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Inside Kosciusko County’s GROWING APPETITE FOR FOOD TRUCKS
Text and Photos
By MAKSYM HART Staff Writer
Food trucks are rising in popularity across Kosciusko County, offering both entrepreneurs and customers a fresh alternative to traditional dining.
From first-time operators to established vendors, mobile kitchens are quickly becoming a staple of the local food scene, especially with new state legislation and local support making it easier to get rolling.
Josh Nibert, owner of the soon-to-launched Blank Slate Food Truck, said he was drawn to the flexibility and affordability food trucks offer.
Nibert, who has worked in both restaurants and manufacturing, said starting a truck felt like the right move after years of dreaming about running his own restaurant. He plans to serve a rotating seasonal menu, with summer items, like barbecue, pasta, sandwiches, and salads.
“I didn’t want to wait any longer to start something,” he said.
Stories like Nibert’s are becoming increasingly common in Indiana. According to Grand View Research, food trucks are one of the fastest-growing small business concepts in the country.
In response to this boom, Indiana lawmakers recently passed House Enrolled Act 1577, which, upon taking full effect in 2027, allows vendors to operate statewide
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FOOD TRUCKS AT MILFORD Events, such as Milford’s Food Truck Friday, bring together local entrepreneurs and fans of fresh food experiences in Kosciusko County.
SERVING UP SMILES Josh Nibert delivers food for the soon-to-open Blank Slate Food Truck near Oswego. The mobile vendor, that will serve up different seasonal menus, is part of the growing trend of food trucks in the area.
under a single mobile retail food establishment license, replacing the need for separate county-by-county permits.
The application fee will be capped at $450.
“We’re making it as easy as possible to own and operate a business, no matter where you are in the state,” said Rep. Joanna King, R-Middlebury, who authored the bill.
Locally, the Kosciusko County Health Department oversees inspections and permits. Daily food permits are $15, while yearly per-
mits cost $50, both plus postage.
To qualify for a yearly permit, vendors must secure a commissary, typically a restaurant kitchen, for food preparation and cleaning. Kosciusko County currently has 66 such “mobile units” with yearly permits.
Desiree Ponsler, environmental food specialist with the Kosciusko County, said inspections are performed before permits are issued and at events when possible.
“We don’t make it out to every event, but we try,” she said. “(For daily permits) you can’t just set
up anywhere, you have to be part of an event, like a fair or festival.”
The Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce has also welcomed the trend.
“We have a healthy rotation of food trucks at our events, but we welcome all new food trucks of any kind,” said Nora Christiansen, the chamber’s event coordinator. “People like things that are different; they like trying something new.”
That curiosity has helped entrepreneurs, like Nibert, get their start.
Though Nibert is still finishing final prep on his truck, which will operate by Wake N’ Lake on North Barbee Road in Warsaw, he’s already been approached by local churches and community organizers interested in hosting him at events.
“It’s something I can do on my own and grow at my own pace,” Nibert said. “Eventually, I’d love for other people to be able to use it too, to test ideas, learn the ropes.”
Also among those helping fuel the trend is Michelle Camacho, owner of The Twisted Tiki in Syracuse. What began as a hobby during the pandemic quickly turned into a full-time business.
“Before the truck was even built, we were booked six months in advance,” Camacho said. “It had a life of its own.”
For Camacho, the appeal of food trucks lies in lower startup costs, flexibility, and the ability to build a customer base while traveling.
“You can go to busy festivals and get your name out there,” she said.
Nibert agreed. “It’s a fraction of the cost of a restaurant, and I can do it by myself,” he said.
For Nibert, the decision to leap into business was not easy, but it was worth it.
“It probably took me 10 years to make the jump,” he said. “But once I did, it felt like a huge weight came off my shoulders. Even on tough days, I know I’m doing what I love.”
FOOD PREP Inside this food truck, a vendor quickly prepares new meals for hungry customers.
now Y our n eighbor
Laura Seney makes her ‘mark’ at KREMC
By PHOEBE MUTHART Editor
Laura Seney is the marketing and communications specialist at Kosciusko REMC. Originally from Ohio, she now lives in Winona Lake with her husband and is a Grace College graduate.
Seney grew up in Toledo, Ohio. She graduated from high school in 2017. She attended Grace College, earning a bachelor’s degree in visual communications and design in 2020.
Originally, she thought about being a photographer and graphic designer.
“I like creative writing, and I didn’t expect to end up in marketing,” she said. “It is a creative field and I am creative.”
After college, she worked at Starbucks for less than a year, and then a small digital marketing company in Winona Lake for one year.
She then got a job at the Kosciusko Convention and Visitors Bureau.
“It was a great position,” she said of the CVB, where she was its marketing and communications director for three years.
“This experience working at a nonprofit organization made transitioning into working for a cooperative, like KREMC, a practical move,” she said.
Last November, she got the job at KREMC.
“I knew from word of mouth that KREMC was a great place to work, and everyone in the community had positive things to say about the company. When I saw a position open up here, it just made sense to apply,” she said.
“Everyone has been very friendly and welcoming, making the transition to working here easy and enjoyable,” she said.
Her job responsibilities include managing its social media presence, creating content for Kosciusko Connect, event management, helping with its annual meeting and writing press releases.
“Each day is different,” she said. “I am excited to work for a company that invests in and cares about the local community,” Seney said. “I love that we care about our members.”
Recently, the company handed out water at the fair.
The marketing department is comprised of three people, including Seney.
Her first few months were spent learning how to use lots of new equipment and picking up new skills, such as professional audio recording and editing.
“I’m excited to learn the ins and outs of the cooperative
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world, and also learn how to use the wealth of equipment and resources KREMC has available. I look forward to promoting all of the ways KREMC is investing in our community,” Seney said.
She lives in Winona Lake with her husband, Garrett, and enjoys spending time with her 8-yearold stepdaughter. She attends Mission Point Church. She likes to walk the trails near her home and to the lake. She also likes reading, and doing creative writing.
“It’s a great community,” she said. “It’s a great place to raise a family.”
OHIO NATIVE Laura Seney is the marketing and communications specialist at Kosciusko REMC. Originally from Ohio, she now lives in Winona Lake with her husband and is a Grace College graduate.
New Paris student honored at annual SkillsUSA Workforce Development event
A career and technical student in Indiana was recognized at the 2025 SkillsUSA Championships,
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held in Atlanta June 25-26, with a certificate of accomplishment. More than 6,500 students competed at the national showcase of career and technical education.
The SkillsUSA Championships are the largest skill competition in the world and covers 1.79 million square feet, equivalent to 31 football fields or 41 acres.
First-place state winners were invited to the event to demonstrate their technical skills, workplace skills and personal skills in 114 hands-on occupational and leadership competitions, including robotics, automotive technology, drafting, criminal justice, aviation maintenance and public speaking. Industry leaders from 850 businesses, corporations, trade associations and unions planned and evaluated the contestants against their standards for entry-level workers. More than 1,200 industry judges and technical committee members participated this year.
All SkillsUSA Championships competitors were honored Friday night, June 27, at the closing SkillsUSA awards session
at State Farm Arena. As an indicator of proficiency, skill-point certificates were awarded to the national contestants who met a predetermined threshold contest score for their SkillsUSA event, demonstrating workplace readiness. Students can add this certificate to an employment portfolio.
The following student is a skillpoint certificate recipient from the area: Caleb Silliman, New Paris, a student at Wawasee Career and Technical Cooperative, Syracuse, was awarded a skillpoint certificate in culinary arts.
“More than 6,500 students from every state in the nation participated in the 2025 SkillsUSA Championships,” said SkillsUSA Executive Director Chelle Travis. “This showcase of career and technical education demonstrates SkillsUSA at its finest. Our students, instructors and industry partners work together to ensure that every student excels. This program expands learning and career opportunities for our members.”
The SkillsUSA Championships event is held annually for students in middle school, high school or college/post-secondary programs as part of the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference. The national, nonprofit partnership of students, instructors and industry is a verified talent pipeline for America’s skilled workforce that is working to help solve the skills gap.
Photo provided by Laura Seney.
DON’T “SHELL OUT” A LOT OF CASH
Learners graduate from Warsaw Adult Education Program
Warsaw Adult Education celebrated a milestone Friday, June 20, as 85 adult learners from Kosciusko and Fulton counties received their high school equivalency diplomas in a graduation ceremony held at the Warsaw Performing Arts Center.
“There is no secret sauce,” said program Director Leo Patiño about the success of the program. “Our teachers are the rock stars that helped us hit our amazing numbers this year. They are able to connect with students in a way that is conducive to their learning style.”
The ceremony also honored stu-
dents from the English Language Learning program, with representation from all six levels of language proficiency. Their recognition highlighted the diverse paths of learning that adult education supports across the region. The E.L.L. program had seen lower success in previous years but rebounded after implementing changes and adding a couple of teachers, according to Patiño.
“These students are hungry for knowledge and opportunities,” Patiño said. “Our teachers were able to get 80% of our students to grow in
proficiency, which puts us as one of the top programs in the state.”
Guests in attendance included: David Hoffert, superintendent of Warsaw Community Schools; school board President Heather Reichenbach; school board members, Denny Duncan, Matt Deuel and Tom Westerhof; Tracy Horrell, assistant superintendent; and Steven Boyer, director of human resources. Also joining the celebration were: Kosciusko County Sheriff Jim Smith; JoAnne Alvarez, vice chancellor of Ivy Tech Kosciusko County; and keynote speaker Jerry Haffner, for-
Will new tax motivate Hoosiers to quit tobacco?
By LIVE WELL KOSCIUSKO
With the increase in the cost of tobacco products that began July 1, many may see this as an ideal opportunity to consider quitting tobacco.
Whether motivated by health, financial goals or the desire for a fresh start, Hoosiers across the state are being encouraged to take advantage of the many free tools available to support their journey toward a tobacco-free life.
Support systems and evidence-based programs are in place to help make quitting more attainable.
“We are dedicated to helping individuals who want to quit tobacco use by providing them with the necessary support and tools to succeed,” said Jessica Camarena, vice president of programs at Live Well Kosciusko, a local nonprofit aimed at improving residents’ lives and health. Its website can be found at livewellkosciusko.org.
In addition to helping adults quit, tobacco tax increases are considered an effective tool to prevent youth tobacco use. As prices rise, fewer young people start using tobacco products. Indiana’s new tax increase is expected to prevent more than 10,000 youth from becoming adults who smoke and reduce the number of young adults who smoke by more than 2,200.
Pathways for Hoosiers seeking help to quit smoking include:
• Consulting their health care provider for medical advice on cessation.
• Quit Now Indiana — Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (784-8669), text READY to 34191, or visit QuitNowIndiana.com to receive guidance from tobacco cessation coaches.
• Engaging with local tobacco prevention coalitions for additional resources.
Programs, like Quit Now Indiana, provide cessation resources to Hoosiers. Quit Now Indiana served more than 8,400 Hoosiers last year
and saw a return on investment of nearly $12 million among those who successfully quit. For every $1 spent on Quit Now Indiana, the state saves nearly $10.
Indiana has made progress in reducing smoking rates over time, but tobacco use still places a heavy burden on public and economic health. Health care costs in Indiana directly caused by smoking are estimated at $3.4 billion annually.
mer district director of adult education for the state of Indiana.
In his keynote address, Haffner praised Indiana as a national leader in adult education services and encouraged graduates to “never give up and keep on learning.” Haffner also highlighted a few of the graduates in attendance. A question was sent to graduates prior to the ceremony. The question was, “What has being a part of Warsaw Adult Education meant to me and my family?”
The answers were heartfelt and appreciative, but most of all, the responses had a sense of pride and optimism for future opportunities,
according to Patiño.
Patiño said Warsaw Adult Education is grateful to its many partners, including Warsaw and Rochester schools, local nonprofits and community organizations, whose support makes adult education possible. The program unveiled a rebranding initiative for the next program year, which will include a new logo.
For those interested in enrolling in a high school equivalency or E.L.L. class, visit the Warsaw Adult Ed website at warsawschools.org/o/ wae or send a text to (574) 216-3636 to learn more.
PROUD GRADUATES
Donation helps bring former Major League Baseball player to Warsaw
Warsaw Community Schools has announced a $5,000 donation from the Esther Pfleiderer Charitable Trust, administered by 1st Source Bank, in support of the school system’s 2025 speaker series.
This year’s keynote speaker is former Major League Baseball player and motivational speaker, Darryl Strawberry, who will speak to WCS students Thursday, Sept. 11.
Strawberry’s message of resilience, leadership and transformation will reach both fifth-grade and high school students. His story aligns with Warsaw Community Schools’ mission to equip students to pursue their dreams while enriching the lives of others.
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“We are grateful to 1st Source Bank and the Esther Pfleiderer Charitable Trust for the investment in our local students,” said Superintendent David Hoffert. “Esther was a lifelong educator with a legacy of impacting students. The trust has been an ongoing sponsor of our yearly speaker series. Over
the years, we have been able to introduce students to American role models in science, arts, history, culture and sport. We are grateful to continue this
the
Organ donation simply saves lives
By KIRA NEWKIRK Guest Writer
Kellie Terry has been on the transplant waiting list for three years. She has battled hypertension her entire adult life and today undergoes daily dialysis. But dialysis is not a cure. Over time, her disease will progress and the Indiana mother of three grown sons and grandmother of four will need a kidney transplant to survive.
So she waits.
Jeff Campbell is waiting, too. A diabetic, his kidney function was closely monitored for decades. But when he developed a staph infection, strong antibiotics he was prescribed aggressively attacked his kidneys. Now, he is in end-stage kidney failure. But he is unable to start dialysis or be added to the transplant waiting list until some other health issues resolve themselves.
Until then, he, one of nearly 1,200 Indiana neighbors in need of a kidney transplant, are searching for a living donor from within his family and beyond.
Lifesaving organ donation can happen in two ways — through
deceased donation and living donation. Deceased donation is a decision to donate viable organs, including the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys and intestine, upon one’s death. Living donation occurs when a healthy person chooses to donate a kidney or portion of their liver to save a life.
I said “yes” to becoming an organ donor when I die. I also became a living donor this year.
I’m a registered nurse. In March, I donated one of my kidneys to save the life of a teacher and boys basketball coach at the high school from which I graduated.
I felt a calling to do the most human thing I can do, which is save a life through organ donation.
Of the 105,000 Americans currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, more than 91,000 need a kidney, the organ most in demand and transplanted.
The majority of transplanted kidneys come from deceased donors. The others come from living donors — family, friends, loved ones or complete strangers.
Last year, of the 27,759 kidney transplants performed in the US, 6,418 were made possible by living
Pierceton First Baptist Church to offer vacation Bible school
First Baptist Church of Pierceton is inviting children ages 4 through teens to its annual vacation Bible school.
donors like me.
There are a myriad of myths and misunderstandings about living donation. But here are the facts:
• Living organ donation and transplantation became possible due to of the critical shortage of deceased donors.
• Those who receive a living donor transplant are removed from the transplant waiting list, which makes a deceased donor kidney or liver available for someone else who needs a lifesaving transplant.
• Living kidney donors can live a healthy life with only one kidney.
• A donated lobe of a liver regenerates within six to 12 weeks, returning to a fully-functioning liver inside a living donor.
• Living donors do not have to be related to their recipients. One of every four living donors are not biologically related to their recipient.
• Living donation is done through minimally-invasive surgery. Most living donors are home the next day and back to normal activities in just a few weeks.
• Living donors return to work, exercise, travel and experience life, just like before.
Donate Life America maintains a national living donor registry. People between the ages of 18-65 who sign up to be a deceased organ donor at RegisterMe.org can also choose to be a living donor.
First Baptist Church is located at 208 W. Market St., Pierceton. Preregistration is encouraged but not required. For questions or registration, leave a message at (574) 594-2197.
The program will run from 6:30-8:15 p.m. each day Sunday, July 20, through Thursday, July 24. This year’s theme is “Let’s Go Camping” and will include songs, games, ventriloquism, Bible lessons, food, prizes, a campfire and more.
With more than 400,000 people in the US currently being treated for end-stage kidney failure, your choice to be a living donor can quickly end someone’s wait and help them regain their lives.
If, however, living donation is not for you, I encourage you to learn more about organ donation in general, make the choice to be a donor then discuss your important decision with your family.
Organ donation simply saves lives and is the ultimate, selfless decision any of us can make.
(Kira Newkirk is vice president of business operations at Indiana Donor Network, which is the federally- designated organ recovery organization that coordinates organ and tissue donation in Indiana and transplantation throughout the US.)
MOTIVATIONAL MESSAGE Tom Tearney, 1st Source Bank trust advisor and vice president, left, presents a ceremonial check to Warsaw Community Schools Superintendent David Hoffert. The $5,000 donation from the Esther Pfleiderer Charitable Trust will help to bring former Major League Baseball player and motivational speaker, Darryl Strawberry, to speak to Warsaw students in September. Photo provided by Warsaw Community Schools.
tradition forward thanks to
generous support.”
Warsaw Community Schools recently announced that Claypool Elementary, Jefferson Elementary, Madison Elementary and Washington S.T.E.M. Academy have officially been re-certified as S.T.E.M. certified schools by the Indiana Department of Education.
S.T.E.M. stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
This recognition highlights each school’s continued commitment to science, technology, engineering and mathematics education through inquiry-based instruction, cross-curricular collaboration and real-world problem-solving experiences. As part of a five-year renewal process, these schools demonstrated sustainable, student-centered practices that align with the IDOE’s vision for S.T.E.M. learning environments.
“Warsaw Community Schools has become known as a state and national leader in science, technology, engineering and mathematics education,” said Dr. David Hoffert, WCS superintendent.
“We are blessed by the dedicat-
ed work of our teachers and the strong support of our local industry and community. The culture of S.T.E.M. education is a through line throughout our schools. We are proud to recognize Claypool, Jefferson, Madison and Washington for their state S.T.E.M. school recertification and the high standard of education it exemplifies.”
The IDOE established the S.T.E.M. certification program in 2015 to identify schools that go beyond the traditional classroom, incorporating project-based learning, community partnerships, entrepreneurship and integration with the humanities and related arts. Fewer than 120 schools across Indiana currently hold active S.T.E.M. certification.
Warsaw Community Schools now has five S.T.E.M. certified buildings. Edgewood Middle School earned its certification in 2023, further reinforcing the district’s K–12 S.T.E.M. pipeline and its mission to prepare students for future success.
To learn more about S.T.E.M. programming at Warsaw Community Schools, visit warsawschools.org.
Wawasee Schools to provide free school supplies for K–8 students
Wawasee Community School Corporation announces students in kindergarten through eighth grade will receive free school supplies for the upcoming school year, due to a grant secured through the work of the district’s administrative leadership team.
This initiative aims to relieve families of the growing financial burden that often accompanies back-to-school preparations.
With economic pressures and rising costs impacting many households, Wawasee Schools saw an opportunity to ease that stress and acted on it.
“Knowing that every student will walk into school equipped with the tools they need to succeed is incredibly reassuring,” said Dr. Shelly Wilfong, assistant superintendent of Wawasee Community Schools. “We’re grateful for the collaboration that made this possible,
Local students receive educators scholarship
Local students preparing to become teachers are among this year’s recipients of the Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, according to state Rep. Craig Snow, R-Warsaw.
Two Wawasee High School students were among the scholarship recipients: Jaxon Brown and Sophia Rush.
Other area students who also received the scholarship were: Brian Dunbar, Warsaw Community High School; Juan Macias-Nino, Whitko Jr.-Sr. High School; and Taylor Owens, Tippecanoe Valley High School.
The scholarship program, established in 2016 through legislation passed by the Indiana General Assembly, awards a renewable scholarship of up to $10,000 per year (up to $40,000 total) to high-achieving high school and college students who agree to teach in an eligible Indiana school for five years.
A record-breaking 1,091 students applied for the 2025-2026
Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, with nearly 300 scholarships awarded.
“Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarships are a great way for young students to focus on their education without worrying about the financial strains of paying for college,” Snow said. “These Hoosiers are not only investing in their future but also the state’s and our next generation.”
Snow said those qualifying for the scholarship must graduate in the top 20 percent of their high school class, earn a score in the 20th percentile on the SAT or ACT, or have a cumulative gradepoint average of at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
To learn more and apply for the next round of scholarships opening in the fall, visit LearnMoreIndiana.org/nextteacher. Questions may be directed to NextTeacher@che.in.gov.
and we hope it provides some peace of mind for our families.”
The grant funding will cover essential school supplies for all students in grades K–8. Families will only need to provide personal items such as backpacks, water bottles and gym shoes (if needed for physical education classes).
The district looks forward to welcoming students back into classrooms in just a few weeks,
confident that each child will be prepared for a successful start to the school year. If any businesses, organizations, or individuals would like to contribute funds to help sponsor personal items or continue for next year, or for more information, contact Emily Worrell, director of communications and marketing at (574) 457-3188 ext. 1930 or eworrell@ wawasee.k12.in.us.
DISSECTION LESSON S.T.E.M. instructional Coach Derek Pike is shown guiding a dissection lesson at Washington S.T.E.M. Academy. Photo provided by Warsaw Community Schools.
Christian leadership summit to be simulcast in Warsaw
More than 350,000 people around the world participate in the Global Leadership Summit each year, and once again leaders in Warsaw will have a chance to join the event.
The Global Leadership Summit, called the world’s premier annual leadership event, is coming to Warsaw via simulcast Aug. 7-8, hosted by Leaders on Fire.
The two-day event will feature talks from globally recognized experts on leadership topics, such as vision, digital communication, purpose and sustainable high performance. The 2025 summit will be co-hosted by Emmy Award-winning journalist Paula Faris, broadcast from the main campus in the Chicago-land area.
Participants will gain leadership insight and inspiration from 15 speakers, including:
• Craig Groeschel — Founding and senior pastor of Life.Church.
• Thasunda Brown Duckett — president and chief executive officer, TIAA and one of Time 100: Most Influential People.
• Nick Saban — Former head football coach at the University of Alabama.
• Christine Caine — Co-founder of the A21 Campaign and Propel Women.
• Jon Acuff — Bestselling author of 10 books, including “Soundtracks.”
Leaders on Fire will host the event at Warsaw Community Church, 1855 S. County Farm Road, Warsaw, which is one of more than 350 locations across the US hosting the summit, with an expected attendance of 60,000 nationwide. With this year’s theme, “Lead Where You Are,” the summit aims to inspire and equip individuals to lead with purpose — regardless of their role or setting.
Melanie
The Global Leadership Summit is for business professionals, nonprofit leaders, educators, students, church staff, entrepreneurs and anyone passionate about positive change.
The summit will also be experienced in approximately 100 countries and translated into more than 40 languages beginning this fall. As part of its nonprofit mission, the summit will be experienced at more than 250 prisons and community organi-
zations serving at-risk populations. Visit globalleadership.org for information and tickets to the event at Warsaw Community Church. Early bird pricing is available through July 16. Email info@leadersonfire.com for questions regarding the local event.
Leaders on Fire has a mission to ignite transformation in the hearts of leaders, mobilizing them to change lives. Through coaching, digital courses and workshops, leaders are equipped
to integrate Jesus Christ into their leadership, transform culture, elevate team performance and create “purposeful profit.” Learn more at leadersonfire.com.
The Global Leadership Network believes in leadership with a higher purpose. For 30 years, the nonprofit organization has drawn a diverse faculty to provide leadership experiences for people of all backgrounds. It also offers year-round leadership development resources and provides opportunities for under-resourced leaders.
Warsaw DAR chapter learns about sheriff’s office
The Agnes Pruyn Chapman Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution met at noon Tuesday, June 24, at the Pizza Hut East in Warsaw.
Melanie
schools and is a school resource officer.
Melanie
The speaker was Sgt. Doug Light from the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s office. He has been in law enforcement since the age of 22 and retired from the Warsaw City Police Department prior to being employed with the sheriff’s department as the public relations officer. He also teaches the DARE program in the public
There are approximately 130 employees in the sheriff’s office. It handled 2,000 service calls last month.
The sheriff’s office is also responsible for the jail, the Work Release Center and the community corrections program, which is monitoring with ankle bracelets. The Work Release Center is growing its own garden this summer. JCAP, which stands for Jail Chemical Addiction Pro-
gram, has about a 90% success rate. These and other programs try to help inmates make better decisions for their future.
Regent Kathy Gawthrop opened the business meeting by leading with the DAR opening rituals and reading the president general’s message. She gave the national defense report on drone flights and sightings, which showed a lack of security in some areas.
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A number of award certificates were shown that the chapter earned this past year, which were handed out in May at the state convention. The group received a couple of thank-you notes and Liberty Tree invitations, which were passed around. Also, district meetings will be coming up in August for anyone who is interested.
Maureen Mauzy announced that a chapter member, Linda Stroup, passed away and services would be at Otterbein Methodist Church, Atwood.
DAR membership is open to all women who can prove an ancestor fought in or gave aid to the patriots’ cause during the American Revolutionary War. For more information, visit the DAR website at dar.org.
SUMMIT SPEAKERS — At least 15 speakers are scheduled for the 2025 Global Leadership Summit Aug. 7-8. The summit will be simulcast at
Warsaw Community Church. Image provided by Leaders on Fire.
Grace College invites public
Grace College is pleased to invite the community to two free events, part of the inaugural Winona Christian Writers Conference.
At 8 p.m. Friday, July 18, the public is invited to an author reading by Dr. John Poch and Katy Carl. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 19, the conference will host the Summer LitFest, featuring book signings and a variety of literary-themed vendors. Both events will take place in the Morgan Library at Grace College, 921 Connection Circle, Winona Lake.
“We’ve had a tremendous response to the inaugural Winona Christian Writers Conference, with registration filling up completely,” said Dr. Lauren Rich, chair of the department of hu-
manities and conference organizer. “We’re excited to welcome 60 writers from all over the country and around the world to the Grace College campus for this event. These two open-to-the-public events will give locals a taste of the conference, which promotes the excellence, beauty and craft of writing.”
The author reading July 18 will feature readings from Poch’s poetry and Carl’s short-story collection “Fragile Objects.” The event will include free cookies and coffee.
The Summer LitFest, open to all ages, will feature book signings by many of the conference’s award-winning faculty and featured writers, including Shemaiah Gonzalez, Carl, Poch, Dr. George David Clark, David
provided by Grace College.
Marsh, Dr. Katherine HiggsCoulthard, Daniel Bowman Jr., Dr. James Matthew Wilson and
Reserved hunt applications open
Hunters can now apply for reserved hunts online using the Division of Fish and Wildlife Activity Hub at GoOutdoorsIN. com. Reserved hunts included in this round include fish and wildlife area dove, Indiana Private Lands Access hunts, youth deer and National Wildlife Refuge deer hunts.
The online application method is the only way to apply for the hunts listed. No late entries will be accepted. Applicants must possess a hunting license that is valid for the hunt for which they are applying. A $1 tech fee is charged for each hunt application purchased. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, July 30. More specific hunt information for individual properties can be found at on.IN.gov/ reservedhunt.
Applying For A Hunt
In December 2024, a new license system, the Activity Hub,
replaced the former system.
To purchase a license or apply for a reserved hunt, follow the instructions below. It is recommended applicants leave themselves plenty of time to log in and learn how the system works.
Click the login button on the home page of GoOutdoorsIN. com. From there, you will be taken to Access Indiana, where you will be required to log in or create an account. Once logged in through Access Indiana, you will automatically be directed back to the Activity Hub. From there, you will be able to purchase a license and apply for reserved hunts. If it’s your first time using the Activity Hub, you will need to look yourself up in the system and verify that your personal information is correct.
Hunters at each participating property will be selected through random computerized draws and will be able to view results online by Aug. 11. An email will be sent
Vacation Bible school at Bethel Baptist in Pierceton
Bethel Baptist Church will be holding vacation Bible school in July.
The program will run from 6-8:30 p.m. Sunday, July 20, through Friday, July 25. A barbecue and awards will end the week starting at 6 p.m. Friday, July 25.
The theme for vacation Bible school is “On Track With Our Powerful God,” and chil-
dren ages 4 to 18 will have the chance to enjoy music, stories, games, crafts and snacks. The church is located at 1109 W. Market St., Pierceton. Call (574) 594-5249 for more information.
to all applicants when the drawings have been completed.
Youth hunts are available through the reserved hunt draw system. Hunters can apply for opportunities at Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge or select IPLA properties. Youth hunters must be younger than 18 years old on the day of the hunt to participate.
Reserved hunts in this application period include:
Dove hunts on the following fish and wildlife areas:
• Deer Creek Fish and Wildlife Area.
• Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area.
• Kankakee Fish and Wildlife Area.
• Kingsbury Fish and Wildlife Area.
• Pigeon River Fish and Wildlife Area.
• J.E. Roush Lake Fish and Wildlife Area.
• Wilbur Wright Fish and Wildlife Area.
• Dove hunts on game bird areas in White, Benton, Newton, and Jasper counties.
• Deer hunts at Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge: firearms, archery, and primitive muzzleloader.
• PLA hunts for squirrels, deer archery, and teal and early goose.
• Youth deer hunts at Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge and IPLA properties.
readings by Dr. John
Dr. Gary Schmidt. Schmidt is the bestselling author of numerous children’s and young adult novels, including “The Labors of Hercules Beal” and “Just Like That.” He is also a National Book Award finalist for “Okay for Now,” “Pay Attention, Carter Jones” and “Orbiting Jupiter.” Schmidt has also won multiple Newbery Honors and a Printz Honor.
“We are honored to welcome Dr. Gary Schmidt to our town,” said Rich. “His visit is a unique opportunity to engage with one of the most respected voices in contemporary literature. We encourage everyone — especially our local readers and young aspiring writers — to join us, stock up on your
summer lakeside reading and get a book signed.”
The LitFest will also feature several literary-themed local vendors, including The Word House, Curioaks, Little Cricket Letterpress and HF Group. Free lemonade will be available to all; the first 15 attendees will receive a free swag bag.
The conference is organized by Rich and Poch of the English and journalism program at Grace College, with support from generous donors.
To learn more about the Winona Christian Writers Conference, visit grace.edu/about/the-winona-christian-writers-conference. Questions can be emailed to wcwc@grace.edu.
COMMUNITY INVITED
Grace College invites the community to two, free events, part of the inaugural Winona Christian Writers Conference, including author
Poch, left, and Katy Carl. Photo
The Animal Welfare League expresses a great big thank you to R&B Car Company, Warsaw, for its annual adoption fundraising event, including a “Stuff the Bus” with pet food and supplies. The company also donated $1,800 to AWL to help shelter pets.
“So happy to be a small part in such a big cause, said R&B Magic Mark Olsen “The AWL shelter has always had a big place in my heart.”
This annual event is organized by AWL Adoption Specialist, Brooke Lyon, and Olsen. Special appreciation also goes to Manager Chad Laughlin and Owner Dan Green.
“We are incredibly grateful for our ongoing partnership with Magic Mark and the amazing team at R&B Car Company. The annual adoption event gives our shelter pets a much-needed break from the shelter environment and a real chance to shine in front of potential adopters,” said Lyon.
“This year’s event was our most successful yet with 14 animals finding their forever homes. In addition to sponsoring adoption fees for the event, R&B Car Company collected donations throughout the month and Magic Mark personally donated $100 for every car sold in May. In total, they raised an incredible $3,290 to support our shelter. We can’t thank Magic Mark and his team enough for their unwavering support of our mission and the homeless animals in our community,” said Lyon.
AWL Adoption Specialist Brooke Lyon, Canine Lab Tech Jordyn Walker, and R&B Car Manager Chad Laughlin. Photo provided by The Animal Welfare League.
Wa-Nee Community Schools a repeat top transportation team winner
Wa-Nee Community Schools has once again been named a Top Transportation Team in North America and received the coveted prize at a conference July 14, in Reno, Nev.
Wa-Nee joins five other school districts from across North America to win the third-annual Top Transportation Teams award. Wa-Nee took home the prize last year as well.
Amy Rosa, Wa-Nee’s transportation director, said her drivers feel well-cared for and when they have opportunity to visit with drivers from other districts, they appreciate even more what they have at the district.
“I think a lot of it is the support that they feel,” Rosa said. “The current employees feel blessed where they are and when other people get in they’re like, ‘I’m really glad to be here.’ We actually have people waiting to get into routes. I know that’s unusual.”
The Top Transportation Teams program is administered by Transfinder Corp., the leader in school transportation logistics.
“The Top Transportation Teams program continues to grow, a sign that there was a void that needed filling,” said Antonio Civitella, president and CEO of Transfinder, the industry’s leading transportation logistics software and hardware company, which oversees the program. “Hearing the stories from districts like Wa-Nee Community Schools and how they work together, build culture and go above and beyond the call of duty has been inspiring to so many. We know this program is not just giving these teams the recognition they deserve but also is playing a role in helping transportation operations improve how they serve their communities.”
Winners are located in five states, including two from New York state.
Since its inception, the winners have been divided into two categories — teams with 100 or more members and teams with fewer than 100 members.
Winners in the under 100 category include Wa-Nee Community Schools.
Now in its third year, the number of districts enrolling in the Top
Transportation Teams awards program is increasing. The participation rate among enrollees was also significantly higher year over year.
Winners were determined solely by anonymous survey results.
Team members answered questions related to its departments, such as leadership, career development, resources and incentives.
Each winner receives one full scholarship to the STN EXPO
WEST in Reno, Nev., courtesy of School Transportation News. In addition, Transfinder is covering travel and hotel costs for the leader of each winning team. While at STN EXPO WEST, held July 11-16, leaders from each of the winning teams will participate in a panel discussion on what it takes to build a Top Transportation Team.
To learn more, visit toptransportationteams.com.
HELPING CHILDREN Linda Haughee, left, of Sleep in Heavenly Peace, accepts a donation from the Beta Zeta Chapter of Delta Theta Tau Sorority member, Brenda Arnold. Photo provided by Beta Zeta Chapter of Delta Theta Tau Sorority.
Warsaw sorority
donates $500 to Sleep in Heavenly Peace
Sleep in Heavenly Peace recently received a donation of $500 from the Beta Zeta Chapter of Delta Theta Tau Sorority.
Sleep in Heavenly Peace is a nonprofit organization dedicated
to building and delivering beds to children in need.
Linda Haughee, of Sleep in Heavenly Peace, received the donation from sorority member, Brenda Arnold.
E lkhart C ounty F air
‘Taste the Flavor, Share the Fun’ at the fair
The Elkhart County 4-H Fair is set to run from Friday, July 18, to Saturday, July 26, bringing a wide variety of attractions and activities to the area under this year’s theme: “Taste the Flavor, Share the Fun.”
Fairgoers can expect a mix of paid concerts and motorsports, along with an array of free entertainment for all ages across several key areas of the fairgrounds.
Grandstand Entertainment
The grandstand series headlines each night with major music and motorsport events, all of which require tickets for entry. The lineup includes:
• 7 p.m. Friday, July 18: Barenaked Ladies with Sugar Ray and Fastball.
• 8 p.m. Saturday, July 19: T.I.
• 8 p.m. Sunday, July 20: Anne Wilson.
• 8 p.m. Monday, July 21: Nate Smith featuring Preston Cooper.
• 8 p.m Tuesday, July 22: Skillet.
• 6 p.m. Wednesday and 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Thursday, July 23-24: Grand Design Truck and Tractor Pulls.
•1 p.m. and 8 p.m. Friday, July 25: Rodeo.
•7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 26: Demolition Derby.
Concert ticket prices vary by artist and seating, ranging from $15 for grandstand seating to
$220 for VIP concert packages. All grandstand events are separately ticketed and not included with general fair admission.
Four areas of the fairgrounds will feature daily entertainment at no extra cost to visitors:
Jayco Family Fun Center
The All-American High Dive Show makes a splash with Olympic-level diving and aerial stunts.
Fairgoers can catch performances daily at 2:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m., with an extra 4 p.m. show on weekends.
Highlights include a clown diving act, fire dive, and a finale from a dizzying 80-foot platform.
Hollyhock Entertainment Center
At the Great American Duck Race, audience volunteers help race live ducks in interactive, fast-paced competitions.
Races are held daily at 1 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 8 p.m., with additional 5 p.m. shows Saturday, Sunday, and Kids Day. Winners take home prizes like duck whistles and visors.
Everence Family Entertainment Center
Step into prehistory at the Dinosaur Takeover Show, a dinosaur-themed experience open daily from noon-8 p.m. Guests can explore authentic fossils and life-sized replicas, including 5.5-
this year’s Elkhart County 4-H Fair. Photo provided by the fair.
foot dinosaur skulls. Shows occur at noon, 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 6 p.m. Heritage Park Stage
Live stage acts light up Heritage Park each evening:
• 7 p.m. Saturday, July 19: Ryan and Friends.
• 7 p.m. Monday, July 21: Princess Party.
• 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 22: Luminos.
• 8 p.m. Thursday, July 24: Hubie Ashcraft Band. New Features And Tasty Additions
The fairgrounds are introducing new facilities this year, including basketball and pickleball courts, courtesy of Alliance RV, and a “Goat Silo” climbing structure in the youth ag area. New food vendors, like Saca
Los Tacos, The Dutch Kernel, and Stubborn Methods, offer flavorful additions to the fair’s traditional offerings.
Whether attending the top-tier concerts, quirky duck races, fossil explorations, or the latest fair cuisine, the Elkhart County 4-H Fair promises nine full days of flavor, fun, and community tradition.
Gretchen Fervida leads by example
By MAKSYM HART Staff Writer
Gretchen Fervida doesn’t chase the spotlight, but in nine years of showing swine through Elkhart County 4-H, she’s more than earned it.
From humble beginnings on her family’s farm to competing at the Indiana State Fair and earning champion and reserve titles with her pigs, Fervida’s 4-H journey has been defined not only by her work in the show
ring but by the work ethic and integrity she brings behind the scenes.
“I’ve had wins, I’ve had champions, I’ve been in grand drives,” said Fervida. “It’s extremely powerful. You feel the whole barn filled with energy. But I’ve learned to take just as much pride in the compliments about my pigs’ skin and hair, or my work ethic. Sometimes, the win isn’t going to be there, and that’s okay.”
A rising senior and swine club
officer, Fervida’s 4-H responsibilities go beyond her own projects.
She’s served in leadership roles for three years, helping run meetings and assist at shows, and she wants to be someone others, especially younger members, can look up to.
Raised in a farming household where her father once raised feeder pigs, Fervida said joining 4-H in third grade felt inevitable.
“We always knew we’d do pigs,” she said. “And every year, we just kept learning more and trying to get better.”
That constant push to improve has paid off. Fervida has taken home top breed titles, including champion and reserve Poland barrows.
But she’s just as quick to recall the emotional moments that didn’t result in a win, like the year a friend showed one of her
pigs to a major victory.
“I just remember bawling,” she said, laughing. “It wasn’t even me in the ring, but seeing my hard work pay off … it was emotional. That’s a moment I’ll never forget.”
Despite her active involvement in FFA, where she currently serves as chapter president at NorthWood High School, Fervida credits 4-H with teaching her the value of discipline, mentorship, and pride in one’s work.
“4-H has helped shape who I am,” she said. “It taught me that to be proud of something, you have to do the work. Get your hands dirty. Show up. Listen to criticism. That’s how you grow.”
Outside of the ring, her favorite memories include late nights at the fairgrounds with friends, laughing, playing cards, and making memories that will last a lifetime.
“In the barn, it’s like a community,” she said. “We’re all working toward something, but we’re also cheering each other on. A win for a friend is a win for me.”
As she looks ahead to her final year in 4-H and beyond, Fervida knows agriculture will remain a lifelong passion.
“I don’t think I’ll ever leave the farm,” she said. “It’s who I am. It’s our lifestyle, and it’s important to me.”
For younger 4-H’ers, Fervida has a simple message: “Be willing to learn. Take advice. And remember, just getting your animal to the fair, that’s something to be proud of.”
In a community built on dedication and teamwork, Fervida is a role model: one who leads by example, learns from every experience, and always remembers where she came from.
4-H FAIR CHAMPION Gretchen Fervida wins Champion Landrace Gilt at the Elkhart County 4-H Fair. Photo provided by Gretchen Fervida.
E lkhart C ounty F air
Randi Yoder loves being part of the fair
By LAUREN ZEUGNER Staff Writer
Randi Yoder, this year’s Elkhart County Fair board president, “absolutely loves being part of the fair,” he said as he sat down for a recent interview.
Yoder has been on the fair board for nine years as a volunteer; three years before that he was involved with the fair board apprentice program. He’s also been a 4-H leader for 15 years and a 10- year 4-H’er.
As a leader, he was part of the 4-H Garden Tractor Club, which was started by his dad. He explained the club was created in part because there was a farm tractor club but lots of kids weren’t growing up on farms where they would learn to operate a tractor.
He described his tenure as president as “great.” “This is the earliest (in the month of July) it can be,” he said. “People say it’s a great fair, but that’s no reason to sit back. Sometimes, what’s new is taking what we’ve done and make it better,” he explained.
One of those improvements was updating the ECCC so it looked more modern and added 5,000 square feet. Visitors will now be able to see all the non-livestock and open-class exhibits in the same space.
“That’s one of the things we
looked at; what are we going to put in that space for nine days of the fair,” he said.
He’s also excited about the basketball court having a new portable surface.
“It gives a bit more cushion for the players and is a much-needed upgrade for the players,” he said.
Yoder’s theme for this year’s fair is “Taste the Flavor, Share the Fun.” He said he was surprised previous fair board presidents hadn’t emphasized fair food as the Elkhart County Fair offers about 75 places to eat.
“That’s one of the things we’ve tried hard to do as food vendors come in. It’s a variety of food and a variety of price points. You can find good food economically,” said Yoder.
The fair offers fair-goers $5 Friday, which as a number of food vendors offering $5 specials and there is a fair coupon book, which can also help defray the cost of fair food. Several vendors will be offering a president’s choice item on the menu at a reduced cost.
Speaking of food, brand new this year will be four eating contests. They will be held at 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday in the heart of Food Row near the Dairy Bar. Each day’s contest will be limited to 15 contestants and sponsored by a different food vendor.
There is also a $20 entry fee. Monday’s contest will be sponsored by the Goshen Noon Kiwanis and will feature its 1-pound burger. Tuesday will be mini funnel cake, Wednesday will be giant corn dogs and Thursday will be deep fried Oreos. Along with the Goshen Noon Kiwanis, the three biggest food vendors at the fair are sponsors.
Yoder explained all three vendors have participated in similar eating contests at the Florida State Fair. Registration is open at 4hfair.org. Just go to the “get involved” tab, go to “competitions” then click on “food eating contest.”
Yoder is also excited about the concerts as the fair will host five nights of concerts starting with The Bare Naked Ladies and two opening acts Friday, July 18. He’s also very excited by the fact there are over 3,000 4-H’ers this year.
“It was nice to be reminded this past year visiting 4-H clubs, watching pre-teens and teens doing demonstrations and leading their clubs,” he said.
As president, he has the responsibility and privilege to visit as many events at the fair as possible.
“I’ll get the opportunity to see more things during the fair. That’s what I’m looking forward to,” he said.
Yoder works at Das Dutchman
Essenhaus. He’s a second generation in-law and has worked there for 38 years. He currently handles inventory for all the ingredients used by both the restaurant and bakery. He is also responsible for Pickle Haus, an indoor pickleball court facility housed in the old noodle factory.
He is married to Anita. The couple have three grown children, Stephanie, Danielle and Conrad, and six grandchildren. Three grandchildren live in Indianapolis while the other three live in Elkhart County and are very excited about the fair and joining 4-H when they are old enough.
Lots of new events, spaces to check out at the fair
By LAUREN ZEUGNER Staff Writer
Those attending this year’s Elkhart County 4-H Fair will find there have been some changes and upgrades to the fairgrounds.
The most obvious will be the Elkhart County Community Center, the building where all the non-livestock 4-H projects are displayed. The space has been expanded by 5,000 square feet, providing enough room for all of the 4-H projects and open-class projects to be displayed.
Shelly Steury, fair manager, explained the idea was to provide space where visitors can see the 4-H project and then realize adults can participate in the open class events. She said she hoped it would spark interest in the Home Extension Homemakers clubs helping them continue to grow.
Inside the building, it can be separated into four large spaces for conferences, meetings or events. Each space has its own projector screen. The east end of the building features a large Continued on page 11
READY FOR FAIR — Randi Yoder, this year’s Elkhart County 4-H Fair president, is ready for fair week to start. He’s shown here by the newly-renovated ECCC. Photo by Lauren Zeugner.
E lkhart C ounty F air
Hochstedlers honored to be this year’s parade marshals
By LAUREN ZEUGNER Staff Writer
This year, Pat and Jeryl Hochstedler will be the parade marshals for the Elkhart County 4-H Fair parade. Both are honored and excited to be part of the parade in this way.
Randi Yoder, this year’s fair board president, is good friends with the Hochstedlers. He took them out to dinner to ask if they would be this year’s parade marshals. The couple said they’ve known Yoder since he was a teen.
“We were very honored and humbled. We take it as an honor,”
Pat Hochstedler said.
“It’s a pretty cool experience to see the parade from that perspective,” Jeryl Hochstedler said. “Seeing friends and neighbors calling out our name.”
The couple will lead the parade riding in a carriage.
Pat Hochstedler has been attending the Elkhart County 4-H Fair for about 60 years, although there may have been a year or two she missed during that time.
Her family was very involved in the fair and her father served as fair board president in 1983. Today, she helps out in a number of areas during fair week. She follows Marion Troyer’s shoes, noted Elkhart County photographer and fair historian, taking photos at the fair. Troyer asked Hochstedler to take photos at the fair
Lots of new
Continued from page 10
glass garage door to allow light into the building. On the east end is a new shaded patio providing more seating for fair visitors to take a break from all the fun.
The building also features a new rooftop deck sponsored by Millmark.
The old home and family arts building was also freshened up with new paint and air conditioning and will now be the Everance Family Entertainment Center.
This is where the dinosaur event will be held during fair week.
Another very obvious change is the handicap parking, located in front of the ECCC, wjhich has been paved to the fence line, making the fair more accessible.
And, of course, it wouldn’t be the fair without food and this year, five new food vendors are coming to the fair. Steury said Saca los Tacos will be located near the new ECCC patio. The
when he could no longer do so.
Pat Hochstedler is also active in the backstage area of the grandstand before the performers take the stage. She attends the security meetings and acts as a liaison between the press as to whether photos can be taken during the concert and the access photographers have to the stage for photos.
She also takes the meet and greet photos with the entertainers and VIPs before the concert.
“It’s honoring the entertainer and what they’re comfortable with,” she said.
While Jeryl Hochstedlers family wasn’t as involved in the fair as Pat Hochstedler’s was, he became involved as a member of the lamb club. Both are 10-year 4-H’ers.
When their own children became involved in the 4-H Goat Club, he was elected to represent the club as a director. He was then elected to the fair board’s executive board and in 2005, he served as fair board president.
At the fair, Jeryl Hochstedler works with the “Happy Helpers,” a group made up of past fair board presidents and other volunteers who set up and tear down areas for various events during fair week.
The couple have two grown children. Daughter, Danae, is married to Justin. Their children are Eliza and Evart Bell, and son, Adam, and his family live
Dutch Kernel will be located next to the Goshen Noon Kiwanis’ burger stand. At the south end of food row will be the new Seafood Shack concessions. See salt water taffy being pulled at Old Time Saltwater Taffy and be sure to check out Stubborn Methods, another new vendor, which will be located by the restrooms on the east side of the fairgrounds.
There is a new sports court and pickleball courts replacing the asphalt at the 3-on-3 basketball courts. A goat silo, funded through a Mishler-Brown Grant, will be located in the farmstead area.
“It’s the only goat silo in the state,” Steury said.
The goat silo is essentially a playground for goats. Steury said kids, or baby goats, will be playing on the goat silo during the day and then bedding down for the night in the farmstead barn with the miniature horses.
in southern Indiana and attend their grandchildren’s 4-H goat show as their county fair will be going on at the same time.
“Four-H is such a great opportunity to learn responsibility,” Pat Hochstedler said. “People are recognizing that on resumes. I don’t think kids realize how important that is.”
As for the fair, Pat Hochstedler is looking forward to enjoying a lamb burger. She especially likes the Kelley burger, which is served with barbecue sauce.
As for Jeryl Hochstedler, he loves the loaded potatoes at Joe’s Gyros and he always has to have strawberry shortcake.
The “Happy Helpers” try to take a break in the afternoons.
“There’s always room for strawberry shortcake in the afternoons,” he said.
TRULY HONORED Shown are Jeryl, left, and Pat Hochstedler along with Randi Yoder, fair board president. The Hochstedlers will be this year’s parade marshals for the Elkhart County 4-H Fair Parade, which will step off Sunday, July 20. Photo provided by the Elkhart County Fair.
LAST MINUTE TOUCHES Employees from Stutzman Landscaping were hard at work a few weeks ago planting sod in front of the newly- expanded Elkhart County Community Center, located at the Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds.
The building will house non-livestock 4-H projects and open-class exhibits during the fair. Photo by Lauren Zeugner.
Cathy J. Ratcliff
Goshen Area Resident
Cathy J. Ratcliff, 73, Goshen, passed away Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Goshen Hospital.
She was born on Aug. 7, 1951, to Gerald and Edna (Haslett) Birch in LaGrange. On June 8, 1985, she married Fred Ratcliff in Elkhart.
She is survived by her husband, Fred Ratcliff; daughter, Jeanna Ryan of Millersburg; brother, Michael (Crystal) Birch of Ligonier; sister, Linda Wertman of Goshen; and three grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents and two sons, Fred Ratcliff Jr. and Gary Daniel Ratcliff.
Cathy’s happiness stemmed from her fulfilling home life, and she had always cherished the moments she spent with her family. She was especially delighted in playing cards or piecing together one of her favorite puzzles. Cathy had also found immense joy in dancing and immersing herself in her beloved music.
A cremation committal will occur at Legacy Cremation and Remembrance Center in Ligonier.
Yeager Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at yeagerfuneralhome.com.
Charles Myers
United States Army Veteran
Charles “Chuck” Myers, age 94, a resident of Keizer, Ore., and former longtime resident of Syracuse, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Saturday, June 28, 2025.
Chuck was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Betty J. Bray; his parents, Cletus S. Myers and Prisilla E. Myers; and his granddaughter, Britiney Marie (Alt) Johanson.
Chuck was born on Feb. 8, 1931, in Milford. He graduated from Milford High School, where he also earned the rank of Eagle Scout. In 1947, he proudly represented the United States at the World Scout jamboree in France — a lifelong memory and highlight of his scouting journey. He went on to attend Indiana University, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in business.
On Nov. 28, 1953, Chuck married Betty J. Bray in Milford. Shortly after, the couple moved to Fort Knox, Ky., where Chuck honorably served his country as a lieutenant in the United States Army for two years. Following his military service, they returned to Syracuse, where Chuck joined his father, Cletus Myers at C.S. Myers Ford, continuing in the family business.
Chuck was a member of Wawasee Bible Church. He especially loved time spent on the water — sailing, skiing, boating and fishing. He cherished summers with the family at the lake, especially the annual fourth of July family reunion. There was always much laughter and fun when Chuck was around.
He enjoyed traveling in their motor home and spending the winter months in California. He lived in Syracuse for over 90 years of his life, before relocating to Keizer, Ore., in 2023 to be near his daughter, Christi Miller, and her family.
He is survived by his two daughters, Christi Ann (Myers) Miller and her husband Greg Miller of Keizer, Ore., and Sherry Lynn (Myers) Alt and her husband Greg Alt of Mulberry, Ga. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Courtney (Alt) Nieman and her husband Paul Nieman; Matthew Miller and his wife Kristin (Acott) Miller; and Hannah (Miller) Whitney and her husband Cameron Whitney.
His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Selah Nieman, Everly Nieman, Winslow Miller, Roselyn Miller and John Whitney.
Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse is entrusted with Chuck’s care. A celebration of life service will be held Tuesday, July 22, at Wawasee Community Bible Church in Milford. The service will begin at 10 a.m. followed by family visitation time.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Chuck’s honor can be sent to Wawasee Community Bible Church, 2035 E. 1300N, Milford.
To leave a condolence, visit TitusFuneralHome.com.
Norbert Niles
North Webster Church Of God Lifelong Member
Norbert “Nub” Niles, 90, North Webster, passed away Monday, July 7, 2025, at Autumn Ridge of Wabash.
He was born on May 18, 1935, in North Webster to Marion and Velma (Kiser) Niles. On June 5, 1954, he married Sue Ferverda, who survives.
He was self-employed in excavation as well as general construction. He was a lifelong member of the North Webster Church of God. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, horseback riding and spending time with his family.
He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Sue Niles; his daughters, Susan Niles Chamberlin (Tad) and Annette Niles Carmack; son, Todd Niles; four grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and brother, Ed Niles.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Diane.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 12, at the North Webster Community Church with Pastor Jeff Boyer officiating. Visitation was one hour prior to the service from 1-2 p.m. Burial immediately followed at McClintic Cemetery. Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse, provided services.
Court News
Small Claims
The following small claims have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: AAA Acceptance Corp. v. Jeremy Conover, $5,232.13; v. Kapen Eherenman, $2,702.45; v. Charles Swihart, $1,791.26
M&M Rental Property Management v. William Hyde, $2,350 Warsaw Health System v. Reveca Moyotl, $1,788.74; v. Breanna Shuler, $2,879.97; v. Rebecca Webb, $1,068.83 Civil Collections
The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler presiding: LVNV Funding LLC v. Brenda Baldridge, $1,201.67; v. Jammie Briley, $758.04; v. Timothy Craig, $2,165.26; v. Terry McDaniel a/k/a Terry Hamilton, $1,262.31; v. Kevin Morris, $1,369.80; v. Lisa Zartman, a/k/a Lisa Himes, $808.92
CKS Prime Investments LLC v. Matt Blotkamp, $1,754.90
Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. Laura Brito, $1,306.19; v. Britni Hiatt Busz, $945.79; v. Norma Monk, $2,982.63; v. Thea N. Sainer, $3,983.44
Cavalry SPV I LLC v. Martin Casey, $4,072.64
Westlake Services LLC, d/b/a Westlake Financial Services v. Peggy Criswell, Robby Criswell, $9,057.55; v. Samantha Croy, $5,855.37
OneMain Financial Group LLC v. Travis H. Davidson, $3,176.37
Midland Credit Management Inc. v. Mia Delacruz, a/k/a Mia Hernandez, $764.05; v. Angela Vickery, $2,170
Capital One NA v. Matthew
Jerry Anders
Jerry Anders, 85, Warsaw, died Saturday, July 5, 2025, at Mason Healthcare.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.
Korbyn Bays
Korbyn Bays, newborn, died Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.
Scott DeVoe
Scott DeVoe, 71, died Thursday, July 10, 2025.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.
Fred Hayes
Fred Hayes, 61, Peru, died Wednesday, July 9, 2025.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.
Patricia Thornburg
Patricia Thornburg, 84, Syracuse, died Friday, July 11, 2025, at her home.
Arrangements are currently pending at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse.
L. Grieser, $5,414.58; v. Ned A. Hunsberger, $3,571.34; v. Terrence L. Radtke, $6,796.55
Jefferson Capital Systems LLC v. Ryan M. Howard, $1,408.19; v. Sarah Miller, $5,531.39; v. Jeremy Wilson, $7,645.76
Spring Oaks Capital Spv LLC v. Darrell James, $3,077.60
Maria Stein Grain Co. v. Matthew D. Kneller, $16,802.16
Midland Credit Management Inc. v. Jessica L. Wellman, $1,226.19
Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Jacquesse McClain-Young, $12,224.63
Crown Asset Management LLC v. Amanda Myers, $3,438.14
Nationwide Cassel LLC v. Erin Rhodes, $4,478.32
Honor Credit Union v. Kayla Yakim, $1,029.58
Evictions
The following evictions have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Neighbors of Timber Creek Estates v. Lauren Everett, Lucy Everett, Kimberly Stanton, Scott Stanton, Janette Young, $8,135
Orchard Ridge Apartments v. Lisa Riley, $3,939.71
Jose Flores v. Anthony J. Rohrbaugh, Samantha A. Rohrbaugh, $4,757.40
Plenaries
The following plenary has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court I, Judge Karin McGrath presiding: Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance, a/s/o Shaub v. Ronald Diaz Salinas, $5,889.25
Superior Court III
The following fines for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:
Speeding — Kendrik M. Raga-Silva, Warsaw, $164.50; Jeremy D. Schwartz, Bourbon, $164.50; Laura D. Politano, North Manchester, $164.50; Jeffrey P. Matney, Warsaw, $164.50; Celia K. Luna, Warsaw, $164.50; Jesus E. Perez Lopez, Warsaw, $164.50; Wyatt M. Reiter, Mentone, $164.50; Md A. Jafar, Warsaw, $164.50; Mikay-
Raine Lambright
ounces, and was 19 inches long.
la R. Lane, Leesburg, $164.50; Ashleigh K. Eisele, Bremen, $164.50
Failure to register, operating with a transferred plate for more than 45 days — Nicholas Newall Clark, Nappanee, $164
Failure to register — Matthew D. Wolf, Pierceton, $164.50
No valid driver’s license — William H. Derrickson III, Warsaw, $164.50
Motorcycle learner’s permit violation, no or improper helmet — Brix L. Addair, Warsaw, $164.50
Driving while suspended, suspension not result of conviction — Brandon D. Tagler, Warsaw, $189.50
Operating with expired plates
Casey A. Burnworth, Warsaw, $164
Failure of occupant to use a safety belt — Susan D. McPeak, Warsaw, $25; Gabriel E. Langohr, Pierceton, $25; Rigo D. Butler, Mentone, $25
Littering — Johnny M. Davies, Syracuse, $239
Unlawful possession of tobacco, e-liquid or an electronic cigarette — William Ezekiel Ihnen, Pierceton, $164
Marriage Licenses
The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court
Melissa Boggs:
Blanton-Quinn
Brooklyn M. Blanton, 29, Warsaw, and Brandon Tyler Quinn, 29, Warsaw
VanDusen-Shepler
Joshua Joe VanDusen, 43, Warsaw, and Jordan Michelle Shepler, 29, Warsaw Wilson-Freisthler
Jeffrey L. Wilson, 59, Syracuse, and Michelle Renee Freisthler, 60, Wapakoneta, Ohio
Spriggs-Shambarger
Lori Jane Spriggs, 56, Claypool, and Brandt Allen Shambarger, 57, Wabash
Warren-Foreman
Julia Warren, 24, Warsaw, and Braxton Foreman, 23, Warsaw Yerkes-Neufeldt
Robert Scott Yerkes, 29, Warsaw, and Natalie Nicole Neufeldt, 24, Warsaw Klotz-Shepherd
Ellie Klotz, 23, Warsaw, and Sawyer Shepherd, 22, Loveland, Colo. Reece-Metze
Cullen Lee Reece, 55, Warsaw, and Hallie Metze, 49, Winona Lake
Continued on page 13
NORBERT NILES
CATHY J. RATCLIFF
CHARLES MYERS
Arielle
Nathan and Miranda (Miller) Lambright, Shipshewana, are the parents of a daughter, Arielle Raine, born at 9:48 p.m. July 8, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 6 pounds, 14
C ounty R epo R t
Vining-Trosper
Tabitha Lynn Vining, 42, Warsaw, and Michael David Trosper, 42, Winona Lake
Schmidt-DeRolf
Cecelia Pauline Schmidt, 80, North Webster, and Eugene Edwin DeRolf, 83, North Webster Lauer-Miller
Kennidy Elizabeth Lauer, 24, North Manchester, and Samuel Alan Miller, 27, Mentone Danner-Strider
Evolette Ruth Lillian Danner, 18, Pierceton, and Timothy Daniel Strider, 31, Winona Lake Pollard-Pollard
John Pollard, 61, Silver Lake, and Kimberly Pollard, 58, Silver Lake
Marriage Dissolutions
The following couples have filed for a marriage dissolution in Kosciusko Superior Courts I or IV: Holloway — Heather Holloway, Warsaw, and Joseph Holloway, Warsaw. They were married Oct. 11, 2014, and separated July 3, 2025. One minor child.
Brown — Kimberley M. Brown, Winona Lake, and Derek A. Brown, Warsaw. They were married Aug. 31, 2013, and separated June 23, 2025. Two minor children.
McKee — Matthew McKee, Rochester, and Tasha McKee, Mentone. They were married Oct. 26, 2013, and separated May 16, 2025. Two minor children.
Byler — Rudy S. Byler, Ina., Ill., and Lovina H. Byler, Nappanee. They were married Nov. 3, 1998, and separated April 21, 2016. Five minor children.
Taylor-Frost — Judah Taylor, Warsaw, and Amber Frost, Warsaw. They were married May 17, 2016, and separated June 26, 2017. One minor child.
Pavis — Jessica Marie Pavis, Lake County, and Esteban Pavis, Warsaw. They were married May 21, 2020, and separated May 25, 2025. Three minor children.
Zolman — David J. Zolman, Pierceton, and Angela A. Zolman, Pierceton. They were married Sept. 19, 2020; no separation date given. No minor child(ren).
Browning — Penny Browning, Milford, and Jeffrey Browning, Wolcottville. They were married June 30, 2018, and separated June 30, 2025. No minor child(ren). Continued from page 12
Local student named to dean’s list
The following local student was recently named to the dean’s list of their respective university:
Eastern Mennonite University Warsaw — Claire Reichenbach
Dr. Nate Bosch, middle, and
Lake Doctor is back for a brand-new season
If you have ever wondered how lakes drive the economy, how marshes differ from swamps, what cyanobacteria is, or what a blood worm tastes like, then the Lake Doctor podcast was made for you.
The Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams released the first episodes of season two with new guests and a new set. Season one is now complete with 26 episodes that are available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or lakes. grace.edu/podcast.
The podcast features the Lilly Center’s Director Dr. Nate Bosch and co-host Suzie Light as they discuss relevant topics for Kosciusko County residents, avid lake-goers, or environmental stewards. While the information on the podcast is generally target-
Nappanee park events, new pool hours set
Pickleball socials will be at Stauffer Park in Nappanee this month and next month.
Pre-registration is appreciated but not required, while space allows.
ed toward Kosciusko County, the information discussed is relevant throughout the Midwest.
Guests are typically local experts, who share their specific knowledge, but there are some guests beyond the county lines as well. The topics covered on the podcast include: property values, invasive species, best management practices, K-12 education, legal lake rights and more related to lakes and streams.
Episodes range from 45 minutes to an hour with each episode exploring unique facts about limnology, the study of freshwater ecosystems.
Listen to the fun yet informative discussion while performing your daily activities or watch the episodes on YouTube or its website. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out.
Thank you to the supporters and listeners who made season two possible as well as Grace Solutions for making the podcast come to life.
The Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams at Grace College conducts research, provides resources, engages and educates residents, and collaborates with local organizations to make the lakes and streams of Kosciusko County clean, healthy, safe and beautiful.
To date, the Lilly Center has conducted scientific research on over 30 streams and 45 lakes. The Lilly Center is driven to create a legacy of stewardship by equipping community members, visitors, and future generations with understanding and to enjoy the county’s natural beauty. For more information, visit lakes. grace.edu.
Come meet up for casual play and some friendly competition. It is free to play but bring your own gear and courts are assigned. It is open to anyone age 8 and up and is a doubles format and round-robin style.
For more information, visit nappaneeparks.recdesk.com or call (574) 773-8585.
There is rotating court assignments based on the number of participants not on skill level. Play is against any teams that attend.
The socials are from 6-9 p.m. July 17, 24, 31 and Aug. 7 and 14. Nappanee Pool has updated its swimming pool hours. The new hours are now 3-7 p.m. Thursday to Saturday.
LAKE DOCTOR PODCAST
Suzie Light with guest Ryan Workman are shown on set discussing green infrastructure. Photo provided by Lilly Center.
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Sacred Heart marks milestone in building campaign
Sacred Heart Catholic Church and School has been advancing its mission to expand Catholic education and enhance parish facilities.
An effort was launched in April 2024 to expand the school, update the church and campus, and add seventh and eighth grades. Now, just over a year into a three-year journey, the campaign has surpassed the halfway point, with more than $4.6 million pledged toward the $9.1 million goal.
How It Began
The seeds of the campaign were planted in the fall of 2022 over dinner with four parish couples and the Rev. Jonathan Norton. At that time, Norton, assigned by Bishop Kevin Rhoades several years earlier, had been tasked with expanding Sacred Heart’s elementary school, which then served students through sixth grade. That evening, the couples committed to launching a capital campaign focused on growing
the school, upgrading the campus and extending Catholic education through eighth grade.
With the support of Rhoades and the Fort Wayne–South Bend Diocesan Finance Council, the campaign officially launched in April 2024. Now 15 months into the 36-month effort, the Sacred Heart community is marking a milestone: more than half of the total goal has already been raised — with 21 months still to go.
Catholic Education In Warsaw
“When Bishop Rhoades installed me as pastor of Sacred Heart in June 2018,” Norton said, “he mentioned that our school only went through sixth grade, despite the parish’s long-standing hope to expand to include eighth grade. The bishop believed this expansion would further support the parish and the growing desire for a Catholic high school in this area of the diocese. Our parish, and school, is focused
on a core mission: to make disciples of Christ. This expansion and these improvements will give our students crucial additional time to mature in a strong Christian environment. I’m truly humbled by the incredible support and hard work of our parishioners in making this dream a reality.”
Helping To Lead
Brad Durcholz and his wife, Bren-
Community Health Clinic Benefit Auction
4 p.m. Friday, July 18. Located at Claywood Event Center, 13924 N. 1100W, Nappanee.
Online Farm Equipment, Toys, Ag Collectibles Auction
Bidding open until 7 p.m. Friday, July 18. Farm equipment, farm toys, semis,flatbed equipment trailer, fuel tank, shop tools, comic books, implement tires, dolls, Longaberger. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Miller Auction
3:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 22. Located 4 miles east of Nappanee on US 6 to CR 13, north 1 1/2 miles to 71035 CR 13.
Fry Auction
3:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 23. Located 2 miles east of Topeka on CR 700S to 4095 W. 700S.
Online Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 22. Open house 5:30-6 p.m. Tuesday, July 15. Property located at 401 College Ave., Winona Lake. Corner lot ranch home. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
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Online Auction
Bidding open until 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 22. Pickup located in Winona Lake. Appliances, jewelry, glass, porcelain, sterling and silver plate pieces, crystal stemware, mobility scooter, home health care items, historical documents, framed speeches, furniture. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Online Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 22. Open house 1-2 p.m. Sunday, July 13. Property located at 7404 N. SR 13, North Webster. Country home with sun room on 4.6 acres. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Farmland Auction
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6 p.m. Thursday, July 24. Located at 2653 E. US 30, Warsaw. Property located on W. 200S, Warsaw. Twenty acres productive cropland. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction. com.
Online Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Friday, July 25. Open house 5:30-6 p.m. Monday, July 21. Property located at 725 E. Fort Wayne St., Warsaw. Four-bed home, detached garage. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Online Auction
Bidding open until 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 25. Pickup located in Warsaw. Arcade games, game tables, advertising, Coca-Cola collection, exercise equipment, appliances,
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Online Coin Auction
Bidding open until 5 p.m. Sunday, July 27. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Peace dollar, Kennedy halves, Franklin halves, walking liberty halves, barber coins, quarter rolls. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction. com.
Likens Real Estate Auction
6 p.m. Monday, July 28. Located at North Webster Community Center, 301 N. Main St. Property located at 8417 E. Backwater Road, North Webster. House, outbuilding, 53 acres in four tracts. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction. com.
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Hochstetler Phone Bid Auction
Bidding open until 5 p.m. Tuesday, July 29. For bidding and bidding updates, call (574) 596-9890.
Recreational Land Auction
6 p.m. Wednesday, July 30. Inspections 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, July 23. Located at Center Lake Pavilion, Warsaw. Property located near 5527 S. 50W, Claypool. 30.54 acres. Schrader Auction, schraderauction. com.
da, have been parishioners since 1986.
“Our three daughters attended Sacred Heart, and we saw the profound impact of a Christian-based, Catholic education,” Brad Durcholz said. “We want to make that opportunity available for more children. Middle school years are especially formative. When the campaign began taking shape, I told Father Jonathan I’d love to be part of it.”
Durcholz teamed up with longtime friend, Todd Davis, both retired and ready to contribute their time and energy.
“Todd and I have worked together for over 30 years. Serving as co-chairs has been incredibly rewarding; it’s inspiring to see the enthusiasm and support for the expansion.”
Davis, who served on the Sacred Heart school board in the late 1990s, recalled an earlier attempt to grow the school.
“My wife, Paulette, and I also had three daughters in Sacred Heart at the time,” Davis said. “We tried to initiate a middle school expansion under Father Phil DeVolder, but after six months of research, we had to admit the time wasn’t right. The parish couldn’t afford it, and enrollment didn’t justify the costs.”
“Today,” Davis continued, “the picture is different. Thanks to Indiana’s school voucher program, the school is nearly self-funded and operating near full capacity, with some classes on waiting lists. Now is the time.”
Work Underway Changes are already visible across
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the Sacred Heart campus.
“Of the $9.1 million goal, $1.3 million is allocated for upgrades to the existing church and school,” Durcholz said. “We’ve already deposited over $2 million in cash and have begun that work.”
Recent upgrades include:
• Renovated bathrooms across the campus.
• New HVAC control software.
• Full LED lighting installation.
• A new A/V system in the current gym (soon to become the parish hall).
• A new roof for the school and gym.
• An upgraded sound system for the church.
• A new HVAC system and soft water system.
• An exit door added to the church’s crying room.
• And many more facility enhancements.
“All of this has been made possible by the incredible generosity of our parish families, school alumni and several local foundations,” Davis said. “It’s amazing to see our vision already coming to life.”
Looking Ahead
As the campaign continues toward its goal over the next 21 months, Sacred Heart remains committed to the mission of expanding Catholic education and strengthening its parish community.
For more information about the “Building for Discipleship” campaign, visit sacredheartwarsaw.org or contact the church office at (574) 267-5842.
This is a full time position covering city, town and county meetings and events as we bring the broadest and most complete news coverage to our 400,000-500,000 weekly website visitors.
Candidate should be naturally curious, adept at asking probing questions to get to the heart of the story, able to meet firm deadlines, and a skilled storyteller.
Internet, social media, computer and camera knowledge and skills important.
Must live in or near Kosciusko County and must have a degree or on-the-job experience in writing, journalism, mass communications or a similar field.
This is a full time position with competitive wage and benefit package.
Position is based out of Warsaw.
If you have the skills, we have a home for you.
NEW ROOF The roof is being replaced on the school and gym at Sacred Heart Catholic Church and School in Warsaw. Photo provided by Todd Davis.
Adventures In Health celebrates 26 years in business
By LAUREN ZEUGNER Staff Writer
“It always smells good in here,” said someone attending the photo announcing Adventures in Health had been selected as the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce Member of the Month. The photo was taken Wednesday, July 9, a week after the business’s 26th anniversary of moving from Chris and Gena Swihart’s home to its current location at 507 N. Huntington St., Syracuse.
Gena started the business in 1991 and it moved to the Huntington location in 1999.
“We really want everyone healthy. That’s what we work toward; having people on track,” she said.
Adventures in Health is a natural health center offering a variety of services that assist people in helping themselves toward a lifetime of wellness. Some of the services offered include biofeedback therapy, massage therapy and ion cleanse foot detox. It also carries a wide assortment of herbal supplements.
Biofeedback is used to analyze points of stress in the body, which can significantly help isolate the actual cause of a physical problem. Adventures in Health’s biofeedback technology can help a client balance stress through energetic feedback and will also provide a great deal of information clients can use to support their body physically, emotionally and intellectually.
Massage therapy can be used to relieve pain, relax and tone the body. Massage also stimulates blood circulation and assists the lymphatic system, improving the elimination of waste throughout the body. Adventures in Health
SYRACUSE-WAWASEE CHAMBER MEMBER OF THE MONTH
Adventures in Health, 507 N. Huntington St., was chosen as July’s Member of the Month for the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce. In the front from left are Carey Larson, Shades to Shutters; Marisol Flores, Adventures in Health; Emily Maggart, Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation and chamber ambassador; Chris and Gena Swihart, owners of Adventures in Health; Tamie Mathews, manager, Adventures in Health; and Jeanetta Slabaugh, Horizon Bank and chamber ambassa-
dor. In the back are Brent Randall, executive director, Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce; Dan Buchman, State Farm Insurance, chamber ambassador; Rita Davis, Remax Partners, chamber board member; Sheryl Colquitt, Eastlund Funeral Home and chamber ambassador; Melody Cusick, Remax Partners and chamber ambassador; Martha Stoelting, Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum and chamber ambassador; Justin Beer, First State Bank and chamber ambassador; and Angie Robbins, Ruoff Mortgage and chamber ambassador. Photo by Lauren Zeugner. has only state-certified therapists on staff.
The ion-cleanse foot detox is a therapy that aids in the natural detoxification of the body. The way it works is a client’s feet are placed in a tub of warm water with an ionic array, which creates a magnetic field and alternates a positive and negative charge in the water. The charged toxins are then pulled from the body into the water.
Other services offered by Adventures in Health include Zyto Compass, craniosacral therapy, lymph drainage therapy, myofascial therapy, foot levelers and more.
In addition to Adventures in Health, the building houses three more businesses: Fresh Aesthetics, owned by Leigh Keirn, specializing in injectables, skin care and more; Salon Ash, owned by Ashlie Knisley, specializing in hair extensions, hair color and haircuts; and CC Permanent Cosmetics, owned by Cassie Correll. She specializes in microshading, lip blushing, eyeliner/eyebrow lamination, hybrid tinting and more.
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