FOLLOW THE STAR Don Wilka, board member of the Lakeland Art Association, shows Zentangle-inspired work, “Follow the Star.” The style uses abstract patterns and shapes, where practitioners can “put some patterns together,” said Wilka, until “something just emerges.” Wilka is hosting an egg painting class Thursday, April 10, utilizing the principles of Zentangle.
Text and Photos
By MAKSYM HART Staff Writer
The Lakeland Art Gallery has entered a new chapter in its history, moving to a larger location offering more space, accessibility, and opportunities for local artists and the community.
“We have much more traffic. We have much more wall space to hang art ... We have a huge classroom in the back we did not have before,” said the gallery’s Director Melodie Koher.
The gallery, which operates under the Lakeland Art Association, has been a cornerstone of the local arts scene since its founding in 1993 by then-president Lila O’Connell.
The Lakeland Art Association itself was established in 1957 by a group of local artists led by Fred Olds, with the mission of promoting art education, exhibits and events. Over the years, the association has grown into a local cultural institution, working with various local organizations and participating in community events, like the Village at Winona’s children’s tent and Warsaw’s Sip and Shop.
The recent relocation of the gallery from 302 E. Winona Ave. to 119 S. Buffalo St. was prompted by the sale of its previous building, but the transition has been an improvement. The new space offers more wall space for exhibitions, more traffic from visitors and a classroom for art classes.
Improved parking at its downtown location makes the gallery
advantage of the gallery’s new classroom to teach a sold-old watercolor class. Grateful for the opportunity, she said of
“Thanks to her, there’s a downtown
more convenient for patrons.
“It’s just a building full of possibilities and potentials,” said Koher.
Primarily featuring contemporary artists from Indiana, Ohio and Michigan, the Lakeland Art Gallery welcomes artists from across the country. Currently, the gallery is showcasing works by Sherri Johnson, a former Edgewood Middle School art teacher, and nationallyrecognized artist, Brenda Stichter. Johnson, who also serves on the Warsaw Arts Commission, is hosting a sold-out watercolor class, while Stichter’s distinctive scratch board artwork is a key feature of
the gallery’s collection. Other local artists, including LAA board member and Zentangle-inspired artist, Don Wilka, also show their work at the gallery.
“Everything (displayed in the gallery) is for sale,” said Wilka, who is also teaching a class Thursday, April 10. The gallery’s works, which include a shop and an area reserved for members’ art, show prices ranging from $10 to $3,000.
Looking ahead, the gallery will host its annual Spring Juried Show, opening Thursday, April 17. The competition will be judged by an art professor from Manchester College,
with over $1,000 in prize money awarded across multiple categories.
An award ceremony will take place from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, April 27.
Besides its exhibitions, the gallery is expanding its educational offerings. A jewelry artist will soon open a studio in the mezzanine area, teaching classes on stone setting and working with precious metals.
The gallery also plans to develop its basement space for “dirty art” forms, such as ceramics and stained glass.
A new website is in development to make membership and event information more accessible.
“We always accept volunteers,” Koher emphasized. “Everybody here is a volunteer, including me.”
For those interested in visiting, volunteering, or becoming a member, Koher invites the public to come into the gallery, talk to volunteers and pick up a membership form.
“There’s something for everyone,” Koher summarized.
Community involvement remains at the heart of the Lakeland Art Association’s mission. Volunteers are always welcome to assist with gallery operations and events.
By NATHAN PACE Staff Writer
After making it to the state finals in golf for two consecutive years, Warsaw senior Abbey Peterson could have called it a career for her time playing sports with the Tigers. With a tremendous high school basketball season now behind her, Peterson said she is grateful she was talked into one more challenge.
“I did not play basketball my junior year because I wanted to continue playing golf. I decided to come back for my senior year because some of the girls were telling me they wanted me to come back and that this was going to be a good year for us,” Peterson said. “I believed it too and when I came back, the girls immediately welcomed me back. We had so much fun together during the season.”
While the Lady Tigers finished the season 26-2 and as Class 4A state runners-up, Peterson said it were the relationships that she enjoyed the most.
“I think that was the most memorable experience for me was just being with the girls again and building those connections. Not even making it to the state finals but being able to do that with them,” Peterson said.
The season ended to Lawrence North Saturday, March 1, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in the championship game. While Peterson and her teammates were
& 11, 8 am-5 pm
trying to collect themselves following the defeat, Peterson was caught off guard when she was named the winner of the Patricia L. Roy Mental Attitude Award. Peterson met her parents, Brian and Tracy Peterson, on the court for the award presentation.
“I had no idea I was going to win it. After the game, I was kind of down because the season is over and we lost and not being able to play with the girls again. It just kind of surprised me. Seeing my parents on the floor, I just felt a ton of emotions. I am very honored to be picked for it and represent Warsaw and our community. It just was a great feeling,” Peterson said.
Peterson is confident her time playing golf helped her in basketball and even in her personality for the mental attitude award.
“Part of the mental attitude award goes along with golf because you are ultimately by yourself on the course and being challenged every day. Have to go through the process of overcoming those challenges by yourself,” Peterson said. “I am very good at moving on from mistakes. Golf has a lot of ups and downs. You have to keep playing knowing that the next shot could make up for it.”
Graduation is fast approaching for Peterson, who said she plans to play college golf. She is close to making a college decision soon as has looked at schools as far away as Florida. She plans to become a dental hygienist close to home after college.
She picked up golf from her father, Brian, but did not really get into the sport until her freshman year at Warsaw. While
she is thankful her golf career will continue, she is just as thankful she closed out her high school years with friends on the basketball team after taking time off.
“It was good to me because I did get to the state finals in golf,” Peterson said on taking her junior year off from basketball. “That extra time was good but I did miss playing with the
girls and thinking about all the years we have had beforehand. Just finishing my senior year off with them is what pushed my decision. I didn’t want to have any regrets later on.”
Gospel Echoes Team Prison Ministry 37th annual benefit auction is Friday, April 11, and Saturday, April 12, at the Elkhart County Fairgrounds, 17746D CR 34, Goshen.
There will be a haystack supper, concert, auction and other food. The public is welcome.
There is an open house Friday evening, April 11, with a haystack supper being served from
4:30-7:30 p.m. A Gospel Echoes Teams concert is at 6 p.m. followed by a mini auction featuring specialty items at 7:30 p.m.
An all-you-can-eat breakfast, including biscuits and gravy, pancakes, sausage, and fried mush, is at 7 a.m. Saturday. April 12. Other food is available all day.
The auction begins at 9 a.m.
The auction features handmade
quilts, solid oak furniture, fivepiece and four piece bedroom suites, tables, specialty items, in-home meals, tools, crafts, hand tools (Milwaukee, Dewalt, Makita), collector toys, and a swing set.
Also, during the auction, people may bid on a post-frame building built on your site, grills, a garden shed, aluminum utility trailer, Forest River RV Trailer, NXTGEN Hunting Blind, outdoor furniture and more.
There will be over 300 items and many more coming in for the auction.
Also there will be a bookstore, bake sale, and a variety corner open both days as well as rib dinner tickets, Blue Gill dinner tickets and Honeyville dinner tickets.
Also, there will be food such as ribs, bacon-on-a-stick, burgers, brats, grilled chicken, pretzels, donuts, homemade bread, pies, baked items and more.
Visit its Facebook page for the latest updates. Download brochures and view a current sale bill at gospelechoes.com or call (574) 533-0221.
By PHOEBE MUTHART Staff Writer
Thaddeus Landscaping in North Webster has been in business for four years. Now a member of the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce, a ribbon cutting was held Wednesday, March 26., to honor the occasion.
The owner, Thaddeus Du Bois, is a native of North Webster, having grown up in the “heart of the lakes.” He is a Navy veteran and is married with four children.
He primarily does commercial and residential landscaping. Using rocks, he creates his work thanks to his artistic endeavors.
“I’ve got an art degree,” said Du Bois. “I can do anything from start to finish.”
He is also a fashion handbag designer and sculptor.
Du Bois said with big rocks he can be creative, using so many different kinds of rocks and other supplies, and create anything from a rustic look to a modern one.
Du Bois said if a client doesn’t have an idea, he will ask them what kind of look they are aiming for. He first sits down with
ter,
Pictured from left are Elise Guy, chamber member (holding daugh-
a client to get an idea for what they are looking for.
“I usually ask them what their budget is,” said Du Bois. From there, he develops a sketch of his idea, based on
The deadline is quickly approaching to register for a program that works to increase college attendance among first generation, under-represented students at Indiana University, South Bend.
The Groups Scholars Program provides academic, financial and social support to help students earn a bachelor’s degree. The application deadline for the 20252026 academic year is April 15.
Students accepted to the program at IU South Bend will be engaged in an immersive fiveweek summer experience. Groups Scholars take a free, three-credit summer course studying the history of the Black and Chicano Civil Rights Movements, while also participating in a variety of community-building and college-preparation activities.
Groups Scholars will get a jump-start on college and will receive a summer and academic year scholarship. This includes a $1,000 scholarship for summer 2025 for completing the course and scholarships of up to $500 per year for as long as they stay in the program for up to four years to cover tuition and fees, together with financial aid.
New Groups Scholars will be considered for the Bloss-Halasi Family Scholarship in addition to the Groups Scholarship.
Bloss Groups Scholars must meet all criteria for Groups and are selected based on financial need and GPA. Bloss Groups Scholars receive a minimum $1,500 scholarship annually,
which is renewable for up to three years provided they continue to maintain the renewal criteria. Recipients also receive a $1,400 onetime technology scholarship.
To learn more about the program, its requirements and how to apply, visit groupsscholars.iusb. edu, email sbgroups@iusb.edu or call (574) 520-5050.
what the client wants. Once he finishes the conceptual drawing, he shows the client and tweaks it, if necessary. Next, it is time to get to put the idea into motion and start working on the landscaping project. He usually will match the landscaping with the house or building, “so it blends well,” he said.
He does work not only in Kosciusko County, but nationwide, too,
such as Vermont and other states. A family-owned business, he co-owns Thaddeus Landscaping with his wife, Kira. He also considers Thaddeus Landscaping a Christian business. He is a member of The Indiana Nursery and Landscape Association.
For more information or a quote, call (260) 215-3351 or visit his Facebook page at Thaddeus Landscaping.
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Good Neighbors is a column in which readers share friendly advice. To ask or answer questions, write the Shopping Guide News, Good Neighbors, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542; fax 800-886-3796; or e-mail abias@the-papers.com. Please no phone calls.
Editor’s Note: The Good Neighbors column is for people looking for hard-to-find or old items or for people seeking advice, not for items you can find in a local store or sell through the help of a classified ad. This column will now run every other week.
Redox Gel Increases Blood Flow by 49% when applied to an area in just 15 minutes
Increases speed of Recovery
KitchenAid mixer/old books — Does any good neighbor have a KitchenAid mixer they no longer use? Also, looking for old books to use for decorating. Call (574) 248-0181.
Increase Burn of Fat Fuels up to 33%
Boosts Antioxidant E ciency by 500% to 800% in just 72 hours
Rose hips — I am looking for some Rosa canina (dog rose), which is said to produce larger rose hips. Can trade elderberry, Jerusalem artichoke, goji, etc. Text “rose hips” to (574) 220-0046.
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Grace College’s Marketing Department recently earned nine gold awards and the “Best of Show” for Imprint Materials in the 40th annual Educational Advertising Awards. The competition is the largest, oldest and most respected educational advertising awards competition in the country. Grace was one of more than 1,000 colleges, universities and secondary schools from all 50 states and numerous foreign countries to enter submissions.
“My team and I are incredibly honored in this way,” said Matt
Metzger, chief marketing officer at Grace. “These awards highlight the team’s creativity, dedication to excellence and passion for telling the Grace story. It’s exciting to see our work stand out in such a prestigious and competitive field.”
Judges for the awards consisted of a national panel of higher education marketers, advertising creative directors, marketing and advertising professionals.
Grace’s nine gold awards were in the following categories: poster, Facebook content, logo/letterhead design, imprinted materials, stu-
dent view book, website refresh, publication/internal, podcasts and Instagram content. Grace was also given four silver awards and four merit awards, totaling 17 awards.
Students studying marketing, photography, media arts, communication, journalism and other related majors at Grace have the opportunity to earn internship credit, build their portfolios and obtain hands-on marketing experience on campus through Grace Solutions, a public marketing agency run by Grace’s award-winning marketing office.
In addition to their work promoting the institution, students get to work directly with clients from a broad range of industries, including home building, cabinetry, fitness, education and nonprofit organizations.
“We are passionate about preparing students for what comes next after graduation,” said Metzger. “While many college graduates walk out with little to no practical experience, we are equipping our students with a long list of marketing projects they can speak to when they step into that first interview.”
To learn more about Grace Solutions, visit grace.edu/about/ grace-solutions-marketing/request-info-about-grace-solutions.
The Agnes Pruyn Chapman Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution met at noon Tuesday, March 25, at Pizza Hut East in Warsaw.
The DAR Good Citizen Contest winners were honored at the meeting. There are four winners, one from each high school in Kosciusko County. The four winners are Remington Rickel, Tippecanoe Valley; Penelope Jones, Warsaw; London Hoffman, Wawasee; and Addison Fick, Lakeland Christian.
The chapter winner selected to go on to the DAR state competition in May is Addison Fick.
Regent Kathy Gawthrop opened the business meeting by leading with the DAR opening rituals and reading the president general’s message. She gave the National Defense Report on Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th president of the United States. Although, people may think of him as president
and a World War II general, they may not know of his other interests and hobbies in life. He loved reading as a child and developed a love of history. He read westerns and history books for relaxation later in life. He also painted and loved golf in his retirement years.
Susan Creamer read the secretary’s minutes. Janice Cox gave the treasurer’s report.
Jennifer Simpson gave a report on the Stars and Stripes Project.
All the books have been placed in the school libraries. Maureen Mauzy volunteered to give a presentation of the book at Lakeland Christian Elementary School.
Gawthrop has information on the DAR state conference in May. Simpson was voted to represent the chapter as a delegate.
The group’s next meeting will be at noon Tuesday, April 22, at Pizza Hut. The chapter will be honoring the JROTC outstanding female cadet.
The Watershed Foundation and Zimmer Biomet will present “Sustainability in Action,” an Earth Day breakfast for local leaders. The gathering will take place from 7:30-10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 22 at the Zimmer Biomet Center Lake Pavilion in Warsaw.
This free event is designed to bring together business, government and community leaders to explore how sustainability practices can make a positive impact in the region. Attendees will hear how local organizations are using native prairies, wetland and shoreline restoration, and other
The men’s fellowship of Bethany Community Church will hold its annual pancake and sausage breakfast Saturday, April 5. It will be from 7 a.m. until sold out in the fellowship hall at the church.
The men raise money to do area service projects for individuals.
This is a free-will offering. The church is located one mile east of the intersection of SR 15 and US 6 in New Paris.
Along with the breakfast, the ladies of the church are holding a huge rummage sale from 7 a.m. to noon and then again from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 12.
There will be clothes, furniture, scrap booking punches, storage and kitchenware, puzzles, toys, glassware, books, Christmas décor, home décor and much more for sale.
projects to reduce costs, beautify local communities, and protect natural resources.
The event will feature speakers from:
• Zimmer Biomet
• City of Warsaw
• The Watershed Foundation
Attendees will be furnished a breakfast catered by The Twisted Tiki and will have opportunities to network, exchange ideas, and discover resources to inspire and support their own sustainability efforts.
The event is free to attend, but registration is required by Tuesday, April 8. To secure your spot, visit /tinyurl.com/Earth-DayBreakfast-25
For more information, contact The Watershed Foundation at (574) 834-3242 or admin@watershedfoundation.org.
Dear Editor:
Spot zoning gives a zoning classification that is drastically different from the surrounding area.
• It undermines comprehensive plans with inconsistencies.
• It singles out property owners for benefit at the expense of others.
• It disrupts the physical makeup of the land.
• It could lead to lawsuits.
• It could cast the appearance of corruption if public officials use spot zoning to benefit specific businesses or individuals … and it causes … conflict.
The conflict: Is it fair and just for rural families and historical agricultural land to become neighbors to a 554-acre data center?
Let’s think. Whenever there is a conflict, there is also blame. If you are looking to blame someone or something, who is your target?
Is it the data center? Is it the sellers? In one way or another, we are all connected to technology. And, you can disagree with the property own-
ers, but everyone in has the right to sell or buy property. The monster in this conflict is spot zoning.
Our county’s comprehensive plan clearly states, “Although new growth and development is encouraged within this comprehensive plan, the protection and preservation of existing agricultural land uses within Kosciusko County should also take priority. New development, while beneficial, can create negative impacts on existing agricultural assets, such as drainage and runoff, destruction of prime farmland, and land-use conflicts between new and existing land character.”
Our commissioners adopted this plan. If it is their guide, there is no place for I-3 in the middle of farmland. Did you deviate from the plan because the owners will remain in our community? Will they volunteer, donate and support our charitable organizations?
The life expectancy of this 554acre complex is 10-20 years. With the fast pace of technology, that
number may be shortened. When this complex dies, we will be left with compressed servers and an abandoned concrete complex. What business will reclaim this area? Will more land be rezoned to fill the needs of the data center?
Commissioners, please keep your word and your integrity. Look into alternative building sites, investigate the long-term soil, water, health and environmental concerns and property owners’ tax consequences. Don’t make a decision you, and all of us, will regret for years to come.
If our commissioners vote in favor of this spot zoning, we will not be feeding food to people; we will be feeding farmland to a temporary, massive 554-acre complex.
Sign the online petition. Enter www.change.org/KeepLeesburgRural in your browser. Click the link, complete the form and hit submit. The Area Plan Commission meets April 2. Please take action.
Beth Lamb
Dear Editor:
Picture a 500-acre data center near Leesburg — a digital giant running servers, cooling systems and artifical intellegiance workloads. Tech titans, like Google or Amazon, might build it, drawn by Indiana’s cheap land, water and Midwest grid access. But it’s a power hog, potentially consuming 1,000 megawatts (MW) — enough to light up Indianapolis.
For Hoosiers facing a 20% energy shortfall and steep rate hikes from NIPSCO and the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, this spells trouble.
A hyper-scale data center could demand 2 MW per acre, totaling 1,000 MW — far more than the 50-100 MW of older facilities. Indiana generates 27,000 MW, but coal plant closures and sluggish renewables (wind at 10%, solar at 3%) leave us 20% short. One data center could eat 4% of our capacity, with more facilities sprouting statewide.
For residents, it’s a financial hit.
NIPSCO, serving 480,000 customers, wants a 22% rate hike — $32 more monthly per household — by September. The IURC blames renewable shifts and grid upgrades.
NIPSCO’s also planning 3 gigawatts of gas plants, partly for data centers, passing costs to consumers, while tech firms snag deals or credits.
Indiana’s grid, run by MISO and PJM, is strained. Coal (45% of power) is fading; plants like Merom got reprieves for data center needs.
NIPSCO’s coal outages and gas price swings have already raised bills 33% from 2012-2022, outpacing national trends. A 500-acre data center could tip the scales, risking blackouts as the IURC approves utility spending with little oversight.
Hoosiers suffer most. Low-income families, spending 7% of income on power, face disconnections — 13% lost electricity last year. A growing shortfall and data center boom could worsen this, with no
summer shutoff protections. NIPSCO’s $2 billion renewable plan and $769 million in grid upgrades offer slim relief against rate hikes. The General Assembly favors big tech with subsidies, cutting efficiency programs like Energizing Indiana. This is a bad deal. Indiana shouldn’t sacrifice residents for tech’s experiments. A data center moratorium could assess grid strain and prioritize people over profits. Tech firms should build onsite solar or wind, not just buy credits. The IURC must reject rate hikes, unless utilities prove affordability isn’t sacrificed for corporate gain.
Jobs and prestige from a data center don’t justify plunging Hoosiers into a deeper energy crisis — 20% short now, maybe 25% soon, with soaring bills. Tech can innovate; everyday folks can’t. Indiana’s leaders must decide: boost Silicon Valley or protect residents. I choose the latter, before the lights go out. Reagan Templin
The Kosciusko County Republican Party will be holding its spring fish fry Wednesday, April 2.
The event will take place from 4-7 p.m. at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds in Warsaw.
Both indoor dining and carryout will be available.
The cost per meal for adults is $14; for children ages 5 to 12, $7; and children younger than 5 eat for free.
The Wheels on Fire Cancer Crusaders, a mission of Beaver Dam Church, will be holding its 10th annual “Clays for Cancer” event Saturday, April 26.
The fundraiser will start at 10 a.m. at the Fulton County Gun Club, 3916 N. Meridian Road, Rochester, and continue for as long as there are shooters.
Trap shooting practice, trap shooting games and a 25-target competitive event will allow participants a variety of ways to shoot while also benefiting the Wheels on Fire cancer fund.
There also will be a silent auction for a variety of items, including shells, shooting and
outdoor equipment, with all proceeds going to the cancer fund.
Additionally, the kitchen at the gun club will be open and offering a full dinner menu — including the club’s “Road Kill Chili” — with all proceeds going to the cancer fund.
Over the past nine years, “Clays for Cancer” has raised a total of $43,268.35 to help local cancer patients. The community is invited to turn out and help Wheels on Fire top the $6,594 it raised at the 2024 event.
For more information, call (574) 223-2072 or send an email to fcgc@rtcol.com.
at the Oil Painters of America’s 34th annual National Juried Exhibition of Traditional Oils this year in Bradenton, Fla. Image provided by Steve Creighton.
Local artist Steve Creighton has been notified that his painting “Studio Grouping” has been accepted into the Oil Painters of America’s 2025 34th annual National Juried Exhibition of Traditional Oils to be held in Bradenton, Fla., from May 28 through June 27.
His painting was one of 150 selected from thousands entered
and one of just four selected for exhibition from Indiana. The exhibition assembles the finest display of representational oil paintings by artists from throughout North America.
Creighton has achieved signature member status of Oil Painters of America and is also a signature member of the National Oil and Acrylic Painters Associa-
tion, and a signature member of Indiana’s Hoosier Salon.
He majored in both art and business at Valparaiso University as an undergraduate and continued his art education with graduate art courses at Indiana University. His paintings are held by collectors throughout the country. His studio is in Warsaw.
Manchester University’s spring musical is “The Wizard of Oz.”
Performances are at 7 p.m. Friday, April 11, and Saturday, April 12, and 2 p.m. Sunday, April 13, in Cordier Auditorium at the North Manchester campus, 1380 E. St. Admission is free, but donations are encouraged. All ages are welcome.
“The Wizard of Oz” tells the story of Dorothy, a young girl living on a farm in Kansas. Dorothy
is transported to the magical land of Oz, where she befriends a tin man, a scarecrow and a cowardly lion. The friends must stop the Wicked Witch of the West and help Dorothy return home.
The production is organized and led by members of Manchester’s Theatre Society. Students Gracianne Nohl and Emily Brown are co-directors, with Virginia Gladding and Ali Paul choreographing.
“Our cast is full of amazingly talented students who are passionate about performing arts,” said Nohl. “Everyone is working so hard to make the production the best it can be.”
The Wizard of Oz, written by L. Frank Baum, is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC.
For more information, visit concordtheatricals.com.
Organizations in Kosciusko County were among 20 Indiana counties to receive portions of $1,116,940 in grants to fund 53 lake and stream projects through the Lake and River Enhancement program, according to Indiana Department of Natural Resources Director Alan Morrison.
Grants totaling $643,300 will support 11 sediment or logjam removal projects in 10 counties. Another $473,640 will be used to support 42 projects to combat aquatic invasive plants, involving 52 bodies of water in 13 counties.
Kosciusko LARE invasive aquatic vegetation management grant recipients are:
• Barbee Lakes: $14,000.
• Big and Little Chapman Lakes: $24,400.
• Center Lake: $13,800.
• Dewart Lake: $28,800.
• Pike Lake: $5,000.
• Tippecanoe, James and Oswego: $24,500.
• Waubee Lake: $4,000.
• Wawasee & Syracuse Lakes: $13,000.
• Webster Lake: $34,400.
The grants are funded through the LARE fee paid annually by boat owners when they register their crafts with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
This user-funded program benefits boaters all over the state by allowing for the completion of lake and stream projects that would be difficult for local organizations to fund on their own. Grants are awarded on a competitive basis and local sponsors share at least 20% of the cost.
Funded projects for the planning and removal of sediment and logjams help improve recreational access by removing nutrient-rich sediment and woody debris near inlets or navigational channels, helping prevent bank erosion and the formation of new channels.
These types of projects receive the highest priority for LARE funding and are only funded for projects focused on large-quantity debris removal. Aquatic invasive plant control grants help control or manage aggressive non-native species that can outcompete native species and dominate plant communities.
EMILY LONG PROMOTED TO PAYROLL OFFICER Lake City Bank has announced that Emily E. M. Long has been promoted to payroll officer. In this position, Long is responsible for supporting and maintaining Lake City Bank’s human resource information system as well as managing and tracking all personnel changes. She has been with the bank for four years. Long volunteers with Kid’s Market Inc. and Touch of Life Church. Photo provided by Lake City Bank.
Kosciusko REMC hosted two, live-line demonstrations at the KREMC facility for the fourth graders at Madison and Washington elementary schools. On March 12, these educational demonstrations taught the students the basics of power line safety and also the different career paths available through KREMC.
“The live-line demonstration was built to educate the public, especially the youth of our community.
Teaching electrical safety isn’t just about preventing accidents; it’s about empowering them with the knowledge to protect themselves and others in their day-to-day lives,” said Michael Whitaker, manager of operations at KREMC. The live-line demonstration demonstrates to students what happens when something comes in contact with an electric line, the dangers of grabbing items touching electric lines or putting ladders
Purdue Extension Kosciusko County has announced its partnership with Tippecanoe Valley High School to bring the “Reality Store” program to 120 sophomore students. This innovative educational initiative consisted of six interactive sessions, each lasting 45 minutes, designed to teach essential money management skills. Through “Reality Store,” students engaged in hands-on activities that empowers them to track their spending, create budgets, devise weekly meal plans, and navigate typical monthly expenses. This practical approach not only enhances financial literacy but also prepares students for real life financial responsibilities.
Survey results reveal that an overwhelming 96% of students who participated in the “Reality Store” program reported gaining valuable knowledge that will positively impact their lives.
Key findings include:
• 97% of participants now recognize the importance of having a spending and saving plan (budget).
• 97% intend to set aside funds for emergencies and unforeseen circumstances.
• 95% have committed to making saving a priority in their financial lives.
These results highlight the program’s success in empowering students with the practical skills and knowledge they need to nav-
igate their financial futures with confidence.
Invaluable, real life lessons emerged from students, reflecting the lasting impact of the curriculum. When asked what key takeaways they gained, students shared eye-opening insights, such as:
• Life is hard, and essentials like child care, groceries, and housing are costly.
• I learned how to budget; money doesn’t grow on trees.
• Student loans are a heavy burden, taking a significant chunk of your income.
• Unexpected events can push you into debt.
• The overwhelming number of bills adults have to manage each month.
These candid responses highlight the critical financial awareness instilled by the program, equipping students with a deeper understanding of budgeting, spending, and long-term financial planning. The feedback underscores the program’s success in preparing young people to navigate the complex financial realities of adulthood.
For more information about the “Reality Store” program or to learn how to implement it in your own school, contact Shannon Shepherd, Kosciusko County Health and Human Science Educator, at (574) 3722340 or via email at shephe52@ purdue.edu.
Remember, good financial habits start young.
against electric lines. It teaches students the importance of staying away from downed lines and always assuming an electric line could be active.
This program also shows students the various career paths available in the electric cooperative industry. Employees from different departments, including marketing, customer service, accounting, IT,
and from KREMC’s subsidiary company, Kosciusko Connect, talked about their jobs and the educational paths they took to achieve them.
KREMC encourages local schools to schedule field trips to KREMC’s facility for live-line demonstrations. To schedule a field trip to KREMC, contact Laura Seney at lseney@ kremc.com or by calling (574) 269-0354.
References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075 Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.
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Jan Paul Kizer, 75, Roseville, Calif., passed away Wednesday, March 19, 2025.
Born on May 1, 1949, in Goshen, to Paul L. and Katherine E. Kizer. He was a loving father to Jamie Michelle Archer, Carissa Marie Marrs, Carla Janine Hawthorne, Catherine Louise Coats and Candace Adele Pfarr.
He grew up in Milford and was a 1967 graduate of Milford High School.
Jan worked for many years in the orthopedic field in management positions while living in Warsaw, which is the orthopedic capital of the world. He also worked in sales, but he spent over 20 years as a restoration manager. He also owned and operated Racoon Flats Antique Restoration. He enjoyed collecting and restoring antiques.
Though he did not like being the center of attention, he loved being included in the gatherings that were filled with laughter and shenanigans. He loved to laugh and tried to entertain his family with his dad jokes.
Jan’s hobbies included collecting and refinishing antiques. He loved classic cars, golfing and going fishing with friends and family. He was interested in history and enamored with the 1800’s. He had an extensive collection of canes, pocket knives and ducks. His daughters will remember him every time they see a wooden duck, a pork tenderloin sandwich on a menu or an antique wooden chair.
He is survived by his sisters, Rita Shear and Lois Scott, as well as his daughters, Jamie Michelle Archer, Carissa Marie Marrs, Carla Janine Hawthorne, Catherine Louise Coats and Candace Adele Pfarr. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Ashton Yets, Hailey Archer, Jacob Archer, Micah Marrs, Asher Marrs, Caylee Hawthorne, Maci Hawthorne, Amari Hawthorne, Tyler Coats, Drew Coats, Brayden Kizer, Adelena Pfarr and Emzee Ballard. Jan is also loved by many extended family members who will miss him dearly.
His family finds comfort in knowing his legacy lives on through the lessons and love he shared, as well as the memories that will be cherished forever.
Cardinal Services Client
Today, we mourn the loss of a truly special soul, my brother-in law Scott. He brought joy and love into our lives in ways that words cannot fully express. His unique spirit and resilience taught us all valuable lessons about kindness, patience and the beauty of life.
Scotty faced challenges that many could not imagine, yet he approached each day with a smile and an unwavering determination. He reminded us of the importance of compassion and understanding, and his laughter will forever echo in our hearts.
As we navigate this difficult time, let us celebrate his life and the impact he had on everyone around him. We will cherish the memories we created together and honor his legacy by continuing to advocate for those with special needs.
Rest in peace, Scotty, you will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Scott Anthony VanOsdol passed away Friday, March 7, 2025, in Warsaw.
He was born on Feb. 19, 1965, at Fort Park, La. He was the son of Dr. Thomas Dean Vanosdol (April 10, 1940-March 17, 2024) and Linda Dianne Vanosdol.
Scotty was a client of the Cardinal Services in Warsaw for many years and always with a smile on his face, he loved greeting people, shaking their hand and saying, “How are you doing?” His hugs and laughter were his “specialties.” He shared a home in Warsaw with his two roommate brothers, Matt and Isaiah.
Our family would like to thank the Cardinal Services for being such an important part in his life, and also a very special thank you to his caregivers: Virginia (Missy), Victoria, Chris, Jamies, Francisco and Emma. “He loved you all so much.”
Scotty is being sadly missed by his mother, Linda; brothers, Michael (Bill) and Matthew (Janet); nephews, Mikey (Pam) and Nicholas; niece, Alexis; great-nephews, Ryan and Rowan; and great-niece, Hazel.
There was a celebration of life for Scott at the Cardinal Center for Cardinal clients and immediate family on Friday, March 28.
To sign the guestbook or send a condolence to the family, please visit mchattonsadlerfuneralchapels.com.
Former Owner Of Gropp’s Famous Fish
Herschel V. Wells, 89, Goshen, passed away after a brief illness Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at Goshen Hospital.
He was born Nov. 20, 1935, in Henryville, to Eugene V. and Gertrude (Taylor) Wells. On May 10, 1957, he married N. Charlotte Woods. She preceded him in death Oct. 14, 2024.
Surviving are two daughters, Pam (Rodger) Kelly, Syracuse, and Pennie (Lee) Nisley, Pagosa Springs, Colo.; daughter-in-law, Michelle Wells, Goshen; seven grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and a great-great-grandson.
Along with his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a son, Duane Wells; and brothers, Gary and Larry Wells.
Mr. Wells was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He was a trained electrician and member of the Syracuse Kiwanis for a number of years. He, along with his wife, Charlotte, became owners and operators of several restaurants, including Gropp’s Famous Fish, Syracuse, and several Kentucky Fried Chicken franchises.
Herschel enjoyed athletics and was part of a national softball travel league that won several championships.
The family will have a celebration of his life at a later date. Burial will take place at Syracuse Cemetery.
Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Hayden Maxwell Jones II
Hayden “Max” Maxwell Jones II, 84, Warsaw, died Thursday, March 27, 2025.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.
Ralph B. Rigby
Ralph B. Rigby, 76, died Thursday, March 27, 2025, at IU Ball Memorial Hospital, Muncie.
Arrangements are currently pending at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw.
The Dixie Sternwheeler, Indiana’s oldest sternwheel boat, has been cruising Webster Lake since 1929 and is now preparing for its 96th season in 2025.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this historic vessel has been creating lifelong memories for family and friends for nearly a century.
The Dixie welcomes over 11,000 passengers annually, offering regular tours and hosting special events, such as weddings, birthdays and company gatherings. Its presence significantly contributes to the local economy of North Webster and the surrounding county.
crete and industrial commercial contractor in northern Indiana, has offered to match donations up to $15,000 through the end of April.
By supporting this initiative, contributors can help preserve a piece of Indiana’s maritime history and ensure The Dixie continues to offer scenic tours of Webster Lake for future generations.
Interra Wealth Services is thrilled to announce the addition of Angie Daly as a highly experienced private banker, further strengthening the team’s commitment to providing exceptional, member-centered private banking. Brandon Yoder, director and head of wealth services for Interra Credit Union, shared his excitement about Daly’s role in enhancing the client experience and elevating the Preferred Services department as a leader in private banking within the Goshen community.
Daly brings 26 years of banking experience, having progressed through various roles, including part-time teller, branch manager, AVP and VP. Her extensive expertise, dedication to member service and commitment to banking excellence make her an asset to Interra and the Goshen community. Interra is fortunate to have someone with her depth of experience stepping into the role of VP of Private Banker.
“I am passionate about continuous learning and growth. Surrounding myself with individuals who have achieved success is key to reaching my own full potential,” Daly shared.
Melissa Rose Kuhns
Loren and Wanita (Hochstetler) Kuhns, Bremen, are the parents of a daughter, Melissa Rose, born at 7:06 a.m. March 26, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 8 pounds, 10.5 ounces, and was 20 inches long.
Gwendelyn Rae Young
Alexander and Wanda Young, Milford, are the parents of a daughter, Gwendelyn Rae, born at 8:49 p.m. March 27, 2025, at Goshen Hospital. She weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces, and was 19 inches long.
As The Dixie continues to attract tourists and special event attendees from across the state and nation, local businesses in North Webster, including accommodations, restaurants and retail shops, experience a significant boost in traffic and revenue, embodying the principle that “a rising tide lifts all boats.”
Restoration Project
The Dixie is currently undergoing major repairs, with an estimated remaining cost of $30,000.
To support this effort, Sterling Contracting, a prominent con-
Bob Dailey, president of the Dixie’s board of directors, stated the boat is receiving both general and structural updates to ensure continued safety and enjoyment for passengers. The goal is to complete all repairs and be ready to welcome aboard its first passengers of the season by May 23. How To Get Onboard Contributions to the restoration project will be matched dollar-for-dollar by Sterling Contracting, up to the $15,000 limit, through the end of April. Donors can support this fundraising effort through the following methods: ridethedixie.com; Venmo, @ thedixie or mail to: P.O. Box 674, North Webster, IN 46555.
For more information about The Dixie, contact the Dixie at ridethedixie@hotmail.com.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Daly is deeply engaged in the Goshen community. She has demonstrated her commitment to leadership and volunteerism through active involvement in various local organizations. Her community contributions include serving as a board member and past president of the Boys & Girls Club of Middlebury, chairing the Goshen Chamber of Commerce Ambassador program, volunteering with Junior Achievement and supporting the Humane Society of Elkhart County. Daly is also a coach for the Boys & Girls Club Cheerleading and NIVA Middlebury Volleyball teams and a member of the Elkhart Kiwanis. Daly earned an associate’s degree in business from Indiana University South Bend, which laid the foundation for her long and successful career in banking and finance.
Residing in Goshen with her husband, Mike, and their two daughters, Adriana (14) and Brielle (11), Daly enjoys spending time outdoors, coaching, reading and volunteering in the community.
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Online Consignment Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Thursday, April 3. Pickup 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, April 4 at 426 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. Bid online at bid.kraftauctions.com.
Gene Custer Farm
Equipment Auction
10 a.m. Saturday, April 5. Located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Tractors, combine and heads, planter, tillage tools, sprayer, forklift, tanks. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Grogg Martin Bi-Annual Spring Consignment Auction
9 a.m. Saturday, April 5. Located at Topeka Livestock Auction, 601 E. Lake St., Topeka.
Online Gold and Silver Auction
Bidding open until 6:30 p.m Sunday, April 6. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Gold pieces, silver dollars, silver bars and rounds. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Reed Land Auction
6 p.m. Monday, April 7. Nelson’s Banquet Hall, 607 Nelson’s Parkway, Wakarusa. Property located 2 miles north of Wyatt on SR 331 (Bremen Hwy.) to Osborne Road, then west approximately 1 1/2 miles. Two parcels of 57.38 acres bare land. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Phone Bid Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 8. Property located at 5115 W. 685S, Topeka. Public inspections 3-5 p.m. Tuesdays or by appointment. For bidding and bidding updates, call (260)
The Indiana Department of Transportation is aware of a tolling-related text message or “smishing” scam targeting Hoosiers statewide.
False messages appearing to come from INDOT or tolling service providers alert recipients of a “final notice” regarding unpaid tolls and mention additional fines, late fees, suspension of vehicle registration, vehicle impoundment and further legal action, in addition to a link for payment.
“INDOT does not and will not notify drivers of unpaid tolls via text message,” said INDOT Strategic Communications Director Natalie Garrett. “We urge members of the public to exercise extreme caution before opening suspicious links. The best thing to do is delete these messages.”
Various “smishing” scams have been ongoing since spring 2024. The FBI issued a warning on April 12, 2024, citing more than 2,000 complaints of false text messages representing toll collection services. The agency encourages victims of fraudulent messages to report them to its Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov and to delete the texts.
499-0216 or (260) 499-0093.
Online Only Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m.
Tuesday, April 8. Pickup located in Silver Lake. Tractor with loader, woodworking tools and lumber, machinist tools, pool table, gas pump and globes, jewelry, Longaberger baskets, glassware. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Real Estate Auction
6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 8. Located at St. Isadore Hall, 803 W. Bike St., Bremen. Property located at 4743 Elm Road, Bremen.
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Online Only Auction
Bidding open until 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 9. Pickup located in Shipshewana. Camping supplies, paintings, advertising, furniture, jukebox and records toys, glass ware, sports collectibles. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Carlisle Online Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Thursday, April 10. Pickup located in Warsaw. Pickup located in Warsaw. Bronzes, Native American art, tools, Stradivarius violin, lanterns, vehicle and enclosed
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Annual Spring Collector Auction
8:30 a.m. Thursday and Friday, April 10-11. Located at Polk Auction, 72435 SR 15, New Paris.
Antique Auction 9 a.m. Saturday, April 12. Located at Chupp Auction Center, 890 S. Van Buren St., Shipshewana.
Online Coin And Currency Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Sun-
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day, April 13. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Silver dollars, silver rounds, barber coins, silver certificates, proof sets, coin books, standing and walking halves. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Online Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Monday, April 14. Open house 1-2 p.m. Sunday, April 6. Property located at 5193 N. Bobwhite Drive, Warsaw. Ranch home with full basement on 1 acre. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
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By OLIVIA STARKWEATHER FFA Chapter Reporter
The Warsaw FFA Chapter showcased its skills and leadership at the District 2 FFA Leadership Development Event competitions Friday, March 14, at Whitko Career Academy in Larwill.
These events span a wide range of contests including prepared and impromptu speaking, demonstrations, employability skills, job interviews and multimedia scrapbooks. Over 400 FFA members from local chapters participated this year, making the competition both exciting and competitive.
Warsaw FFA members earned multiple individual and team accolades, including first-place awards in four categories. The chapter was also recognized for Supervised Agricultural Experience proficiency awards, a second place Senior Welding Team finish, and fourth place in the District FFA Chapter Meeting contest.
District Contest Results
First Place
• Multimedia Scrapbook, led by Olivia Starkweather.
• Swine Production Proficiency, Kaytlin Skeans.
• Employability Skills, Kay-
Skeans, Alayna Alexander, Sadie
tlin Skeans
• Novice Animal Science Demonstration, Natalie Hohman and Abigail Gordon.
Second Place
• Agricultural Sales, Kaymen Delph.
• Discovery Plant and Soil Science Demonstration, Alexa Hankins.
• Discovery Creed Speaking, Madelyn Riley.
Discovery Food Science Demonstration, Ashlyn Arnett.
• Premier Leadership Interview, Kaytlin Skeans.
• Novice Agricultural Sales, Sadie Reed
• Animal Science Demonstration, Kaytlin Skeans and Alay-
na Alexander Third Place
• Novice Food Science Demonstration, Sadie Reed.
• High School Quiz Bowl, Makayla Riley, Joseph Goble, Amy Joy, Kade Lackey.
• Star Greenhand Interview, Alayna Alexander.
• Horticulture and Landscape Demonstration, Ariana Bustamante and Khloe Hinojosa.
• Agricultural Mechanics and Fabrication Demonstration, Kaymen Delph.
• Discovery Quiz Bowl, Madelyn Riley, Ashlyn Arnett, Alexa Hankins, Natalie Deuel
Additional Participants
• Extemporaneous Speech,
Kaytlin Skeans (sixth).
• Agriculture Farm and Business Management Demonstration, Sadie Reed (fourth).
• Freshman Creed Speaking, Kade Lackey (seventh).
• Prepared Public Speaking, Makayla Riley (sixth)
Warsaw FFA is led by chapter advisors, Madelyn Kelsheimer and Jacob Riley, who continue to support and coach students in preparation for these events.
FFA continues to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.
