The Mail-Journal - December 7, 2022

Republicans choose Puckett for treasurer, Huffer for coroner

county government.

Republican precinct committee members on Thursday night, Dec. 1, filled two vacancies for Kosciusko County government that had been created by the Nov. 8 election.

In back-to-back caucuses Thursday night, Republicans chose outgoing county auditor Michelle Puckett as the new treasurer and Plain Township Trustee Tyler Huffer as the new county coroner.

The openings were created On Nov. 8 after Treasurer Rhonda Helser was elected county auditor and Coroner Tony Ciriello was elected to a seat on the county council.

Each of the caucus decisions came on the first round of voting as upward of 57 precinct committee members participated in the old Courtroom of the Kosciusko County Courthouse.

Puckett, whose office is adjacent to the treasurer’s office in the courthouse, is finishing her second term as auditor and was chosen over Diane Wulliman, a current employee of the treasurer’s office.

Huffer is finishing a four-year term as Plain township Trustee and lost his bid for re-election for that job in the May primary.

Both Puckett and Huffer will assume the office on Jan. 1, according to Kosciusko County Republican Chairman Mike Ragan.

Puckett, while addressing the caucus, pointed to her skills and 23 years of experience in

“As much as integrity and passion count, it means nothing without the knowledge and experience to step up to it when times get tough. It’s easy to walk away when it gets hard. I don’t walk away,” she said.

County Prosecutor Dan Hampton spoke in support of Puckett during the caucus and talked about of Puckett’s “inherent desire” to work with county colleagues, as well as her problem-solving skills and leadership.

Hampton added that all seven county council members were supporting Puckett.

Huffer topped Tracy Wilson, a 10-year deputy coroner, and Silver Lake Town Marshall Jason McGlennen, in the race for coroner.

Wilson lost despite apparent wide support within the coroner’s office and at least two funeral homes.

She spoke of her experience and pointed out that she’s the only candidate certified to do death investigations.

During his pitch to precinct committee members, Huffer pledged “to be in the trenches” and “not be a figurehead.”

He pointed to his work as a paramedic and as township trustee and the importance of providing care and compassion for those grieving over a death.

He’s employed with Titus Funeral Home and told the caucus that he would avoid directing business to the funeral home.

Milford finalizes sale of truck to City of Warsaw Wawasee Area Conservancy

holds annual tree lighting

Foundation turned out for its annual tree lighting Friday night, Dec.

2. The event was held at the Ruddell Pavilion at the Levinson-LaBrosse Lakes and Wetlands Education Center on SR 13 in Syracuse.

Board member Dr. Joan Szynal welcomed everyone and led the countdown to the tree lighting, resulting in a large conifer located just outside the pavilion glowing with white Christmas lights. Dr. David

Brandes, a former board member, explained he helped get the tree lighting party started by asking his wife, Susie Brandes, to do a painting of the pavilion with Christmas lights.

Susie Brandes, an accomplished artist, did the painting for her husband. It currently hangs in the education center of the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation.

After the painting was completed, David Brandes decided the WACF

needed to have a party to celebrate the holiday season and its accomplishments over the past year. Another board member donated the tree.

Those attending visited with one another while enjoying a variety of refreshments, including several board members’ “World Famous” chili and chicken and noodles. There was also a variety of homemade cookies and other treats.

Farber honored as KBOR Affiliate of the Year

with the 2022 KBOR Realtor of the Year.

Farber, Milford, was named the 2022 KBOR Affiliate of the Year. Gilsinger, Bourbon, was honored

Also honored were Susie Wert, Milford, and Liz Decker, association executive. Wert was recognized on her retirement from Fidelity National Title and the volunteer work she has done for KBOR on the golf committee and official photographer at every event. Decker was honored for her daily work ensuring the goals and objectives are

met, plans fulfilled and member needs met.

James Miller, 2021 Affiliate of the Year, provided information on this year’s winner. He noted two most important facts about Farber — she has been in the same field of business her entire life and she is in the same business as her parent.

Providing more information about Farber, Miller stated, “She Continued on page 2

Milford Town Council held a special session Monday, Dec. 5, to adopt a resolution for the transfer of a 2012 International 4300 truck to the City of Warsaw, which agreed to purchase the truck — and a number of related pieces of equipment — for $50,000.

In addition to the truck, the sale included a BOSS snow blade,

Monroe salt spreader, spare tire and tailgate.

According to Street, Water and Park Superintendent Steven Marquart, the two-seater 2012 truck became nearly obsolete after the purchase of a 2021 crew cab dump truck, which allows for more efficient workflow and is now being used for leaf pickup and spreading salt.

About 50 people representing staff, board members and volunteers of the Wawasee Area Conservancy

Brandi Farber and Anna Gilsinger were among four people honored Friday, Dec. 2, at the annual Kosciusko Board of Realtors Christmas Dinner.

Farber honored

grew up in Milford and as part of a racing community at New Paris Speedway.” Farber graduated from Wawasee High School in 2001 and attended IUSB, obtaining a teaching degree. She resides in Milford with her spouse and two children (Steve, Jake and Emma) and their family dog.

He provided a little humor in the presentation, by referring to the couple’s first date, that ended with them making an unexpected stop at a dentist. “This definitely helped decide if they survived that night, their relationship would never decay and they might win a little plaque.”

Farber was noted as serving on the board of New Beginnings Day Care, along with being active as a youth leader at Wawasee Community Bible Church.

“She is a workaholic and the most dedicated person you’ll ever meet. She truly cares about her customers and always goes above and beyond to help them in any way she can,” concluded Miller.

Farber gave her mother, Susie Wert, credit for teaching her everything she knew. “I appreciate all of you and love working with all of you.”

Gilsinger’s award was presented by Julie Hall, the 2021 Realtor of the Year. Hall noted the recipient had wonderful parents and a brother and three positive perfect children — Elsa, KitKat and Chloe – her cats who, when hearing about the award, noted they had to be “kitten me” and it was great “mews.”

Hall noted Gilsinger grew up in Pulaski and now lives in Bourbon. She graduated from Winamac High School and attended St. Mary’s College to get her undergraduate degree, before going to Notre Dame, where she graduated with a master of accountancy. She worked for a John Deere firm out of Shaumberg, Ill., and was a senior accountant for Whirlpool in Ben-

ton Harbor, Mich., and a CPA for GreenMark Equipment.

When Gilsinger became a Realtor in 2016, her true passion in life began — helping others in need. She established a special partnership with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and signed up to make a donation on behalf of her clients for every closed transaction. “The first year she pledged to donate all her commission to Children’s Miracle Network,” said Hall.

Her first donation was $20,000; by the end of the first year she donated $53,000 and was named the 2022 top Children’s Miracle Network Donor RE/MAX Agent nationwide.

“It takes that passion to another level,” Hall noted as a quote from another individual. She added Gilsinger was the top donor in the United States for Children’s Miracle Network of Hospitals. “It’s inspiring to so many to make a difference. KBOR is also very proud.”

Gilsinger stated she has to date donated more than $300,000 to the network. “It isn’t about me. It’s about getting the kids home so they can make a difference. They can chase their dreams.” She noted each person present had the “ability to go out and make that bit of a

difference. I encourage all of you. It takes a village to get things going.

Angie Jarrett, KBOR president, announced 150 Realtors, affiliates and guests attended the event.

There were 17 tables purchased by Realtors and affiliates, which provided $1,700 to go toward the association’s children’s charities. Those charities include scholarships, back-to-school backpacks and boots for scholars.

The annual gathering is a time for a celebration of Christmas and learning who received the Affiliate and Realtor of the Year awards.

In addition to announcing the recipients, fun was had by participants bidding on 17 mystery themed silent auction items. Some of the titles for the mystery auction items were “Picture Perfect,” “Cowboy Christmas,” “Brr It’s Cold Outside,” “Baking With Your Dog,” “The Best of Kosciusko,” “Don’t Get Stuck on Me,” and “For the Knotting and the Nice.”

Funds raised through the silent auction also went to the associations children’s charities.

The annual event was held at Tippecanoe Country Club.

Turkey Creek Conservancy to meet Wednesday

Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District Board of Directors will meet at 3 p.m. Wednesday Dec. 7, at Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation Office, 11586 SR 13, Syracuse.

The purpose of the meeting is for the district’s governing board to receive and potentially tentatively approve the plans, drawings, specifications and cost estimates from its engineer for the Hawaiian Village dike project and the referral of the project to the Natural Resource Commission for review and approval.

Additionally, the governing board will consider any and all matters properly brought to their attention.

Applications available for Indiana Senate Page Program

Indiana Senate is now accepting applications for the 2023 Senate Page Program, said State Sen. Ryan Mishler.

Through the full-day program, students in grades six through 12 tour Indiana’s Statehouse, listen to debates and help staff with age-appropriate tasks. Students also have the opportunity to meet their state senator.

“I always enjoy welcoming students to the statehouse to participate in the Senate Page Program,” Mishler said. “The program allows young people to gain an understanding of how the legislative process works and I recommend eli-

gible students in Senate District 9 come down and get involved in their state government.”

The Senate Page Program will begin in January and run through early April. Positions fill quickly, so it is important to apply early. Pages are scheduled for Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays during the legislative session.

They begin their day at 8:30 a.m. and are dismissed at 3:30 p.m. Groups serve together on Wednesdays. Serving as a page is considered an excused absence from school.

For more information or to apply, visit www.IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/page-program.

Obituaries

Insurance Agent

William Russell Harris, 82, Syracuse, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Connie Kay Anderson Harris; son, Matthew J. Harris of Marion; daughter, Holly Harris Tuttle (Thomas) of Syracuse; grandchildren, A. Brooke Williams (Andrew) of Salt Lake City, Lauren N. Tait of Fort Wayne and Landess F. Harris of Miami; and great-grandchild, Mason Rose Williams of Salt Lake City.

He was born in Marion to parents, Landess Leon Harris and Jean Ruth Harris, on March 7, 1940.

William, W.R. or Bill to most, was a man who preferred to start dinner with dessert (carrot cake), so in that same fashion, we will begin with the sweetest parts of his life.

Everyone who had the pleasure of meeting Bill felt his big heart and giving nature. Much like his favorite color yellow, he spread warmth and positivity into the lives of us all, while simultaneously making it known that he never expected anything in return because of his Godly nature.

Born and raised in Marion, Bill grew up in a loving home and community. He could be found with his brothers, Jim and Rick Harris, on the baseball field next to their home or becoming a die-hard Marion Giants fan alongside the 58ers and VV’s. The depth of the Marion Giants community not only embedded community service into his blood, but it also took him to Indiana University, where he earned his business degree and played tennis.

After graduating, much like his memorable American twister tennis serve, strong; Bill went into the insurance business (Quigley Insurance Agency), which ignited his passion for business. There he won many outstanding awards for excellence, top sales and agency of the year. In 1985, he became the president of the Independent Insurance Agents of Indiana.

His work ethic, second to none, took him and his family all over the world. Bill and Connie alike, always made it a point to bring their memories and many mementos back home to share with loved ones.

Bill never truly retired. Work was his passion and ultimate love language that kept him going up until the day he passed. He was writing daily thoughts and ideas on his yellow tablet, which he would share with anyone who crossed his path.

Bill’s ultimate place to spend time was at Lake Wawasee with Connie, his one true love (they met in sixth grade). He enjoyed boating, golfing and rocking in his chair, lake-side, while watching the boats go by and his grass grow. He also could be caught playing gin rummy with lifelong friends and frequently John Anderson, Connie’s brother. Home also meant driving down lake roads in his classic cars with cherished friends, turning miles into memories.

Bill’s genuine and innate nature to love home, friends, family and business allowed him to passionately help build communities and make countless anonymous contributions. He was a longtime member of the Meshingomesia Country Club, Tippecanoe Lake Country Club, Mecca Club, Aero Club, Marion Exchange Club, Marion Jaycees and a lifelong member of the Marion United Methodist Church.

The love for his grandchildren was at the highest level. He once said, “If I knew how fun they would be, I would have had them first.” They were met each morning with a request to “Put it here” as he tapped his cheek, lovingly requesting a kiss. His great-granddaughter was greeted in person or on Facetime with him singing “Hello Mason” to the tune of “Hello Dolly,” a memory always to be remembered.

Bill was a man of few words but had the power to leave an impact. His antics were legendary, and those who knew him have their own stories to tell. He said what he meant and meant what he said. When Bill wanted the conversation to end, it was over. And even until his earthly life ended, he still had the last say. “Just remember what a wonderful life you have had and how lucky we are. I want you to look forward to your life ahead and all the good times we’ve shared.”

There will be a celebration of life in the summer of 2023. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation, P.O. Box 548, Syracuse, IN 46567.

Please visit www.titusfuneralhome.com to share a personal memory of Bill.

Kenneth Herman, 58, Bonita Springs, Fla., formerly of Syracuse, died Sunday, Dec. 4, 2022.

Arrangements are currently pending at Owen Family Funeral Home, Syracuse.

Edwin Lee Gooding

Edwin Lee Gooding, known to most as “Ed,” passed away quietly at home Monday, Dec. 5, 2022, just after 7 a.m.

Born in Muncie on June 3, 1934, he was the son of Virgil and Reba (Coulter) Gooding. He spent his formative years there, graduating from Muncie Central High School in 1952. He retired with 31 years of service from General Motors in Marion where he was a pattern maker.

More personally, Ed was a hard worker and very handy; he always had a project to work on and was the neighborhood “Mr. Fix It.” He loved his family and time spent with his Dewart Lake neighbors. He was a member of the Moose Lodge in Marion and the American Legion in Syracuse. He was an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Naval Reserve.

United in marriage to Jeanne (Baker) Gooding on Jan. 21, 1983, Ed and Jeanne spent more than 37 years together before her passing in November 2020. The pair shared more than 20 years wintering in Hawaii. They shared a love for the outdoors, family and for animals, especially their dog, Cody.

Those who survive with memories to cherish include three daughters, Linda (Randy) Stahly of Cromwell, Becky (Denny) Smith of Fairmount and Sandy Elofson of Amboy; stepdaughter, Mindy (Bruce) Bowman of Westfield; 10 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and a great-great-grandson. In addition, he is lovingly survived by four siblings, John Gooding, Caroyln Harrell, Jay (Gloria) Gooding and Jerry Gooding.

He was preceded in passing by his wife; parents; and two siblings, Jack Gooding and Marcia Jackson.

Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services is entrusted with Ed’s arrangements. Services will be held Monday, Dec. 12, at Owen Family Funeral Home, 1001 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. The funeral service will begin at 1 p.m. and friends may gather for two hours prior.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts are appreciated to Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County, P.O. Box 1906, Warsaw, IN 46581 or an animal shelter of your choice.

Written condolences may be left at www.titusfuneralhome.com.

Commissioners hear about First Responders’ Appreciation Initiative

An effort is ongoing in Kosciusko County to support first responders.

At their meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 6, the Kosciusko County Commissioners heard about the Live Well Kosciusko initiative, K-County First, from Live Well President and CEO Lisa Harman and former Kosciusko Leadership Academy cadet Lois Borkholder. It was previously presented at the Warsaw Board of Public Works and Safety meeting on Friday, Dec. 2.

“I represent the Community Well-being Committee at Live Well Kosciusko,” said Harman. “That committee wanted to make sure that our first responders felt like they were appreciated and so we started working on (a) … campaign.

“And as part of that campaign, we had local students here in the county start making art projects that were thank you cards showing how much they appreciated law enforcement, firefighters, EMTs … all of those people who work as first responders and so we have now created billboards across the community so you may see those that depict the students’ artwork that shows the appreciation messages,” she continued.

“We also have a webpage that includes the artwork, so that anyone who wants to take a look at the artwork can do that just through accessing a QR code that takes you directly to the webpage,” Harman said. The page may be found at livewellkosciusko.org/kcountyfirst.

People also may create their own thank you videos by visiting the webpage.

Harman noted one local first responder had said that “they had been working in the community for 25 years and (during that time) had never received a thank you for what they did.”

KLA was also involved with K-County First, helping create a discount program as part of it, which Borkholder presented on Tuesday. First responders will be getting cards to get a discount at a number of local retailers who’ve agreed to participate. Businesses can learn how to join the program by visiting the above webpage.

Posters on the program are going to fire departments and police departments around the county, added Harman.

KCCRVC: Matt Metzger

KEDCo: Brad Jackson

MACOG: Cary Groninger

MREDD: Doug Hanes and Rob Parker

OrthoWorx: Brad Jackson

PTABOA: Susie Stookey and Phyllis Olinger

Redevelopment Commission: Dan Thystrup, Mike Metzger and Doug Hanes

St. Joseph River Basin: Jon Roberts

Strategic Planning Committee: Brad Jackson and Marsha McSherry

Wage Committee: Brad Jackson Department Head Appointments

County Administrator: Marsha McSherry

County Attorney: Ed Ormsby

GIS: Bill Holder

County Highway Superintendent: Steve Moriarty

Homeland Security/LEPC: Ed Rock

HR Director: Cathy Reed

System Administrator: Bob Momeyer

Veteran Service Officer: Darryl McDowell

Weights & Measures: Rob Barker

Miscellaneous Recommendations For Appointments

Bell Memorial Public Library Board: Larry Yeiter Board of Health: Dennis Woodward and Thomas Howard

Public Defender Board: Alan Alderfer and Steve Harris

In other business, the commissioners:

• Approved a memorandum of understanding with the City of Warsaw through which Warsaw will pay $500,000 to the county related to the county’s new public safety towers communication system. The Warsaw City Council already considered the measure at its meeting on Monday, Dec. 5, recommending its approval to the Warsaw Board of Public Works and Safety, who has the final say.

• Heard the quarterly Kosciusko Area Bus Service report from Marcie Arndt who’s filling in as interim general manager as the last GM, Chad Kaltenbach, has left.

• Approved a contract for construction inspection related to an upcoming bridge reconstruction project along Husky Trail in Warsaw.

Kids of all ages turn out for Breakfast with Santa

This time of year Santa is very busy visiting local communities to check in with children to see what they would like for Christmas and to double check his naughty and nice list. He stopped by the Syracuse Community Center, Saturday, Dec. 3, to have breakfast with local children.

After a breakfast of pancakes and sausage, children could visit with Santa, enjoy cookies made by Boy

Scouts from Troop 728 and make a craft in Celebration Hall of the community center. They also stopped by the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum and either picked up a packet of reindeer food or made their own to take home.

This community event has been held for more than 30 years. It was first held at Lakeland Youth Center and then moved to the community center in 2002. The event brings together the Syracuse Parks and Recreation Department, Wawasee Kiwanis Club, the Knights of Columbus and Lakeland Youth Center.

Board Appointments

Commissioners also made their annual appointments for 2023.

Those include the following.

Alcohol Beverage Commission: Alan Alderfer

Arrowhead RC&D: Stanley Moore

Board of Zoning Appeals: Ron Robinson, Kevin McSherry and Lee Harman

Bowen Center Board: Jon Garber

Community Corrections Advisory Board: Jim Smith

Drainage Board: Joe Irwin and Cary Groninger

Emergency Management Advisory Board: Cary Groninger

• Approved a request brought by Kosciusko County Highway Department Superintendent Steve Moriarty to purchase a skid loader from Bobcat of Warsaw out of budgeted funds at a cost of $78,958.94.

The council’s next meeting is 9 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 20, at the Kosciusko County Courthouse’s Old Courtroom.

William Russell Harris

Retired From General Motors

Kenneth Herman

Accidents/Incidents

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

Accidents

6:38 a.m. Friday, Dec. 2, North Syracuse Webster Road, near East CR 950N, Syracuse. Driver: Ronald D. Krill, 48, East Epworth Forest Road, North Webster. Krill was traveling north on Syracuse Webster Road when a deer entered the roadway. Damage up to $5,000.

12:26 a.m. Friday, Dec. 2, on CR 1350N, 300 feet west of CR 400W near Milford. Driver: Courtney Hochstetler, 27, Raggedy Ann Road, Cromwell. Driver swerved to miss a deer and left the roadway. Damage up to $5,000.

Incidents

4:34 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4, 8900 block of East Black Point Road, Syracuse. Eggs were stolen from Dollar General. Value of $4.70.

9:37 a.m. Friday, Dec. 2, 300 block of East CR 1150N, Milford. A firearm was stolen. Value of $150.

8:12 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 30, 7400 block North Blacks Court East, North Webster. Officers investigated a report of domestic battery resulting in moderate bodily injury.

2:35 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 29, 100 block West School Street, Leesburg. Representatives for Leesburg Lions Club reported criminal mischief to a building.

Milford

Officers with the Milford Police Department investigated the following accidents and incident: Accidents 8:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, North SR 15 and West CR 1350N, Milford. Drivers: Kaylene N. Miller, 31, Main Street, Leesburg; and unknown driver. Miller turned south on SR 15 from CR 1350 North and was passed by another southbound vehicle. The unknown driver swiped the side of Miller’s vehicle and did not stop.

2:46 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, South Main Street and West Emeline Street, Milford. Drivers: Lani K. Marshall, 65, North Main Street, Milford; and Maria G. Parra Solis, 51, South East Street, Milford. Marshall did not see Solis, causing their vehicles to collide as Solis was crossing the intersection.

Damage up to $10,000. 12:01 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 10, North CR 1350W and North SR 15, Milford. Drivers: Dillon R. Estepp, 22, Brubaker Street, Warsaw; and Emerson R. Mast, 23, CR 7, Nappanee. Estepp struck the back of Mast’s vehicle as they were both stopped at the intersection. Damage up to $10,000.

4:47 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5, 100 block North Main Street, Milford. Driver: Johnny T. Jones, 56, Fourth Street, Milford. Jones struck a tree with his vehicle. Damage up to $10,000.

2:59 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 2, 100 block South Main Street, Milford. Drivers: Lisa Lerner Llewellyn, 60, North Grove Road, Milford; and unknown driver. Llewellyn was traveling east on CR 1150 in the area of Waubee Road when a vehicle sideswiped her vehicle in an attempt to pass. The other driver did not stop.

Incident

2:28 p.m. Friday, Nov. 4, 100 block Main Street, Milford. Blanca Garcia Jimenez, 35, Milford, reported her purse containing multiple forms of identification and $45 cash as stolen.

North Webster

Officers with the North Webster Police Department investigated the following accidents and incidents:

Accidents

3:34 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, in the 7000 block of SR 13, North Webster. Drivers: Gregory Hamman, 68, Armstrong Road, Leesburg; Michael Marsillett, 25, Austin Drive, Warsaw. Vehicles collided when one was pulling onto SR 13. Damages up to $1,000.

7:39 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 30, North SR 13, near George Street, North Webster. Drivers: Jeff A. Courtney, 51, South SR 13, Pierceton; and Keith A. Gunkel, 45, West Crystal Flash Road, North Webster. Courtney’s vehicle rear-ended Gunkel’s. Courtney complained of chest pain and Gunkel complained of back pain. Damage up to $25,000.

Incidents

12:04 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, 9600 block East CR 600N, North Webster. Roderick E. Mayo reported fraud. Value: $2,000.

11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 30, 800 block South Main Street, North Webster. Indira L. Smoth-

Shane Smith sentenced to 211 months for child pornography

Shane Smith, 35, Milford, was recently sentenced by United States District Court Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. on his plea of guilty to production of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Smith was sentenced to 211 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, Smith created fake social media accounts to befriend minors and persuade them to produce pornography to send him. The investigation revealed Smith also possessed more than 1,700 images and

more than 950 videos of child pornography on his electronic devices.

This case was investigated by the FBI and the Indiana State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John M. Maciejczyk.

The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims.

For more information, visit projectsafechildhood.gov.

ers reported criminal mischief to a vehicle.

Syracuse

Officers with the Syracuse Police Department investigated the following incidents: Incidents

6:52 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4, 5000 block East Creekside Trail, Syracuse. Individual attempted suicide.

1:44 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4, 200 block East Greenhaus Drive, Syracuse. Tisha Sian Bame reported that some of her laundry was stolen out of the apartment complex washing machine. Estimated losses up to $700.

4:23 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, 700 block North Dolan Drive, Syracuse. Cody Juarez Sanford threw a rock, breaking the back window of Jose A. Cervantes Pizana’s vehicle.

12:46 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, 700 block South Huntington Street, Syracuse. Bambi Jo Wood, Dollar General manager, reported the theft of two items and attempted use of a counterfeit $20 bill.

Jail Bookings

Kosciusko County

The following people were booked in Kosciusko County Jail: Dec. 5 — Richard Wayne Martin, 51, 29 EMS D21A Lane, Syracuse, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated with a BAC of 0.15 or more and operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Bond: $700 cash.

Dec. 4 — James Paul Grothaus, 28, 9523 E. Pixie Parkway, Cromwell, booked for failure to pay. Bond: $500 cash. Dec. 2 — Coley Alexander Mayerksy, 36, 6594 N. 2nd Trail, North Webster, domestic battery – simple assault and strangulation. Bond: $5,250 surety cash. Nov. 29 — Jessica Marie Watson, 31, 9878 N. Skyline Drive, Syracuse, booked for felony failure to appear, false informing and misdemeanor failure to appear. Bond: $600 cash.

Noble County

The following people were booked in Noble County Jail: Nov. 30 — Stephanie R. Jones, 50, 2830 N. 1000W, Cromwell, booked on a warrant. Bond: $1,500.

Nov. 26 — Jeffrey H. Gaerte, 55, 16815 US 6, Syracuse, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated-prior conviction. Bond: $2,500.

Eppert receives six-year sentence after dealing drugs

diana Department of Corrections.

A Syracuse man will serve six years in prison after dealing drugs in an undercover drug bust.

David Michael Eppert, 44, 612 W. Boston St., Syracuse, was charged with dealing methamphetamine, a level 3 felony. Two additional criminal charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Eppert was sentenced in Kosciusko Circuit Court Monday, Dec. 5.

For dealing methamphetamine, Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed sentenced Eppert to six years in the In-

He has 141 days of jail time credit in the case and must pay $325 in restitution to the Warsaw Police Department.

Reed recommended Eppert for placement in the Recovery While Incarcerated program during his sentence.

On Oct. 16, 2018, Warsaw’s Drug Task Force purchased 14.4 grams of methamphetamine from Eppert. The purchase was

captured via audio and video surveillance.

The case was initially scheduled for sentencing in November 2019, but Eppert failed to appear at that time. A warrant for his arrest was served in July 2022.

At sentencing, Defense Attorney Jay Rigdon said Eppert has the intelligence to be successful and asked the court to take into consideration positive efforts Eppert has made in improving himself.

“I made bad choices, and I’m ready to get this behind me,” said Eppert.

“With the circumstances, you’ve left me with no alternative,” said Reed.

Neace arrested after battering two women in Leesburg

A South Bend man was recently arrested after allegedly battering two women in Leesburg.

Cory Michael Neace, 24, South Bend, is charged with strangulation and domestic battery with a prior conviction enhancement, both level 6 felonies; and domestic battery and battery, both class A misdemeanors.

On July 4, a Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office deputy went to a Leesburg residence regarding a domestic battery report. The deputy spoke with a man who witnessed the battery, and two women who said they were battered by Neace.

According to court documents,

Neace left the scene prior to the deputy’s arrival. The women said they and Neace had a verbal argument which turned physical. Neace allegedly shoved one of the women and pushed the other woman against a door while placing his hand on her neck, applying pressure. Neace also used a dog leash to hit the woman he shoved.

As the altercation continued, Neace wrapped his arm around one of the women’s necks and placed his hand over her mouth. Shortly after, a man arrived at the scene, and Neace left.

The man who witnessed the battery said he heard a loud noise coming from the residence and went to investigate. He saw Neace holding his arm around one of the women’s necks.

Neace was previously convicted of domestic battery in St. Joseph County in October 2020.

For this case, Neace was booked in the Kosciusko County Jail Nov. 30, with a $6,000 surety and cash bond.

Smith arrested after domestic incident

A Syracuse woman was arrested after allegedly battering a man while in possession of a knife.

Robin Michelle Smith, 38, 13509 N. Warner Road, Syracuse, is charged with domestic battery with a deadly weapon, a level 5 felony; and domestic battery, a class A misdemeanor.

On Nov. 25, a Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office deputy responded to a domestic dispute. A man said he had a verbal argument with Smith, which turned physical when Smith began shoving him in the chest.

Court News

Small Claims

Elkhart County

The following small claim has been awarded in Elkhart County Superior Court IV: Michiana Physical Medicine v. Cayla Porter, Milford, $1,629.34

Marriage Licenses

Kosciusko County

The following couples have applied for a marriage license in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court Ann Torpy: Gibson-Sanders Michael J. Gibson, 49, Syracuse, and Shana Sanders, 44, Syracuse Roberts-Street Danny L. Roberts Jr., 30, Mil-

ford, and Hannah L. Street, 29, Milford

Marriage Dissolutions

Kosciusko County

The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in the Kosciusko Superior and Circuit Courts: Bartman — James L. Bartman, Milford, and April Bartman, Milford. Married: May 1, 2021. Separated: Oct. 27, 2022. There are no minor children. Dillon-Wiggs — Jamie Dillon, Warsaw, and Christopher Wiggs, Syracuse. Married: Oct. 16, 2021. Separated: Nov. 25, 2022. There are no minor children.

According to court documents, as the argument escalated, Smith approached the man while holding a large kitchen knife. He told Smith to put the knife down several times, but she continued to approach him. The man grabbed

Smith’s arm, knocked the knife away, and physically wrestled with her to keep her from retrieving the weapon.

The deputy noticed the man had bite marks on his right forearm, and lacerations to his right hand, right shoulder, neck area and right ear. When asked about an abrasion on his right shoulder, the man said Smith hit him with a pipe.

A witness said he saw Smith shove the man and wield a knife. During her initial conversation with law enforcement, Smith said the argument was completely verbal and that a physical altercation did not occur. Upon being confronted with evidence of a knife being used, Smith admitted to walking toward the man while holding a knife. Smith has prior convictions for methamphetamine possession, theft and forgery.

For this case, Smith has already been arrested and released on bond. She had an initial hearing at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 5, in Kosciusko Superior Court One.

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Elkhart County

The following couple has filed for a marriage dissolution in Elkhart Superior Court III: Stanley — William Stanley, Goshen, and Eva Stanley, North Webster. With child (ren).

Warrior boys basketball team battles in two nail biters

ter. Ziebarth was aggressively driving to the basket and continually knocking down critical free throws.

The Wawasee Warrior boys basketball team battled the West Noble Chargers Saturday, Dec. 3, at The Hardwood Teepee. The game was physical from the start, with a combined 15 fouls in the first 10 minutes of play.

The Chargers jumped out to a 16-10 lead at the end of the first quarter. Wawasee sophomore guard Maddux Everingham was on fire throughout the first two quarters, scoring 11 of his team’s 24 points. Everingham knocked down a three-pointer with 2:19 remaining in the second quarter, giving the Warriors a 20-19 advantage. The Warrior defense clamped down in the second quarter, holding West Noble to only eight points. With just under a minute remaining in the second quarter, Wawasee senior center Collin Roberson made a strong move down low to tie the game, 24-24, at halftime.

Wawasee junior forward Collin Ziebarth opened up the scoring in the third quarter with a driving lay up, putting the Warriors ahead, 26-24. Maddux Everingham nailed another three, giving the Warriors a 31-26 lead with just under six minutes left in the third quarter. West Noble senior guard Derek Slone answered with a three, closing the gap to 32-31 with 3:53 left in the quar-

The Warriors led 40-38 entering the fourth quarter. The two teams continued to trade baskets.

Maddux Everingham hit a three from the top of the key, putting the Warriors up 43-41 with 3:30 left. The game was tied, 47-47, with under a minute left in regulation. West Noble senior forward Nevin Phares missed a gamewinning shot from the top of the key at the buzzer, sending the game to overtime.

The Warriors couldn’t quite finish things off and were outscored 12-4 in overtime, ultimately losing 59-51.

Maddux Everingham led all scorers with 19 points. Ziebarth chipped in 18 points, finishing 16 out of 18 from the free throw line. Roberson had six rebounds. Ziebarth had five rebounds and three assists.

The team traveled to North Manchester Friday, Dec. 2, to take on the Manchester Squires. The Squires opened the game on fire, outscoring the Warriors 20-7 at the end of the first quarter.

Wawasee really tightened up their defense in the second quarter, outscoring Manchester 19-8 and were only down 28-26 at halftime. The Squires were six out of 13 from three-point range throughout the first two quarters. The two teams were dead even,

trading baskets throughout the third and fourth quarters. The Squires cooled off from threepoint range, making only one three-pointer in the second half. There were 11 lead changes and nine ties throughout the game. In the end, Manchester just scraped by the Warriors, winning 57-55.

Ziebarth led all scorers with 19 points. Myles and Maddux Ever-

ingham each scored 13 points. Roberson added eight points.

Ziebarth, Roberson, and junior forward Carson Smith were men on the boards, each pulling down seven rebounds. Myles Everingham actively got his teammates involved, dishing out four assists. Smith contributed three assists.

Next game: 7:45 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, at home versus Whitko.

Warrior wrestling team finishes fourth at Warsaw Invitational

Zimmerman continued to build on his impressive resume, going undefeated at 182.

The Warrior boys varsity wrestling team finished in fourth place Saturday, Dec. 3, at the Warsaw Invitational.

The team lost a very hardfought battle to Elkhart, 38-32. The Warriors then bounced back with victories over Northrop, 7112; Purdue Polytech, 66-15; and Concordia, 65-12.

Kaleb Salazar was undefeated on the day in the 106-pound weight class. Hunter Miller grappled his way to multiple victories, remaining undefeated on the day at 152. Gavin Malone fought hard, defeating every challenger at 170. Cameron

The boys junior varsity defeated Penn, 49-27.

The Warrior boys varsity wrestling team defeated East Noble, 42-36, Thursday, Dec. 1, at the Hardwood Teepee.

Varsity winners included Titus Taylor, Logan Stuckman, Ethan Rodriguez, Hunter Miller, Gavin Malone, Cameron Zimmerman, Donovan Blair and Eleazar Vazquez. The girls wrestling winners were Ciarra Rodriguez, Brooke Catron and Kenidi Nine.

The Warrior boys junior varsity winners were Dalton Yoder, Zeke Ihnen and Alex Dibble.

The Lady Warrior varsity basketball team was defeated 65-37 at Northridge Tuesday, Dec. 6.

The team fought hard against a good Northridge team. The Lady Warriors traded baskets with the Lady Raiders and were tied 11-11 after one quarter.

The Lady Raider defense clamped down and their offense geared up as they outscored the Lady Warriors 22-12 in the second quarter to take a 10-point lead into halftime, 33-23.

The Lady Warriors continued to put up a fight throughout the second half, but just couldn’t quite gain enough momentum to get back in the game.

Junior guard Kaydence Shepherd led the Lady Warriors with 14 points and sophomore guard

The Lady Warriors turned in a dominating performance, winning 44-16 against Elkhart Christian Academy Thursday, Dec. 1, at Elkhart Christian.

The team jumped out to a 14-2 lead at the end of the first quarter behind strong defense and a balanced scoring attack.

The Lady Warrior defense continued to really tighten up throughout the second quarter as they took a 24-4 lead into the locker room during the halftime break.

The team increased their lead to 36-9 after three quarters of play and outscored their opponent 20-12 in the third and fourth quarters.

Hackleman led the Lady Warriors with 14 points.

Next game: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9, at home versus Goshen.

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I woke up on Thanksgiving morning with a sore throat and was so hoarse I couldn’t talk. Needless to say, I missed Thanksgiving this year but the good news is I recovered pretty quickly, and I was able to get back to work in a week.

Here’s a question for you. Did you know the senior center is the caretaker of a very large archive of Kosciusko County sports from the 1950s and 1960s? We have scrapbooks full of all sports, basketball, track and field, baseball, including who played whom,

where they played, who won and their scores.

Did you know that in 1953 North Webster had 28 straight wins, went to the state semifinals, and South Bend Central broke our winning streak and went on to win state? You are welcome to come into center and check out the scrapbooks; we open at 9 a.m.

We will be having our Christmas luncheon at 11:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 16. We will be serving bone-in ham with all the fixings. Call me at (574) 834-1600, ext. 224, or Merita at (574) 834-1193 to reserve a meal.

That about does it for this week; stay warm and healthy.

Roundup

Basketball

JV boys basketball — Dec. 2 lost to Manchester, 55-29; Dec. 3 defeated West Noble, 5328. Next game: 6:15 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, at home versus Whitko.

Freshman boys basketball — Dec. 1 defeated Central Noble, 30-25. “Tonight was a battle,” said coach Andrew Wilson. “Our team played tough against a scrappy Central Noble team that played very hard. We took a lead into the fourth quarter before they hit a 3-pointer with 10 seconds left in regulation. We out-

scored them 7-2 in the overtime behind good free-throw shooting and stiff defense. I’m very proud of my entire team tonight.” Next game: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, at home versus Goshen.

JV girls basketball — Dec. 1 defeated Elkhart Christian, 36-9. Ava Couture led the team with 12 points and Taelyn Tom scored 9 points. Dec. 6 lost to Northridge, 56-20. Ava Couture scored 6 points and Kylie Perkins added 5 points.

Next game: 6:15 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9, at home versus Goshen.

Lady Warrior basketball team loses to Northridge, dominates Elkhart Christian Academy

Mackenzie Hackleman added eight points.

Diana Wooley lends a helping hand

Diana Wooley, a longtime resident of Syracuse, is very in touch with the world.

On a small-scale community level and a global level, Wooley wants to get involved. She has numerous trips under her belt, a trip to New Zealand being one of the most notable, as she has always had a passion for the outdoors and exploration.

She has also always had a passion for helping people; it’s why she went to Vincennes University and Ball State University to study special education.

For the past seven years, she has put this passion into action with elderly community mem-

bers throughout Kosciusko County. She created her own business, Helping Hands, and has since been cleaning for them, organizing, doing yardwork, taking them to appointments, outings and shopping, helping care for pets and many other things to aid them.

Since she is not in the medical field, she has chosen to dedicate her life to caretaking in the other ways that she can. She noted that especially since the pandemic has begun, many people have struggled with their mental health, which makes

a lot of tasks she helps with hard for someone to do on their own.

PROFILE

“I usually account for an extra hour with them so we have time to talk, or I can just listen,” Wooley said. “Sometimes they just want someone to talk to and they’ve lived long lives, so there’s a lot to say.” She finds her clients to be very wise and enjoys talking with them or listening to them.

She also finds it rewarding to be able to relieve families of their caretaking responsibilities,

even if it is just for a short time.

When she was growing up, Wooley got to know an elderly woman who lived across the street from her. The woman was once a teacher and loved to read, but had lost her eyesight. Wooley began reading to her, which she realized looking back now, was the start of her desire to help the elderly. “Ever since then I’ve done pretty much anything to get a smile, anything to help,” Wooley said.

Wooley has a zest for life and sense of adventure, which is something she shares with the people she helps, even if it is just through a quick trip to a local store. She encourages anyone who needs a bit of help to contact her at (574) 3250189.

Mobile Meals drivers

Friends of the Library coffee open house Dec. 14

The Friends of the Syracuse Library will host a special Christmas coffee at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 14, open to the community. The event is free.

Brew City will provide the coffee and Friends will provide Christmas cookies. The special guest of the morning will be Michelle Parker, young adult librarian. She will share details of the teen art contest, open to all young adults from grades 6-12.

The theme of the contest is “All Together Now” and prizes will be given to winners in three categories: sixth to eighth grade; ninth to 10th grade; and 11th to 12th

Bridge Results

Alcohol permits approved

The following permits with no violations were approved for renewals:

The Kosciusko County Alcohol and Tobacco Commission approved renewal of two local permits at its Dec. 1 meeting.

American Legion Post No. 223, 1008 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. Beer, wine and liquor — fraternal club. DDK Enterprise LLC, doing

business as The Turf, 118 S. Main St., Milford. Beer, wine and liquor — restaurant.

The local ATC’s next meeting will be held at the Kosciusko County Courthouse at 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 5.

North Webster Bridge Group

grade. Winners in each age range will receive a gift card of their choice from Etsy, Blick, Walmart or Amazon in the amount of $50 for first place, $25 for second

place and $15 for third place. Ann Crow, Jenny Roland, Nan Phillips and Jo Schwartz coordinated the coffee open house as an outreach of the Friends.

The North Webster Bridge Group met Tuesday, Dec. 6, at the Senior Primelife Enrichment Center in the North Webster Community Center. Winners Tuesday were Jean Cowan, first, and Mike Wyrick, second.

It

happened in North Webster ... 30 years ago

North Webster Lions Club hosts Christmas party for needy children

10 YEARS AGO, DEC. 5, 2012

North Webster Tippecanoe Township Fire Department and EMS just collected $165 for the upcoming holiday event under the auspices of North Webster Community Services, better known as North Webster Food Bank. J.B. Routh and Lori Mark of the food pantry accepted the check from Fire Chief Jeremy Likens and EMS Director Alyssa Schmucker.

Congratulations to the winners of North Webster Christmas cash in the Mail-Journal’s sister publication, ‘the PAPER’ Kosciusko County edition. Shane Evans won $250 in Christmas cash to spend at the participating merchants. He entered at Triple T Outlet. Pretty Pillow Company had the second-place winner, Carol Edwards, who won $100, while Marvin Whitacre was drawn as the third-place winner of $50 at NAPA.

20 YEARS AGO, DEC. 4, 2002

The North Webster Military Support Group on Sunday prepared 19 packages for military

men and women stationed across the country. “We had a lot of volunteers and a lot of stuff for those packages,” said Joyce Ditmore, coordinator of the support group.

Lady Lionesses were on a mission to help area families Monday evening. The women went shopping at Pamida in Syracuse for the North Webster Community Christmas charity project.

North Webster Area Community Services, the Lakeland Kiwanis Club, American Legion Post 253 and others join forces each holiday season to provide for this annual charitable endeavor.

Yvonne Beyers entertained members of Rural Neighbors Club in her home Nov. 20. The meditation was given by Julia Shepherd. A video of Yosemite National Park was shown by Darla McCammon. Linda Torpy presided during the business session.

30 YEARS AGO, DEC. 2, 1992

North Webster Lions Club Christmas party for needy children will be Dec. 19.

Betty Bond gave the invoca-

It happened in Milford … 10 years ago

tion Nov. 17 when 18 members of North Webster American Legion Auxiliary met at the post and Donna Rose presided. The charter was draped in memory of Sheila Berghorn. Lois Fulk reported that four members of the Legion and four members of the auxiliary spent Oct. 28 in Fort Wayne playing tables games at the VA Hospital.

Ethel Merritt, Bluffton, and Virginia Meyer, Barbee Lake, were guests at the Nov. 18 meeting of Tippecanoe Township Club held at North Webster Church of God. Pat Friddle opened the business session.

40 YEARS AGO, DEC. 8, 1982

North Webster Lady Lions met Dec. 2 at the fire station. Alesia Kiser was in charge of the business section. Plans were made to prepare dinner for the Dec. 11 EMS banquet. All proceeds will go to the North Webster Christmas charity fund.

An investiture for North Webster Brownie and Girl Scout troops was held recently at North Webster United Method-

ist Church. Rev. Rex Lindemood, representing the Scout sponsors, was present. The flag ceremony was presented by Cadette Scouts, Tabatha Dietz, Sherry Ross, Sherie Amick and Denise Ross, who is a Junior Scout.

North Webster Girl Scouts and their families participated in a county-wide roller skating party held Dec. 4 in Warsaw.

50 YEARS AGO, DEC. 6, 1972

The three 4-H clubs in Tippecanoe Township — Chain-OLakes, Wee Webster Workers and Room4U — met jointly at the North Webster School recently for presentation of awards and completion pins. Jeff Rhodes, president of the Chain-O-Lakes Club, brought the meeting to order.

Members of the North Webster Volunteer Fire Department and the ladies auxiliary met at the fire station Sunday for a cooperative Christmas dinner with ham and turkey furnished and prepared at the station. There were 26 present for the dinner after which the ladies had a short business meeting.

Fertilizer processing plant coming

10 YEARS AGO, DEC. 5, 2012

Officials from TruPointe Cooperative Inc. and the Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation closed a land deal Friday that will bring a multi-milliondollar fertilizer processing plant to the Milford area. The facility will be located just outside of the town limits, near the northeast corner of the junction of the CSX east-west rail line and NorfolkSouthern north-south rail line. Both rail lines will be heavily used by the company.

Milford Lions President David Brown presented a plaque of appreciation to Beverly Flannery for all the years she has served meals to the club. Flannery is retiring at the end of the year.

The Miller home on Dewart

Lake started to look a lot like Christmas last week. John Miller set up a comprehensive variety of inflatable Christmas personalities, including Humpty-Dumpty Santa, a nativity scene and a few others.

20 YEARS AGO, DEC. 4, 2002

Jared Haughee, a member of the Christian Church of Milford, was part of Warsaw Community High School’s FFA team which placed eighth in the nation at the North America International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Ky.

The new yurts, being constructed at Camp Mack, have been named. The Indiana Camp Board approved the name Mission Village for the new village. A committee was appointed by the board to come up with a policy statement on naming the individual buildings. The board ac-

cepted the committee’s statement that buildings be named for people who have played a vital role in Church of the Brethren, Indiana districts, outdoor ministries, Camp Mack or the wider church. The actual yurts will be named Eby, Crumpacker, Stover, Burke, Rhodes and Moomaw.

30 YEARS AGO, DEC. 2, 1992

Christmas decorations went up on Milford’s Main Street Monday, Nov. 30. The new decorations were purchased from Marsha’s Holiday Frolic in Pierceton for about $1,200.

Local resident Kent Sawyer recently received the distinction of being named to the most recent edition of “Who’s Who in Industry.” Kent, a 1973 graduate of Wawasee High School, is owner of Sawyer Excavating.

40 YEARS AGO, DEC. 8, 1982

Darrell and Diana Doss, twin

children of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Doss of Milford, have been chosen by the Milford Elementary School music teacher, Donna Pollen, as the December Music Students of the Month. Darrell and Diana are fourth grade students at the elementary school.

The tearing down of the old school at Milford brings floods of memories including the fact that teachers at the old high school must have done something right since many MHS grads are very successful people. The Indiana General Assembly was called into session on Monday to grapple with an anticipated state fund deficit of about $450 million. Among the legislators are three men who graduated from Milford High School.

50 YEARS AGO, DEC. 6, 1972

Carl Shearer, minister of the Milford Christian church, announced that he has accepted a call to the ministry of the Hillcrest Christian church in Hazel Crest, Ill. Mr. Shearer and his family moved to Milford from Kansas, Ill., in July of 1956. He has been active in the community, serving on the Milford library board.

Mr. and Mrs. Merle Campbell of Milford are spending a week with their daughter and her husband, Bruce and Betty Vanlaningham of Gusher, Utah.

Several Milford men stopped in and visited with Nancy and Bob Willson in Custer, S.D., while deer hunting in the western states. The Willsons recently moved from Milford to Custer.

Leesburg Candelaria — celebrated for decades

freshments such as coffee and hot chocolate at the old firehouse in downtown Leesburg.

The town of Leesburg will be carrying on the Candelaria and Christmas party tradition this year 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, with Santa making a special appearance at 6 p.m.

There will be cookies and re-

According to Craig Charlton, the Candelaria was first introduced to the town in the 1980s and continues to be an annual celebratory event to this day.

The following is a letter to the editor from exactly 10 years ago,

It happened in Syracuse ... 20 years ago

sent by Christina Archer, who is still responsible for organizing the event:

“The Leesburg Candelaria and Christmas party was a wonderful evening of cookies, carols, cocoa, candles and Santa Claus, thanks to the hard work of our many volunteers.

“A special thank you and

‘Merry Christmas’ to these friends, families and organizations: Sue Charlton, Craig and Mason Charlton, Scott Charlton and Vonnie Cook, Larry and Sue Richey, Helen Smoker, Chet Stump, Leesburg Mighty Farmers 4-H Club, Grace Brethren Church carolers, Leesburg United Methodist cookie bak-

ers, Plain Township Fire Department, Louie Davis, Snyder Trucking, Archer Trucking, Paul Smith, Mark and Aimee and the Ruben and Betty Clover Foundation.”

Many of these people and organizations are still involved with the Candelaria and Christmas party, either as volunteers

or attendees. “None of this would be possible without the volunteers or the encouragement and help from the community. It is so nice to be able to carry on the tradition for our small town,” Archer said.

Share the joy of the holiday season with this longtime town tradition.

Former Syracuse resident receives Hope Award

10 YEARS AGO, DEC. 5, 2012

Shirley Bobeck, Barbara Bartels, Harold Brumm, Ben Deterling, Carol Elder, Marlene Pollock, Priscilla Garner and Elaine Pearson, directed by Jane Modesitt, participated in the rehearsal for the cantata and Christmas program at Calvary United Methodist Church.

Agatha and Amelia Dumbford were 2012 Indiana State Fair champions. Aggi received a Champion of Champions in the English horse halter class and a reserve champion in the Senior hunter class. Amelia got a

first place in her division, junior showmanship and a Champion of Champions in overall showmanship and a grand champion in the hunter under saddle division.

The Syracuse Police Department recently received a $500 donation from the Wawasee Kiwanis Club.

20 YEARS AGO, DEC. 4, 2002

Calvin Kline of Syracuse is the newly appointed sergeant for the Syracuse Police Department. On why he entered the field of law enforcement he explained, “It’s something I have wanted to do since I was in high school. I en-

joy working with the public and community and I find the work to be interesting and sometimes rewarding.”

Former Syracuse resident, Mary Jane McCain, now residing in Phoenix, Ariz., was recently honored and presented with the Hope Award at the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation, Jim L. Walker Arizona Chapter, 2002, Inaugural Hope Award Dinner. Dan and Julie Wuthrich, Syracuse, are the parents of a son, Matthew Craig, born at 1:03 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23, in Goshen General Hospital. He weighed 9

pounds, 14.5 ounces and was 20 1/2 inches long. 30 YEARS AGO, DEC. 2, 1992

A delightful Christmas display lights up the front porch of Dorothy Causer’s home on Carroll Street with a village winter scene. Dorothy has enjoyed setting up the village for a number of years and has a large collection of lighted houses and people with street lights all around.

There were 300 people at each matinee showing of the movie “Beethoven” last Saturday at the Pickwick Theatre. According to Carol Hurd, a real full house for both showings.

Syracuse’s Mary Jo Beck spent two months in Florida as a Red

Cross Volunteer, helping the people of southern Florida try and recover from the devastation of Hurricane Andrew.

40 YEARS AGO, DEC. 8, 1982

Town Board President Carl Myrick stated publicly at a recent town board meeting that a building could be built for $59 per square foot, based on the costs of the new Liberty Coach Co. office building on South Huntington Street and on the new junior high school in Milford. Myrick thinks, further, that a more reasonable figure for a new Syracuse Town Hall would be $485,000 with a total projected figure of about $580,000.

The largest crowd ever, over

NOTICE OF HEARING

350 in all, attended the Christmas Bell Walk, sponsored by the Syracuse-Wawasee Garden Club on Sunday. At the home of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Wysong, a 12foot Christmas tree was the featured attraction.

50 YEARS AGO, DEC. 6, 1972

The third annual Christmas Bell Walk sponsored by the Syracuse-Wawasee Garden Club will be held this coming Sunday, Dec. 10, between 2 and 7 p.m. Tours will be taken of five area homes. Homes on the tour are those of Mrs. Jean Brown, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Prickett, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Moore, and the homes of Mr. and Mrs. Don Robinson and Mr. and Mrs. Roger Heintzelmans.

Pet food drive benefits Animal Welfare League

Molson Coors and Five Star Distributing held a pet food drive to benefit the Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County. The pet food drive was organized by Molson Coors Sr. Distributor Sales Executive Stacey Sherman and Five Star Distributing Marketing & Promotions Manager Lindsay Walter.

Five Star Distributing employees collected pet food and litter for donation, as well as a metal wire shelving unit for AWL’s new cat house. A personalized Blue Moon Solo Stove

was also donated for a fundraising raffle along with pet food and supplies.

“We are so grateful to have community partners like these two companies,” said AWL Executive Director Tonya Blanchard. “Their efforts to support these shelter pets are so greatly appreciated.”

“With inflation and cost of services still on the rise, our year-to-date expenses are already much higher than last year,” said John Lantz, AWL board president. “We are very

Governmental:

Offices: First 3 employees

34.95 74.70

1.000 39.75 34.95 74.70

Each additional employee 0.250 9.94 8.74 18.68

Post office: First 3 employees

1.000 39.75 34.95 74.70 Each additional employee 0.250 9.94 8.74 18.68

Fire department 1.000 39.75 34.95 74.70

Industrial: Manufacturing - unmetered: First 2 employees

1.000 39.75 34.95 74.70 Each additional employee 0.250 9.94 8.74 18.68 hspaxlp N.30-D.7

thankful these two companies came together and helped out our homeless pets.”

The Board of Trustees of the Lakeland Regional Sewer District (“District”)

Cromwell pastors help mommies around the world

Further, she has seen the ministry grow because others “have seen how this ministry has worked, so they invite me to other places.”

At an invitation — from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, no less — Irma Sauceda, senior pastor with her husband, Saul, of New Beginnings International Ministries in Cromwell, recently invested 10 days in Peru and Colombia plying her ministry, “Help My Mommy.”

Pastor Irma spoke at conferences and gave and received training in counseling women with children — and without husbands — to heal from their hurts and make their own way in the world.

Irma spent one-on-one time with the women, listening to their pain, encouraging their hearts and helping them begin entrepreneurial ventures in hands-on cottage industries such as making jewelry, operating a seamstress business or baking pastries and cakes. “They don’t have means of making their own living,” she said, “and we help them become entrepreneurs so they don’t have to depend on a man.”

Every year for 20 years, Irma has traveled overseas for “Help My Mommy,” a ministry she and another woman of faith founded a quarter of a century ago. She has established a similar ministry presence in Mexico, Africa and Turkey. A local “Help My Mommy” program is in operation in Cromwell.

“Women who do not have a husband do not have a place to adapt for advice and guidance,” said Saul. “Many women have been hurt and we try to help give them the faith and strength to live with hope of having a loving family.

“We try to help them be heard,” he said. “We believe in the strength of the feminine.”

Irma said after she counsels with a woman, she enlists the assistance of a local counselor or pastor to conduct follow-up. That person checks in on the woman with regular consistency every two weeks.

“They listen to the women to know what areas they need help in. Not all women know what the real causes of their hurts are,” Saul said. “Sometimes they are in denial or under deception, and others make them believe it is all their fault. It is not.”

Irma said her most gratifying realization is the women “don’t feel the loneliness. They feel more comfortable being around someone who cares for them. They were afraid to express and open up.”

She emphasized the importance of having the women stay put in their own communities. “We do try to teach women to be entrepreneurs in their own countries, showing them God can bless them there. Many people will think they have to come to the United States to be blessed. But the people at the conferences will help these women in their own country. We have local businessmen counseling women.”

For anyone locally who knows of a woman in need of counseling, the Saucedas suggest, “get a hold of us and we can follow up. Don’t try to take it on yourself; you could make it worse. The situations are complicated and involve things that are very personal.”

The Saucedas opened New Beginnings three years ago, having planted churches in Mexico, Texas and Minnesota during their 35 years in ministry.

They hold Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship services at 11 a.m. The congregation also gets together at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays for prayer and Bible study, and a youth group meets at 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays.

The nondenominational church is “targeted toward Latinos,” said Saul, “but when visitors come who don’t speak the language, we go bilingual.”

That being said, the Saucedas wish everyone a “Feliz Navidad” and a “Merry Christmas.”

After the Sunday, Dec. 18, service, the Saucedas depart for two weeks in Mexico, taking toys for the children whose moms are in the “Help My Mommy” program.

New Beginnings International Ministries is located at 1990 N. 1200W, Cromwell.

For more information, call (260) 906-6155 or email irmasauceda826@gmail.com. Anyone interested in becoming part of the ministry can send a letter to P.O. Box 522, Cromwell, IN 46732.

LOOK WHO crashed the Em and Em Show last week (until they had to respond to a call two seconds after this photo). Members of the Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory stopped in for some coffee at the North Webster Community Center as Emily Worrell and Emily Shipley just sat down to film and talk about all the festive happenings in the community. Joining the Emiliys were, from left: Tanner Swihart, Taylor See, Lucas Niespodzoany, Lester Mast and Kyle Stamm. —o—

BOBI’S SHEAR Success, 105 S. Main St., Milford, is celebrating 40 years of business and would like to say “thank you” and Merry Christmas with an open house. Stop by between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 22, and enjoy some cookies and punch to celebrate this milestone with owner Bobi Doll!

WITH THE hustle and bustle of the holidays, basketball fans should not overlook these upcoming deadlines. The deadline to sign up for the Syracuse Adult Basketball League is Monday, Dec. 19. The league needs a minimum of six teams or a maximum of eight teams to participate, and the cost is $350 per team. For more information, contact Darin at (574) 457-3440 or dlursen@syracusein.org.

For kids ages 3-5 and kindergarten through fifth grade, the deadline for LYC winter basketball is 11:59 p.m. Jan. 10. Cost is $30 for the peewee league; and $50 per child and $40 per each additional sibling for the older group. Visit lakelandyouthcenter.com for more information.

A SEMINAR, “Practicing Gratitude,” will be held from 10-10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, at North Webster Community Center. This is part of a threemonth mental health series at the center.

DETAILS ARE still being gathered, but Around the Lakes can confirm that Keith Hunsberger has sold his auto repair business, Jake’s Service, located west of Milford at 12093 N 200W. While Hunsberger is retiring, the other guys in the shop are sticking around, so there shouldn’t be any drop-off in the quality of service they have famously provided.

IN NEED of food? Would you like to donate food or money to help your neighbors? North Webster Food Pantry is open from 10 a.m. to noon Tuesdays and 1-3 p.m. Thursdays. The food bank is a drive-thru only. For more information, call (574) 244-2142 or email nwfoodpantry@gmail.com.

THERE IS still time to participate in the Van Buren Township Food Pantry’s “Cram the Van” food drive. From now through Friday, Dec. 9, you can bring food items, cleaning supplies and personal hygiene items to Milford School to help restock the shelves at the pantry, which is located inside Milford First Brethren Church, 110 W. Catherine St. If you have any questions, contact office manager Vickie Scarpellini at (574) 518-0529. —o—

OPERATION BLANKET raised enough money to give a blanket to every kindergarten student in the Wawasee School Corporation. Well done, and thank you to everyone who donated to the effort!

ARE YOU looking for a great background for a family Christmas photo? Check out the Experience Syracuse Facebook page as several local businesses are offering great holiday backgrounds for photos. All these business are offering free 15-minute sessions for families to come in and take some photos. Those wishing to partake need to call and make an appointment.

BE SURE to check out the storefront decorating contest in North Webster by visiting the chamber’s Facebook page. The business with the most “likes” or “loves” on their photo (on its page only) wins. —o—

Wednesday, Dec. 28.

Kiddos can stop by the writing station located in the children’s department at the library to write a letter to Santa. Library staff will give the letters to the United States Postal Service in time to reach the North Pole. The last day to stop by the writing station will be Friday, Dec. 16.

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NORTH WEBSTER Elementary School and PTO are partnering together again this holiday season to bring Christmas cheer to those in need through a Christmas assistance program. In past years, the North Webster Lady Lions Club, with the help of other organizations in the community, provided Christmas assistance services for students. NWES and PTO answered the call to keep the program running in 2018.

Last year, through the generosity of the community, it helped more than 50 families, including over 150 children. Each child received an outfit, a toy and a book, at around $65 total per child. Additionally, each family received a food donation to help with meals during the holiday break.

Contact NWES PTO with any questions or to help at northwebsterpto@gmail.com. Monetary donations may be made payable and mailed to North Webster Elementary School PTO, 5745 N. CR750E, North Webster, IN 46555. Be sure to write “Christmas” in the memo line.

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THANK YOU to everyone who participated in The Mail-Journal’s annual Milford Christmas Giveaway. The winners were recently drawn from the entries that were dropped off at the contest’s six sponsors.

Those taking home prizes this year included Brian Wideman, Milford, $25 gift certificate to Harry’s Tap & Grill; Debra Hill, Milford, Paul Mitchell products from Bobi’s Shear Success; Rob Jansma, Leesburg, $25 gift certificate from Jenkins Automotive (NAPA); Helen Taylor, Syracuse, one-year subscription to The Mail-Journal; Michelle Flynn, Milford, dinner for two at China Sea; and Laura Circle, Nappanee, two broasted chicken dinners at the Turf Bar.

Winners have been notified by the respective programs’ sponsors. Thanks to each business for making this contest possible! —o—

NEW HOPE Pet Rescue will host its annual “Paws-itively” Wonderful Christmas Outside Carnival from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10. Visit the rescue for Santa, free games and crafts for the kids, Christmas shopping and photo opportunities, including with Santa.

Additionally, the furry friends at New Hope recently wrote their letter to Santy Paws asking for the following: paper towels, Dawn dish soap, Friskies or 9 Lives canned pate, cat carriers - new or used, canned dog food, bleach, large flexible garbage bags, live traps, new or used cellphones, Kleenex, copy paper, privacy envelopes and toilet paper. Items can be dropped off at 72555 CR 29, Syracuse.

In their letter, all of the dogs and cats at New Hope stated they had been very good and wished for a loving foster or furever home for Christmas, like pup Johnny Cash, pictured here. —o—

AROUND THE Lakes honestly has no idea what to write about this photo, Recently, Milford School Principal Michael Casey took the whole Elf on a Shelf game to an entirely different level. Last week, Casey donned his favorite red elf costume and squeezed his way into one of the school’s display cases, where he was on full display for the students and staff at the school. Well done, sir.

Calvary UMC to host free community dinner

Calvary United Methodist Church, 801 S. Huntington St., Syracuse, will host a free community dinner from 5:30-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9. The meals will be available for dine-in or drive-thru pickup.

The dinner is sponsored by the church’s women’s group, Hannah Circle, as an outreach ministry to

the hungry in the Syracuse area community.

The dinners are held the second Friday of each month. The next dinner will be Jan. 13.

For more information, call the church at (574) 457-3778 or visit facebook.com/syracusecalvary. umc.

FOR THOSE looking for something new to read, the adult book club at the library is reading “How the Penguins Saved Veronica,” a tale of how a grandmother, her grandson and a group of scientists in Antarctica learn what family, love and connection are all about. Discussions on the book will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, in the downstairs meeting room and 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 20, on Zoom.

The young adult book club is reading “Daughter of the Moon Goddess,” a book that begins a duology which weaves ancient Chinese mythology into a sweeping adventure with immortals, magic, loss and sacrifice. The book club will meet from 4-5 p.m.