A REAL CHARACTER Behind the intimidating mask of his character, Malfesto, Isaiah White is all smiles.
THE PINK PALADIN Erica Warren, also known as the Pink Paladin, shows off her personal sword and shield. Warren has been an Amtgard LARPer for two decades, enjoying both the fun of the games and the connections she makes with other players.
THE WAY OF THE SWORD Erin McBride, left, gets training in foam sword combat from Fae Lake monarch Andrew Martin, player name Kalahan Ridgeborn. Fae Lake is a live-action roleplaying group that meets Saturdays in Warsaw’s Central Park.
WARRIORS IN TRAINING Rowan Wilson, left, and David Martin clash on the battlefield.
K now Y our n eighbor
Eric Hartman is the new CEO of New Paris Telephone Company
By LAURIE LECHLITNER Staff Writer
“I love to recount the history of the New Paris Telephone Company,” stated Eric Hartman, “how a group of farmers came together 125 years ago to create a community where they could communicate outside of their own fences and farms. And through the years, NPTC has continued to grow and thrive. Now we are able to provide faster fiber Internet services and technology services in our rural communities.
“We have all the technological advantages of those in the big cities.”
Hartman is the new CEO of the company.
Hartman has loved technology since introduced to it at Lakeland High School.
“I remember Windows 95 very well. That was the program that launched the modern era. Everyone began using computers with dial-up internet,” he said.
He went on to get a degree in computer information systems at Trine University, Angola.
“I’ve been affiliated with NPTC for 26 years. After college at Trine University, I began as a data tech at INdigital 911. I moved into various management positions. I approached the NPTC board about taking over for Mark Grady as he retired this year.”
He continued, “I’ve started
the transition by getting to know my new co-workers and working with them on some of the challenges we face,” he said. “We have complicated services such as cable TV, fiber internet, IT services and, of course, the telephone services.”
Hartman is working hard to see that these teams have a supportive work environment.
“Like my predecessor before me, I want our teams to focus on the customers. I support the teams and they support our customers. I maintain an opendoor policy. I’m available for any questions or concerns that come up.”
He also wants his teams to focus on becoming better known in the Elkhart and Kosciusko communities.
“We need to get the message out about all the things we’re capable of doing. We have fierce competition, including some Fortune 500 companies. We enlist local support to communicate that we’re here and ready to serve the community and beyond.”
When he is looking for people to join one of his teams, he has three areas he focuses on: 1. Community service and outreach. 2. Customer service. 3. Technical background.
“Is the applicant willing to do a good job in the community? Will they see that our customers are informed about our services? Do they have a passion
Arts in the Parks program to offer free crafts, snacks
Nappanee Parks and Recreation will offer free weekday arts activities for children this summer through its “Arts in the Parks” program.
The program will run weekdays noon-1 p.m. Monday, June 8 through Friday, Aug. 7 and is open to students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Activities will rotate among several
city parks, including West Park, Recovery Park, South Park and Stauffer Park.
Children attending the sessions will receive free snacks and participate in craft activities while supplies last. No registration is required.
The program is sponsored by The Center and Nappanee Parks.
for technologies?” he said.
Hartman and his wife Laura have two children: Gabrielle, 21, who is a junior at Purdue and Ryan, who is a senior at Lakeland High School. They live in the LaGrange area.
“My hobbies have always included technology and computers,” Hartman said. “I tinker, and love to learn. I also enjoy golfing and spending time with the family, usually near a barbecue.”
His last job connected with NPTC was with INdigital 911.
Hartman loves the town of New Paris.
“As we continue to build our fiber optic internet in the area, we need to do it the right way, in partnership with our customers,” he said.
“I worked out of Fort Wayne. We had a lot of success with that company that serviced areas all over the country.”
Milford Cemetery volunteer cleanup day is May 19
The Milford Cemetery Association is a nonprofit cemetery association with a board of directors who are tasked with the operation and maintenance of the Milford Cemetery. The cemetery does not receive
any tax dollars for maintenance
It has been a tradition for many years to have a community volunteer day to spruce up the cemetery before Memorial Day Weekend.
On Tuesday, May 19, the ceme-
tery board is asking for volunteers to help trim the grass around the headstones and to blow the grass clippings off the foundations. Come whenever you can during the day.
The Ancil Geiger American Legion takes care of placing flags on veterans’ gravesites and the Milford Volunteer Fire Department does the same for volunteer firemen.
Early deadline
The Kosciusko edition of ‘the PAPER’ will observe an early deadline for the issue of May 27.
All news copy, display advertising and classified advertising must be in the Warsaw, Syracuse or Milford office by 1 p.m. Friday, May 22. All offices of The Papers will be closed Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day. The Warsaw and Milford office will reopen Tuesday, May 26.
125 YEARS OF SERVICE Eric Hartman stands beside the banner that commemorates New Paris Telephone Company’s 125th anniversary. Hartman is the new CEO of the company. Photo provided by NPTC.
CLEAN UP TIME Milford Cemetery Association is seeking volunteers to help with cleanup Tuesday, May 19. Photo by Keith Knepp.
Players live their own adventure at FAE LAKE
Text and Photos By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer
“I imagine that every child, at some point, finds a stick and says, ‘This is a sword,’” said Andrew Martin. “I just never stopped finding sticks that I thought should be swords.”
Martin, player name Kalahan Ridgeborn, is the monarch of Fae Lake, a live action roleplaying group that started up in Warsaw in April.
Live action roleplaying, or LARP, is an outgrowth of tabletop
adventure games like “Dungeons & Dragons.” The main difference is that through LARP, people physically play as a character and use props to signify casting a spell or fighting with a sword.
“If you can get past the artificial construct of, ‘This is a bunch of adults playing pretend,’ you can have the most fun you’ve had in your entire life,” said Martin, who has been LARPing since 2017.
Fae Lake is one chapter of Amtgard, a medieval fantasy-based roleplaying organization with groups all over the country. War-
saw previously had a chapter that disbanded during COVID.
There are other Amtgard chapters in Mishawaka, Kokomo and Valparaiso, but Martin and his fellow LARPers were interested in getting a chapter started back up closer to home.
“We think that the town can support a really healthy chapter ... we decided to roll with it, and we’re seeing some results already,” he said.
Martin describes the Fae Lake LARP experience as “half sport, half fantasy game - like an adult kickball league, but if we gave the
KYLA grads show off projects at banquet
By MAKSYM HART Staff Writer
Two student groups presented their Project Proud initiatives during the 33rd annual Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy graduation banquet Wednesday, May 6, at The Owl’s Nest in North Webster.
Speaking on behalf of the KYLA board, Carl Lauster said this year’s class completed 10 community service projects, bringing the program’s overall total to more than 260 projects completed by approximately 830 alumni over the academy’s 33year history.
“Each student was required to develop a community service project and take it from concept to completion,” Lauster said during opening remarks. “You made a decision to be part of something that was bigger than yourself.”
The Common Grounds Initiative, led by Presley Andrews, Gibsen Claxton, Savannah Purdy and Olivia Rooney, partnered with Fellowship Missions to provide coffee and coffee supplies for guests at the homeless shelter. The students organized fundraisers and secured donations from businesses including Starbucks, Generous Coffee, Main Street Coffee House and the Milford Food Bank.
Students said Fellowship Missions uses between 15 and 20 pots of coffee daily and noted coffee often helps foster conversation and recovery support among guests. The project ultimately secured several months’ worth of coffee supplies, with additional long-term donations pledged by local businesses.
Another featured project, Heart and Sole, focused on providing shoes for children in need throughout the community. Team members Eduardo Sanchez-Brito,
Michael Schenck, Sean Smith, Chris Stenoish and Grayson Waldo organized shoe drives at Eisenhower and Jefferson elementary schools and worked with local businesses and nonprofit organizations to raise funds and collect footwear.
Other projects included:
• Wags & Whiskers - This group set up multiple bins around the community to collect needed items such as collars, leashes, dog and cat toys, treats and pet food for the Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County.
• The Belonging Box Project
- Collected toys, books and blankets as well as monetary donations that were used to purchase items for children in foster care.
• Tiny Treasurers - This group organized a fundraiser event to raise funds and collect baby items for Heartline Pregnancy Center.
• Paws & Presence - Delysia Walters partnered with the Animal Welfare League to take dogs from the shelter to visit residents at an area nursing home.
• United by Love - This group collected donations of stuffed animals and books that were given to children in the community, as well as to Beaman Home and the BABE store.
• Earth Care Coalition - This group made dog treats and volunteered numerous hours at AWL.
• Lake Conservation - volunteered their time as well as organized other groups to walk the trails near Lake Wawasee and Syracuse Lake and pick up trash.
Lauster told students leadership was “about influence, integrity and impact,” adding that the projects completed this year “made an impact” and “helped better people’s lives.”
Free Community Dinner in Pierceton
The next Free Community Dinner in Pierceton will be held Thursday, May 21.
The drive-thru dinner will start at 5 p.m. in the parking lot of St. Francis Xavier Parish, 408 W. Catholic St., Pierceton.
“We will continue this dinner as a drive thru only,” the committee that organizes the Free Community Dinners wrote in a news release. “We have been very
successful with these meals and feel that folks would just as soon take a boxed dinner home for the whole family.”
On the menu will be Spanish hot dogs, a vegetable medley, chips, fruit cup and cookies, all organized in a carryout container.
The food is free, but donations will be accepted to purchase items for he next meal, which will be held in July.
people playing kickball swords.”
The swords Fae Lake players fight with are foam. While there is a variety of LARP styles, including some with elaborate armor and blunted steel swords, Martin said the focus of Fae Lake is on safety and fun rather than realism.
During a typical play session, there are several rounds of battle games, including class-based combat. There are 12 Amtgard classes, each with a different set of abilities. Wizards, for instance, can use spells but not great weapons.
Players wear sashes to designate what they are playing that day. Fae Lake provides loaner weapons, shields and sashes for beginners, while the more seasoned players bring their own. Erica Warren, who has been LARPing for over 20 years as “The Pink Paladin,” has her own pink foam sword with a knitted cover.
“It’s the people that keep me coming back,” Warren said. “Without (Amtgard) I’d be sitting at home.”
Another Amtgard staple is quests, or story-based games. Players split up into parties and are presented with a scenario to play through, such as encountering a camp full of bandits. How they handle it is up to their imaginations.
“You can use diplomacy, or there are people who try to sneak around and get the drop on them,” said Martin.
The goal now is to play a quest every month, though frequency
will depend on the number of players and where their interests lie, he added. Fae Lake is always open to new players, including those who have never LARPed in their lives.
At Fae Lake’s first recruitment event April 25, a variety of new players, ages 5 to 40, were ready to get out on the battlefield.
“All you need is a good pair of shoes you can fight in, and the gumption to show up. ... It doesn’t cost anything but time,” said Martin. “You’re welcome to spectate and sit on the sidelines. If you try it, there’s no problem with deciding it wasn’t for you.”
Martin sees LARPing as a positive influence for many players.
“I love the community of Amtgard,” he explained. “It gives me an outlet for the eccentric part of myself. ... You set aside the mundane and come out the fantastic.”
It also serves as a bonding activity for him and his two young sons, who often play as well.
”It’s like any other sport, really. It’s good for your body, good for your mind, good for your soul,” he concluded.
Games take place at 12:30 p.m. Saturdays in Central Park, 225 E. Fort Wayne St., Warsaw. Fae Lake also offers a “digital park” through Discord for rainy days, available to players who have attended in-person.
To learn more about Fae Lake and see upcoming park dates, visit “Fae Lake - Amtgard LARP of Warsaw Indiana” on Facebook. To learn more about Amtgard, visit amtgard.com.
Good Neighbors is a column in which readers share friendly advice. To ask or answer questions, write the ‘the PAPER’, Good Neighbors, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542; fax 800-886-3796; or e-mail abias@the-papers.com. Please no phone calls.
Editor’s Note: The Good Neighbors column is for people looking for hard-to-find or old items or for people seeking advice, not for items you can find in a local store or sell through the help of a classified ad. This column will now run every other week.
Miscellaneous fabric
Good neighbors: I have boxes of miscellaneous fabric for crafts, comforters, etc. Call (574) 536-8728 Monday through Saturday.
China
Good neighbors: To the person looking for china, I have a 12- to 16-piece silver-rimmed place setting. If interested, please call (574) 527-7499 and leave a message.
To the person looking for china with pink roses, I have a set of 12, plus many miscellaneous pieces, of Japanese china with pink roses and a gold rim. If it’s not too late, call me at (574) 457-7148. I will send a picture, or you can come see it in Syracuse.
I have a china set with pink roses and a gold rim. It’s beautiful. If interested, email patpaul@rtcol.com.
Lawn mower repair
Good neighbors: Josh Flenar Small Engine Repair in Leesburg has pick-up and delivery. Many years of experience. The best in the area. Call (574) 453-1840.
Egg cartons
Good neighbors: We would be happy to have
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
‘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
Advertising Representative, Susan Stump sstump@the-papers.com
Circulation Manager, Jerry Long jlong@the-papers.com
Commercial Printing Sales Representative
Rodger Salinas rsalinas@the-papers.com
Commercial Printing Customer Service
Katie Hurley khurley@the-papers.com
Rich Krygowski rkrygowski@the-papers.com
COMING TO YOU
Mobile mammograms and lung cancer screenings will be available to area residents May 14 in Mentone. Photo provided by Live Well Kosciusko.
your unwanted egg cartons. Drop off at Arthur Martin, 66233 CR 7, Wakarusa.
New questions
American Girl catalogs — Would anyone have back issues of the American Girl catalogs? I would love to have them. Call (574) 747-7875 and leave a message. — Lorraine
Spanish teacher — Looking for a retired Spanish teacher, or one who is not retired, to teach the language in my home. I would compensate you for time and lessons. Millersburg area. Reply through this column. — A reader
Flour mill — I am looking for a working electric flour mill that you no longer use or want. Call (260) 437-9994.
Egg cartons — Wanted: Clean egg cartons in the Wakarusa/Nappanee area. Call (574) 633-4872.
Reclining shower chair — Does anyone have a reclining shower chair that could be used for handicapped children or adults? Call (574) 966-5295, ext. 1.
Mattress/box spring — Does anyone have an old steel-coil innerspring mattress or box spring they would like to get rid of? I would like the regular size or smaller. Call (574) 646-2603 and leave your name and phone number.
Mobile screenings for breast, lung cancer coming to Mentone May 14
Residents of Mentone and surrounding communities will have access to cancer screenings during a Mobile Screening Event on Thursday, May 14, at the Mentone Fire Department, 201 W. Main St., Mentone.
The event will offer:
• Mobile mammograms from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Lung cancer screenings from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Those who should consider screening:
• Mammograms: Women ages 40-plus who have not had a screening in the past year.
• Lung screening (must meet all requirements): Adults age 50 to 77; current or former smokers (must have quit within the past
15 years); history of smoking at least 20 pack-years (one pack per day for 20 years or two packs per day for 10 years).
Screenings are available by appointment or walk-ins are accepted if slots are available.
To schedule, call (260) 4831847 for mammograms or call (317) 962-5864 for lung cancer screenings.
The event is coordinated by Live Well Kosciusko, with the idea that bringing together screening providers like IU Health and Parkview Health at one central location will help expand access to preventive care services to the community.
“We encourage anyone who is eligible to take advantage of this
opportunity. These screenings can make a real difference and having them here locally removes a lot of barriers people face,” said Jill Gross, Mentone Town Council member.
Breast and lung cancer are among the most common cancers affecting Hoosiers. Regular screenings can significantly improve outcomes. Community members are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity.
For more information about this event or other community events, contact Live Well Kosciusko at (574) 372-3514.
Insurance is accepted for most screenings. Uninsured individuals are encouraged to call to learn about available options.
Historical group offer a walk through history
By ANDREA GRANGER Marketing Communications Coordinator
Warsaw Community Public Library
There’s something wondrous about moving through a place on foot that changes how it speaks to you. Streets feel less like routes and more like layers, each one holding traces of the people and moments that came before. On Saturday, May 16, the Warsaw Community Public Library and Winona Lake Historical Society will offer a glimpse into Winona Lake’s past.
A free guided walking tour led by the Winona Historical Society will begin at Westminster Hall and continue at an easy pace through several notable sites throughout the town. Stops include the former home of Billy Sunday, Grotto Springs and the Beyer Home, along with other locations that help tell the story of the community’s growth and change over time. Each stop adds a page to the rich story of Winona Lake’s past, connecting landmarks to the lives and events that helped shape them.
This tour will run from 10:30 a.m. to noon and is designed as a conversational experience. Guides will share stories that bring forward both well-documented history and lesser-known details, offering participants a way to see the city through a broader historical lens.
As a cornerstone of our community, Warsaw Community Public Library strives to make local histo-
SATURDAY TOUR The Warsaw Community Public Library and the Winona Lake Historical Society will offer a free guided historical walking tour of Winona Lake on Saturday, May 16. Graphic provided by Warsaw Community Public Library.
ry accessible to all. This event not only fosters connections for both residents and visitors but also encourages meaningful engagement with our past. For those who join, this experience becomes more than a stroll through Winona. It is a brief return to earlier chapters of the place itself, where history is
for Humanity.
Habitat for Humanity celebrates home dedication
Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County celebrated the dedication of its latest home in Warsaw.
During the dedication, the keys were presented to the family, the home was blessed and attendees had the opportunity to celebrate with Alexis and her kids and tour their new home.
This home marks a milestone, as it was built and funded entirely through Habitat’s annual Women Build.
not only remembered but felt in the streets beneath your feet.
Tour information
• Location: Westminster Hall, 105 9th St., Winona Lake
• When: Saturday, May 16
• Time: 10:30 a.m. to noon
• Registration required online at warsawlibrary.org
Country singer Darryl Worley to headline Freedom Fest
The ML Community Impact Alliance and the Freedom Fest Committee have announced that country music star Darryl Worley will headline the Freedom Fest Concert on Saturday, June 6, at the Kosciusko County Community Fairgrounds in Warsaw.
Joining Worley for a night of live music will be special guests Jason Michael Carroll, performing with his full band, and rising country artist Keenie Word.
The concert is a centerpiece of Freedom Fest, a multi-day celebration honoring America’s 250th birthday.
Worley is known for his patriotic anthem “Have You Forgotten?”and chart-topping hits like “I Miss My Friend” and “Awful, Beautiful Life.”
“We are incredibly excited to bring Darryl Worley to Freedom
Fest as our headliner,” organizers said in a news release. “His music, especially his tribute to our nation and veterans, aligns perfectly with the mission of this celebration. Adding Jason Michael Carroll and Keenie makes this a can’t-miss night of country music for our community and beyond.”
Tickets and additional details are available at kcfreedomfest. org, and tickets also are available at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ freedom-fest-country-jam-tickets-1987660967460?aff=oddtdtcreator.
Grandstand general admission tickets are $10, and track general admission tickets are $20. There also will be standing room at the front of the stage and limited upclose seating options available.
Outside chairs and coolers will not be permitted inside the concert area.
Freedom Fest will take place June 5–7, featuring a full lineup of family-friendly activities including live entertainment, historical reenactments, a parade, car show, 5K run, veterans recognition and more, all leading up to this featured concert event.
Camping is available for the weekend at the fairgrounds. For reservations, call the fair office at (574) 269-1823. For all other questions, send an email to info@kcfreedomfest.org.
Freedom Fest is organized by the ML Community Impact Alliance, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing quality of life through community collaboration, events and initiatives that bring people together.
More than 235 women volunteers contributed 1,348 hours to bring the home to life, and they raised over $170,000 from hundreds of donors to make the project possible for the family.
Without the support of large sponsors or grants, this effort showcases what can happen when strong women come together to build a stronger community. “This year raised seven times more mon-
ey and had twice the number of volunteers than the previous year, and that just goes to show the power of when women from our community work together” says Stacy Price, chair of Habitat’s events committee and Habitat board member. “We are so blessed to live in such a generous community.”
Now, Alexis will move into her new home and pay it back with a 0% interest mortgage through Habitat’s Homeownership Program. Habitat is currently planning another Women Build for 2026 and is looking for team leaders. To support, participate, or sign up to lead a Women Build team, email women@kosciuskohabitat.org or call (574) 269-4104.
Learn more about the Women Build at kosciuskohabitat.org/ womenbuild or follow @kosciuskohabitat on Facebook for updates on homeownership journeys.
Pierceton Classic Motorcycle Show coming Saturday, May 17
The Pierceton Classic Motorcycle Show will be 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 17 in Brower Park.
The show is open to bikes from all years and manufacturers, with 12 classes, including stock,
custom, racing, off road and tiddler. Over 36 trophies will be presented, including a people’s choice award.
Registration is from 8-10 a.m, with a $15 fee for the first bike and $5 for each additional bike.
Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.
Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.
Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.
Walls Ceilings Window And Door Trim
Walls Ceilings Window And Door Trim
Walls Ceilings Window And Door Trim
Small Patch Repair
Small Patch Repair
Drywall Repair
Drywall Repair
Small Patch Repair
Great Service – Reasonable Rates
Great Service – Reasonable Rates
Drywall Repair
References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075
References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075
Great Service – Reasonable Rates
References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075
SINGING FOR FREEDOM FEST Country singer Darryl Worley will headline the Freedom Fest Concert on June 6 in Warsaw. He will be accompanied by Jason Michael Carroll and Keenie Word. Graphic provided by ML Community Impact Alliance.
PRESENTED THE KEYS New homeowner, Alexis, left, receives the key to her home from Ben Logan, right, executive director of Habitat for Humanity. Photos provided by Habitat
Open Class Fashion Show at Elkhart County 4-H Fair
All seamstresses are encouraged to enter the 2026 Open Class Fashion Show, which is a part of the Elkhart County 4-H Fair. The deadline for entering is July 1. The fashion show has age divisions and categories for clothing.
Judging is based on the contestant - appearance, posture, poise and grooming; the garment on the contestant - becomingness, fit, style, texture, fabric, effect of undergarments, and accessories;
and the constructed article - fabric and trimmings, workmanship, related values, and the quality of work as it contributes to the overall look as it is modeled.
The fashion show judging will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 16, in the Elkhart County Community Center on the Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds in Goshen.
The public show will be part of the Open House at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 23, in the Elkhart County Community Center. Win-
ners will be announced and prizes awarded.
All interested seamstresses are encouraged to participate. The rules and regulations and entry form are available at the Purdue Extension Elkhart County Office, located on the Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds, just inside Gate 2 at 17746 CR 34, Goshen. You can also request a digital copy by calling Jenn at (574) 533-0554 or email fink24@ purdue.edu.
National Genealogical Society Conference
The National Genealogical Society will host its 48th annual Family History Conference May 27-30 in Fort Wayne.
The event, held at the Grand Wayne Convention Center, is being presented in partnership with the Allen County Public Library Genealogy Center. The conference commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
May 27-30
with a focus on storytelling, community connections and researching 250 years of American history.
Attendees can take part in a variety of research sessions, hear from expert speakers and explore genealogy resources. Both in-person and virtual participation options are available.
The Grand Wayne Convention Center is located at 120 W. Jeffer-
Nappanee Parks
announces
son Blvd., Fort Wayne.
Registration is located in the convention center’s lobby facing Jefferson Boulevard on level one. For a full list of speakers, sessions and registration details, visit conference.ngsgenealogy.org.
Anyone needing transportation or interested in attending may contact Steven Brink at (574) 3547155.
‘KidsCamp’ for preschool, elementary students
Nappanee Parks and Recreation is preparing to launch its All KidsCamp summer program for children from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade.
The camp will offer weekly sessions from 9 a.m. to noon
Monday, June 8 to Friday, June 12, and Monday, July 6 to Friday, July 10, allowing families to enroll children for one or both weeks. Daily activities are scheduled.
Organizers said the camp
will feature story time, arts and crafts, movement-based activities, outdoor recreation and snacks. Activities will take place both indoors and outside.
The cost is $50 per child per week, and advance registration is required through the department’s online registration system.
Parks officials said the program is designed to provide an inclusive recreational experience for younger children during the summer break.
Warsaw students named as prom court, royalty
Warsaw Community High School celebrated a memorable “Enchanted Forest” prom on Saturday, May 2. As part of the evening, the 2026 prom court and royalty were recognized.
Representing the senior class were Megan Kuhaneck, Melany Meyo, Shannon Smith and Sophia Stewart, alongside Jack Burnett, Talen Chivington, Samuel McIntyre and Carter Stokes.
The junior class representatives included Kaylee Baker, Molly Carman, Gianna Stouder and Kendra Sumpter, along with Nathaniel Friedberg, Cohen McCray and Mason Srogi.
The evening continued with the announcement of prom royalty. Kendra Sumpter was named prom princess and Mason Srogi was named prom prince for the junior class. Shannon Smith was crowned prom queen and Samuel McIntyre was named prom king for the senior class.
“This is always a special night for our students,” said Principal Troy Akers. “Prom is more than a tradition. It is an opportunity to celebrate our students, their friendships and the memories they have created together.”
Ladies boating class May 30
A ladies boater education course will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 30, at the Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N. Long Drive.
This special ladies only session is designed to encourage open questions in a comfortable learning environment. Conservation officers from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources will lead the course, covering boating laws, emergency procedures, navigation rules and safe
operation practices. Donuts and a light lunch will be provided. It is free but women must pre-register. For more information and to pre-register, visit chautauquawawasee.org/events/ ladies-boater-education-course, call (574) 377-7543 or email info@ chautauquawawasee.org.
This class is presented in partnership with The Department of Natural Resources and Main Channel Marina.
PROM KING AND QUEEN Samuel McIntyre, left, and Shannon Smith were crowned the 2026 prom king and queen at Warsaw Community High School’s prom May 2. Photo provided by Kristina Kolembe, student body president.
PROM PRINCE AND PRINCESS Mason Srogi, left, and Kendra Sumpter were named the 2026 prom prince and princess at Warsaw Community High School’s prom May 2. Photo provided by Kristina Kolembe, student body president.
Kosciusko foundation helps nonprofits master board, fundraising strategies
Nearly 90 nonprofit leaders from 45 organizations in the community and from across northern Indiana recently attended a nonprofit workshop on “Mastering Donor & Board Engagement,” according to a May 1 news release from the Kosciusko County Community Foundation.
The event was hosted by the Kosciusko County Community Foundation and supported by the Community Foundation of Elkhart County, K21 Health Foundation and Orange Marketing Group.
During the workshop, leadership from the Community Foundation of Elkhart County provided insights on strategies that elevate fundraising, strengthen board relationships, amplify storytelling and cultivate board leadership. Speakers at the event included Pete McCown, president; Carrie Berghoff, chief devel-
opment officer; Brian Cook, chief marketing and communications officer; Marshall King, director of communications; and Kevin Deary, chief professional and organizational development officer.
“As a part of our mission, the Kosciusko County Community Foundation seeks to build nonprofit capacity through meaningful learning and training opportunities,” said Alex Hall, vice president of programs at the Community Foundation. “We are thankful for the Community Foundation of Elkhart County’s partnership and expertise in lifting up the nonprofit leaders in and around Kosciusko County so that they can continue to deepen their impact on our communities.”
Organizations attending the workshop were entered into a random drawing and surprised with a $500 grant for operating support at the conclusion of the
Nappanee Parks to host Firefly Hunt, nature activities in June
Nappanee Parks and Recreation will host a firefly-themed outdoor event 5-7 p.m. Monday, June 27 featuring nature activities, crafts and storytelling for families.
The “Hide and Glow Seek” program is held along the city’s nature trails. Participants will search for decorative “fireflies” during a guided hunt and take part in activities centered on insects and the outdoors.
The event will also include a bug walk led by Elkhart County Parks, storytime presented by the Nappanee Public Library, a firefly craft project and samples of “s’mores in a bag.”
Admission is $5 per child. Organizers said pre-registration
is required by Tuesday, June 21 through the Nappanee Parks registration website.
event. The two recipients were Hope’s Harbor and the Community Arts Program of Kosciusko
County. To learn more about the Kosciusko County Community Foundation, including the resources available to nonprofit organizations, visit kcfoundation. org.
Results of Kosciusko County Prescription Drug Take Back disposal event
Community members safely disposed of expired, unused and unwanted prescription medications during a Prescription Drug Take Back event April 25.
The free, anonymous event was part of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s 30th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.
The event provided a safe and convenient way for residents to remove potentially dangerous medications from their homes and help prevent misuse, theft and accidental poisoning.
A total of 525.5 pounds of unwanted medications was collected during the most recent Take Back Day from drop-off boxes across Kosciusko County. Since April 2021, 7,337 pounds have been properly disposed of.
Residents can continue to use permanent prescription drug drop-off boxes located throughout the county.
Kosciusko Coalition on Drug Education manages the county’s Prescription Drug Drop-Off Box initiative in partnership with
the 525 Foundation and local law enforcement agencies, including: Claypool, Mentone, Milford, Pierceton, Silver Lake, Syracuse, Warsaw and Winona Lake police departments, as well as the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, coroner’s office and prosecuting attorney’s office. Drop-off box locations include: Claypool Police Department, 408 S. Graceland Ave. Mentone Police Department, 201 W. Main St.
in April
Milford Police Department, 121 S. Main St. Pierceton Police Department, 207 N. First St. Silver Lake Police Department, 604 N. Jefferson St. Syracuse Police Department, 310 N. Huntington St. Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, 221 W. Main St., Warsaw. Warsaw Police Department, 2191 E. Fort Wayne St. Winona Lake Fire Department, 1000 Kings Highway.
UPDATING SKILLS Kosciusko County Community Foundation recently hosted nearly 90 nonprofit groups for a workshop about bolstering donor and board engagement. Photo
provided by Kosciusko County Community Foundation.
O B ituaries
Betty Marie Wildman
Former United Telephone Company Secretary
Betty Marie Wildman of Grace Village Retirement Community, Winona Lake, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Monday, May 4, 2026.
She was born July 21, 1930, in Milford, to Edward A. and Edith (Dewart) Smith. On April 17, 1949, she was united in marriage to Walter Vere Wildman. They shared 66 years together before he passed away Sept. 4, 2015.
Betty graduated from Milford High School as valedictorian of her class in 1948. She held a secretarial position at United Telephone Company in Warsaw for a few years and then became a stay-at-home mom and homemaker. She grew up at New Salem Church, Milford, where she was a member for many years and then became a member of Calvary Baptist Church, Oswego.
Betty’s favorite pastimes were reading and gardening. Most of all, she enjoyed her family and especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She will be lovingly remembered by her three sons, Ronald (Sharon) Wildman, Randall (Adena) Wildman and Robert (Keeley) Wildman, all of Warsaw. Also surviving are five grandchildren, John (Sarah) Wildman, Carmel, Jane (Stephen) Warwick, New Bern, N.C., Anna Beth Wildman, Chicago, Ill., Luke (Lauryn) Wildman, Warsaw, and Brandon Wildman, Leesburg; as well as four great-grandchildren, Hope Wildman, Jude Wildman, Jack Wildman and Amy Warwick.
She would most want to be remembered for her faith in her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Betty was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and two sisters, Erma Mathews and Leliah Janet Lambert.
Burial was private at Leesburg Cemetery. The family received friends from 10-11 a.m. Friday, May 8, at the chapel at Grace Village Retirement Community, 337 Grace Village Drive, Winona Lake. A memorial service followed at 11 a.m. with Pastor Jack Teeple and Chaplain Bryan Benjamin officiating.
Memorial donations may be made to Lakeland Child Evangelism Ministries, P.O. Box 612, Winona Lake, IN 46590; or to Grace Village Retirement Community. Envelopes will be provided at the service. For additional information and to view Betty’s online obituary, please visit churchfuneralsdirect.com.
Marilyn Cummings
Marilyn Cummings, 94, Winona Lake, died Tuesday May 7, 2026, at Grace Village Retirement Community.
Arrangements are currently pending at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw.
William Austin Sexton
Shawn and Amanda (Dibley) Sexton, Syracuse, are the parents of a son, William Austin, born at 10:15 a.m. April 22, 2026, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 8 pounds, 1 ounce, and was 20 1/4 inches long.
Gideon Asher Borkholder
Luke and Emily (Miller) Borkholder, Nappanee, are the parents of a son, Gideon Asher, born April 28, 2026, at home. He weighed 7 pounds, 3.34 ounces.
Karson R. Martin
Chadwin and Jalinda (Ramer) Martin, Goshen, are the parents of a son, Karson R., born at 3:59 p.m. May 3, 2026, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed
Ranee Tom
Ranee Tom, 49, Leesburg, died after a car accident Thursday, May 7, 2026.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of North Webster.
Lowell and Beverly Barnhart
Graveside Ceremony
A graveside ceremony for the late Lowell E. and Beverly J. Barnhart will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 23, at the Syracuse Cemetery, corner of North Mill Street and West High Street, Syracuse, as they are laid to rest at the family grave site.
Friends, family and those who would like to pay their respects are welcome to attend.
Lowell and Beverly were married for 69 years and lived in Augusta, Ga., but the couple had deep roots in Kosciusko County, where they were born.
Lowell and Beverly met at Manchester College, where she was a cheerleader and he was a basketball star. After retirement from storied careers, they regularly traveled back to Kosciusko County for high school reunions.
Lowell Ellis Barnhart, the son of Leonard and Esther Barnhart, was born in Syracuse on Nov. 26, 1932. He passed away June 28, 2024, in Augusta, Ga., at the age of 91. Lowell was inducted into the Kosciusko County Basketball Hall of Fame and went on to play a stint with the Dodgers. He was a U.S. Army veteran who was a high school athletic director and later coached sports at Augusta College. His full obituary may be seen at thomaspoteet.com/obituaries/lowell-barnhart.
Beverly Jean Barnhart was originally from Warsaw. She was the daughter of Edmund and Ninabelle See (Eheremen) and was born Sept. 5, 1935. She passed away Sept. 15, 2025, in Augusta, Ga., at the age of 90. Beverly, a longtime educator, was the founding principal of John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School in Augusta, Ga., and the theater at the school bears her name. Her full obituary may be seen at thomaspoteet. com/obituaries/beverly-barnhart.
Lake City Bank welcomes marketing team member
Lake City Bank, Warsaw, is welcoming Matthew C. Deck as assistant vice president, content marketing officer.
In this position, Deck leads the creative development of marketing content to drive customer engagement and business growth, while aligning content to the bank’s brand identity. He has 39 years of combined professional experience in graphic design and copywriting. Deck earned a bachelor’s degree in visual communications design from Purdue University.
Wakarusa student and Model United Nations team receive highest award at national competition
Cedarville University’s Model United Nations team received the Outstanding Delegation award, the conference’s highest honor, at the National Model United Nations Conference in New York City, the world’s largest international Model UN competition.
7 pounds, 7 ounces, and was 20 inches long.
Weston David Beechy
Lynn and Dena (Miller) Beechy, Goshen, are the parents of a son, Weston David, born at 7:14 a.m. May 5, 2026, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 6 pounds, 14.8 ounces, and was 18 3/4 inches long.
Audrea Rosanne Kuhns
John and Elaine (Mast) Kuhns, Nappanee, are the parents of a daughter, Audrea Rosanne, born at 6:15 a.m. May 7, 2026, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 6 pounds, 13.6 ounces, and was 19 inches long.
Audrea joins five siblings: Jeremy, Virginia, Wendall, Garret and Karlin.
From March 28 to April 2, the team represented Jamaica in the conference, taking part in immersive diplomatic experiences that included visits to the U.N. Security Council and U.N. General Assembly. Team members also met with ambassadors from the United States and Jamaica and observed a U.N. Security Council session on the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict.
Abigail German of Nicholasville, Ky., and Jacob Zang of London, Ohio, served as co-captains, while Donnie Gardiner of Turks and Caicos and Kayla Sheaffer of Tucson, Ariz., won Outstanding Delegation in their committee, the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean.
In addition to German, Zang,
HATTON-SADLER FUNERAL CHAPELS
“Our families serving your family with professionalism, compassion and care.”
Gardiner and Sheaffer, a local student on the team was Nate Braun of Wakarusa.
Throughout the conference, the team demonstrated strong public speaking, writing and negotiation skills, along with the stamina, patience and likability needed to navigate four long days of debate.
Team members worked with representatives from around the world to find mutually beneficial solutions to difficult international problems, learning when to defend nonnegotiable priorities and when to make concessions on less essential issues.
“Model United Nations has played a crucial role in my undergraduate career,” said German.
“Learning to write resolutions in committee that must represent my member states’ views, as well as the views of other member states, whom I may not always agree with, has taught me the power of compromise to meet consensus and strategies for negotiation.”
Dr. Glen Duerr, chair of the history and government department and professor of international studies,
noted that the students’ Christlike attitudes distinguish them from other competitors.
“A willingness to show the love of Christ goes a long way in Model United Nations,” said Duerr. “We sought to have gospel conversations but found that simply reaching out and starting a conversation with someone can also lead to success when negotiating key international issues.”
German also reflected on the opportunity to represent Christ in a secular political sphere.
“The United Nations is often viewed by Christians as irredeemably tainted by secularism,” said German. “As a Christian, I am called to be engaged in every sphere of the world for Christ, and the U.N. serves purposes I can wholeheartedly pursue, such as ending poverty and world hunger. My life’s quest is to bring the light of Christ into political spheres where darkness seems to have suffocated truth, and both Model United Nations and Cedarville as a whole have helped prepare me for this.”
Car and motorcycle show to support local teen space
Cars & Motorcycles For Recovery will take place noon to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 16 at North Webster Community Center, 301 N. Main St. Entries in this car and motorcycle show are $15 each. Trophies will be given to first and second place winners. There will also be raffle contests and food for visitors. All proceeds will support R.I.S.E. Teen Space, a meeting place dedicated to giving local teens a safe, supportive environment to be themselves.
Contact (260) 229-8581 or crystal@literecoveryhub.org with any questions.
BETTY MARIE WILDMAN
LOWELL AND BEVERLY BARNHART
MATTHEW C. DECK
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:
Hollar Dental Group v. Tadd Burch, $1,868.91
Snow and Sauerteig LLP v. Tonya Cook, $4,804.18; v. Ryan Crippin, $7,560; v. Crystal Lewallen, $1,478.74; v. Jessica Reed, $5,411.21; v. Jason Siegel, $3,254.21; v. Jeremy Thomas, $4,878.55
Community Wide Federal Credit Union v. Randall L. Croy, $4,995.53; v. David A. Ford, $8,203.65; v. Gabriel C. Hettinger, Chloe L. Salyer, $8,654.87; v. Tasha Salyer, $8,153.07
Warsaw Health System LLC, d/b/a Kosciusko Community Hospital v. Alyssa Fannin, Jonathon Fannin, $1,227.67
Partners 1st Federal Credit Union v. Michael D. Mauzy, $1,997.32
Civil Collections
The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler presiding: Interra Credit Union v. Rosalio Alvarez, $5,138.77
Prizm Financial Co. LLC v. Rebecca Ashby, $6,424.04
Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Elvira Barrera, $8,635.93
Via Credit Union v. Ray Belcher, $13,384.46
NCB Management Services Inc. v. Jordan I. Caudill, $15,372.78
Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. Barry A. Coy, $1,990.62; v. Philip F. Fozo, $3,780.06; v. Shannon C. Gangwer, $3,399.89; v. Tabatha Nowaczynski, $8,482.96
LVNV Funding LLC, as successor in interest to Credit One Bank NA v. Michael Hacker, $2,498.79
Mariner Finance LLC v. Shane C. Hise Jr., $10,729.60
Fourteen Twenty LLC v. Kendra S. Jurhs, $22,660.27
Midland Credit Management Inc. v. Tabirha Kyburz, a/k/a Tabitha Kyburz, $3,628.46; v. Norman McCord, $1,097.99
LVNV Funding LLC v. Kara Lemler, $5,139.26; v. Lindsay Lewis, $3,828.59; v. Lori Spriggs, $858.37; v. Patrick Waggoner, $811.91; v. Holly Wood, $681.06
Jefferson Capital Systems LLC v. Samantha R. Miller, $2,286.80; v. Mary A. Park, $11,825.74; v. Rose Ringler, $23,153.77
Mariner Finance LLC v. Michael C. Nicholson, $3,031.30
Bank of America NA v. Russell L. Pigman, $6,517.31
Capital One NA successor by merger to Discover Bank v. Edward J. Yuker, $8,607.64
Plenaries
The following plenary has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court I, Judge Karin McGrath presiding: First Farmers Bank and Trust v. Lori A. Newsome, Shane Newsome, $7,227.78
Evictions
The following evictions have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:
Porter Estates v. Rachal Monroe, Philip Smith, $5,773.86
Kline Investments LLC v. Nicolas Price, $4,506.76
Superior Court III
The following fines and costs for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:
Speeding - Nery C. Alonzo, Warsaw, $164.50; Tassara D. Faulkner, Warsaw, $164.50; Eric S. Swick, Syracuse, $164.50; Taylor M. Davis, Winona Lake, $164.50
Driving while suspendedJesus E. Lopez-Bonilla, Warsaw, $189.50
Owner allows dog to stray beyond owner’s premises - Terry L. Beck, Warsaw, $25
Driving left of center - Edgar Manuel Gomez-Diaz, Warsaw, $164.50
Failure to provide vehicle registration certificate - Joshua T. Peace, Milford, $164
Failure to register - Anthony B. Johnson, North Manchester, $164.50; Jordan J. Vasquez, Syracuse, $164.50
Operating a motor vehicle without financial responsibility - Kaitlynn F. Scarberry, Pierceton, $189.50; Randy Adkins, Warsaw, $189.50; Thadeus M. Lewis, Claypool, $140.50; Jared M. Adair, Warsaw, $140.50
Failure of occupant to use a safety belt - William R. Puckett, Claypool, $25; Luke E. Marshall, Warsaw, $25
No valid driver’s license - Sasha L. Hall, Warsaw, $164.50; Aaron P. Snyder, Cromwell, $164.50; Elijah N. Watkins, Pierceton, $164.50
Operating a motor vehicle without financial responsibility, failure of occupant to use a safety belt - Derek A. Timmons, Syracuse, $214.50
Operating with expired plates - Logan C. Trombley, Etna Green, $164
Registration and display of registration violation - Juan C. Juarez, Warsaw, $164
Holding or using a telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle - Norman E. Witteborg, Warsaw, $164.50
Marriage Licenses
The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court
Melissa Boggs: Julian-Reeves
Billie Deanne Julian, 22, Pierceton, and Bryant William Reeves, 24, Pierceton Arnold-Young
Brandon Joe Miller, 24, Nappanee, and Audra Katherine Roman, 19, Columbia City Light-Baker
Nicholas Cannon Light, 29, Warsaw, and Shaniah Elizabeth Baker, 25, Warsaw Evans-Stafford
Rex Allan Evans, 46, Etna Green, and Carissa Marie Stafford, 32, Etna Green Avery-Chadwick
Katelyn M. Avery, 28, Warsaw, and Trey A. Chadwick, 29, Warsaw Wippel-Jacobson
Michael Lee Wippel, 19, Warsaw, and Kailey Esther Jacobson, 20, Warsaw Proietti-Buchanan
Gary Edmond Proietti, 70, Mentone, and Sandra Eve Buchanan, 68, Mentone Munoz-Solorzano
Gustavo A. Munoz Jr., 51, Warsaw, and Mercedes R. Solorzano, 52, Warsaw Everly-Taylor
Amanda Nadene Everly 37, Pierceton, and Judah Wayne Taylor, 33, Warsaw Kauffman-Miller
Gary Wayne Kauffman, 21, Nappanee, and Emily Rose Miller, 20, Etna Green Elder-Holbrook
Shawn Douglas Elder, 32, Warsaw, and Samantha Ann Holbrook, 32, Warsaw
Marriage Dissolutions
The following couples have filed for a marriage dissolution in Kosciusko
Superior Courts I or IV: Wilson - Shari Wilson, Milford, and Caleb Wilson, Warsaw. They were married Oct. 27, 2025; separated March 28, 2026. Two minor children. Jennings - Brian Jennings, Milford, and Michelle Jennings, Warsaw.
They were married Oct. 11, 2014; separated Dec. 30, 2025. No minor child(ren).
Alonzo - Rolando Alonzo, Warsaw, and Jessica Alonzo, Syracuse. They were married Sept. 25, 2021; separated April 6, 2025. No minor child(ren).
Warsaw student Schenck appointed to KYLA board
Michael Schenck has been elected to an at-large seat on the board of directors for the Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy for the 2026-2027 term.
Schenck was selected by the board of directors to fill one open position from a field of 34 possible candidates from seven school systems.
His background in activities includes football and track and field, Key Club, SODA and Tiger Leadership Council. He will be a graduate of Warsaw Community High School in the spring of 2027.
Additionally, Schenck is a 2026 graduate of the Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy, where he participated with four other
MICHAEL SCHENCK
group members in developing and implementing an extensive service project related to the
collection and purchase of more than 200 pairs of shoes and an undisclosed amount of money for the sports ministry Agaitas, an international sports camp and outreach program with its origins in Warsaw.
“We are proud to have Mr. Schenck join the board of directors this upcoming year,” said Cindy Krou, KYLA president. “We believe Michael has the necessary leadership skill set to help assist the board in an advisory capacity to help further develop the program in leadership and community service.”
Schenck’s term will begin in May 2026 and continue through May 2027.
Lilly Center welcomes research technician to team
The Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams, Winona Lake, is welcoming Joel Petrie to its team.
In his new role of research technician, Petrie will be responsible for collecting data, guiding college interns and maintaining stream sensors placed around Kosciusko County.
“During his internship at the Lilly Center as an environmental studies student, Joel honed his fieldwork abilities and grew a deeper understanding of data collection,” said Dr. Nate Bosch, Creighton Bros. endowed director of the Lilly Center. “His passion for aquatic research is evident in the quality work he’s done, and we’re excited to see how much more he’ll contribute to the Lilly Center in this new role.”
Petrie attended Grace College for three years, earning a bachelor’s in science with a focus on environmental studies. While at Grace, he also balanced his time as a Lilly Center intern, working on the field research team and
eventually becoming the team lead. As an intern, Petrie practiced ethical data collection and showed supervising skills that should serve him well in his new position.
“I’m excited to have Joel step into the research technician role,” said Matt Burlingame, assistant director of research at the Lilly Center. “Joel has been a leader on
the field team since he started, and he quickly became a knowledgeable and reliable part of the crew. His experience in the field, familiarity with our stream sensor network and work ethic make him a perfect fit for the research team.”
By collecting weekly water samples and monitoring lakes and streams, the Lilly Center aims to ensure that Kosciusko County’s lakes and streams are clean, healthy and safe.
The Lilly Center is committed to gathering data on Kosciusko County waterways to help protect natural resources and keep community members safe on the water. Beginning in May, the center will publish weekly microcystin toxin reports that residents can sign up to receive, so they can recreate safely on their lake.
Join the email list for microcystin toxin notifications or learn more about the Lilly Center by visiting lakes.grace.edu/microcystin.
Camp Crosley receives grant
The YMCA of Muncie, on behalf of Camp Crosley YMCA, on Lake Tippecanoe near North Webster, has received a $6 million matching grant from the Lilly Endowment Inc. through its capital project initiative for residential youth camps, according to a news release from the YMCA of Muncie. With the grant, the YMCA of Muncie will launch a $6 million capital campaign to fully leverage the matching funds, resulting in a total $12 million investment in Camp Crosley YMCA. This effort will support significant capital improvements to enhance facilities and expand programming that strengthens youth development, outdoor education and lead-
ership opportunities.
These improvements will position Camp Crosley to serve more youth and deepen the impact of its programs, helping young people build confidence, independence and lifelong skills in a safe and engaging environment. The project reflects the YMCA’s mission to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.
“This investment allows us to reimagine what’s possible for the young people we serve,” said Mark Battig, executive director at Camp Crosley. “Camp Crosley has long been a place where kids discover who they are and what
they can achieve. With these enhancements - and the support of our community through this campaign - we’ll be able to reach more youth and deepen the impact of every experience.”
The grant is one of 40 implementation grants being awarded through phase three of the Lilly Endowment initiative, which aims to help Indiana residential youth camps improve the overall camp experience and outcomes for youth through new, enhanced and expanded facilities integral to quality youth camp programming. The latest grants, which were competitive, provide partial support for large-scale capital projects.
Many beautiful pictures and artwork, kitchen/vintage kitchen, some books, linens, beautiful oak pool table, Remington 541-T 22 Rifle, Remington
870 Super Mag Camo 12ga, Mossberg
590 Extended Tube 12ga, Remington
700 22-250 Rifle, Remington 1100 12ga, fishing poles, Martin compound bow, Craftsman tool chest work bench, Simplicity Snowblower, Wheelbarrow, Leaf Blower, many small/hand tools, vise, shopvac, stepladders, large NASCAR car collection, vintage unopened Jim Beam decanters, beer signs/mirrors, foosball table, 3 stereos, game/poker table and chairs, 2 grandfather clocks, china cabinets, patio, bedroom, and living room furniture, household, and much more! Pictures & details on estatesales.net
…is conducting a: 3328 N. Chase Dr., Warsaw Sunday, May 17 • 8 am-4 pm (signup sheet available by 7am) We will go to 1/2 price later in the day!! Garage Sales A040
9:30 a.m. Friday, May 15. Located at Chupp Auction Center, 890 S. Van Buren St., Shipshewana. Farm Equipment Auction
9 a.m. Saturday, May 16. Located 1½ miles east of Middlebury on CR 16 to CR 43, north 1½ miles to 55216 CR 43, Middlebury.
Online Only Auction
Bidding open until Tuesday, May 18. Pickup at 1582 W. SR
114, North Manchester. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Phone Bid Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 3 p.m. Thursday, May 21. Property lcoated 3 miles north of Millersbrg on SR 13 to CR 38, then east 2 miles to E. County Line Road, then north to 64915 E. County Line Road, Millersburg. For bidding and bidding updates, call
(574) 642-0444.
Land Auction
6 p.m. Thursday, May 21. Located at North Webster Community Center, 302 N. Main St. Property located on E. Old Road 30, Pierceton. Schrader Auction, schraderauction.com.
City Of Warsaw Surplus And Seizures Online Auction Bidding open until 6 p.m. Thursday, May 21. Pickup in War-
Byrum Estate Auction Noon Friday, May 22. Located at Hahn Auction Facility, 401 S. Oakland Ave., Nappanee. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Phone Bid Topeka Real Estate Auction Bidding open until 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 26. Property located 3
1/3 miles on SR 5 to 100S, then east 1 mile to 700W, then south 1/2 mile to 1335 S. 700W, Topeka. For bidding and bidding updates, call (574) 642-0444.
Online Real Estate Auction 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 27. Open house 1-2 p.m. Saturday, May 23. Property located at 119 EMS B1A Lane, Leesburg. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Community foundation awards grant to Nappanee PACE
The Community Foundation of Elkhart County has approved $3,429,748 in new grants to support nonprofit organizations across Elkhart County. The funding was approved
during the board’s April 16 meeting and spans the foundation’s three priority areas - Kids and Families, Placemaking and Career Pathways - along with its Opportunity Fund.
“Each of these grants reflects months of conversation with the nonprofits doing the work,” said Guy Fisher, chief program officer.
“Our role is to listen carefully, understand what’s needed, and help
good ideas find the resources to take root in this community.”
Among the placemaking awards, the City of Nappanee received $100,000 for the Nappanee PACE Connection Trail, aimed at
LaGrange County Community Foundation announces inaugural Howe Legacy Scholarship recipients
The LaGrange County Community Foundation announces the inaugural recipients of the Howe Legacy Scholarship, awarding 10 students $5,000 each in scholarships to support their continued
New ECSO officers accept the oath of office
New corrections and patrol officers with the Elkhart County Sheriff’s Office took their oaths of office Monday, May 11, during a ceremony in Elkhart Superior Court 2, Goshen.
Judge Andrew Hicks administered the oath.
Among the new officers is Corrections Officer Lucio Chumas, a 2011 graduate of Northwood High School, Nappanee. Chumas graduated from Franklin College in 2015 with majors in chemistry and biology and began his career with the sheriff’s office April 20.
Other officers sworn in included:
• Corrections Officer Jack Ballard, a 2025 graduate of Heritage High School, Broadlands, Ill., who began April 6.
• Corrections Officer Samuel Clemons, a 2024 graduate of Penn High School, Mishawaka,
who began March 9.
• Corrections Officer Carla Hernandez-Velasco, a 2025 graduate of Goshen High School, who began April 6.
• Patrol Officer Kalen Smith, a 2003 graduate of Brandywine High School, Niles, Mich. Smith began in corrections April 22 and was promoted to patrol Nov. 30, 2025.
• Corrections Officer Drew Smithson, a 2005 graduate of Eastern Howard High School, Greentown, who began March 16.
• Corrections Officer John Vogt, a 2000 graduate of Clay High School. Vogt earned an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Brown Mackie College in 2013 and began March 23.
postsecondary education.
The Howe Legacy Scholarship Fund was established to honor the 135-year history of Howe Military Academy and to invest in the future of students connected to the institution and the broader LaGrange County community.
This year marks the first round of awards, with recipients selected through a competitive application process. A volunteer committee reviewed applications using a criteria-based evaluation process, with selections based on academic achievement, eligibility and demonstrated leadership inside and outside the classroom.
A local 2026 Howe Legacy Scholar is Wade Springer, Millersburg, who will attend Grove City College to study biochemistry.
To be eligible, applicants must be enrolled full time in an accredited two- or four-year college, university, trade school or vocational program in the United States with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Applicants must also be either a direct descendant of a
HELP WANTED LIBRARY DIRECTOR
Bell Memorial Library - Mentone, IN
To be considered for the position, a Bachelor’s Degree with an Indiana Librarian Certificate 4 (LC4) or the ability to meet the requirements for that level of certification is required. Experience consisting of two to five years in a public library environment with at least two to three years of supervisory/management experience, preferred.
The Director’s position has a salary commensurate with qualifications and experience, with a starting range based on a typical 40-hour work week. In addition to this, there are the standard leaves, plus a very generous amount of paid Holidays annually, and other benefits.
To be considered for the position, candidates should email a cover letter, resume, and three letters of reference to Mr. Chris Rassi at rassi.chris@ yahoo.com.
Resumes are being accepted until May 15, 2026, with interview dates to follow. The position becomes available July 1, 2026.
Howe Military Academy graduate or reside in LaGrange County.
“The Howe Legacy Scholarship reflects the commitment of preserving the school’s spirit of leadership and educational mission,” said Beth Retterbush, scholarship and LIFE program manager at the foundation. “We are honored to support these outstanding students as they pursue their academic and career goals.”
Following the closure of Howe Military Academy in 2019, proceeds from the sale of the campus helped establish two permanent funds at the Community Foundation: the Howe Legacy Fund, which supports community projects in Howe, and the Howe Legacy Scholarship Fund, which provides educational assistance to students.
enhancing community connectivity and recreation opportunities.
Kids and Families grants totaled $1,605,774, including major awards to Oaklawn Psychiatric Center, which received $750,000 over three years for early intervention support, and First Baptist Church of Elkhart, which received $175,000 for the Woodland Community Space.
Additional recipients included Goodwill Industries of Michiana, The Salvation Army of Elkhart and Ryan’s Place.
Placemaking grants totaled $1,509,000, highlighted by a $1 million award to Beacon Health Foundation for expansion of emergency and trauma services at Elkhart General Hospital.
The foundation also awarded $55,250 in Career Pathways grants and distributed $259,724 through its Opportunity Fund to support community partnerships, memberships and special initiatives.
“This round includes some of the most significant commitments we’ve made to early childhood support and to public spaces in recent memory,” Fisher said. “Both reflect what donors have told us they care about: a strong start for kids, and places where neighbors gather.”
The Community Foundation accepts Community Investment Grant applications twice a year, with deadlines in mid-February and mid-August. The next deadline is Aug. 15.
Ryan Burgher challenges KYLA grads to answer their calling
By MAKSYM HART Staff Writer
The 33rd annual Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy graduation banquet celebrated 34 students Wednesday, May 6, at The Owl’s Nest in North Webster.
Keynote speaker Ryan Burgher spoke extensively about leadership through service, encouraging students to pursue opportunities they feel called toward even when the outcome is uncertain. Burgher, a Warsaw native and founder of the sports
ministry AGAITAS, traced the organization’s growth from a single free soccer camp in 2012 to an international ministry operating camps, outreach programs and community events.
Burgher explained the ministry began after he and his wife, Nina, felt inspired to create a free soccer camp focused on serving children who otherwise might not be able to afford participation in organized sports.
“I felt called to do something,” Burgher said. “We wanted to make it free for every single kid that ever came. Sports are crazy expensive now.”
The original camp hosted 37 children at Lakeland Christian Academy. Burgher said the ministry has since expanded into basketball, baseball, golf, rugby, pickleball and cross-country camps, many staffed by high school volunteers and community members. He said nearly 1,000 students are currently registered across the organization’s camps and programs.
Throughout the speech, Burgher repeatedly returned to the themes of “calling,” “obedience” and “impact,” telling students meaningful service often begins with small decisions to act.
“When there’s a calling and you’re obedient, God will bless that,” Burgher said.
Burgher described several outreach efforts that grew unexpectedly after individuals chose to volunteer their time or talents. Among them were sports camps in Cameroon, Brazil and India, as well as local “pop-up camps” held in lower-income neighborhoods around Kosciusko County.
He shared a story from one of those local camps in which a child told volunteers his family had little food at home. Burgher said a community member who heard about the situation provided meals for children attending the camp the following day.
“The fact that you were called to do something is the main point,” Burgher told students. “The difference between having a calling and obedience is action.”
Burgher also praised the KYLA students for the work they completed throughout the year, saying he was encouraged by the pride students showed while presenting their community service projects.
“I have goosebumps just thinking about the impact that these kids are making,” he said. “Kids, you’re doing an awesome job.”
Each year a graduating KYLA student is named to serve one year on the board. This year’s student is Michael Schenck.
KYLA is a nonprofit organization that provides an opportunity for high school juniors in Kosciusko County to learn about leadership and become informed about the community they live in.
Applications are being accepted for next year’s class. Current high school sophomores are eligible to apply. The online application, as well as additional information about KYLA, can be found at kosciuskoyouthleadership. org. The application deadline is Wednesday, May 20.
KYLA GRADS The 2026 KYLA Graduates with their diplomas. Photo by Maksym Hart.
