Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club… promotes love of the classics
By PHOEBE MUTHART Staff Writer
Founded in 1977, the Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club is the premier worldwide club dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and enjoyment of vintage Japanese motorcycles (20 years old or older) and the promotion of the sport of motorcycling
Vintage Japanese motorcycles first came to the US in 1958; however, in the late 1960s, interest became really popular
The local chapter of the Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club has many members
Locally, the chapter has about 120 members all over Kosciusko County and beyond Members are from Fort Wayne, Auburn, Columbia City, Rochester and Goshen
Terry Sell of Bourbon has six vintage motorcycles ranging from the years 1964 to 1984 He got his first one when he was 13 years old
“It’s what we grew up with,” Sell said “I’ve had a lot of motorcycles over the years I’ve always rode motorcycles ”
In 1973, he got his first bike, a Suzuki, and since then, some others that have been restored or purchased used, such as a 1969 Suzuki T125 and a Suzuki 250
Japanese brands include: Suzuki, Yamaha, Honda and Mitsubishi, among other genres, Sell said
Gary Rhoades of Rochester is also a collector and has 10 or 12 vintage motorcycles
“It comes and goes,” he said of his collection of cycles
Both Sell and Rhoades both say vintage Japanese motorcycles are their main hobby Interest in the bikes is nationwide, too, the men said
“There’s chapters all over the US,” said Sell “The biggest one is in Kansas City We have friends all over the country ”
The local chapter of the Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club meets the first and third Wednesday of the month in Warsaw
The meetings start at 5:30 p m at Maria’s Restaurant, US 30E, Warsaw The meetings are informal, and anyone who is interested in motorcycles is invited to attend There are no dues and no officers
“A lot of the guys in the group use to be racers,” Sell said
The group has shows in Pierceton annually The shows draw people from other states, too It has had 30 registered bikes or as many as up to 70 bikes attend or as little as 18 bikers
The group also has bikes nights and they attend swap shows
“A swap meet will be in July in Ohio,” said Sell “A national rally will be in Pennsylvania ”
Thousands of members enjoy the many benefits offered by VJMC, including a bi-monthly “Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine” dedicated to vintage motorcycling
One of the most highly- regarded vintage motorcycle publications in the world, the VJMC magazine in-
cludes stories related to vintage bikes and the people who ride them, technical and restoration tips, coverage of bike shows, rallies and local events, and classified ads
For more information, visit vjmc org For more information about the local chapter, call Terry Sell at (574) 371-5862 or email him at terry sell@gmail com
Gary
is
and has about 10 or 12
PASSIONATE RIDERS Terry Sell, left, and Gary Rhoades, right, are members of the Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club. Sell is pictured with his six bikes.
Text and Photos
MAGAZINE FOR COLLECTORS
Rhoades of Rochester
a Vintage Japanese motorcycle collector
vintage motorcycles. He is looking at a copy of “Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Magazine.” Behind him is Terry Sell.
VINTAGE CYCLES Terry Sell of Bourbon has six vintage Japanese brand motorcycles ranging from the years 1964 to 1984.
K now Y our n eighbor
Martie Lennane gives back to the community
By PHOEBE MUTHART Staff Writer
Martie Lennane grew up in Burket and is a Mentone High School graduate of the Class of 1963.
The Burket/Mentone area is where “everybody knew everybody,” she said.
She grew up on a poultry farm. Her dad owned Nelson Poultry Farm.
“We had a hatchery, and I was very involved in 4-H,” she said.
After high school, she became a candy stripper and nurse’s aide at Murphy Medical Center.
“I wanted to go into nursing and get a three-year diploma,” she recalled.
So, she attended the Stamford Hospital School of Nursing in Connecticut.
“I was excited to get out of a small community,” she said. “I wanted to do something different. I liked New England. I was half an hour from New York City.”
Lennane, 79, met her husband, Al, and they married in 1974. He passed away in 2020. After nursing school, she moved back to Kosciusko County in 1979.
She got a job at KCH in the operating room. She was a nurse for 50 years. She retired in 2012.
In 2013, she jointed the Altru-
sa Club of Warsaw. She found out about the club when she attended Bingo for Beaman.
Altrusa founded The Beaman Home, a men’s and women’s domestic violence shelter.
“I knew I wanted to be involved in the community,” she said. “I felt like paying it forward.”
Since then, she has served on its board.
“It is enlightening and fulfilling,” she said. “It’s a new experience being a board member.”
As an Altrusa member, she has been a vice president, director and has served on its board of directors. She also served as a delegate to the district six conference where the club received two individual awards, plus was recognized as a distinguished club.
“We are literacy focused,” she said.
The Altrusa Club does a variety of community service projects. Its members make a meal once a month for Baker Youth Club and deliver Mobile Meals. They also have adopted a class at Lincoln Elementary School in Warsaw.
“We’ve made donations to Habitat for Humanity,” she said. “We were involved in CASA, too. We do a lot.”
In March, the club has a bazaar as a fundraiser. Bingo for Beaman will be Oct. 16.
“We sell out every year,” and she said, 100% of proceeds goes
to the Beaman Home.
She has a daughter, Blaire, and has two grandchildren.
Lennane said she enjoys traveling and went to Europe with her daughter.
Lennane said she has been
Mary Jane Miller Trust Scholarships Granted to Kosciusko County Students for… 2025
The Mary Jane Miller Scholarship Trust was established by
Mary Jane Miller of Warsaw to provide financial assistance to students pursuing higher education. Ms. Miller cared greatly for our county and community. Her ambition was to provide scholarships to high school seniors and college students residing in Kosciusko County.
Michael Valentine and Lake City Bank are co-trustees of the Mary Jane Miller Scholarship Trust. Applications are available each new year at the counselor’s office of all Kosciusko County high schools and at Lake City Bank, Wealth Advisory Group, 202 E. Center St. Warsaw, IN. Applications and additional information can also be found at www.lakecitybank.com/scholarships. Completed application packets will be collected before April 1st in consideration for the next academic year.
Please Congratulate The 2025 Recipients Of The Mary Jane Miller Trust Scholarship
Wawasee
Karissa Boesenberg
Northwood
Kyndra Umbaugh
Warsaw
Kaitlyn Fouts
Jillian Glaze
Josue Montoya
Elijah Wright
Katelyn Brown
Lakeland
Dayton Sibert
Whitko
Keaton Cornell
Other Recipients
Thomas Boggs
Abigail Bowers
Skylar Campbell
McKale Hagg
Leina Helfers
Marissa Howett
Morgan Howett
Roseanna Kagin
Tiana Keene
Nathan Kryder
Avery Landwelren
Kaylynn Miller
Sara Peugh
Keely Roe
Ethan Spencer
Jackson Stover
Nehemiah Wright
“I’ve
had a fortunate
life
and
helping people is fulfilling,” she said.
Car care class for young drivers is scheduled for June 11
Young drivers looking to build confidence behind the wheel and under the hood are invited to attend a hands-on car care class at 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 11. The class will take place at Harvest Coffee and Market in Milford and is open to drivers ages 15–25. This class is sponsored by The Milford Collective.
For just $20, participants will receive expert instruction on basic car maintenance and roadside safety, plus dinner from All Hearts Catering food truck. The goal of the event is to empower young drivers with practical skills, such as checking fluids,
changing a tire, understanding dashboard warning lights and more. Along with that, learn safety tips about what to do on the side of the road during emergencies.
“This class is all about helping young drivers feel more prepared and self-reliant,” said Karena Wilkinson. “We want young people to know how to handle possible emergency situations and day-to-day driving.”
Space is limited, and advance registration is required. To reserve a spot, call (574) 658-3066 or email milfordharvestcoffee@ gmail.com.
HOMETOWN GIRL Martie Lennane grew up in Burket and is a Mentone High School graduate of the Class of 1963. She is also an Altrusa Club of Warsaw member. Photo by Phoebe Muthart.
blessed in life.
History of Milford High School brochure to be gifted at Alumni Banquet
A 16-page history of Milford High School will be gifted to those attending the 100th anniversary of the Milford High School banquet. The reunion will be in the Milford School cafeteria Saturday, June 14.
The original text was typed on a manual typewriter by an unknown author and presented at the annual meeting of the Milford Alumni Association on June 1, 1968.
President that year was Larry Haney; Vice President, Nelson Beer; Secretary, Jeri Bushong (Mrs. D.G. Seely); and Treasurer, Judy Beer, (Mrs. Robert Kitson).
This year there will be a social hour starting at 5 p.m. with a catered dinner served at 6 p.m. The Milford School cafeteria staff will prepare and serve the meal. The program for the evening will begin at 7 p.m. Barrie Rassi, class of 1960, will serve as the evening’s speaker.
Also as a memento of the 100th anniversary celebration, each attendee will receive a souvenir coffee cup displaying a photo of Milford High School and a list of the 15 one room county schools that were consolidated in 1914 to make Milford High School.
This banquet is scheduled to be the final Milford High School Reunion fittingly ending on the 100th anniversary.
Reservations are $18 per per-
son and are requested by Saturday, June 7, one week prior to the June 14 banquet. Checks should be made out to the Milford High School Alumni Association. Mail reservations to Mary Duncan, Milford High School Alumni Association, 118 E. Mock Road, Milford, IN 46542. Additional information about the banquet may be obtained from any of this year’s officers: President Ron Baumgartner, (574) 528-1294; Treasurer and reservations Mary Duncan, (574) 658-9537; or Secretary Margaret Brooks, (574) 658-4640.
Michiana Master Gardeners hosting trip to leading plant wholesaler
Join the Michiana Master Gardeners Association July 31 for a day filled with music, food, friends and of utmost importance — flowers. The MMGA plans a day-trip bus tour to Raker-Roberta’s Young Plants, Inc. in Litchfield, Mich., for “The Connection” event.
The bus will leave the Elkhart County Fairgrounds in Goshen at 8 a.m. sharp and should return to the Elkhart County Fairgrounds by roughly 6 p.m. Travel time is approximately two hours each way and there will be roughly six hours of Extension Master Gardener education hours accomplished through participation in the day trip.
Industry experts will be on hand to talk about the latest and greatest offerings. Be sure to make time to join the tour and one may participate regardless of MMGA membership.
In addition to extensive sponsored areas, landscaped beds, rows, large containers and hanging baskets, there will be exciting things planned in the comparison areas.
The sponsored areas are full of the latest and greatest offerings from the breeder sponsors.
This year, the comparison row trials in the sun will feature: Vinca, African Marigold, Pentas, Lantana, Tried and True (Best Sellers), Compact Patio Vegetables, Sunpatien Types, and Coleus (sun v. shade) and also showcasing Pantone’s “Color of the Year” Mocha Mousse.
In the shade, there will be Coleus (sun v. shade)
A display showing employee inspired combos in containers will be featured.
In the hanging baskets, it is showcasing — scaevola, speckled
petunias, bacopa and jambritania, geraniums and scented geraniums.
The 2025 Specialty-Cut Flower Bed will showcase rows of all the newest and greatest by some of the best breeders in the industry.
An addition to the extensive perennial trials features: buddleia, agastache, sedum (upright types), and asters. These will be in the ground for three years and are in addition to the existing perennial trials.
Last year, RRYP added videos and much more photography to its social media accounts. Search for “Raker-Roberta’s on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook to see all of the latest content and updated information.
Carol Rayl has provided the leadership along with other MMGA members for this day trip. To see over eight acres and 100,000 unique plants dedicated to the horticulture industry sign up today.
The cost is only $30, which includes the Cardinal coach bus transportation, gratuities, the lunch provided by the venue and entrance to “The Connection” event. Checks should be made payable to: Michiana Master Gardeners Association and cash is also accepted. Mail payment and registration form to MMGA Daytrip, 17746 CR 34, Suite E, Goshen, IN 46528, or bring in a labeled envelope to the Purdue Extension Elkhart County office and drop off registration form and payment for the MMGA who has an office there at the same address.
For questions about the event, contact Carol Rayl at (574) 9034848 or novycarol024@gmail. com by email. RRYP are the leading wholesaler of custom-grown young plants for over 42 years. Visit trialgardens.raker.com for more information. Rayl has arranged for the group to travel by Cardinal Bus, which will provide 56 seats and ample room underneath the bus for most accessibility equipment one may need. There will be outdoor time with grassy and varying surfaces, so plan accordingly.
RSVP no later than Monday, June 30. If the initial bus becomes full, a waiting list will be started and if feasible, potentially another bus will be added. Those on the waiting list will be notified no later than the first week of July. Must be age 15 or older to attend; all minors must be accompanied by and be under the supervision of a responsible adult.
HISTORY OF MILFORD HIGH SCHOOL Alumni President Ron Baumgartner is holding a copy of The History of Milford High School brochure to be presented to alumni, past faculty, friends and family members who attend the Saturday, June 14 alumni banquet. Photo by Deb Patterson.
Get ready for a tail-wagging good time. The second annual Pawasee Dog Parade will be held at Oakwood Resort, 702 E. Lake View Road, Syracuse, from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 7. Bring your four-legged friends — and your best costumes — for a morning of fun, laughter, and celebration.
The parade will follow a onequarter-mile route through the beautiful grounds of Oakwood Resort. Participants are encouraged to get creative: decorate carts, wagons, strollers, leashes, and we absolutely encourage you to dress up with your dogs.
Awards will be given for Best Dressed Dog, Best Dog Trick, Best Tail Wag, and other fun categories ... fur real.
Chautauqua-Wawasee, New Hope Pet Rescue, Special O.P.S. K-9 Academy, Syracuse-Wawasee Trails, and Oakwood Resort host this year’s parade. While the event is free, participants are encouraged to make a $15 donation
EDITORIAL OFFICES, CIRCULATION, DISPLAY AND CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING
WARSAW OFFICE MILFORD OFFICE
SYRACUSE OFFICE
114 West Market St. 206 S. Main St. 102 East Main St. Warsaw, IN 46580 P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542 Syracuse, IN 46567 Phone (574) 269-2932 Phone (574) 658-4111 Phone (574) 457-3666 Fax 888-371-2934 1-800-733-4111 Fax 800-886-3796
Out-Of-County: Phone 1-800-733-4111
OFFICE HOURS: 8:00-5:00 Monday Thru Friday www.thepapersonline.com
‘the PAPER’ reserves the right to refuse for publication any advertising that is considered offensive, misleading or detrimental to the public, the newspaper or another advertiser and to edit advertising at its discretion.
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
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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
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to support New Hope Pet Rescue and their important work saving local animals.
Don’t miss this paw-some day of celebration, community, and
canine joy!
For more information, visit ChautauquaWawasee.org or follow Chautauqua-Wawasee on Facebook.
Echoes of the Past announce scholarship winners
During the month of May, the Echoes of the Past awarded three scholarships to graduating seniors of the Class of 2025.
The recipients demonstrated strong commitments to FFA and 4-H as well as community service. The recipients are also pursuing an education in some part of the agricultural field.
Issac Irwin, graduating senior from Whitko High School, is furthering his education at Purdue University. He will be majoring in Agricultural Systems Management. Issac has been involved ed in FFA since middle school and a ten year 4-H member. He was
a part of Whitko’s student council and is a member of his youth group.
Bailey Bussard, graduating senior from Tippecanoe Valley High School, is furthering her education at the University of Wyoming. She will be majoring in Animal Science. Bailey was Reporter and Historian of the Tippecanoe Valley FFA chapter. Bailey is deeply involved in community service as well as her church, doing mission trips and helping with AWANA. She has also been a member of 4-H for ten years and FFA for four years.
Lucas Wilkinson, graduat-
ing senior from Wawasee High School, is continuing his education at Huntington University. Lucas will be majoring in Secondary Ag Education. He is a ten year 4-H member, serving as president for two years, 4-H Junior Swine Club Committee Member, 4-H Junior Dairy Calf Steer Committee Member, and a FFA member for 4 years. He served as president for two years and Vice President for one year. He has extensive community service hours while in 4-H and FFA.
The Echoes of the Past congratulates all the recipients and wish them well in future endeavors.
Warsaw DAR chapter learns about city parks
The Agnes Pruyn Chapman Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution met at noon Tuesday, May 27, at the Pizza Hut East in Warsaw.
The speaker was Larry Plummer, superintendent of the Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department. Plummer has worked for the city since he was 14 as a summer employee at the cemetery. He oversees 140 acres of property within the Warsaw city parks area. The parks department has 20, full-time employees with up to 45 in the summer. They mow 80 acres each week and pick up 78 tons of trash every year.
There are many recreational opportunities for everyone in the city parks, from children’s activities and sports to Friday night summer
concerts at Central Park.
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 female aviatrix, Jacqueline Cochran. She was a friend of Amelia Earhart and by 1938, she was considered the best female pilot in the US Cochran helped form and was the director of the Women Airforce Service Pilots. WASP was disbanded in 1944, and Cochran joined the Air Force Reserve in 1948 as a lieutenant colonel. She retired in 1970 as a full colonel. She was the first woman pilot in the US Air Force and in 1953, she was the first woman to break the sound barrier. Susan Creamer read the secre-
tary’s minutes. Janice Cox gave the treasurer’s report.
The chapter received an invitation from the LaGrange de Lafayette Chapter to join them at 3 p.m. Sunday, July 13, for a Liberty Tree Dedication and Community Awards program.
Gawthrop ended the meeting with a Native American Indian minute on Polly Cooper. She was an Oneida woman from the New York colony who took part in an expedition to aid the Continental Army during the Revolution.
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.
TAIL-WAGGING GOOD TIME Bring your four-legged friends to the second annual Pawasee Dog Parade, from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, June 7, at Oakwood Resort, Syracuse. Photo provided by Chautauqua-Wawasee.
BAILEY BUSSARD ISSAC IRWIN LUKE WILKINSON
Interra adds Eric Stoneburner to agribusiness lending department
Jeremy Bender, vice president, manager agribusiness lending, is proud to add Eric Stoneburner to the agribusiness lending department as an agribusiness lender. With over a decade of hands-on experience in agricultural consulting and a deep understanding of the farming industry, Stoneburner brings a unique blend of technical expertise and relationship-driven service to Interra.
In his new role, Stoneburner will serve the agribusiness lending needs of agricultural and rural enterprises across the region. The position aligns perfectly with his personal mission of helping the agricultural community thrive.
“I’m excited to bring my experience and background into this role to support our local farmers and business owners,” said Stoneburner. “My professional goal is
to build honest and lasting relationships that help our members succeed.”
His knowledge of the agricultural landscape, combined with a member-first mindset, will enhance Interra’s ability to provide tailored financial solutions to businesses that are the backbone of the community.
Stoneburner holds a Bachelor of Science in biology with a focus on soil science and agronomy, providing a strong foundation for the work ahead. Over the past 10 years, he has worked closely with large farms across Michigan, offering consultation services in nutrient management, farm expansion planning, governmental permitting and anaerobic digester implementation. Stoneburner’s efforts have directly supported farms in navigating complex environmental regulations and sustainability programs, including Michigan’s Right to Farm program.
FFW Corporation announces quarterly cash dividend
FFW Corporation, parent corporation of Crossroads Bank, has approved a quarterly cash dividend of $0.30 per share of common stock. The dividend is payable June 27 to shareholders of record June 13.
The book value of FFW Corporation stock was $45.06 per share as of April 30, 2025. The last reported trade of stock at the close of business May 22 was $40.30 per share and the number of outstanding shares was 1,086,281 as of the same date. April 30, the corporation had assets of $567 million and shareholders’ equity of $49 million. The Board of FFW Corporation and Crossroads Bank will continue to evaluate the payment of a dividend on a quarterly basis.
Lake Tippecanoe annual fish, chicken fry June 21
The Lake Tippecanoe Property Owners will host the annual fish and chicken fry 4:30 p.m. Saturday, June 21. The event will be held at Camp Crosley, 165 EMS T2 Lane, North Webster, and will run until 8 p.m. or until sold out.
The event is open to the public. LTPO membership is not required. All proceeds will support lake weed treatment efforts.
The fish and chicken fry is a long-standing tradition that brings together residents from around the lake and surrounding community. Guests can choose between an all-you-can-eat dine-in option at Camp Crosley’s dining
hall, or carryout service from the drive-thru at T1 Lane in Camp Crosley Village. Carryout meals may be delivered to vehicles or picked up at the walk-up table.
Each meal includes fish, chicken, drinks, and condiments. Tickets are $15 per person and free for children 6 and under. Tickets can be purchased on-site or in advance at ltpo.org. Members will receive tickets by mail.
Desserts, including pies, cakes, and cookies provided by the Ladies Auxiliary, will be available for purchase separately in both the dining hall and drive-thru.
The Papers, Inc. holding blood drive June 10
The Papers, Inc. will be holding a blood drive from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 10, in the Milford Community Building. The public is welcome to attend. Call (800) RED-CROSS, visit redcrossblood.org, or contact Kathy Bartman at The Papers at (574) 658-4111, ext. 2386 to schedule a blood donation appointment.
Everyone who shows up for the blood drive will have their name put into a drawing for a $25 gas card. Four names will be drawn Wednesday, June 11, and recipients will have two weeks to pick up their cards at The Papers front desk, 206 S. Main St., Milford.
Calvary Baptist offering vacation Bible school
Calvary Baptist Church is offering a week of free vacation Bible school this June.
The event will be held rain or shine. For updates and more information about LTPO activities, visit ltpo.org or follow LTPO on Facebook.
The bride-elect is the daughter of the late Earl and Phyllis Roberts, North Webster. She earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education with a kindergarten endorsement.
The bridegroom-elect is the son of Sidney Burns and the late Shirley Burns, Isom, Ky. He earned his bachelor’s degree in education and master’s degree in management of technology. He is retired.
The vacation Bible school is geared for children ages 4 through sixth grade.
To register, call (574) 265-3404.
The school will take place from 9 a.m. to noon Monday, June 23, through Friday, June 27, at the church, located at 3065 E. Armstrong Road, Leesburg.
ROBERTS-BURNS ENGAGEMENT Wende Kay Roberts, North Webster, and Barry Burns, Chattanooga, Tenn., announce their engagement and plan to marry at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at Winona Lake Grace Church, 1200 Kings Highway, Winona Lake.
Photo provided by Wende Roberts.
ERIC STONEBURNER
Syracuse American Legion Riders’ Cruise-in has great turnout
Text and photos
By LAUREN ZEUGNER Staff Writer
After being rained out last year, members of American Legion Riders Post 223 were thrilled with the turn out during Friday night’s cruise-in. The cruise-in was scheduled from 4-8 p.m. and by 5:30 p.m. approximately 50 vehicles were on display on the access road in front of the post, located at 1008 S. Huntington St.
The vehicles ranged from vintage, featuring a 1922 Studebaker convertible and a 1944 HalfTrack, to a small fleet of pristine Corvettes. There were also hot rods and classic cars all with a story to tell.
Robert Studebaker, 10th generation to the Studebaker family, said his 1922 Studebaker convertible was in storage for 55 years before seeing the light of day in 2019.
John Heckaman brought his 1944 Half-Track. The vehicle was built by Auto-Car. Heckaman purchased the Half-Track from a friend. During World War II, auto manufacturers White, Diamond-T, Auto and International
made 44,000 Half-Tracks. Today only about 2,400 are left, mostly in Europe, with only 590 in some state of being able to run.
Heckaman said his was never used in combat but at a training base before Universal Studios purchased it and used it in several TV shows and movies.
There was also a 1966 Bonneville which was the owner’s first car and purchased it new off the lot. Later she sold it, only to be able to find it and and buy it back later.
Randy Rinker, who helped organize the cruise-in, brought his 1939 Buick Special. He purchased the car from a gentleman who was 91 and going into an assisted living facility. Rinker said the gentleman’s dad or uncle were the original owners.
In addition to having the cars on display, the post held several 50/50 raffles where for $20 folks could have their pick of vehicle and receive a car- length worth of tickets. Several picked the 1966 Bonneville that was on display. There were also drawings for two, high- end outdoor folding rocking chairs with tumblers and a 9mm handgun.
MISS MOON — This Oldmobile’s sign claims it wasn’t the prettiest car at the American Legion Cruise-in, but it still had all of its original parts while being 66 years old
BONNEVILLE MEASURE Lisa Rinker, left, and Leah Lichtenberger, measure out a car-length’s worth of raffle tickets using a 1966 Buick Bonneville. Several cruise-in attendees purchased $20 worth of 50/50 raffle tickets for a car-length’s worth of tickets. Many chose the Bonneville.
CLASSIC DESOTO — This classic Desoto was just one of the vintage cars on display at the Syracuse American Legion Riders Cruise-in held Friday night, May 23.
HOT ROD Two Cruise-in attendees admire a hot rod on display at the Syracuse American Legion Rider’s annual cruise-in held Friday night, May 23.
Text and Photos
By ELIZABETH HERSHBERGER Staff Writer
A wealth of new displays showing local history awaits all visitors to the Mentone Community Museum at 210 S. Oak St., in Mentone.
The Goshert family’s donation of Iola Tucker Goshert’s toys from the late 1920s to the early 1930s shows the idyllic childhood of a “Mentone girl.”
Goshert meticulously packed away the toys for years and her children only recently found the boxes stacked away in the attic after she died in 2022, says Goshert’s daughter Faith Goshert.
Among the toys are unique musical instruments, fragile paper dolls, games, a precious tea
Local legendary author’s works available at Kosciusko Historical Society
The Kosciusko County Historical Society has added the works of local author, Ambrose Bierce. DVDs titled “Ambrose Bierce: Civil War Stories” are now available for purchase.
The DVD is a collection of Bierce’s three most popular and profound tales of the Civil War.
Bierce grew up in Kosciusko County and attended Warsaw High School in the mid-1850’s.
When he was 15, he left home to work for a small abolitionist newspaper. During the Civil War, he fought in the 9th Indiana Infantry Regiment.
Additionally, he was a legendary writer and is revered as one of the top storytellers of the late 19th century. He mysteriously disappeared in Mexico during the Mexican Revolution in 1913 or 1914 and the circumstances of this death are unknown.
Bierce helped to pioneer the psychological horror story. The DVD brings his most popular and profound tales to life and includes “Story of Conscience,” “One of a Kind Officer” and “An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge.”
“We are excited to offer this new item in our gift shop,” Director Teresa Jones said. “If you like suspense, thrillers, and a surprise twist at the end, then you’re going to love the stories of Ambrose Bierce. It’s important to note that such a profound character in literary history grew up right here in Kosciusko County.”
This acclaimed collection features grand-battle sequences and the signature “surprise endings” that characterized most of Bierce’s short stories.
The DVD is available from the gift shop for $5.
The gift shop, located inside the Old Jail Museum at 121 N. Indiana St., is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.
set, a wooden puppet and much more. Goshert’s uncle, World War I veteran Verl “Hap” Halterman, gave her a World War I era toy truck, which is especially interesting for those curious about that time period.
The museum also has a new display showcasing local veterans through their uniforms and awards. The display shows two private uniforms, a colonel uniform and a sergeant uniform all from World War II. A binder included in the display honors all those in the area who have served in the armed forces.
Museum organizers hope that all local veterans will see their names or the names of loved ones and know that they are not forgotten.
In With The Old, In With The New Items which have long been displayed in the museum are now being rearranged with objects which have long been tucked away as well as new donations. The museum is adding three full cases to the current displays already available for viewing.
Visitors to the museum will see beloved family heirlooms, school and academic displays, a section devoted to agriculture and business, an area for yearbooks and memorials, a section for a local stunt pilot, displays for town history and a dedicated place for sports.
Of course there is a special place on the wall dedicated to
the giant Mentone Egg made by Hugh Rickel. There is a display for Bob Herendeen, the famous stunt pilot from Mentone. A table made from a local tree shows an aerial map of Mentone. Everywhere you look has a different perspective of local history.
“So, we have something for everybody!” says local historian Alice Keirn.
Visitors often spend hours looking through the “People of the Community” binders, organized by name. The binders include obituaries, marriages, news articles, photographs, birthdays, and local groups. With eight binders in all, it’s no wonder people take their time looking through local history.
Come One, Come All
The Mentone Community Museum is open from 1-5 p.m. starting Saturday, June 7, and will be open 1-5 p.m. throughout the summer on Sundays. Make sure to save time to step through the adjoining door and enjoy the Lawrence D. Bell Aircraft Museum, which currently houses three helicopters and its own displays dedicated to Lawrence Bell and his innovations in aircraft.
Museum organizers are eager to expand and have room for more displays. Donations to the Mentone Community Museum are appreciated and can be made by calling (574) 371-5711 or emailing Alice Keirn at amkeirn@centurylink.net.
Walls
Walls
Stairways
Woodwork Staining
Small Patch Repair
Small Patch Repair
Drywall Repair
Drywall Repair
Small Patch Repair
Drywall Repair
HONORING IOLA GOSHERT A display honoring Iola Tucker Goshert is among the items on display at the Mentone Community Museum.
FAMILY MAKES DONATION Faith Goshert stands proudly with one of the displays of Iola Tucker Goshert’s childhood toys.
TOY TRUCK Iola Goshert’s Uncle “Hap” gave her this WWI toy truck.
5
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Friday, June 6
Supporting
Supporting
Supporting
Supporting
Mentone Egg Festival June 5-7
The Mentone Egg Festival June 5-7. The three-day event features entertainment, games, food, a parade in the downtown area, a play area for kids, and a huge car, truck, motorcycle and tractor show. All entertainment events are free. Flea markets and crafters line the main street downtown.
The festival includes a cutest baby contest, a backyard BBQ cookoff, a Car, Truck and Motorcycle Cruise-in, Egg City 5K and one-mile walk, Mentone Egg Festival Parade, and Miss Chick and Mr. Rooster Contest.
This year’s theme is “100 Years of Egg-cellence,” in celebration of Creighton Brother’s 100-year anniversary.
The festival begins at 5 p.m. Thursday, June 5, with a flea market, crafts and food vendors. The Bulldogs will perform at 7:30 p.m. at the fire station.
The fun continues Friday, June 6 with Bell burgers and more at the Bell Museum from 11 a.m. to close. Flea markets, crafts and food vendors will be from noon to 9 p.m. Inflatables and games will be from 2 p.m. to dark.
The 29th annual Egg Festival Car, Truck and Motorcycle show will begin at 4 p.m, with an Echoes of the Past Tractor Show all being held downtown.
A silent auction and 50s and 60s music will be for 6-9 p.m. uptown. The band Show Ford Brothers will perform at 6 p.m.
A pancake breakfast will start the day Saturday, June 7 and is from 6-10 a.m. The Egg City 5K run and one-mile walk is at 8 a.m. The backyard BBQ cookoff begins at 9 a.m.
The parade begins at 11 a.m. The parade marshal is the 100th birthday of Creighton Brothers. Miss Chick and Mr. Rooster contest is at 12:30 p.m. followed by kids games at 1 p.m. and a garden tractor pull. A kiddie tractor pull is at 1:30 p.m. followed by the egg toss contest at 2:30 p.m.
The Mentone United Methodist Church Gospel sing is at 3 p.m. followed by awards for the BBQ cookoff at 4:30 p.m. A cake walk is at 6 p.m. The winners of the cute baby contest is at 6:30 p.m.
The crowning of Miss Mentone will be at 7 p.m. followed by music at 7:15 p.m. A Family Feud game show is at 7:30 p.m.
For more information, visit mentoneeggcity.com/scheduleof-events.
MISS CHICK
AND MR. ROOSTER The 2024 Miss Chick and Mr. Rooster were Gemma Harris, left, and Gracen Harris, both siblings. This year’s contest is at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, June 7. File photo.
EGG FESTIVAL PARADE — The American Legion Honor Guard was in the parade last year at the Mentone Egg Festival. File photo.
VIKING GUARD — The TVHS Viking Guard marching band was in last year’s Mentone Egg Festival Parade. File photo.
Marengo and was a winner in the overall category in 2024. Photo provided by Indiana State Department of Agriculture.
Highlight your photography talents with ISDA photo contest
During the month of June, the Indiana State Department of Agriculture will accept submissions for the 18th annual Indiana Agriculture Photo Contest. The contest is open to all Indiana residents and was created to recognize the hard work and contributions of Hoosier farmers, as well as the beauty of the state’s agricultural landscape.
“We hope Hoosiers will take this opportunity to highlight Indiana agriculture and display the beauty of the state,” said Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith, Indiana’s Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Participants are encouraged to submit photos reflecting the wide array of agriculture. The categories photos can be entered under are:
On the Farm: Showcasing any building, piece of equipment or activity that is a part of life on an Indiana farm.
Faces of Agriculture: Featuring those who grow and produce food, fuel and fiber in Indiana.
Agritourism: Spotlighting Indiana’s seasonal and agricultural destinations, such as orchards,
wineries and farmers markets.
Conservation: Highlighting Indiana’s natural beauty with landscapes, water and wildlife.
In total, 10 winners will be selected: two from each category and two overall. Winners will be invited to attend a special ceremony at the Indiana State Fair, where they will be recognized and receive certificates from Lt. Gov. Beckwith and Indiana State Department of Agriculture Director Don Lamb. Contest winners will also have their photographs featured in the offices of the Lt. Governor’s Family of Business in Indianapolis throughout the year.
“Indiana agriculture makes an impact on a global level,” Lamb said. “We are excited to see photos of the work behind the scenes and the hands that feed us each day.”
Contestants can submit up to five photos in digital format accommodated by a submission form for each photo. Photos will be evaluated based on creativity, composition and category representation. Entries must be submitted by 5 p.m. June 30.
For entry forms, guidelines and criteria, visit ISDA.IN.GOV.
New Hope church offering vacation Bible school
New Hope Free Will Baptist Church will be holding vacation
Bible school in June.
Bible school will take place from 6-8 p.m. Monday, June 9, through Thursday, June 12, at the church, located at 3651 N. Detroit St., Warsaw.
Dear Editor,
Letter to the editor
Quitting smoking or vaping is one of the hardest, and most rewarding, things a person can do for their health. If you’ve been able to quit, we want to take a moment to say: congratulations. You’ve done something courageous and life-changing. And now, your story can make a difference for someone else.
At Live Well Kosciusko, we believe in the power of real, local stories to create real change. If you or someone you love has successfully quit smoking or vaping, we invite
We welcome readers’ letters.
you to visit livewellkosciusko.org/ breathe-well-coalition and click the “Tell Your Story” button. By sharing your experience, you can encourage and empower others who are trying to break free from nicotine.
Those whose lives have been negatively impacted by tobacco, who have maybe lost a relative to lung cancer, are also encouraged to share these stories as well if you feel comfortable.
We know quitting isn’t easy. Whether it took one try or 10, whether you quit recently or years ago, your journey matters. Hearing
from someone who’s been there, who understands the cravings, the stress and the small victories, can be the push someone else needs to start their own quit journey.
And if you’re still working toward that goal: you’re not alone. Free help is available through Quit Now Indiana, a tobacco cessation resource that offers support, counseling and tools to help you quit for good.
Let’s create a healthier community together, one story at a time.
Austin Rhodes Live Well Kosciusko
Our requirements are as follows: Letters must be written to the editor, not the public. They must be signed with full name in ink. Signatures will be printed on all letters. Letters must include an address and phone number, which will be used for verification, but will not be published. Letters may be emailed to dpatterson@the-papers.com. Again, letters must include an address and phone number. We ask that letters be limited to 400 words. Letters longer than 400 words may be edited for brevity.
Writers may be limited to one published letter per month. Readers with lengthy comments should contact an editor about possible guest columns.
Send letters to: ‘the PAPER,’114 W. Market St., Warsaw, IN 46580.
Local students named to dean’s list
The following local students were recently named to the dean’s list of their respective colleges/universities:
Olivet Nazarene University
Warsaw — Luke Yeager
Jacksonville State University
Ligonier — Julio C. Macias
University of Evansville
New Paris — Madisyn Steele
Warsaw — Bianca Jordan, Andrew Potter
Local students named to president’s list
The following local students were recently named to the Trine president’s list: Trine University
Bourbon — Jolie Groves, Lauren Snyder
Claypool — Reid Deneve
Cromwell — Lydia Sue Gow
Ligonier — Zander Brazel, Kristen Cox, Laci Roy
Milford — Colten Edgar, Blake Roose
North Manchester — McKelvey Espeset
Syracuse — Keegan Hurst, Luke Schermerhorn
Wakarusa — Caroline Bontrager
The lessons are geared for children ages 5 through 12. The theme for the school is “Camp Out: Getting S’More of Jesus.”
Warsaw — Thomas Greene, Ryan Hoak, Morgan Howett, Morgan Johnson, Abigail Sanner, Emma Skipper, Sidney Wagner, Colton
Wampler
Winona Lake — Caleb Aukeman
OVERALL CATEGORY WINNER The photo above, titled “Like Father, Like Daughter” was taken by Jadin Wolf from
O bituaries
Verle Gene Hochstetler Jack Of All Trades
Verle Gene Hochstetler, 68, Bremen, died at Community Hospital of Bremen in the early morning hours of Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
Verle was born in Goshen on Nov. 7, 1956, to Dean and Edna (Swartzentruber) Hochstetler. He grew up between Nappanee and Bremen, and attended Bremen Public Schools, where he graduated in 1975.
At the age of 5, Verle could be found standing on an upside-down bucket welding beside his dad. While still in high school, he worked for his dad’s company Equipment Service (known at the time as The Welding Shop), a welding and farm machinery repair business between Nappanee and Bremen. Later, he partnered with his dad in the business before eventually buying the business from him. Interestingly, his dad worked longer for him than Verle did for his dad. Verle prospered in business, later building and co-owning Mint City Villas and owning and managing multiple business enterprises.
A jack of all trades, Verle utilized his many skills for mission work, traveling the world and acting as a site coordinator for building projects in Central and South America, Asia, Africa and the Caribbean. As a member of Nappanee Missionary Church, he led over 30 mission trips through the church to Ecuador, Honduras, New York City, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Mongolia, Belarus, Romania, Kenya, Jamaica, Haiti and Houston. A devout disciple of Jesus, he believed nothing was more important than building up the church — often quite literally.
Following retirement, Verle poured time and energy into enjoying the great outdoors. You could find him at one of his properties checking off a mile-long to-do list that never seemed to get any shorter. An avid hunter and fisherman, he enjoyed making his own shooting “condos” as well as traveling to locations as far flung as Alaska, Florida, Maine, Arizona, Colorado and Wyoming to fish and hunt wild game. He especially loved introducing hunting to others, taking joy in teaching them and providing opportunities to do so. He would often remark how much happiness he received seeing someone else have a successful hunt. For him, any day spent in the woods or in nature was a good day spent.
His creativity was on display the most when challenged to make or create something that hadn’t been made or created before. Seemingly never stumped, he had a knack for visualizing solutions, and it was truly a gift — one that both served him well and also allowed him to bless others over and over.
Later in life, he and his wife Marcia “Marci” shared many adventures on cross-country trips, bicycle and motorcycle rides and winters together in Florida. They devoted much of their time hosting friends at their home, especially their church friends from Nappanee Missionary Church and Grace Bible Church in Sebring, Fla. They also took great pride in watching their children and grandchildren grow and flourish.
Those who knew and loved Verle describe him as passionate, creative, active, adventurous, humorous, hands-on, determined, loyal, godly, generous and lovingly stubborn.
Verle is survived by his wife Marcia (Cramer); Deb Hochstetler; three sons, Landon and wife Stephanie of South Bend, Shawn and wife Megan of Carmel and Austin and wife Charity of Zionsville. He is also survived by his brother, Clair and wife Carole Anne of Cincinnati, Ohio; grandchildren, Aubrey, Paxton, Beckham, Tatum, Jocelyn and Halley; four stepchildren; and 19 stepgrandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dean and Edna Hochstetler; and his brothers, Don and Lee Hochstetler.
A celebration of life service was held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 4, at Nappanee Missionary Church, led by Rev. Dave Engbrecht, with visitation in the chapel from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, June 3, and one hour prior to service.
Memorial contributions may be made to the church or Bethel University.
Michael Beck
Michael Beck, 65, died Monday, May 26, 2025, in Toledo, Ohio.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.
Robert Konkle
Robert Konkle, 89, Warsaw, died Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Parkview Kosciusko Hospital.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.
Kenneth Mathews
Kenneth Mathews, 80, Milford, died Friday, May 23, 2025, at Franciscan Health, Indianapolis.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse.
Barbara Parker
Barbara Parker, 94, Warsaw, died Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Paddock Springs Nursing Home.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.
Ernesto Saldivar
Ernesto Saldivar, 80, Pierceton, died Thursday, May 29, 2025.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.
Local students named to spring dean’s honor list
Students at Cedarville University have been named to the dean’s honor list for the spring 2025 semester. This recognition requires the student to obtain a 3.75 GPA or higher for the semester and carry a minimum of 12 credit hours.
• Nappanee — Jacob Raasch.
• Wakarusa — Nathanael Braun.
• Warsaw — Aidan Bowell, Grant Criss, Samuel Reynolds.
• Winona Lake — Joshua Jones.
Hartsough
named to Western Carolina University’s chancellor’s list
Bailey Hartsough of Ligonier was named to the Western Carolina University spring 2025 chancellor’s list.
Hartsough was among more than 2,900 students to achieve this honor. To qualify for the chancellor’s list, students must earn a GPA of 3.8 or higher. Students named to the chancellor’s list are also named to the dean’s list.
Scam proof your life
By EMILY CHRIST Health and Human Sciences Extension Educator Purdue Extension Elkhart County
In today’s digital age, scams have become increasingly sophisticated, making it crucial to stay vigilant and informed. Knowledge is your first line of defense, so educate yourself about common scams such as phishing emails, phone scams, and identity theft. Regularly check resources, like the Federal Trade Commission website, for updates on new scam tactics.
Creating strong, unique passwords for each of your online accounts can prevent hackers from gaining access to your information. Consider using a password manager to keep track of your passwords securely. Additionally, be wary of unsolicited communications. Scammers often use unsolicited emails, phone calls, or text messages to trick you into giving away personal information. Always verify the source before responding to any requests for personal information or clicking on any links.
Regularly monitor financial statements to catch any unauthorized transactions early. Early detection of fraudulent activity can help you take quick action to minimize damage.
Shred any documents containing personal information before discarding them to prevent identity thieves from retrieving sensitive information. Also, secure your devices by ensuring that your computer, smartphone and other devices have up-to-date security software, including antivirus programs, firewalls and anti-spyware software. Keeping your software updated protects against the latest threats.
Be careful with public Wi-Fi. Avoid accessing sensitive information, such as online banking, over public Wi-Fi networks, as these can be a hotspot for scammers trying to intercept your data. Maintain a healthy skepticism of offers that seem too good to be true, as scammers often use enticing offers to lure victims into providing personal information or making payments.
Finally, if you encounter a scam or suspect fraudulent activity, report it to the appropriate authorities immediately. This could be the FTC, the local consumer protection office, or the website where the scam occurred. By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to scams and protect your personal information from fraudsters.
Kosciusko's ONLY on-site Cremation center
At Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, our caring and knowledgeable staff is here to guide you in making the best choices for your family - decisions that honor your loved one while remaining in your budget.
Choosing Titus Funeral Home's Cremation Center for your loved ones cremation is ideal for many families. We own and operate our own crematory with licensed and certified staff.
At Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, our caring and knowledgeable staff is here to guide you in making the best choices for your family - decisions that honor your loved one while remaining in your budget.
Choosing Titus Funeral Home’s Cremation Center for your loved ones cremation is ideal for many families. We own and operate our own crematory with licensed and certified staff.
Cory Benz Owner & Funeral Director 100% Local Ownership
VERLE GENE HOCHSTETLER
C ounty R epo R t
Court News
Small Claims
The following small claims have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Vanderpool Law Firm PC v. Tracy Crum, $800
Lydia Ladue v. Kirk H. Edwards, $6,589
Heather Helton v. Terry Nicholas Perkins, $2,425.43 Civil Collections
The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler presiding:
JPMorgan Chase Bank NA v. Tyson M. Ashenfelter, $14,666.05
Global Lending Services LLC v. Jaime E. Baca, $11,433
Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Sarah Back, $9,141.46
Discover Bank v. Chasity R. Carpenter, $7,865.25; v. Jose J. Ramirez Figueroa, $4,680.60
Midland Credit Management Inc. v. Kevin Carr, $868.29; v. Ladonna Ceniceros, $836.15
OneMain Financial Group LLC v. Henry D. Komdeur, $12,048.64; v. Madison A. Skelton, $4,556.20
Orbit Leasing Inc. v. Bradley Lent, $7,894.65
U.S. Bank National Association, d/b/a Elan Financial Services v. Gavin Anthony Miner, a/k/a Gavin A. Miner, $16,802.56
LVNV Funding LLC v. Matthew Payne, $3,360.16
Capital One NA v. Ciara Pulliam, $5,734.27
5 Star Property Managers v. Sean Shumaker, $2,258.93
CKS Prime Investments LLC v. Bradley Shelhart, $1,354.14
Absolute Resolutions Investments LLC v. Melissa Smith, $1,117.20
Mariner Finance LLC v. Cortney Spooner, $3,133.19
Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. Brandi Tlahuetl, $1,754.91
Citizens State Bank v. Jared Trowbridge, $13,114.49 Evictions
The following evictions have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Center Street Apartments v. Robert Leer, $3,280
DMS Investments v. Alexis Medemar, Jeremiah Ward, $3,455 Elizabeth Strieby v. Autumn Smith, $9,850 Civil Torts
The following civil torts have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler presiding:
Progressive Southeastern Insurance Co. v. Hailee Sutherlin, $6,499.19
Progressive Paloverde Insurance Co. v. Mikayla Ruiz, $2,379.31; v. Ramone Santiago, $5,255.45 Superior Court III
The following fines for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:
Speeding — Michael J. Chesnut,
Syracuse, $164.50; Lydia C. Slothour, North Manchester, $164.50; Arturo V. Hernandez, Warsaw, $164.50; Bryant R. Shelton, Warsaw, $164.50; Jose A. Bonilla, Ligonier, $164.50; Caleb A. Callaway, Silver Lake, $164.50; Derek L. Toth, Cromwell, 164.50; Beth A. Wells, Warsaw, $164.50; Rhonda R. Thrasher, Milford, $164.50; Gavin M. Wiggs, Syracuse, $164.50; Arthur F. Wischman, Wabash, $164.50; David A. Sawesky, Warsaw, $164.50; Loren L. Burch, Warsaw,Michelle D. Stephen, Akron, $164.50; Jeremiah D. Goodrich, Nappanee, $164.50; Jolvin G. Vargas, Warsaw, $164.50;Sheila A. Reed, Bremen, $164.50; Fanny I. Kelley, Atwood, $164.50; Steven W. Neate, Leesburg, $164.50;Randy W. Johnson, Warsaw, $164.50; Shyla K. Yoder, Pierceton, $164.50;Sharon E. Harris, Warsaw, $164.50
Failure to register — Kenneth D. Light, Winona Lake, $164.50; Cindy J. Poe, Warsaw, $164.50; Kyle T. Schang, Winona Lake, $164.50
No operator’s license in possession — Jennifer Miranda, Warsaw, $164.50
Holding or using a telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle — Tristyn L. Ragon, Rochester, $164.50; Nicholas C. Harker, Etna Green, $164.50; Isabella O. Cano, Warsaw, $164.50; James A. Parker, Warsaw, $164.50
Hunting wild animals, fishing or trapping without a license — Arturo Silva Campos, Cromwell, $164
Operating with expired plates
— Ashley M. Fink, Etna Green, $164; Derek H. Powell, Syracuse, $164; Todd M. Ummel, Kimmell, $164; Anita V. Sikkema, Etna Green, $164
Driving while suspended, suspension not result of conviction
— Gary A. King, Leesburg, $189.50; Keith P. Cripe, Albion, $189.50
No valid driver’s license — Larry A. Negrete, Warsaw, $164.50; Juan Manuel Ortiz Solis, Warsaw, $164.50; Marie K. Valliere, Warsaw, $164.50
Operating a commercial vehicle without a commercial driver’s license — Bruce F. Sweetheimer, Pierceton, $164.50
Failure of occupant to use a safety belt — Anderson J. Amaya Arias, Warsaw, $25; Hayden K. Dirck, Silver Lake, $25; Ruby J. Crace, Warsaw, $25
Passing a stopped school bus when stop arm is out and activated — Haylie L. Koss, Mentone, $189.50; Evan T. Hand, Warsaw, $189.50
Passing in a no-passing zone —
Corey M. Jent, Warsaw, $164.50
Disregarding lighted signal — Hadassah H. Grimshaw, Syracuse, $164.50
Disregarding stop sign — Jayden J. Rodriguez, Syracuse, $164.50
Marriage Licenses
The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court
Melissa Boggs:
Dale-Ottinger
Grant Dale, 22, Claypool, and Lorelei Ottinger, 22, Claypool Huber-Lassiter
Lillian E. Huber, 25, Silver Lake, and Brayden Lassiter, 26, Silver Lake Harris-Williams
Stephanie Harris, 28, Warsaw, and Omar Williams, 29, Warsaw Demopoulos-Rodriguez
Elias Christopher Demopoulos, 21, Warsaw, and Emily Alecia Rodriguez, 27, Warsaw Luzenski-Wurtz
Megan Luzenski, 28, Warsaw, and Zachary Wurtz, 28, Warsaw Yoder-Kuhns
Lamar C. Yoder, 28, Nappanee, and Loranna P. Kuhns, 27, Bremen Treece-Lundy
Benjamin Treece, 23, Warsaw, and Annie Lundy, 22, Jamestown Felton-Orr
Hayden Felton, 21, Mentone, and Morgan Orr, 21, New Paris
Hughes-Bishop
Joshua Ryan Hughes, 48, Warsaw, and Michelle Marie Bishop, 42, Warsaw Boyd-Rex
Cody Michael Boyd, 32, North Webster, and Jennifer Mae Rex, 37, North Webster
Marriage Dissolutions
The following couples have filed for a marriage dissolution or legal separation if noted in Kosciusko Superior Courts I or IV:
Blair — Nicky Lee Blair, Warsaw, and Elizabeth C. Blair, Claypool. They were married July 11, 2021, and separated Jan. 28, 2022. No minor child(ren).
Grossman — Julie Grossman, South Whitley, and Scott Grossman, South Whitley. They were married June 15, 1993, and separated May 8, 2025. No minor child(ren).
Wiese — Gregory Scott Wiese, Warsaw, and Corie Amber Wiese, Warsaw. They were married Dec. 12, 2024; no separation date given. No minor child(ren).
Graf — Dawn Graf, Warsaw, and Adam Graf, Akron. They were married Aug. 9, 2023, and separated Jan. 28, 2025. No minor child(ren).
Bishopp — Katie Bishopp, Leesburg, and Collin Bishopp, Leesburg. They were married Aug. 12, 2023, and separated May 28, 2025. No minor child(ren).
p u B li C A u C tions
Three-Day Antique Auction
8 a.m. Thursday through Saturday, June 5-7. Located at Chupp Auction Center, 809 S. Van Buren St., Shipshewana. Forrest Lammon Trust Auction
9 a.m. Saturday, June 7. Located at 345 S. Van Buren St., Shipshewana.
Wawasee Channelfront
Property Auction
11:30 a.m. Saturday, June 7. Open house 4-6 pm. Tuesday, May 20 and 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 24. Located at 11510 N. Ogden Point Road, Syracuse. House with walk-out basement, garage with apartment, 50’ channel frontage. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Truex Real Estate And Personal Property Auction
2 p.m. Tuesday, June 10. Located at 30550 CR 42, Wakarusa. Chevy pickup, lawn and garden, woodworking and shop tools, hunting and archery equipment. Three-bed ranch home with attached garage. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Phone Bid Real
Estate Auction
Bidding open until 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 10. Property located at 12158 CR 24, Middlebury. Public inspections 4-6 p.m. Tuesdays or by appointment. For bidding and bidding updates, call (260) 4990216 or (260) 499-0093.
Online Auction
Biding open until 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 10. Pickup located in Bremen. Glass, porcelain, framed maps, nautical pieces, quality furniture, Singer sewing machines, antiques, Dutch oven, oil paintings, toys. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Online Collector Doll And Toy Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 11. Pickup 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday, June 12, at 416 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. Bid online at bid.kraftauctions.com.
Sidney Trade Center Online Auction
Bidding open until 6:30 p.m. Friday, June 13. Pickup located at 307 S. Main St., Sidney. Grills, smokers, summer activity equipment, appliances, area rugs, exercise equipment, furniture. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Online Equipment And Vehicle Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 17. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Tractors, semis, farm, hay, and livestock equipment, vehicles, trailers, tools, boats, ATVs. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com. Shipshe Pizza And Mini Golf Phone Bid Auction
Bidding open until 5 p.m. Wednesday, June 18. Property located at 145 E. North Village Drive, Shipshewana. For bidding and bidding updates, call (260) 499-0216 or (260) 4990093.
Online Industrial Supplies And Tools Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Thursday, June 19. Pickup 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, June 20, located at 1420 W. Bike St., Bremen. Bid online at bid.kraftauctions.com.
Land Auction
6 p.m. Thursday, June 19. Inspections 4-6 p.m. Thursday, June 12. Located at Kosciusko County Fairgrounds, 1400 E. Smith St., Warsaw. Property located northeast of Warsaw on 300N and 400E. Tillable land, 48 acres in four tracts. Schrader Auction, schraderauction.com.
Penrod Real Estate Auction 6 p.m. Thursday, June 19. Open house 4-6 Monday, June 2. Located at 914 S. Martz St., Syracuse. Five-bed, 3 1/2-bath house with potential pier spot. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Everett Chase Guthrie
Brandon and Whitnie (Reeve) Guthrie, Wakarusa, are the parents of a son, Everett Chase, born at 6:15 p.m. May 22, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 8 pounds, 7.6 ounces, and was 20 inches long. Everett joins a sibling, Owen.
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Milford Lions Festival brings fun for everyone
By PHOEBE MUTHART Staff Writer
Joe and Ellen Shetler were named Senior King and Queen at Milford Lions Festival Saturday, May 24. That wasn’t the only excitement at the festival. There were free rides, car show, a pancake breakfast and more.
The weather couldn’t be much better with temps in the mid-50s and 60s and sunny skies.
The day began with an all-youcan-eat pancakes and sausage breakfast, sponsored by Milford Kiwanis Club. Despite the big crowd that came to get their morning meal, the Kiwanians
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had plenty of food to go around.
Shortly after one meal ended, another began, this time at the Milford Fire Station, where the town’s volunteer firefighters were busy grilling their always-popular ribeye steak sandwiches.
A variety of live entertainers took to the stage, such as local resident Adrienne Frailey, John Gaut, The Spaniels Forever, Quentin Flagg and Big Daddy Dupree.
The annual crowning of the senior queen and king started a full day of activities on the Lions Club stage. Joe and Ellen Shetler were given the honor. Joe Shetler was building commissioner in Milford for 30 years and is president of the Milford Food Bank Board.
The Shetlers have been married 53 years. They attend Milford Chapel. They have made many trips to Jamaica leading youth groups to help build homes for single mothers. They have
four daughters and 12 grandchildren. They said “Milford has been good to them.” They feel God led them here where they started out in a little home on Main Street.
During this year’s Milford Lions Festival, members of the Friends of the Milford Library held an annual sale on the library lawn, offering books, music, movies and other materials. The proceeds benefited the Friends, which in turn spends the money to support library projects.
The east side of Main Street, from Catherine Street to Fourth Street, was lined with a variety of shiny automobiles. They were there for the cruise-in, sponsored by Kosciusko Masonic Lodge No. 418. Throughout the afternoon, B.A.J.A. offered free carnival rides for the kids. The rides were sponsored by local businesses. Also set up along the downtown streets were a variety of food and craft vendors.
Trade group awards $3,000 scholarship to Manchester student
Blake Schroeder, son of Travis and Wendy Schroeder, Pierceton, was recently awarded a $3,000 scholarship from the National Tractor Parts Dealer Association. Blake, who attended Whitko Jr./ Sr. High School in South Whitley, will be starting his second year at Manchester University, pursuing a degree in business.
The National Tractor Parts Dealer Association is a trade association serving the agricultural and industrial industries with members throughout the United States, Canada, Argentina, Germany, Ireland, Italy and the United Kingdom. The NTPDA awards scholarships yearly to members, members’ employees and their
families based on academic achievement, extracurricular and community activities and leadership abilities. Blake demonstrated outstanding qualities in each of these areas, according to the NTPDA, which was pleased to present him with the scholarship. His sponsor is Diesel Power Group, located in Pierceton. For more than four decades, DPG has provided truckers, farmers and fleet managers with re-manufactured diesel engines. Brands that DPG remanufactures are CAT, Cummins, Detroit, Mack, John Deere and International engines.
To learn more about the National Tractors Parts Dealer Association, visit ntpda.com.
Autos For Sale W010
The 2025 Ronnie Shoemaker Awards were recently presented to three Lincoln School students chosen by their teachers and staff. School is not always easy and this award is for those students who encounter obstacles but persevere.
The Ronnie Shoemaker Award was started to honor and praise the hard work, determination and perseverance of students in the fourth, fifth and sixth grades at Lincoln
Elementary School
Each received a Lincoln Lion medallion, certificate of achievement that recognized their characteristics of good citizenship, hard work and perseverance and a silver coin.
Congratulations to this year’s recipients, Savannah Rusher, fourth grade; Layla Defries, fifth grade; and Janelley Bornes, sixth grade.
The Shoemaker family is appreciative of the Lincoln PTO.
2025 RONNIE SHOEMAKER AWARD WINNERS Shown are the recipients of the 2025 Ronnie Shoemaker Award recipients at Lincoln Elementary School. Pictured from left are Layla Defries, Ronnie Shoemaker, Savannah Rusher, Janelley Bornes and Lincoln Lion. Photo provided by Ron Shoemaker.
CARNIVAL RIDES
SENIOR KING AND QUEEN
SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT Blake Schroeder, center, accepts a scholarship award from Robert Griggs, right, chief executive officer of Diesel Power Group, Pierceton. Blake’s father, Travis Schroeder, is shown on the left. Photo provided by Diesel Power Group.
Sarah Davis earns degree
Lee University, Cleveland, Tenn., congratulates more than 485 students, who received their academic degrees May 10.
Sarah Aleisha Davis, Warsaw, earned her Bachelor of Science in liberal studies.
Local students named to dean’s list
The following local students were recently named to the dean’s list of their respective colleges/universities:
Cedarville University
Nappanee — Gabrielle Vincent
Warsaw — Jeremy Johnson, Joshua Lesko, Colton Martin University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Wakarusa — Abigail Weaver
Trine University
Leesburg — Joshua Metcalf
Nappanee — Dentrayives Woods
New Paris — Carter Streit
Syracuse — Mariah Hurst, Ezekiel Keim
Warsaw — Macy Bonifield
Winona Lake — Jackson Reed
Indiana State University
Cromwell — Avery Gum-Hales
Milford — Ty Brooks, Gabrielle Cone
North Webster — Ian Kaase
Warsaw — Reid Marie Deaton, Sawyer Johnson, Icker Salazar, Johnathan West
GIRL
CELEBRATION Board members attending the 2025 Girl Scouts of Northern Indiana-Michiana annual celebration event includ-
Seated in the front row from left are Melinda Crews, Chief Executive Officer Sharon Pohly and Julie Spears.
Warsaw woman elected to regional Girl Scouts board
Girl Scouts of Northern Indiana-Michiana elected board members at its annual celebration event held Saturday, April 26, at Camp Ella J. Logan near Syracuse, including electing Jennifer Molinda, Warsaw, as an at-large director for a three-year term ending in 2028. Other at-large directors elected for the same term length were: Melinda Crews, Brian Spahr and Angel Suttle, all of Fort Wayne, and Kristin Miller, Auburn.
Board development committee members elected for two-year terms ending in 2027 include: Jon-Myckle Price, Logansport; Amy Roush, South Bend; and Robin Tribbett, Fort Wayne.
Continuing board members include: Lisa Cashel, Julie Spears, Amy Roush, Anne White, Heather Herron, Jean Fahy, Robin Tribbett, Andie Mosely, Emma Steadman, William Schmuhl and Katie Frayer.
‘Matter of Balance’ helps participants feel steadier on feet
Purdue Extension of Kosciusko County recently presented the fall prevention program “Matter of Balance” at North Webster Community Public Library.
The program is geared toward older adults who tend to restrict their activities because of concerns about falling.
The program consists of eight, two-hour interactive sessions that emphasize practical strategies to manage falls. Participants learn to view falls as controllable; set goals for increasing physical activity and preventing falls; make changes to reduce fall risks at home; and ex-
ercise to increase strength and balance.
Recent evaluations involving eight participants at the library revealed the following outcomes:
• 75% of participants reported exercising regularly.
• 75% gained confidence in their balance and steadiness on their feet.
• 75% learned effective strategies to improve their physical strength.
“Because of this class,” one participant said, according to a news release from Purdue Extension, “I’ve increased my stretching and
exercise routines and even rearranged my cabinets at home for easier access, which has made my living environment much safer.”
“Matter of Balance” could benefit anyone who is concerned about falls, is interested in proving balance, flexibility and strength, who has fallen in the past or who has restricted activities because of falling concerns.
The cost to attend the program is $25. Interested individuals are encouraged to call the Kosciusko Purdue Extension office at (574) 372-2340 to be placed on the wait list for upcoming sessions.
During the annual celebration, members vote on important issues, elect board members and receive a State of the Council address. Further, Girl Scout adult members
and community partners, who have helped local Girl Scouts throughout the year, are recognized.
For more information about GSNI-M, visit gsnim.org.
Elkhart County Extension to host Ag Connect 2025
Mark Evans and Kathryn Jennings, Extension Educators with Purdue Extension Elkhart County, are excited to host Ag
Connect 2025 from 5-8 p.m. Friday, June 13 at the Elkhart County Extension Office (enter through the west side of the building) located at 17746 CR 34, STE E in Goshen.
This event is designed for everyone involved in the agricultural industry —whether in crops or livestock — to come together for an evening of valuable insights and meaningful conversations. Attendees will hear from two agricultural market specialists, Michael Langemeier and Derrell Peel, who will provide the latest updates and outlook on market trends and conditions.
The evening also features a free meal prepared by the Elkhart County Pork Producers, who will be serving up pork burgers hot off the grill.
Ag Connect 2025 is more than just a meeting — it’s an opportunity to network, share ideas, and strengthen connections within ther ag community.
To help plan, register in advance by contacting Mark Evans or Kathryn Jennings at (574) 533-0554, or via email at mevans@purdue.edu or jennin30@purdue.edu.
For more information, contact Kathryn Jennings at the extension office, 574-533-0554.
Standing in the back row from left are Angel Suttle, William Schmuhl, Andie Mosley, Dr. Tom Edington, Kristin Miller, Jana Grothaus, Brian Spahr, Jennifer Molinda, Anne White, Jean Fahy and Emma Steadman. Photo provided by Girl Scouts of Northern Indiana-Michiana.
DARRELL PEEL
MICHAEL LANGEMEIER
Summer At The Lake 2025
KOSCIUSKO HOSPITAL — The high-quality care the lakes community depends on is at Parkview Kosciusko Hospital.
In addition to a 24/7 emergency department, patients can access a variety of outpatient services, including cancer care, lab services, advanced diagnostic imaging and rehabilitation and primary and specialty care offices.
Inpatient and surgical services are anchored by two operating rooms, two procedure rooms and 19 pre-and post-anesthesia care unit bays.
For those growing their family, the Family Birthing Center features a dedicated C-section suite and seven private labor, delivery and postpartum rooms, along with advanced fetal monitoring.
Parkview Kosciusko Hospital is located at 1355 Mariners Drive. Photo by Parkview Health.
Noah Berger, 4, Lake Wawasee is shown with a prize catch from fishing at the lake. Photo by Reagan Berger.
Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce announces summer events
The Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce has released its schedule of events for the summer, featuring networking opportunities, educational workshops, ribbon cuttings and golf outings.
The Chamber will host a ribbon cutting ceremony for Wee Warriors Micro-Daycare 11:30 a.m. to noon Wednesday, June 4, at its new location inside Calvary United Methodist Church. The event will be held at the south end of the church building.
The Chamber’s monthly Board of Directors meeting will take place noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, June 5 at the Chamber office, 207 N. Huntington St.
Ritter’s Electric, Heating and A/C has been named the Chamber’s Member of the Month for June. A brief presentation and photo opportunity will occur at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday, June 11 at Ritter’s location, 9780 N. 300E.
The Chamber’s Ambassador Committee will hold its monthly luncheon meeting from 12:15 to 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 11, at The Frog, 1116 S. Harkless Drive. All ambassadors are welcome.
The first session of the Chamber’s new Lunch & Learn series will be 12:15 to 1 p.m. Thursday, June 12 at the Chamber boardroom. This free, members-only workshop will introduce new tools available on the Chamber’s website. Attendees are encouraged to bring their laptops, login credentials and lunches.
Chamber members are invited to a Business After Hours networking event
4-6 p.m. Thursday, June 12 at Brew City Roasting Company, 605 S. Huntington St. Guests can have refreshments and exchange business cards in a casual setting.
The annual Milford Food Bank Golf Classic will take place Thursday, July 10, at Maxwelton Golf Club, 5721 E. Elkhart County Line Road. The event kicks off with a noon shotgun start. Team registration is $500, with sponsorships starting at $250.
Also on July 10, the Chamber will host a Business After Hours event 4-6 p.m. at Blue Barn Berry Farm, 9139 N. CR 300E. Members can enjoy a country setting while sampling food and networking.
A Business After Hours event will be held 4-6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7 at South Shore Social, 10601 N. SR 13. The evening includes food samples and networking opportunities on the patio and dining room.
Chamber members will have another networking opportunity 4-6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4 at RE/MAX Partners, 300 S. Huntington St.
The Chamber’s annual golf outing returns to Maxwelton Golf Club with two tee times: 8:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Registration and further details will be announced.
All events are free and open to Chamber members unless otherwise noted. For more information, visit swchamber.com.
PARKVIEW
SUMMER EVENTS The Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce has announced its summer events. Photo by Town of Syracuse.
SOUNDS OF SUMMER — The annual Wawasee Flotilla will be Saturday, July 5. This year’s theme is “Sounds of Summer.” File photo.
‘Sounds of Summer’ theme for Wawasee Flotilla
The annual Wawasee Flotilla will be Saturday, July 5, which is a perfect time to celebrate independence, freedom and national pride. This year’s theme is “Sounds of Summer.”
The flotilla is not just for decorated boats. The event is also for those who want to use their creativity to decorate their piers or homes.
The decorated boat entries are asked to gather in front of the Wawasee Spink Condos at noon. The parade will begin at 12:30 p.m., moving counter-clockwise
around the lake.
To be eligible to win an award, participants on land or water need to register. Registration forms are available at retailers in Syracuse and at Team Tuttle Mortgage, SR 13, Syracuse, or call (574) 4573775 or email hollytuttle@yahoo.com to have a registration form sent. Participants may also register the day of the flotilla at the judge’s boat.
This year’s special awards will be the coveted Commodore Cup, Department of Continued on page 6
When I Say Good You Say Neighbor
STATE FARM — Which one is the cardboard cutout: Dan Buchman or Jake from State Farm? State Farm agent Dan Buchman loves what he does and it shows. He enjoys helping people with their insurance needs. His insurance office is located at 1101 S. Huntington St., Suite 2, Syracuse. Stop by and say “hi” to him or “Jake.” Photo provided by State Farm.
Chautauqua-Wawasee announces summer schedule
Chautauqua-Wawsase, located on the shores of Lake Wawasee in Syracuse, will be offering several family-friendly events this season.
Back by popular demand will be the Pawasee Dog Parade, which will be held 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 7 at the Oakwood Resort, 702 E. Lake View Road, Syracuse. Bring your furry friend in his or her best costume. Awards will be presented for best dressed dog, best dog trick, best tail wagging and other categories.
Chautauqua-Wawasee has invited Teddy and Edith Roosevelt to speak as part of its Patriotic Speaker series which will be held 4:30-5:30 p.m. Sunday, June 29 at Wawasee High School Auditorium, 1 Warrior Path Building 1, Syracuse. Teddy and Edith will share stories of their lives together, focusing on a love of nature and conservation.
At 7:30 p.m. that same day on the lawn of the Oakwood Resort, the Fort Wayne Philharmonic’s Patriotic Pops will perform. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket. Stop by the Chautuaqua tent for some free patriotic goodies.
The Famous Hoosiers series will feature Eli Lilly 4:30-6 p.m. at the Oakwood Resort. Join Dr. Gunderman, author of the book “Hoosier Beacons,” at the Oakwood Resort as he shares amazing tales about Indiana’s own Eli Lilly, a Union Army veteran and pharmaceutical chemist. In 1876, Lily started a business that is today the largest pharmaceutical company in the world.
This summer, Chautauqua is also offering Plein Air Wednesdays with Dave Broerman. Join Broerman and friends at the Wawasee Art Gallery and then head out to spots around Syracuse for a relaxing Wednesday evening of painting landscapes. Bring your own painting supplies if you have them as limited supplies will be available. The group will meet 5-8 p.m. June 4, 11, 18 and 25; July 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30.
A pottery workshop will be offered 5-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, 21 and 28. Meet at the Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N. Long Drive, to create useful, beautiful and functional works of art. This threeday workshop explores hand building and glazing techniques. It is limited to 8 people and there is a fee.
A stained glass workshop is scheduled for 5-7:30 Thursday, Sept. 4, 11 and 18 at the Syracuse Community Center. The class will be taught by Sally Mahnken and there is a fee.
Chautauqua-Wawasee will be participating in North Webster’s Dixie Days this year. Come visit the Chautauqua-Wawasee booth on Main Street. Learn more about upcoming programs plus kids receive a free gift.
Revitalization of the Miami Culture: Indiana and Beyond will be held 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 6. Previous programs about regional Miami Native Americans have been so popular Logan York, Miami Tribal Historic Preservation Officer will present information on the history and culture of the Miami
Food Truck Fridays in downtown Milford runs June 13 to Oct. 13
Food Truck Fridays in Milford are held the second Friday of each month from June to October. The event is held from 5-8 p.m. on Main Street in Milford.
The Meet Milford group has local food trucks, free family-friendly activities, live entertainment and so much fun.
Make plans to have fun with this year’s new themes:
• June 13: Growing Our Community
Native Americans
Pre-History of Northern Indiana will be held from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11 at the Syracuse Community Center. This is part of Chautauqua’s Digging Through History series. Pat Mooney of the Indiana Archaeologist Society and Bryan Warder will present the program.
Life and Time of Potawatomi Chief Five Medals will be held 6:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12 at the Syracuse Community Center. Come learn about Wannangsea, a leader of the Elkhart River Potawatomi. He led his
people in defense of their homelands and was a proponent of agriculture.
Tickets are now on sale for the popular Then and Now Historical Cruise, which will be held 1-3 pm. Thursday, Sept. 25. This cruise sells out quickly for both the spring and fall cruises, do not wait to purchase tickets.
Tickets are $25. Board the S.S. Lillypad at The Frog Tavern, 116 S. Harkless Drive, Syracuse.
For more information or to sign up for classes, visit chqw.org.
(Eco-friendly).
• July 11: Pirate’s Treasure Island Adventure.
• Aug. 8: Summer Beach Party and Street Dance.
• Sept. 12: Community Game Night.
• Oct. 10: Fall Fling (the finale).
For more information or to become a vendor, visit meetmilford.org or its Facebook page.
FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS — Food Truck Fridays in Milford are held the second Friday from June to October. The event is held from 5-8 p.m. on Main Street in Milford. Photo by Lilli Dwyer.
or email info@ thepropertycompanyllc.com. Photo provided by The Property Company.
Lions Club holds 79th Mermaid Festival
The North Webster Mermaid Festival presented by the North Webster Lions Club will return this year for its 79th anniversary. The theme this year is “Circus Under the Big Top.” The Festival will begin Wednesday, June 18, at 5 p.m., but the North Webster United Methodist Strawberry Festival on the festival grounds starts at 4:30 p.m. The Annual Cutie Parade is scheduled at 6:30 p.m. on opening day on Main Street in North Webster. The Cutie Parade entry is free of charge as Shoop Sports and Youth Foundation will provide chances to win a portion of $30,000 of scholarship money. The Cutie King and Queen pageant, as well as the Queen of the Lakes Pageant, also offer scholarship money.
The Mermaid Festival Parade will take place at 4 p.m. Saturday, June 21, on Main Street. The Queen of the Lakes Pageant is later in the day at 7 p.m. at the North Webster Community Center.
For more information visit nwmermaidfestival.com or email event officials at nwmermaidfestival@gmail.com. You can follow the Mermaid Festival on Facebook at facebook.com/mermaidfestival.
If you have questions you can also call the office at (574) 834-4316. The office is not manned on a daily basis, so leave a message and someone will return your call.
SHADES • BLINDS • DRAPERIES
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Another main event on Wednesday, June 18, is the North Webster Lions Club Bicycle Give-A-Way at 8 p.m. The band Beez and the Rocker with the Leesburg Wrecking Crew will perform immediately following the bicycle giveaway.
‘Sounds
Continued from page 4
Natural Resources, Wawasee Property Owners Association, and on-shore, among others.
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Thursday, June 19 will feature the Queen City Stunt Circus at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on Merlin’s Stage. The Queen City Stunt Circus will perform at the same times on Friday, June 20, and have four showings on Saturday, June 21.
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Tactical Force Laser Tag will take place from 5 p.m. to close on Thursday and Friday. On Saturday, June 21, it will run from noon to close.
The Old Man Band will take Merlin’s Stage Thursday, June 29, at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 21, will see a performance from the the Lion’s Karate Academy at 7:30 p.m. on Merlin’s Stage.
The Cutie Pageant is set for 7 p.m. Friday, June 20, at the North Webster Community Center.
Float category awards will be float, classic, wooden, antique boats and onshore pier display.
The Commodore Cup will be awarded immediately after the parade in front of the Spink. All other awards will be published on the Wawasee Flotilla Facebook page and presented at the Channel Marker between 11 a.m. and noon the next day, July 6.
People can register with the registration form online at wawaseeflotilla.com, emailing it to wawaseeflotilla@gmail.com, or by calling (574) 457-3775. Your official flotilla number will be emailed to you shortly after you register.
Visit the flotilla’s Facebook page, facebook.com/Flotilla for updated information.
MERMAID QUEENS — The 2024 Mermaid Festival Queens of Lakes Court ae pictured. Seated in front is 2024 Mermaid Festival Queen of Lakes Madison Nunez. In the back row from left are Miss Barbee Lake Lillian Kelsey, Miss Wawasee Lake Rachel Studebaker and Miss Kuhn Lake Chloe Bollinger. The Mail-Journal file photo.
Dixie Day Festival set for July 26
Dixie Day is back again this year and is set for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 26. The day will kick off with the renamed Popeye and Olive Oil 5K road race, with proceeds going to the North Webster Food Pantry. The 5K used to me called the Sailors and Mermaids Dixie Day Dash.
One of the event’s biggest highlights is the annual scavenger hunt. The top prize is Chamber Cash, which can be used at any participating chamber member locations. You can find the scavenger hunt details online or visit the chamber’s information tent during Dixie Day to participate.
On Pilcher’s Lawn and West Washington Street, visitors will discover artisan and craft vendors offering unique and artistic gifts, as well as household staples. West Washington Street will also be lined with food trucks.
The Mermaid Festival Grounds will feature activities starting Friday, July 25, and will continue into Saturday.
The Lakes Area Boat Show and Sale runs from 3-6 p.m. Friday and continues throughout Saturday. Participants will have the opportunity to check out the latest 2025 boat models and features.
On Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. car enthusiasts can enjoy a classic and modern car show. Entrants compete in categories based off of the age of the car. A people’s choice award will also be presented. Entry fee is $20 per vehicle but is free to spectators.
SHOWCASE IN NORTH
vendor fair at the 2024 Dixie Day Festival. Photo by Lauren Zeugner.
Special extra cruises for the Dixie Sternwheeler will be available to at 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the Cove located at the corner of Huntington and South Dixie Drive.
Local merchants will join the festivities with special deals and activities throughout town. If you need a break from the summer heat, stop by the North Webster Community Center to browse more artisan and craft vendors. Be sure to visit the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber Visitor Center for lake area maps and additional information about North Webster.
from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. throughout the summer. Along with a sloped sandy beach, the park offers a playground, picnic area, lake access for boat launching and clean lake for swimming and fishing.
Local beaches offer a place to stay cool for summer heat
Kosciusko County summer revelers can beat the heat and humidity at several beaches located at various lakes. All venues are “swim at your own risk” if no lifeguard is on duty.
Milford
The beach at Waubee Lake Park, 325 E. Camp Mack Road, is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. throughout the summer. Along with a sloped sandy beach, the park offers a playground, picnic area, lake access for boat launching and a clean lake for swimming and fishing.
North Webster
North Webster town park, South Dixie Drive, offers a sandy beach, swing for adults, picnic shelter and public piers to bring in boats. Other activities at the park include The Dixie Sternwheeler tours and Ski Bee water ski performances.
Syracuse
Lakeside Park on Syracuse Lake offers a beach, open from 8 a.m. to dusk Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.
Amenities include an open-air pavilion, playground, beach volleyball and a swimming beach.
Hoy’s Beach, a small park on the Henry Street right of way to Syracuse Lake, offers trees and plants in decorative planting beds, picnic tables and benches. It is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Warsaw
Center Lake Beach, 119 E. Canal St., is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. May 1 to Sept. 30.
Amenities include picnic tables, lake access, restrooms and vending machines. Lifeguards are on duty from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday through Saturday; however, lifeguards are not on duty if the temperature is below 70 degrees.
Winona Lake
Limitless Park, 1590 Park Ave., offers a beach area, splash pad, tennis courts, playground, pavilions, and picnic tables. To stay up to date with Winona Lake Limitless Park, visit facebook.com/WinonaLakeLimitlessPark.
SANDY BEACH — The beach at Waubee Lake Park, Milford, is open
Photo by Phoebe Muthart.
Syracuse-Wawasee, North Webster trail projects push forward
Despite statewide budget cuts that could threaten future funding, trail development projects in both Syracuse-Wawasee and North Webster are steadily advancing with the help of local support and long-term vision.
In North Webster, a new bike trail is in its early stages following approval from the Indiana Department of Transportation, or INDOT. The first phase will run along the east side of SR 13 from the south end of town to the main stoplight, expanding the sidewalk into a safer, wider path for pedestrians and cyclists.
“The first thing that needs to be done is to survey everything, and once that’s finished, we’ll start construction,” said Dan Thystrup, North Webster Trails Director. “The funding for phase one is already in place — INDOT is covering 90%, and we’ve raised the remaining 10% locally through partners like K21, the Kosciusko County Community Foundation and others.”
A future phase of the project aims to extend the trail north toward Wawasee Middle School, where it would eventually connect with the Syracuse-Wawasee Trails system.
That system, already expansive, continues to grow under the leadership of Director Traci Ford. While current progress remains steady, Ford said future expansions could be slowed by the elimination of Indiana’s Next Level Trails program in the new state budget.
The nonprofit Syracuse-Wawasee Trails group depends heavily on state-level grants to fund expansions and new connections.
“Our vision of growth and connectivity is strongly supported locally and at the county level,” Ford said in a statement. “But state funding like NLT is critical. Without it, we’ll need to pivot
our strategy.”
Still, both communities remain optimistic. Thystrup emphasized growing local enthusiasm for cycling, including e-bikes, and said countywide efforts are underway to eventually link Warsaw, North Webster and Syracuse by trail.
“It makes our towns more livable and attractive,” Thystrup said. “That’s something worth investing in.”
MOVING FORWARD WITH TRAILS — Despite
moving ahead, with both sides remaining confident. Photo by Larry Baumgardt, Syracuse-Wawasee Trails.
left is the structure for fall while at the top of the photo is the building representing the winter solstice. Photo by Lauren Zeugner
Defries Garden is a hidden gem
Defries Garden, or the calendar garden for those in the know, is truly the hidden gem among Elkhart County parks. Located on CR 46, the garden is nestled within the River Preserve County Park in New Paris. It is the smallest of the Elkhart County parks.
This 13-acre garden was once a private homestead and features an 1880s Victorian style home surrounded by perennial gardens and woodland plantings.
Dr. John and Beth Defries purchased
well known in the community and was known as being one of the best doctors in the area.
When John Defries died, Beth Defries wanted to give back to the community. She donated her home and 13-acre property to the Elkhart County Parks Department and hired landscaper Jon Cutrell to create a calendar garden. Work began in 2003 and on the summer solstice, Beth Defries and Cutrell planted the first tree in the garden. Beth Defries worked on the gar-
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As a lake native herself, Paton Showley and her team’s love for the lake and lake communities is undeniable. Not only is their lake expertise extensive, their enthusiasm for the lakes area is unmatched. She was featured in HGTV’s “Lakefront Bargain Hunt” in 2017 and 2019 for homes on Lake Tippecanoe and Chapman Lake respectively.
For exceptional service, call the Deb Paton Showley Group today at (574) 527-6022 or visit debpatonshowleygroup.com. Office locations are 210 N. Buffalo St., Warsaw, and 703 N. Huntington St., Syracuse.
Shown from left are Linda Goshert, Brittney Niles, Katy Dilley and Paton Showley. Photo
COMING INTO BLOOM — The DeFries Garden, located on CR 46 in New Paris, features a look out point where visitors can take in the entire calendar garden. At the center is a pond which is home to turtles, frogs and goldfish. On the
PREPPING FOR A SHOW — A young 4-Her gives his pig a bath before a show during last year’s Kosciusko County Fair. This year’s fair will have something for everyone from 4-Her’s showing off their projects to free grandstand entertainment. Photo by Leah Sanders.
County fair returns in July
One of Kosciusko County’s longest running traditions, the Kosciusko County Community Fair returns in July in another fun-packed week.
All the sights, sounds and smells will return to the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds in Warsaw July 6-12.
This year marks the 107th year of the fair. This year’s theme will be “It’s 5 O’Clock Some Fair”
Opening ceremonies will be held Sunday, July 6, and there will be a parade.
The fair board has lined up the following nightly attractions:
• Monday, July 7, Motorized Rodeo featuring ATVs and UTVs.
• Tuesday, July 8, Extreme Monster Madness.
• Wednesday, July 9, Extreme Monster Madness.
• Thursday, July 10, KOI drag racing.
• Friday, July 11, T-N-T Demolition Derby.
• Saturday, July 12, truck and tractor pull.
The extreme monster truck madness shows will be different for Tuesday and Wednesday, July 8-9.
Admission tickets are $8 and may be purchased online at kcfair.com/tickets or at the gate. Senior tickets for those aged 65 are $3. Children ages 9 and under receive free admission. Sunday, July 6, will be free day at the fair.
The lunchtime special pass also re-
Defries Garden
Continued from page 10
den until her death in 2011.
The Defries property features several gardens throughout the year and features a four-season calendar garden. This oneacre showpiece is a giant circular garden and flowering calendar. Its design features the solstices and equinoxes with unique structures marking each. Native and horticultural plantings follow the seasons throughout the year. A 365-foot circular
2024 Kosciusko County Com munity Fair. This year’s fair will be held July 6-12. Photo by Liz Adkins.
turns. Visitors from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m may purchase the pass at the main gate ticket boot for a $5 deposit to enjoy lunch on the fairgrounds. Return the lunch pass by 2 p.m. for a full refund. Lunch pass tickets are not valid for same day reentry hand stamps.
The county fairgrounds are at 1400 E. Smith St., Warsaw.
Gates are open 9 a.m. daily.
Carnival hours are:
• No carnival hours Monday, July 7.
• 2-11 p.m. Tuesday, July 8.
• 3-11 p.m. Wednesday, July 9.
• 3-11 p.m. Thursday, July 10.
• 2-11 p.m. Friday, July 11.
• 1-11 p.m. Saturday, July 12.
path marks each day as it leads visitors through seasons of bloom.
Today the garden is a popular loca tion for wedding proposals, art classes and other events.
The gardens are located at 17477 CR 46 and are open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. January, February, November and December; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. March and October; 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. April and September; and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. May, June, July and August.
FUN AT THE FAIR — Hope Heart and Kirstin Forney enjoy ice cream together during the
STATE-OF-THE-ART WATER TREATMENT EQUIPMENT — Rabb Water has been serving north central Indiana since 1951. The family-owned company supplies customers, both residential and commercial, with advanced, state-of-the-art water treatment equipment. Many are unaware Rabb, as the area’s only authorized nonelectric Kinetico dealer, offers a wide variety of products from all the major manufacturers of water treatment equipment. Its purchase power as one of Indiana’s largest independent water companies allows management to offer products for any budget.
Rabb Water Systems’ main products include: water softeners, drinking water systems, sulfur removal, whole house filtration, bacteria treatment, ultraviolet, arsenic removal, saltfree systems, whole-house reverse osmosis, business/commercial large-scale softening, chemical injection, de-ionization, laboratory grade water and iron filtration.
Rabb Water Systems takes pride in its installation and service department, servicing all makes and models. The technicians are factory trained and certified through the Water Quality Association. It offers 24-hour emergency service and its goal is to earn the right to be recommended. Photo provided by Rabb Water Systems.
NOT AFRAID TO GET CORNY — This corn-themed float was a winner at last year’s Lake Tippecanoe Flotilla, taking first place for the “All Things Indiana” theme. This year’s theme is the 1987 comedy “Planes, Trains and Automobiles.” Photo provided by Lake Tippecanoe Property Owners.
Tippy Flotilla returns with ‘Planes,
Trains, and Automobiles’ theme
This year’s Lake Tippecanoe Flotilla theme is styling itself after “Planes, Trains and Automobiles,” the 1985 comedy directed by John Hughes, leaving plenty of opportunities for lake residents and other interested parties to get creative.
Pre-registration for the flotilla will be at the Lake Tippecanoe Property Owners fish and chicken fry at Camp Crosley, 675 EMS T2 Lane, North Webster, from 5-6:30 p.m. Saturday, June 21.
The next pre-registration opportunity will be the day of the flotilla, 10-11:30 a.m. at Patona Bay Snack Bar. Pre-registration is required to qualify for a cash award.
There will be five cash awards handed out after the flotilla: First place, $500;
second place, $400; third place, $300; fourth place, $200; and fifth place, $100.
All participants should meet lakeside in front of the Patona Bay Snack Bar at 12:30 p.m. The flotilla follows a designated route around the main basin of Lake Tippecanoe and takes about 90 minutes before returning to Patona Bay. Awards will be handed out from the judges’ pontoon.
Those participating in the flotilla should follow these rules:
• Follow the officers’ patrol boat. The officers are there for guidance and safety.
• It is prohibited to throw anything from a float, boat or shore.
• Do not jump in the lake from a float, boat or shore.
Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum —
Located in Syracuse, in the Syracuse Community Center across from Lakeside Park, the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum, has been offering a glimpse back in time for the Lakeland area since 1987.
A circa 1930s-era wooden lapstrake boat anchors the newly-created nautical section of the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical
Museum. Donated by Doug and Karen Grant of Lake Wawasee, the beautifully restored antique boat was awarded the Commodore’s Cup in the 1998 Wawasee Flotilla and won first place in the antique division at the White River Yacht Club boat show in the Indianapolis area that same year.
The museum envisions developing ex-
SHADES TO SHUTTERS — Shades to Shutters in Syracuse offers quality custom shades, shutters, blinds and plantation shades for your home or business. It also is now offering custom closet design and installation for your home, office or garage. Stop by its showroom at 1101 S. Huntington St., Syracuse, to see the closet designs and window treatments on display. Shades to Shutters can be reached at (574) 527-2403.
Pictured from left are Tom Williams, Steve Williams, Diane Williams and Carey Larson. Photo by Susan Stump.
hibits based around the boat, which will enable future generations to discover the rich nautical heritage of the Syracuse-Wawasee community.
The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. It offers a wide range of interesting events for community members to participate in, learn and enjoy. One of the events the museum has held for the past several years is the weekly camp, The Youth History Club, which meets in June and July for two sessions, June 10-13 and July 15-18. Both start at 1 p.m. at the museum. Registration is required.
The museum will be closed for July 4, but will be open to present two Centennial programs. The first is at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 12, and is “The History of the Spink Property.” The second is at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, and is “Centennial Homes Around Lake Wawasee and the Vawter Park area.”
The museum will host a historical cruise in partnership with Chautauqua-Wawasee. The cruise is at 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 2 on Lake Wawasee, and is called “Then and Now.” It departs from the Frog Tavern, Syracuse.
“Digging Through History” is 6:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11. It is “The Prehistory of Northern Indiana,” presented by Pat Mooney and Bryan Warder.
The next one is from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12, and is “The Life and Times of Five Medals,” presented by Mike Judson.
WOODEN BOAT — A circa 1930s-era wooden lapstrake boat anchors the newly-created nautical section of the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum. Donated by Doug and Karen Grant of Lake Wawasee, the beautifully restored antique boat was awarded the Commodore’s Cup in the 1998 Wawasee Flotilla and won first place in the antique division at the White River Yacht Club boat show in the Indianapolis area that same year.
The museum envisions developing exhibits based around the boat, which will enable future generations to discover the rich nautical heritage of the Syracuse-Wawasee community. Photo courtesy of the museum.
For more information, call Director Ali Schuldt at (574) 457-3599 or visit syracusemuseum.org or its Facebook page.
Kosciusko Jail Museum announces summer events highlighting women’s sports
The Kosciusko County Old Jail Museum will celebrate women’s sports this summer with a special event Saturday, June 28, honoring local female athletes past and present.
The event will begin at 10 a.m. with a keynote presentation by legendary sports broadcaster Rita Price. A reunion of the 1976 Warsaw High School girls’ basketball team, state champions that year, will be held. The program will also recognize this year’s Warsaw girls’ team, which finished as state runner-up, as well as other outstanding female athletes from around the county.
In addition to the presentation, the museum will host free outdoor demonstrations and displays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. showcasing sports such as pickleball, jiu-jitsu and dance. Activities for children, including dribbling drills and free-throw contests, will also be offered.
The summer celebration is part of the museum’s annual rotating theme, with this year dedicated to the impact of women in sports.
Later in the season, the museum’s popular Haunted Jail Tours will return, beginning the last Friday and Saturday of September. Paranormal tours are also available by appointment by contacting wiprs@hotmail.com.
The Old Kosciusko County Jail, located at 121 N. Indiana St. in Warsaw, houses the Kosciusko County Historical Society and Genealogy Library. The museum features rotating displays, a small gift shop, and offers free daytime tours. Summer hours are
SUMMER FUN
— Warsaw’s Old Jail Museum is celebrating summer and women’s sports with a free event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 28. The event will feature guest speaker Rita Price, a reunion of the 1976 Warsaw High School girls’ basketball team and a variety of sports events. Photo from Kosciusko County Historical Society.
Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Pound Store Museum, 2932 E. Armstrong Road in Leesburg will also be open 1-4 p.m. Sundays until the end of September.
The Kosciusko County Historical Society, founded in 1966, is a nonprofit organization focused on preserving and promoting the county’s history. The Old Jail Museum and Research Library are open to the public 24 hours per week from March through mid-December, with additional hours available by appointment. The society also hosts events throughout the year, including the Dillinger Raid reenactment, Oswego Trader Days and the Gingerbread Extravaganza
County’s trails offer something for everyone
Kosciusko County’s robust trail network continues to grow in both scale and significance, offering even more opportunities for cyclists, walkers and nature enthusiasts to navigate the area.
According to the latest figures from RideWalk.com, the combined communities of Winona Lake and Syracuse-Wawasee now boast more than 180 miles of bikeways, including 5.67 miles of greenways, 2.87 miles of bike lanes, 3.03 miles of sidepaths, 10.5 miles of mountain bike trails, and 2.68 miles of signed paths.
In Warsaw, the Lake City Greenway remains a central fixture of the county’s trail system. One of its highlights, the Beyer Farm Trail, stretches 1.2 miles from Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital to Pike Lake Park.
The boardwalk portion, approximately two-thirds of a mile long, guides users through wetlands.
Along the way, walkers can spot fixtures such as a life-sized faux bison and a rusted tractor, both of which have become informal mascots of the trail.
The trail connects directly to Pike
Lake campground, a family-friendly location equipped with a public beach, fishing piers, a playground and fire pits.
In Winona Lake, the Heritage Trail continues to offer more than three miles of walking and biking paths from Roy Street to Grace College’s historic Beta House.
Dotted along the trail are pieces selected by the Winona Lake Art Commission, part of the Heritage Trail Art Project.
Visitors can explore this wooded path year-round, taking in both public art and quiet stretches of forest.
Covering over 140 acres, the Winona Lake Trail System caters for local runners, hikers and mountain bikers. Its 10-plus miles of dirt paths wind through densely wooded areas and alongside lake views.
The trail is home to multiple annual events, including segments of the Optimist Triathlon and the Oktoberfest Trail Run, both of which saw record participation in 2024.
Plans are underway to improve trail signage and add more lighting to some of the more heavily trafficked areas, according to the Winona Lake Trails Committee.
The Syracuse-Wawasee Trail, which already connects much of Syracuse, Syracuse Lake and parts of Lake Wawasee, will grow by an additional 2.2 miles thanks to the Wawasee South Campaign.
The expansion connects Grand-
view Drive to Wawasee Middle School, improving access for students, cyclists and recreational users alike.
Existing segments such as the Eli Lilly Road Trail, Pickwick to Cornelius Road Trail, and the Syracuse Lake Loop continue to offer scenic routes around lakes, wetlands and town centers.
New interpretive signage will help visitors identify native plant species and bird life along the route.
One of the most unique areas of the trail, the Conklin Bay Boardwalk, opened in 2020. It features a third-mile stretch through the Rolland Wetland Conservation Area, complete with four elevated overlooks where visitors can pause and take in the wetland ecosystem.
Farther north, North Webster is advancing plans to build a new trail segment connecting the town center with Wawasee Middle School.
The rail will form a link between northern and southern parts of town and would be a part of broader plans to connect to the Syracuse-Wawasee system.
Kosciusko County’s trail network is not only extensive but also dynamic. Whether for fitness, transportation or simple nature walks, the county’s trails offer something for everyone.
For trail maps and updates on upcoming events, visit ridewalk.com or contact the Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
WINONA TRAILS This summer, Winona Lake Trails and many others all over Kosciusko County will offer a place for biking, jogging and even casual walks. Photo by Visit Kosciusko County.
Warsaw Biblical Gardens are thriving
Warsaw’s Biblical Gardens are a rare oasis, rich in beauty and tranquility.
The gardens have been planted with every effort made to achieve botanical and his-
torical accuracy. A references especially helpful in the planning of the garden was “Plants of the Bible” by F. Nigel Hepper. Each plant is labeled with a marker bearing its name.
The gardens, situated on approximately 3/4 acres, currently contain over 100 plants that are named in the Bible. A diversity of climates can be found in the Holy Land,
SHOTS
Golf and disc golf options fill the area
There are numerous golf courses in the Kosciusko County area open for business.
Cart rules vary from course to course which can be checked with the courses before play. McCormick Creek, 1300 N Oakland Ave., Nappanee, has various offers ranging from $12 to $48. Twilight specials are $30 Monday through Thursday and $35 on the weekend. Call the course at (574) 773-2725 for daily specials and tee time reservations.
Maxwelton Golf Club, 5721 E. Elkhart County Line Road, Syracuse, offers Monday through Thursday rates ranging from $20 to $54. Friday through Sunday rates range from $25 to $69. You can book your tee time at maxweltongolf.com/tee-times.
Located at 1700 Rosella Road in southwest Warsaw, Rosella Ford Golf Club asks golfers to call (574) 376-4160 for a reservation. The course offers five sets of tees for each of its 18 holes. The Rosella Ford Golf Club offers a $2 discount for those paying in cash.
Another golfing option in Warsaw is Stonehenge Golf Course, 2850 E. Pierceton Road. You can book your tee time and view their rates at teewire.net/stonehenge.
Tippecanoe Lake Country Club located at 7245 N. Kalorama Road, Leesburg, asks golfers to call (574) 453-4441 for more information.
Wawasee Golf Club, 7654 E. Eli Lilly Road, Syracuse, is an affordable ninehole course situated just yards away from Lake Wawasee and the Eli Lilly properties. Call (574) 457-0224 for course availability and rates.
There are a few free disc golf options courses available in Kosciusko County for the entire family to enjoy.
The Lodge has been and will continue to be excited to host disc golfers on its property in northeast Syracuse.
The 18-hole course is free to play and is located on the old Smith-Walbridge property adjacent to the Maxwelton Golf Club.
Disc golfers are to bring their own supplies as the Lodge does not rent or provide any discs or bags.
There is a portable restroom on site for disc golfers to use.
The Lodge, which is overseen by Grace Community Church, will host kids’ camps in the summer. In those weeks, the course will be red-flagged and unavailable. Otherwise, the course is open and good to go year-round.
Course status can be viewed on the The Lodges’ Facebook page.
Lucerne Park, located on Pike Lake in Warsaw has a free nine-hole disc golf course. The trees provide ample shade from the sun. Like the Lodge, Lucerne Park does not provide discs or bags. The Warsaw Parks Department website at warsaw.in.gov/192/ parks-recreation has scorecards and course layouts for use.
Another young disc golf course is at Grace College. Grace Disc Golf is open to the public and free to play. The first hole is located at on the lawn in front of Indiana Hall (the corner of Wooster Road and King’s Highway) on campus in Winona Lake.
which allows for most of its plants to be grown somewhere in the U.S. These gardens represent those plants hardy enough to the environs of the Midwest to survive here. Several tender plants that are grown in the gardens are wintered in greenhouses from October to April.
Guided tours are offered through Sept. 15. Call (574) 267-6218.
Gardens of Central Park
The Gardens of Central Park are located near the Biblical Gardens.
The park, near the southern shore of Center Lake, was completed in 1995. Local residents, Robert and Roma Maish, loved flowers and flower gardens and they had a vision; build a perennial garden that everyone could enjoy.
The 1/3 acre flower garden is located on the northeast corner of Central Park alongside North Detroit Street.
Each plant is planned and designed for each bed. The “beauty” of a perennial garden
Summer SSplash ummer Splash
PRACTICE
— Golfers at the Maxwelton Golf Club in Syracuse get ready for round of golf on the practice green. Photo by Nathan Pace.
Waubee Lake Association: preserving the lake for future generations
The Waubee Lake Association first convened Sept. 29, 1968, and its efforts to preserve the health of Waubee Lake continue to the present day.
WLA President Corey Thompson describes the members of the association as, “people who have a desire to leave a legacy of enhancing the lake and the people in the community.”
“We work together to create a community that is actively looking to enhance the lake, to leave it better than when we found it,” Thompson went on.
In service of this, WLA partners with other local organizations dedicated to preserving the county’s natural resources, including the Department of Natural Resources and the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams.
In March, WLA received a $4,000 Lake and River Enhancement grant from the DNR to develop an aquatic vegetation management plan.
WLA awarded the project to Aquatic Weed Control of Syracuse. The company will study the vegetation in the lake, both benign and harmful, and create a plan for how to manage the different types. Certain types of aquatic weed, such as starry stonewort, are a big concern for lake protective associations, as they can choke out fish and other plants.
“We’re very happy about it,” said Thompson of the LARE grant.
Last year, the Lilly Center also began sampling water from Waubee Lake, so the WLA will have more information on the water quality over this summer.
In the next year, WLA is looking to apply for a grant to create a sediment management plan as well. Thompson said there is a sediment concern in one area of the lake, so WLA is interested in getting someone to monitor sediment levels and create a plan of action to manage any problems.
Waubee Lake, which includes a
beach, park and boat access ramp, is enjoyed by both residents and visitors alike. The association is there to make sure people can keep up their lake activities for generations to come.
For the past three years, WLA has hosted a flotilla over Fourth of July weekend.
CRUISING THE WAVES — A boat rides across the surface of Waubee Lake. The Waubee Lake Association is dedicated to preserving the health of the lake so future generations may enjoy it. Photo by Lilli Dwyer.
CRUISING THE LAKE — This wooden boat cruises Lake Wawasee.
FIRING OFF THIS SUMMER Lake Wawasee and other lakes throughout Kosciusko County will celebrate the Fourth of July with a bang. Fireworks will be set off on Saturday, June 28; Friday, July 4; and Saturday, July 5. Photo by Wawasee Fireworks.
Kosciusko County fireworks schedule is announced
Kosciusko County residents and visitors will once again have a varied lineup of fireworks displays this summer as communities across the region prepare for Independence Day with music, festivities and pyrotechnic shows.
The annual festivities begin Saturday, 8 p.m. June 28, with the Salute to America celebration at Winona Lake Park, featuring a free outdoor concert by the Wagon Wheel Symphony of the Lakes.
Sponsored by the Kosciusko County Community Foundation and Grace College, the event culminates in a fireworks display at 10 p.m., all set near the Miller Sunset Pavilion. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets.
Fourth of July Celebrations
On Friday, July 4, fireworks displays are planned at:
• Barbee Lakes, launching from Sechrist Lake at 10:15 p.m.
• Syracuse Lake, with fireworks scheduled between 10 p.m. and 11 p.m.
Saturday, July 5, marks the county’s busiest night for fireworks, with displays scheduled at the following locations:
• North Webster — Fireworks begin at 10 p.m. at Webster Lake, viewable from North Webster Town Park, 401 S. Dixie Drive. Rain date is July 12.
• Lake Wawasee — The show begins at 10:15 p.m., launched from barges on
Waubee Flotilla celebrates 4th of July with patriotic theme
The Waubee Lake Flotilla will take place at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 5. The theme this year is “patriotic,” meaning there will be plenty of red, white and blue out on the water this Fourth of
the lake.
Music will be synchronized with Willie 103.5 FM. Organizers recently signed a multi-year agreement with Zambelli Fireworks and are seeking donations to offset rising costs and replace aging barges. More information is available at wawaseefireworks.com.
• Lake Tippecanoe — Fireworks begin at 10:30 p.m., viewable from the lawn of the Tippy Dance Hall on the lake’s south shore. Additional information is available at ltpo.org.
• Webster Lake — A second show organized by the Webster Lake Conservation Association begins at 10 p.m. and is funded entirely by local donations. Rain date is Saturday, July 12.
• Leesburg — A fireworks display is planned for the evening, though time and location have not been specified.
• Dewart Lake — Fireworks begin at 10 p.m.
• Chapman Lake, Warsaw — Show starts at 10 p.m., with a rain date scheduled for Sunday, July 6.
Many events encourage attendees to bring their own seating and arrive early, as lakeside viewing areas are expected to fill quickly.
For further details or updates, residents can check local community websites or follow event organizers on social media.
July weekend.
Participants will line up at the boat launch and proceed east along the lake’s north shore. No pre-registration is required to participate.
FLOAT ON — Leon Newman won the first ever Waubee Lake Flotilla in 2023 with his patriotic float. This year’s theme will continue the trend. Photo by Lauren Zeugner.
THREE GENERATIONS AT HELM OF WAWASEE BOAT COMPANY — The Anderson family has been serving their customers for over 48 years and will continue to provide their past, present and future customers with the same customer care they have grown accustomed to for many years to come.
Pictured inside the 2025 Nautique are the three generations of the Anderson family who own Wawasee Boat Company: Russell Anderson, (wife Mary, not shown) David Anderson and Doug Anderson, (wife, Carolyn, not shown). Pictured from left standing in front of the boat are Andy Wysong, general manager, who has been with the boat company for over 43 years; Logan Haessig, sales and lifelong Wawasee resident; and Dave Haessig, service manager, who has been with the boat company for over 23 years. Photo by Susan Stump.
Services will be held on the lake in front of Oakwood Inn & Resort. Come by boat or sit on shore.
Seating is also available on the Frog’s SS Lilly Pad at no charge.
Memorial Day (May 30th) to Labor Day (Sept 5th) - Sundays 8:30-9:00 www.wawaseecompass.org
Services will be held on the lake in front of Oakwood Inn & Resort.
Services will be held on the lake in front of Oakwood Inn & Resort. Come by boat or sit on shore. Seating is also available on the Frog’s SS Lilly Pad at no charge.
Memorial Day (May 30th) to Labor Day (Sept 5th) - Sundays 8:30-9:00 www.wawaseecompass.org
BOAT-IN WORSHIP — Celebrating the 55th year of serving the spiritual needs of the communities, boat-in worship takes place in front of Oakwood Resort from 8:30-9 a.m. every Sunday, Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends.
Suitable attire will consist of whatever you wish to wear, from a coat and tie to a bathing suit. Each Sunday there are some of the best musical groups along with a short sermon and prayers. Boat-in worship is brought to you by the Syracuse-Wawasee Ministerial Association. Come by boat or on shore at Oakwood. Seating is also available on the Frog’s S.S. Lilypad. Photo provided by Harlan Steffen.
GREAT PRODUCTS FOR OUTDOOR FUN — Locally owned in North Webster since 2017, Pedals and Paddles specializes in an array of products, ranging from watersports and cycling to disc golf and pickleball gear. Pedals and Paddles has everything you need for watersports, including water skis, tubes, wakeboards, wakesurf, wakefoil, kneeboards, foam mats, life jackets, ropes, beach anchors, swimwear, wet suits and much more. It also had NCGA ski vests, pool floats and O’Neill surf apparel.
Pedals and Paddles carries a wide variety of kayaks, canoes and paddleboards, including accessories. Not ready to buy? Pedals and Paddles offers affordable rental of kayaks, paddleboards and bikes and also has basketball, volleyball and soccer products.
Whether you are seeking thrilling adventures on the water, exploring your favorite bike trail or playing outdoor sports, Pedals and Paddles is your source for outdoor fun in the northern Indiana lakes region.
Pictured from left are Steve Huffman, owner; James Lashbrook, inventory manager; Hannah Robison, sales associate; and Barbara Huffman, bookkeeping. Photo by Susan Stump.
Dewart Lake Flotilla a carnival on the water
This year’s Dewart Lake Association Flotilla will take place at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 5. This year’s parade of boats around the lake will be carnival-themed.
No pre-registration is required and anyone is welcome to participate or attend.
Participants should line up at Dewart Lake’s public access ramp, EMS D24 Lane, prior to the start of the flotilla. First, second and third place recognition will be awarded to the best-decorated floats.
AHOY THERE — At last year’s Dewart Lake flotilla, the Golden family took first place for the “Heroes The Make The 4th Happen.” This year’s boats will be decorated to fit a carnival theme. File photo.
WAWASEE AREA CONSERVANCY FOUNDATION — Come join the summer activities at Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation. Elementary and preschool kids will have fun with their adults during Wetland Adventures Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to noon in June. Or how about the annual bug catch (shown in the picture) from 9-11 a.m. July 5. Catch and learn what little water critters can tell us about water health. Adults will love Lake Talk and Eats programs June 7 and Aug. 2, as well as Trivia Night June 19. Save these dates and come have fun, while learning about the watershed. See you at WACF. Pictured from left are Pam Schumm, Kipton Stetz, Rhys Berg and Eathan Stetz. Photo provided by WACF.
LIGONIER CENTER — The Ligonier Visitor Center and Heritage Station Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday to Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May through Oct. 31. It’s also open during the Marshmallow Festival Labor Day weekend, with limited hours. Photo provided by The Ligonier Visitor Center.
History comes alive in Ligonier
The Ligonier Visitor’s Center, housed in a 1920s filling station, is located on the corner of Lincolnway South and West Union Street.
Inside the center is the Heritage Station Museum, which has a collection of various artifacts from Ligonier’s storied history, including a restored original Mier carriage, which was built in Ligonier. There are also several antique radios, telegraphs, microphones and the first all-transistor radio dating from 1898 to 1954.
Heritage Station Museum is located at 800 Lincolnway St., Ligonier. Hours
Our goal is to protect, preserve and enhance the Wawasee Area Watershed for present and future generations.
Wetland Adventures are special programs for kids accompanied by a parent or adult. Each day will focus on different aspects of the wetlands and our watershed with crafts, special activities and a canoe scavenger hunt. No registration is necessary but bring a life jacket and an adult!
Canoe Trips — Fridays in June, July and August (weather permitting).
Take a guided canoe trip down the upper watershed of Lake Wawasee. This is a first-class wetlands education. While canoeing you will see the spring fed lakes and wetlands that provide us with good water. You will see varying flora and fauna and miles of shoreline protected by WACF. Each trip is different, starting at 7:00 am and finishing about noon.
*Advanced registration is required online at www.wacf.com education tab.
Lake Talk & Eats is held on the first Saturday of June, July and August. Join us at the Ruddell Pavilion for informal demonstrations, hands on activities and ways to help protect our lakes and watershed. This year June 7 is Native Plants Talk & Sale, July 5 is the Annual Bug Catch and August 2 is the Ecology Pontoon Cruise. The cruise will require registration and a ticket. Go to www.wacf.com for more information.
may vary.
Stone’s Trace is located 5111 Lincoln Way South, Ligonier, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Call (260) 8949000 or visit visitnoblecounty.org.
It is the home of the Stone’s Tavern Inn National Historic Site and the annual Stone’s Trace Festival of early American settlers and pioneer life and crafts. It is also home to Stone’s Trace Regulators and Midwest Muzzle Loading, black-powder shooting events, and the annual Stone’s Trace Regulators’ Rendezvous and Primitive Camp. Continued on page 25
Save The Dates
June 3, 10, 17 & 24 — Wetland Adventure | 10am-NOON
Each day is different! Kids bring a parent for fun learning about water quality and nature. Canoe activity optional.FREE June 7 — Lake Talk and Eats | 9am-11am
The DIRT on DIRT plus native plants for sale.
June 19 — Trivia FUNdraiser | 7am-10am
Reserve your table by emailing emily@wacf.com. Fun water questions as well as general questions brought to you by Tony the Tiger Trivia!
July 2 — Fish with the DNR at Between the Lakes - Bring the kids. The DNR provides poles and bait. Come see the great variety of fish and learn how to identify them.
July 5 — Lake Talk & Eats Annual Bug Catch | 9am-11am
Learn what critters can tell us about water quality. Net and identify critters at the lakeshore. Dress to get wet! Life jackets and water shoes are recommended!
July 26 — Annual WACF Summer Breakfast | 9am at Between the Lakes
July 30 & August 9 — Farm tour at Anderson Farms to learn how farming practices influence water quality. Register at wacf.com
August 2 — Ecology Pontoon Cruise | 7pm depart from WACF pier
Hands on water testing, plant ID and learn about our projects. Limited to the first 50 people. $15 per person. Bring your own drinks, snacks will be provided. Email emily@wacf.com to register. All located at WACF, 11586 SR 13 in Syracuse, unless otherwise noted.
June 27, July 11, 18, 25, August 1 & 8 — Canoe Trips
Get up close and personal with the flora and fauna along the headwater lakes of the Wawasee watershed. A must do activity to understand the continental divide and the Wawasee watershed. Register at wacf.com
Family Friendly events at 11586 SR 13 in Syracuse unless otherwise noted.
Stay in shape with summer road races
Summer heat will not keep away the busy road races in several Kosciusko County communities over the next several weekends. A host of road races and triathlons will be held this summer in the area featuring Syracuse, Winona Lake, North Webster and Milford.
Below is a list of races and website links for registration information.
• The Blackburn Run 4 Others is 9 a.m. Saturday, June 14 at Winona Lake. For more information, visit runsignup.com/Race/IN/ WinonaLake/BlackburnRun4Others.
• The Eco Dash is part of the first Food Truck Friday in Milford at 7 p.m. Friday, June 13. For more information and how to register visit milfordfoodbank.org/ecodash.
• The Optimist Triathlon is set for 7 a.m. Saturday, June 21 at Winona Lake. For more information visit warsawoptimist.org/ shop/triathlon.
• The Firecracker 5K, also in Winona Lake, is at 9 a.m. Saturday, June 28. For more information visit runsignup.com/Race/ IN/WinonaLake/myteamtriumph5k.
• Wawasee Flotilla Road Race in Syracuse is at 8 a.m. Friday, July 4. For more information visit wawaseeflotilla.com.
• The Wawasee Kiwanis Sprint Triathlon in Syracuse will begin at 8 a.m. Saturday, July 26. For more information visit active.com/syracuse-in/running/ distance-running-races/wawasee-kiwanis-2025.
• The Popeye and Olive Oil 5K road
Keep the lakes safe by boating safely
Deputies with the lake patrol division provide seasonal coverage to guests and residents on Lake Wawasee, Syracuse Lake, Tippecanoe Lake and James Lake.
Deputies assist in a variety of things, including calls of distress, stranded boaters and even water rescues.
race returns to Dixie Day in North Webster on Saturday, July 26. Proceeds go to the North Webster food pantry. For more information visit runsignup.com/Race/IN/NorthWebster/PopeyeAndOliveOilS5K.
The lake patrols are funded through state and federal grants, but the corresponding property owners associations are responsible for purchasing the boat, as well as any maintenance or fuel needed for the watercraft.
The focus of the lake patrol division is boater education and safety and then enforcing the boater laws. Lake patrol deputies would rather have a conversation with
those on the lake and explain the rules and laws, than write citations. Lake patrol deputies receive an orientation course, annual training and work closely with the Department of Natural Resources.
To prevent serious injuries or even death, boating safety and abiding by the rules of the water is very important.
According to the Wawasee Property Owners Association, all motorboat operators in Indiana must have a valid drivers license to operate on all public waters. People less than 15 years old shall not operator a personal watercraft.
Boats less than 16 feet long, and a canoe or kayak of any length must have Continued on page 25
FIRST RACE — Jacquelyn Roberts ran her first ever Wawasee Flotilla Road Race in 2024. Photo by Nathan Pace.
LAKE PATROL — Lake patrols run from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The purpose of the lake patrols is to help boaters in distress and promote boater education and safety. Photo provided by Kosciusko County Sheriffs Office.
Warsaw gears up for summer with Third Friday events
The city of Warsaw is set to launch a season of summer community with its Third Friday series, bringing themed events, live entertainment and local flavor to the downtown courthouse square from June through September.
Running from 5 to 9 p.m. on the third Friday of each month, the summer lineup kicks off June 20 with a Summer Kick-Off Party. The event will feature music, activities for all ages and local vendors celebrating the start of the season.
In July, Third Friday aligns with the Parks Department’s country concert, offering a Barbecue Night collaboration on July 18. Attendees can expect classic summer eats and live country music in a festive, family-friendly setting.
Car lovers will flock downtown on Aug. 15 for the Cabor Cruise In Car Show, sponsored by the Kosciusko Board of Realtors. The streets around the courthouse will be lined with classic and custom cars, offering a nostalgic evening of chrome, horsepower and community connection.
The series wraps up on Sept. 19 with Taste of Kosciusko, a culinary celebration showcasing local restaurants and food trucks. Attendees will have the chance to sample a variety of dishes with a side of live performances and local artisan vendors.
The Third Friday events aim to highlight the vibrant downtown and bring res-
Keep the lakes
Continued from page 24
onboard a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices for everyone onboard plus at least one throwable personal flotation device.
Reckless operation of a boat — when a boat is operated carelessly in willful disregard of the rights, safety or property of others — is a crime in Indiana. Examples of reckless operation include, but are not limited to: excessive speed in regulated or congested areas, or during times of restricted visibility; operating in a manner that may cause an accident; operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs; and operating a personal watercraft which en-
idents and visitors together for evenings of free, accessible entertainment. Each event is organized by the City of Warsaw in partnership with local sponsors and businesses.
More information and updates can be found on Main Street Warsaw’s official website at warsawcdc.org and social media pages.
dangers life or property.
When operating a personal watercraft, do not: weave through congested traffic; follow a watercraft towing other individuals; jump the wake of another watercraft; cut between a boat and an individual being towed; cross paths with another watercraft when vision is obstructed; or street toward an object or person in the water and turn sharply at close range.
Follow the rules of the water and make summer memories lasting a lifetime.
To find out more information about lake patrol, contact your property owners association or the Kosciusko County Sheriffs Office at (574) 267-5667.
History comes
Continued from page 23
It will have a “Breakfast at the Trace” 7-10 a.m. Saturday, June 14. Drinks will be available and there is a cost.
For more information, visit stonestrace.com.
The Ligonier Marshmallow Festival is Labor Day weekend. Visit facebook. com/LigonierMarshmallowFestival.
MAKING SUMMER AN EVENT — On the third Friday of each month, the city of Warsaw celebrates the summer with a different themed festival downtown in its “Third Fridays” series. Photo by Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce.
Churches offer area boat-in services
From Memorial Day to Labor Day, worship is offered on water on three lakes in Kosciusko County: Dewart Lake, Tippecanoe Lake, and Lake Wawasee Wawasee.
Dewart Lake
Dewart Lake Community Friends Church conducts services at 8:30 a.m. Sundays.
From Memorial Day to Labor Day, people are invited to listen to talented musicians and the good news of Jesus on a boat, kayak, or on the shore of Dewart Lake at Quaker Haven. If attending on the shoreline, it’s recommended to bring a blanket or chair. Guest musicians will join Pastor Jesse Vore every Sunday to help lead worship.
In inclement weather, the boat-in service will be held in the church, also known as Quaker Haven Chapel.
For more information, call (574) 5290687 or visit dewartlakefriendschurch. org/boat-in or its Facebook page.
Lake Wawasee
The Syracuse-Wawasee Ministerial Association sponsors a boat-in service on Lake Wawasee, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Climb aboard the SS Lilly Pad behind the Frog Tavern by 7:30 a.m., pull up a chair in front of Oakwood Resort to attend by shore, or anchor alongside with your own boat.
This one-of-a-kind, half-hour service praises God with special music and a de-
Hungry Yet?
votion designed to kick your week off on the right foot.
This year’s theme is “Growing Our Faith by the Water.” The first service is from 8:30-9 a.m. Sunday, May 25.
For more information, visit wawaseecompass.org/#boat-in.
Tippecanoe Lake
From Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend, Leesburg United Methodist Church hosts a Sunday service at Patona Bay at 8:30 a.m. Guests may worship by land or water.
Each week, it will have a new guest musician and Pastor Rob Seewald shares a message.
If you plan to attend by land, it recommends bringing a chair. For more information, visit myleesburgmethodist. com/summer-worship.
North Webster
A lakeside worship service on Webster Lake will be conducted by the North Webster United Methodist Church at 8 a.m. Sundays, from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends.
WORSHIP ON WATER — Four local churches offer boat-in worship from Memorial Day to Labor Day on three lakes. Photo provided by Wawasee Compass.
JETTING AROUND THE LAKE — These two enjoy jetting around the lake on a personal watercraft.
Mudtastic Classic back for year 11
The 11th annual Mudtastic Classic will soon be making its summer splash in Syracuse. Presented by the Syracuse Parks and Recreation Department, the 2025 iteration of the Mudtastic Classic is scheduled for Saturday, June 21.
The event will run on the trails near the Levinson-LaBrosse Lakes and Wetlands Education Center located on SR 13, one mile south of Syracuse.The event features several fun and challenging obstacles along the trails near Lake Wawasee. Both adults and kids ages 7-14 will have the opportunity to participate in teams or as individuals for a registration fee of $25. The youth participants do have the option of stopping after one mile on the 2.25 mile course. A nominal service fee will be charged to those registering online. Participants must register by Friday, June 6 to receive a T-shirt as there will be no guarantee of size or availability after this date.
The event will take place rain or shine.
In the circumstance of severe weather the Mudtastic Classic will be rescheduled to Sunday, June 22. Proceeds raised from the event will support the Syracuse Parks Department.
The number of runners participating typically ranges from 200-250 each year. Competitors will get muddy as over 1,000 gallons of water are used to create muddy obstacles. The event can have up to 15 obstacles each year for participants to get past. Participants will have the choice to complete or bypass any obstacle. This is not a race as the objective is to have fun and get dirty.
Participants depart in waves starting at 9 a.m. Parking will be available at designated spots near the education center and on the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation property near SR 13. The Syracuse Parks Department will update any changes needed for the race. For more information, contact the Syracuse Parks Department at (574) 457-3440.
and
Don’t forget about their bloody Mary buffet every Sunday starting at 11 a.m. Thursday is always 1/2 pound build-a-burger day. Photo provided by Chubbie’s.
AFTER THE MUD — Julieta Walton Clark, left, Jacob Walton-Clark and Marcus Castaneda cross the finish line at the Mudtastic Classic in 2024. Photo by Nathan Pace.
