Children can sleep in HEAVENLY PEACE
By PHOEBE MUTHART Staff Writer
Millions of children in the US do not have a bed to sleep in. The statistics are staggering even right here in Kosciusko County. But one nonprofit organization is looking to change that.
Sleep In Heavenly Peace has a chapter in the county, which provides free beds to needy children. All the beds are made by volunteers and delivered to children’s homes.
Sleep in Heavenly Peace was founded in 2012. It is a nonprofit organization that builds and delivers beds to children who do not have one. The organization was founded by Luke and Heidi Mickelson in Twin Falls, Idaho. Since then, 200,000 children have received a new twin bed. There’s over 400 chapters in the US.
In addition, bunk beds are built from scratch and built to last a lifetime.
Locally, a chapter was formed in March of 2024. Becky Kiphart is the county’s chapter president. Michael Webb, her brother, is vice president. The two said they were surprised when they realized many
children in Kosciusko County didn’t have a bed.
“We believe that a bed is a basic need for a child’s physical, emotional and mental support,” Kiphart said.
The beds are made for children ages 3 to 17.
On average, 3% of children in the country do not have a bed.
SHP partners with organizations, churches, businesses, and individuals to build beds at events called “Build Days.”
“When these beds are delivered to a recipient, mattresses, pillows and bedding are all included,” she said.
So far, 330 beds have been delivered in the county in the past year. That is all thanks to faithful volunteers, who have donated 3,479 hours of their time so far.
“It takes 40 to 50 volunteers to make a bed,” said Webb. “Volunteers make the bed in an assembly-line fashion. We start with a bulk of lumber.”
Corporate sponsorships are also available.
The beds are made for children ages 3 to 17.
People may also donate new, twin-size sheets, pillows and
assembly-line fashion.
bedding items. Bedding may be dropped off at Warsaw Community Church, 1855 S. County Farm Road, Warsaw.
Checks can be mailed to: Sleep in Heavenly Peace, P.O. Box 390780, Omaha, NE 68139 and put Kosciusko chapter in the memo line.
There will be several community volunteer builds this year. To register, visit its website. The “Build Days” are all from 8 a.m. to noon at: • Warsaw Community Church, May 3.
• Wawasee Bible Church, May 17, Milford, “but it’s full,” said Kiphart, meaning there’s enough volunteers.
• North Webster, June 14, at the Mermaid Festival grounds.
For future “Build Days or to register,” visit its website or Facebook page.
There is also an Elkhart County chapter.
For more information or to apply for a bed, visit shpbeds.org or its Facebook page or call Kiphart at (574) 527-9289.
BUILDING A BED Beth Lamb helps to put a bed together at a recent “Build Day.” Photo by April Lamb Photography.
WORKING TOGETHER Making a bed recently on “Build Day” are from left Austin King, Hayden Lechlitner and Luke Keim. All photos provided by Becky Kiphart.
ALMOST DONE Sleep in Heavenly Peace makes beds for children who do not have one. Shown is wood that will be used to make a bed for a child. Beds are made onsite outdoors using an
K now Y our n eighbor
Alex Knight is leveling up in game development
By MAKSYM HART Staff Writer
In just a few days, Warsaw native, Alex Knight, will finish his studies at DigiPen Institute of Technology in Redmond, Wash. But he’s already celebrating a milestone that many aspiring game developers only dream of: a game he worked on releasing.
The game, a 3D, action-adventure called “Knight Light,” was developed by a team of DigiPen Institute students, including Knight, who handled programming enemy behavior and AI using Unreal Engine 5’s behavior tree system.
The title blends storybook visuals and eerie dreamscapes with fast-paced action — and no, despite the pun, the name isn’t a reference to its programmer.
“It’s a play on ‘night light,’” Knight explained. “The game is all about a creature of light protecting the dreams of residents in a Victorian-age town.”
Knight grew up with a love for video games, which began with plug-and-play systems loaded with “Pac-Man” and “Galaga” and deepened through Nintendo’s Wii and DS.
In third grade, a friend introduced him to GameMaker Studio, a simple tool that allowed
Knight to create basic games.
“Ever since then I was like, ‘man, I want to this for a living,’” he said.
His path to DigiPen began in middle school when Knight was tasked with writing a letter to his dream job, which was and is worldwide gaming company, Nintendo.
To his surprise, a Nintendo employee wrote back, encouraging him to follow his passion of making games and recommending he attend DigiPen — itself an internationally-accredited institute for computer, animation and game education.
Though programming games is a difficult field involving thorough knowledge of mathematics and computer science, Knight’s enthusiasm pulled him through.
At DigiPen, Knight pursued a Bachelor of Science in computer science and Real-Time Interactive Simulation, a program focused on coding the inner workings of a game. For “Knight Light,” that meant collaborating closely with designers and artists to bring the game play to life.
“Knight Light was the result of a merge between our team and one other,” he explained. “One of the biggest challenges was the amount of time we had, but after a few weeks, everyone
got more comfortable working on the project, and we built momentum.”
Despite a tight timeline, they pushed through, with Knight’s team deciding the game was strong enough to publish through DigiPen on Steam.
The final result? A polished, playable game that’s now being showcased on monitors inside DigiPen. Knight’s family, friends and professors are beaming with pride and so is he.
“We were honestly really happy to be done,” he recalled with a laugh, “but also super proud of how it turned out. I know my family is super proud of me, too. It’s a really cool portfolio piece we can show off.”
Knight plans to pursue a full-time job in game industry, ideally with Nintendo. In the meantime, he’s working remotely with teammates to polish another student game for potential release.
Asked what advice he’d give to aspiring game developers, Knight said, “Practice. Look around for things that inspire you and take note of what makes them special. That way, you can make your own special thing.”
“Knight Light” is now available on the digital game platform, Steam, for free.
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l Tour our beautiful 117-acre campus
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Recycling Depot’s tire recycling event May 12-16
The Kosciusko County Solid Waste Management District’s tire recycling event will be Monday, May 12 through Friday, May 16.
The Kosciusko County Solid Waste Management District Board Director Tom Ganser noted the event, originally set for April, was moved back due to having to get approval from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management.
Another tire collection time at the depot will be from Monday, Sept. 15 through Friday, Sept. 19. A third one could be held right before the end of the year.
Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.
Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.
Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.
Walls Ceilings Window And Door Trim
Walls Ceilings Window And Door Trim
Walls Ceilings
Stairways
Stairways
Window And Door Trim
Woodwork Staining
Stairways
Woodwork Staining
Garage And Workshop Floors And Walls
Garage And Workshop Floors And Walls
Small Patch Repair
Woodwork Staining
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Drywall Repair
Garage And Workshop Floors And Walls
Drywall Repair
Small Patch Repair
Great Service – Reasonable Rates
Great Service – Reasonable Rates
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References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075
References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075
Great Service – Reasonable Rates
References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075
GAINING EXPERIENCE Having loved video games and game making since he was young, Alex Knight will soon graduate from DigiPen Institute after having worked on “Knight Light,” a recently-published game on Steam. His journey from Warsaw to the digital world of game development is an example of where curiosity, teamwork and years of hard work can lead. Photo provided by Alex Knight.
Warsaw celebrates lake education signage
On Wednesday, April 23, the city of Warsaw, Warsaw Parks Department, Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams, Kosciusko County Chamber of Commerce, and many other community members celebrated a ribbon cutting for the newly- installed educational signage around Center and Pike lakes.
Twelve signs help visitors and locals understand their lake better and explain the city’s conservation efforts.
“The installation of these educational signs will provide ongoing education on the topics of water quality and environmental engineering,” said Brandon Cordell, MS4 coordinator for the city of Warsaw. “These educational signs will not only provide ongo-
Lakeland Christian Academy to host groundbreaking, fundraiser May 3
Lakeland Christian Academy is inviting the community, along with the LCA family, to a ground-breaking ceremony for the Early Learning Academy through third-grade building Saturday, May 3.
The event will take place at 10 a.m. at the Winona Lake Campus, 1093 S. 250E. The celebration will mark bringing all Lakeland Christian Academy students together on one campus for the 2026-2027 school year. After the launch of a capital campaign, the school is ready for the building phase.
The new building will include expanded classrooms, dedicated science, technology, engineering, art and math spaces, updated technology and enhanced safety features. This expanded facility
Continued on page 5
ing education but will serve as a reminder of the importance of our natural environment and how it protects our surface waters.”
In response to data that showed lower water clarity in Center and Pike lakes compared to nearby lakes, the city of Warsaw implemented several projects designed to improve clarity and the overall health of the lakes. Shoreline restoration and native plantings help reduce erosion, provide fish habitat, and filter nutrients and pollution before they enter the lake, reducing algae growth.
Although the public areas looked different, the city wanted its constituents to know that these projects would improve recreational activities, like fishing, swimming, camping, and boating.
The city partnered with Lilly Center scientists and the artists at Blue Note Design to create
original and educational signage specific to each lake. The beautiful signs dive into topics, such as the lake-food chain, the purpose of shoreline plants, buffer zones, and more.
The signage was strategically installed near familiar recreational areas. Now, everyone can see how these projects benefit them, their lakes, and the activities they enjoy.
“The city understand that healthy lakes are essential to our community’s well-being and our economy,” said Dr. Nate Bosch, Creighton Brothers’ endowed director of the Lilly Center. “The shoreline restoration projects completed over the last years are great example of work that protects Center and Pike lakes and this signage is a final, thoughtful touch to the work that has already been done.”
COMMUNITY LEADERS Community leaders gather to celebrate the ribbon cutting for new lake signs. Photo by Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams.
LAKE SIGNAGE Brandon Cordell, left, and Dr. Nate Bosch speak before cutting the ribbon. Photo provided by Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams.
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.
New questions
Stamping supplies — I would be interested in any used or new Stampin’ Up stamping supplies you no longer want: Ink pads, Stampin’ blend markers, paper, stamp sets, etc. Call (574) 253-8602.
Kefir grains — Does any good neighbor have water and/or dairy kefir grains to share? Call (574) 354-0417, Nappanee.
Osterizer blender — Would anybody have the bottom part of the Osterizer blender (cap with blades on top part)? Mine is wore out. Call (574) 646-2126.
CPAP machine — I am looking for a CPAP machine you might not need anymore. Call (574) 773-0456, ext. 1.
New support group for those with mental illness
The National Alliance on Mental Illness Indiana has announced new, weekly support groups at The Gathering Place, 123 S. Buffalo St. Warsaw, for individuals with lived experience of a mental illness and their families. These groups will begin Monday May 5, kicking off Mental Health Awareness Month.
NAMI Peer Connections Support Group is a support group led by trained NAMI Indiana facilitators, who have experience with
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mental illness.
NAMI Family Connections Support Group is a support group led by trained NAMI Indiana facilitators who have experience caring for an individual with a mental illness. Both groups will provide support, empathy, encouragement, respect, and hope. These groups are free and confidential and are held weekly for 90 minutes, beginning at 6 p.m. on Monday evenings.
NAMI Indiana is the state organization of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It’s the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. Through advocacy, education, support, and public awareness, NAMI Indiana works to raise awareness and provide essential services across the state, while partnering for systems change at the state level.
Animal Welfare League hosts ‘Empty The Shelters’ event
Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County will host “Empty the Shelters” in order to help pets find loving homes.
BISSELL Pet Foundation, a national nonprofit dedicated to ending pet homelessness, is once again prompting a nationwide call for adoption through its event, running May 1-15.
AWL will participate alongside more than 380 shelters across 43 states to help pets find loving homes through reduced adoption fees of $70 or less, generously sponsored by BISSELL Pet Foundation. AWL will be participating May 1-15. AWL is located at 1048 S. CR 325E, Pierceton. it will be offering $70 adoptions for cats, dogs and kittens. Visit awlwarsaw.com to view adoptable pets and learn more.
“Every time we host ‘Empty the Shelters,’ it affirms the importance of this lifesaving program,” said Cathy Bissell, founder of BISSELL Pet Foundation. “During the two-week event in May, tens of thousands of pets of all kinds, many of who’ve waited far too long, will find the loving homes they deserve. Empty the Shelters has created real momentum around adoption, helping our nation’s overcrowded shelters save more lives. We are proud to keep expanding this life-changing effort and grateful to everyone who makes it possible by adopting or donating.”
Help AWL double the love. Thanks to your incredible support, 48 pets found their forever homes during the December BISSELL “Empty the Shelters” event. That’s 48 tails wagging and purrs rumbling in new homes filled with love.
From May 1-15, the goal is to double the impact and change 96 lives, heal 96 hearts, and have 96 happy homes.
There will be discounted adoption fees and all pets are spayed or neutered, vaccinated and ready to go.
SPORTS CLUB
The Grace College Shooting Sports Club recently won the team high overall honors in all three divisions.
Shown from left are Jackson Million, Niko Lopez, Micah Graber, Lexas McCallister, Matthew Walters, Lauren Papenfus, Cody Plisky, Addison Clark, Thomas O’Neil, Jakob Haber, Coach Paul Blair, John Thomas and Joel Petrie.
Photo provided by Grace College.
Grace College shooting sports teams dominate collegiate invitational
The Grace Shooting Sports Club at Grace College recently won the team high overall honors in all three divisions: Overall, Women and Men at the Indiana Wesleyan University Wildcat Invitational. Grace outshot teams from Indiana Wesleyan, Purdue and Ferris State.
“We are thrilled to see more colleges and universities in Indiana and the region begin shooting sports clubs and host invitational events like this one,” said Paul Blair, GSSC head coach. “While we enjoy the spirit of competition with our peer schools, working together to strengthen our sport is just as rewarding.”
The women’s team took the high score overall, supported by dominant performances from the team’s female shooters. Lexas McCallister was the top shooter in trap singles and
Lakeland Christian
Continued from page 3
will allow the school to welcome more students and better serve its youngest learners.
Lakeland Christian Academy also is inviting the community to attend its first annual spring fundraiser at 5 p.m. Saturday, May 3, at Christ’s Covenant Church, 2090 E. Pierceton Road, Winona Lake. It will be an evening of celebrating the
trap doubles. She placed second in handicap trap and was the high overall women’s champion. Teammate Lauren Papenfus took second in trap singles and third place in handicap trap.
Complementing the team’s performance, Addison Clark, who was competing for the very first time, took second in trap doubles.
The men’s team finished high overall as well. On an individual basis, Matthew Walters took second place among the men in trap doubles.
The single-day event included each athlete shooting three events (trap singles, trap doubles and handicap trap from the 23-yard line) at a total of 250 targets. This was the second year for the event, sponsored by Indiana Wesleyan University.
In its ninth year, the GSSC is a recreational shotgun shooting
future of the school, with live and silent auctions, food from Do Good BBQ and a cash mocktail beverage bar, provided by Alchemy.
Tickets can be purchased at lcacougars.com/spring-fundraiser.
Lakeland Christian Academy has been serving the Warsaw and Winona Lake communities for 50 years.
club that focuses on promoting gun safety, enhancing shooting skills and connecting with the shooting community. The group strives to promote a positive image of shooting sports, provide opportunities for leadership development and enhance
community awareness of safe shooting practices.
The GSSC is open to all Grace students and meets twice a month at KOSKO Shotgun Sports Complex, 2391 Fox Farm Road, Warsaw. Practices include shooting a variety of sporting
clays, trap and skeet. There are currently 63 Grace students on the GSSC roster, and 10 participate as part of the competitive team.
To learn more about GSSC, contact Coach Paul Blair at blairp@grace.edu.
&
SPRING CRAFT SHOW The Warsaw chapter of Eastern Star will hold its May Day Market Saturday, May 3, at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds, Warsaw. Shoppers will find lots of crafts, food and flowers. Kosciusko County Animal Welfare League also will have dogs and kittens on hand for adoption.
Pictured are Katie Juillerat, left, of the Animal Welfare League, and Cindy Nolton, of Eastern Star. Photo provided by Cindy Nolton.
Discover crafts, more at May Day Market
Warsaw chapter No. 88 of the Order of the Eastern Star will be holding its annual May Day Market Saturday, May 3.
The craft show will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds, 1400 E. Smith St., Warsaw.
Shoppers can expect to find a variety of vendors with spring and summer craft and gift items for sale.
Along with the crafters, there will be food trucks and flowers, and the Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County will have dogs and kittens there for adoption. Entry to the May Day Market is free.
The Order of the Eastern Star is a charitable fraternal organization; both women and men can join and it has more than 1 million members worldwide.
EARTH DAY CLEAN UP American Bikers Aimed Toward Education of Kosciusko County marked Earth Day Tuesday, April 22, by picking up trash on SR 15 on a two-mile stretch south of CR 400S, its designated spot through the Indiana Department of Transportation Adopt-A-Highway program. In the front is
ABATE marks Earth Day
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
American Bikers Aimed Toward Education of Kosciusko County’s members utilize SR 15.
That’s the reason why they wish to keep trash from along the sides of the road, said the club’s county representative, Donnie Barton.
Members marked Earth Day, on Tuesday, April 22, by picking up trash along SR 15 along a stretch from CR 400S south.
Barton noted the club’s been cleaning that stretch for more than 15 years. It’s officially theirs to clean through the Indiana Department of Transportation’s Adopt-A-Highway program.
“The trash that’s on these roads blows across the street in front of us, so we’d like to try to keep it as clean as possible,” said Barton. “We do two miles of road. It would be appreciated if we could get more organizations and companies to jump in and be a part of it.”
He said members initially intended to clean up last week, but the weather was poor. They thought Tuesday worked out well as a new date due to it being
Earth Day.
Barton said members do cleaning along SR 15 three to four times a year.
“We’re out here to clean up, try to take care of our community as best as we can,” he said.
He noted members do other community service, with other events through the year. Club members will travel to Lawrence County Saturday, May 31, to honor county members who’ve passed
away at a statewide ABATE memorial.
Members also plan to mark Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month in May by having the Kosciusko County Board of Commissioners read a proclamation.
Anyone is welcome to join ABATE regardless of if they have a motorcycle, said Barton. Those who are interested in joining should contact him at (574) 5273686.
Diabetes 101 being offered by Elkhart County Extension
By EMILY CHRIST Health and Human Sciences Secretary Purdue Extension Elkhart County
Learn essential knowledge and practical skills for managing diabetes effectively during the “Diabetes 101” program. This program is tailored for individuals diagnosed with diabetes, as well as their caregivers and loved ones. Participants will
gain knowledge on fundamental information about diabetes, its management, and strategies for optimizing health and well-being.
Join this free educational program presented by Emily Christ, Purdue University Extension Educator in Health and Human Sciences in Elkhart County. This program is being offered at 5 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at the Elkhart Public Library, Pierre
Moran Branch, 2400 Benham Ave., Elkhart, and will last about one hour.
If you would like to attend the program, register by calling Jenn at (574) 533-0554 or email fink24@purdue.edu
If you are in need of accommodations or an interpreter or translator to attend a program, contact Christ at (574) 533-0554 or ewitters@purdue.edu by May 8.
member Johnny Butler. In the back from left are Wes Blankenship, Kirby LeMond, Jodi Ferguson, Randy Squires, Carol Kantner, Donnie Barton, Bryan Mendenhall, Adam Sheets, Rhonda Hardy, B.J. Summers and Taden Dove. Photo by Leah Sander.
PICKING UP TRASH Rhonda Hardy picks up trash along SR 15. Photo provided by Donnie Barton.
Look out for poison hemlock
By MARK EVANS Extension Educator Plant and Soil Science Purdue Extension
Introduced from Europe as an ornamental plant, poison hemlock contains highly-poisonous alkaloid compounds which can be fatal to humans and animals. It is commonly found along roadsides, streams, trails, ditches and abandoned, unkept areas.
Kosciusko County Development Director Tammy Smith said, “Just take that first small step.” Photo provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana.
Big Brothers and Big Sisters needed
By MAKSYM HART Staff Writer
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana is calling on community members to step up as mentors as it prepares to launch its yearly recruitment campaign Thursday, April 24.
With dozens of children in Kosciusko County alone still waiting for a match, some for over a year, the organization is emphasizing the urgent need for volunteer Bigs, particularly male mentors.
“We need it all. But first and foremost — we need more Bigs,” said Tammy Smith, Kosciusko County’s development director. “That’s what the campaign is about: stepping up for the children who are still waiting.”
Through its “It Takes 2” initiative, BBBS aims to recruit 500 mentors across northeast Indiana, including at least 60 in Kosciusko County. Smith said many children on the wait list are boys growing up without a consistent male role model.
“You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to show up,” she said.
For volunteer Big Sister Lisa Roberts, mentoring has become a meaningful part of life. A retired teacher, Roberts said she was drawn to the program after hearing about it from a friend and missing the interaction with youth.
She was matched nearly a year ago with Sianna Engle, a teenager in need of a consistent adult presence outside of her immediate family.
“Sianna told me she had waited almost a year,” Roberts said. “I felt sad, because ... there are so many people out there who would make great Bigs, but I think some just don’t realize how many kids are out there needing another adult to talk to.”
The impact of a mentor can be life-changing, both Roberts and Smith agreed. From helping improve academic outcomes to simply offering another trusted voice, mentors fill critical roles in the lives of their Littles.
For Roberts and Engle, that has meant crafting together, walking at the YMCA, or simply talking through life’s challenges.
“Now she can crochet like crazy, and she tries to teach me,” Roberts laughed. “And it’s making me be
a better parent to my (adult) children, a better listener.”
BBBS offers two main mentoring programs: a community-based model, where Bigs and Littles meet two to four times per month, and a school-based “Lunch Buddies” model, which requires only 30 minutes a week during lunchtime.
The organization provides training, safety protocols, and ongoing support to all volunteers.
The agency is also looking for businesses and community organizations to contribute through sponsorships, job shadow opportunities, or simply helping spread the word.
“There are so many ways to get involved, even if mentoring isn’t the right fit right now,” Smith said. “We truly believe there’s a place for everyone at the table.”
As the Thursday, April 24, campaign launch approaches, BBBS hopes more people will consider taking that first step.
“Think about the person who made a difference in your life,” Smith said. “One child is waiting for someone just like you.”
For more information about how to volunteer or get involved, visit bbbsnei.org.
This plant spreads via seeds, so interrupting the development of new seed formation, while also exhausting the existing seed bank in the soil from previous years, is the key to success over the long term. Keep in mind that all parts of this plant are poisonous. This includes the pollen that forms on the plant flowers in June and can make one sick or even be lethal if chopping down plants and breathing pollen.
Control when the plant is young is key. The easiest way in many cases is to mow areas where there is an infestation of the plant. Often mowing spreads the plant when mowing after it has gone to seed. The seed and pollen may be very concentrated with the toxin, so care should be taken to not be working or playing in areas where these plants dominate.
Mowing will need to be repeated until July, keeping the plant from entering the reproductive stages of growth.
For chemical control, it’s essential to start now when plants are young for best control. A non-selective option for areas inundated with poison hemlock would be at least a 41% concentration of glyphosate mixed as a 2% solution. For a hand-pump sprayer, mix 3 ounces of glyphosate with one gallon of water. For best control, spray in the morning and if possible, use soft water that won’t tie up the chemical, like extremely hard water.
For most areas where there’s also grasses and other plants with the poison hemlock, use 2,4D or Triclopyr, which are selective options that will only kill broad-
to treat
leaf plants, like poison hemlock, while not having an impact on the grass species. Follow the label instruction for these broad-leaf herbicides that may have varying formulations.
Herbicides are most effective on young, first-year rosettes or very small second- year plants. Search out these plants now and treat them before they bolt with
very
growth in the coming weeks with warmer weather.
For more information, check out Purdue Extension’s invasive plant series publication: extension.purdue.edu/county/harrison/ anr-storage/poison-hemlock-article.pdf or request a printed copy or emailed copy by calling the Purdue Extension office at (574) 533-0554.
ANYONE
BE A BIG Lisa Roberts, left, is a Big Sister to Sianna Engle acting as a friend and guiding voice on subjects from everyday anxieties to school work. For those unsure about committing to mentoring,
POISON HEMLOCK — Shown is a close-up view of young poison hemlock. If using herbicide, now is the time
this
dangerous plant. Photo provided by Mark Evans.
David Leonard Eby
Owner Of AgriFlite Services
David Leonard Eby, 76, Wakarusa, was called home to be with Jesus at 3:19 a.m. Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at Hospice of the Valley, Phoenix, Ariz.
He was born Nov. 18, 1948, in Elkhart, to Elmer “Leonard” and Esther Marie (Miller) Eby. On Dec. 28, 1969, he married Denise (Erbaugh) Eby.
Surviving are his wife, Denise, Wakarusa; children, Ryan (Kristin) Eby of Syracuse, Garrett (Keri)
Eby of Wakarusa, Alicia Dodd and Adrian Dodd of Mundelein, Ill.; grandchildren, Kaitlin Eby, Courtney (Blake) Farley, Reyna Dodd and Serena Dodd; and a sister, Jan (Richard) Shively, Elkhart.
Preceding him in death are his parents and a sister, Judy Diamond.
Dave graduated from Wakarusa High School in 1967 and from LeTourneau College in 1971 with a Bachelor of Science in aerospace and mechanical engineering. He began his career as a flight instructor and, in 1973, started AgriFlite Services with a Cessna 188, taking the company’s first swath. Over the years, Dave and his family empowered crop and land managers with the tools, technology and aerial solutions needed to get the job done with efficiency, precision and safety. Celebrating over 50 years of excellence in aerial application, AgriFlite Services continues to serve with dedication, honoring his legacy.
Private family burial services were held at Olive Cemetery.
A celebration of life fly-in and drive-in will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 24, at the AgriFlite Services Inc. hangar, 30688 CR 36, Wakarusa. Details can be found at www.AgriFlite.com.
Rieth Rohrer Ehret Lienhart Funeral Home, Wakarusa, is handling arrangements and online condolences may be sent at rrefh.com.
Eliza Jones
Eliza Jones, 85, Syracuse, died Thursday, April 24, 2025, at Goshen Hospital.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse.
Carol Diane Warner
Carol Diane Warner, 82, Winona Lake, died Thursday, April 24, 2025, in the care of Grace Village Health Care, Winona Lake.
Arrangements are currently pending at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw.
Heidi Elizabeth Schwartz Marion and Linda (Troyer) Schwartz, Bourbon, are the parents of a daughter, Heidi Elizabeth, born at 11:34 p.m. April 17, 2025. She weighed 8 pounds.
Torilyn Martin
Phares and Melissa (Imhoff) Martin, Nappanee, are the parents of a daughter, Torilyn, born at 9:56 p.m. April 22, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 6 pounds, 14.5 ounces, and was 19 1/4 inches long.
Torilyn joins three siblings: Ashley, Kyla and Travis.
Jett Prescott Miller
Louis and Melody (Royer) Miller, Bourbon, are the parents of a son, Jett Prescott, born at 1:44 a.m. April 24, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 7 pounds, 10 ounces, and was 20 inches long.
Madalyn Brielle Hochstetler
Jerry and Brenda (Yoder) Hochstetler, Nappanee, are the parents of a daughter, Madalyn Brielle, born at 4:11 a.m. April 24, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 6 pounds, 13 ounces, and was 17 1/2 inches long.
KCS, ‘Turn Up The Juice’ win Northenor award prizes at KLA graduation April 22
By DAVID SLONE Times-Union
As part of the 43rd Kosciusko Leadership Academy Graduation Celebration for the Class of 2025 Tuesday, April 22, monetary prizes were given to the two, white-paper project teams that best met certain criteria.
KLA Moderator Dr. Allyn Decker explained the white paper process is something they’ve tried to perfect over the years. “We have three criteria for what we call an award-winning project. The project must have countywide impact — it can’t just benefit one community or small group of people or one entity. It should be doable — it should be something that can actually be accomplished, deliverable during the academy year. And then it must be sustainable, so the team has to figure out a sustainability plan — a way for that project to live past and beyond the KLA year,” he said. “Then we use those criteria to judge the projects during Project Proud and then we award funds to the team or teams that we felt best met those criteria, and also teams that we felt funding could really help advance quickly the work of their projects.”
This year, there was a first and second place Northenor Award. Judges were Rob Parker, CEO of the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce; Rich Haddad, CEO of K21 Health Foundation; and Heather Reichenbach, president of the Warsaw Community School Board.
First place and $2,000 went to the white paper project titled Kosciusko Community Services, consisting of team members Heather Barron, Kyle Rainey and Tony Booker.
Reading a description of the project from the judges, Decker said, “This incredible team began with a vision to create a community-wide online directory for social services and education. But as they explored further, they discovered that Kosciusko Cares already had a well-developed and functional directory in place.”
Rather than duplicating efforts, they pivoted to focusing on strengthening what already existed. “Their work resulted in a thoughtful and comprehensive marketing and communication plan designed to take the Cares directory from being the ‘best kept secret in the community’ to becoming a widely known and accessible resource,” Decker said.
“We are confident that the $2,000 reward will serve as a catalyst for this initiative, amplifying its reach and impact. With the team’s continued collaboration with Cares, this directory has the potential to
become a go-to starting point for anyone in the county seeking vital services.”
Second place and $1,000 went to the white-paper project titled “Turn Up the Juice,” consisting of team members Barb Garringer, Jay Linder, David Dohner and Mike Whitaker.
In reading the description for this project, Decker said, “This energetic team turned their attention to the educational efforts already underway through Kosciusko REMC. Specifically, a program that brings engaging, creative and unforgettable lessons on electrical use and safety to every fourth-grader in the county.
Recognizing the value and the potential of this initiative, the team proposed expanding the reach of the mobile classroom to all elementary schools across the county. With the help of this $1,000 award, they’ll be able to take the learning directly to students on-site and hands-on, ensuring a broader and more impactful educational experience.
By increasing access to this unique program, the team is helping to elevate electrical safety awareness in our community, and perhaps even saving lives in the process.”
The other five project teams and team members were:
• Kosciusko County Housing Coalition, team members Ben Logan, Savannah Beer, Austin Beer and Jackson Longenbaugh.
• Winona Avenue Revival Project, team members Peggy Friday, JC Aguilar, Kirbey Brewer and Rob Spencer.
• Re-Entry Simulator, team members Rochelle Taylor, Jacki Pawski, Ryan Neese and Sean Bergsma.
• Youth and the Outdoors United, team members Liz McCullough, Paul Heaton, Tyler Ostrom and Bryan Wong.
• Boomerang Backpack Pro-
gram: Funding for the Future, team members Karen Myers, Aaron Ott and Christian Moyer.
Earlier, KLA Advisor Nathan Conley presented the Hall of Fame Award to Todd and Kari Speicher, Instrumental Machine and Development. In presenting the engraved glass plaque, Conley said if KLA had a wall of its own, it would have the Hall of Fame Award recipients on it, with the KLA founders at the very top.
“For the Hall of Fame Award, this is given each year to an individual that really embodies the idea of servant leadership and you know what it takes for a successful KLA,” he said. “… We need people to fill the seats though, so the supporters, the sponsors and cadets.”
The Hall of Fame Award is kind of a special thank-you each year to those who KLA can’t thank enough. Most years the award recipient is one individual, though there was a year KLA gave two individual Hall of Fame Awards out.
“But this year we’ve actually got a joint award. These recipients are a long-time KLA supporters in a lot of ways. They always sponsor cadets,” Conley said, noting that one year he believed they sponsored three cadets. “They jump in, help out KLA, and you see them jump right out and do many other community activities — childcare, taking care of employees, a lot of cool stuff in the community.”
He then announced the award recipients as Todd and Kari Speicher. For the guest speaker portion of the evening’s program, KLA Moderator Dr. Allyn Decker had a “fireside chat” with Warsaw Mayor Jeff Grose for about a half hour.
A 2024 Trustee Award team report was given by Chris McKeand and Mike Murphy on their “Marketing Campaign for Kosciusko Community Recovery program,” followed by a 2024 Northenor Award team report by Mikie Stogsdill on “We Lead Kosciusko 2.0.”
HALL OF FAME This year’s Kosciusko Leadership Academy Hall of Fame recipients were Kari and Todd Speicher, Instrumental Machine and Development. Photo by David Slone.
C ounty R epo R t
Court News
Small Claims
The following small claims have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Warsaw Health System LLC, d/b/a Kosciusko Community Hospital v. Zachary Beck, $3,495.20; v. Nicole Feldman, $1,493.90: v. Timothy Hines, $6,920.72; v. Annette Hyde, $6,432.92; v. Samantha Johnson, $2,071.73; v. Ronald Ousley, $1,689.30
Matthew Replogle, $3,188.87; v. Susan Schultz, $1,271.02; v. Amanda Tolson, $669.86
CL Benz Co. LLC v. Anthony Hackworth, $2,457.05
Hollar Dental Group v. Eldon Long, $1,801.17
Vanderpool Law Firm PC v. Phyllis Pollock, $755
Snow and Sauerteig LLP v. Engracia Tepotecaxco, $4,327.42
Civil Collections
The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler
presiding:
Crown Asset Management LLC v. Jason Abbott, $1,456.66; v. Alicia Clark, $5,265.68
Discover Bank v. Chelsea E. Bridgman, $2,269.11; v. Ashley Shepherd,
Failure of occupant to use a safety belt — Austin R. Robbins, Pierceton, $25; Daniel R. Yeiter, Warsaw, $25; Kati N. Carpenter, Warsaw, $25; Robert A. Melcher, Winona Lake, $25; Kevin E. Kime, Mentone, $25; Marinel Lynn Cannon, Warsaw, $25
Marriage Licenses
The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court
Melissa Boggs: Owens-Garber
Mariah Owens, 25, Warsaw, and Nicholas Garber, 25, Warsaw Mast-Miller
Wayne Alan Mast, 20, Nappanee, and Regina Kay Miller, 22, Milford Devenney-Marshall
Sierra Devenney, 25, Warsaw, and Jacob Marshall, 25, Warsaw Clingerman-Helton
Shae Clingerman, 24, Warsaw, and Gregory Helton, 20, Warsaw Anderson-Searer
Joshua James Anderson, 41, Warsaw, and Rebekah Leahanne Searer, 36, Warsaw
Harney-Patrick
Allison Kay Harney, 28, Syracuse, and Nathan Michael Patrick, 30, Leesburg
Bontrager-Schwartz
Mark Allen Bontrager, 20, Nappanee, and Sheila Rose Schwartz, 22, Etna Green Miller-LaFollette
Jaden Johnathan Miller, 21, Pierceton, and Kaylee Ann LaFol-
lette, 20, Pierceton Stuursma-Miller
Madison Stuursma, 25, Syracuse, and Travis Miller, 25, Syracuse
Marriage Dissolutions
The following couples have filed for a marriage dissolution in Kos-
ciusko Superior Courts I or IV: Schuh — Ashley Schuh, Warsaw, and Jeremy Schuh, Warsaw. They were married Feb. 24, 2012; separated April 2, 2024. Two minor children.
Skeans-Heiman Turner — Stacy Renea Skeans, Warsaw, and Heather Jimmie Heiman Turner, Bradenton, Fla. They were married May 18, 2020; separated April 22, 2023. No minor child(ren).
Goshen Physicians Family Medicine opening office at Wakarusa location
Goshen Physicians is opening a new family medicine practice in Wakarusa. The office will be located at 121 E. Waterford St., Wakarusa.
Renovations are underway for the 2,500-square-foot primary care office, which is scheduled to open in June 2025. The clinic will include three exam rooms and a phlebotomy room for quick and convenient lab testing and will accommodate one primary care physician.
“We are excited to expand our
services in the Wa-Nee community,” said Jon Yoder, vice president of Goshen Physicians. “Being able to get access to your doctor is important, which is why we offer walk-in services at our Nappanee location and why we’re expanding to Wakarusa.”
The clinic will offer comprehensive preventive care as well as treatment for common illnesses and chronic disease management for patients of all ages. New Goshen
Spring Open House
Health patients can call (574) 8622015 to make an appointment.
“Our commitment to the health and well-being of our community is unwavering,” said Randy Christophel, Goshen Health president and CEO. “We’re looking forward to providing exceptional care at this convenient location in Wakarusa.”
Goshen Physicians will host a grand- opening celebration for the new facility. Details will be announced closer to the event date.
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Online Building Supply
And Industrial Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Thursday, May 1. Preview 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 30 at 416 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. Bid online at bid.kraftauctions.com.
Jeanette Mattern
Estate Auction
10 a.m. Saturday, May 3. Located 3 miles south of Bremen on Elm Road.
Online Silver Lake Fire Department Benefit Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Saturday, May 3. Pickup located in Silver Lake. Pole saws, outdoor furniture, snowshoes, wind chimes, lighting, planters, work gloves. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Metzger Online Only
Comic Auction
Bidding open until 7 p.m. Monday, May 5. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Comic book collection, sports cards and memorabilia, collectibles. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Edna T. Miller
Trust Estate Auction
3:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 6. Located 1 mile southwest of US 20 om CR 22 to 13498 CR 22, Middlebury.
Phone Bid
Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 6. Property located at 12240 CR 4, Middlebury. For bidding and bidding updates, call (574) 238-1816 or (574) 596-9890.
Online Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m.
Tuesday, May 6. Open house
5:30-6 p.m. Tuesday, April 29. Property located at 206 N. Tucker St., Mentone. Two-story home, detached garage. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Hamman
Real Estate Auction
6 p.m. Thursday, May 8. Located at 9064 N. SR 19, Etna Green. Five-acre farmette with pole barns and ranch home, 3-bed, 2-bath. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction. com.
Borkholder Phone Bid
Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 4 p.m. Monday, May 12. Property located at 2269 Kenilworth Road, Bremen. Public inspections 4-6 p.m. Mondays or by appointment. For bidding and bidding updates, call (260) 499-0216 or (260) 499-0093.
Kupferschmid Phone Bid
Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 13. Property located at 4893 Filbert Trail, Bremen. Public inspections by appointment. For bidding and bidding updates, call (260) 499-0216 or (260) 499-0093.
Commercial
Real Estate Auction
5 p.m. Wednesday, May 14. Located at 1303 and 1305 Lincolnway East, Goshen. Corner lot, 1.43 with three buildings. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Land Auction
6:30 p.m. Thursday, May 16. Located at Claypool Lions Club, 201 W. Calhoun St. Property located at CR 700S, east from Claypool to CR 200W, then south. 47 acres, quality cropland and woods. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Manchester University presents spring concert ‘A Musical Epic’
Manchester University will present its spring concert, “A Musical Epic,” at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 30, in Cordier Auditorium.
The free concert features Manchester’s Jazz Ensemble and Symphonic Band.
The Jazz Ensemble, directed by Tim Reed, professor of music, will perform a mix of funk, jazz and Latin music.
The Symphonic Band, directed by MacKenzi Lowry, lecturer of music, will play music that por-
trays a hero’s quest for adventure.
Pre-concert activities, including games, a photo booth, and an “instrument petting zoo,” will begin at 6 p.m. in the auditorium lobby. The “petting zoo” will give guests the opportunity to try out a variety of musical instruments. In addition to the Jazz Ensemble and Symphonic Band, Manchester University offers more than 10 extracurricular vocal and instrumental ensembles.
Six managers named at Bowen Health
Kim Shininger, director of community engagement, Wabash. Shininger joins Bowen Health with more than 35 years of health care experience in operations, human resources, and community initiatives. She grew up in Wabash and has worked for a large health system there for most of her career. Her unique perspective on the needs of that community is based on the strong relationships she’s built with countless organizations over the years.
dedication to every position she has taken. Her unwavering commitment to the work and the people served has made her the perfect person to step into the director position.
Bowen Health’s quality manager for more than 11 years. She will work closely with local teams across the organization to identify ways to ensure that each patient’s experience reflects Bowen Health’s commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care.
Katie Shomo, director of community engagement, Huntington. Beginning her career at Bowen Health more than eight years ago, Shomo very quickly moved into leadership positions. Her knowledge and familiarity with the community will allow her to continue to build relationships benefiting patients.
Rebekah Morgan, Director, Cass, Grant, Tipton counties. In the past five years, Morgan has played an integral role at Bowen Health, bringing passion and
Brianna Myers, director, Adams, Blackford, Delaware, Jay, and Wells counties. Beginning her career at Bowen Health eight years ago, Myers has demonstrated excellence in numerous roles. She’s committed to Bowen’s mission and is passionate about supporting her team and ensuring that patients receive excellent care at every visit.
Elizabeth Bearman, associate director of patient experience. This newly- established role expands on Bearman’s experience serving as
Sonya Houin, associate director of health care quality and compliance. Houin brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this role, most recently serving as an infection preventionist within another health system. She has a master’s degree in public health and over a decade of experience in program management, administration, and health and safety across primary and mental health care settings.
Bowen Health is a nonprofit community health system committed to serving the underserved in Indiana. No one is turned away for an inability to pay. Bowen Health provides easy access to a wide range of health care services under one roof, including primary health care, mental health care, and addiction recovery treatment, to help people live their best lives longer.
For more information, visit BowenHealth.org.
BRIANNA MYERS
ELIZABETH BEARMAN
KATIE SHOMO
KIM SHININGER
REBEKAH MORGAN
SONYA HOUIN
CHAMBER
and Paddles, 105 E.
Paddles; and chamber ambassador Melissa
are
National Day of Prayer
On Thursday, May 1, the Kosciusko County National Day of Prayer will be held at noon at the Rodeheaver Auditorium in Winona Lake. The theme this 74th year of the National Day of Prayer is “Hope given to us by God,” from
Part-
NWES students to learn about money with ‘Captain Cash’
“Captain Cash,” an elementary financial literacy curriculum designed by Purdue Extension for third-grade students, will be sailing at North Webster Elementary School.
Third-graders will participate in four class sessions with takehome parent newsletters given at the end of each lesson. Newsletters contain suggested at-home games and activities that focus on earning, saving, planned spending and wise borrowing of money. Each session introduces money-related vocabulary words and teaches money concepts based on Indiana academic standards for math and social studies.
To learn more about inviting “Captain Cash” to your school, or to embark on a money voyage of your own, contact Purdue Extension educator Shannon Shepherd by email at shephe52@purdue. edu or call (574) 372-2340.
event May 1 in Winona Lake
which people are able to derive joy and peace no matter what is going on in the world or community.
Eastern Star chapter installs new members
Warsaw Chapter No. 88 of the Order of the Eastern Star met Tuesday, April 15, and installed four new members.
The new members include Kameron and Jessica Biggs, and
Chuck and Kari Brindle.
Members were also able to pick up signs for the group’s annual May Day Market craft show, which was set to be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 3, at the Kosciusko
County Fairgrounds in Warsaw. Order of the Eastern Star is a charitable fraternal organization. Anyone who would like more information may contact Cheryl Brunjes at (574) 528-1243.
LET'S GROW! GARDEN CENTER
Again this year, instead of having people praying from the stage, local participants will be at round tables where they will all pray as they feel led in areas of prayer concern that include “the church, families, schools, military, government and the persecuted church.” Every few minutes the subject of prayer will change among these topics.
According to a news release, the idea is that “200 prayers going into the throne room of God will make more of a difference than one prayer by someone on the stage.”
Each table will have at least one prayer leader, who is willing to pray out loud for the current topic. Everyone else may pray silently or out loud as they feel
led. There will be slides on the screen up front with prayer topics, scripture and prayer starter notes. There will also be paper copies for each one at the tables. Music will be led by Richard Dick, piano, and the three-generation family of singers Kirt Case, Bethany Couture and Connor Couture. The hymn of hope will be “Because He Lives” by the Gaithers. The prayer event will close with “God Bless America.”
The program will be livestreamed so that those at home can pray along wherever they are at. Visit facebook.com/KosciuskoNDP.
It can be watched later on YouTube at Kosciusko County IN National Day of Prayer.
NEW
MEMBER Pedals
Esterbrook Drive, just off SR 13 in North Webster has joined the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce.
In the front row from left are chamber ambassadors Brittni Kuhn, Lake City Bank; Melody Cusick, Re/Max partners and Rachel Hatfield, The 3863 Event Venue; Barb and Steve Huffman, owners of Pedals and
Longenecker, Re/Max
ners. In the back row
chamber director, Jessica Barger, Lakeland Youth Center; James Lashbrook, Pedals and Paddles; Chris Scheeren, chamber director, Blue Barn Berry Farm; and ambassadors Rita Davis, Re/Max Partners; and Sheryl Colquitt, Eastlund Funeral Home. Photo provided by the chamber.