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Serving Kosciusko County and parts of Elkhart, Marshall & Noble Counties

Know Your Neighbor . . . . . . . . . . 2➤ Good Neighbors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Vol. 55, No. 28

Milford (574) 658-4111 • Warsaw (574) 269-2932 • Syracuse (574) 457-3666

114 W. Market, Warsaw, Indiana 46580

, s n i g e b 6 2 0 s As 2 p l e h t i b e l t t i l every s t fi o r p n o n r fo A DRIVE TO SERVE — Volunteers and donations fill tables during a Combined Community Services school supplies drive, helping ensure local students have backpacks, notebooks and other essentials as the organization faces rising costs heading into 2026. Photo provided by Combined Community Services. By MAKSYM HART Staff Writer As 2025 comes to a close and a new year begins, nonprofit organizations across Kosciusko County are entering 2026 on uneven footing. What remains consistent, nonprofit leaders say, is the need, and the reminder that even small acts of generosity can make a difference. At Combined Community Services, Executive Director Kiira Churchill said the organization is thankful for donor support but is feeling the pressure of inflation on nearly every front. “Expenses are up: operationally, utilities, everything,” Churchill said, noting that rising energy and basic operating costs are affecting nonprofits across the board. End-of-year donations are especially critical for helping the organization move into the new year, she said. Combined Community Services relies heavily on volunteers and donations to operate its food pantry and assistance programs, which continue to see high demand. Churchill said support does not have to come in large amounts to be meaningful. Monetary donations, volunteer hours and even simple items such as clean, used egg cartons, which allow the pantry to redistribute eggs, all help stretch resources and serve more families. Other organizations are seeing more positive momentum. At Living In Transition Effectively (LITE) Recovery Center, donations increased significantly throughout 2025, with a noticeable surge in December. Tammy Cotton, executive director of the nonprofit, said LITE received more than $60,000 in private donations this year, with more than half arriving during the final month. She attributed the increase to greater community awareness and the growth of monthly donors.

Since its founding in 2023, LITE has expanded from three staff members to nearly 20 and now serves about 200 participants through its peer recovery program, recovery café and assisted housing for individuals recently released from incarceration. “It’s important to understand we’re not giving people a handout. We’re giving them a hand up,” Cotton said. While grants make up the majority of LITE’s funding, private donations play a critical role, she said. Those funds help cover gaps that grants often do not, including transportation, meals, recovery housing scholarships and emergency needs such as hotel stays or assistance obtaining identification documents. Organizations serving seniors report steadier donations but increasing challenges as costs rise. At Kosciusko Community Senior Services, contributions are roughly on par with last year, but demand for its mobile meals program has climbed. Nearly 20 seniors are currently on a waiting list for meals, largely due to higher food costs and a shortage of volunteer drivers. Food remains one of the center’s largest expenses, and aging vehicles used for transportation are driving up maintenance costs. “Winter months often bring heightened needs for seniors living on fixed incomes,” office manager Lee Ann Andrews said, including help accessing food, prescriptions and reliable transportation. For other nonprofits, stable giving has not been enough to offset financial headwinds. At the Beaman Home’s Emergency Shelter, donations have remained relatively consistent, but rising household costs and significant grant reductions are forcing difficult decisions. Executive Director April Slone said maintaining the emergency shelter remains the organization’s top priority, even if other services must be scaled back. Continued on page 3

UNDER PRESSURE — A nurse with Kosciusko Community Senior Services checks a senior’s blood pressure, one of many services in demand as the agency works to support a growing number of older residents on fixed incomes. Photo provided by Kosciusko Community Senior Services.

CARING FOR PEOPLE A PRIORITY — Virginia Cox, right, serves a meal to a guest at the Beaman Home, where staff continue to prioritize daily care and meals despite rising expenses and anticipated grant reductions in the coming year. Photo provided by the Beaman Home.

www.the-papers.com — ‘the PAPER’ — Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Know Your neighbor

Peer recovery coach stays flexible By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer “You have these windows when they’re willing, and you’ve got to go,” said Peer Recovery Coach and Peer Navigator Shelly Metzger. “And it’s not on your schedule. That’s your opportunity to get them where they need to be. This job is not convenient.” Working at Living In Transition Effectively in Warsaw, she knows from experience that she needs to stay flexible and strong to help her peers overcome substance abuse. Metzger hails from Columbia City and moved to Pierceton at age 14. She often ran into L.I.T.E. Director Tammy Cotton during her stints working at All Things New recovery home, as a skills coach for Bowen Health, and as an activities coordinator and recovery class leader for Fellowship Missions. “When an opportunity came for me to work with L.I.T.E., for Tammy, I jumped on it,” Metzger said. She became credentialed as a recovery coach and began working at L.I.T.E. two years ago. “There’s really no such thing as a set schedule,” she said. “You’re working with people,

and a lot of time in addiction and mental health they’re in crisis. ... Whether it’s taking somebody to inpatient, or sitting in the ER with somebody who’s going through delirium tremens on a Friday night, you just never know.” Metzger has always been active and brings that skill set with her to work. She teaches a stretching class at L.I.T.E.’s Milford location on Fridays and leads a variety of workouts with her peers. She teaches styles such as SoulFusion, a choreographed blend of yoga, Pilates, high-intensity impact training and weights. Exercise, she has found, has real benefits for the recovery process. “The release of endorphins, it’s sustainable,” she said. “When you’re using substances, you need more and more and more of that substance, so there’s no homeostasis in your body. With fitness, it’s helps you sleep better, it increases your metabolism. If you struggle with anxiety - which I do - the rhythm therapy, with the choreography part of it, really helps my anxiety and stress levels.” She shares her passion with her daughter, Megan, who holds a degree in nutrition and exercise science.

Metzger also leads R.I.S.E., a support group for teens age 13 to 17, addressing mental health and substance abuse issues. Working with young people is quite different from working with their adult counterparts, in her experience. “If it is substance use disorder, it’s not imprinted in their brains completely yet. ... When you’re working with adults, there’s a sense of hopelessness sometimes that kids don’t have yet. I keep reminding them, ‘You have your whole life ahead of you.’ You’re not that old when you’re 14,” she explained. Metzger leads group discussions and takes the teens on outings to kayak, play games and more. She also makes a point to speak with them about difficult but relevant topics like eating disorders. Having overcome her own eating disorder and substance abuse, her experiences help her find common ground with peers. “Growing up in the home I did in Columbia City, I relate to a lot of their stories. ... I get it, I get why you feel like you need to numb yourself and numb the pain.” Despite the myriad challenges, Metzger continues to persevere and do whatever she

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BALANCED — Certified Peer Recovery Coach and Peer Navigator Shelly Metzger is pictured in tree pose. Through L.I.T.E. Recovery Hub, she stands alongside people through their recovery journeys. She especially enjoys teaching fitness classes, finding exercise beneficial in her own recovery and in helping others with theirs. Photo provided by Shelly Metzger. can to prevent those in need from falling through cracks in the system. “I love seeing someone step into their recovery journey, seeing who they were always meant to be,” she said with a smile. Outside of work, Metzger runs Boundless, a group that hosts fitness events like hiking and horseback riding for people

in the recovery community. The group also fundraises for local causes through events like Glow Float and Headlamps and Hot Chocolate. Metzger’s chapter of R.I.S.E. meets 4-5 p.m. Wednesdays at Trinity United Methodist Church, 832 E. Center St., Warsaw. To learn more about Boundless, visit its Facebook group.

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Wednesday, January 7, 2026 — www.the-papers.com — ‘the PAPER’

Legislative updates affecting deductions, exemptions, credits

Donating blood could win earn trip to Super Bowl With winter weather causing a decline in blood donations, the American Red Cross is in critical need of donors and has scheduled three blood drives in the area. As an extra incentive to entice donors, anyone who gives blood from Jan. 1-25 will be automatically entered to win a trip for two to Super Bowl LX in California. One person and a guest could enjoy Super Bowl LX, access to day-of, in-stadium pregame activities, tickets to the official Super Bowl Experience, round-trip airfare to the San Francisco Bay area, three-night hotel accommodations (Feb. 6–9, 2026), plus a $1,000 gift card for expenses.

Blood Drives • 1-6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1101 N. 175E, Warsaw. Sponsor code: warsawlds. • Noon to 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, at Calvary United Methodist Church, 801 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. Sponsor code: calumc. • Noon to 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, at the Claywood Event Center, 13920 N. 1100W, Nappanee. Sponsor code: Nappanee. To schedule an appointment, visit this website and enter the sponsor code for the blood drive. For further information, visit redcrossblood.org.

recovery systems, deduction for wind power devices, deduction for hydroelectric power devices, deduction for geothermal devices, deduction for fertilizer and pesticide storage, deduction for personal property held as inventory are no longer in effect. Anyone receiving those deductions will see those automatically removed for the 2025 payable 2026 property tax cycle. There will be a phase-out of the Homestead Standard Deduction over the next five years but there will be an increase to the Supplemental Homestead Deduction occurring at the same time. Currently a property that is owner-occupied is eligible for a homestead deduction in the amount of the lesser of 60% of the assessed value or $48,000. For 2025 payable 2026 that will remain, but for 2026 payable 2027, the standard deduction will be $40,000 and continually decrease. At the same time, the Supplemental Homestead Deduction will increase. For 2025 payable 2026 the Supplemental Homestead will be a 40% reduction after the Homestead Standard is applied. For 2026 payable 2027

the Supplemental Homestead will be 46% after the Homestead Standard is applied. New legislation also approved a Supplemental Homestead Credit of a maximum of $300. This will be effective for the 2025 payable 2026 property tax cycle and will be applied to the property owners tax liability. As with the other Homestead Credit/Deductions, there is residency requirements and cannot be received on multiple properties. Properties that fall under the 2% property tax cap, residential property not claimed as a homestead, long term care properties and agricultural land will receive a new Circuit Breaker Credit. For 2025 payable 2026 the credit will be an automatic 6% reduction of the assessed value. That percentage will increase over the next several years ultimately with a reduction of 33.4%. The Kosciusko County Auditor’s Office is open to the public from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Residents are encouraged to call the Auditor’s Office at (574) 372-2316 with any questions or concerns.

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Continued from page 1 Food insecurity continues to rise as well. Our Father’s Pantry reports growing need as families struggle with higher rent, utility bills and grocery prices. Pantry leader Cheryl Zale said food and hygiene donations remain essential as more households seek assistance each week. “There’s a definite need in the community,” Zale said. “I hope 2026 is going to be better but the need is not going away. That’s for sure.” As nonprofits look ahead to 2026, leaders say there is no better time than the new year to help - and that every little bit still counts.

diana General Assembly, there was some confusion surrounding this deduction. In the end, the bill signed into law by Gov. Mike Braun remains the status quo. There are several deductions that have now expired. The Deduction for surviving spouses of World War 1 veterans, deduction for rehabilitation of residential real property, deduction for solar energy heating or cooling systems, deduction for solar power devices, deduction for resource

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the property. The newly instated Blind/Disabled Credit does not have an income limitation and the Auditor’s Office has opted to automatically transfer individuals currently receiving the Blind/ Disabled Deduction to the new credit. The income limitation has been removed from the new credit as well. The Veterans Deduction will remain the same for 2025 payable 2026. During the flurry of bills being approved by the In-

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Kosciusko County Auditor Alyssa Schmucker would like to make the taxpayers aware of changes in deductions, exemptions, and credits approved this year by the Indiana General Assembly. These changes will take effect for the 2025 payable 2026 property taxes with increases/ decreases occurring over the next five years. With so many changes that were made by the State Legislators during the past session, “we are giving a brief update explaining the deductions, credits, and exemptions that will be in effect. We encourage anyone with questions to reach out to the Auditor’s office,” said Schmucker. The Kosciusko County Auditor’s Office has been working diligently with its tax software provider, the Department of Local Government Finance, State Board of Accounts, and the Association of Indiana Counties to ensure it is compliant with the new statutes. There were many changes this past legislative session and the below information is a high-level overview of some of those changes that taxpayers will see for the 2025 payable 2026 property tax cycle. The Over 65 Deduction has transitioned to the new Over 65 Credit. The maximum amount of the credit is $150 that will be applied to the property tax owner’s tax liability instead of as a reduction of the assessed value of the property. Anyone currently receiving this benefit will not need to do anything as the Auditor’s Office has opted to automatically transfer individuals currently receiving the Over 65 Deduction to the new credit. The Over 65 Circuit Breaker Credit has been modified to increase the applicant’s federal adjusted gross income to single $60,000 married $70,000 and removes the assessed value limit that was previously applied to the credit. Unlike the Over 65 Credit, there will be an adjustment annually to the income threshold by an amount equal to the cost-of-living increase applied for Social Security benefits for the preceding year. If you are a single filer and your AGI is not over $60,000 you qualify for the credit and should contact the auditor’s office. If you are married joint filer and your AGI is not over $70,000.00 you qualify for the credit and should contact of office. The Blind/Disabled Deduction is also converted to the Blind/Disabled Credit of $125 that will be applied to the property tax owner’s tax liability instead of as a reduction to the assessed value of

www.the-papers.com — ‘the PAPER’ — Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Good Neighbors

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Good Neighbors is a column in which readers share friendly advice. To ask or answer questions, write the ‘the PAPER’, 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 now runs every other week. —o—

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EDITORIAL OFFICES, CIRCULATION, DISPLAY AND CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING WARSAW OFFICE 114 West Market St. Warsaw, IN 46580 Phone (574) 269-2932 Fax 888-371-2934

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

GIVING BACK — The Warsaw Rotary Club held its annual “Rotary Salvation Army Day” and collected $60,260.53 to support the efforts of The Salvation Army in Kosciusko County. Pictured from left are Alan Alderfer, John R. Hall, Envoy Ken Locke, Major Sanhty Thammavongsa, and Ben Rice. Photo provided by Warsaw Rotary Club.

Warsaw Rotary Club collects $60,260.53 for Salvation Army The Warsaw Rotary Club held its annual “Rotary Salvation Army Day” and collected $60,260.53 to support the efforts of The Salvation Army in Kosciusko County. 2025 marks the 60th anniversary of this event, which was first held in December 1965. The effort was established by N. Bruce Howe to honor Brigadier Brice Phillip-

Ben Rice thanked everyone who attended the meeting and for the donations given to this worthy cause. The club participated in its 98th Annual “Rotary Toy Day” earlier in the month collecting $773.70 worth of gifts to support Angel Tree and Veterans’ Christmas outreach.

SYRACUSE OFFICE 102 East Main St. Syracuse, IN 46567 Phone (574) 457-3666

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Publisher, Ron Baumgartner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . rbaumgartner@the-papers.com Business Manager, Annette Weaver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . aweaver@the-papers.com Editor-In-Chief, Deb Patterson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . dpatterson@the-papers.com Editor, Phoebe Muthart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pmuthart@the-papers.com Warsaw Office Manager, Mary Beth Spalding . . . . . . . . . . warsaw@the-papers.com Director Of Marketing, Kristin DeVittorio . . . . . . . . . . . . . kdevittorio@the-papers.com Advertising Representative, Carl Lauster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . clauster@the-papers.com Advertising Representative, Susan Stump . . . . . . . . . . . . . sstump@the-papers.com Circulation Manager, Jerry Long. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . jlong@the-papers.com Commercial Printing Sales Representative Rodger Salinas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . rsalinas@the-papers.com Commercial Printing Customer Service Katie Hurley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . khurley@the-papers.com Rich Krygowski . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .rkrygowski@the-papers.com DEADLINES Grocery Advertising & Ads Requiring Proofs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Thursday 4:00 p.m. Display Advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Friday 2:00 p.m. Classified Advertising & Cancellations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Friday 2:00 p.m. Display Ad Copy Changes And Cancellations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Friday 2:00 p.m. PRODUCTION ‘the PAPER’ is digitally composed on Macintosh Computers using Digital Technology’s Newspaper Publishing Suite Software and Photoshop software. Ads and ASCII (generic) text may be submitted on Jaz, Zip or floppy disks or can be PDF’d and e-mailed to adcomp@ the-papers.com. If you have any questions give us a call and we’ll walk you through it.

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son, a Rotarian and longtime Salvation Army officer. The event collected just over $800, which would have the buying power of $8,228 today. The celebration has continued over six decades with John R. Hall serving as co-chair and now Alan Alderfer and Envoy Ken Locke as current chairs. Club President

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Wednesday, January 7, 2026 — www.the-papers.com — ‘the PAPER’

Judge Karin McGrath appointed to Indiana Commission on Court Appointed Attorneys by Chief Justice Loretta Rush Chief Justice Loretta Rush of the Indiana Supreme Court has appointed Kosciusko County Superior Court 1 Judge Karin McGrath to serve on the Indiana Commission on Court Appointed Attorneys. The commission consists of 11 members: three appointed by the chief justice; three appointed by the governor; two

members of the Indiana House of Representatives appointed by the speaker of the House; and two members of the Senate appointed by the president pro tempore of the Senate. The commission is an independent judicial branch agency of the state of Indiana that has worked since 1989 to establish standards for public defense

Extension homemakers offering scholarships Students and adults are invited to apply for scholarships offered by the Kosciusko County Extension Homemakers. Applicants must be residents of Kosciusko County or current or former members of a Kosciusko County Purdue Extension organization, such as 4-H, master gardeners, or extension homemakers. Applicants may be any age and may be single or married. The Kosciusko County Extension Homemakers will award: • Two $1,000 scholarships to students attending a college or university, including those pursuing a two-year associate degree. • One $1,000 scholarship to a student seeking a certificate in a Career and Technical program. In addition, the State Extension Homemakers Association offers the following scholarships:

• Ruth B. Sayre Scholarship. • Steps to Success Scholarship. Fillable applications are available through high school counselors or the Kosciusko County Extension Office. To access applications online, visit extension.purdue.edu/county/kosciusko, select Kosciusko County 4-H, then 4-H scholarship information, and choose Kosciusko County Extension Homemakers Scholarship Application. Applications may also be requested by contacting the extension office at graff8@purdue.edu. A career advancement scholarship is also available for Extension Homemakers Club members, who are 25 years of age or older. This application can be found on the Indiana Extension Homemakers Association website, ieha-families.org. All applications must be postmarked by March 16, 2026, and sent to: Judy Egolf 3613 W. Old Road 30, Warsaw, IN 46580.

services and to facilitate partial reimbursement for counties that meet those standards. The commission supports and encourages counties to provide effective, legally sound public defense by tying state funding to adherence to quality standards. The commission is currently mandated to: • Make recommendations to the Indiana Supreme Court regarding standards for indigent defense services for defendants facing the death penalty. • Adopt guidelines and standards for indigent defense services under which counties are eligible for reimbursement. • Make recommendations concerning the delivery of indigent defense services in Indiana.

• Make an annual report to the governor, the General Assembly, and the Indiana Supreme Court on the operation of the public defense fund. McGrath has presided over Kosciusko Superior Court 1 since her appointment by thenGov. Eric Holcomb in 2021. She was instrumental in establishing the Kosciusko County Public Defender’s Office and also established the Kosciusko County Reentry Court. “I am honored by this appointment, and I look forward to working with the other members of the commission and having the opportunity to provide input as a trial court judge working with public defenders on a daily basis,” McGrath said.

Next Free Community Dinner in Pierceton set for Jan. 15 The next Free Community Dinner in Pierceton will be held Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026. The drive-thru-only dinner will start at 5 p.m. in the parking lot of St. Francis Xavier Parish, 408 W. Catholic St., Pierceton. On the menu will be chili, cornbread, crackers, vegetable, fruit and cookies. The meal will be packaged in a carryout container, ready to take home and eat. The organizing committee

said in a news release that it is pleased with the number of people served by the drive-thru dinner. “So many of our customers take home dinners to others who cannot get out this time of year. We feel very blessed that this has been a successful option for us,” the committee wrote. The meal is free, but donations are accepted and will go toward the cost of the Free Community Dinner in March.

KOSCIUSKO SUPERIOR COURT 1 JUDGE KARIN MCGRATH

Lions fish fry Jan. 10 The Silver Lake Lions Club is hosting a fish, chicken and tenderloin fry from 4 p.m. until sold out Saturday, Jan. 10, at the Sil-

ver Lake Conservation Building. This is carryout only and the cost is $12 per pound. Side dishes will be available.

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www.the-papers.com — ‘the PAPER’ — Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office hires Bradyn Fennell as merit deputy By BRIANNA WHITE Staff Writer The Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office Merit Board voted to hire Bradyn Fennell as a merit deputy during a meeting Monday, Dec. 29. Fennell says he is “excited” for the new opportunity. He has worked for Kosciusko County Jail for the last two years. According to LT. Mike Mulligan, patrol division commander, Fennell had excellent references and his superiors at the jail spoke highly of his work ethic and conduct.

Fennell has 28 weeks of training ahead of him. This includes 16 weeks at the academy, followed by 12 weeks in the FTO stage, shadowing a Field Training Officer. Mulligan believes that Fennell will be “on the road” and able to start working independently by Aug. 1, 2026. Other Business Rick Shepherd is retiring as resource officer at Tippecanoe Valley School Corporation. He will be the first officer to qualify for the new COLA pension program. Shepherd will be replaced as TVSC Resource Officer by Mason Teel, a TVSC graduate.

DEPUTY BRADYN FENNELL

Michelle Hyden, matron of the Kosciusko County Jail, reported that the jail has saved at least $350,000 by changing their food supplier at the jail. She said that the jail has not received their bill for December yet, so she will not have the final total until January. The sheriff’s office partnered with the Kosciusko County Highway Department in 2025 to use the same mechanic service. There have not been notable savings, but Sheriff Jim Smith said he is looking forward to seeing the savings in 2026. Mulligan said that the patrol officers

have appreciated the change because “it’s quick … They show up and 25 minutes later they’re done with an oil change and a service.” The council voted to keep their meeting schedule the same for 2026, so they will continue to meet on the second Thursday of the month at 11 a.m., or 11:30 a.m. if there is an executive meeting preceding the regular session. Smith said, “I thank everyone for another successful year … I truly believe the people of Kosciusko County are in good hands.”

Manchester University hosts annual alumni speaker series in 2026

SERVICE AWARD — John Snyder, left, smiles as Warsaw Community High School Principal Troy Akers, middle, shares kind words about Snyder with Wawasee High School Principal Geoff Walmer, right. Snyder was presented with the Northern Lakes Conference Service Award prior to the basketball game between Wawasee and Warsaw Friday, Dec. 19. Photo by Nathan Pace.

John Snyder honored with NLC Service Award By NATHAN PACE Staff Writer Prior to the boys basketball game between Warsaw and Wawasee Friday, Dec. 19, a special presentation was held for John Snyder at the Tiger Den. Snyder retired this year as assistant principal at Wawasee High School but the majority of his 37-year career in education

was spent at Warsaw Community High School. For his outstanding service to Warsaw Community High School, Wawasee Community High School and to the Northern Lakes Conference, Snyder was presented the NLC Service Award. “I’m just humbled to stand before you tonight,” Snyder said. “I want to say if you cut me open, I

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still bleed orange and black, but the last six years have proven there is a big place in my heart for green and gold.” Warsaw principal Troy Akers and Wawasee principal Geoff Walmer were on hand for the award ceremony and both thanked Snyder for his career in education. His wife, Reisa, a retired teacher and professor, was also recognized and applauded by both Warsaw and Wawasee fans. “My greatest joys in life have been serving the people of Kosciusko County,” Snyder said. Wawasee would go on to win the varsity game at Warsaw 4233.

Manchester University’s Office of Alumni Relations will host four virtual events during January and February showcasing alumni and student stories. All events will be held at 7 p.m. on Microsoft Teams. Links will be sent via email after registration. Tuesday, Jan. 13: Dr. Jeff Easley. Easley, class of 1983, experienced a life-changing opportunity when he went on the second-ever Medical Practicum trip as a student. Hear how that trip helped shape his career in medicine. Tuesday, Jan. 20: Connor Eichenauer. Eichenauer, class of 2019, will share about his journey completing a Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology at Michigan State University, as well as his career in talent management with GE Aerospace. Hear how his time at Manchester continues to influence his work designing talent assessment tools that ensure GE Aerospace has the right talent, in the right place, at the right time. Tuesday, Jan. 27: Megan Pierce. Pierce holds the world record for the largest collection of Joker memorabilia, with more than 2,300 pieces. She will share about her unique hobby and the process of getting the record. Tuesday, Feb. 3: Students who participated in January Session Travel Course to Nepal. Hear from students who participated in the January Session travel course to Nepal. They will share about peace building outside of the context of the United States and the recent “Gen-Z Revolution” led by young Nepali people seeking change.

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Yakym announces January mobile office hours Congressman Rudy Yakym announced the following dates, times, and locations his office will be holding mobile staff office hours in January throughout Indiana’s Second District. Mobile office hours are designed to be respectful, one-on-one conversations with the congressman’s team, primarily for federal casework assistance. These are not town halls and disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated. Elkhart County • 1-2:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 15, Nappanee City Hall, 300 W. Lincoln St., Nappanee. Kosciusko County • Noon to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, Bell Memorial Public Library, 101 W. Main St., Mentone. • 9-10:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 23, Kosciusko County Justice Building, basement conference room, 121 N. Lake St., Warsaw.

Letter from EquityProtect is legitimate Recently the Kosciusko County Recorder’s Office announced it partnered with EquityProtect, to help protect residents to combat the ongoing threat of home title theft. EquityProtect has sent out letters to some homeowners. The county recorder’s office has received a number of phone calls regarding the legality of these letters. County Recorder Deb Wright stated the letters are legitimate. While there are other companies that offer the same protection, county homeowners who choose to use EquityProtect receive its services at a reduced cost to the homeowner.

Wednesday, January 7, 2026 — www.the-papers.com — ‘the PAPER’

EXPLORING THE FUTURE — Madison Elementary students examine a Slate electric truck that was wearing a Christmas sweater design. Photo provided by Warsaw Community Schools.

CLOSE-UP LOOK — Students get a close-up view of the front of the truck, which says Slate on the grille. Photo provided by Warsaw Community Schools.

Madison students get look at Slate electric truck Before winter break began, students at Madison Elementary School in Warsaw got to check out an electric truck from Slate.

The kids loved that the truck was “wearing” a Christmas sweater, a special pattern that looked like a knitted sweater

applied to the body of the truck. Slate will begin producing electric trucks after its new Warsaw manufacturing facility

is ready. Madison Elementary School is a science, technology, engineering and math certified school,

and having Slate right down the road will be an asset toward enhancing student learning, according to the school.

Braun, Rokita seek to lift order blocking Ten Commandments Monument Indiana is asking a federal judge to lift a more than 20-yearold court order that has blocked the installation of a limestone Ten Commandments monument on Statehouse grounds, arguing that intervening U.S. Supreme Court rulings have changed how such displays are evaluated under the Constitution. In a motion filed Monday, Dec. 29 in U.S. District Court for Southern Indiana, the state said the legal framework used in 2001 to bar the monument is no longer valid. Indiana contends that the Supreme Court has since moved away from the so-called Lemon test, which focused on whether government actions advanced religion, and has instead emphasized historical tradition when assessing Establishment Clause cases. The monument, weighing about 11,500 pounds, was accepted by the state in 2000 as a gift from the Indiana limestone industry. It includes inscriptions of the Ten Commandments, the Bill of Rights, the preamble to the 1851 Indiana Constitution and a dedication. Plans to place it outside the Statehouse were halted

after civil liberties groups sued, and the injunction was upheld by the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. The Supreme Court later declined to hear the case. Gov. Mike Braun and Attorney General Todd Rokita sup-

port relocating the monument from Bedford to the Statehouse grounds, describing it as a historical marker consistent with other displays recognizing foundational documents. The state argues the injunction improperly limits the

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www.the-papers.com — ‘the PAPER’ — Wednesday, January 7, 2026

OBituaries John Ready

Larry Gordon Herendeen

Retired From South Bend Tribune

United States Army Veteran Larry Gordon Herendeen, 81, North Manchester, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025, at his residence. He was born April 19, 1944, at home in Silver Lake, to Gordon K. and Lillie L. (Hamilton) Herendeen. Larry graduated from Silver Lake High LARRY GORDON School in 1962. Before his service in the United HERENDEEN States Army, where he was drafted in 1965 and served honorably as a heavy machine operator in Korea, Larry worked at Sell’s Oil Company. His career as a mechanic spanned several notable companies, including Tri-State Harvester, Wabash Portable, Gragg Equipment and ultimately, he retired from Indiana Coated Fabrics in 2010. On April 5, 1969, Larry married Peggy Winger, with whom he shared a loving marriage for 56 years. Together, they nurtured a family that included their two children, Brent and Shelly. Larry cherished the joys of fatherhood and took immense pride in his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A man of many interests, Larry had a passion for restoring tractors and building cannons in his spare time. He was known for his sense of humor and his preference for home, although he and Peggy did enjoy traveling together later in life, always looking forward to returning to the comfort of their home. The loving memory of Larry Herendeen will be forever cherished by his wife, Peggy Herendeen, North Manchester; children, Shelly (David) Strobel, North Manchester, and Brent (Lora) Herendeen, Mentone; two grandchildren, Caitlyn (Jared) Monce and Grant Strobel; and two great-grandchildren. Larry was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Tommy “Tom” Herendeen and Richard Herendeen; and sister, Linda K. Hamilton. The family will grieve privately. For those who wish to honor the memory of Larry Herendeen, memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant Township Fire Department, 10459 N. Ogden Road, Laketon, IN 46943. The family of Larry Herendeen has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements. Condolences may be shared at mckeemortuary.com.

Timothy Baker

Timothy Baker, 44, Warsaw, died Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025, at Mason Health and Rehab. Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.

Garry Bickel

Garry Bickel, 70, Syracuse, died Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, at Community Hospital North in Indianapolis. Arrangements are currently pending at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse.

Maxine Burwell

Maxine Burwell, 105, Albion, died Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, in her residence. Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.

Charles Jones

Charles Jones, Dewart Lake, died Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in his home. Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse.

Births Cooper Edward Deters

was 20 inches long.

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Clayton and Natasha Deters, North Webster, are the parents of a son, Cooper Edward, born at 9:22 p.m. Dec. 23, 2025, at Goshen Hospital. He weighed 5 pounds, 12.6 ounces, and was 18 1/2 inches long.

Aaron and Regina (Miller) Schwartz, Etna Green, are the parents of a son, Logan Cade, born at 7:58 a.m. Dec. 28, 2025. He weighed 7 pounds, 5 ounces.

John and Karen (Borkholder) Schwartz, Nappanee, are the parents of a daughter, Martha Ann, born at 7:23 a.m. Dec. 26, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 7 pounds, 7 ounces, and

Marvin and Joetta Hostetler, Goshen, are the parents of a son, Brent Elias, born at 5:05 a.m. Dec. 31, 2025, at Goshen Hospital. He weighed 9 pounds, 5.9 ounces, and was 21 1/2 inches long.

Martha Ann Schwartz

Brent Elias Hostetler

John Ready, 89, was ushered into the arms of his Savior on New Year’s Day, Jan. 1, 2026. He was born July 7, 1936, in South Bend, and was the son of Alvin and Helen (Gordy) Ready. John worked for the South Bend Tribune in the circulation department as a district manager for 36 years. After retiring from the Tribune, he JOHN READY went to work in the circulation department for The Papers in Milford. On Sept. 17, 1983, he married Kaye. They shared 42 wonderful years of marriage; Kaye survives. John was very outgoing, compassionate and opinionated. John enjoyed boating and water skiing on the Lake of the Woods. He shared his passion for the water with his children and grandchildren, teaching them how to water ski. After retiring from the newspaper, he took up long-distance bike riding. He pedaled his way through Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio, Illinois and Michigan. John also enjoyed gardening, especially corn, and his extra produce would often find its way to the Neighborhood Center. He is survived by his wife, Kaye of Plymouth; son, Jon (Sue) Ready of Arizona; daughter, Janey (Don) Green of Plymouth; stepchildren, Tom (Carol) Lenker of Texas, Charles (Mini) Lenker of Utah, Peggy (Dave) Couture of Fort Wayne and Yvonne Comeno of Plymouth; mother of his children, Pat Barnhart of Plymouth; as well as several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. John is preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Kathleen Reaker; brother, George Ready; and his sister, Mary Carpenter. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8, at the Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan St., Plymouth. Funeral services will immediately follow with Pastor Scott Yoder officiating. Burial will take place in New Oak Hill Cemetery, Plymouth. Memorial contributions can be made to Crossroads Church, 1650 N. Oak Drive, Plymouth, IN 46563, or to the Marshall County Humane Society, P.O. Box 22, Plymouth, IN 46563. Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences can be left for the family at johnson-danielson.com.

Students named to dean’s/ honor’s list The following local students were recently named to the dean’s list of their respective colleges/ universities. This recognition requires the student to obtain a 3.50 GPA or higher for the semester and carry a minimum of 12 credit hours. Cedarville University Warsaw — Colton Martin The following local students were recently named to the dean’s honor list of their respective colleges/universities. This recognition requires the student to obtain a 3.75 GPA or higher for the semester and carry a minimum of 12 credit hours. Cedarville University Wakarusa — Nathanael Braun Warsaw — Aidan Bowell

COunty repOrt Court News Small Claims

The following small claims have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Snow and Sauerteig LLP v. Ashley Garber, $8,046.40; v. Kelli Hamilton, $2,596.57; v. Courtney King, $5,184.58; v. Travis Kirkdorffer, $1,394.39

Civil Collections

The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler presiding: Turkey Creek Fire Territory v. Zachary Anderson, $2,222.10 21st Mortgage Corp. v. Breanna Lucille Breece, Timothy Scott Vermillion, $66,820.98 Mariner Finance LLC v. William E. Roark, $4,067.56

Mortgage Foreclosures

The following mortgage foreclosure has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Lakeview Loan Servicing LLC v. Benjamin Jones, $120,775.46

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Evictions

The following evictions have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Lakeland Villa Apartments v. James D. Aikin, $4,065.60 Webster Estates LLC v. Amanda and Richard Rollins, $1,226.64

Superior Court III

The following fines and costs for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Speeding - Logan L. Kim, Warsaw, $164.50; Jose M. Gomez, Warsaw, $164.50; Danny D. Ransbottom, Claypool, $164.50; Pamela J. Pinkowski, Bourbon, $164.50; Nathan M. Pugh, Pierceton, $164.50; Michael L. Wippel, Milford, $164.50; Victor N. Lozano Chavez, Warsaw, $164.50; Samuel R. Jenkins, Bourbon, $164.50; Derek W. Coy, Pierceton, $164.50; Lucas D. Walters, Warsaw, $164.50; Tressa W. Nichols, North Webster, $164.50; Logan J. Wenger, Leesburg, $164.50; Miguel E. Pacheco, Warsaw, $164.50; Sandra Long, Akron, $164.50; Kevin D. Mickem, Leesburg, $164.50; James S. Lewis, North Manchester, $164.50; Carly R. Click, Warsaw, $164.50; Daniel E. Blair, Warsaw, $164.50 Passing in a no-passing zone Nikhil K. Narra, Warsaw, $164.50 Disregarding stop sign, learner’s permit violation - Zachary L. Lehman, Nappanee, $189.50 Failure of occupant to use a safety belt - Ricki L. Antonucci, Leesburg, $25; Timothy J. Nussbaum,

Warsaw, $25; Sean A. Shepherd, Warsaw, $25; Joshua D. Ogden, Winona Lake, $25; Wayne J. Owensby, Mentone, $25 Fishing without a license - Joseph E. Holloway, Warsaw, $164 Holding or using a telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle - Hannah R. Eberly, Silver Lake, $164.50; Candida A. Ramos, Warsaw, $164.50; Brianna C. Fernandez, Warsaw, $164.50 Failure of occupant to use a safety belt, holding or using a telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle - Jeffrey D. Carey, Leesburg, $189.50 No valid driver’s license - Ana Lilia Sifuentes Ceballos, Leesburg, $164.50 Operating a commercial motor vehicle without periodic inspection, operating with expired plates, no/improper securement of vehicles - Jeff A. Holle, Syracuse, $264.50 Disregarding lighted signal - Douglas M. Cruz, North Manchester, $164.50; Tiffany Ngo, Warsaw, $164.50 Unsafe lane movement - Derek L. Beachler, Claypool, $164.50 Taking more than one antlered deer - Jacob Schwartz, Etna Green, $164 Hunting without wearing hunter orange when required Nathan W. Lambert, Syracuse, $25; Joel D. Miller, Syracuse, $25 Failure to register - Ashley A. Sprunger, Warsaw, $164.50

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Wednesday, January 7, 2026 — www.the-papers.com — ‘the PAPER’

Primary election filing to begin While some candidates have announced their intentions, filing for the 2026 primary election will

officially begin at 8 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7. The final day to file is noon Friday, Feb. 6.

Local offices on the primary ballot will include: Judge, Kosciusko Superior

Brown wins APAI Unsung Hero Award By MAKSYM HART Staff Writer Dan Brown, former president of paving contractor Phend & Brown, was honored Thursday, Dec. 11, with the Asphalt Pavement Association of Indiana’s Unsung Hero Award during the APAI Winter Conference and Expo at the Horizon Convention Center in Muncie. The Unsung Hero Award is a peer-driven recognition presented to individuals who have made long-term, behind-the-scenes contributions to Indiana’s asphalt industry. Brown’s sister, Becky Alles, said the award represents one of the highest compliments a professional can receive. “This is his peers recognizing his selfless use of his expertise,” she said. “There’s no greater compliment than for your peers to say you’ve been doing a good job.” The APAI award’s inscription commended Brown for “more than five decades of exceptional service to the association and the asphalt industry, through leadership on the Board of Directors and committees, commitment to training and outreach and unwavering advocacy for asphalt pavement.” His brother Doug Brown said Dan Brown had been active in numerous committees and leadership roles. “He’s been involved with that for 50 years,” Doug Brown said. “He’s been very active and instrumental in helping the state of Indiana develop asphalt paving technology and methods.” Dan Brown ran the asphalt division of Phend & Brown for much of his career, while his brothers focused on other areas of the family business. Doug Brown described his brother as a “wealth of knowledge” in both the operational and technical sides of asphalt paving, as well as a familiar and respected figure among contractors and state officials. “He knows everybody,” Doug Brown said. “Anybody involved in the Asphalt Pavement Association of Indiana knows Dan.” Beyond the job, Dan Brown was heavily involved in legislative and regulatory advocacy, working with state lawmakers and members of Congress on highway funding and infrastructure policy. Much of Phend & Brown’s work involved Indiana Department of Transportation projects, which often placed Dan Brown in contact with state officials. “He was very well known with the INDOT people,” Doug Brown said. “They all recognized his accomplishments.” While modest by nature, Doug Brown said the recognition clearly meant a great deal to him. “That’s been his life,” he said. “Road construction and asphalt paving.” A Milford native and 1968 Milford High School graduate, Brown earned a civil engineering degree from Purdue University before joining the family business founded by Harry Phend and his grandfather, Ronald Brown in 1922. He became president of the com-

pany in 1995 and retired from that role in 2021, following the firm’s 100th anniversary celebration.

Now 75, Brown remains active in the Milford community and contractors associations.

UNSUNG HERO AWARD — Dan Brown holds the Asphalt Pavement Association of Indiana’s Unsung Hero Award during the APAI Winter Conference and Expo at the Horizon Convention Center in Muncie on Thursday, Dec. 11. Brown was recognized for over five decades of experience and service, including as president of his family’s paving business Phend & Brown and the APAI’s Board of Directors in 1986. Photo from APAI’s official Facebook Page via Becky Alles. STATE OF INDIANA KOSCIUSKO COUNTY SS: BEFORE THE KOSCIUSKO COUNTY COMMISSIONERS IN RE: PETITION TO VACATE A PUBLIC WAY, Moises Sanchez Delgadillo, Petitioner(s). NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING UPON PETITION FOR VACATION OF PUBLIC WAY NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Moises Sanchez Delgadillo, as Petitioner(s), have filed a verified Petition to Vacate a Public Way with the Kosciusko County Commissioners seeking the vacation of a public way, which Petition has been set for hearing before the Kosciusko County Commissioners on the 27th day of January, 2026 at 9:15 A.M. The hearing will be held in the old Courtroom, which is located on the third floor of the Kosciusko County Courthouse, 100 West Center Street, Warsaw, Indiana 46580. The public way for which vacation is sought, is situate in Kosciusko County, State of Indiana, and is more particularly described as follows, to-wit: CENTER STREET VACATION DESCRIPTION The right-of-way of Center Street in the Original Plat of the Town of Wooster, Indiana, to be vacated as described as follows: Bounded on the South by the North lines of Lots 1 and 2 in Block 9 in the Original Plat of the Town of Wooster, Indiana; bounded on the West by the West line of Lot 2 extended North; bounded on the North the South line of Lots 7 and 8 of said Plat; bounded on the East by the extend East line of said Lot 1. Subject to all covenants, easements, or restrictions of record and all applicable building and zoning laws and ordinances and possible rights of tile and drainage ditches. AND UNCLAIMED PARCEL A tract of land located North and adjacent to Lots Number 1 & 2 in Block 9 in the Original Plat of the Town of Wooster, Indiana, more particularly described as follows: Beginning at the Northeast corner of Property owned by Moises Sanchez Delgadillo as described in Document Number 2023110871 in the Recorders Office of Kosciusko County, Indiana thence North 70˚37’54” West, along the North line of said Delgadillo parcel, 131.86 feet to the Northwest corner said Delgadillo parcel, marked by a 5/8” Rebar; thence North 18˚25’30” East, 65.99 feet, to the Southwest corner of Property owned by Julie Martinez & Ryan Craft as described in Document Number 202504863 in the Recorders Office of Kosciusko County, Indiana,marked by a 1/2” Rebar; thence South 70˚38’08” East, along the South line of said Martinez & Craft parcel, 132.00 feet, to the Southeast corner of said Martinez & Craft parcel; thence South 18˚32’51” West, 66.00 feet to the Point of Beginning, 0.20 acres more or less. Subject to all covenants, easements, or restrictions of record and all applicable building and zoning laws and ordinances and possible rights of tile and drainage ditches. ANY PERSON desiring to be heard may file an objection or comments with the Auditor of Kosciusko County, Indiana or with the Kosciusko County Area Plan Commission, and any person may appear at said hearing and be heard in support of or objection to the Petition filed herein. The hearing may be continued by the Kosciusko County Commissioners without further public notice. A copy of the Petition is on file in the Office of the Auditor of Kosciusko County, Indiana. Dated: 12/19/25 Kosciusko County Commissioners Alyssa Schmucker, Auditor Kosciusko County

Court 1, held by Karin McGrath Judge, Kosciusko Superior Court 2, held by Torrey Bauer Judge, Kosciusko Superior Court 3, held by Chad M. Miner Judge, Kosciusko Superior Court 4, held by Christopher D. Kehler County auditor, held by Alyssa Schmucker County recorder, held by Deborah Wright County sheriff, held by Jim Smith County assessor, held by Gail Chapman County commissioner, Southern District, held by Robert Conley County Council seats up for election include: District 1, held by Kim Cates District 2, held by Joe Irwin District 3, held by Toy Ciriello District 4, held by Dave Wolkins Additionally, all township trustees and three seats on each township advisory board will be up for election. Town Elections Two local towns will also hold elections: Milford clerk-treasurer, held by Trisha Gall, and three at-large town council seats held by Doug Ruch, Ken Long and James Smiley. Syracuse Town Council, two atlarge seats currently held by Paul Stoelting and Larry Siegel. Winona Lake Town Council, District 3, held by Jim Lancaster, and District 5, held by Jason Zaugg. Election of party offices for Democratic precinct committeemen and state convention delegates for both the Republican and Democratic parties will also appear on the primary ballot.

Not on the primary ballot, but appearing on the November general election ballot, will be the election of school board members for Warsaw, Tippecanoe Valley, WaNee, Wawasee, Whitko and Triton schools. More details on those seats will be made available prior to the start of filing May 15. Candidates seeking placement on the ballot can find required forms on the Kosciusko County elections website under candidate and ballot information. Due dates for pre-primary and pre-election campaign finance reports are listed, along with links to the Indiana campaign finance manual and campaign finance information from the Indiana secretary of state’s office. Links are available for the following forms: primary declaration of candidacy; primary election declaration of candidacy for precinct committeeman and state convention delegate; general election petition for candidacy for school board office; and statements of economic interest for local and school board candidates. A 2026 Indiana Election Calendar is also available for download and includes important election dates and information throughout the year. This information is available at kosciusko.in.gov under the elections tab. Additional election-related information is also available, including voter registration deadlines for the primary and general elections, county election board members, early voting details, and poll worker training. A list of vote centers will be published once locations are approved.

STATE OF INDIANA KOSCIUSKO COUNTY SS: BEFORE THE KOSCIUSKO COUNTY COMMISSIONERS IN RE: PETITION TO VACATE A PUBLIC WAY, Zorn Family Living Trust, Petitioner(s). NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING UPON PETITION FOR VACATION OF PUBLIC WAY NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Zorn Family Living Trust, as Petitioner(s), have filed a verified Petition to Vacate a Public Way with the Kosciusko County Commissioners seeking the vacation of a public way, which Petition has been set for hearing before the Kosciusko County Commissioners on the 27th day of January, 2026 at 9:15 A.M. The hearing will be held in the old Courtroom, which is located on the third floor of the Kosciusko County Courthouse, 100 West Center Street, Warsaw, Indiana 46580. The public way for which vacation is sought, is situate in Kosciusko County, State of Indiana, and is more particularly described as follows, to-wit: The Town Plat of Wooster and Hoover & Harbaugh’s Addition to Wooster as shown in Plat Book #1 page 27 and Plat Book #1 page 30 respectively. The 16.5 foot alley between the South line of Lots #1 and #2 in Block 6 of Hoover & Harbaugh’s Addition to Wooster through Lots #3 and #4 in Block 6 of the Town Plat of Wooster and the North line of Lots #5 and #6 in Block 6 of the Town Plat of Wooster thru Lots #7 and #8 in Block 6 of Hoover & Harbaugh’s Addition to Wooster, from the West lines of Lot #4 and Lot #5 in Block 6 of the Town Plat of Wooster to the East lines of Lot #1 and Lot #8 in Block #6 in the Town Plat of Wooster. The 16.5-foot alley between the East line of Lot #3 and Lot #6 in Block 6 of the Town Plat of Wooster to the West line of Lot #2 and Lot #7 in Block 6 of Hoover & Harbaugh’s Addition to Wooster, from the South line of said Lot #6 and Lot #7 to the North line of said Lot #2 and Lot #3. The Platted Chester Street from the South line of Lot #8 in Block #6 and the South line of Lot #5 in of Hoover & Harbaugh’s Addition to Wooster to the North line of Lot #4 in Block #15 and Lot #1 Block #6 in said Hoover & Harbaugh’s Addition. The 16.5 foot alley from the South line of Lots #1, #2, #3 and #4 in Block #15 of Hoover & Harbaugh’s Addition to Wooster to the North line of Lots #5, #6, #7 and #8 in said Block #15 of Hoover & Harbaugh’s Addition to Wooster, from the West line of said Lot #4 and Lot #5 to the East line of said Lot #1 and Lot #8. The 16.5 foot alley from the East line of Lot #3 and Lot #6 in Block #15 to the West line of Lot #2 and Lot #7 in said Block #15, from the South line of said Lot #6 and Lot #7 to the North line of Lot #2 and Lot #3 in said Block #15 of said Hoover & Harbaugh’s Addition. Part of Center Street Right-of-Way from 30 feet South of the South lines of Lots #7 and #8 in said Block #15 and from the East line of Lot #6 in Block #15 extended South 30 feet to the East line of Lot #8 in said Block #15 extended 30 feet South. ANY PERSON desiring to be heard may file an objection or comments with the Auditor of Kosciusko County, Indiana or with the Kosciusko County Area Plan Commission, and any person may appear at said hearing and be heard in support of or objection to the Petition filed herein. The hearing may be continued by the Kosciusko County Commissioners without further public notice. A copy of the Petition is on file in the Office of the Auditor of Kosciusko County, Indiana. Dated: 12/19/25 Kosciusko County Commissioners Alyssa Schmucker, Auditor Kosciusko County

www.the-papers.com — ‘the PAPER’ — Wednesday, January 7, 2026

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www.the-papers.com — ‘the PAPER’ — Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Spencer Bartlett selected as Clay Township Trustee By BRIANNA WHITE Staff Writer Spencer Bartlett was chosen to be Clay Township Trustee during a caucus Tuesday, Dec. 30. The Kosciusko County Republican Party held the caucus for the Clay Township Trustee seat, with the candidates being Bartlett and Cheryl Thompson. Stephanie Stutzman announced her resignation as trustee at the beginning of December. Her resignation will be effective as of Wednesday, Dec. 31. Bartlett is the fourth Clay Township trustee in less than four years, according to Kosciusko County GOP Chairman Mike Ragan, who joked that it was becoming “habit forming” to do trustee caucuses in Clay Township. Bartlett was sworn in by Party Secretary Austin Rovenstine once

the votes were tallied and the results announced. Bartlett said, “I view serving as a trustee as a way to demonstrate gratitude and give back to our community … As Clay Township Trustee, I’ll prioritize transparency, accountability, and responsibility.” Additionally, he said that he is “deeply appreciative of our township’s volunteer fire department and their response to our family’s 911 call at our home in 2023 when we experienced an electrical fire in our small barn… I’ll support our local first responders and township officials to ensure that our community remains a safe and welcoming place to live.” Bartlett has lived in Clay Township since 2016 and is a father of four. He has a background working in IT software consulting and has experience in finance.

SWORN IN — Spencer Bartlett, left, was sworn in as Clay Township Trustee by Kosciusko County Republican Party Secretary Austin Rovenstine. Photo by Brianna White.

Hoosiers encouraged to join annual civic engagement program Thanks to funding from the Indianapolis Foundation and generous private donors, the Indiana Community Action Poverty Institute announced that their annual, non-partisan civic participation program - Get IN-VOLVED - will be back in 2026. The program encourages Hoosiers across the state to connect with their legislators and engage in policy advocacy on whatever topic is meaningful to them by offering skill-building activities that make engagement easier. Following a year of major, often-contentious policy changes, the In-

stitute’s upcoming program is a critical tool to empower Hoosiers across the state to exercise their civic rights. “We all want our needs to be heard, and the beauty of a democracy is in being able to share those needs with legislators for policy action,” said Erin Macey, director at the Indiana Community Action Poverty Institute. “We hear from Hoosiers that it can feel daunting to engage with elected officials, so we see this non-partisan program as filling a critical community need in providing the educational tools necessary to engage with

legislators on topics of community importance. By providing a space that focuses on the logistics of civic engagement without partisanship, we are able to uplift and amplify community voices so that community members and legislators can collaborate more effectively, creating a win-win.” In 2025, the Get IN-Volved program featured three core trainers who offered lessons and bonus challenges on a range of topics from writing letters to the editor to tracking a bill through the legislative process. In 2026, the Institute is building out new and

improved bite-sized trainings, such as understanding budgetary implications of bills and why committees matter. As in past years, those who successfully complete the challenges associated with the weekly lessons can win prizes. This year, the challenge will also feature optional Zoom calls to ask questions and learn new skills. “Complexity can be a barrier to access for engaging with the policy process, and we hope that this series of lessons will break down the barriers to ensure that everyone feels able to participate in state and local government,” said Olivia Smith, lead trainer for last summer’s Get IN-Volved series and policy analyst at the Indiana Com-

munity Action Poverty Institute. “I am excited to be taking the lessons learned from our summer session of Get IN-Volved and bringing them to a new audience this New Year with Get IN-Volved 2026.” Last year, the program saw 41 participants complete 284 civic engagement challenges. This year, organizers of Get IN-Volved hope to reach at least 100 participants. Interested individuals can register for the program online. Local businesses interested in donating toward the prize pool can reach out to institute@incap. org with details, or individuals can donate to support the program through the Institute’s donation page.

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