The Mail-Journal - December 28, 2022

Many grateful for free Christmas dinner

A few folks were lined up as early as 2 p.m. today at The Owls Nest, North Webster, for an opportunity to get a free Christmas dinner. Distribution started at 4 p.m. with only 150 meals available, and by approximately 4:40 p.m. all meals had been distributed.

The meal distribution was moved from Saturday, Dec. 24, to Thursday afternoon due to the pending weather predictions.

The dinner consisted of Parmesan crusted chicken with a white wine sauce, garlic mashed potatoes, homestyle green beans, a roll and butter.

A crew from The Owls Nest dished up the meals while volunteers from Ruoff Mortgage, along with Lisa Strombeck, Mike Shock, Monica Wilson, Chris and LeAnn Francis, Lindsay Grossnickle and her daughter, Norah, and others joined in handing out the dinners.

Recipients of the meals were elated, many offering thanks and saying, “God bless you.”

Chautauqua-Wawasee announces 2023 event lineup

Chautauqua-Wawasee has announced its 2023 event lineup, featuring some old favorites and some brand new events.

“Programming will be 75% the same as 2022 programs, but with new speakers providing new content. We are adding four new faith-based programs, since we felt our 2022 support of the Faith pillar was inadequate,” said Mark Knecht, president of Chautauqua-Wawasee.

Chautauqua-Wawasee’s 2023 spring musical performance will feature the Ball State University Singers, an elite musical show choir of 40 students, performing a wide variety of popular hit songs and musical theater. The singers are under the direction of Jodi Cotton-Street. Devin Van Lue, a 2022 graduate of Wawasee High School, is an ensemble member of the choir.

The concert will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10, in the school auditorium, 1 Warrior Path, Syracuse. General admission tickets are $10, with VIP seating $20. Knecht noted tickets are expected to sell out quickly for this event.

For ticket information, visit chautauquawawasee.org or Chautauqua-Wawasee’s Facebook page or call Debbie at (574) 377-7543.

Knecht said the Purdue Singers are expected to return in 2024, with a group from Notre Dame being considered for 2025.

In April Chautauqua-Wawasee will host a faith series, presented by Michael Spath, DMin, Ph.D.,

Syracuse Town Council President looks back on 2022

“It was a very interesting, trying year,” said Bill Musser, who served as Syracuse Town Council president during 2022.

Mother Nature was the one who made it a trying year for town employees, with weather playing a huge factor.

The Syracuse Street Department did five times the brush pickup than it has done in the past. The community brush pile, which is converted to mulch, is to the limit. “It really put pressure

on the (street department) team. I can’t thank those guys enough,” he said.

The public works department also had a number of water leaks to contend with. Musser noted a number of companies have come into town to install fiber optic cable. While these companies were given maps of the pipes, Musser noted the maps tend to be old and not always accurate, so the fiber optic companies would occasionally hit the pipes while digging to install the cable.

Musser also really wanted to see the creation of a dog park

in town. The property on Dolan and Main streets was considered. However, the Syracuse Public Library is looking for space to expand and the Dolan property was the most centrally located.

While Ridgestone Developers, which is converting the old Syracuse Elementary School into apartments, has donated property to the town for a dog park, the project has stalled.

The Ridgestone project has several apartments completed. Musser said he’s had an opportunity to tour the completed units.

Successful Year For Ministerial Association

executive director, Indiana Center for Middle East Peace.

“Our program team felt we weren’t providing adequate programs in support of the Faith pillar,” Knecht said. “Our research discovered Spath of Fort Wayne, who has a program, ‘Religion: Where It Came From, Where It’s Heading and How It Continues to Change the World.’

“This interactive three-part series explores faith, spirituality and religion, their origins, how they shape and were shaped by the environment, the development of the brain, and human social patterns. We’ll also discuss why this is so important to our faith today as we continue as a species and as individuals, to search for meaning and to understand our place in the universe.”

Chautauqua-Wawasee is partnering with several Goshen churches to bring this series to the public.

All sessions will be held from 7-8:30 p.m. April 12, 20 and 27, in the Jennings Auditorium, Greencroft Goshen Community Center, 1820 Greencroft Blvd., Goshen.

The month of May will feature a number of favorite Chautauqua events, including partnering with the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation for Earth Day events from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 6. The first Lake Wawasee “Points of Interest” Historical Cruise will be held May 18, followed by the Wawasee Fine Arts Festival at Oakwood May 27 and the third annual Taps Across the Water at

dusk May 28.

In June the Patriotic Speaker Series will feature Abigail Adams and Martha Washington. The two, wives of Founding Fathers John Adams and George Washington, are the first Patriotic women to give a presentation in the series.

“Our 2022 feedback forms proposed we offer a women’s perspective in 2023,” Knecht said. “Abigail Adams was a choice. When we spoke to an Abigail reenactor, she asked if we’d like to have a program that included Martha Washington. We loved the idea, so we will have them both.”

The ladies will give their presentation from 4:30-5:40 p.m., followed by the annual Patriotic Pops Concert by the Fort Wayne Philharmonic at 7:30 p.m.

In July Chautauqua-Wawasee will introduce a new program, “Wawasee Walk Down Memory Lane.” “The feedback we regularly receive is the desire for more programs about local history,” said Knecht. A 1937 video taken from a boat while cruising the circumference of Lake Wawasee exists. A second video, created to market the Spinks Hotel, also exits. A third video of the 1950s Chinese Gardens is also available.

“The ‘Memory Lane’ program will present these videos and will use this program as a springboard to solicit personal old home movies people may have in their attic, closet, etc. These will be accumulated, converted to new media and used for a program in Continued on page 2

Syracuse-Wawasee Trail Committee looks forward to expansion

The Syracuse-Wawasee Trail Committee has been in existence for 20 years. The main focus for 2022 was reviewing the feasibility reports, which will ultimately result in a plan for future trail expansion that should eventually double our current trail system.

The feasibility study’s objectives included:

1. Evaluating options for expansion and connection of the existing trail system.

2. Completing existing trail segments and expanding connectivity among neighborhoods, schools, parks and businesses.

3. Providing safe, attractive and comfortable routes for people to explore and enjoy all areas surrounding Lake Wawasee.

4. Planning for future connection to regional amenities and other communities.

Our mission is to develop amenable nonmotorized transportation routes with convenient access for walkers, runners and bicyclists to parks, lakes, schools, neighborhoods and businesses to encourage and fulfill the need for healthy outdoor family-oriented activities.

Our next construction project was announced at our second annual “Life is Better on the Trail” fundraiser Sept. 1. The committee decided to expand the trail where Conklin Bay ends and extend it to Wawasee Middle School, with the name of the new trail section being “Wawasee South.” Deciding the next construction project was a tough decision for the committee.

We have not forgotten about the lake area, and conversations with the county highway department are underway. Such things as additional striping along the roadways are being considered. The committee felt it made sense to continue to Wawasee Middle School, since it is the only school not connected to our current trail system. The Wawasee South Trail will parallel SR 13 between Grandview Drive and CR 1000 N. This will extend our Conklin Bay Trail, providing an additional 2.2 miles and eventually connection to the town of North Webster.

Trails clearly play a vital role in our community, and Syracuse is fortunate to have 12-plus miles of them. They allow our residents and visitors safe areas to walk, run or bike, which promotes a healthy lifestyle. They provide a way to get outdoors to exercise, get fresh air and de-stress.

Middle school students would benefit because they’d be able to more safely walk or bike to school along SR 13, giving parents peace of mind.

The bigger picture, of course, is that by coordinating the efforts of the Syracuse-Wawasee Trail Committee and the North Webster Trail Committee, the entire area will benefit. In fact, North Webster Town Council President Dan Thystrup and a team of individuals have already begun their fundraising efforts to develop a trail north from North Webster to Wawasee Middle School.

Ultimately, trail users will benefit with an additional 2.2 miles of trail that connects to various locations like Wawasee Middle School

and restaurants along the way. We have already seen how much Conklin Bay is used and this will expand that section of trail and provide more users on the south side of Lake Wawasee access to trails to enjoy our lakes, shopping and restaurants.

Last fall, we used a counter from Michiana Area Council of Governments to measure activity on Conklin Bay. We had more than 1,200 users on one day and it was off-season. Extending Conklin Bay to the middle school will continue to increase activity on our trail system.

Securing state funding is the first step to making the Wawasee South Trail a reality and we need your help in expanding our trail system. We are looking into state funding grants that require an 80/20 match as well as out-of-pocket expenses.

Trail expansion includes raising funds for this new project, including construction and design costs. This process will take time and community involvement. Keep in mind that our last project, Conklin Bay, was five years in the making prior to construction.

Trail development involves everyone, and we would like input and collaboration from our community. Once we get into the design phase with more specific information, we will hold community engagement meetings.

It has taken two decades for Syracuse to develop our current trail system and it is important to reflect on our past while maintaining what we currently have and moving ahead. As a nonprofit, we rely on public support to build and maintain trails and fund administrative costs.

LEPC meeting schedule for 2023 announced

Meeting dates for the Kosciusko County Local Emergency Planning Committee have been announced for 2023. All meetings are open to the public.

Dates or 2023 will be: Feb. 9, May 11, Aug. 10 and Nov. 9. 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 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 emergen-

cies, it plans for them. Worst-case scenarios become the focus of intensive exercises that test communications, 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.

Chautauqua-Wawasee

2024. We are also considering incorporating an oral history as part of this program,” Knecht said.

In September ChautauquaWawasee is bringing back the historical sessions, this time with a focus on archaeology.

On Sept. 9, two tribal officers will talk about the history of the Miami people since time immemorial, telling the stories of their emergence as a unique and different people, their first encounters with Europeans and later with Americans, land loss

and forced removals and revitalization of the Miami tribe today. Discussion will also include the use of plants as food, medicine, technology and cultural historical conduits.

November’s offering will be “Does Nature Love You Back?” on Nov. 4. Everyone says they love nature, but does nature love us back? And how would we know? This program will be an interactive session co-hosted by Cliff Kindy, Dani Tippman and John Edgerton, who have spent their lifetimes working with plants, animals, water and

soil. They come together for the first time to offer a shared vision of their life’s work, woven from three independent strands into a unified message of hope, harmony and humility.

The last event is the annual Old Fashioned Christmas on Nov. 25.

“We’re able to put our programs on at no cost due to the support of the Brembeck Foundation, Harkless Foundation, Kosciusko County Community Foundation and generous donations from local businesses and individuals,” said Knecht.

Milford

Public Library

— Time to pay 2022 fines

Please make sure to pay any library fines accrued in 2022 before Jan. 15. The staff at Milford Public Library appreciates patrons taking care of fines so they can all begin the new year with a zero balance. The fines you pay become part of the operating income, so it is very important for the library’s financial health to pay your fines.

Winter Activity Packets

Winter Activity Packets have been available beginning Dec. 23. These are packets for preschool thru upper elementary ages. They will give the packets out until they are all gone, so be

sure to ask for one at the adult or children’s circulation desk. There are several crafts to make in each packet and a sweet surprise.

Holiday Closings

Milford Public Library will be closed Saturday, Dec. 31, for New Year’s Eve and Monday, Jan. 2, for New Year’s Day.

Accepting Donations

For Food Pantry

From now until Dec. 30, the library is accepting donations for the Van Buren Township Food Pantry. They have a list of most requested/needed items. There are donation boxes in the adult and children’s area of the library.

The Van Buren Township Food Pantry is located at Milford First Brethren Church, 110 W. Catherine St. (back alley at the gym entrance). Pantry hours are 2-5 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays.

Adult Reading Program

The annual Adult Reading Program begins Jan. 3. This year’s theme is “All Together Now.” Just sign up at the adult circulation desk and enter a weekly drawing for each book you read or audio book you listen to. Anyone age 18 or older can join the program. Stop by the library for more information.

Syracuse Public Library — Pick up the challenge to read in 2023

Make it your New Year’s aspiration to read more. The Syracuse Public Library’s 2023 adult reading challenge launches Jan. 1, so “Join the Search Party” on its quest to find the year’s best books. Guess how many books you will read from Jan. 1 through Oct. 10 and sign up with Becky Brower; there is a 15-book minimum goal to join the challenge. Finally, start reading. Any book — including e-books, comic books, audiobooks, etc. — read within the period counts even if you read them before you officially sign up for the challenge.

While reading, don’t forget to record your finished books. Choose whichever method of recording you prefer, whether you use scrap pieces of paper, Goodreads, a notebook or a spreadsheet. Strive to meet your goal by the Oct. 10 end date, and then attend the challenge party. Stay tuned for more details.

To sign up digitally, email syracusepublib@gmail.com.

Book Clubs Announce January Picks

Get a head start on reading goals by joining one of the library’s book clubs.

The adult book club will read “All by Myself, Alone” by Mary Higgins Clark. Mystery fans won’t want to miss the boat on this suspenseful tale surrounding a murder and a missing emerald necklace that takes place on a cruise ship. Discussions occur at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 17, via Zoom; and at 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19, in the library’s downstairs meeting room.

Contact Becky Brower, bbrower@syracuse.lib.in.us, for information or to receive a Zoom invitation.

Young adults will read “Mirror Girls” by Kelly McWilliams, a story about twin sisters separated after the lynching of their parents, who died for loving across the color line. Now, at the dawn of the Civil Rights Movement, Charlie is a young Black organizer in Harlem, while white-passing Magnolia is the heiress to a cotton plantation in rural Georgia.

The sisters reunite as teenagers in the deeply haunted town of Eureka, Ga., where ghosts linger centuries after their time and dangers lurk behind every mirror. They couldn’t be more different, but they will need each other to put the hauntings of the past to rest, break the mirrors’ deadly curse — and discover the meaning of sisterhood in a racially divided land.

Young adults can discuss at either 4 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, or noon Saturday, Jan. 28. Both discussions will meet in the Rosalyn Jones Room/young adult space.

Contact Amber Weber, aweber@ syracuse.lib.in.us, or Michelle

Parker, mparker@syracuse.lib. in.us, for information.

Books for both clubs are available for checkout at the Syracuse Public Library. Digital e-books and audiobooks are also available on the Libby app.

Upcoming Teen Art Contest Deadline

The extended “All Together Now!” Teen Art Contest deadline arrives Friday, Jan. 6. Teens in sixth through 12th grade can turn in their finished projects and packets at either the North Webster Community Public Library or Syracuse Public Library. For information, rb.gy/6mgek9. The art open house happens from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at the North Webster Community Public Library, 110 E. North St. Artists, their families and the community are invited to attend.

New Year’s Closings

The Syracuse Public Library will close from Saturday, Dec. 31, through Monday, Jan. 2, for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Syracuse Town Council

The units have washers/dryers; water, heat, air conditioning and Wi-Fi will be included in the rent.

“Rent prices will be competitive,” he said. The complex will also have an indoor and outdoor play area for children and a workout center for adults. “It sounds like the place will be very attractive for those looking for an apartment,” Musser said.

“I’m very happy we’ve gotten together with the Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District,” Musser said. The town council has entered into an interlocal agreement with the conservancy district to pay $50,000 toward repairs to the Wawasee Dike, which are expected to cost around $700,000. The project is expected to be completed by next Memorial Day.

The council is still looking for additional housing opportunities for residents.

The ball park is coming along. Actual construction work was wrapped up by mid-November and a rainy fall gave the grass a good opportunity to get started before winter. Musser said the kids should be able to play there next spring.

“Overall the town is in really, really good shape,” Musser said. “We could not have found a better city manager than Dave Wilkinson,” Musser said, noting Wilkinson’s previous experience as a police officer and town manager have been a huge benefit. He also credited Mark Aurich, public works superintendent, for the work he’s done, saying the street, water and wastewater employees have enormous respect for him.

Christopher Ryan Doty WHS Graduate

Christopher Ryan Doty, a lifetime resident of the Syracuse area, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2022, at home. “Chris,” as most knew him, was 30 years old.

Born on Sept. 25, 1992, in Elkhart, Chris is the son of Douglas Doty and Patsy Miller. He was a graduate of Wawasee High School, competing in soccer and football in his youth. He worked in several local positions after graduating and may be remembered for working at Maple Leaf, Forest River and other RV manufacturers.

More personally, Chris is remembered for his sense of humor, his ability to always smile (even in the face of adversity) and his love of video games. He was inquisitive too, often reverse engineering things to learn how they worked.

Those who survive with memories to cherish include daughter, Diamantina Ann of North Webster; mother, Patsy Miller of Syracuse; father, Douglas Doty of Thailand; brother, Brian (Sharee) Doty of Syracuse; and grandmother, Jane Doty of Chicago, Ill. He is also survived by a brother-in-law, Sukgwinder “Rambo” Singh; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in passing by sister, Rebecca Singh; paternal grandfather; and maternal grandparents.

Titus Funeral Home is entrusted with the care of the Doty family. Visitation was held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 26, at Titus Funeral Home-Owen Chapel of Syracuse, 1001 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. Pastor Mike Beezley, Clunette United Methodist Church, officiated Chris’ life celebration at 2 p.m.. Burial was held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 27, at Whitehead/Maple Grove Cemetery in New Paris.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be given to the funeral home who will collect donations for Chris’s daughter, Diamantina.

Written condolences for the family may be left at www.titusfuneralhome.com.

Local police stepping up patrols during the holiday

The Kosciusko County Traffic Safety Partnership announced it will be stepping up patrols as part of the Safe Family Travel holiday enforcement campaign. Starting this week, officers will be out in greater numbers showing zero tolerance for anyone driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

The department joins more than 200 participating law enforcement agencies in the campaign, which runs through Jan. 1. While officers will be targeting impaired drivers, they will also be on high alert for seat belt violations and other forms of unsafe driving. Their goal is to help ensure people make it to and from their celebrations safely.

The extra high-visibility enforcement is funded with grants provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration through the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute.

“If you’re out celebrating over the holiday, make sure you have a sober ride home,” said Craig Allebach, Kosciusko County Traffic Safety Partnership grant administrator. “Driving impaired is costly and could be deadly. Not only could you kill yourself or someone else in a crash, but you could also face thousands of dollars in legal fees, jail time or a revoked license. It’s not worth the risk.”

According to early estimates from ICJI, 903 people have died in motor vehicle crashes so far this year in Indiana. Although still preliminary, this makes 2022 one of only three years in the past decade to break 900 fatalities. Moreover, if the pace continues, Indiana could experience one of the deadliest years since the early 2000s.

Data from the institute suggests that impaired driving accounts for a significant portion of those fatalities. On average, approximately one-fourth of the state’s fatal collisions are caused by drunk drivers every year. While this is cause for concern, tragically, driving under the influence tends to be more prevalent during the holiday season.

“There are four main causes behind the rising number of fatal crashes, all of which are completely preventable, and those are impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving and not wearing a seat belt,” said Devon McDonald, ICJI executive director. “Unfortunately, driving under the influence is the one we’re most concerned about this time of year.”

With officers on high-alert, motorists are encouraged to plan to get home safely by designating a sober driver or by using public transportation or a ride service like Uber or Lyft. Even if one drink is consumed, never drive impaired or let friends get behind the wheel if they’ve been drinking. It’s also important to wear a seat belt, put away the distractions and follow posted speed limits.

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal in Indiana and all 50 states. Those who choose to drive impaired are, not only risking their life and the lives of others, but also could face an arrest, jail time and substantial fines and attorney fees. The average drunk driving arrest costs up to $10,000.

Motorists are encouraged to contact the department or call 911 if they encounter an impaired driver on the road.

Timeline From The Past: Lawsuits and Dewart Lake murder

From the files of the Kosciusko County Historical Society Dec. 12, 1979 — Final testimony is set in South Bend today in a lawsuit filed by former Warsaw Community High School teacher JoAnn DuPont against the local school corporation, but the jury won’t have to worry about any decisions.

U.S. District Court Judge Allen Sharp dismissed the panel of four men and four women Tuesday afternoon after attorneys for the school system and DuPont settled their differences out of the public courtroom on the issue of damages. The school agreed to pay an estimated $9,000, as opposed to the $50,000 sought in a Feb. 23 federal complaint.

DuPont, formerly a high school business instructor in Warsaw, alleged school administrators and the Board of Trustees had violated her First Amendment rights when she was fired from her position in March 1978. She maintains the board took the action because she publicly spoke out against the banning of textbooks and changing of curriculum. She also claims her involvement with the Warsaw Community Educators Association helped lead to her firing.

Dec. 14, 1971 — Mrs. Hazel J. Murphy has filed a $13.5 million suit for damages, charging that her hospital, Murphy Medical Center,

has been placed in jeopardy due to the interference of others. Defendants are Kosciusko Community Hospital Inc., the Hospital Authority of Kosciusko County, eight physicians and 12 members and former members of KCH.

Filed in Superior Court, it is believed to be the largest damage suit ever filed in Kosciusko County.

Murphy has another legal case pending in Wabash Circuit Court at Wabash against the Indiana State Board of Health and KCH over the awarding of federal Hill-Burton funds to KCH.

Dec. 16, 1969 — A man identified by the FBI as Jeffery Wayne McComsey, 22, is being held by police in Starke, Fla., and is being questioned by local authorities in connection with the slaying of a young Dewart Lake divorcee Nov. 5.

The body of Lillie Mae Ritchie, 29, was found in a small cottage on CR 1000N at the north edge of Dewart Lake Nov. 10, 1969.

Investigators said the young woman was lying on her bed with a rolled bedspread tied tightly around her neck with a double knot.

On. Jan. 21, 1970, a six-man Kosciusko County grand jury returned an indictment charging McComsey, of Lancaster, Pa., with first degree murder in the death of Ritchie.

– Compiled by Lasca Randels

Sharon Line

Sharon Line, 87, Syracuse, died Monday, Dec. 26, 2022, at Mason Health Care & Rehab in Warsaw.

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

Mary Dull

Mary Dull, 88, Milford, died Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2022, at Miller’s Merry Manor in Warsaw.

Arrangements are currently pending at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse.

Paula Searfoss

Paula Searfoss, 74, Syracuse, died Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2022, in her residence.

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

Births

Jacob Aaron Yoder

Dana and Sarah (Miller) Yoder, Milford, are the parents of a son, Jacob Aaron, born at 12:08 a.m. Dec. 22, 2022. He weighed 10 pounds, 4 ounces.

Cancer risks identified

Age, diet, race and nationality all play a role in prostate cancer risk, according to the American Cancer Society. So does family history. While the causes for this disease that no one likes to talk about are still unknown, statistics reveal that 60% of the cases are diagnosed in men over 60. Asian men are the least likely to contract this disease,

while African-Americans are 70% more at risk than white males. It’s also more common in ethnic groups from northwestern Europe and North America than it is among those from Central and South America and Africa.

A sibling or parent with prostate cancer doubles your chances of contracting the disease. Men with a female relative who has contracted or has a high risk of contracting breast cancer also have an in-

creased risk of developing prostate cancer.

It’s been revealed in some surveys that men who have undergone vasectomies face increased risk also.

Diet can lower the risk. Reducing consumption of red meat and high-fat dairy products is a good first step. And eating plenty of fruit and vegetables, such as tomatoes, watermelon and pink grapefruit, is also believed to lower the risk.

Mature Life Features Copyright 2022

HATTON-SADLER FUNERAL CHAPELS

Russell Adams Denny Alfrey Janice Amado

Dean Anderson

Rozella Anderson

Ruth Angle

Emma Anway Pamela Artley Allen Avery Jimmie Avery Jessica Bagot Jackie Bajza Anton Ball Larry Barrett Paul Bartels Sandra Bartels Bethel Barth

Robert Baugher Robert Bause Carol Beal Richard Beall

Josephine Becker

Paul Beezley Mickey Belcher

Lance Bell John Bickel Josey Bickel Debra Bissell Jamie Bissell

Myra Bixler

Rodney Blackburn Chase Blackburn

Beverly Blue

Karen Boddiger

Charolette Bond

Phyllis Boocher

Fran Bowser

Dustin Boyer Naomi Ruth Boyer Paula Bright Edna Brown

Joe Brown Lisa Brugh Collen Bryant Mary Buckey Donald “Don” Buhrt

Patricia Burns

Avon Bushong Geroge Bushong Liana Butcher Janet Byland Mona Belle Byrd Glen Campbell

Wayne Campbell Mary Cantillon Dilon Carpenter Terry Casselman

Guadulupe Castillo

Randy Catron Beatrice “Kay” Caudill

Roy Caywood Krisoff Chambers Taylor Chapman-Reyes

Adriel Clark

Lori Clark JoAnn Clayton James Close Owen Cobbum Clara Cogoswell

Timothy Collins

Tonya Collins

Candance Cooper John Corbin

Ronnie Cornett Theodore Corrao

David Cotton Jean Louise Coverstone

Wilma Cox

Richard Coy James Crafton Mathew Cramer

Ronald Crosby Betty Croy

Brendon Cummings Robert Curry Fred Curtis Darrell Custer

Phyllis Custer

LoaAnn Dahl

Phil Damewood Daniel Darlington Don Davis Jesse Davis

Marlene Davis Richard Day Javier DeLaFuente Sr.

Sabina DeLaFuente Brett Denney Jerry Dewey Cynthia Dewitt Judith Dietz Nancy Dishon Cassandra J. Doerr Michael Doll Anthony Draper Vicki Dunithan Robert Dust Paul Eichorst Chester Elder Melinda Elliott Michael Emel Nathaniel Enyeart Eric Espinoza Max Evans Shane Evans Christopher Evett Zachery Eyer Jonathan Fannin James Felt Casey Ferguson Shirley Fidler Richard Firestone Carol Fisher Dakota Bleu Fisher John Fisher Kraig Fisher Beverly Flannery Cassandra Fleck James Foster Lawrence Frazier Charles Freel Gloria Frew Gary Fugate Marlene Fugate Harold Galloway Patricia Gammiere Dane Gans My Hoa T. Gehlhausen Jerry Gerber Ricky Gerber Donna Gillem

William Goble

Carolyn Golden Jayden Goldsmith Edwin Gooding Jeanne Gooding Brent Gordon Genneva Gordon Kenneth Goshert

Ruth Graber

Laurel Graham Nick Grawcock

Frank Green

Joann Green Bessie Grimes Arnold Grindle

Gary Gross Janet Groves John Gullett Ray Haab

Edgar Haffner Jr

Basel Hale Mary Ellen Haney Stephen Hann Jerry Hapner John Harding Warren Harlan William Harris

Mary Ann Haskins

Ronald Haskins

Robert Hepler

Kenneth Herman Barbara Hetrick

Beckjo Hewitt Fred Hewitt

Nancy Hickman Robert Hickman Edna Hill

Donna Hillery

Elanor Hillery Joanne Hodson

Nancy Holbrook

Gina Hollingsworth David Housouer

Harland Hubbs

Patsy Hubbs Dennis Huffman

Christopher Hughes Jean Hunter Phillip Hunter Mary Hurley Judith Hussey

William Hutchinson Cora Hyso

Catherine Jarrett Sebastian Jarski

Gene Jessie Terry Johnson Cayden Jones Kimberly Jones William Julian Timothy Kaase

Peter Kaster Linda Kaufman

Randy Keene Kate Keim Larry Kelly Debra Kemper

Barbara Kieper

John Kinder

Donald Kinney Richard Kirkwood David Kistler

Peggy Kitson

Gary Kline Cavin Kline Jean Koher Keith Kolb Stewart Kraft

Scott Krieg

Kurt Kruger Jimmie Kuhn

Patricia Kuhn Ryan Kunish Shari Lambert

James Lantz

Robert Laughlin Edna Lawson

Dennis Lemberg Vickie Lerch Charles Lewallen Forrest Lewis Barbara Lilly Janet Lilly

Douglas Long Paul Longawa Eric Longenecker

Arnelda Losee

Connie Losee

Juanita Lozano Howard Luehrs George Lung Robert Luzbetak

Nancy Mack Patrick Madden

Michael Maddox

Vicki Mansfield Gary Martin Welsey Martin

Kylar Mast Mark Mast

Joyce Matson

Clelia Mayo Val McClish Heather McClure

Terry McGill Emma McIntire

Patricia McKibbin

Shirley McKinley Joseph Meier Charles Meservey Norman Metzler

Margaret Meyer Dorothy Mikowski

Andrew Miller

Debra Miller

Douglas Miller Gloria Miller

Linda Millslagle Wayne Millslagle Franklin Minear Kent Mishler Vickey Montgomery Constance Moore

Jason Morrow James Mulry

Sandra Murphy

Linda Musselman Terry Musselman

Conrad Neff

Robert Neff Willis Newby Frances Nichols Irene Nickerson Charles Niemann John Niswonger David Norris Frederic Northrup

Steven Northrup Edna Null Jon Nyce Kevin Ogburn Byron Oswald Eugene Ousley Jean Owen Linda Papp Thelma Parker Evalee Payne Michael Pease Thomas Perzee Sara Peters Christopher Peterson Randal Peterson Roger Peterson Richard Phillips Philip Plikerd Freddie Powell Robert Powers Anita Price Thomas Prickett Kay Promkhieo Dawn Randall Leroy Rapp Bertha Reish Brenda Renner Lois Replogle Priscilla Rhode Gabriel Rhodes Marilyn Rhodes Norman Rhodes Sara Rhodes Larry Richards Sharon Richards Janet Richcreek Alice Rider Nancy Riffle Mitchell Riley Charles Roberts Phyllis Roberts Margaret Rockenbaugh Rosemary Roembke Dorothy Rogers Loyal Rogers Dennis Ross Peggy Ryman James Sample Paul Sands William Saunders Mildred Savage Joel Sawyer Chris Schmucker Douglas Schuler David Scott Jennifer Scott Robert Secrest

Rudy Selent

Ida Serantes Donald Serviss Raymond Setlak Decker Setterberg Neva Sexton Betty Seymour Lowell Seymour Dennis Sharp James Shlater Daniel Shock Nancy Shock Samantha Shock Dylan Simison Alex Simpson Riley Simpson Rebecca Singh Loretta Skelton Ray Skelton Mary Sliter Myrtle Sliter Paul Sliter Joan Slocum Betty Smith Daryle Smith Donald Smith

James Smith Sue Smith Winifred Smith Christopher Solina Connie Solina Danny Somers Michelle Spaulding Doris A Stahly Troy Stephenson Dale Stidams Elaine Stilwell Jimmie Stinson Diana Stocklin Robert Stolze David Stookey Kathryn Streby Tony Strombeck Richard Strong Gary Stuckman Jerry Stutzman Terrence Suddon Roger Sumner David Swank Carol Swartz

James Sweazy Cornelius Swieringa Donald Swihart Stacy Swinehart William Tarman James Thomas Makensie Thomas Mary Thompson Lynda Thornburg Richard Tillman Daniel Tittle Everett Tom Janice Torbet Lisa Toth Stephen Tracy Charles Troup Vonetta Trowbridge Dorothy Tucker Jenelle Utter Cathy Vanlaningham Daniel VanLue Eloyce VanLue Frances VanLue Clayton Varney Shawn Varney John Voland Thomas Voland Michael Wais Harold D. Waldrop Donald Walker Gerric Walker Carroll Walton Beverly Warren Jackie Warren Mark Warren Alex Weaver

Jeremy Weaver Mary Weaver Royce Weaver Jeffrey Webb Ruth Weikart Diane Weisser Josephine Wells Marilyn Wesseling Ronnie West Morris Weyand Ann Whetten Naomi Whitaker Michelle White Mary Wiggs Gerald Williams Linda Wilson Judith Wolfe Nancy Wood Richard Workman Timothy Yeager Daphne Yoh Virgil Zimmerman

“Our families serving your family with professionalism, compassion and care.”

Pierceton and Warsaw Michael and Tracy Wilson

As we start the New Year, it is with sincere reverence that we pause to remember those friends and family members who have gone before us. We dedicate this memorial to them.

Owen Family Funeral Home

and us. that th am fam

Accidents/Incidents

Kosciusko County

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

10:46 p.m. Monday, Dec. 26, East Hatchery Road, east of North CR 850E, Syracuse. Driver: Nadia Perez, 37, Holiday Lane 204, Cromwell. Perez was traveling east on East Hatchery Road when she hit a parked, unoccupied vehicle. Perez complained of shoulder pain and was checked by medics at the scene. Damage up to $5,000.

12:18 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 24, North Turkey Creek Road, south of East CR 1000N, Syracuse.

Driver: Nickolas G. Clark, 17, East Wawasee Lane, Syracuse. Clark’s vehicle slid on the ice and hit a sign. Damage up to $2,500.

10:09 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 22, East McKenna Road, west of North CR 650E, Warsaw. Driver: unknown. An unknown driver was traveling on East McKenna Road when the vehicle left the roadway, hitting a NIPCSO utility pole, a chain link fence, and white vinyl fence. The NIPSCO pole was snapped completely off near its base. A witness said they saw a male driver walk away from the accident. Damage up to $25,000.

9:08 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21, East Armstrong Road, near North CR 300E, Leesburg. Driver: Catherine L. Leadford, 26, East Epworth Forest Road D., North Webster. Leadford’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage up to $2,500.

6:01 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, South SR 15, south of West CR

950S, Warsaw. Driver: William C. Hood, 47, East May Lane, Leesburg. Hood’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage under $1,000.

11:12 a.m. Friday, Dec. 16, 106 S. Higbee St., Milford. Driver: Lisa A. Storms, 59, North Harrison Street, Syracuse. Storms was backing her vehicle when she hit a parked, unoccupied vehicle. Damage up to $5,000.

5:21 a.m. Friday, Dec. 16, North SR 15, north of West CR 1350N, Milford. Driver: Emily J. Stutzman, 22, West Hepton Road, Nappanee. Stutzman was traveling north on North SR 15 when her vehicle hit a guardrail on the west side of the roadway. Damage up to $2,500.

4:24 a.m. Friday, Dec. 16, North SR 15, north of West Plum Street, Leesburg. Driver: Jorge E. Garcia, 21, Oakdale Street, Shelbyville, Tenn. Garcia was traveling north on North SR 15 when his vehicle left the roadway, spun around, and hit a tree. Garcia complained of head pain and had a small laceration on his hand. He was checked by medics at the scene. Damage up to $25,000.

North Webster

Officers with the North Webster Police Department investigated the following incident: Incident

1:52 a.m. Friday, Dec. 23, 100 block East Epworth Forest Road, North Webster. Victoria VazquezHernandez reported damage to items in her home. Value: $710.

Warsaw

Officers with the Warsaw Police Department investigated the

following accidents: Accidents 4:58 p.m. Monday, Dec. 26, SR 15, near West CR 300N, Warsaw. Drivers: Rosa Moyotl, 23, East CR 200N, Warsaw; and Kevin P. Fisher, 21, EMS T34 Lane, Leesburg. Moyotl was traveling south on SR 15 when she ran a red light, hitting Fisher’s vehicle as he was making a left turn. No injuries were reported. Damage up to $10,000.

6:33 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23, North Detroit Street, south of Jalynn Street, Warsaw. Drivers: Kendyll B. Landis, 17, South Sunrise Circle, Warsaw; and Teresa K. Boyer, 56, East Circle Drive South, Syracuse. Landis was traveling south on North Detroit Street when her vehicle veered to the right, hitting Boyer’s vehicle. Damage up to $5,000.

4:18 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23, North SR 15, near Jalynn Street, Warsaw. Drivers: Robert D. Rosa, 31, Ridge View Drive, Dundee, Fla.; and Mary A. Hurley, 70, EMS B36B Lane, Warsaw. Rosa was traveling south on North SR 15 and was preparing to turn when his vehicle slid and hit Hurley’s vehicle. Damage up to $5,000.

Jail Bookings

Kosciusko County

The following people were booked in Kosciusko County Jail: Dec. 27 — Jefrey Wayne Reece, 45, 230 S. East St., North Webster, booked for possession of methamphetamine. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

Dec. 25 — Derek Anthony Tolson, 31, 501 W. First St., Milford, booked for domestic battery. Bond: $6,000 surety and cash.

Dec. 23 — Donald James Jr. Trafan, 23, 102 E. Epworth Forest Road, North Webster, booked for criminal mischief-less than $750. Bond: $600 cash.

Dec. 22 — Rachel Leticia Mullins, 23, 501 Ulrich Drive, Milford, booked for battery. Bond: $6,000.

Dec. 20 — Leonard John Morseau Jr., 63, 1792 N. Black Court, North Webster, booked for possession of methamphetamine and possession of paraphernalia. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

Elkhart County

The following person was booked in Elkhart County Jail: Dec. 16 — Noel Michael Sparks, 50, 13266 N. 200W, Milford, booked on two counts of leaving the scene of a crashserious bodily injury crash, four counts of driving while suspended with prior suspension within 10 years and driving while suspended-resulting in death. No bond listed.

Kenneth Wright arrested after threatening, battering woman

A Syracuse man was arrested after allegedly threatening and battering a woman.

Kenneth R. Wright, 52, 8243 E. CR 900N, Syracuse, is charged with intimidation, a level 5 felony; domestic battery resulting in moderate bodily injury, a level 6 felony; and domestic battery, a class A misdemeanor.

On Dec. 12, a Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office deputy responded to a domestic dispute in Syracuse. Upon arrival, the deputy spoke with a woman, who said she had a verbal argument with Wright. The altercation became physical after Wright allegedly hit the woman in the arm with a broomstick.

According to court documents, when the woman retreated into a home to get away, Wright broke the residence’s front door and shoved her against a washing machine. When the altercation was over, Wright grabbed a shotgun, walked outside, and said, “Call the cops, you are going to see gunfire.”

The deputy noticed a mark on the woman’s left arm, damage to

the front door, and a loaded shotgun in the residence.

Wright denied hitting the woman with the broomstick and pushing her into a washing machine.

On Dec. 14, the woman provided an updated photo of her arm injury, which showed deep bruising that covered a large portion of her upper left arm.

Wright was previously convicted of nonsupport of a child in Kosciusko County in August 2003.

For this case, Wright has already been arrested and released on his own recognizance. He has an initial hearing at 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 5, in Kosciusko Superior Court One.

Schmucker faces several drug charges

A Cromwell man is facing several charges after allegedly being found with methamphetamine and marijuana.

Lyndale Schmucker, 41, is charged with possession of methamphetamine, a level 6 felony; one count of possession of marijuana, a class B misdemeanor; and possession of paraphernalia, a class C misdemeanor.

According to a probable cause affidavit, on Nov. 15 a NET43 officer saw a blue Ford F-150 with an expired registration plate at a gas station in Kosciusko County.

The officer discovered that the vehicle was registered to Schmucker, who was suspended prior and had an outstanding warrant for failure to appear in Kosciusko Superior Court II. The officer saw Schmucker

walk into the gas station. He caught Schmucker looking at him from inside the station while he was pumping gas, so he called other officers to watch Schmucker’s vehicle while he drove away.

The other officers moved in to arrest Schmucker as he was leaving the gas station. Schmucker moved away from the officers toward a trash can, and one of them saw him throw something into it.

Officers found a bag on top of the trash that contained a white

crystal-like substance that fieldtested positive for methamphetamine and weighed 1.8 grams. Another officer arrived with his drug-detecting K9. The officer had him do an outer air search around the truck, and the K9 alerted to the presence of drugs. Officers searched the vehicle and found a glass smoking device with burnt residue and a handrolled “joint” that field-tested presumptive positive for THC and weighed 0.5 gram.

Schmucker told an officer that the glass smoking device belonged to him. He was previously convicted of methamphetamine possession in August 2020 in Kosciusko County.

Schmucker was booked into the Kosciusko County Jail Nov. 15 on a $10,250 surety and cash bond.

Rokita announces $219M in tentative settlements with CVS, Walgreens

Attorney General Todd Rokita has finalized tentative agreements with CVS and Walgreens that will bring $219 million to Indiana to settle allegations against the two pharmacies they contributed to the opioid crisis through their conduct in the distribution and dispensing of prescription drugs. When a recent tentative settlement with Walmart is added, Indiana’s total tentative recovery from the three pharmacies exceeds $278 million.

Indiana is tentatively set to receive $105 million from CVS,

Court News

$114 million from Walgreens and $59.4 million from Walmart.

“The opioid crisis has inflicted unspeakable pain on so many Hoosier families,” Rokita said. “Far too often, pharmacies have contributed to this devastation through their own reckless business practices, and we’re going to keep holding them accountable.”

The tentative agreements with Indiana are part of a tentative national multistate settlement with the two companies. Last month, Rokita announced Indiana expects to receive $59.4 million as part of a tentative multistate settlement with Walmart to resolve allegations that it, too, contributed to the opioid addiction crisis by failing to appropriately oversee the distribution and dispensing of opioids at its stores.

— have agreed to court-ordered injunctive relief that requires the pharmacies to monitor, report and share data about suspicious activity related to opioid prescriptions. This court-ordered injunctive relief will help ensure a crisis like this does not happen again.

Settlement funds are intended to be used to remediate the opioid crisis by supporting such priorities as prevention, harm reduction, treatment and recovery services.

Perennial Star of Bethlehem

This perennial bulb, associated with the birth of Jesus, blooms here in Northern Indiana in April. Being fascinated by paintings of Vincent Van Gogh prompted me to search some history about the star. Also, why is Jesus’ birthday celebrated when astrologists find the bright star in December?

Also known as garden or common star of Bethlehem, grass lily, nap-at-noon, eleven-o’clock lady, star of Bethlehem (ornithogalum umbellatum) is a herbaceous perennial bulb, a plant that invades disturbed areas, meadows, cemetery prairies and sunny to semi-shaded banks of streams and displaces native species. Why is this “star” invading high-quality natural habitats? Basically, because it can.

Star of Bethlehem is native to most of southern and central Europe, northwestern Africa and southwestern Asia and was first introduced into the U.S. as an ornamental plant. This species has been reported escaping into natural areas in all 92 counties of Indiana. But I like it anywhere it appears.

If you have a potted spider plant (or airplane plant, chlo-

rophytum compose), take a look at its flowers — They are very similar! It’s in the same family.

My curiosity can’t wait! When will I see some here? There are the weed wrangles that rip them out by handsful here in Northern Indiana, only to find small grayish bulbs growing closely together. Further, some say they crowd out native species, and I do love native species. My first sightings came in a newly created hosta bed several years ago.

My first impulse was to get rid of them, but I decided to toss them in an empty Campbell soup can. I never gave it another thought, as I was just ready to finish grooming my hostas.

I forgot about them until I found them the next season flowering close to April, growing and blooming into a beautiful bouquet of white flowers. They have appeared since in other areas of wildflowers as well.

If the bulbs live long in the right earth temperatures, a large bulb may grow and may make a very tall spectacle in holiday flowering arrangements from Christmas from bulbs shipped in from warm climates.

Small Claims

Elkhart County

The following small claims have been awarded in Elkhart County Superior Court IV: McArthur Counseling Center v. Alexus Wright, Syracuse, $772.12; v. Carlos Avalos, Syracuse, $687.03

Superior Court III

The following infractions have been filed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Disregarding stop sign — Christopher S. Atz, Cromwell, $160.50

Driving while suspended — Kenneth R. Stanton,

Milford, $185.50

Marriage Licenses

Kosciusko County

The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court Ann Torpy: Lovan-Heaberlin Andrew D. Lovan, 23, Syracuse, and Breighton H. Heaberlin, 21, Goshen McDowell-Henry Thomas McDowell, 26, Syracuse, and Jeanette Henry, 25, Syracuse Navarro-Rodriguez Patrick A. Navarro, 26, Syracuse, and Maria I. Rodriguez, 28, Warsaw

In addition to the financial settlement, CVS and Walgreens — along with Walmart earlier

The payments are structured to ensure critical support in early years as well as sustained resources over time. Most of Walmart’s amount will be paid during the first year; CVS’s payments will be spread over 10 years; Walgreens’ payments will be spread over 15 years. If there is sufficient sign-on, payments will begin during the second half of 2023.

[U.S.P.S 325-840] ISSN 2834-3999 Vol. 61, No. 46

Consolidation of THE MILFORD MAIL (Est. 1888) and THE SYRACUSE-WAWASEE JOURNAL (Est. 1907)

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

102 E. Main St. Syracuse, IN 46567-1119 Phone (574) 457-3666 Fax 888-511-7914

tosh Computers using Digital Technology’s Newspaper Publishing Suite Software and Photoshop software. Ads may be submitted as PDF’s & E-mailed to adcomp@the-papers.com. If you have any questions give us a call and we’ll walk you through it.

By JOYCE ARLEEN CORSON, Guest Columnist and Master Gardener

Huge fourth quarter helps Warriors overcome Central Noble

the third quarter in what was a slugfest.

For three quarters, the boys varsity basketball team was deadlocked, but the Warriors caught fire in the 4th quarter, defeating Central Noble 55-47, Wednesday, Dec. 21, at Central Noble High School.

Both teams shot well in the first quarter, trading baskets throughout the first stanza. The Warriors took a 15-14 lead into the second quarter.

It was really a tale of two different quarters, as each team struggled to score in the second quarter. Central Noble took a 20-19 lead into the halftime break.

The Warriors shot 34.8% from two and a respectable 37.5% from three while Central Noble shot 40% from two and 25% from three during the first half.

Both teams continued to match each other throughout

The Warriors erupted in the fourth quarter, outscoring Central Noble 25-14. The Warriors hit seven threes on the night and shot 64.7% from two and 57.1% from three during the second half. There were seven lead changes and five ties throughout the game.

Junior forward Collin Ziebarth led the Warriors with 16 points. Ziebarth shot 50% from two and 66.7% from three.

Sophomore guards Maddux and Myles Everingham each contributed 12 points. Both guards were efficient from the field.

Myles Everingham really got his teammates involved, leading the team with six assists.

Ziebarth added three assists.

Senior center Collin Roberson contributed seven points and led the team with five rebounds.

Next game: 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 30, Holiday Tournament at Wawasee High School.

Warrior wrestling defeats Concord

The Warrior varsity wrestling team defeated Concord 6021, Wednesday, Dec. 21, at The Hardwood Teepee.

Kaleb Salazar, 106, pinned

Concord’s Logan Burg in 1:50. Colten Coburn, 113, won by forfeit. Cameron Senter, 120, pinned Concord’s Joe Borkholder. Titus Taylor, 132, also won by forfeit.

Logan Stuckman, 138, pinned Concord’s Bryson Brosamer.

Ethan Rodriguez, 145, pinned

Minuteman wrestler Jaxon Weimer.

Hunter Miller, 152, made quick work of Concord’s Drew Trigg, pinning him in 1:27. Gavin Malone, 170, made even quicker work of Minuteman

Basketball

wrestler Ben Harris, pinning him in just 0:27. Cameron Zimmerman, 182, pinned Concord’s Daniel Sanchez in 1:40.

Next match: 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, Al Smith Invitational at Mishawaka High School.

Roundup

JV boys basketball — Dec. 21 defeated Central Noble 44-33.

Next game: 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 30, JV Holiday Tournament at Wawasee High School.

JV girls basketball — Dec. 21 lost to Central Noble 43-38. The JV Lady Warriors were led by Kylie Perkins

with 14 points and Emerson Krull with 10 points.

Next game: 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28, JV Holiday Shootout at Plymouth High School.

Wrestling

JV wrestling — Dec. 21 versus Concord. Individual results: Jeremiah Riffel pinned C.J. Barnett; Dawson Bahmer pinned Olivia Hill.

Lady Warriors come up short at Central Noble

The Lady Warrior varsity basketball team came up short at Central Noble, 52-27, Wednesday, Dec. 21.

Central Noble was hot right out of the gate, taking a 21-5 lead into the second quarter. Central Noble led 31-12 at halftime.

The Lady Warriors played very competitively throughout the third and fourth quarters. They just couldn’t overcome their first-half deficit.

Sophomore guard Mackenzie Hackleman led the Lady Warriors with 15 points.

Next game: 11:45 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28, versus Huntington North in Holiday Shootout at Plymouth High School.

Area art teacher believes everyone has a creative side

Ringler has three of her paintings on display at the Nappanee Art Center.

“I believe everybody has a creative side, whatever that might be,” stated Cheryl Ringler, Syracuse. “Not everyone will excel in painting or drawing. However, you never know until you try.” Ringler is a painter and art teacher.

“I’ve always been into art. I doodled as a kid. Both of my parents are artistic. Later in life my father entered his artwork at an art show in Nappanee in the ’60s. Art has always been my favorite class in school. I made A’s without even having to work at it.”

Ringler calls herself a self-trained artist. “I’ve always been able to draw. But I never picked up a paint brush until 12 years ago. Although I never took any college courses, I’ve learned a lot from area art classes.”

While she was taking art classes from Marilyn Copeland in North Webster, Ringler learned watercolor. Now she also does pen and ink drawing and acrylic painting.

She has also taken some lessons from Terry Armstrong at his studio in Warsaw. “Terry is very gifted in creating abstract backgrounds with realistic main subjects. I’ve always struggled with abstract painting. I am learning to incorporate abstract backgrounds with my realistic subject matter.”

Ringler has taught fall leaf painting in both Columbia City and the Nappanee Art Center. “I love painting anything God created. My husband Doug and I were in northern Michigan close to the lakeshore. I spotted a pretty crimson leaf with interesting shadow formations around it. I snapped a quick picture of it and forgot about it. Later I pulled it back up and made a painting out of it.”

She believes painting is very therapeutic. “When I first started teaching art, I was going through a traumatic time in my life. When I was focusing on my artwork, all the tension melted away. I noticed my students were able to forget their problems through creating, too.”

Ringler believes artists learn to focus on colors and details. “Now I’ll see a sunset and say to myself, ‘That’s a sunset with quinacridone gold highlights.’ I see all the nuances and shades.”

She encourages people to pick up a paintbrush. “It’s only when a person tries that they will know whether they have a talent or not. My friend had never picked up a paintbrush and was pretty skeptical about her ability. After taking one of my classes, she left with a beautiful piece of art.”

Competitive art does not really appeal to Ringler. “I’ve entered art at Honeywell in Wabash and the Elkhart County 4-H Fair. And I’ve placed. I’ve also entered a few international shows. But I do artwork for my own pleasure mostly.”

Like many other artists, memories are part of her artwork. “One of my favorite creations is a painting of a wren. I remember seeing my grandma placing bread crumbs on her outside window ledge to feed the wrens. I do my best work creating paintings where I have some emotional attachment.”

Those interested in seeing her “Agape Art” album can turn to her Facebook page: Cheryl Ringler. She and Doug are building a new home, a barndominium, with a new indoor art studio. Ringler is looking forward to teaching students from her home this coming spring.

North Webster Community Public Library —

Paws to Read returning to library in January

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

The Adult Winter Reading Program has begun. Adults 18+ can earn drawing tickets for great prizes by doing any number of the following activities: reading, doing word puzzles, completing DIY crafts and attending library programs.

Participants earn a drawing ticket for every 100 pages they

read, for every puzzle completed in the library provided “Challenge Packets,” for each DIY craft completed (also provided at the library) and for each library sponsored program attended during the dates of the reading program.

Participants have a number of opportunities to win prizes as the library will be doing drawings during both January and February, plus a drawing for the grand prize in early March. Registration has already begun, so sign up today and start reading.

Adult Events

The Glean Team, 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 4. This experienced genealogy team is available to help with any genealogy or research questions.

Teen Events

Creative’s Corner, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6. Use your imagination and create something extraordinary. This is also the last day to enter the

Teen Art Contest, so make sure to have all submissions ready to turn in by Jan. 6.

Youth Events

Paws to Read will be returning to the North Webster Community Public Library at 5:15 p.m. Mondays and 4:15 p.m. Thursdays in January and February. Sign up for a 15-minute appointment to read to a registered

therapy dog in a fun and relaxed environment. Registration is required in advance. Sign up in person or at (574) 834-7122 or cervin@nweb.lib. in.us.

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

Bridge Results

North Webster Bridge Group

The North Webster Bridge Group met Tuesday, Dec. 20, and Thursday, Dec. 22, at the Senior Primelife Enrichment Center in the North Webster Community Center. Winners Tuesday were Dick Sutton, first, and Kay Sutton, second. Thursday winners were Sam Salisbury, first, and Jean Cowan, second.

It

Recycle Your Items In The Classifieds

happened in Milford … 40 years ago

Stanley Price opening new garage on south side of Milford

10 YEARS AGO, DEC. 26, 2012

Ron Baumgartner, publisher of The Papers Inc. in Milford, recently presented a clock to Barb Walter, commercial printing account executive. Walter earned the clock by achieving $1 million in commercial printing sales during 2012 for The Papers.

There’s a lot of interesting trivia out there, and one piece of it came to light last week after the awful tragedy that occurred in Newtown, Conn. In the small state of Connecticut, there’s a city on the coast named the same as our town. It’s a bigger city than our Milford, however. More than 50,000 people live there. Thirty-seven miles northwest of Milford is a smaller town, also with our name: New Milford. New Milford is a smaller city of about 28,000.

20 YEARS AGO, DEC. 25, 2002

Joshua A. Brown, son of Scott and Sandra Brown, Milford, recently enlisted in the U.S. Army’s Delayed Entry Program

and will report for active duty Aug. 23, 2003. The Wawasee High School senior is scheduled to take basic training at Fort Benning, Ga., and advanced individual training at Fort Gordon, Ga.

Milford kindergarten students in Melissa Possell’s and Cherie Sweatland’s classes made decorations for a Christmas tree located in the Milford Floral and Gift Shoppe window. The children made paper rings and wreaths from pipe cleaners and beads. Owner Cheryl Havens says she wanted the children to know what it was like to decorate an old-fashioned Christmas tree. Havens even supplied the materials.

30 YEARS AGO, DEC. 23, 1992

The Milford eighth-grade boys’ basketball team won its first game of the year Dec. 15, a 43-36 win over Marshall. Jason Weaver led the winners with seven rebounds, seven steals and 18 points. Jeremy Olson had two assists and Jamie Beer

added seven rebounds.

The winners have been announced for the Milford Home Decorating Contest sponsored by Celebrations Floral and Gift Shoppe on Main Street. Taking first-place honors and presented with $25 and a large wreath were Larry and Jeanine Powers, 210 W. Section St. Second place ($15 and a medium wreath)

went to Maxine McCreary, 204 S. East St.; and third-place winner of $10 and a small wreath was Wayne Richardson, 306 S. Main St.

40 YEARS AGO, DEC. 29, 1982 Bobi’s Shear Success, North Main Street in Milford, is now open for business and ready to serve customers. Owner Bobi Doll previously worked four

years in a North Webster salon and has redecorated the inside and outside of the previous barber shop in Milford. The new shop offers pleasant surroundings as well as stylish designs for all types of hair.

Marion Deeter, Milford resident, received one of the best Christmas gifts from his daughter-in-law, Phylis Thomas — an

Lutheran Kosciusko recognized for excellence in infant and maternal health

Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital was recognized Thursday, Dec. 8, by the Indiana Hospital Association, in partnership with Governor Eric J. Holcomb and State Health Commissioner Kris Box, M.D., FACOG, for their commitment to infant and maternal health at the third annual INspire Hospital of Distinction recognition program.

INspire, funded by the Indiana Department of Health’s Safety PIN grant, was developed to implement the delivery of best practice care for Hoosier moms and babies and recognize hospitals for excellence in addressing key drivers of infant and maternal health.

Lutheran Koscisuko earned a Hospital of Distinction recognition based on implementing best practices in six key areas, including infant safe sleep, breastfeeding, tobacco prevention and cessation, perinatal substance use, obstetric hemorrhage and maternal hypertension.

“Our hospital team is committed to ensuring the best health and outcomes for mothers and babies in our community,” said Lynn Mergen, CEO of Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital. “We are honored to be recognized for the diligent work of our staff to educate and provide quality care in our Birthplace and beyond.”

It happened in Syracuse ... 50 years ago

“Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital’s dedication to quality improvement in maternal and child health is truly inspirational,” said Brittany Waggoner, IHA Maternal and Infant Quality Improvement Advisor. “Despite the challenges our Indiana delivering facilities are facing today, they remain committed to creating a highly-reliable obstetric care system for moms and babies across Indiana.”

The Indiana Hospital Association serves as the professional trade association for more than 170 acute care, critical access, behavioral health and other specialized hospitals in Indiana.

American Flag that was flown over the nation’s Capitol Building at the request of Senator Dan Quayle.

Stanley Price will soon be opening a new garage on the south side of Milford outside his home on SR 15. The garage is just now being built. Price said he plans to continue his custom mechanical work done in his garage behind his house in the new structure.

50 YEARS AGO, DEC. 27, 1972

Harry Schultz will be officially sworn in as Milford’s clerk-treasurer during a special meeting of the town board tonight (Wednesday). Schultz’s duties will begin on January 1. A native of Milford and retired field auditor for Union 76 oil company, he replaced Mrs. Doris Wolferman who resigned.

The children of Homer and Marguerite Burke of Waubee Lake are honoring their parents with an open house celebration.

It will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 31, in the Bethel Church of the Brethren at the corner of Catherine and East streets in Milford. The celebration is in honor of the Burkes’ 50th wedding anniversary. The couple was married January 1, 1923, in New Orleans, La.

Area golfers plan trip to Bahamas

10 YEARS AGO, DEC. 26, 2012

Katie and Travis Funk, Syracuse, are the parents of a daughter, Emma Juliet, born at 8:01 a.m. Dec. 13 in IU Health Goshen Hospital.

With barely a dusting of snow, Marci Gill and her brother Grant, children of Randy and Karen Gill, Syracuse, took advantage of the clear sidewalks to create chalk drawings Saturday.

Jeremy and Nicole Miller, Syracuse, are the parents of a son, Teagan Andrew Miller, born at 7:55 a.m. Dec. 21 in IU Health Goshen Hospital.

20 YEARS AGO, DEC. 25, 2002

Syracuse Firefighters were recognized recently for their service to the department.

Kevin Grindle, firefighter of the year; Jeremy Caudill, most improved firefighter of the year; and Jeff Galloway, Bob Elson and Ed Batesla all received recognition as retired honorary members. Galloway had eight years of service, Elson, six years of service and Batesla, 24 years of service.

Mr. and Mrs. Gene Barkdull of Daleville and Dewart Lake, Syracuse, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with an open house for friends and family 1-5 p.m. New Year’s Day, Jan. 1, 2003.

Mrs. Paula Markley received a quilt made by Mrs. Jeanette Woods that was raffled off by Syracuse Elementary School. Both women teach at Syracuse Elementary School.

30 YEARS AGO, DEC. 23, 1992

Thom Combs, owner of CRS Crow Roofing and Sheet Metal, recently moved his family to the Syracuse area from Fort Wayne. The roofing company was moved into its new quarters on Pearl Street four years ago.

A new nursing director is at Miller’s Merry Manor, Syracuse. Lisa Brugh, RN, BSN, comes to the Syracuse nursing home from Miller’s in Warsaw, where she was a unit manager on the skilled wing. She has over eight years of experience in long-term care.

40 YEARS AGO, DEC. 27, 1982

Syracuse third graders Justine

Desatelle, Jason Morrow, Sam Huffer, Tonya Swartzendruber, Jason Brown and Tiffany Titus were among the students who created a pilgrim village during their studies of early America.

The Board of Directors of the State Bank of Syracuse recently announced the promotion of Susan Hulley to the position of customer service officer.

Judith Anne Knudsen, Syracuse, is among 204 students who were named to the dean’s list for the 1982 summer session at Indiana University.

50 YEARS AGO, DEC. 27, 1972

Nearly 100 area golfers are making plans to spend eight days on a golf trip to the grand Bahamas. The manifest of those who will make the trip: Mr. and Mrs. Nelson Auer, Delores Barzano and Polly Bonar, Mr. and Mrs. Homer Beach, Mr. and Mrs. William Beemer, Mr. and Mrs. David Borman, Eloise Carlson, Joan Gray and Harriet Blocker, Mr. and Mrs. Forrest Cook, Mr. and Mrs. Je Curtis, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Darr, Jo Ann Dye and Bertha Gagozy, Mr. and

Mrs. Everett Graff, Mr. and Mrs. James Griffin, Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Haas, Mr. and Mrs. Rex Hagen, Sara Hively and Betty Kratzsch, Mr. and Mrs. Butch Hossinger and John Mellinger, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel James, Mr. and Mrs. Gene Kay, Mr. and Mrs. John Kimble, Mr. and Mrs. T. L. (“Bud”) Kline, Mr. and Mrs. Gerold Kline, Mr. and Mrs. John Kroh, Mr. and Mrs. John Law, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Mick, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Miller, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Milner, Mr. and Mrs. James Newcomer, Mr. and Mrs. Gene Price, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Prickett, Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Ralph, Mr. and Mrs. Norman Rolf, Mr. and Mrs. Howard (“Pee Wee”) Sellers, Mr. and Mrs. James Short, Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Silveus, Mr. and Mrs. Merl Smith, Mr. and Mrs. John Stack, Mr. and Mrs. Harley Tillapaugh, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Versey, Mr. and Mrs. Don Wogomon, Mr. and Mrs. Dave Wright, Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Herbison, Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Herendeen, Mr. and Mrs. Bob Danner, Mr. and Mrs. Bob Collier and Mr. and Mrs. Frank Mauck.

It happened in North Webster ... 10 years ago Solid Force crowned volleyball league champion

10 YEARS AGO, DEC. 26, 2012

Solid Force was crowned champion of the 2012 North Webster Adult Volleyball League. Solid Force, the No. 2 seed, needed three games to get past top seed Orville Ready Blockers 25-17, 25-27, 2521 Monday evening at North Webster Community Center. The team is sponsored by the North Webster American Legion Post 253.

Sons of the North Webster American Legion Post 253 gave a donation of $718.50 to the North Webster Food Pantry. J. B. Routh accepted the check from Craig Streby, the Legion’s past commander.

20 YEARS AGO, DEC. 25, 2002

Jeanette Bockman was hostess for the annual Christmas party and gift exchange of North Webster Past Chief’s Club held Dec. 11. A carry-in supper was served with chicken casserole as the main dish. Tables were decorated with candles, greenery and silk flowers. Items were brought for North Webster Food Pantry in lieu of a Christmas gift exchange.

The large metal slide that once identified Adventureland has been dismantled to make way for a new restaurant and strip mall in North Webster. Dan Thystrup, co-owner of the now defunct amusement park, confirmed late last week that a deal was struck with Dan Gregory, who owns several Subway restaurants in Kosciusko County, including those in Syracuse and Milford.

Appropriation transfers, encumbrances, salaries and meeting dates and times were on the agenda for North Webster Town Council members Monday afternoon. Additionally the reappointment of Kay Andrews as town council president, which was not on the agenda, also received board action.

30 YEARS AGO, DEC. 23, 1992

Dixie Pryor led the Lakeland Kiwanis Club as they sang Christmas carols at their meeting Monday, Dec. 21, at North Webster Church of God.

A Christmas Eve family service, especially for children, will

be at 7 p.m. at the North Webster United Methodist Church. There will be candle lighting, storytelling, and music. A formal candlelight service with special music is planned for 11 p.m.

40 YEARS AGO, DEC. 29, 1982

Youngsters ages three, four and five years old, who are students at the Jillburg-Ingold Learning Center, North Webster, made all the decorations for the center’s Christmas tree. The symbols were constructed from felt and highlighted with glitter.

Donations were made to the North Webster Charity Fund when Lakeland Women’s Club met recently at North Webster United Methodist Church. Susie Williams, president, was in charge of the business session. Beverly Marsh and Dorothy Howard were welcomed as new members.

Group singing was led by Becky Ertel, assistant hostess, Dec. 14 when Sugar N’ Spice Club members met at the home of Judy Miniear. Devotions were

presented by Wahnema Hardin. Judy Wagner and Diane Bowman were welcomed as new members. Janet Kiser, vice president, led the club prayer, creed and pledge to the American flag were repeated in unison. Mrs. Kaiser gave the treasurer’s report.

50 YEARS AGO, DEC. 27, 1972

Dr. Arden Walgamuth’s house was moved. Walgamuth is a wellknown dentist, and his house served as his dental office for the past 8 1/2 years. The house was located on SR 13 in North Webster, just south of the Rinker store, was moved last Tuesday to its new location on Washington Street, just north of the office of Dr. G.W. Stalter, a North Webster physician. The lot from which the building is being moved is owned by Thurman E. Rinker and will be used, at least for the time being, as a parking area for Rinker store customers.

Mr. and Mrs. David Kelsey of R1, North Webster, are the parents of a daughter born last week at Goshen General Hospital.

Ivy Tech Fort Wayne/Warsaw names new dean

Ivy Tech Community College

Fort Wayne and Warsaw has selected Deb Pitzer as the dean of the school of manufacturing, engineering and applied sciences. Along with leading and overseeing faculty and programs, she’s hoping to set new standards and create a culture of appreciation for all employees and students.

“I’m really excited because I come from the school, and I’m hoping that knowing what I know from my job as department chair, I can help students and faculty better from this position,” says Pitzer. “I want them to know they can come to my office whenever they need any help or just need someone to sit and listen. My door is open.”

Pitzer has worked with Ivy Tech full-time since 2006, filling a variety of roles including department chair of machine tool technology and assistant professor. She also served the college as adjunct faculty for three years before that. Prior to lending her skills to the college, she worked for nearly 10 years as an advanced manufacturing engineer at General Electric.

“I’m excited to have Deb as our newest dean,” says Heidi Fowler, vice chancellor of academic affairs. “She brings 17 years of experience as an Ivy Tech department chair into the role, and I can’t wait to see how she shapes and leads the school of advanced manufacturing, engineering and applied sciences.”

Pitzer earned her Master of Business Administration at Indiana Wesleyan University and her Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering technology from Purdue University Fort Wayne. She holds several certificates from the National Institute of Metalworking Skills including Drill Press Skills; Manual Milling Skills; Job Planning; Benchwork and Layout; and Measurement, Material and Safety.

Goshen Center for Cancer Care appoints new director of clinical research

Ebenezer Kio, MD, has been appointed director of clinical research at Goshen Center for Cancer Care. He coordinates strategic planning, development and compliance oversight for the center’s clinical research program. He also continues his clinical practice in medical oncology.

“Dr. Kio’s role as principal investigator and clinical research coordinator has brought innovations in cancer treatment that lead to better care worldwide,” said Randy Christophel, Goshen Health president and chief executive officer. “We value his commitment to drive our cancer studies program to develop future treatment modalities that lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life.”

Kio is a board certified, fellowship trained medical oncologist and hematologist. He joined Goshen Center for Cancer Care

in 2009 and leads the medical oncology lung cancer program.

Kio also specializes in drug therapies to treat cancers of the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach and pancreas.

“Our portfolio of studies is one of the most sophisticated in the

region and supports research in most major types of cancer,” said Kio. “The clinical trials at our cancer center give patients early access to groundbreaking drugs and therapies that aren’t available anywhere else.”

More than 30 clinical studies are currently underway at the cancer center. They focus on a new generation of drug therapies for patients with site-specific cancers, such as lymphoma, melanoma, breast and lung cancer.

Kio earned a Bachelor of Medicine from University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria. He received the Amgen Fellowship Award in hematology and oncology from Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, S.C. His research and clinical interests include small and non-small cell lung cancer, non-Hodgkin lymphoma and phase 1 clinical trials across multiple tumor types.

KEYS grant deadline is Jan. 15

Kosciusko Endowment Youth Services is accepting grant applications for educational programs and projects impacting students in Kosciusko County. The upcoming application deadline is at 4:30 p.m. Jan. 15.

KEYS is a youth philanthropy program of the Kosciusko County Community Foundation. It is comprised of 20 students who attend the four high schools located in Kosciusko County: Lakeland Christian Academy, Tippecanoe Valley, Warsaw Community Schools and Wawasee Community Schools. Students are selected to join in eighth grade and remain active members in the program until they graduate from high school.

While in KEYS, members meet once a month to discuss philanthropy and build leadership skills. The students also go

on site visits to local nonprofits to learn, serve or bond as a team. Twice a year, in January and September, KEYS members consider grant applications for educational projects serving Kosciusko County residents. The average grant size is $500, but requests up to $1,000 may be considered. Annually, KEYS awards around $25,000.

“KEYS grant applications should center around innovative ideas that incorporate project-based or experiential learning,” said Terrill Hooks, program officer at the Community Foundation. This can include handson activities, educational games and unique technology. “Get creative!” Hooks added.

Past grantees have been awarded funding for child care and early learning programs, rhythm sticks for a music class,

electric circuit kits, activities for social emotional learning, materials to build a CNC router and more. To view a full list of 202122 applicants and to apply, visit kcfoundation.org/grants/keysgrants or call (574) 267-1901.

Students named to president’s list

The following local students were named to the president’s list of their respective colleges/ universities:

Trine University Leesburg — Jackson Stover Milford — Colten Edgar Syracuse — Jordan Grindle, Carol Haldeman, Mariah Hurst

VanderReyden named to vice president’s list

Jason VanderReyden of Milford, a Trine University student, was named to the vice president’s list for the fall 2022 term. VanderReyden is majoring in manufacturing technology.

To earn vice president’s list honors, an undergraduate student must be registered for 12 or more total semester credit

hours, including graduate courses, with fewer than 12 credit hours at the undergraduate level.

The student must have a semester combined undergraduate/graduate grade point average between 3.75 and 4, with the undergraduate semester grade point average not lower than 3.5.

NOTICE OF SUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION IN THE KOSCIUSKO CIRCUIT/SUPERIOR COURT

121 NORTH LAKE STREET WARSAW, INDIANA 46580 CASE NUMBER 43C01-2212-EU-000196

Notice is given that on December 20, 2022, Kathleen Nave and Dean R. Gephart, II, were appointed Co-Personal Representatives of the Estate of Dean Ronald Gephart, deceased, who died December 9, 2022.

All persons who have claims against this estate, whether or not now due, must file the claims with the Clerk of the Court within three (3) months from the date of the first publication of this notice, or within nine (9) months after the decedent’s death, whichever is earlier, or the claims will be forever barred.

Dated at Warsaw, Indiana on December 21, 2022.

CLERK, KOSCIUSKO CIRCUIT/SUPERIOR COURT Paul A. Stoelting #15655-43

203 N. Huntington Street Syracuse, IN 46567 (574) 457-2000 hspaxlp

NOTICE OF PROPOSED PRECINCT BOUNDARY CHANGES

To the voters of Kosciusko County:

You are notified that the Election Division of the Office of Secretary of State of Indiana has determined that a proposed order by the Kosciusko County Board of Commissioners to change certain precinct boundaries within the county would comply with state law, and that the Election Division has notified the Commissioners that precinct boundaries may be established in accordance with the county’s proposed order. The boundaries of the following existing precincts would be changed by the adoption of the county’s proposed order:

City of Warsaw Precincts: Ward 1 Precinct 1 and Precinct 2 Ward 4 Precinct 1 Ward 5 Precinct 1

Wayne 11

Creation of the following precincts: Ward 4 Precinct 2 and Ward 5 Precinct 2

Elimination of the following precinct: Ward 1 Precinct 4, which was split in to Ward 5 Precinct 2 and Ward 1 Precinct 2.

Any registered voter of this county may object to the county’s proposed order by filing a sworn statement with the Election Division. This statement must set forth the voter’s specific objection to the proposed order, and request that a hearing be conducted by the Indiana Election Commission under the Administrative Orders and Procedures Act (Indiana Code 4-21.5)

The mailing address of the Election Division is as follows: Election Division of the Indiana Secretary of State 302 W. Washington St., Room E204 Indianapolis, IN 46204-2743

Any objection to the proposed order must be filed with the Election Division no later than noon, Indianapolis time on January 3, 2023. A complete copy of the county’s proposed order is available for public inspection and copying in the office of the Kosciusko Circuit Court Clerk and Election Division.

The Kosciusko County Board of Commissioners hspaxlp

$200,000.00 8950-38043-000-0000 ARP HS HVAC/Bldg. Repairs $22,445.00 8950-38044-000-0000 ARP CCS HVAC/Box Truck $100,000.00 8950-38045-000-0000 ARP Dispatch Hardware $48,251.00 8950-38047-000-0000 ARP KCCC Communication Radios $25,000.00 8950-38048-000-0000 ARP Mentone FWAS Radios $29,465.00 8950-38049-000-0000 ARP FM Shelter Security/Laundry $158,874.00 8950-38050-000-0000

ARP HVAC Repairs $67,708.00

Taxpayers appearing at the meeting shall have a right to be heard. The additional appropriation when finally approved will be referred to the Local Government Board of Finance. The Board will make a written determination as to the sufficiency of funds to support the appropriations made within fifteen (15) days of receipt of a certified copy of the action taken.

Michelle Puckett, Auditor Kosciusko County hspaxlp

Ministerial association completes successful year of community outreach, service and fellowship

The Syracuse-Wawasee Ministerial Association just closed the books on a fulfilling year of edifying fellowship, united collaboration and increased community service and outreach.

The association is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit comprised of pastors and other representatives of nearly a dozen churches in Syracuse, Milford and North Webster and various charitable organizations who have aligned with SWMA’s work and purpose.

The association meets monthly, with the various member churches and charities taking turns as host.

Among the organizations presenting monthly progress reports to the membership: Rose Garden Recovery Community, Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County, LITE jail ministry, Kosciusko Cares, the Syracuse and Van Buren Township food pantries and the Bowen Center at Enchanted Hills.

SWMA’s signal project is Compass, a compassion ministry that provides financial assistance for food, housing, utilities and gasoline to the needy in northern Kosciusko County.

Compass operates the highly successful thrift store located at 601 N. Huntington St., Syracuse, formerly run by Saint Andrews United Methodist Church.

All proceeds from the secondhand shop are invested back into outreaches that serve the local community. Compass, for example, disburses an average of $10,000 a month in assistance. The proceeds from the summer months were dedicated to providing an EMT scholarship for the Turkey Creek Fire Department, resulting in a $6,000 award toward training for a firefighter who will commit to serve a set amount of time in the local community.

Pat Park, pastor of The Church in the Heights in Syracuse and SWMA president reelected to serve in 2023, reviewed the year with gratification and gratitude.

“SWMA, with Compass as its face, allows the ‘Big C’ church — the larger body of Christ — to be more visible in our community,” he said.

“One of the highlights was really the growth of the thrift store. Ben Plikerd, a local businessman who owns Brook Pointe Resort and other local establishments, donated a new sign for Compass Thrift Store, making the store more visible and giving SWMA a vehicle to allow the community to contribute to meeting its own needs.”

In summary, Park said, “In 2022 we made strides to expand beyond a focus on community worship and showed more of the practical ministry of Christ, meeting needs in the community.”

The association cemented its place in the business community in February by joining the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce after hearing guest speaker Renea Salyer, the chamber’s former executive director, suggest ways the churches can work shoulder-toshoulder with area businesses.

Some of the association’s outreaches continued throughout the year, such as conducting Sunday afternoon church services at Miller’s Merry Manor, now The Waters of Syracuse, nursing home, with churches rotating duties every month. At its December meeting, SWMA membership voted to purchase

new songbooks for the nursing home.

Other ministries were seasonal, most notably the area’s largest weekly boat-in service on Lake Wawasee, held Sunday mornings from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends. Attendance often numbered in the hundreds of attendees on the Oakwood Park lawn and more than 100 boats anchored around the S.S. Lillypad, from which the service was conducted.

The weekly offerings provided finances to cover the boat-in costs and continue SWMA’s benevolence ministries.

Other SWMA accomplishments in 2022:

• Purchasing, placing and maintaining two Forward Indiana food lockers at Wawasee High School and Turkey Creek Fire Station 1.

• Sponsoring the weeklong community vacation Bible school for preschoolers.

• Conducting community worship services for Good Friday, Easter and Thanksgiving.

• Helping fund Rose Garden Recovery Community, Habitat for Humanity, LITE, Syracuse Food Pantry and other ministries.

• Awarding two scholarships to Wawasee High School seniors to pursue education related to ministry.

• Sponsoring the annual Wawasee Walk, which raised $1,820 for local charities.

• Helping provide meals for the seven-week Strengthening Families program conducted by Kosciusko Cares.

• Donating money to LITE to purchase Bibles for county jail inmates.

• Purchasing, distributing, filling and delivering toiletry totes to local schools.

• Helping promote local seminars, such as a “Perceptions to Reality” weekend workshop at Syracuse Church of God and a “SamWise” training seminar to teach the Judeo-Christian work ethic, also held at Syracuse Church of God.

For more information, visit wawaseecompass.org.

BLANKETS HAVE been delivered to Milford and North Webster elementary schools. In a program nicknamed Operation Blanket, they were delivered by North Webster Community Center elves. Community members generously gave to make this blanket project happen. —o—

FOR THOSE dealing with a bit of cabin fever after the weekend, the Syracuse Public Library offers Youthful Yoga at 9:30 a.m. Mondays and Thursdays. The class will be meeting Thursday, Dec. 29. Knock on the southernmost Harrison Street door to be let in. Yoga offers better mobility and strength for posture. There is no floor work involved in this class. The 30-minute chair yoga class is led by Becky Brower, who has 20 years of experience in Iyengar yoga instruction. —o—

ARE YOU and your kids looking for some free entertainment during the rest of Christmas break? Harvest Coffee in Milford is offering free holidaythemed movies every weekday between now and Jan. 6. Movie time each day is 2 p.m. in the shop’s lower level, located at 207 N. Higbee St.

The schedule includes “White Christmas,” Dec. 28; “Polar Express,” Dec. 29; “Miracle on 34th Street,” Dec. 30; “Home Alone 2,” Jan. 2; “Holiday Inn,” Jan. 3; “The Santa Clause,” Jan. 4; “It’s a Wonderful Life,” Jan. 5; and “Home Alone,” Jan. 6. For further information, stop by or call (574) 658-3066.

STUDENTS AT Wawasee High School found a strange visitor during the last week of school before Christmas break. Buddy the Elf was found napping in one of the hallway display cases, dreaming of Santa arriving in Syracuse!

THE FORMER locations of the Emporium in Syracuse, 301 S. Huntington St., and BC Tile, 416 S. Huntington St., have been sold. According to county property records the former Emporium was purchased by Albert G. Schafer; the BC Tile building was purchased by Albert Gervas Schafer and Ann Marie Schafer Trust. Word has it they plan on rehabilitating the properties.

Many will remember when the Emporium was the location of Bill Cutter Chevrolet and the BC Tile was the home for many years of Thornburg Drugs.

MINI WARRIOR volleyball is starting soon. This is a five-week session designed to help younger athletes learn the basics and fundamentals of volleyball. The hope is to help kids fall in love with the sport while learning beginner skills. Second- and third-graders will meet for 45 minutes, while fourth- and fifthgraders will meet from 5-6 p.m. each Tuesday, starting Tuesday, Jan. 10, at NWCC.

AFTER SANTA brought all sorts of new stuff for young and old alike, many of you may be purging unwanted items. Just a reminder the SyracuseWawasee Historical Museum is always looking for unique items to add to its collection. These items should have some significance to the Syracuse and Wawasee Lakes area. If you have something you would like to donate to the museum, call Jamie Clemons, director, at (574) 457-3599. —o—

MILFORD HARVEST Coffee is offering free student lunches over Christmas break. The menu will vary but the meals will be available weekdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. If you have a large number that you’d like to pick up, call ahead to (574) 658-3066 so they can work on putting it together for you.

After lunch, you’re invited to stick around for

HERE’S AN update for those not on social media regarding Susie the Town Deer. According to her Facebook page, she has been reacclimating well to being a wild deer. Trail cam video and photos have shown at least one handsome young buck interested in her. There’s been some hope/speculation there may be a fawn for Susie in the spring. She also came through the bitterly cold blizzard-like weather this past weekend like a champ.

STAFF AND members of the North Webster Community Center board of directors gathered one evening last week for a holiday meal. NWCC is blessed with a great building and in-house catering to have such an event. Take a look at the new conference area, called “The Webster Room.” NWCC is taking rental reservations for the space. —o—

AFTER MOTHER Nature provided a blustery cold white Christmas, we are fast approaching the end of 2022. And with it, many in the community may be considering their endof-the-year charitable donations.

Don’t forget there are a variety of local organizations who rely on charitable donations to operate. Some you may want to consider include The Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum, Teen Parents Succeeding, Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation, Syracuse-Wawasee Trails and New Hope Pet Rescue, along with many more in the Lakeland region. —o—

KOSCIUSKO COUNTY’S largest children’s business fair has been running strong for many years. This year’s Kids Business Fair is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 18, at NWCC.

The fair is designed to give kids the opportunity to learn about owning and operating their own business and selling a product or service. The students are encouraged to come up with an idea and make it themselves or provide a service to earn money. Parents are encouraged to be lesson givers, supportive helpers and silent partners.

The entry fee must have been earned through the child’s business or borrowed from an investor (parent or an assisting adult) with the expectation it will be repaid in a timely manner. Parents of younger children may sit in their space, but the children are to be responsible for the setup, sales and interacting with the customers. Registration is $10 and registration must be completed by Friday, March 3. Cash prizes will be awarded.

—o—

WITH RECENT factory layoffs, shutdowns, and closings, Rich Beauty Parlor wanted to give back to their community by offering free haircuts. “We know that when people look good, they feel good!” said Brittany Bushong, one of the participating stylists and owner of Rich Beauty Parlor.

The group of ladies sent out the opportunity to their loyal text and email subscribers on Tuesday, Dec. 13, and were planning on opening up the invitation to the public later that evening. However, they actually booked all the availability of haircuts in just four hours.

“We were so grateful to be of service and spread a little self care,” said Bushong about the event, which took place Dec. 17. “Everyone is actively seeking new clients to service and build relationships. The greatest compliment someone can give the salon is a referral. We all take pride in servicing and supporting the small community in Syracuse and surrounding areas.”

the movie at 2 p.m. that was previously mentioned in this column.