mrs. Jim Shepherd, Mr. and Mrs. Dave Bentley and Mr. and Mrs. Rex Nave.

40 YEARS AGO, NOV. 9, 1983 Mrs. Lavoe Priest of Niles, Mich., spent Friday and Saturday in the Gerald Priest home.

Mrs. Janette Christoffel, daughter and granddaughter from Pierceton, visited Saturday evening with Gerald and Eva Priest.

Don Strauss, president opened the Nov. 1 meeting of Lakeland Snowmobile Club held at Camelot Hall, with 25 members present. There was general discussion about club trips planned

to northern Indiana and Michigan in January.

The winners in the North Webster Halloween party Oct. 31 sponsored by the youth service committee of the Lakeland Kiwanis Club, have been released by Jack Maule, president. The grand prize was won

by Scott Metcalf for his robot demonstration.

50 YEARS AGO, NOV. 7, 1973 A large turn out of costumed participants and interested spectators highlighted the North Webster Halloween parade held Oct. 30. Costume prize winners in the kindergarten and under are: Tracey Shear, first; Steve Carson, second; Tim Keim, third; and Donald Black, fourth.

In recognition of “Mexican-American Friendship” week Jim Hernandez was introduced as a special guest by A.C. Underwood during the Oct. 29 meeting of Lakeland Kiwanis Club.

Public Notice NOTICE TO BIDDERS Notice is hereby given that Silver Lake, by and through its Town Council, will receive sealed bids for the construction of: SILVER LAKE 2023-2 CCMG HARRISON ST FROM SR 14/MAIN ST TO WALNUT ST SYCAMORE ST FROM PERU RD TO SR 15/S JEFFERSON ST WALNUT ST FROM ALLEY W OF SR 15 TO HARRISON ST PLEASANT ST FROM W AMELIA AVE TO WILSON AVE Kosciusko County, IN Sealed bids will be received at the Silver Lake Town Hall, 604 N Jefferson St., Silver Lake, IN 46982 prior to 7:00 P.M. (local time) on December 13, 2023.

All proposals will then be publicly opened and read aloud during the Town Council meeting, which begins at 7:00 P.M. (local time). Any proposals received after the above‐designated time will be returned unopened.

The proposed construction involves ADA Ramp construction, HMA patching, surface HMA asphalt (1.5”), and drainage improvements along with all incidental work required, as more fully specified in the Contract Document and Plans.

All proposals shall be for complete construction only and must be submitted on State Board of Accounts Form No. 96 together with the proper forms included in the Contract Documents, the entire set of which shall be filed intact as a bid. The bid envelope must be sealed and have the words “TOWN OF SILVER LAKE 2023-2 CCMG Project” legibly written on the front.

The Contract Documents, Specifications, and Plans are on file in the office of City Clerk-Treasurer, 604 N Jefferson St, Silver Lake IN 46366, for review only.

The contract documents are available at www.questcdn.com. This contract is QuestCDN project number 8815357. A contractor may view the contract documents at no cost prior to deciding to be a planholder. To be considered a planholder for bids, a contractor must register with QuestCDN.com and purchase the contract documents in digital form at a cost of $22.00. Registering for all prime contractors and subcontractors is recommended as planholders will receive automatic notice of addendums and other contract document updates via QuestCDN. Contact QuestCDN Customer Support at 952-233-1632 or info@questcdn.com for assistance in membership registration or downloading digital project information.

Bidders shall assure that they have obtained complete sets of drawings and Contract Documents and shall assume the risk of any errors or omissions in bids prepared in reliance on incomplete sets of drawings and Contract Documents.

SECURITY: Any person, firm or corporation who submits a proposal MUST file with their bid a CERTIFIED CHECK, BANK DRAFT, CASHIER’S CHECK OR MONEY ORDER issued by a financial institution insured by an agency of the United States in the amount of five percent (5%), made payable to the Town of Silver Lake. In lieu of the above, any person, firm or corporation who submits a proposal and has a principal place of business in the State of Indiana MAY file with their proposal a BID BOND in the amount of five percent (5%), made payable to the Town of Silver Lake.

Proposals may be held by the Town Council for a period not to exceed sixty (60) calendar days from the public opening.

The successful Contractor will be required to furnish a Performance Bond and Payment Bond in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the contract price, each, within ten (10) days after award of the contract and a two (2) year Maintenance Bond in the amount of thirty percent (30%) of the contract price prior to completion and final payment of the contract.

No Contractor may withdraw his proposal within sixty (60) days after the actual date of the opening thereof.

The Silver Lake Town Council reserves the right to ask for clarification for any bid submitted. In comparing bids, consideration will not be confined to price only.

The successful bid will be the lowest responsible and responsive bidder, however the Town Council reserves the right to reject any proposal, to waive technicalities or irregularities therein, to delete any bid item or items and to award a contract on the proposal that in their judgment is most advantageous to Silver Lake.

Silver Lake Council President Medard Murfin, President hspaxlp N.8-15

12

www.the-papers.com — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Yoder receives Leadership Achievement Award Tim Yoder, board chairman of Interra Credit Union is the recipient of the 2023 Leadership Achievement Award from the Indiana Credit Union League. He received the award at the League’s Credit Union Awards Celebration on Oct. 27.

As a lifelong Interra Credit Union member, Yoder has been quoted as saying, “It was a dream of mine to serve on the Interra Board of Directors.” He has helped Interra Credit Union achieve amazing growth in assets and membership during his tenure.

When he joined the board in 2012, the credit union had reached $600 million in assets with 50,000 members. Today, the credit union holds $1.8 billion in assets and serves nearly 92,000 members.

He has helped guide the building of 10 new locations and the expansion of the field of membership from five counties to 24. He has supported new technology investments in digital banking, robust contact center upgrades and online lending plus the development of full mortgage and investment services. He humbly acknowledges the success of the credit union’s agricultural roots making Interra Credit Union the second-largest agricultural lending credit union in the United States today. All of this success has occurred through

ABCDE F GH I J K L M NOP Q R S TU V W XY Z

LEADERSHIP ACHIEVEMENT AWARD — Interra Credit Union chairman of the board Tim Yoder receives his Leadership Achievement Award from league chairwoman, Karen Madry of Afena Federal Credit Union. Photo provided.

Yoder’s focus on staying true to the core credit union principles — people helping people.

Yoder has been Interra Credit Union’s chairman of the board since 2016 and in that capacity has helped establish the Interra Cares Foundation and celebrate the credit union’s 90th anniversary.

As a licensed mortician, his fam-

Church

Around The Lakes

ily business, Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, was established thanks to a loan from the credit union. It is now a third-generation business in Goshen.

The Leadership Achievement Award recognizes credit union volunteers and officials who have given selflessly to promote the credit union ideal and to better serve the credit union movement in Indiana.

AVE YOU noticed the fresh, new look at Heart of the Lakes Antique Mall in North Webster? It has undergone a major renovation and has been given a well-deserved facelift, complete with a new paint job that adds a touch of modernity to its classic aesthetic.

—o—

THE SYRACUSE-WAWASEE Historical museum will have two special open days.

Hours will be 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Nov. 20, and Monday, Dec. 18.

—o—

AMERICAN LEGION Post 253 in North Webster is taking donations of turkey, dried dressing mix, turkey gravy and pies for the community meal. Contact the canteen at (574) 8344297 to leave your information. They will call to confirm your donation.

—o— THE ANNUAL Veterans Day breakfast at Syracuse Cafe will be offered from 5:3011 a.m. Friday, Nov. 10. All veterans can get a free breakfast courtesy of Re/Max Partners and Syracuse Cafe.

—o—

NORTH WEBSTER Elementary School is hosting a Veterans Day program 9 a.m. Friday, Nov. 10. The program will include music performed by the NWES choir, the reading of the fifth grade essays and presentations by members of the North Webster American Legion. The program is open to the public, and veterans are encouraged to attend. North Webster Elementary School is located at 5745 N. 750E. For more information about the program, call (574) 834-7644.

—o— NEW HOPE Pet Rescue is currently hosting an online holiday auction. The auction started Friday, Nov. 3, and ends at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 22. Bidders are asked to read description on each photo for information on opening donation bid and increments.

After the auction, pick up will be available on to-be-decided dates. The rescue is still receiving items so there may be new items added daily.

—o— THE MILFORD Holiday Market is coming up quickly and it stills has room for a few more adult and Kid Market vendors.

The Market will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18, at Milford School, 611 W. Emeline St. Vendor booth registration for adults can be found at forms.gle/a5XcumKufboTi8WT6. The Kids Market vendor booth registration is at forms.gle/5Xv8CdKtrGCH5qHVA. —o— THE SYRACUSE-WAWASEE Rotary Club is hosting Rock & Stock the Shelves on Saturday Nov. 11. The event will take place at Oakwood Resort featuring The Hubie Ashcraft Band and will raise money for local food pantries.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE — The Milford Chapel, 321 E. Beer Road, is undergoing construction to expand the size of its sanctuary. Goshen-based company DJ Construction is in charge of the project and is expecting completion by end of summer 2024. Project managers expect it to be at least a 12-month process. It has been over a decade since the church’s last construction project, which was in 2008. Worship services are on normal schedule, 10:30 a.m. Sundays. Photo by Marissa Sweatland.

The significance of the church

By PASTOR JESSE VORE Dewart Lake Community Friends Church Church attendance has been in significant decline over the last decade. It makes one wonder… is attending church still relevant in our modern culture? After all, anyone can have a personal spiritual experience and it often seems that organized religion is nothing more than a tangle of politics, power struggles and corruption. We have an individual freedom to worship who we want, when we want, most anywhere we want to. Is it even worth it to become part of the church? The answer is emphatically “yes!”

I admit you would expect a pastor to say that, but it’s much bigger

PASTOR JESSE VORE than that. God created us to live in community. We are not an entity unto ourselves. We are not com-

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plete without human relationships.

First, remember that the church is not a building. The Greek word for church is ekklesia. It means, literally, a called out community. The church, as it was, as it is intended to be, is a community in motion, not a static building or place. It is the people of God doing life together.

Put simply, an individual can’t be the church. But why do we need the church?

The apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians, “The way God designed our bodies is a model for understanding our lives together as a church: every part is dependent on every other part, the parts we mention and the parts we don’t. If one part hurts, every other part is involved in the hurt, and in the healing. If one part flourishes, every other part enters into the exuberance. You are Christ’s body – that’s who you are! You must never forget this. Only as you accept your part of that body does your ‘part’ mean anything.” (1 Cor 12:25-27 Msg.) We were designed to be a part of a community. God’s plan for our lives revolves around the church.

When we face tragedy or when we are hurting… we face the pain together. When we are overflowing with joy or when good things come our way… we celebrate together.

We carry each other, support one another, play together, walk together and talk with one another. We are the church in motion… a fellowship called out by God. It is in those moments that we share life together and worship God together that we can truly experience God. The significance of the church is that it is God’s way of meeting the needs of his people. It is a gathering meant to give thanks and to glorify God. Without the church we miss out on the fullness of life that God desires for us. Paul writes to the Ephesians, “The church you see is not peripheral to the world, the world is peripheral to the church.

The church is Christ’s body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence.” (Eph 1:23 Msg.) The question is not, “Is the church relevant?” the question is, “Is life relevant without the church?”

RICH RHODES of Milford recently stopped

by The Papers’ Milford office to show off this unique double potato he grew in his garden. He’s pictured above holding the conjoined vegetable.

—o— ARE YOU in the process of decluttering? Do you have books you no longer read, but need a good home? The Syracuse Public Library will accept gently used and new books on behalf of Friends of SPL, which will sell them during book sales. Donations must be brought to the upstairs circulation desk during library hours. Do not put donations into the outdoor drop box.

Materials the Friends of the Library will accept include clean and gently used paperback and hardback books, antique books, DVDs, CDs and audio books.

The Friends will not accept magazines, high school or college textbooks/required reading, books without jacket covers, Bibles, cassette tapes, ripped or stained materials, materials that have mold or mildew, encyclopedias or dictionaries, greeting cards or VHS tapes.

—o— THE LAST SATURDAY cardio drumming class until Jan. 13 will be held at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 11. Classes will still be held on 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Cardio drumming classes take place at the North Webster Community Center, 301 N. Main St. For more information, call (574) 834-1600.

NWCC also hosts pickleball, volleyball and yoga. Pickleball is 9 a.m. to noon., Monday through Friday; 12:30-3 p.m. Mondays; 6-9 p.m. Wednesdays; and beginner classes are held 3-6 p.m. Fridays. Co-ed volleyball is hosted at 5:30 p.m. Mondays, and women’s volleyball is 5:30 p.m. Thursdays. Yoga is held at 9 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Fridays.

—o— SURF ON over to the Syracuse Eagles for their Jimmy Buffet-inspired Cheeseburger in Paradise bash from 4-8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11.

Sink your teeth into some tasty cheeseburgers and fries while lending a helping hand to the community. Veterans, as a token of appreciation for your service, they’re serving up a scrumptious cheeseburger meal for you on the house!

Bring a stuffed animal to donate to the Domestic Violence State Project. All monetary proceeds will stay local to support the Christmas Adopt a Family project.

Doors will open at 7 p.m. and the band will play from 8-11 p.m. Nonperishable food items can be donated at the event. Presale tickets are $25 and are $30 at the door. All proceeds go to Syracuse, North Webster and Milford food pantries.

—o— VETERANS DAY will be celebrated at American Legion Post 253 in North Webster on Saturday, Nov. 11, with ham and beans and chili. Quilts of Valor will be presented at 3 p.m. The Legion is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, call (574) 8344297.

—o— BE SURE to check Mywawasee.com or the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce Facebook page. Several chamber members have announced their winter hours while others have highlighted special sales they are having this season. This is a great time to get an early start on that holiday gift list while still shopping local.

—o— THIS WEEK, through Friday, is the book fair at North Webster Elementary School. Did you know that the PTO offers e-wallets for your children to use while shopping the book fair? This allows you to give them a set amount without having to send cash into the school.

To setup the e-wallet, go to bookfairs-content.scholastic.com/bf/nwe. If you have any questions on setup, be sure to ask. They are happy to help you with getting your child the books they want and making the experience easier for you.

Message them through the North Webster PTO Facebook page, or call the school at (574) 8347644.

—o— THE SYRACUSE Public Library will be closed Friday, Nov. 10, for a staff development day. They look forward to seeing you as normal on Saturday, Nov. 11.

—o— MILFORD LIONS Club will be holding its next pancake, sausage and egg breakfast from 7-11 a.m. this Saturday, Nov. 11, inside the Milford Community Building, 111 S. Main St. The cost is a freewill donation and the meal is all-you-can eat, so put on your eating pants and give generously. All proceeds go the many Lions Club projects in the community, including Milford Fest.

—o— LAKE CITY Auto, 106 S. Huntington St., Syracuse, will hold its annual Veterans Day free oil change from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday Nov. 10 .

First come first serve for veterans. This service includes free oil (up to five quarts), filter and topping of fluids. Coffee and refreshments will be provided by Coffee Depot of Syracuse.