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Koehler Is Newest LRSD Board Member

Wednesday, December 6, 2023

One Nation Under God

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Commissioners OK service agreement for commercial-industrial assessments To get the commercial and industrial assessments completed in 2024 and then thereafter, the Kosciusko County Commissioners on Tuesday, Dec. 5, put their trust into County Assessor Gail Chapman’s plan. At its Nov. 21 meeting, the commissioners approved ending a contract with Lexur Appraisal Services (part of Vision Government Solutions), per Chapman’s request, after Lexur failed to live up to expectations in the first year of their three-year contract. Tuesday, Chapman reported to the commissioners the termination of the contract with Lexur was taken care of. She met with them personally last Wednesday and hand-delivered it to them. “They received their 30-day notice. They accepted the termination. We had some discussion about some of the issues that went on during the year, and at this point I think we parted still speaking to each other, so I consider that a win-win for both sides,” she said. On Tuesday, Chapman presented a Kosciusko Commercial and Industrial Service Agreement to the commissioners. “This is different from the contract we had with Vision in the pure essence that Frank Kelly, who is president of Nexus Ltd., is going to be training Jennifer Spyres … who is going to be the supervisor of our commercial-industrial department. She’s already jumped in and started working,” Chapman said. “… This service agreement, I’m sure you all read it, basically encompasses all the work that will be done in commercial-industrial, but Frank will be the head of the training, but Jennifer will be beside him. She will be outside with him in all aspects of it while the training is going on.” Chapman reiterated the service agreement with Nexus was not like the contract the county had with Vision. The contract with Nexus is for a year at an amount not to exceed $68,500 to find out how much Spyres can learn, and then at the end of the year, Chapman will reevaluate it to figure out if Spyres needs some additional training. Depending on that evaluation, Chapman will make a decision on the contract and training for 2025. “... I’ve talked to (County Councilwoman) Sue Ann Mitchell about it. I think she is happy with who we chose, and I think we’re going to get a lot more service for the money ... allows us to bring it back in office, which I am extremely passionate about. That is my goal: To bring it back in office,” Chapman stated. Commissioner Cary Groninger

did ask if the contract with Nexus was billed by the hour. Chapman said it will be billed by the hour, but it will not exceed the $68,000 for 2024. “This also includes any appeals that would go to the state. His attorney would be called in on those. There’s no extra charge for that, for them to handle them at the state. There’s no overages. If he has to do more work, if there’s more involved, he’s not charging us more for it. ... ” she said. Chapman said she’s personally gone through every building permit they have had for the last two years. Chapman has looked at what has been done and found 20-25 June and July building permits that were never looked at. “So, we are physically going to go out and look at every single one of them by the end of the year, beginning of January, and we will know exactly what is done, ... and we’ll be able to assess that amount for Jan. 1, 2024,” she stated. Groninger made a motion to approve the agreement, Commissioner Brad Jackson seconded it and it was approved 3-0. Councilwoman Kathleen Groninger requested the commissioners approve a one-year contract with Reedy Financial Group for 2024. The money for the contract was allocated in the 2024 budget. “Our primary purpose in contracting with Reedy Financial is for planning purposes in the future. And so we’re really looking at them as a tool to help us help you with planning and also with the Strategic Planning Committee ... ” she said. Conley expressed some confusion about who Reedy Financial was. Carey Groninger reminded him the county had created a Strategic Planning Commission. Reedy Financial “is going to help us identify — once we have a strategic plan — what items we’re going to try and move forward with the fund,” he said. He said Reedy also will be able to help the county council with some of their financial planning. Continued on page 3

GETTING IN THE SPIRIT — Amanda Torres, office administrator at the Syracuse Community Center, is responsible for keeping her workplace in the holiday spirit by decorating for Christmas. She is pictured here adding an ornament to the 10-foot Christmas tree in the Community Center lobby, where she’s also put up garland, stockings and a few wooden snowmen. Photo by Lilli Dwyer.

A century later, Syracuse star to be a hall of famer By NATHAN PACE Sports Writer A wait that took 102 years is finally over. The late Emery Druckamiller, the first basketball star from Syracuse and Kosciusko County, is headed to the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame. Arden Druckamiller is Emery’s nephew, and knows the type of smile his uncle would have on getting inducted.

“He had a smile on his face most of the time,” Arden said. “He was always friendly.” Druckamiller graduated from Syracuse High School in 1922 to make him eligible for the Centennial Award. It is the first year back for the Centennial Award after a few years absence. The main criteria being a player graduated over 100 years ago and made a significant contribution to the game of basketball in Indiana.

County parks board selects triad for trail extension project By DAVID SLONE Times-Union During a special meeting Thursday, Nov. 30, the Kosciusko County Parks and Recreation Board selected the bid from Triad Associates Inc. for the design and engineering work of the Lake City (Chinworth Bridge) Greenway trail extension. A contract with Triad for $60,000 will be presented to the Kosciusko County Commissioners for their approval once it’s available. After interviewing firms Nov. 9, on Nov. 16 the Parks Board unanimously selected Taylor Siefker Williams Design Group to recommend to the commissioners for the blueways and greenways master plan. A decision on the trail extension was tabled unanimously to Thursday for the board to gather more information on the two firms they had narrowed down their decision on — Triad and Troyer Group. Troyer Group’s bid was $67,000. Board President Rob Bishop said Thursday the board first

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needed to agree on what each firm’s cost was and then talk about what they had found in their further research on the companies. Then, he said, someone needed to make a motion on which bidder to approve. Board member Matt Metzger offered up a comment not related to the costs. He said, “I did talk to the county leadership and, while they did have some reservations about Troyer or some hiccups, they didn’t think they were insurmountable and they assumed that it would be a different person than they’d be working with, and they felt fairly confident they could make something work.” Bishop asked if that was the county highway department, and Metzger said it was. At the Nov. 16 meeting, the Parks Board discussed some concerns the highway department and the Michiana Area Council of Governments had with Troyer on the Husky Trail project. Metzger said Thursday that the highway department also had mentioned that they had not worked with Triad before.

Inside

By DAVID SLONE Times-Union

Board member Mike Cusick said, looking at the costs of the bids for the trail extension, Triad bid $60,000 for the base work design and Troyer bid $67,000. Aggie Sweeney, board member, asked, “Does that include the bid for the first phase?” Cusick said it was his understanding that both bids were for the base for the first phase of the project. Bishop said he personally looked at both bidders again and that “both of them are more than capable of doing this portion of the work. This isn’t the visionary stuff we’re looking at for the master plan. This is for architectural and design work. Both of them are capable of doing that.” After Bishop requested a motion from a board member on selecting a bidder for the project, Cusick made a motion for Triad and Metzger seconded it. Metzger said, “One of the things that I liked about Triad was that they had a representative here almost the entire time, every meeting we’ve had. They understand our needs very inContinued on page 2

Leesburg Candelaria Celebrates Christmas See Page 11 See Public Notices On Page 11

Matt Martin is the executive director of Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame and said Druckamiller was voted by a committee to be the 2024 recipient of the Centennial Award. “We had to do some sleuthing to find family members,” Martin said. Druckamiller and his wife, Emma, both died over 20 years ago, and their children are deceased as well. Martin was able to get a hold of a granddaughter to be notified about the award. Druckamiller took Syracuse to the state championship game in 1921 where it lost to Huntington 20-16. All 16 points were scored by Druckamiller. He had 18 of the 20 points the Yellow Jackets scored in a 20-17 regional win over Crawfordsville. Druckamiller was interviewed in a 1988 article for the Angola Herald-Republican and said Kosciusko County did not have a gym while he played. Games were held in places such as abandon buildings and barns. An old

school house was used as the gym in Syracuse. “I would spend hour, after hour, after hour in that gym. I’d mark circles at different places on the floor and shoot five shots from each circle and I suppose 200 free throws everyday for about three years,” Druckamiller told the Herald-Republican. At 5’7”, Drukamiller was viewed as too small to play basketball at first by a coach while he was in the sixth grade. The coach had no idea Druckamiller had been practicing his shooting in the gym the whole time. He played on the second team while in the eighth grade. His freshman year at Syracuse resulted in him becoming a star in the area as he scored 32 points in a first round sectional win against Ligonier. Druckamiller would become the first player from the county to make the Indiana All-Star team and would play at Indiana University. He also played on the Indiana University baseball team Continued on page 2

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County parks

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS — Just as the Christmas lights were about to light, Sierra Clark-Kern, right, made the joke: “What if the lights don’t work?” Pictured from left is Karena Wilkinson, Angela Deak, Patricia Gall and Clark-Kern.

Meet Milford hosts inaugural Christmas tree lighting ceremony Text and Photos By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer Meet Milford hosted an inaugural Christmas tree lighting on the lawn of the Town Hall on Saturday, Dec. 2. Before the lighting ceremony, Meet Milford hosted an all-you-can-eat spaghetti dinner and ice cream sundae bar in the community building. Right before the tree lighting ceremony, Patricia Gall passed out LED-light candles and a Christmas carol lyric packet. Sierra Clark-Kern gave a speech, calling Milford “a very special place made up of very special people.” Andy and Cheryl Gall led the large crowd through multiple Christmas carols. Karena Wilkinson, ClarkKern, Patricia Gall and Angela Deak had the honor of plugging in the Christmas light cord. As soon as the tree lit up, the crowd ooh-ed and aah-ed at the beautiful sight. To conclude the ceremony, the Galls led the crowd through one more carol: “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.” After this year’s successful turn out, it’s safe to say Meet Milford has created a new Milford Christmas tradition.

Continued from page 1 depth. As you said, Rob, either one of them can do it, but … I looked at their website and some of the work that they’ve done and I think they’ll do a good job. And it’s coming in more than 10% less than what the other bid is.” Voting in favor of Triad were Cusick, Metzger and Board Vice President Troy Turley. Sweeney voted against the motion and Bishop did not vote. With the vote being in Triad’s favor, Bishop said he will work with Triad to get a contract to the county commissioners. As soon as the contract is drafted, he told the board he would let them know when it will go to the commissioners. “I did get what I would call a Swiss cheese contract from TSW. It did not have the scope of work and stuff attached to it at this point in time, but at least I was able to forward that. And then, hopefully, the county attorney can start looking at that. With the holidays, they said it was going to take a little bit of time to get the

complete contract ready to go, and that may delay us with the commissioners,” Bishop said. Sweeney wanted a clarification on what the board was expecting and the scope of work for the contract. “I know we want the design and engineering at the minimum for the base. Do we want more than that? We have the funds that have been allocated through the county’s American Rescue Plan Act, and I believe that at a minimum we want construction of the base to be covered by those funds. But, if the design and engineering is more than that, we’re shovel-ready for construction of another section of the trail,” she said. “And I would hate to have us not be ready to apply to future grant opportunities because we don’t have the design.” Bishop said there’s been discussion about fundraising to get the trail extension all the way to the county line. He said they should talk to the commissioners about how far they want to go with the trail and trail design.

“And, likely, the construction would not be completed, especially past the base, in 2024, so that gives us more time to potentially do some fundraising,” Sweeney said. Bishop agreed, saying those wouldn’t be ARPA funds so there wouldn’t be a deadline for those dollars. The county set aside $750,000 in ARPA funds for the design and build of the greenway extension and almost $80,000 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. Metzger said one thing he would like to see in the contract are some firm deadlines. If Triad and TSW don’t meet the deadlines in the contract, Metzger said there should be some serious ramifications. Bishop said they will have to work with the county attorney on that. The next Parks Board meeting is tentatively at 1 p.m. Dec. 14.

A century later

CHRISTMAS CAROLS — Cheryl and Andy Gall lead the crowd in singing Christmas carols. The Galls ended the ceremony by leading the crowd in singing “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.”

Continued from page 1 and briefly coached the baseball team. After playing basketball, Druckamiller began the basketball program at Tri-State College in Angola. Tri-State would later be renamed Trine University. The Hall of Fame induction ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, March 20, with an afternoon reception at the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame Museum in New Castle followed by a banquet in Indianapolis at the Primo Banquet Hall. For people who knew him, they know Druckamiller would be happy to see his dedication to the sport pay off with a selection to the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame. “He would come out to where I live in Syracuse and shoot baskets out back,” Arden Druckamiller said. He was an excellent shooter.”

SPAGHETTI DINNER — Camilla Runyon, left, enjoys eating her spaghetti dinner while Delanei Runyon enjoys playing with hers. STAR OF SYRACUSE — In addition to playing basketball at Indiana University, Syracuse native Emery Druckamiller was also on the IU baseball team and briefly coached the program. Photo provided by Arden Druckamiller.

TOTH FAMILY — The Toth Family enjoy a pancake breakfast before meeting and taking a picture with Santa.

Steffen, King named Realtor, Associate of The Year By DEB PATTERSON Editor-In-Chief

CHRISTMAS CAROLS — The Wawasee High School band performed Christmas carols during Syracuse’s breakfast with Santa event.

Santa Claus visits Syracuse, has breakfast with local kids Text and Photos By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer Santa Claus made a pit stop in Syracuse Saturday, Dec. 2, to have breakfast with some of those on his Nice List. A pancake breakfast was served, hosted by the Syracuse Lions Club. There was also a cookie and milk station, a perfect snack after meeting Santa. The Wawasee High School band wowed and amazed the crowd with classic Christmas carols, led by Director Tony Pawlicki. The music had everybody in the holiday spirit; even Santa could not help but to tap his toes to the tunes. Set up in the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum was a reindeer food station. Children scooped a little bit of oats and sugar into a bag to leave out for the reindeer on Christmas Eve.

PICTURE WITH SANTA — Aiyanna Birks smiles for a picture with Santa after having a pancake breakfast. “If Prancer doesn’t eat it all, you can give the rest to the birds for a Christmas Day brunch!” Jamie Clemons, leader of the station, joked.

Santa Claus will be back to visit the area 8-11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, at the North Webster Community Center, 301 N. Main St.

Fred Steffen and Heather King were honored Friday, Dec. 1, at the annual Kosciusko Board of Realtors Christmas dinner. Steffen, with Steffen Realty, Syracuse, was named 2023 Realtor of the Year. King, with Meridian Title, was named the 2023 Affiliate of the Year. The awards were presented by last year’s realtor and affiliate, Anna Gilsinger and Brandi Farber. Steffen stated “Wow, thank you. I love crying in front of everybody. This is so undeserved … amazing what you can do with $20 when you slip it to the right person.” It was noted Steffen is a second generation realtor. His parents have been in real estate for over 50 years. Gilsinger stated “those were the days where we had a buyer and a seller could sign a napkin in a restaurant and consider it a done deal. He grew up around Lake Wawasee … attended Ball State.” Steffen lived in North Carolina and Florida for a while. He stated his career in 1994. At the time, he and his wife lived in a cottage on a Lake Wawasee Channel for $325 a month. “That rental agreement was probably also written on a napkin. Ironically their spouse worked at the real estate office before your realtor of the year did,” added Gilsinger. It was noted when Steffen was first learning to sell Wawasee property and they had a listing, he and his wife would go to the beach at the end of the day to swim and check out the beach. “That helped become a first hand expert, knowing the sandiness, weediness and muckiness all around the lake. That is dedication,” She also stated his favorite routine is studying the bible every morning, focusing on all things odd and unusual. For

REALTOR AND ASSOCIATE OF THE YEAR — Fred Steffen, left, is the 2023 Realtor of the Year and Heather King is the 2023 Associate of the Year. Photo by Deb Patterson. their 30th wedding anniversary they took a trip with friends to the UK and Europe. Affiliate Of The Year “I don’t know what to say, other than thank you,” said King. “I know I haven’t got to meet all of you, but those I have met … really been a joy working with you and for your clients …” she said. She noted she wasn’t going to trust anyone on the committee anymore following the surprise, or her husband, who, she stated was to be at home in the hot tub and eating pizza. King, a native and resident of Marshall County, was noted as being a runner in more ways than one. “They not only run marathons, they are usually on a dead run 24/7 with work, family, kids sport, home and camping. They usually do not have a free minute in their week,” said Farber. King was noted as having a true connection with the area through her volunteer work. She serves as

a board member of the Boys and Girls club, past race director of the annual Blueberry Stomp, Kiwanis and a member of the KBOR outreach committee. Married for 28 years, she has an active sports minded son and some of the families favorite sporting vacations have included skiing in Colorado and hiking in Ohio. “Finally, our affiliate of the year is one of the most dedicated people you will ever meet,” read Farber. She truly cares about her relationships with her customers and goes above and beyond to help them any way she possibly can,” concluded Farber. The evening was attended by 145 realtors, affiliates and guests. Additionally there were a number of silent auction items available, with all proceeds going to the KBOR Children’s charity Boots for Scholars. This year the organization provided 25 children with Big Brothers, Big Sisters with $50 gift cards to purchase winter boots.

Obituaries Norman Gibbons

Norman Gibbons, 95, North Webster, died Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023, at Kosciusko Community Hospital, Warsaw. Arrangements are currently pending at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse.

Ronald Hershberger Jr.

Ronald Hershberger Jr., 63, Goshen, died Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at his residence. Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse.

Wednesday, December 6, 2023 — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — www.the-papers.com

Take a walk By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

Patrick Flanagan

Patrick Flanagan, 79, Syracuse, died unexpectedly Monday, Dec. 4, 2023, in his residence. Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse.

Births Kayla Rose Kuhns Lyle and Joanna (Mast) Kuhns, Syracuse, are the parents of a daughter, Kayla Rose, born at 12:44 a.m. Nov. 30, 2023, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 5 pounds, 14.5 ounces, and was 18 3/4 inches long.

Walking beats taking pills when it comes to maintaining your health as you age. A daily 10-minute walk around the block, down in the park or around your apartment building may not add years to your life, but it will keep you much healthier while you are alive. Add five or 10 minutes to that walk every other day or so to make you even healthier. Now speed it up. While strolls can be satisfying, a brisk pace while swinging your arms will not only make you healthier, it should make you feel younger. Mature Life Features Copyright 2023

HELPING OUT — Shown in front of the Uhlig home, from left are Chad Singrey, Singrey Gutters; Jeff Currie, Currie Roofing and Siding; Grant and Danielle Uhlig; Russ Buchard and Jonathan Currie. Photo provided.

North Webster community rallies behind scammed neighbor By KEITH KNEPP Staff Writer

NOVEMBER’S MEMBER OF THE MONTH — Ervin Bolt Construction was honored as the November Member of the Month for the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce. Shown in front, from left are Sue Ward, chamber director, Sue’s Creations; Scott Kuhn, chamber vice president, Tangibles Resale; Karen White, chamber secretary, Caliber Designs; Paula Miller, chamber director, Paula Miller Farm; Emily Shipley, chamber president, NWCC; Shelby Bolt, Kim Bolt, Timothy Bolt of Ervin Bolt Construction. In back: Nicole Nabinger, chamber director, Kinetic Firearms; Chris Trowbridge, chamber director, Maverick Promotions; Gwen Fuchs, chamber director, Northwest Bank; Jamison Bolt and Ron Bolt, Ervin Bolt Construction. Photo provided by North Webster-Tippecanoe Chamber of Commerce.

Ervin Bolt Construction recognized by North Webster Chamber Ervin Bolt Construction has been honored as the November Member of the Month for the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce. A family-owned and operated business, Ervin Bolt Construction has been serving Kosciusko County for 49 years. Ervin Bolt Construction has been a staple to North Webster in ser-

vice to the community. Kim Bolt, company treasurer and office manager, served on the NWTTCC Board as both director and treasurer from 2010 until 2021. Kim, along with her husband, Ron Bolt, president and owner, continues to give back to the community and support the ongoing mission of the chamber. Services provided by Ervin

Bolt Construction include kitchens, baths, room additions, window and door replacement, Duradek, basement waterproofing, plumbing and electrical. The business also provide outdoor services such as landscaping, hardscapes and snowplowing. More information can be found on its website, ervinboltconstruction.net/, or by calling (574) 269-1238.

Grief can be managed By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features One of life’s cruelest blows is the loss of a loved one. The death of a spouse, sibling or special friend over the holiday season can be more devastating. It not only destroys the merriment and mirth of the annual celebration, it burns in a sad memory for all future commemorations. The first thing you have to do is face the fact that you’re mourning. Don’t fight your feelings as they gush onto you. They’ll range from self-pity to anger at the entire universe. They may strike right away or lay in wait to spring out at some unexpected later date. How long they last can be up to you. Most everyone — experts as

well as those who have experienced such a loss — suggest you conjure up and catalog the pleasant memories and consider how lucky you are to have had that person enrich your life. Be thankful for the happy times as you recall them. Monitor your actions to help pull yourself out of your mournful state. Keep trying to have the best day you can, because your feeling of loss is not going to go away. Celebrate your advances as you manage your grief. You may never whistle or hum a happy tune again, but don’t feel guilty when you finally get through the day without feeling tired all the time. Returning to your daily routine will help get you closer to normalcy — eat, sleep, and exercise like you used to. Go shop-

ping, have coffee with friends, and call relatives like you used to. If somebody in your circle is experiencing the same loss, reach out and share some time with them. Talking about your loss, and theirs, can help both of you climb out of grief. There’s no need to place the deceased person on a pedestal. The simple thing to remember is that they were your friend and you enjoyed time together. You’re managing your grief well if you catch yourself smiling or laughing again. There are many support groups dedicated to helping you through your mourning period. If your loved one died of a disease or accident, there likely is an organization linked to that particular event or disability that can provide comfort and counsel to get you through your trying time.

Commissioners OK Continued from page 1 The county tried Reedy Financial Group out for six months this year, and the contract for 2024 is for the full 12 months. The commissioners approved the contract for about $60,000. The county council will discuss it at their next meeting, Dec. 14. In other business, the commissioners approved: • A supplemental agreement between USI Consulting Group and Kosciusko County for bridge No. 227, as requested by Kosciusko County Highway Department Steve Moriarty. The bridge carries South Hand Street over Walnut Creek. • Moriarty’s request to pur-

chase three trucks — two tandem axles and one single axle. The one single axle is for $285,072 and the tandems are $314,777 each. • Approved the 2024 interlocal agreement between Kosciusko County and the Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory for Terminal Services Data, as requested by County Administrator Marsha McSherry. • Approved the word changes in the previously approved agreement for services for 2024 with the Kosciusko Community Senior Services, as presented by County Auditor Rhonda Helser. The next commissioners meeting is at 9 a.m. Dec. 19.

What started out as a simple business transaction turned into a nightmare for Danielle and Grant Uhlig of North Webster. The couple soon found out the true meaning of “community” when people and businesses from around town learned of her plight and offered their time, resources and compassion to help the Uhligs out of a bad situation. According to Danielle, the Uhligs entered into an agreement in August with Jennings Pro Services, a local business owned by Larry Jennings. The original verbal agreement was for Jennings to construct a wooden fence around the Uhlig’s property at an agreed upon cost of $5,800, which they paid upfront, out of pocket. In the midst of the project, a storm blew through North Webster and damaged the Uhlig’s house, including the roof and siding. Jennings told the couple he could repair the damaged siding. The Uhligs received $11,000 from their insurance policy to cover the repairs. A check in that amount was sent to the Uhligs to cover the repairs. In turn, the Uhlig’s passed on $7,000 of that money to Jennings to repair the siding. Currie Roofing and Siding of North Webster was contracted to repair the roof. At some point, Jeff Currie approached Danielle to point out deficiencies in the work done by Jennings, both with the fence and siding. When the Uhligs attempted to contact Jennings, he was unable to be located. In fact, a former laborer for Jennings spoke to Danielle to ask if she had heard from Jennings because he was unable to reach him as well. On his business’s Facebook page, Currie noted, “I am not sure how somebody can sleep knowing they butchered somebodies house.” As time went on, it became clear to the Uhligs that Jennings was not going to return to finish the jobs they had verbally agreed upon. The insurance company refused to get involved because it had fulfilled its obligation by issuing a check, and it was the Uhlig’s choice of a contractor. The police said they could not get involved because there was no written contract for either the fence or siding work. The same was true from the prosecutor’s office when Uhlig inquired about

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Pierceton, Sheila’s Sweet Treats and the Berkypiles of Pat’s Chicago Dogs, Syracuse. On her personal Facebook page, Uhlig detailed her plight beginning with her realization that Jennings was not living up to his end of the agreement. She also shared posts from Currie’s business page that documented all the problems with Jennings’ work. The Uhligs are considering filing a civil lawsuit against Jennings, who has disappeared from the community. She doesn’t anticipate getting any of her money back, but if she does she said she will give it to those who volunteered their time and materials and did the actual work. “God just helped me out through these people with big hearts,” said Uhlig. “I wish I could do more (to thank them). I can’t say enough how thankful I am for everybody and everything.” Attempts to reach Jennings for comment on this story were unsuccessful.

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pressing criminal charges. In short, the couple was out of luck. Seeing their plight, Currie stepped in and offered to repair not only their roof but their siding as well, all for what was remaining in the insurance settlement. The $4,000 payment wasn’t nearly enough to cover the materials and labor of the repairs, but Currie insisted it was something he wanted to do. As the community learned of the situation, other people and businesses stepped up to pitch in to the efforts. Local restaurants brought food to the workers. Tippecanoe Siding in North Webster donated the siding materials necessary to fix the damage. Chad Singrey stepped up to donate the gutter work on the house. Sue’s Creations even sent over a flower arrangement to help make the situation a little more colorful. Several local restaurants donated lunches for the working crews. Among those restaurants were Jared and Myra Pagen of Bar 13,

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Busch arrested for battering Accidents/Incidents woman near North Webster

www.the-papers.com — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wednesday, December 6, 2023

All charges made by law enforcement are allegations and individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. 11:15 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. fellow’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage Kosciusko County 29, 12000 block North CR 1000E, up to $10,000. Officers with the Kosciusko Incident Cromwell. Officers investigated a County Sheriff’s Office investigated 2:41 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 28, 600 report of an animal bite. the following accidents and inciblock West North Street, Syracuse. Milford dents: Adam Pamer and Adam J. Pamer Accidents Officers with the Milford Police Jr. reported the theft of money. 7:20 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, East Department investigated the folWarsaw CR 1300N and North CR 250E, lowing accident: Officers with the Warsaw Police Syracuse. Drivers: Todd Huffer, 51, Accident Department investigated the folOakwood Drive, Cromwell; and Pat2:23 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 29, rick Washington, 33, Willow Drive, 106 South Higbee and Catherine lowing accident: Accident South Bend. While trying to avoid Street, Milford. Driver: Rodney Sla6:02 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, SR 15 a collision, Huffer’s vehicle left the gle, 55, D18C Lane, Syracuse. Slaroadway, lost control and his vehicle gle’s vehicle hit a light pole. Dam- and East Fort Wayne Street, Warsaw. Keagan Vancuren, 18, North CR overturned. Damage up to $10,000. age up to $2,500. 700E, Leesburg; and Israel Perez, 5:55 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, North North Webster 43, Hiawatha Lane, Syracuse. VanSR 13 and North Nash Drive, WarOfficers with the North Webster curen’s vehicle struck Perez’s vehicle saw. Driver: Brian Fanning, 40, Eli Lilly Road, Syracuse. Fanning’s ve- Police Department investigated the while merging. Damage up to $5,000. hicle hit a deer carcass. Damage up following accident: Jail Bookings Accident to $10,000. Kosciusko County 6:15 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30, 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, North The following people were booked SR 13 and North Nash Drive, War- North SR 13 and CR 800N, North in the Kosciusko County Jail: Webster. Driver: Alexandra Spuller, saw. Driver: Rebecca Enyeart, 58, Dec. 4 — Aaron Edward Torbet, George Street, North Webster. En- 25, Bibler Avenue, Winona Lake. 42, 4361 E. Duffy Drive, Syracuse, yeart’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage Spuller’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage booked for possession of methamup to $5,000. up to $10,000. phetamine and criminal trespass. 6:26 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30, East Syracuse Bond: $5,250 surety and cash. Armstrong Road, east of EMS T25 Dec. 3 — Kimberley Jo Watkins, Officers with the Syracuse Police Lane, Leesburg. Driver: Leann 37, 5583 N. 825E, North Webster, Department investigated the folD. Hubbs, 61, South Dixie Drive, booked for manufacturing/dealing lowing accidents and incident: North Webster. Hubbs’ vehicle hit a methamphetamine and possesAccidents deer. Damage up to $10,000. sion of methamphetamine. Bond: 12:06 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30, 11:14 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, North $25,250 surety and cash. North Huntington Street, south of CR 100E and East CR 250N, MilDec. 3 — Anthony Castillo, 25, ford. Driver: Ashley Cook, 37, Wild- North Dolan Drive, Syracuse. Driv4075 E. 1050N, Syracuse, booked for er: David Hartup, 59, West Walnut wood Drive, Syracuse. Cook’s vehibattery against a public safety offiStreet, Pierceton. Hartup’s vehicle cle left the roadway and crashed cial. Bond: $10,250 surety and cash. struck a gas pump. Damage up to into a guardrail. Bond: $2,500. Dec. 3 — Cory Eugene Iden, 40, $2,500. Incidents 5295 E. Bayview Drive, Syracuse, 7:39 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 28, SR 13, 1:01 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, 7200 booked for failure to appear and north of East CR 1400N, Syracuse. block of East CR 400N, Leesburg. possession of a controlled substance. Driver: Tyler J. Stringfellow, 25, Larry Huffer reported burglary of No bond. East Rose Lane, Syracuse. Stringmoney valuing $500. Nov. 29 — Victor Joseph Waikel, 21, 204 N. Perry Drive, Milford, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash. Nov. 29 — Thomas Allen Books, Formal dent on Epworth Forest Road, near 34, 13473 N. Warner Road, Syracharges have North Webster. Waikel was identi- cuse, booked for child molesting and fied as the vehicle’s driver. The ac- intimidation with a deadly weapon. been filed cident resulted in the death of Ri- Bond: $15,250 surety and cash. against a Milford man, who cardo L. Garcia, 36, North Webster, Nov. 28 — Gary M. Hinkle, 45, was allegedly who was a passenger in the vehicle. 304 S. Rowland Ave., Leesburg, driving while During the investigation, officers booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated, noticed Waikel was exhibiting signs intoxicated. Bond: $700 cash. resulting in of intoxication. He failed several the death of field sobriety tests and a portable a North Webbreath test resulted in a 0.12% VICTOR J. ster man. BrAC. Certified chemical test reWAIKEL sults are pending. Victor Joseph Waikel, Waikel said he was driving Gar21, 204 N. Perry Drive, Milford, is cia and a second man home when Small Claims charged with causing death while his vehicle slid off the roadway Kosciusko County operating a vehicle while intoxi- while at a curve. He admitted to The following small claims cated, a level 4 felony; operating a drinking alcohol prior to the accihave been awarded in Kosciusko vehicle while intoxicated, a class C dent. Superior Court III, Judge Chad Waikel was previously convicted misdemeanor; and operating a veMiner presiding: hicle while intoxicated – enhance- of OWI in Kosciusko County in NoEnchanted Hills Community ment, a level 6 felony. vember. Association Inc. v. Nick Baldwin, On Nov. 29, emergency personnel Waikel was booked in the KosRhonda Baldwin, $1,915; v. Eric responded to a single-vehicle acci- ciusko County Jail Nov. 29. Braun, Jennifer Braun, $1,692.26

Formal charges filed against Waikel for fatal OWI accident

A Warsaw man was arrested for allegedly battering a woman. K e i t h Allen Busch, 50, 653 Walter Way KEITH ALLEN Apartment BUSCH D, Warsaw, is charged with domestic battery, a class A misdemeanor; and domestic battery with a prior conviction enhancement, a level 6 felony. On Nov. 8, a Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office deputy responded

A Ligonier man was recently arrested for allegedly threatening and battering a woman. Allen Moises Abad, 21, 212 Mercer St., Ligonier, ALLEN MOISES is charged ABAD with intimidation with a deadly weapon, a level 5 felony; intimidation and domestic battery resulting in moderate bodily injury, both level 6 felonies; and domestic battery, a class A misdemeanor. On Oct. 10, a Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office deputy spoke with a woman who said Abad threatened her two days prior, Oct. 8, in Cromwell. According to court documents, Abad used a firearm to threaten the woman while two children were

present. He said he would use his firearm to hurt the woman if she tried to take the children. Abad lifted his shirt and exposed a handgun in the front of his waistband. Surveillance footage from the location where the incident occurred showed Abad lifting his shirt to expose the front of his waistband to the woman. On Oct. 21, a KCSO deputy responded to a domestic violence report in Cromwell also involving the woman and Abad. The woman said Abad made threats to harm her and warned her to not call police. Abad also shoved the woman into a porch’s railing. She complained of pain and stiffness in her back after being shoved. After leaving the scene, Abad sent the woman two, voice-recorded messages, which were both threatening in nature. Abad was booked in the Kosciusko County Jail Nov. 29, with a $16,250 surety and cash bond.

Thomas Books arrested for molesting, threatening child A Syracuse man was recently arrested for allegedly molesting and threatening a child. Thomas Allen Books II, 34, 13473 N. Warner Road, THOMAS ALLEN Syracuse, is BOOKS II charged with child molesting, a level 1 felony; child molesting, a level 2 felony; child molesting, a level 4 felony; and intimidation, a level 6 felony. On Nov. 29, law enforcement responded to a sexual assault in Syracuse. A person said they saw Books inappropriately interacting

with a child. According to court documents, the person said Books grabbed a firearm and left the scene. Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office deputies later found Books, who was in possession of a shotgun. An individual in the home said she was asleep when the person who reported Books touching the child said Books was going to harm himself. During an interview at the Safe Harbor Child Advocacy Center, the child detailed what Books did to them and said Books threatened to kill them. The child also submitted to an examination at the Fort Wayne Sexual Assault Treatment Center. Books admitted to inappropriately touching the child. Books was arrested Nov. 29.

or Court III: Michael Mishler, Cromwell v. Patrick Mishler, Nappanee; no amount listed. Roger Abramson, New Paris v. Edna Delph, New Paris. Petitioner requests a judgment in his favor’ and against the respondent for the immediate possession of his personal property or its value and for the respondent to be required to turn over to him 1/2 of the funds she withdraw from joint accounts, and for all other just and proper relief.

Marriage Licenses The following couple have applied for a marriage license in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court Anne Torpy: Miller-Bame Riley Nicole Miller, 26, North Webster, and Jaxon Bame, 26,

interrupting the deputy while he was being read his Miranda rights. Busch admitted to being physical with the woman but said she tried to choke him. He told the deputy he scratched the woman’s face while he was trying to get away. A portable breath test from Busch resulted in a 0.29% BrAC. Busch was previously convicted of battery in Kosciusko County in May 2015. Busch has already been arrested and released on his own recognizance. He has an initial hearing at 1 p.m. Jan. 5, 2024, in Kosciusko Superior Court Two.

Castillo arrested for battering Kosciusko County jail officer Anthony Castillo, 25, 4075 E. CR 1050N, Syracuse, is facing charges for battering a police officer while being booked in the KosANTHONY ciusko CounCASTILLO ty Jail. He is charged with battery resulting

in bodily injury to a public safety official, a level 5 felony; and resisting law enforcement, a class A misdemeanor. On Nov. 12, two KCJ officers were booking Castillo into the jail when Castillo began walking away from the booking counter. According to court documents, Castillo disregarded the officers’ commands to stop walking. When one of the officers attempted to stop Castillo by grabbing his right arm, the officer fell, and Castillo hit the offi-

cer on the back of his head with a cellphone. Castillo continued disregarding officers’ verbal commands and was placed in a restraint chair. As a result of the confrontation, the officer who grabbed Castillo’s right arm sustained an abrasion above his right elbow, and a knot on the right side of his head. A warrant for Castillo’s arrest on these charges was issued Nov. 29.

Discussions on encrypting police scanner channels began over six months ago Discussions on encrypting law enforcement agencies’ police scanner channels, preventing the community from hearing a majority of calls involving police, first began over six months ago. On April 27, the Warsaw Police Department submitted a letter to the Kosciusko County Public Safety Communications Technology Committee, requesting WPD’s channel be encrypted. WPD cited technological ad-

Court News

Plenaries Allen Moises Abad arrested for Elkhart County following plenaries have threatening, battering woman beenTheawarded in Elkhart Superi-

to a battery at a residence near North Webster. The deputy spoke with a woman while she was being checked by medical personnel. The woman said she and Busch had a verbal argument because Busch was intoxicated and did not get his way. According to court documents, the woman said Busch hit her nose and poked her eye. The deputy noticed scratches on the woman’s nose and that her left eye was bloodshot. While walking around the residence, the deputy noticed an individual, later identified as Busch, laying in the grass. Busch kept

North Webster

Marriage Dissolutions Kosciusko County The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in Kosciusko Superior Courts I and IV: Crisp — James Crisp, Claypool, and Amber Crisp, Milford. They were married Nov. 23, 2012, and separated June 20, 2023. One minor child. Jenkins — Rebecca L. Jenkins, Syracuse, and Joseph A. Jenkins, Syracuse. They were married June 18, 2003, and separated Nov. 16, 2023. No minor children. Roy-Stachnik — Mark Edward Roy, no address given, and Nancy Stachnik, Syracuse. They were married April 29, 2023, and separated Sept. 21, 2023. No minor children. Duran-Mendez-Luviano — Luis J. Duran, Cromwell, and Bertha Mendez Luviano, Cromwell. They were married July 22, 2017, and separated Sept. 11, 2023. No minor children. Elkhart County The following couple has filed for a marriage dissolution in Elkhart Circuit Court: McNamara — Stephanie McNamara, Syracuse, and Ryan McNamara, Syracuse; with children.

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vances in recent years allowing cellphone applications to access the channel as reason for making the channel encrypted, while also expressing concerns for officer safety. Shortly after WPD’s request, the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office made a similar request for the county’s channel to be encrypted as well, citing similar reasons and noting the ability for criminals to monitor deputies’ whereabouts from a mobile app. This change was made at no additional cost and only required a programming change to each radio in the county. This programming change was done during a scheduled firmware update in October. Even though the technology committee encrypted law enforcement agencies’ channels, fire and EMS frequencies were not. This still allows the general

public and media access to many incidents that fire and EMS personnel respond to, such as personal injury vehicle accidents and shootings. “The sheriff’s office currently provides news agencies within the county computer access to incident reports, accident reports, jail bookings, and daily dispatch center logs,” said KCSO Public Information Officer Sgt. Doug Light, who works full-time to release information to the public on behalf of Kosciusko County Sheriff Jim Smith. “Additionally, the sheriff’s office is currently working with its software vendor to create a ‘citizen resource center,’” said Light. “This will easily allow the public access to a wide range of activity and calls for service logs through the sheriff’s office app and website. This will further our ability to remain transparent with the community we serve.”

MFD to test new tornado sirens The Milford Fire Department will be testing the new tornado sirens at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7. Both of the sirens will go off at the same time and will last approximately 10 to 20 seconds. The

sirens are located at Waubee Lake Park and Milford’s water tower. The fire department will continue to test the sirens on a monthly basis, the first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m.

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Wednesday, December 6, 2023 — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — www.the-papers.com

Melissa Boggs to run for Kosciusko County Clerk

DAMAGE TO THE BACK OF THE HOME — Two firefighters continue to extinguish the fire on the back of a residence at 4464 E. 1300N, Syracuse. The blaze, which started in the garage, spread to the house, which caused the siding to melt.

Melissa Boggs has announced her intent to run for the position of Kosciusko County Clerk of Circuit and Superior Courts. Boggs is entering her 25th year as a county employee, with 21 years as a member of the clerk’s office. She worked for former Kosciusko Superior Court Three Judge Joe Sutton as his secretary from 2009 to 2013, leaving to become chief deputy under current Clerk Ann Torpy. “I have spent half my life working in the clerk’s office and the courts,” said Boggs. “With that experience, I feel I am suited to be the next clerk of Circuit and Superior courts.”

As chief deputy, Boggs works closely with the clerk in matters that come before the clerk’s office, and assists the public, trains staff and communicates with offices within the Kosciusko County Justice Building. Her main responsibility in the office is voter registration and assisting the clerk and county election board in election management. Boggs grew up in northwest Indiana and moved to Warsaw in 1994, where she still resides with her husband, Denny, and their two daughters. She graduated in 1998 from Warsaw Community High School and attended Vincennes University.

MELISSA BOGGS

A MATTER OF BALANCE — Participants of “A Matter of Balance” practice simple balance exercises. Photo provided by the library.

GARAGE FIRE DESTROYS GARAGE AND DAMAGES HOUSE — A fire that started in a detached garage, spread to the east side of a residence at 4464 E. 1300N, Syracuse, Saturday morning. Fire departments from Turkey Creek and Tippecanoe Township fire territories along with Milford Fire Department responded. No one was home at the time of the fire.

Garage destroyed, house damaged Text and Photos By DEB PATTERSON Editor-In-Chief A garage was destroyed and a house damaged in a fire at 4464 E. 1300N, just west of Kern Road. No one was at home when the fire was reported. Turkey Creek Fire Territory was called at approximate-

ly 11:34 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 2. A full assist from Milford Fire Department with tanker and manpower from Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory was requested. The fire started in a detached garage and spread to the home. Firefighters were able to quickly knock down the fire inside the residence.

The fire was brought under control at 11:54 p.m. The American Red Cross was contacted to assist the family who resided at the home. The home is owned by Carolyn Weaver, but was being rented out. The cause is currently undetermined and is still being investigated.

Birch announces candidacy for Circuit Court

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Birch is a lifelong resident of the area. He grew up in Ligonier. In 1988, he graduated in 1988 from Indiana University at Bloomington with a bachelor of arts degree in economics . He was awarded a doctor of jurisprudence degree from Indiana University School of Law at Bloomington in 1991. He has lived in Kosciusko County since graduating from law school and his admis-

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Meeting dates for the Kosciusko County Local Emergency Planning Committee have been announced for 2024. All meetings, held the second Thursday in February, May, August and November are open to the public. Dates for 2024 will be: Feb. 8, May 9, Aug. 8 and Nov. 14. Meetings begin at 3 p.m. in the Justice Building, video conference room, 121 N. Lake St., Warsaw. Under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act, local emergency planning committees must develop an emergency response plan, review the plan at least annually and provide information about chemicals in the community to citizens. Kosciusko County LEPC was formed as a result of the Federal Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act of 1986. Its

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es on their overall well-being and quality of life. “A Matter of Balance” aims to empower participants to reduce the fear of falling and adopt simple yet effective exercises that can be easily incorporated into their daily routines to maintain balance as they age. The program goes beyond individual exercises by fostering a supportive community environment. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a “meeting of the minds,” coming together as a group to troubleshoot and address specific problem areas in various scenarios. This col-

laborative approach enhances the learning experience and encourages a sense of camaraderie among participants. Cathy Ervin, who took part in the fall session of “A Matter of Balance,” attests to the program’s effectiveness, stating, “It would be well worth your while to take this class because an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. It greatly helped me.” Interested individuals are encouraged to register by Dec. 11 to secure their spot. For more information or to sign up for this class, please call the library at (574) 834-7122.

LEPC meeting schedule for 2024 announced

RENTOWN COUNTRY STORES

JACK BIRCH

sion to the bar in 1991. He is the proud father of three adult children: Jackson, an Indiana University graduate and Syracuse resident; Madeline, a medical student at the IU Medical School Indianapolis; and Olivia, a May 2023 graduate of Indiana University in Bloomington. Birch enjoys all manner of outdoor activities, supporting IU athletics and reading historical biographies. He is a member and distinguished past president of Wawasee Kiwanis, served on the board of directors of the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce, as Kosciusko County Delegate to the Indiana State Bar Association, as well as a member of the and Kosciusko County and Noble County bar associations. He is a past president of the Warsaw Chamber of Commerce and past director of the Wawasee Youth Baseball League. Birch has also served on the boards of the Baker Youth Club, the Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Kosciusko Community Foundation and the Wawasee Building Trades.

The North Webster Community Public Library, in partnership with the Purdue Extension, is excited to announce the upcoming program “A Matter of Balance.” This initiative is specifically designed to address the concerns of older adults by focusing on fall prevention and promoting increased activity levels. “A Matter of Balance” is a free program and will be held at the North Webster Community Public Library every Monday at 10:30 a.m. starting Jan. 8 and concluding on Feb. 26. Falls among older adults can have significant consequenc-

RENTOWN COUNTRY STORES

Jack C. Birch has announced his candidacy for the office of Kosciusko County Circuit Court Judge. Birch seeks to fill the position that will be vacated by retiring Circuit Court Judge Michael W. Reed. Birch is an attorney with more than 30-plus years of experience practicing law in Kosciusko County. He represents business and individual clients in all types of transactions, real estate, civil litigation and criminal defense. Birch is certified to defend all levels of criminal cases, except murder, under the Indiana Public Defender Guidelines. Birch serves as a public defender in all criminal courts in Kosciusko County. Throughout his career, Birch has served as judge pro tempore in Kosciusko County courts on many occasions. Birch is also a registered civil and family mediator for both city and family law. Birch practices in Syracuse with Laura Kaufman as Birch Kaufman, LLC. Prior to forming Birch Kaufman LLC, Birch practiced law as a partner with Birch Law Firm LLC, Snyder, Birch & Morgan LLP as well as Beckman Lawson, LLP.

Special program at North Webster library

purpose is to provide citizens and emergency responders with information about chemicals in Kosciusko County. The law requires communities plan for chemical emergencies and establish a chain of command using the National Incident Management System to make sure requirements are met. The LEPC is part of the chain of command. The LEPC doesn’t plan emergencies, it plans for them. Worst-case scenarios become the focus of intensive exercises that test communica-

tions, command and control, field operations, equipment, and other aspects of an emergency response plan. Emergency responders from industries, community organizations and government agencies work hand-in-hand to share information and training opportunities. Drills are held in different areas of the county to test and enhance skills. Tabletop exercises are sometimes used in place of full scale drills for planning emergency response.

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www.the-papers.com — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Sports Warriors take invite at rival Warsaw Wawasee wrestling took home first place honors at the Warsaw Invite Saturday, Dec. 2, on a day where the Warriors were a perfect 5-0. Three of the five matches on the day came down to a margin of victory that could have been decided by one pin. Wawasee edged out Penn 42-39 to get the day started. The next two were tight contests where Wawasee defeated Fort Wayne Northrop 37-36 and Purdue Poly 39-37. The fourth match was more comfortable for the Warriors in a 45-33 win over Concord. In the championship, Wawasee took out Warsaw 3932. Four Warriors went 5-0 on the day to account for 24 points per match. Seniors Kaleb Salazar and Donovan Blair, sophomore Cameron Senter and junior Ethan Rodriguez all ran the table at the Warsaw Invite. Rodriguez overcame an injury he suffered in the season opener against Bellmont on Nov. 17 to compete at the invite. Wawasee will next take on Goshen 6:45 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at home in the Hardwood Teepee.

HARDWARE AT WARSAW — Wawasee varsity wrestling captured the Warsaw Invite Saturday giving the the team another trophy to pose by. Photo provided courtesy of Wawasee Athletics.

Warriors rally at the buzzer, split weekend By NATHAN PACE Sports Writer Wawasee was outscored in three of the four quarters at West Noble Saturday, Dec. 2, but made it count in the quarter that matters most. The visiting Warriors outscored the host Chargers 16-5 in the fourth period and won the game via a jumper from senior Collin Ziebarth at the buzzer. The 50-48 victory moved Wawasee to 3-1. “It was a night where, for the balance of the game, we were totally outplayed,” coach Lou Lefevre said. “But if a team keeps trying and working and hustling, sometimes a small opportunity will show up for you. If your team is made up of real basketball rhinos, they will bust through that door while the opportunity is there and that’s what they did.” Wawasee trailed by as much as 13 points in the second half but went on a 15-3 run in the fourth quarter. West Noble held a 46-45 advantage with under 30 seconds left prior to a 3-pointer by junior Myles Everingham, which gave Wawasee a 48-46 lead. Everingham went 0-4 from the field the previous night against Manchester, but his three on Saturday came at the right time for Lefevre. “While Collin Ziebarth’s clutch final shot at the buzzer was actually the game-winner, the biggest shot of the game was actually Myles Everingham’s 3-pointer with 25 seconds left when we were trailing 46-45. If he misses that shot we likely lose,” Lefevre said. West Noble (1-2) would tie the

game at 48-48 leading to Ziebarth’s buzzer-beater from the foul line. Ziebarth finished with 17 points to lead the team. Junior Maddux Everingham was also in double-digits with 10. Myles Everingham and sophomore Nolan Holzwart finished with eight points each. While the celebration at West Noble occurred Saturday night, one night earlier, Wawasee was defeated at home 60-44 by Manchester. The host Warriors did not have the size to matchup with 6’6” Manchester junior forward Gavin Betten. Betten reached 1,000 career points in the first quarter and went on to have a game-high 24 points on 11-17 shooting. Manchester shot 56.5 percent from the field to average 15 points a quarter. Ziebarth led Wawasee in the loss with a team-high 14 points. Senior Weston DeLong came off the bench to score 10. The Warriors were 3-12 from three in its first loss of the season. “Manchester on offense, got the ball to where they wanted to,” Lefevre said. “Defensively we pretty much let them get the exact shots they wanted.” Wawasee also committed 14 turnovers against Manchester defense while only forcing seven for the Squires (3-0). “They just outplayed us on both sides of the ball. What they did defensively was not a surprise. They did what we tried to get ready for but we did not look like we were ready to handle it,” Lefevre said. The last time Wawasee began

PRACTICE THE SHOT — Wawasee senior Darius Lewis warms up prior to the home game with Manchester. Photo by Nathan Pace.

ZIEBARTH’S WEEKEND — Wawasee senior Collin Ziebarth led the Warriors in points in both games and had the game-winner Saturday at West Noble. Photo by Nathan Pace.

the season winning at least three of its first four games was in the 2016-17 season. The Warriors will try to move to 4-1 with a road trip to Whitko at 7:45 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2. The contest is the lone game of the week for the two teams with Whitko entering at 3-1 as well.

Wawasee to honor Kryder Wawasee Athletics will have a special presentation Saturday, Dec. 9, for late swimming coach Andy Kryder. A memorial plaque will be dedicated to Kryder at

11 a.m. in the Wawasee Middle School Natatorium. The dedication will follow the diving portion of the Wawasee Invitational. Kryder, a native of Leesburg, graduated from Wawasee in 1994 where he won the state championship in the 100 freestyle. After high school, Kryder swam at Ball State University and graduated from there in 1998.

Kryder returned to Wawasee in 2015 as a teacher and a swim coach at the middle school level. He took over the girls program at the high school in 2019. The Lady Warriors went to the state meet in 2020. After the 2020 school year, Kryder died after a battle with cancer and pneumonia. The Wawasee Invite begins at 9 a.m.

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COACH DEPARTS — Coach Jon Reutebuch, right, seen with senior Dawson Schmucker on senior day, will not return as head coach to the football team next season. Photo by Nathan Pace.

Wawasee begins search for new football coach By NATHAN PACE Sports Writer The Wawasee Warrior varsity football team will have a new coach in charge of its program next season. The athletic department sent a news release Monday, Dec. 4, informing the community that coach Jon Reutebuch will not be back for next season. The release included a statement about the coaching departure. “Wawasee High School and Wawasee Athletics appreciates the time and dedication coach Re-

utebuch has given to the program the last five years as the head football coach along with the many years he has served as an assistant coach on the high school staff and at the middle school level. Wawasee High School will actively begin the search for a dedicated and passionate individual who will build on our strong values and traditions and move our football program forward.” The new coach will inherit the challenge of a varsity team who graduates most of its statistical leaders from the 2023 season. All three players who made the

All-Northern Lakes Conference team in Hunter Tinkey, Derek Bontrager and Brandon Kelly, as well as honorable mention selection Donovan Blair were seniors this past season. Reutebuch departs with 9-42 record in his five seasons including a 2-9 mark in 2023. Wawasee did win its first sectional game in 11 years this season with a 35-26 victory over South Bend Riley on Oct. 27. Four defeats for the Warriors this season had a margin of within one score (eight points) compared to just two, one-score defeats the previous four seasons.

Wednesday, December 6, 2023 — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — www.the-papers.com

Sports

No. 12 Raiders keep streak against Lady Warriors By NATHAN PACE Sports Writer Two teams expected to finish in the top half of the Northern Lakes Conference Tuesday night, Dec. 5, in the Hardwood Teepee. Wawasee was looking to make a statement against No. 12 Northridge and kept the game interesting in the first half, down 29-23. Northridge controlled the second half, however, 34-21 to cruise to a 63-44 victory on the road. Northridge forced close to 20 Wawasee turnovers to nearly double the miscues the visiting Raiders committed. “Once they turned up their

pressure a little bit we kind of went scramble mode rather than relaxing and doing what helped us be competitive in the first half,” coach Derek Gilreath said. Wawasee had been holding opponents to roughly 30 points per game but Northridge had been scoring close to 60 a game. The offense of the Raiders won the night, connecting on 26 shots compared to just 15 for the Warriors. Wawasee did hang around thanks to eight points in the first half for junior Olivia Horn. Horn went a perfect 6-6 from the line to finish with a team-high 10 points. Junior Mackenzie Hackleman connected on two shots

from deep in the first half to help the Warriors cut the Raider advantage in the second quarter with a 9-4 run to close the half. Hackleman finished with eight points. “I feel like the first half we did a nice job of coming out and being poised in what we were trying to do,” Gilreath said. “Did a nice job of understanding the scouting report. Who we need to pressure, who we need to back off on. Did a nice job the offensive side of the ball of attacking the basket.” Senior Kaydence Shepherd also had eight points followed by junior Lucy Wilkinson with seven, senior Brooklynn Gibson

WawaseeRoundup Varsity Girls Basketball Nov. 30 — Wawasee dispatched Elkhart Christian 51-18 to move to 8-1. The win also pushed the win streak of the Lady Warriors to six games. Junior Mackenzie Hackleman reached 16 points for a game-high thank to 3-6 from outside the arc. Juniors Lydia Stookey added eight points and Olivia Horn with seven. Junior Varsity Girls Basketball Nov. 30 — Wawasee fought off Elkhart Christian 33-21 to move to 6-3 this season. Sophomore Emerson Krull led the team with eight points, junior Kiersten McCreary scored seven and Kynlee Fisher finished with six. Dec. 5 — Hosting Northridge, Wawasee fell 6121 to fall to 6-4 this season and 1-1 in NLC play. Wawasee was led by sophomore Taelyn Tom with 10 points and sophomore Emerson Krull added seven. Wawasee will next play at Goshen at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8. Junior Varsity Boys Basketball Dec. 1 — Wawasee dispatched Manchester 4338 thanks to a 19-10 edge in the fourth quarter. Dec. 2 — The Warriors knocked off the Chargers of West Noble 45-21 to move to 2-2 this season. Next game is 6:15 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at Whitko. Wrestling Nov. 30 — Wawasee fell to East Noble 45-

24. The Warriors had pins from Donovan Blair, Cameron Senter and Ethan Rodriguez. Titus Taylor and Kaleb Salazar earned wins by decisions. Junior Varsity Wrestling Nov. 30 — Wawasee earned five pins against East Noble in Treyvonn Senders, Devin Sewell, Kyron Cantu, Zeke Spore and Anthony Hughes. Warriors winning by decision include Garrett Tuttle, Cavan Tom and Gaige Boyd. Girls Wrestling Nov. 30 — The Lady Warriors took on East Noble earning pins in two of the six matches. Cyanna Leon and Kenidi Nine scored points for their team via pin. Dec. 2 — Wawasee competed in an invitational at Penn High School where Kenidi Nine was third in her weight class. Alex Garcia was fourth in her class. Ciara Rodriguez, Tiana Senders and Cyanna Leon all placed sixth in their respective brackets. The Lady Warriors will take on Lakeland at 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 9. Swimming Dec. 5 — Both the boys and girls teams traveled to Concord Tuesday night for NLC contests. The girls were defeated by the Minutemen 12462, while the boys lost 99-87. Individual results were not available. Next meet is the Wawasee Invite, 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 9.

AROUND THE HORN — Wawasee junior Olivia Horn gets the ball pass Northridge senior Sabrina Miller in the second quarter. Horn had 10 points. Photo by Nathan Pace. with six and junior Ava Couture added five. Northridge was led by junior Ella Mohamed with a game-high 13 points and 12 for senior Morgan Cross. The game was also the second of the season for Wawasee junior Molly Beer, who missed the first eight games of the season due a

knee injury she sustained playing soccer back in August. “She is still not fully game ready yet,” Gilreath said on Beer. “Getting in shape to where she wants to be and where we need her to be as far as handling the ball in that type of environment.” The last time Wawasee defeated Northridge was in 2009.

Parkview Kosciusko Hospital is ready for YOU! You’re invited to our open house. Parkview Kosciusko Hospital is finally ready to open its doors — so it’s time to celebrate! Join us for an open house, where you can tour the newly expanded hospital and get a first-hand look at what the facility has to offer. With inpatient care, surgical suites, an ER, lab and imaging, doctor’s offices and more, you have even greater access to the high-quality expertise you trust, right here at Parkview Kosciusko. We’ll see you there! Parkview Kosciusko Hospital Open House Saturday, December 16 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. 1355 Mariners Dr., Warsaw, IN 46582

The Warriors fall to 8-2 and 1-1 in NLC play. It was the first NLC game for Northridge which improve to 10-1 overall and extend their winning streak to 10 straight. Wawasee will get a chance at another NLC team at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8, when it travels to Goshen.

www.the-papers.com — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Community Corner

Mobile Meals drivers MURRAY 95TH BIRTHDAY — Lois Shupp Murray is celebrating her 95th birthday. She was born Nov. 24, 1928. An open house will be held from 1:30-4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 23, at the Fraternal Order of Eagles, 12889 N. Kern Road, Syracuse. Photos provided by Kathy Lunceford.

Bridge Results North Webster Bridge Group The North Webster Bridge Group met Tuesday, Nov. 28, at the Senior Primelife Enrichment Center in the North Webster Community Center. Winners were Mike Wyrick, first, and Jerry Hetrick, second.

Volunteer drivers for Syracuse, Milford and North Webster Mobile Meals have been scheduled as follows: Syracuse Drivers Dec. 11-15 MONDAY — M. Gordon TUESDAY — P. & L. Stump WEDNESDAY — D. & K. Matz THURSDAY — M. Smith FRIDAY — P. Smith Milford Drivers Dec. 11-15 MONDAY — B. Harkness TUESDAY — S. Tucker WEDNESDAY — J. & K. King THURSDAY — L. Kammerer FRIDAY — R. & P. Haab North Webster Drivers Dec. 11-15 MONDAY — R. Chambers TUESDAY — J. & K. Caskey WEDNESDAY — Cardinal/T THURSDAY — R. Chambers FRIDAY — Cardinal/L

Annual walkathon begins at SPEC By NANCY GRAY SPEC Director

NEWEST MEMBER — Mark Koehler, who was recently appointed to the Lakeland Regional Sewer District Board of Trustees and volunteers with the Barbee Lake Property Owner’s Association, enjoys boating on the lakes. He is pictured here with his young granddaughter, Imogene Oriente. Photo provided by Mark Koehler.

It’s that time of year again. The 17th annual walkathon is fast approaching. This is our biggest fundraiser of the year. It keeps us going for another year. Starting this week, you will find your packets and sign-up sheet on the desk where you sign in to walk. The rules and regulations will be in the packet and a sheet for your sponsors’ donations. We already have some very nice prizes coming in for the winners. If you have any questions ask me. I will be in the senior center from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. or call me at (574) 834-1600, ext. 224. If you haven’t been in to the community center for a while, you may want to stop by. As you may know, I have a year-round thrift shop going in the hall outside our door. I am putting a lot of Christmas items on the table, like stocking stuffers and lots of decorations; it will be worth checking out. Our Christmas luncheon is also coming up. This year we are serving ham, scalloped potatoes,

Koehler joins Lakeland sewer board

By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer Mark Koehler is the newest member of the Lakeland Regional Sewer District Board of Trustees, having officially joined on Nov. 15. Koehler is originally from Blue Island, Ill., a suburb of Chicago. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire with a degree in business before taking over his father’s lumber company. Koehler eventually sold the business and worked in management positions for a few other lumber companies, as well as sales at Mannheim Auto Auction. After Koehler retired in 2020, he and his wife Connie, a retired teacher, made the move to a home on Kuhn Lake in the Barbee chain of lakes. The couple had family in the area and, Koehler said, “a love affair with Notre Dame,” so the move was an easy choice. Koehler recalled that since retiring, he had been seeking out volunteer opportunities. He looked into volunteering at hospitals and had already done some work with the Barbee Lake Property Owner’s Association. When a member of the Lakeland Regional Sewer Board started asking for recommendations to fill in an empty spot, Koheler’s name was put forward by a friend. After an interview process, he was accepted on to the board. “We are the governing body that keeps the policies in place,” Koehler explained. As part of the board, he and his fellow trustees are respon-

sible for witnessing requests from residents — to reduce or forgive a bill, for example — and voting on the action that should be taken. “It’s the board’s decision to be financially responsible.” Koehler is filling in an existing term on the board, which will carry through until April 2025. “Hopefully I’m a great contributor, which I plan to be, and I will run again in four years,” he said. The Koehler family also contributes to the BLPOA each year and plans to continue doing so. One of Koehler’s responsibilities for the association regards the monthly testing of the lakes’ clarity and cleanliness, when he leads scientists from Grace College out on the water of Big Barbee to perform the tests. “This association is very concerned about the general condition of the lake, from weed control to sewage being dumped into the lake,” Koehler explained. “Safety is also a big concern. We encourage the Department of Natural Resources to visit often and govern some of the misbehavior.” Koehler is drawn to volunteer activities like these because, he said, “I like to keep my mind and body active, and I’m concerned about the area as well.” Koehler has four sons and one granddaughter. When he’s not volunteering, he enjoys swimming and boating out on the lakes and working on DIY projects around his home. He also has plans to help one of his sons build a house in the next year.

PROFILE

CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS — SPEC in North Webster has a table full of gift ideas, stocking stuffers and decorations for sale. Photo provided by Nancy Gray. asparagus and cherry cheesecake for dessert. You have to be signed by Wednesday, Dec. 13 to eat Friday, Dec. 22. There will be

great food and wonderful entertainment. I hope you can join us. That about does it for this week; try to stay warm and well.

TCRSD notice of engineering committee meeting Dec. 6 Notice is hereby given that the Board of Trustees of the Tippecanoe and Chapman Lakes Regional Sewer Dis-

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KNIGHTS DONATE TO AREA ORGANIZATIONS — The Syracuse Knights of Columbus recently donated $3,328 to area organizations. Pictured in front is Christian Bowling, Pee Wee Football. Behind him, from left, are Don Curry of the Knights; Doug Slabaugh; Emma Yoder and Brooklyn Gibson, WHS Track $600; and Tim Bowling, Wawasee Pee Wee Football, $2,528. Not pictured is a representative of Syracuse Boy Scouts, $200. These are but a few of the many area organizations supported by the Syracuse Knights of Columbus. Photo provided. GUEST SPEAKER — The first meeting after Thanksgiving for the Lakeland Kiwanis was at 6:30 a.m. Monday, Nov. 27, at the North Webster Community Center. Shannon Shepherd, the Kosciusko County Extension educator from Purdue University, was the speaker. Shepherd spoke about many of what the health and human sciences provided to individuals and all communities in Indiana, both in person and online, to help everyone strengthen relationships, eat smart, improve health and achieve financial wellness. Shepherd may be reached by email at shephe52@purdue.edu or by calling (574) 372-2340. Everyone is welcome to attend the Kiwanis weekly meetings just by showing up. Great things can happen because one does make a difference when we work together. Photo provided.

Wednesday, December 6, 2023 — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — www.the-papers.com

School

GOLDEN READER — Bruno Macias-Chavez is one of Syracuse Elementary School’s Golden Readers. He became a Golden Reader by reading 70 books. Photo by Marissa Sweatland.

WMS holiday concert Dec. 12

FOOD DRIVE — North Webster Elementary School is hosting a food drive. The food drive runs until Wednesday, Dec. 20. The school is accepting non-perishable items, such as canned goods, fruit, vegetables, soup, beans, cereal, pasta, rice, crackers and peanut butter. Proceeds will benefit the local food bank.

This is a grade-level competition. The grade with the most donations wins an ice cream party. Shown from left are Emily Jacobs, third grade teacher; Bailey Fuerste, fifth grade student; Odysseus Olsen, fifth grade student; and Leslie Tharp, school librarian. Photo by Phoebe Muthart.

Wawasee Middle School’s holiday concert begins at 6:45 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 12, in the cafetorium. The concert will feature the sixth, seventh and eighth grade choir and bands. The free concert is open to the public. The National Junior Honor Society Club is going to have the

concession stand open during the concert. Feel free to stop by and support them by purchasing popcorn and other treats. The sixth, seventh and eighth grade choir will perform at 6:45 p.m. The sixth grade band will perform at 7:30 p.m. The seventh and eighth grade band will perform at 7:45 p.m.

Operation Read’s Book Boogie program is back Operation Read USA Inc.’s Book Boogie is a reading incentive program for elementary-aged children. Operation Read CEO DeeAnna Muraski stated “The children have a lot of required reading during school, which can make them resistant to reading so we wanted to encourage them to see reading for pleasure as something to look forward to and enjoy.” The Book Boogie program launched successfully for the 2022-23 school year at North Webster Elementary School. Muraski challenged the school to read a half-million pages, and they exceeded it by reading over 545,308 pages. Operation Read secured Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch to present the awards and had PBS-Michiana there to interview all the different people who were impacted by the program. You can view the interviews at wnit.org/educationcounts/s/operation-read-1. html Operation Read recently announced the school selected for the 2023-24 school year is Milford Elementary School. The program for children is optional and each month the program starts over with reading totals accumulating for the whole school year. Prizes are awarded from Operation Read each month to the top two readers in each class and awards to a teacher/staff who read the most each month.

Muraski said “This not only provided something fun for these hard-working teachers; but also, they were leading by example.” Parents are given an overview flyer to be aware of the opportunity for their children. The sheet includes helpful statistics and research on the importance of reading to increase standardized test scores, performance and exposure to new words. They also received a rubric of what counted and did not count. Audio books do not count (because that is not reading but listening) and required reading for school did not count (unless it was specific assignments related to reading a book). Reading to their child counted (for kindergarteners). The program includes children in kindergarten to fifth grade. Each month two children from each grade and one teacher are provided with the top awards. They receive a goody bag filled with: hard-back books, snacks, games, free restaurant meals, etc. Thirteen awards are given each month and one to the top teacher reader. All teachers who read receive a $10 gift certificate (we know how difficult it is for them to find the time). To support Operation Read and/or sponsor this program call (574) 529-5783 or email deeanna@operationreadusa.org. About Operation Read Operation Read fosters literacy from birth to 100 years old in Kosciusko County. Operation

BOOK BOOGIE UNDERWAY AT MILFORD ELEMENTARY — Operation Read USA Inc.’s Book Boogie, a reading incentive program for elementary-aged children, is underway at Milford Elementary School for the 2023-24 school year. Prizes are awarded each month to the top two readers in each class and a teacher/staff member who read the most each month. Read USA, Inc. is an IRS 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization incorporated with the Indiana Secretary of State.

Its mission is to “Encourage the lifelong love of learning through reading.” Operation Read is governed by a volunteer

H O L I D AY HARMONIES — Milford Elementary School held its holiday program Thursday, Nov. 30. The program began with a speech about different cultures and the holidays they celebrate during December, including Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. The students then sang a selection of carols. Pictured left to right are Sawyer Sharp, Rosemary Miller, Peyton Scheeren, Amelia Griepentrog, Liberty Lehman, Brielle Plummer, and Bella Shingledecker. Photo by Lilli Dwyer.

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Shown beginning their reading adventures, in front from left are Lola Stoller, Quinn Haynie and Caraline Deak. In back are Noah Coffin-Auer, Bennett Berkeypile, Adler Beer, Aiden Griepentrog, librarian Cheryl Pearson, and Kensington Kephart. Photo provided by DeeAnna Muraski, Operation Read CEO. board of directors. Grants, corporate and individual donors, and fundraising efforts provide critical support for the literacy pro-

grams provided. For more information on Operation Read visit operationreadusa.org or call the director at (574) 529-5783.

www.the-papers.com — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wednesday, December 6, 2023

It happened in Milford ... 40 years ago

Max Evans resigns as Van Buren Township Trustee 10 YEARS AGO, DEC. 4, 2013 Milford Lions Club was out ringing bells for the Salvation Army this past weekend. Deb Patterson snapped a photo of Steve Haab, one of the Lions Club members who helped, Friday. Lions Club members will be out again Friday and Saturday. You can find them ringing bells on Main Street near the post office and at the Marathon gas station on SR 15. Brittney Barry and Robert Leer, Milford, are the parents of a daughter, Chelsea Renee, born at 7:55 a.m. Nov. 25, 2013, at IU Health Goshen Hospital. She weighed 7 pounds, 12.6 ounces and was 20 1/4 inches long. 20 YEARS AGO, DEC. 3, 2003 Elena Gardner, Milford, stopped by Milford General Store Saturday

morning to visit Santa during his stop in town. A number of youngsters made their way into the store to visit Jolly Ol’ St. Nick and to see if theirs would be the lucky names selected in a drawing to take a ride in his bright yellow Hummer. Dennis Polk Equipment has purchased the property at the intersection of US 6 and SR 15 between New Paris and Milford. Dennis Polk says that the sales part of his business will be moving into the building next spring. New home construction has been booming in Milford recently, especially on Beer Road. It is reported that Mike and Myra Steele of Milford will be building a new home on their recently purchased property. The property, located on Beer Road, is one of many new homes being built on that road.

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

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

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

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IN THE CLASSIFIEDS

Kent Sawyer was seen excavating the home, which will also include a pond. 30 YEARS AGO, DEC. 1, 1993 The special Thanksgiving speaker for Milford Kiwanis Club Friday morning, Nov. 27, was Sister Mary Victor Kercher, pastoral assistant at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Milford. She shared some of her experiences as a missionary for several years in Guatemala and her special appreciation for the freedoms individuals often take for granted in the United States. Milford First Brethren Church has a new youth pastor and his

name is David Watson. Watson, who has been in his position with the church since Sunday, Nov. 7, is now in charge of all youth activities. 40 YEARS AGO, DEC. 7, 1983 Max Evans, Van Buren Township Trustee, has submitted his resignation effective December 31. Evans lists his reasons as added personal expansion. Evans and his wife, Marlene, who own Evans Fabric and Variety Store in Milford, recently opened two new stores, Evans Variety Store and Evans Department Store, in Wakarusa. With the added responsibilities of the two new stores, Ev-

ans has decided to step down as township trustee. Dennis Rumfelt, a former Milford resident, was honored on October 1 for his recent promotion to regional vice president with the A. L. Williams Corporation, a financial services company and the marketing agency for Massachusetts Indemnity and Life Insurance Company. Rumfelt was instrumental in opening the corporation’s Goshen office and is based there. He has been with the company since April of 1982. 50 YEARS AGO, DEC. 5, 1973 Mrs. Charles Kerlin, who will retire as Milford’s librarian on De-

cember 31, was honored at a dinner last Thursday at a Middlebury restaurant. The 22 persons present were library board members, former members, assistant librarians and their husbands and wives. Mrs. Robert Brooks, who served as 1972-73 worthy matron of Kosciusko Chapter 160, Order of the Eastern Star, and was grand page at the order’s grand chapter session in Indianapolis last spring, was honored by members of the chapter at a reception held in the Milford Masonic temple Friday evening. Mrs. Brooks stood under an arch covered with red roses as she greeted her guests.

It happened in Syracuse ... 20 years ago

Area teen receives 4-H scholarship 10 YEARS AGO, DEC. 4, 2013 Syracuse residents Brian and Rebekah Whirledge are back from spending Thanksgiving with her family in northern New Jersey. Last Friday, they ventured into New York City to see a performance of “No Man’s Land.” This in from Lynnette Poe of the Syracuse Eagles Auxiliary. She noted, “We served a record 250 plus Thanksgiving dinners on Thursday! The turnout for this event was great!” 20 YEARS AGO, DEC. 3, 2003 Brent Bokhart of Syracuse was recently awarded an Indiana 4-H Congress scholarship at a luncheon held at the Westin Hotel in downtown Indianapolis. One of 30 scholarship recipients, Bokhart’s award was for achievement in the sheep category and was sponsored by the Indiana Sheep Association. Bokha-

rt has been active in 4-H through his membership in the Syracuse Community Hands 4-H Club and Kosciusko County Junior Leaders. His parents are Donald and Elaine Bokhart, Syracuse. Syracuse Community Center Program Director Robin Kaercher spent Thanksgiving in the warmth of her family. Her sister and brother-in-law, Debbie and Jay Germain, came to Robin’s home from Traverse City, Mich., with their daughter, Sally. They also met their son, Max, a student at the University of Michigan, at Robin’s. 30 YEARS AGO, DEC. 1, 1993 Dr. Larry D. Allen will be establishing his family practice of medicine at Syracuse Family Practice Inc., North Huntington Street, Syracuse, Dec. 16. Allen, his wife, Fran, and their daughter, Katie, will reside in the Syra-

cuse area. Allen graduated from Wawasee High School in 1976. Dan and Linda Stuckman, North Koher Road East, Syracuse, spent the Thanksgiving holiday in Nashville, Tenn. The Stuckmans left Thursday, Nov. 25, for the Opryland Hotel to attend clogging workshops and seminars. They returned home Sunday, Nov. 28. 40 YEARS AGO, DEC. 7, 1983 Michele Miller, r 5 Syracuse, is a member of the Indiana State University Chorale. Miss Miller is a freshman mathematics education major and sings in the soprano section of the Chorale. Everett Ketring, Syracuse, wants it made known that those who contributed corn this week for the ducks in the channel along South Huntington Street were Herbert Lane, Joe

Baumgartner and himself. Feeding the ducks during the winter has been a longtime interest of Ketring’s. 50 YEARS AGO, DEC. 5, 1973 Stan and Betty Scott of Syracuse recently returned from a Florida trip where they dropped in for a visit with the Louie Hares at Fort Myers Beach. Syracuse community’s Mrs. Dale (Margaret Christine) Davenport, known by many as Peggy, was quite enthused when telling of her November trip to California and a national Hall of Fame meeting. Director of the track and field hall of fame, she met many personalities during the convention, was guest at the Rams-Saints game, USC and Stanford football game, Chicago Blackhawks-L.A. Kings hockey event, horse races and given a grand tour of Los Angeles.

It happened in North Webster ... 20 years ago

Ice rescue sled given to fire department 10 YEARS AGO, DEC. 4, 2013 North Webster Elementary School is presenting two Christmas concerts the public is welcome to attend. The students will perform classic Christmas songs under the direction of Matt Pulley. Terri Ritter, public relations honcho at the North Webster Community Public Library, requested, “We’d appreciate an extra plug in your column for the Celtic music performance by the musical group Soltre that will take place during the Friends of the Library Book Sale Saturday in the North Webster Community Center Banquet Hall. North Webster native Sean Ellsworth- Hoffman performs with the group. Another worthwhile and fun event is the upcoming North Webster EMS Quarter Auction. Doors at the Tippecanoe Township Building open 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, with bidding beginning at 4 p.m. Tickets are cheaper in advance than at the door. Bring your quarters for an evening of fun.

20 YEARS AGO, DEC. 3, 2003 County commissioners gave approval for a 45-acre tract of land south of North Webster to be rezoned for commercial use. The decision, which was made at Tuesday’s meeting, was made with several stipulations. The owner, Bruce Cavell of Four Seas Resources, petitioned for the residential land, located east of SR13 on CR500N, to be rezoned for commercial use. An ice rescue sled, purchased by American Legion Post 253 and Tippecanoe Township, was recently given to the North Webster/Tippecanoe Township Fire Department. North Webster/Tippecanoe Township Volunteer Fire Department became one of the first volunteer fire departments in the state of Indiana to add an ice rescue sled to its water rescue division. A traditional Thanksgiving dinner was served to members of the North Webster Lady Lionesses, North Webster Lions Club and guests, Nov. 20, in North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Commu-

nity building. Steve Eddy, a warning coordinator meteorologist, from the Doppler weather station, was guest speaker 30 YEARS AGO, DEC. 1, 1993 Lakeland Kiwanis Club will ring the bell from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, to help the Salvation Army, and will be at Augsburger’s, and Plus Supermarket, North Webster, for Christmas donations. Laura Coverstone, vice president, opened the business session of the Backwater Friends Club meeting, and Marlene Charlton, president, presided. 40 YEARS AGO, DEC. 7, 1983 Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Mabie and Mr. and Mrs. Tom Willman attended the Bertsch Vending Co. Christmas party held Dec. 2 in the Shrine Building in Warsaw. Virginia Osburn is hostess for a Christmas Tea being held Dec. 7, for members of Esther Circle from North Webster United Methodist Church. Brenda Frush gave devotions when member of Rural Neighbors

met at her home Nov. 30. Mary Camden was assistant hostess. Mary Hall led as pledges to the America and Christian flags were repeated in unison. 50 YEARS AGO, DEC. 5, 1973 Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Hartley, North Webster, are the parents of a son born Nov. 29 at Whitley County Hospital. The baby has been named Rodney Vernon. The Hartleys have one other child, Casey Andrew, who is 15-months-old. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Haines, North Webster, are the maternal grandparents. Paternal grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Hartley, Leesburg. A carry-in Thanksgiving dinner was held recently at Barbee Conservation Club. Following officers were elected for 1974: Stacy Davis, president; Ivar Langdon, vice president; Clarabell Langdon, secretary; Orian Fortress, treasurer; and Irene Chalfant, reporter. Guests present were Mr. and Mrs. Carol Roehler, Miss Jamie Strombeck and Mr. and Mrs. Paul Thornburg. Mrs. Rex Lawson is in charge of the new program books.

CTB Inc. recognizes employee service milestones CTB Inc. has recognized those who achieved work milestones during the third quarter of 2023. The company congratulates the following employees for their recent anniversaries: 45 years of service — Robert Grotz 40 years of service —

Dennis Tucker 30 years of service — Oscar Fullmer, Robert Hopper, Angela Hostetler 25 years of service — Michael Bradshaw, Daniel Engle, Michael Fry, Lonnie Hughes, Gregory Yates 20 years of service — Awad

Adam, Andrew McCreery Sr., Todd Martin 15 years of service — Donald Hostetler, Enrique Lopez, Ramiro Mendoza, Michael Morris, Chad Musso 10 years of service — Nicholas Greif, Nathan Klotzbach, Daniel Peterson, Brahim Sal-

Public Notice

PUBLIC NOTICE Wawasee Kiwanis Club, P.O. Box 372, Syracuse, IN 46567, has applied to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Law Enforcement, Under IC 14-15-7-3 and 312 IAC 5-3-1, for a permit to conduct a snowmobile race. This event is scheduled to be held on January 27, 2024 on Syracuse Lake, in Kosciusko County. No alternate date. Any person objecting to such an event may do either or both of the following: (A) File a petition with the central office of the division requesting an informal hearing. The petition must be signed by at least twenty-five (25) individuals who are at least eighteen (18) years old and who reside in the county where the event will occur. A hearing under this clause is governed by 312 IAC 2-3. (B) Request the division notify the petitioner in writing when an initial determination is made to issue or deny the license. Following the receipt of notice under this clause, a petitioner may request administrative review of the determination under 312 IAC 3-1. hspaxlp

Kosciusko County Drainage Board Meetings 2024 The meetings will be held at 9AM January 25, 2024 Old Courtroom February 22, 2024 Old Courtroom March 28, 2024 Old Courtroom April 25, 2024 Old Courtroom May 23, 2024 Old Courtroom June 27, 2024 Old Courtroom July 25, 2024 Old Courtroom August 22, 2024 Old Courtroom September 26, 2024 Old Courtroom October 24, 2024 Old Courtroom November 21, 2024 Old Courtroom December 19, 2024 Old Courtroom hspaxlp

kanovic, Michael Strieby Five years of service — Isaac Brookshire, Mark Dodge, Daniel Etulain, David Finley, Marvin Fuqua, Jorge Guijosa, Jose Mayor, Michael Mettham, Thomas Radowski, John Stambaugh, Amber Stetzel-Fink, Banthsa Thonethevaboth, Jacob Wheatley “We are pleased to announce the work anniversaries that took place during the third quarter of 2023,” said Michael J. Kissane, CTB executive vice president and chief administrative officer. “Many of them have been with us for 25 years or longer, which makes us extremely proud. Despite the length of service, we’re thankful for everyone’s contributions to our company’s global mission of Helping to Feed a Hungry World.”

Around The Lakes

Wednesday, December 6, 2023 — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — www.the-papers.com

Leesburg to celebrate the holiday with annual Candelaria Dec. 9 By LAUREN ZEUGNER Staff Writer The town of Leesburg will be celebrating its annual Candelaria and Christmas party tradition from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, with Santa making a special appearance at 6 p.m. The town Christmas party will be held at the old firehouse, located next door to Leesburg Town Hall. Members of Leesburg 4-H Mighty Farmers and Boy Scout Troop 729 will be lighting the luminaria around 5 p.m. Leesburg will be lighting between 1,500 and 2,000 luminaria depending on the weather. Christina Archer, organizer of the event and Leesburg Town Council president, said, “If it’s a cold crisp night, we’ll put out all 2,000 (luminaria) ... Only once did we have to totally postpone the luminaria because it was incredibly bad weather.” Santa will be on hand at the old fire house to visit with the children and go over their wish lists. Everyone will be treated to hot chocolate and cookies. A group of Leesburg Elementary School students has expressed an interest in preforming at the town Christmas party. Details were still being worked out at press time. “That will be something new,” Archer said. She is hoping for good weather and a good turn out. “We always get a large turnout,” she said. Archer pointed out a large group of volunteers from Leesburg Methodist Church and other groups puts together the luminaria and make cookies. Archer said she appreciated the volunteer help and the support from local businesses. “It’s become a community event,” she said. Back in the 1980s, the Candelaria was put on by the Leesburg Merchants Association. Ar-

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LUMINARIA THROUGH TOWN — Shown is just a portion of luminaria which is put out for Leesburg’s Candelaria event. Between 1,500 to 2,000 luminaria are lit for the event. File photo.

ILFORD LION James Smiley is pictured at the gas station in Milford, serving as a bell ringer for the Salvation Army Red Kettle. Club members will be ringing bells to encourage everyone to give help to others this holiday season. —o—

GOING OVER THE LIST — A little girl goes over her Christmas list with Santa during last year’s Leesburg Candelaria event. This year, the Candelaria will be held from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at the old firehouse next door to the Leesburg Town Hall. File photo. cher, a Leesburg native, moved back to town in 2010 and asked about it. She was tasked with the job of bringing the Candelaria back. “The first year was pretty rough. It was pretty intense and brutally cold. It was 10 degrees,” she said. Over the years, Archer has seen an increase in help putting the event on.

“I see it as a big success that everyone looks forward to,” she said. “I hope now there’s a group that can keep it going when I can’t. We just invite everyone to come and enjoy it.” Children who come out to see Santa will receive a small treat bag. Archer said she feels it’s important for people to be involved in the community.

Tucker assumes role of Maple Leaf’s chief executive officer Maple Leaf Farms Inc. has announced that Scott Tucker has assumed the role of chief executive officer. Tucker was named incoming CEO in July 2023, succeeding now former CEO Scott Reinholt. Tucker brings nearly 40 years of experience to the role, having held leadership roles in the company’s sales and marketing and operations departments prior to being named co-president in 2001. As co-president, he directly oversaw the company’s operations, live production, finance and quality assurance and food safety functions. His work in these areas has provided him with a broad perspective of the company’s operations and an appreciation for the many business challenges facing the business. “Scott’s extensive experience

SCOTT TUCKER within our business will serve him well as he leads this fourth-generation family business into the next phase of growth,” said Re-

inholt. “He values our company’s unique culture and is committed to preserving it, while also pursuing innovative business strategies.” Tucker officially assumed the role of chief executive officer Friday, Dec. 1. As he ascends into the role, Tucker will continue engaging the company’s leadership team, sharing his insights, and assessing opportunities for future company growth. “I am humbled to officially step into the role as Maple Leaf Farms chief executive officer and lead our incredible team,” said Tucker. “The foundation Scott Reinholt has helped our family business establish is strong, and I am honored to have the opportunity to work with our leadership team to continue to build on this deep heritage.”

Church Why do we celebrate Christmas? By PASTOR JIM TORMEY St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church As we enter the Christmas season I wonder: Do we understand why we celebrate? When I grew up Christmas centered on community and church. Today it appears to center on stuff. No, really: buy this for presents buy this for the parties, and celebrations we are going to have. Oh sure, we drive past the Nativity scenes stuck between Rudolph and Frosty. And fill our homes with every decoration possible. Only to rush through the season to get to the new year and pay off all the spending we have done. So, what is it all about? Christmas not too long ago was so much simpler. I remember being excited to get an orange and Life Savers in my stocking. Simple things that brought me happiness have disappeared. I remember my mom making Christmas bread to share with the neighbors. Getting ready for the Christmas pageant at the church. By the way, a Christmas pageant was a reenactment of “the” original Christmas story.

PASTOR JIM TORMEY All of us children dressed in bathrobes and towels for turbans acting out the real reason. Waiting for our queue to either refuse Mary and Joseph a room or one of three kings coming to honor the newborn king. Simple yet profound. It played a huge part in my life. Today we spend our time searching for presents and playing Christmas music from Nov. 1 through Christmas Day. Don’t you desire the simplicity of this, the reality of all this? The only time we see this is when Ralphie beats up the bully and asks Santa for the Red Rider BB Gun.

We have opportunity, we have a chance, but we must look beyond ourselves. We must look to that manger just outside Jerusalem. Jesus came to earth on this night to save humanity. This is the truth that calls us to Christmas. Not the presents, not the trees, not the lights, and hearing the same Christmas song for the fiftieth time. It’s about the quiet of a small town and the birth of “the Savior.” Are you tired of the “hecticness” of Christmas? So am I! It is time to get the old story back again. Christmas pageants, giving neighbors loaves of bread, greeting one another with a smile, helping that young mother who has reached her final straw a helping hand at the store. Finding a family who can’t afford much for Christmas and giving them a turkey or ham, a bag of oranges, rolls of Life Savers, or a bag of Christmas candy. Going to church on Christmas Eve and remembering, that it’s not about the stuff, it’s about Jesus, the manger, the angels singing, the shepherds celebrating. Simple, quiet, joy-filled, not rushed, not hurried, calm and bright.

AN UGLY sweater party and holiday bazaar will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at North Webster Community Center. In addition to the ugly sweater contest, there will be face painting and over 50 vendors. Live music will be provided by Brenda and Spencer from noon to 2 p.m. —o— THE FRIENDS of the Syracuse Public Library coffee social will be from 10:30 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Dec. 13, in the upstairs seating area of the library. Come grab a cup of coffee and a couple of snacks to go, or stay and chat with Friends members. —o—

LIVING IN Transition Effectively, also known as L.I.T.E., has begun a teen support group in Milford. R.I.S.E., an acronym for Resilience, Inspiration, Support, Empowerment, provides a “safe space for everyone” ages 1319. The group began meeting on Dec. 3 at the Milford Methodist Meeting House, 210 W. Catherine St., and will continue to meet from 5:30-6:30 p.m. on Sundays. For further information about L.I.T.E. and its programming, including R.I.S.E., call (574) 306-0006 or email info@liteinkcj.org. —o— TOYS FOR Tots boxes to fill are now located at American Legion Post 253 in North Webster. People may bring new and unwrapped toys to Post 253 and drop them in the boxes before collection, which is Friday, Dec. 8. Donations will be used for families in the heart of the lakes community. —o— IN LAST week’s column, it was mentioned leaf pickup in Milford would soon be coming to an end. Superintendent Steven Marquart has now put a date on that service, and it is this Friday, Dec. 8. After then, leaves must be put in bags or boxes in order for them to be collected by the town. If you have questions, call Milford Town Hall at (574) 658-4519. —o— THE NEXT craft and sip event at Syracuse Public Library will be from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 14. The craft will be a winter scene salt shaker. Space is limited, so those interested need to preregister at the library or on the library’s online calendar, which can be accessed at syracuse.lib. in.us. —o— CRESTVIEW FARMS has partnered with Harvest Coffee Milford to provide Christmas meals to local families in need this season, and they would love for you to join them. They have added two opportunities to their website, crestview-farms.com, under the ‘Bundles’ tab. You can either purchase a cooked beef roast for $22 or an entire meal that will serve 6-8 people for $80. They will take care of cooking and making sure it gets to the right people. They ask purchases be made by Dec. 18, which will be distributed Dec. 23. —o— THE TOWN of Syracuse has announced Friday, Dec. 8, will be the last day for yard waste and brush pick up. Make sure you have these items by your curb (but not on the street) before the end of this week. —o— HERE IS a heartwarming story for the holidays. Part of the sidewalk got broken near Pilcher’s in North Webster and the chamber of commerce reached out to Thompson Concrete to get a quote to fix it.

This is a drive up event at 111 S. James, St., Milford, like what they had during COVID. The line will start on the south side of James Street at the stop sign facing the food bank. They ask that you do not block driveways and that you stay in your vehicle.

Each vehicle will be limited to one item per station, even if you have multiple families per vehicle. —o— LAST WEEKEND, a Syracuse Elementary family lost their home in a house fire. This is a family with five children. Leaders at the school are working on collecting items to help the family. Sizes include girl, 3T-4T; girl, 6-6x, size 1 shoes; boy, 10/12-14/16, size 6 shoes; boy, 10/12-14/16, size 6 shoes; girl 10/12-14/16; mom, large adult size. Gently used items are great. Cash donations will be accepted and used to purchase necessary items. If you are to help in any way, you can drop items off at the school and they will ensure the family gets them. If you have questions, contact Cindy Brady at cbrady@wawasee.k12.in.us. —o— THE TOWN of Milford has installed two new tornado sirens. One is located at Waubee Lake Park and the other at the water tower on CR 1250N. At approximately 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, the Milford Fire Department will be performing their first test, which should last for 10-20 seconds. It then will be tested monthly at 7 p.m. the first Thursday of each month. —o— WAWASEE HIGH School art students will be celebrating the grand opening of Chartreuse Talent, a WHS student gallery and showroom. An open house is scheduled for 4-6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, in the Career Technical Education Center at the school. A variety of student art work will be on display including a few panels that will be part of the public art installation students worked on for the new Parkview Warsaw Hospital. Additionally mosaic art works and ceramics will be on display and available for sale. Operational hours for the gallery were still being decided at press time. —o— COME SEE live animals from the North Pole from 7-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, inside the Milford Community Building, 111 S. Main St. Santa’s Elf and Red-Nose Ryan will introduce everyone to several animals that live at the North Pole. Best of all, Animals of the North Pole includes a real, live reindeer. Everyone will have a chance to take a photo with the reindeer so bring your phone or camera to snap a picture. This is a free show for the whole family, sponsored by the Milford Public Library for the whole family. No registration required. —o— THANK YOU to everyone who participated in The Mail-Journal’s annual Milford Christmas Giveaway. The contest concluded Nov. 30 with five lucky winners being drawn from the entries dropped off at the contest’s five sponsors. This years winners were: Ethan Anderson of New Paris, Paul Mitchell Products from Bobi’s Shear Success; Brian Blosser, Nappanee, two broasted chicken dinners from the Turf Bar; Brian Weideman, Milford, a $25 gift certificate from Harry’s Tap and Grill; JoAnn Ropp, Milford, a gift basket from the Milford Public Library; and Pat Boggs, Milford, a oneyear subscription to The Mail-Journal from The Papers Inc. Congratulations to all the winners. Look for the contest to return next November! —o—

Part of the reason why it broke is because the big trucks were driving on it to hang the Christmas lights on the tree and Thompson Concrete offered to do the backfill and the concrete for free as a gift back to the community so it didn’t cost anyone or the chamber anything to have this sidewalk chunk repaired. —o—

THE FESTIVAL of Trees is taking place at North Webster Community Center. It is sponsored by The Lakeland Kiwanis Club. Each tree is decorated by various organizations, such as this one decorated by the American Legion Post 253.

MILFORD FOOD Bank will be holding a Christmas food giveaway from 9 a.m. to noon (or until the food runs out) Saturday, Dec. 9.

The funds raised from Festival of Trees benefits Riley Hospital for Children. Be sure to vote for your favorite until Jan. 2.

Leesburg Candelaria

www.the-papers.com — THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wednesday, December 6, 2023

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