Area water ski shows provides fun entertainment for the entire family
The weather is getting warmer and piers have been installed on the lakes for the season, which can mean only one thing, it’s time to head to the lakes for water ski shows Back in the day, most of the lakes in the county had a water ski club that performed Kosciusko County has two water ski organizations both offering shows during the summer months The Ski Bees have been performing on Webster Lake since 1953 while the Lake City Skiers have been competing and entertaining crowds since 1989
When the Ski Bees first started, most of the members lived on the lake year round Today, a handful live on the lake, while the rest come from the surrounding communities Some members are coming from as far as Texas, Arizona and California
The Ski Bees season begins with sign-up day, which will be June 14 Those interested in participating can show up at North Webster Town Park, sign up and participate in a practice for that evening’s performance
“We always accept new members,” said Mike Jones who’s been part of the Ski Bees for over 40 years Jones started with the Ski Bees at age 10
“Every show is a little different depending on who shows up,” Jones said “Skiers usually sign up for a specific act in the show ”
Over the years, the Ski Bees
have had to make some adjustments especially as youth club sports have become year round
“We’ve become more flexible (about rehearsals) because of that,” Jones said
“It’s really to keep this alive for the community It’s been going on since 1953,” Jones said about the dedication a core group of officers has for the Ski Bees Shows are held in front of North Webster Town Park Those attending can bring a lawn chair and find a great place to sit or come by boat The show area is cordoned off so boaters coming to watch know where to anchor Jones said there are safety/pickup boats patrolling the performance area making sure skiers are safe and boaters stay clear of those performing For those who cannot make it to sign up day, visit websterskibees com to find another opportunity to sign up The Ski Bees will be having five shows this season
According to Steve Hawblitzel, a member of the Lake City Skiers, at lot of the Lake City Skiers participants started in the Ski Bees While the Ski Bees are focused on family fun, the Lake City Skiers are a competitive team that competes in various tournaments, both regionally and nationally, while also putting on a ski show twice a week
“Both are great for the community,” Hawblitzel said
Each year, the Lake City Skiers has a theme for its show
This year it will be “Pirates of the Caribbean ”
“We’re getting Jack Sparrow out of retirement for one last swash-buckling adventure,” Hawblitzel said
He and his son, Andrew, are co-directors for this year’s show The first performance of the season will be at 6:30 Sunday, May 25
The show typically features about 50 skiers ranging in age from 3 to over 50, along with an additional 20 handling everything from costume design, running the souvenir stand and manning the safety/pickup boats
“If you know how to ski, we’ll be happy to have you,” Hawblitzel said He went on to stress, “There’s something for everyone That’s what brings families to the sport ”
For those interested in becoming a member of the Lake City Skiers, Hawblitzel directed them to the member package on the team’s website lakecityskiers org
The Lake City Skiers have
hosted regional tournaments many times at its home base on Hidden Lake, Warsaw Its own competition, City of Lakes Tournament will be held Father’s Day weekend But the team is extremely excited that it will be hosting the 2027 World Tournament, with teams from Australia, Mexico, Canada and other
County to compete for several weeks
“That for us is like bidding on the Olympics,” Hawblitzel said Anyone interested in becoming a corporate sponsor of the Lake City Skiers, either for a regular season or for the world tournament, should send an email to info@lakecityskiers
GRACE ON THE WATER Two members of the Webster Ski Bees perform a lift during a performance. Photo provided by Mike Jones.
A GRACEFUL LIFT Members of the Lake City Skiers perform a lift during one of their shows. It takes approximately 50 skiers, along with 20 people, working behind the scenes to make each show a success. Photo provided by ATB Sports.
FLYING THROUGH THE AIR Shown are two members of the Lake City Skiers performing. One stays on the water while another does a flip through the air. Photo provided by ATB Sports.
Reed is the new EMA coordinator
By LAUREN ZEUGNER Staff Writer
Gene Reed’s first week on the job was “intense.” He started Monday, May 12, as the new Emergency Management Agency coordinator. “There’s a lot to learn,” he said.
His job is to be an assistant to Kip Shuter, director of Kosciusko County Emergency Management Homeland Security.
In his professional career, Reed was a regional truck driver. He earned three national awards while driving trucks. He was named to the National Private Truck Council Hall Fame; received the Dodi Reagan Humanitarian Award; and Driver of the Year from the IRSA.
He has studied emergency services and emergency
management for 30 years on his own. Reed has been on a medical response team for nine years, a member of the Red Cross for five years and has been with the Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory for nine years. He brings 25 years of emergency service and volunteer work to the job.
Reed explained his interest in emergency service began when the Brownburg Fire Department needed a truckload of supplies delivered to a community in Missouri that had been devastated by floods. When Reed arrived at the disaster site, he found a way to use his talents to help.
“Since then, I was on five national deployments with the Red Cross Medical Response Team,” he said.
For the coordinator job, Reed said there is a lot to learn.
“I’m taking it all in. I had a good idea of the job when I came into it. Kip’s been a good mentor,” he said.
His primary responsibilities will be with mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery.
“Hopefully, in the fall, we’ll be starting a Community
Emergency Response Team training. So we’ll be looking for volunteers for that,” Shuter said. “That will be the primary part of his job, to get that up and running so we have people available for boots on the ground.”
The county used to have a CERT Team, but it’s fallen by the wayside.
During his first week, Reed
has been learning about what state and local resources are available and getting signed up to be included in briefings with the Indiana Department of Homeland Security as well as other agencies. On his first day, he and Shuter attended a National Weather Service severe weather planning seminar. Reed’s position is half-days and on-call as needed.
In his spare time he and his wife, Jane, enjoy flower gardening, growing both perennials and annuals. Reed also serves on the board of the North Webster Community Center and he is still an active member of the Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory.
The couple have four grown children, 14 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
“I’m just happy to have him,” Shuter said. “Traditionally, the EMA hasn’t had a partner, except an administrative assistant.”
Shuter explained having a coordinator is necessary with all the state and federal regulations the department works with.
“We have a lot of land to cover,” Shuter said. “We’re the fifth largest county land wise and the 21st county for a population and that goes up in the summer.”
STARTING A NEW JOB Gene Reed, right, just started a new job as EMA coordinator for Kosciusko County. His primary responsibilities will be assisting Kip Shuter, left, director of Kosciusko County Emergency Management Homeland Security. Photo by Lauren Zeugner.
First Senior Expo and Outreach to connect seniors with resources and services
The Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Paddock Springs, Live Well Kosciusko, Stillwater Hospice, CARES and McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, is proud to present the upcoming Senior Expo & Outreach. This will be
a community-focused event designed to connect seniors and their families with the many resources, services, and activities available to enhance their well-being. The expo will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, June 3, in the gym-
nasium at Lakeview Middle School, located at 848 E. Smith St., Warsaw. The event promises a full day of learning, connection, and fun.
This event is generously sponsored by Blue Moon Estate Sales, Grace Village, Goshen
Letter to the editor Has Indiana chosen to put vulnerable adults at risk?
Dear Editor,
The news that Indiana’s Adult Protective Service program that investigates cases of endangered adults has been awarded to a for-profit company has left current APS professionals and providers of services for those adults with questions.
I am a retired Adult Protective Service investigator, having served from 1998 until 2020, working out of the St. Joseph County prosecutor’s office (Unit 2 – hub office), serving St. Joseph, Elkhart, Marshall and Kosciusko counties. I primarily served Marshall and Kosciusko counties.
As the news broke, a friend was on a call with an investigator as the investigator received an email, and she realized she was losing her job. This was cruel and unprofessional on the part of the Family and Social Services Administration. There are unanswered questions and the state of Indiana and FSSA are not providing answers. The job posting for the new company states this will be a contracted position with no benefits. Current APS staff may choose
We welcome readers’ letters.
to not apply for these jobs without benefits. Years of valuable experience will be lost and vulnerable adults will be at risk.
APS has been housed in hub-prosecutor’s offices since 1988 in an agreement with the Indiana legislature and the Indiana Prosecuting Attorney’s Council. For years, the hub prosecutor offices financially supplemented the program, as well as some of the prosecuting attorney’s offices in the outlying counties. In 1998, the St. Joseph County hub served four counties with one director and one investigator. Over the years the funding and staffing increased, along with the need for services. The program has been underfunded for many years.
Caseloads per investigator remain high. An analysis of 2023 statistics shows the average caseload per investigator was 197.5 per year. That would be more than one new case per investigator every other day for a year. This caseload indicates these seasoned and dedicated APS professionals are of great value to the program.
I am concerned this change to
a for-profit company will diminish the collaboration of Adult Protective Service professionals and the many services they work with. Have FSSA and the state of Indiana just put vulnerable adults at risk? The very idea of a for-profit company that may cut services to make a profit on the backs of endangered adults and a dedicated and seasoned workforce is troubling.
Shortly after taking office, St. Joseph Prosecuting Attorney Micheal Dvorak met with our APS unit. He asked us each to write up one or two cases of significance each month, to document the stories of what was and was not successful. He wanted to understand the solutions we found and the helpful collaboration and partnership of many people in our communities. He stated, “Although statistics are important, they do not portray the whole story; this is our opportunity to do some good.”
Dedicated APS staff understand the people they serve are more than statistics.
Michelle Livinghouse Plymouth
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.
Mentone Egg City 5K June 7
The annual Mentone Egg City 5K run, one-mile walk and onemile family fitness walk is Saturday, June 7, during the Mentone Egg Festival.
The Mentone Beta Epsilon Chapter of Psi Iota Xi sorority is putting on the race.
Registration starts at 6:30 a.m. in front of the Mentone fire station. The race starts at 8 a.m. All proceeds go to Beta Epsilon to carry on its charitable giving in the Tippecanoe Valley School Corp.
Following the race, you can enjoy the pancake breakfast being held by the fire department, benefiting the Tippecanoe Valley football team, and then the parade at 11 a.m.
For more information or to have an entry form emailed to you, send an email to marshscott49@ gmail.com or call (574) 328-2034.
Home Medical, Home Helpers, Miller’s Senior Living, Peabody, Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Titus Funeral Home & Cremation and Visiting Angels.
The Senior Expo & Outreach will feature a wide range of exhibitors offering products and services tailored to senior living. From health and wellness resources to financial planning, home care and more, attendees will have the opportunity to explore valuable information and engage with local professionals. Informative speakers throughout the day will provide practical insights on senior health, safety and lifestyle enhancement.
Organizations and businesses interested in hosting a vendor
booth can now register online. Limited booth space remains. To register, visit kchamber.com and click on the events tab. The event is free and open to the public and is especially beneficial for seniors, caregivers, and family members looking to discover new ways to support aging well. Whether you’re seeking helpful services or simply looking for a day of meaningful connection, the Senior Expo & Outreach is an excellent opportunity to explore what’s available in the community and celebrate the value of senior living.
For more information, contact the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce at events@kchamber.com or (574) 267-6311.
Nappanee ‘Arts in the Parks’ for kids all summer
Nappanee Parks and Recreation has announced “Arts in the Parks,” a summer program for kids in grades K-8 on Mondays, until Friday, Aug. 8.
Kids receive a free snack and craft at one of Nappanee’s parks each weekday:
• Mondays — West Park, 500 N. Nappanee St.
• Tuesdays — Recovery Park, 600 S. Summit St.
• Wednesdays — South Park,
201 W. Reed St.
• Thursdays — West Park, 500 N. Nappanee St.
• Fridays — Stauffer Park, 754 Stauffer Drive.
A free lunch program is available to those with limited access to resources. Registration is required to receive lunch. Visit nappaneeparks.recdesk. com to register. This program is sponsored by The Center and Nappanee Parks and Recreation.
MAY MEMBER OF THE MONTH AT NORTH WEBSTER Shown honoring Legacy Group Real Estate are members of the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce. In front row from left are Natasha Hoffman and Mindy Scaggs, Legacy Group Real Estate. In back row are Chris Trowbridge, chamber director, Maverick Promotions; Rick Scaggs, Legacy Group Real Estate; Karen White, chamber secretary, Caliber Designs; and Emily Shipley, chamber president, North Webster Community Center. Photo provided by the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce.
Legacy Group Real Estate is May Member of the Month
The North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce congratulates Legacy Group Real Estate for being the May Member of the Month.
In 2017, after 35 years in customer service, sales, and leadership management, Mindy Scaggs earned her real estate license and began a new chapter in her career. By 2022, she founded Legacy Group Real Estate — a boutique brokerage built on the foundation of client-focused service, combining traditional values with cutting-edge technology and a genuine passion for cultivating lasting relationships.
“At Legacy Group Real Estate, relationships extend far beyond
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the closing table. Whether it’s recommending trusted contractors, launching a boat, connecting new residents with reliable babysitters, teaching the ins and outs of ‘lake life,’ or simply enjoying a cocktail on a new deck, Legacy Group is there. Creating an atmosphere of trust and forward-thinking service allows buyers to buy with confidence and sellers to sell with success,” said Mindy Scaggs, broker/ owner.
Natasha Hoffman, associate broker, is part of the Legacy Group Real Estate team, along with Rick Scaggs, pre-listing/property prep; Connie Jordan, staging assistant; and Christian Kunkler, pre-listing/
property prep assistant.
The Scaggs family has called the Barbee Chain of Lakes home for over 18 years. Their deep roots and hands-on experience make them true experts in the Barbee market. While the lake region remains the heart of its work, Legacy Group Real Estate serves clients across the entire state of Indiana.
The NWTTCC recognizes Legacy Group Real Estate for its commitment and volunteerism to the community.
Have a real estate question? Whether buying, selling, or just curious, call Mindy at (574) 529-3339 or Natasha Hoffman at (574) 2651277.
Garden Club met May 6
The Syracuse-Wawasee Garden Club met at the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, with 13 members and two guests attending. The guests, Betty Fervida and Maria Weaver, were from the Nappanee Garden Club.
Elaine Bokhart and Kathy Tittle provided a fun activity, which consisted of painting a garden label, or mod-podging a picture onto a wooden spoon which could then be used in a pot or the garden to mark a plant. They turned out really cute with a variety of designs.
The business meeting was called to order with the recitation of the Collect and Conservation Pledge. The Garden Club passed a motion to plant another red cedar tree at WACF for Arbor Day.
In civic beautification news, Elaine Bokart announced that the planting of the flower bed at Syracuse park is scheduled for Saturday, May 17. Pam Schumm reported that the hanging baskets are planted and will be delivered before Memorial Day.
Toby Oswald reported 16 flats of geraniums were sold this year.
A big thank you to the Syracuse and North Webster libraries for the donations of seed packets that were used at the Earth Day Festival booth held at WACF May 3. Nan Phillips, Jo Schwartz and Cindy Curtis ran the booth for the Garden Club. The kids as well as adults enjoyed planting either vegetables or flowers in ice cream cones.
Sue Kraft announced there were
three applicants who applied for a scholarship given by the club. After her recommendation and a unanimous vote, a recipient was decided upon.
Toby Oswald and Pam Schumm shared the highlights from the state convention they attended last month in Indianapolis. Tim Swinford of Fort Wayne was a keynote speaker sharing the history of Indiana from the ice age to present day. Toby and Pam were both installed as chairman at the state level for two groups. Other highlights included the district’s Jayne Kessler giving her presidential farewell speech and Wanda Zahrt (also from the district) being installed as the new president.
In new business, dates for upcoming district meetings were
shared, which is a great way to meet others in the district to learn what other clubs are doing. Pam Schumm mentioned that the club should consider applying for some of the state awards in the future. A list of possible ideas was given out and will be discussed at a future meeting. The club was very interested in the possibility of working with a youth garden club. More information will be forthcoming.
Toby Oswald presented Linda Harkleroad an award for “Plant Trees for Hope,” which was handed out at the state convention for planting three trees at Between the Lakes.
The next meeting will be Tuesday, June 3. The club will be taking a field trip to Flutterby Gardens in Claypool.
TREE PLANTING AWARD Toby Oswald, left, presented Linda Harkleroad an award for the “Plant Trees for Hope,” which was handed out at the state convention for planting three trees at Between the Lakes. Photo provided by the garden club.
Syracuse American Legion Riders to hold cruise-in May 23
It doesn’t matter what type of ride you have — hot rod, classic convertible, vintage pickup truck, a cool Harley-Davidson or a deckedout golf-cart — it’s welcome at the American Legion Riders Annual Cruise-In set for 4-8 p.m. Friday, May 23. There is no entry fee, no categories, no judging. Just an opportunity to come out and show off the big kids’ toys.
Randy Rinker, one of the organizers for the event, said if the weather is nice, 60-70 vehicles are expected to show up.
“Cruise-In ‘Cuse’ is alive and well with the American Legion Riders Post 223 in Syracuse,” said Randy Rinker, one of the ALR cruise-in’s
organizers.“The American Legion Riders are the backbone of this event. Without all of them, this would not be possible.”
In the past, the show has drawn some interesting vehicles. Last year, someone brought in a vintage Studebaker.
The event will take place at the Legion with vehicles on display on the access road from East Palm Drive to East Lynwood Drive.
The family-friendly event will include food, music and fun, including a 50/50 drawing where for $20 participants can get a car length of tickets and pick the car they want to use as the measuring stick.
There will be drawings for two,
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outdoor folding rocking chairs and tumblers. There will also be a raffle for a High Point 9mm handgun. The cruise-in always needs music.
The cruise-in is also the kickoff to Memorial Day weekend so members of the auxiliary will be out seeking donations for poppies.
The money raised from the event is used for scholarships, Toys 4 Tots, assisting local veterans and adopting local families with children at Christmas time.
PRIDE AND JOY This 1922 Studebaker two-passenger roadster “Special Six” is owned by Robert Studebaker of Syracuse. He’s brought the car to the
This year’s event will be from 4-8 p.m. Friday, May
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American Legion Riders Cruise-In the last few years.
23, at the American Legion Post in Syracuse. File photo.
H.E.L.P. and town
invite community to celebrate Pierceton’s new sidewalks
The Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program Kosciusko and the Town of Pierceton invite the community to a ribbon cutting event to celebrate new sidewalks in Pierceton.
The celebration will take place at 4 p.m. Thursday, May 29 at the corner of Third Street and Pierceton Elementary School. Parking will be available at the school.
“We are very pleased to see another project completed in Pierceton,” said Pierceton Town Council President Glenn Hall.
“The new sidewalk project was already in the works when I joined the council so it is always fulfilling to see these projects finished. The new sidewalk creates a safer environment for those walking to and from school and to the park. It is a beautiful addition to our town.”
The project spans the east side of Seventh Street, the south side of School Street, and the east side of Third Street. Improvements include the installation of six-foot-wide concrete sidewalks, ADA-compliant ramps, driveway enhancements, and seeding. In total, approximately 2,600 feet of new sidewalk was installed.
The need for this project was identified by a volunteer committee of local community mem-
bers participating in the H.E.L.P. program. And the project was supported and funded in part by the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs.
“This new sidewalk is more than just concrete, it’s a connection between our community and our children’s education,” said Whitko Community Schools Superintendent Amy Korus. “By providing a safe and accessible path to Pierceton Elementary, we’re investing in both safety and stronger ties between families and the heart of our town.”
The sidewalks will not only enhance the community by improving safety, the addition will encourage a more walkable, connected town where neighbors can interact, support local businesses, and experience a stronger sense of place.
“We’re thrilled to see this project come to life,” said Kosciusko County Community Coordinator Amy Roe. “These improvements make Pierceton safer and more walkable, and help foster a more vibrant place to live, work, and visit. We encourage anyone to join us for this celebration!”
For more updates on H.E.L.P. Kosciusko visit kcgov.com and follow HELP Kosciusko on Facebook @HELPKosciusko.
GRILLING UP THE RIBEYES Milford Fireman Corey Veach, right, loads a tray held by
with grilled ribeye steaks for the Milford Fire Department’s famous ribeye steak sandwiches. The men were busy manning the grill during last year’s Milford Lions Festival. File photo.
Milford Lions Festival kicks off Memorial Day weekend
The annual Milford Lions Festival is set for Saturday, May 24. This year’s festival takes place throughout downtown Milford.
The morning kicks off with the Milford Kiwanis Club serving its annual pancake and sausage breakfast at the Milford Community Building, taking place from 7-10 a.m.
As always, the carnival rides are free, sponsored by B.A.J.A. Entertainment. The rides will be in operation from noon to 8 p.m., and can be found up and down Main Street.
Numerous food vendors will be available throughout the day, although the most popular option is the ribeye steak sandwiches, prepared and served by the volunteers of the Milford Fire Department at the fire station, 214
S. Main St. They will start serving at 11 a.m. and continue until sold out. Plan to get there early to make sure you are not disappointed.
Other goodies that will be available include funnel cake, elephant ears and fried oreos as well as sausage sandwiches, burgers, fries and more.
The annual cruise-in takes place on Main Street, north of Catherine Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The car, truck and motorcycle show is sponsored by the Kosciusko Masonic Lodge No. 418.
The festival’s new royalty will be named at 2:45 p.m. as the 2025 senior king and queen are crowned on the downtown stage.
Live entertainment will be provided throughout the day on the stage, beginning at 10 a.m. with
Public Vet spay/neuter clinic for felines May 31
The next Public Vet Spay and Neuter Clinic for cats and kittens is being held Saturday, May 31. The clinic will be held at a new location. Information will be sent with registration confirmation.
Those interested are encouraged to register as soon as possible by going to the website, pub. vet/where-we-ll-be. Financial assistance is available. Call the medical line at (812) 412-2494 for more information.
Milford’s own Adrienne Frailey and John Gaut. Shawn Richards will take the stage at noon followed by the Spaniels Forever at 2 p.m. Quentin Flagg will take the stage at 4 p.m. and Big Daddy Dupree and the Broke and Hungry Blues Band will finish off the day at 6 p.m.
Barb Zimmerman, chairman of the festival’s planning committee, said most of the festival’s entertainment is from the region and performs frequently in the area.
“It’s nice to have such good local entertainers,” she said.
Come to the Milford Lions Festival to enjoy delicious food, fun games and rides and entertainment for the whole family. Be sure to check out the craft vendors and make some new memories in Milford.
Zimmerman noted the Milford Lions’ community outreach efforts have helped increase awareness and participation in the festival.
“By leveraging our connections and relationships within the community, the Milford Lions have been able to promote the event to a wider audience and generate more interest and support from local businesses and residents. They deserve a lot of credit,” Zimmerman said. “Our tireless efforts to spread the word about the festival have resulted in more attendees and a greater sense of community pride and unity.”
Planning for the festival takes an enormous amount of work.
Zimmerman said the committee will meet in June to discuss how the festival went and to start planning next year’s event with regular planning meetings started in late summer, early fall.
Adam Melton
‘Taps Across the Water’ — a moving Memorial Day tribute
The fifth annual “Taps Across the Water” tribute across Lake Webster, Lake Wawasee, Syracuse Lake, and Lake Papakeechie
will be Sunday, May 25.
This moving event honors U.S. military personnel, who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the country. Trumpeters and buglers stationed around the lakes perform a stunning echo cascading rendition of taps — a four-minute, multi-directional experience that resonates powerfully across the water.
“Taps Across the Water” creates a reverent, deeply memo-
rable moment for attendees and participants alike.
Led by Dr. Matt Murdock, an educator with ties to Indianapolis and North Webster, “Taps Across the Water” brings together nearly 40 musicians, including local veterans, community band members, high school students, music directors and professional trumpet players.
Inspired by Jari Villanueva’s “Taps Across America,” “Taps Across the Water” also raises awareness about the shortage of live trumpet players at military funerals.
“This gives students a meaningful way to connect with their community — both now and beyond graduation,” said Murdock.
North Webster Lake Schedule
6:15 p.m. Military service at the town park.
A brief service with live trumpet music and remarks, followed by a ceremonial salute from the North Webster American Legion Post 253 Honor Guard.
6:30 p.m. Listen for “Taps Across the Water.”
Hear the echoing taps from the town park, your pier, boat, or aboard the Dixie Sternwheeler as
New Paris celebrates Memorial Day May 25
The annual New Paris Community Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony is Sunday, May 25.
New Paris will remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation. It is hosted by the New Paris Chamber of Commerce and the New Paris Boy Scouts Troop 12.
The parade steps off at 2 p.m. from Main and Market streets and will proceed to the New Paris/Jackson Township Cemetery. Any participants who wish to be in the parade are welcome and encouraged.
The ceremony begins at approximately 2:15 p.m. at the New Paris/Jackson Township Cemetery.
This year’s ceremony will feature a keynote address by State Rep. David Abbott. Abbott and his wife, Lori, are Gold Star Parents.
New Paris Boy Scouts Troop
12 will present and raise the colors. The Goshen Veterans Honor Guard will provide the rifle salute. A flyover is planned, weather permitting. New Paris will be honoring the families of veterans who have passed in the year preceding.
A complimentary, community ice cream social will be held immediately following the ceremo-
ny at Sunnyside Park pavilion; sugar-free, gluten-free, and nutfree cookies and ice cream options will be available.
In case of severe weather, the parade will be canceled and the ceremony will be moved to Grace Bible Baptist Church. Visit facebook.com/share/12JDyAunAeT for the latest up to date information.
Local students named to dean’s list
The following local students were recently named to the dean’s list of their respective colleges/universities: Goshen College Leesburg — Caden Josey Warsaw — Jessica Brito, An-
gelica Garcia-Ponce, Bennett Silveus, IsabeI Woodcox Bob Jones University Wakarusa — Wesley Gay Southern New Hampshire University Warsaw — Madeline Silveus
it launches in sync with the tribute.
7:05 p.m. Trumpet concert.
Enjoy a 20-minute trumpet performance at the town park following “Taps Across the Water.”
Wawasee, Syracuse And Papakeechie Schedule
8:10 p.m. Trumpet ensemble concert at Oakwood gazebo.
A patriotic concert sets the tone for the evening before musicians head to their designated pier locations around the lakes.
Presented by Chautauqua-Wawasee and American Legion Post 223.
9 p.m. Moment of silence.
Mark Knecht, Chautauqua-Wawasee board president, said, “In addition to notifying the community, we alert the lakefront restaurants about the timing of the event and propose that guests observe one minute of silence before the starting of the Taps.”
9:09 p.m. Listen for “Taps Across the Water.”
Taps will echo across all three lakes.
“Every year, people plan for this moment. Wind can affect the sound, but the impact is always powerful,” said Karen Kroemer, event organizer.
Tips For Attending Taps Across The Water In Syracuse Listen from your pier, boat or designated public viewing locations:
• The bridge by the Channel Marker.
• The public boat launch.
• Oakwood Resort.
For a full list of pier locations and maps of bugler locations on Wawasee and Syracuse lakes, follow Chautauqua-Wawasee on Facebook.
For more information, visit chautauquawawasee.org/2025taps-across-the-water-a-movingmemorial-day-tribute.
Learn about healthy shoreline practices, grant funding at free workshop
The Watershed Foundation and Indiana Department of Natural Resources will offer a free workshop about healthy shorelines from 5:30-7 p.m. Thursday, June 12 at the Winona Lake Senior Center.
This workshop will introduce lake property owners to shoreline restoration practices that reduce erosion and runoff, improve habitat, and protect water quality without sacrificing natural beauty or recreational access.
Participants will learn about alternatives to concrete seawalls, including glacial stone and native plants, as well as shoreline zoning, IDNR permitting requirements, and grant funding available for eligible shoreline projects.
Speakers include:
• Lyn Crighton, The Watershed Foundation.
• Madison Johnson, IDNR Division of Fish & Wildlife.
• Jordan Smithers, IDNR Division of Water.
• Nate Thomas, IDNR Lake & River Enhancement.
An optional tour of the healthy shoreline project at Winona Lake Limitless Park will follow.
The event is free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged. Register at tinyurl.com/ Healthy-Shorelines-25
What Are Healthy Shorelines?
While traditional mowed lawns and concrete seawalls have long been the accepted norm, they aren’t natural or healthy for our lakes. They decrease plant life and animal habitat along the shoreline, create added wave action, and contribute to erosion, algae growth, muck, and waning fish populations – among other problems.
Healthy shorelines combine rock seawalls and native plants both on the land and in the water. Bioengineered and glacial stone seawalls help slow wave action, stabilize the shoreline, promote aquatic plant growth, and provide habitat for aquatic creatures. Lake-friendly landscaping includes native plants that slow runoff, filter pollutants, and reduce erosion – among other benefits. With proper planning, natural shorelines can be beautiful and low-maintenance, and they don’t interfere with recreation.
Grants Available For Healthy Shoreline Projects On All Lakes In The Upper Tippecanoe Watershed Through its Healthy Shorelines Initiative, TWF provides grant assistance of up to $1,200 to homeowners for shoreline projects that reduce runoff and erosion and improve water quality and habitat.
Healthy Shorelines projects have included stone re-facing of con-
new glacial stone seawall and native
crete seawalls, bioengineered seawalls, glacial stone seawalls, and more.
In order to be eligible, the project site must be located on a lake located in the Upper Tippecanoe River Watershed, and the appli-
cant must contribute at least 25% of the total project cost.
Grant applications are due by Aug. 1.
Healthy Shorelines grant applications, information, and other resources can be found at water-
shedfoundation.org/our-work/implement/healthy-shorelines/ For more information, or to find out if your project is eligible, contact The Watershed Foundation at office@watershedfoundation.org or (574) 834-3242.
‘Smartphone and Tablet Basics’ offered for adults
Purdue Extension will be offering a two-session educational program designed to help adults gain confidence and proficiency in using smartphones and tablets.
The “Smartphone and Tablet Basics” program will provide participants with essential knowledge to effectively navigate and maximize the use of their mobile devices.
The program is specifically tailored to adults who may be unfamiliar with mobile technology or those looking to refresh their skills. Participants will learn how to:
• Navigate device settings and features.
• Maintain and use password management.
• In-case of emergency contacts.
• How to connect to Wi-Fi.
• Download and manage apps.
• Use communication tools, such as text messaging, emails and video calls.
• Safely browse the internet and protect their personal information online.
• Camera basics.
The “Smartphone and Tablet Basics” program will be led by Purdue Extension Health and Human Sciences educator Shannon Shepherd at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 27, and June 3, at the Warsaw Community Public Library, 310 E. Main St., Warsaw.
“With smartphones and tablets becoming integral to daily life, it’s essential that everyone, regard-
less of their experience level, has the knowledge and skills to use them confidently,” said Shepherd. “This program is designed to make technology more accessible and empower participants to take full advantage of the many tools and resources available at their fingertips.”
There is no cost to attend the program, but pre-registration is required to ensure adequate materials and space. To register or for more information, call the extension office at (574) 372-2340.
If you are in need of accommodations, an interpreter or translator to attend the program, contact Shepherd by calling (574) 3722340 or sending an email to shephe52@purdue.edu.
North Manchester Legion plans Memorial Day ceremony
The American Legion Post No. 286, Eel River, is planning for several upcoming events beginning with its Memorial Day ceremony.
The ceremony will start at 9:45 a.m. Monday, May 26, at Holderman Park, North Manchester, and includes a full schedule of patriotic music, prayers and more until the event’s conclusion at 11:25 a.m.
The guest speaker will be Rex Tharp, who will also sing “America the Beautiful.” Pastor JP Freeman will offer the invo-
cation and the benediction. Gee Gee Tharp will recite “Flanders Field.” The color guard and local Boy Scouts also will participate, and there will be a recitation of the names of fallen local veterans.
After Memorial Day, summer events continue for Post 286. In June, members of the post will meet to help clean up trash along a highway. After the cleanup, participants will gather back at the post for hamburgers, hot dogs and drinks.
American Legion Riders
Chapter 286 will hold its 10th annual Charity Bike Show Friday, June 13.
The show will take place in the parking lot at the American Legion, 215 E. Main St., North Manchester.
Visitors can expect to see touring, custom, trike, sport and vintage motorcycles. Trophies will be awarded for the various classes, and a director’s choice award will be presented.
Registration will take place from 1-5 p.m. and winners will be announced at 7:30 p.m.
In addition, there will be a kayak raffle as well as events for children.
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.
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Window And Door Trim
Kids ages 12 and younger are invited to decorate their bikes and compete for first- and second-place trophies. Children also will have a chance to win a bicycle. From 1-6:30 p.m., kids may enter their names in the bicycle giveaway, and a winner will be selected at 7 p.m. Children must be present to win.
Window And Door Trim
Ceilings
Stairways
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Garage And Workshop Floors And Walls
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Great Service – Reasonable Rates References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075
HEALTHY SHORELINE A 2019 Healthy Shorelines project at Winona Lake Limitless Park included a
plant buffer. Photo provided by The Watershed Foundation.
Kosciusko County Fair Queen Pageant
The Kosciusko County Fair is now accepting applications for its 2025 Fair Queen Pageant.
This year’s theme, “Reaching for the Stars,” invites young women from Kosciusko County and surrounding areas to showcase their poise, communication skills and drive to inspire others in the upcoming pageant, while also participating in a series of workshops to help build confidence and leadership skills.
The pageant features two age divisions: teen (ages 13–17) and miss (ages 18–21). Eligibility is not limited to 4-H members, and there is no talent or swimsuit competition.
The Kosciusko County Fair Queen title is marking more than 65 years. Scholarships are awarded to the queen and her court, with contestants evaluated in five key categories: personal interview, evening gown with on-stage question, professional wear, personal expression and a one-minute prepared speech on a topic of their choosing.
The newly-crowned Miss Kosciusko County Fair Queen will go on to represent the
county at the 2026 Indiana State Fair Queen Pageant.
An expectations meeting for all contestants will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 21, in the Shrine Building at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds, 1400 E. Smith St., Warsaw.
All contestants are encouraged to attend a series of workshops held at the Shrine Building to prepare for various elements of the competition:
• May 28 — Poise/Stage: 6-7
p.m.
• June 4 — Interview and Speech: 6-7 p.m.
• June 13 — Rehearsal: 6-8
p.m.
The 2025 Kosciusko County Fair Queen Pageant will take place at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 14, in the Shrine Building. All contestants must also participate in the Kosciusko County Community Fair Parade Sunday, July 6, marking the official opening of the fair.
Applications are available now online at kcfair.com, may be picked up in person at the Kosciusko County Fair Office (open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday), or requested via email. All required doc-
uments — including signed forms, head shots and speech — must be submitted in hard copy by Friday, June 6. Electronic submissions will not be accepted.
For more information or to request an application, contact
Secretary of state warns Hoosiers of phishing scam
Secretary of State Diego Morales is urging Hoosiers to remain vigilant of phishing attempts currently circulating via emails reported across the state. These phishing emails may appear official but are designed to mislead recipients into clicking on malicious links or sharing sensitive information. These messages are not legitimate and appear to come from a sender impersonating a state-affiliated source, such as “txtag” or other entities. Be advised and:
• Do not click on any links or attachments within these suspicious emails.
• Delete the message immediately.
”We are working diligently with the State Office of Technology to investigate and block further attacks. These scams are dangerous, deceptive and disruptive. I want to remind all Hoosiers to be cautious before opening emails and clicking on any unsolicited links, especially those that request personal information or
direct you to unfamiliar websites. Your security is our top priority,” said Diego Morales, Indiana’ s secretary of state. At this point, there’s no indication that these phishing emails are imitating emails from its office, but emails are going to individuals/entities that engage with its office. Hoosiers who receive suspicious emails should avoid clicking any links or downloading attachments. The Indiana Office of Technology is aware of the situation and is monitoring closely.
Educational program: ‘Keeping Track of your Medical Information’
Purdue Extension Porter County Health and Human Science Educator Annetta Jones will be presenting the educational program, “Keeping Track of your Medical Information” at noon Wednesday, May 28, at the Home and Family Arts Building, located on the Kosciusko Fairgrounds, 1400 E. Smith St., Warsaw.
Health information is deliv-
Local students named to president’s list
The following local students were recently named to the president’s list of their respective colleges/universities: Bob Jones University
Nappanee — Ashlyn Feller
Southern New Hampshire University
Bourbon — Diamond Soriano, Hayley Christ
Leesburg — Olivia Kitson
Mentone — Zachary Landis
Milford — Alexandria Sikes
ered to you from a variety of sources. Your wearable device can provide daily updates of your health. You also receive valuable information verbally from your health care provider, patient portals, insurance company and pharmacy. By creating a personal health record, you can consolidate your information into usable and accessible information, which will help
you manage your health. Register by Wednesday, May 21, by calling the Kosciusko Extension office at (574) 372-2340.
If you are in need of accommodations to attend this program or need an interpreter or translator, contact Annetta Jones prior to the meeting at (219) 465-3555 or email her at ajones1@purdue.edu by May 21.
pageant coordinator Jeanette Wood at jeanette@kcfair.org.
Additional updates and announcements are available on Facebook at Miss Kosciusko County Fair Queen and Instagram @koscountyfairpageant.
Key Dates
• Expectations meeting: 6
p.m. Wednesday, May 21.
• Workshops: 6 p.m. Wednesdays, May 28 and June 4.
• Pageant rehearsal: 6 p.m. Friday, June 13.
• Application deadline: Friday, June 6 (hard copy only).
• Pageant night: 7 p.m. Saturday, June 14.
QUEEN AND HER COURT Shown is the 2024 Miss Kosciusko County fair queen together with her court. From left are Millie Ohneck, first runner-up; Jordyn Leininger, Miss Kosciusko County fair queen; Jasmine Fuller, second runner-up; and Olivia Fuller, third runner-up. InkFreeNews file photo.
Threads of Valor ceremony honors eight veterans
By PHOEBE MUTHART Staff Writer
The 19th annual Threads of Valor ceremony honored eight veterans Tuesday, May 13, at the senior center in Warsaw.
The quilts were made by Liberty Sewing Circle.
A medley of patriotic songs was sung by the Kosciusko County Purdue Extension Choir.
The American Legion Post 49 of Warsaw presented the flag followed by the singing of the national anthem.
A benediction by given by Ken Locke, the Salvation Army envoy.
The veterans honored are:
• Mark Curry, of Syracuse and a Wawasee High School graduate, Army and National Guard, who served from 1983 to 1991 and 1984 to 1991.
• Jerry P. Hogan, of Warsaw, who served in the Marines from 1973 to 1979 and is a U.S. Naval Academy graduate.
• John Lee Klotz of Nappanee, who served in the Army from 1968 to 1970 and was in Vietnam for 12 months.
• William Lee Metz of Warsaw, who served in the Navy from 1969 to 1972.
• Diana Price of Pierceton, who served in the Army Reserves from 1992 to 2000 and is co-owner of Price Auto Service in Milford.
• Garry Lee Sturdevant of Warsaw, who served in the Army from 1968 to 1969.
• Larry McCullough of Albion, formerly of Syracuse, who served in the Navy from 1972 to 1976.
One veteran, Larry Dean Dull, was not present.
Speaking were David Neff, director of Kosciusko County Senior Services; Darren Vogt, a representative from Sen. Jim Banks’ office; Warsaw Mayor Jeff Grose; Mike Murphy of Bowen Health; and Darryl McDowell, veteran service officer for the county.
Following the quilt presentations to all the veterans, a lunch and dessert was served.
To nominate someone for a quilt, visit Liberty Sewing Circle’s Facebook page or call the senior center at (574) 267-2012 or (574) 267-4648.
Memorial Day events to take place in Kosciusko County
The following Kosciusko County communities are preparing for Memorial Day weekend celebrations.
Etna Green
A service will be held at noon Sunday, May 25, at East Cemetery. All veterans and active servicemen and women are welcome and are asked to assemble at 11:30 a.m. As part of the ceremony, there will be a role call of those who served and what cemetery they are interred in. Those attending are asked to bring a lawn chair to enjoy the service.
Leesburg
The Leesburg community will be having a Memorial Day parade and service at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 26.
There will be a flag raising before the parade at town hall. The parade will proceed from the town hall south on Pearl Street then west on Prairie Street to the Leesburg Cemetery. The memorial service will follow the parade.
All veterans willing to ride in the parade should be at town hall by 10:15 a.m. All other partici-
pants should be in place by 10:15 a.m. as well.
In case of rain, the memorial service will be held inside the Leesburg Lions Club Community Building at 10:30 a.m. Mentone
The Lawrence D. Bell Aircraft Museum and Mentone Chamber of Commerce will host the annual Memorial Day program at 2 p.m. Sunday, May 25, at Mentone Cemetery. In case of bad weather, the event will be moved to the Bell Museum.
Milford
Milford will host its annual Memorial Day parade Monday, May 26. Lineup will begin at 9 a.m. with the parade stepping off at 10 a.m. sharp. A ceremony will be held after the parade in Milford Cemetery. Milford Kiwanis Club will also be hosting its annual Memorial Day chicken sale at the community building.
Millersburg
Zion Church will have a service at 1 p.m. Sunday, May 25 at Brown Cemetery. Nappanee
Nappanee will host a parade at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 26, with a Memorial Day ceremony following immediately afterward.
The parade will step off at Nappanee Elementary School, proceeding west on Centennial Street to SR 19, south on SR 19 to Lincoln Street, then west on Lincoln Street to city hall.
A Memorial Day service will take place at 11 a.m. on the south lawn of Nappanee City Hall.
New Paris
The annual New Paris Community Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony is Sunday, May 25. It is hosted by the New Paris Chamber of Commerce and the New Paris Boy Scouts, Troop 12.
The parade steps off at 2 p.m. from Main and Market streets and will proceed to the New Paris/Jackson Township Cemetery. Any participants who wish to be in the parade are welcome and encouraged.
The ceremony begins at approximately. 2:15 p.m. at the New Paris/ Jackson Township Cemetery.
This year’s ceremony will feature a keynote address by State Rep. David Abbott, a Gold Star Parent.
New Paris Boy Scouts, Troop 12 will present and raise the colors.
The Goshen Veterans Honor Guard will provide a rifle salute. A flyover is planned, weather permitting.
The ceremony includes honoring the families of veterans who have passed in the year preceding.
In case of severe weather, the parade will be canceled and the ceremony will be moved to Grace Bible Baptist Church North Webster
The American Legion’s honor guard will hold Memorial Day ceremonies at 8 a.m. at Oswego Cemetery; 8:30 a.m. at Thorn Cemetery; 9 a.m. at Salem Cemetery; 9:30 a.m. at Oak Grove Cemetery; 10 a.m. at Mock Cemetery; and 10:30 a.m. at Post 253.
The parade will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, May 26, with a ceremony in North Webster Cemetery at 11:15 a.m.
Immediately following the ceremony in the cemetery, the North Webster Community Center is hosting an all-American cookout for veterans and their guests at noon.
Pierceton
Pierceton will host a parade at 10:45 a.m. Monday, May 26. The parade will start at the fire station and travel to Brower Park were a ceremony will take place.
Silver Lake
A ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 24, at Lakeview Cemetery, Silver Lake. The event is sponsored by the Silver Lake Lions Club.
Syracuse Syracuse will have a Memorial Day parade at 1:30 p.m. Monday, May 26. The parade will step off at Medusa Street, travel north on SR 13, turning onto Main Street and ending at Syracuse Cemetery where a brief ceremony will be held.
During the ceremony, Pat Parks, retired naval officer and pastor of Wawasee Heights Baptist Church, will be the featured speaker. Food will be served back at the Legion afterward; the public is welcome.
Warsaw
A service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 26, at the Preacher’s Stand at Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw, with The American Legion Post 49. Music will begin at 10:30 a.m. and the program is scheduled for 11 a.m.
THREADS OF VALOR The 19th annual Threads of Valor ceremony honored eight veterans Tuesday, May 13, at the senior center in Warsaw. Each were given a quilt made by the Liberty Sewing Circle. In front row from left are William Metz, Diana Price, Gary Sturdevant and Larry McCullough. In the back row are Mark Curry, Jerry Hogan and John Klotz. Photo by Phoebe Muthart.
Grace College seniors awarded for excellence in student teaching
Four seniors from Grace College’s School of Education were recently honored for excellence in student teaching: Annie Lundy, Haley Carson, Izabella Burke and Avery Samms.
“These ladies exemplify the excellence, both in and out of the classroom, of Grace College graduates,” said Cheryl Bremer, dean of the School of Education at Grace College. “We are very proud of the effort they put into their student teaching and education.”
Each school year, the School of Education selects students who demonstrate excellence as student teachers. Recipients are awarded a plaque and recognition for their achievements in the classroom.
Annie Lundy was named the Outstanding Prospective Elementary Education Teacher.
According to Lundy, Grace’s program played a huge role in preparing her for student teaching third-graders at Mentone Elementary School.
“One of the most important things I learned at Grace was the value of differentiation — how to meet each student’s unique needs throughout a lesson,” said Lundy. “The program emphasized putting students first. So I learned how to build rapport with students, incorporate their interests and hobbies into my teaching, and reach learners at all levels of readiness.”
This fall, Lundy will continue to teach at Mentone Elementary School, this time as a fourthgrade teacher.
“This is especially meaningful because I’ll have the opportunity to continue working with many of the same students I taught in third grade,” said Lundy. “This continuity will allow me to
build even deeper relationships with my students and support their growth more intentionally throughout the year.”
Haley Carson, Etna Green, was named the Outstanding Prospective Special Education Teacher.
Carson realized her knack for teaching while leading camps and Sunday school classes at her church. But she found her love for special education at Grace.
“I will never forget being placed in a self-contained classroom for my Emotional Behaviors and Disorders class and saying that I would never teach in a self-contained setting,” said Carson. “God works in funny ways, as I am now teaching half day in a self-contained classroom for students with emotional and behavioral disorders, and I wouldn’t change a single thing about my job.”
Since graduating in December, Carson has worked at Milford Elementary as the K-3 special education teacher and at Wawasee Community Schools in the elementary Behavioral Readiness and Individualized Growth in Education program.
“These students have stretched me and made me more confident in teaching and working with challenging students,” said Carson. “We don’t always understand God’s plans and timing, but I am sure that I have seen God’s work in my job placement and those that I work with.”
Izabella Burke, Hillsdale, Mich., was named Outstanding Prospective Secondary Education Teacher.
Although Burke knew she wanted to pursue education for a long time, her decision to major in secondary social studies education came at the last
moment. According to Burke, student teaching confirmed she made the right choice.
“Student teaching was one of the best experiences of my life,” said Burke. “I learned so much and had the best time being an eighth-grade teacher. Bonding with the students was truly life-changing.”
Burke recently accepted a seventh-grade world history position at PATH School in Indianapolis, a public K-8 charter school. She aspires to earn a master’s degree to become “a teacher for future teachers.”
“Just like what I experienced here at Grace College, I would love to be that for someone else,”
said Burke. “Someday, I hope to be at least half as good as the incredible Dr. Laurie Owen and wise Professor Gilmer.”
Finally, Avery Samms, of Dublin, Ohio, was named Outstanding Prospective Reading Teacher.
Samms credits her mom and grandmothers for exposing her to the field of teaching from a young age. She also thanks several educators who affirmed her calling along the way. “My first-grade teacher, Miss Taylor, my high school teacher, Mrs. Andrews, as well as my French teacher, Madame Heaton, were all influential figures who helped foster the desire to teach
within me,” said Samms.
After working alongside a cooperating teacher Samms calls “nothing short of amazing,” Samms has accepted a position teaching kindergarten at Indian Run Elementary in her hometown of Dublin.
“It has been a joy to see my students and their smiles every day,” said Samms of her student teaching experience. “I hope to continue pouring into students and making a difference in little lives for years to come.”
To learn more about Grace College’s School of Education, visit grace.edu/academics/undergraduate/academic-schools-departments/school-of-education.
NEW TEACHERS Four seniors from Grace College were recently honored for excellence in student teaching. Pictured from left are Haley Carson, Avery Samms, Annie Lundy and Izabella Burke. Photo provided by Grace College.
O bituaries
Shane Alan Nickerson Great Mechanic
Shane Alan Nickerson, 53, Milford, passed away Thursday, May 1, 2025, at the Waters of Syracuse.
Born Oct. 8, 1971, in Mishawaka, Shane was the son of Albert L. Nickerson and Cathy (Bollman) Moody.
Shane had one son, Jacob Nickerson, and a stepson, Andrew Ketham. Shane was passionate about making baits, fishing, hunting and especially coon hunting. He enjoyed going to auctions, cooking, slot car racing, watching movies, listening to old school rock music and cars and trucks, but there was no greater joy for him than spending time with his grandchildren. He was a wonderful grandfather and his grandchildren will always cherish the memories he made with them.
Robert Charles Stone Former Ligonier Physician
Robert Charles Stone passed away peacefully in his home Tuesday, May 13, 2025. He was surrounded by the many women of his family — the bane and greatest blessing of his life.
DR. ROBERT C. STONE
John Emery
John Emery, 79, formerly of Warsaw, died Monday, May 12, 2025 at McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital, Petoskey, Mich.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.
Merl Poling
Merl Poling, 95, Chapman Lake, Warsaw, died Thursday, May 15, 2025.
Shane was known for being a great mechanic, his sense of humor and how he made everyone laugh. He had a huge heart and cared very much for his family and those around him. Shane was a big man with a soul to go right along with his stature. He touched so many lives and made positive impacts everywhere he went. He was truly a good man and will forever take up residence in the hearts of all of us. We love you, Shane, and we look forward to the day when we can be reunited once again in our Lord’s house.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” — Jeremiah 29:11
Shane’s memory will forever be remembered by his loved ones. He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Cathy and Tom Moody, Milford; son, Jacob (Amanda) Nickerson, Warsaw; grandchildren, Dillon and Maggie Nickerson, Warsaw; sisters, Amy (Matt) McFarland, Warsaw, and Tina Nickerson, Nappanee; stepbrother, Rob (Tammie) Yarger, Wheatfield; stepsister, Tracy Schultz, Valparaiso; aunt, Carol (Eric) Botset, Nappanee; uncle, Brad Bollman, Bristol; and lots of nieces and nephews.
Shane was preceded in death by his stepson, Andrew Ketcham; grandparents, Francis (Fritz) and Delores Bollman; uncle, Steve Bollman; and brother, Jody (Joe) Nickerson.
Services will be held Friday, May 9, at Mishler Funeral Home, Milford. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Funeral services will start at 2 p.m. Burial will take place following the service at Union Center Cemetery.
For those who would like to honor the memory of Shane Nickerson, contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. SHANE ALAN NICKERSON
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Bob, or Doc Rock as he was affectionately known, was born June 25, 1929, on the family strawberry farm southeast of Marion in Grant County. He was the 11th of 13 children born to Fayetta and Charles Henry Stone. Doc was always surrounded by women, starting with nine sisters and continuing with his wife and three daughters, and then his four granddaughters. Finally, in more recent years, he gained sons-in-law, grandsons-in-law and four great-grandsons.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, all of his siblings and their spouses and a daughter, Susan Marie Stone. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Lura Gibson Stone; and two daughters, Roberta Stone and Jean (Pete) Ness; and his four granddaughters, who brought great joy to his life: Jaime (Lyle) Cunningham, Jessica (Chad) Lemler, JoAnna (Sam Stepter) Ness and Celeste (Sam Tallo) Marshall. After all of these girls, he was elated to have four great-grandsons, Lee and Drew Cunningham and Colt and Barrett Lemler.
Doc attended Marion High School, Ball State University and Indiana University Medical School. He served in the Navy during the Korean War aboard an ammunition ship from 1951-1953.
Doc met Lura at Indiana University and they married during his medical training following her graduation from the School of Education. Upon completion of his medical degree, they relocated to Ligonier and bought the practice of Dr. Weber. At first, he saw patients in Goshen, LaGrange and Kendallville Hospitals, which was about a 100-mile circuit. Later, he concentrated on Goshen Hospital. It was not unusual for him to deliver babies early in his practice, and some of these even took place in homes.
He was one of two doctors in Ligonier, so he got to know many community members across multiple generations. He felt it was his privilege to serve the community and did many, many sports physicals.
One of his favorite community service accomplishments was organizing a county-wide polio vaccination effort. One Sunday, multiple sites and several doctors coordinated to offer free (or free-will donation) vaccinations. He’d been horrified by treating children in Iron Lungs in Indianapolis during his training and wanted to make sure to protect the children of his community.
In addition to his medical practice, Dr. Stone served as the Ligonier health officer and Noble County health officer. He was a member of the Ligonier United Methodist Church and the Ligonier Rotary Club. He was honored by Gov. Frank O’Bannon as a Sagamore of the Wabash. He also received a Quality of Care Award by Pfizer Pharmaceuticals and Citizen of the Year by the Ligonier Chamber of Commerce. In his spare time, he enjoyed his hobbies of making horseshoe nail crosses, fishing, golfing and woodworking, either in peaceful solitude or amongst the camaraderie of his many friends.
A celebration of Doc’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 24, at the Mount building of the Ligonier United Methodist Church, 466 Townline Road, Ligonier.
Family and friends will be received from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday, May 23, at the Mount building of the Ligonier United Methodist Church. There will also be visitation from 10-11 a.m. prior to the service Saturday at the Mount.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for memorials to be directed to the Community Foundation of Noble County, Susan Marie Stone Scholarship Fund or to the Ligonier United Methodist Church.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.
Juanita Hall Wagner
Juanita Louise Hall Wagner, 83, Warsaw, died Monday, May 12, 2025, in her home.
Arrangements are currently pending at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, Warsaw.
B
irths
Alaina Grace Stutzman
Karl and Suetta (Nisley) Stutzman, Nappanee, are the parents of a daughter, Alaina Grace, born May 9, 2025, at home. She weighed 7 pounds, 15.69 ounces.
Kendall Robert Plank
Matthew and Ruby (Yoder) Plank, Bourbon, are the parents of a son, Kendall Robert, born at 8:41 p.m. May 10, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 8 pounds, 1 ounce, and was 19 inches long.
Dawson Lee Yoder
Joas and Stacy (Herschberger) Yoder, Nappanee, are the parents of a son, Dawson Lee, born at 1:53 a.m. May 11, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 6 pounds, 13 ounces, and was 20 inches long.
Ensley Eileen Miller
Joas and Janice (Miller) Miller, Bremen, are the parents of daughter, Ensley Eileen, born at 8:49 p.m. May 12, 2025. She weighed 8 pounds, 5 ounces. Joshua Luke Schmucker
Merle and Marie (Miller) Schmucker, Leesburg, are the parents of a son, Joshua Luke, born at 3:52 a.m. May 13, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 6 pounds, 11 ounces, and was 18 inches long.
Brandon Joe Miller
Lynn and Dorothy (Schwartz) Miller, Nappanee, are the parents of a son, Brandon Joe, born at 7:33 p.m. May 13, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 7 pounds, 5 ounces, and was 19 inches long.
Joetta Sue Hochstetler
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John and Nora (Hochstetler) Hochstetler, Wakarusa, are the parents of a daughter, Joetta Sue, born at 8:59 p.m. May 13, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 5 pounds, 5 ounces, and was 17 inches long.
Claudia Rose Brovont
Loren and Lori (Callaway) Brovont, Silver Lake, are the parents of a daughter, Claudia Rose, born at 8:37 a.m. May 14, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 8 pounds, 1 ounce, and was 19 3/4 inches long.
Claudia joins four siblings: Lewis, Bentley, Tate and Jed.
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:
CL Benz Co. LLC v. Stephanie Adams, $2,755.64
AAA Acceptance Corp. v. Allison Borrero-Cintron, $1,338.37; v. Racheal Busz, $4,504.61; v. Ryan Davidson, $860.80; v. Cheyanne Lewis, $4,643.33; v. Vincent Marino, $2,317.10; v. Anthony Upchurch, $4,071.56; v. Renee S. Wood, $3,631.15
Money Matters Professional Collections LLC v.Mae L. Collier, $1,863.79; v. Christopher Garcia, $1,260.75; v. Earl F. Jacquay Jr., $729.19; v. Alaina R. Schultz, $1,739.34
Warsaw Health System LLC, d/b/a Kosciusko Community Hospital v. Tyler Fox, $5,259.35
Snow and Sauerteig LLP v. Devin Kneller, $2,659.98
Rockhill Pinnick LLP v. Deybrean Yoder, $1,222.62
Civil Collections
The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler presiding:
HS Financial Group LLC, a/a/o assignee of Consumer Portfolio Services Inc. v. Brandy Black, a/k/a Brandy M. Black, Brandy M. Prater, $18,438.82
Bank of America NA v. Michael Glen Bowers, $4,217.84; v. Michael Glen Bowers, $4,225.64
Prestige Financial Services Inc. v. Jared Brumfield, $21,248.52; v. Anthony Dooley, $43,376.10
Midland Credit Management Inc. v. Amber Chavez, $955.76; v. Danielle Chesher, $3,883.31; v. Christopher Garcia, $1,260.75; v. John Waters Sr., $1,261.67
Bippus State Bank v. Amber K. Cripe, Tanner M. Cripe, $16,767.05
Glenbrook Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Tiffany D. Hale, $14,201.61
Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Christopher Howard, Alex Sielesnew, $12,126.50
Cavalry SPV I LLC v. Melissa Knisely, $3,495.78
LVNV Funding LLC v. Christopher R. Logenbaugh, $2,790.29; v. Pamela Mast, $6,687.81
Interra Credit Union v. Jason Mezra, a/k/a Mia Jane Mezera, $14,595.75
Discover Bank v. Jose A. Pagan, $7,425.30
Synchrony Bank v. Justin J. Rater, $4,300.30
Capital One NA v. Alejandro Roque, $1,866.30
Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Blake Sellers, $21,222.68
Credit Service International v. Heather Wilson, $867.40 Plenaries
The following plenaries have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court I, Judge Karin McGrath presiding:
Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance, a/s/o McNees v. Kimberly Hernandez, $1,787.23
Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance, a/s/o Eldridge v. Diego Rodriguez Romero, $1,332.04 Evictions
The following evictions have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court
III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: FR Syracuse v. Daniela Espinoza, $827.18; v. Eric Haines, $3,286.56 Michelle Worley v. Bill Hackworth, Sasha Hollett, $1,300 Mortgage Foreclosures
The following mortgage foreclosure has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Carrington Mortgage Services LLC v. Tina Hall, $101,167.80 Superior Court III
The following fines for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Speeding — Shaday Cuahuizo-Zaca, Warsaw, $164.50; Terry A. Dove, Leesburg, $164.50; Jack D. Cowan, Syracuse, $164.50; Foy E. Spicer, North Manchester, $164.50; Pedro R. Sarabia, Warsaw, $164.50; James W. Ocran, Warsaw, $164.50; Carter G. McGillem, Warsaw, $164.50; Kevin M. Barnett, Milford, $164.50; v. Trevor L. Lutes, Nappanee, $164.50; Nancy Y. Beltran, Pierceton, $164.50; v. Leo Olvera, Warsaw, $164.50; Jean F. Courtois, Winona Lake, $164.50; v. Ulises I. Jimenez Ramirez, Akron, $164.50; Leila G. Knepp, Warsaw, $164.50; v. William L. Cuban, Winona Lake, $164.50; James G. Lancaster, Winona Lake, $164.50
No operator’s license in possession — Jared A. Stephens, Mentone, $164.50; Karen S. Jeffrey, Milford, $164.50
Disregarding stop sign — Matthew F. Niebur, Leesburg, $164.50; Roger J. Coleman II, Syracuse, $164.50; Billy N. Sisk, Claypool, $164.50; Kiersten M. Gagnon, Warsaw, $164.50; Tyson R. Kay, Warsaw, $164.50
Failure of occupant to use a safety belt — Camilo Cordero, Warsaw, $25; Jennifer L. Meinika, Bourbon, $25; Charles L. Renschler, Pierceton, $25; Brandon T. Eads, Claypool, $25; Jose Cupertinoa Benjami Cardona Ramirez, Warsaw, $25; Cruz Jeremias Cardona-Ramirez, Warsaw, $25
Operating with expired plates — Akhil Vazhayil, Warsaw, $164; Shiloh Lee Steiner, Warsaw, $164; Jennifer M. Meadway, Bourbon, $164.50
Driving while suspended, suspension not result of conviction — Jessica M. Watson, Warsaw, $189.50; Dylan M. Powell, Warsaw, $189.50
Passing a stopped school bus when stop arm is out and activated Brandon J. Lopez, Warsaw, $189.50
Littering — Ismael Garcia, Warsaw, $239
Holding or using a telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle — Brittany C. Hart, Silver Lake, $164.50
Learner’s permit violation — Tony A. Wallace, Warsaw, $164.50; Tony Alan Wallace Jr., Warsaw, $164.50
Failure to obey signs and markings while driving a vehicle, learner’s permit violation, child restraint system violation — Yasmin Salas-Gonzales, Warsaw, $214.50
No valid driver’s license, operating a motor vehicle with a false plate, plate belongs to another vehicle — Liliana Beltran, Warsaw, $189.50
Unlawful possession of tobacco, e-liquid or an electronic cigarette, allowing unlicensed individual to
Diego Morales applauds passage of HB 1680 and SB 10 to strengthen election integrity
Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales applauds the General Assembly for the passage and signing of two key pieces of legislation aimed at enhancing the transparency and security of Indiana’s elections: House Bill 1680 and Senate Bill 10.
House Enrolled Act 1680 expands the state’s ability to conduct comprehensive audits of
operate vehicle on a highway — Decoda Travis Estep, North Manchester, $189.50
Passing in a no-passing zone — Tiffany L. Kujac, 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:
Balser-Anson
Matthew Balser, 25, Warsaw, and Dalenna Anson, 27, Warsaw Coria-Pickens
Samuel Eric Coria, 37, Warsaw, and Chloe Jane Pickens, 35, Warsaw Ponce Tejada-Viers
Jennyfer Andrea Ponce Tejada, 21, Warsaw, and Jesse Viers, 23, Warsaw Cummins-Carr
Cade Andrew Cummins, 23, Indianapolis, and Emily Grace Carr, 20, Winona Lake
Shively-DeRolf
William Noah Shively IV, 25, Syracuse, and Kara Jane DeRolf, 24, Syracuse
Metcalf-Holub
Joshua Philip Glen Metcalf, 21, Leesburg, and Olena V. Holub, 21, Harrison, Ohio
Stuckman-Perek
Macie Ann Stuckman, 24, North Webster, and Nathan Joseph Perek, 26, North Webster
Moore-Jameson
Josiah Aaron Moore, 23, Warsaw, and Khloughi Jameson, 21, Warsaw May-Miller
Haley Erin May, 23, Bourbon, and Casey Miller, 26, Etna Green Hamilton-Burke
Thomas F. Hamilton, 45, Warsaw, and Hazel Burke, 43, Warsaw Helms-Sheetz
Braedon Kole Helms, 21, Mentone, and Brianna Sue Sheetz, 21, Mentone Kruse-Morehouse
Clarissa Victoria Kruse, 28, Milford, and Kyle Brenden Morehouse, 32, Milford
Neufer-Hidlebaugh
Joshua Alexander Neufer, 19, Warsaw, and Abigail Louise Hidlebaugh, 18, Warsaw Frye-Crittendon
Acacia Jade Frye, 30, Syracuse, and Tavis Ray Crittendon, 31, Syracuse Hollenbaugh-Keim
Jackson Steven Hollenbaugh, 21, Columbia City, and Shoshana Sakara Keim, 21, Warsaw
Good-Slone
Bryce Good, 34, Mentone, and Kayley Slone, 30, Mentone
Marriage
Dissolutions
The following couples have filed for a marriage dissolution in Kosciusko Superior Courts I or IV:
Hobbs — Tanner Hobbs, Warsaw, and Marissa Hobbs, Warsaw. They were married Oct. 29, 2018, and separated April 1, 2024. One minor child.
Oest — Ashley R. Oest, Middlebury, and Alexander W. Oest, Syracuse. They were married May 5, 2012, and separated Sept. 13, 2024. Two minor children. Smith — Joshua T. Smith, Pendleton, and Sarah E. Smith, Mentone. They were married July 16, 2017, and separated Feb. 16, 2023. One minor child.
The Watershed Foundation welcomes Pasko and Mock to board of directors
The Watershed Foundation announced Lee Pasko and Max Mock have joined its board of directors.
The two new board members will help guide TWF in its mission to protect and improve water quality in local lakes and streams.
“We’re excited to welcome Max and Lee,” said Lyn Crighton, TWF executive director. “Their unique experiences bring new perspectives and energy to our work.”
Mock was a financial advisor for 20 years, retiring from Edward Jones Investments in 2019. He lives with his wife, Sue, in Warsaw, where he was born and raised. Along with his board service, Mock enjoys travel, hiking, bicycling, boating, swimming and photography.
Pasko is vice president and commercial lender at First Federal Savings Bank in Warsaw. He lives in northeastern Indiana with his wife, Amy, and their two children. With a strong personal connection to Lake
Tippecanoe, Pasko is passionate about preserving the water quality and natural beauty of our region.
“Joining the TWF Board is an opportunity to give back and help protect the lakes and streams that have brought so much joy to my family and our community,” said Pasko.
“Max and Lee are both long time members of our community, with distinguished careers,” said John O’Neill, TWF board president. “They are dedicated to making our lakes and waterways healthier and stronger. TWF looks forward to their contributions.”
The Watershed Foundation is an environmental nonprofit dedicated to protecting water quality in the lakes and streams of the Upper Tippecanoe River Watershed, which spans from Crooked Lake in Whitley County to the Warsaw and Winona Lake area. For more information, visit watershedfoundation.org.
Bremen student wins 2nd District art contest
Republican U.S. Rep. Rudy Yakym, representing Indiana’s 2nd Congressional District has announced that Bremen High School student, Bellamy Gratrix, has won the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for the 2nd District.
election results, ensuring Hoosiers can have even greater confidence in the accuracy and integrity of the election process. By establishing more robust audit procedures, the bill provides county clerks with the ability to send a notice requesting proof of citizenship of an individual who registers to vote with a tempoContinued on page 15
Holbrook — Dekota Holbrook, Pierceton, and Brandi Holbrook, Columbia City. They were married June 22, 2023, and separated Aug. 10, 2023. No minor child(ren).
Weaver — Brittany E. Weaver, Syracuse, and Samuel B. Weaver, Leesburg. They were married Oct. 7, 2023, and separated May 8, 2025. No minor child(ren).
Heckman — Karissa Heckman, Warsaw, and Jon Heckman Jr., Warsaw. They were married May 4, 2024, and separated April 1, 2025. No minor child(ren).
Gratrix’s winning artwork, titled “Truly Being Free,” will be displayed at the U.S. Capitol for the next year alongside other winners from across the country.
“Congratulations to our winner, Bellamy Gratrix from Bremen High School, on winning this year’s Congressional Art Competition,” Yakym said. “I’m incredibly grateful to all the students who submitted their work and shared their creative talents with us. It’s clear that Indiana’s 2nd District is home to many talented young artists who truly embody the spirit of the Hoosier state.”
Yakym congratulated Gratrix at
a reception Saturday, May 3, at the South Bend International Airport for students who submitted entries and their teachers.
Second place in the contest was awarded to Reese Blair, a student at John Glenn High School. Her artwork, “Fighters,” will be displayed in Yakym’s Mishawaka district office for the next year.
April Pressler, a local teacher, served as the judge for this year’s competition. The St. Joseph County Airport Authority served as the facility host of the competition and reception.
The Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 to provide an opportunity for members of Congress to recognize the artistic talents of high school students in their districts. Since then, hundreds of thousands of high school students have been involved with the nationwide competition.
DISPLAYED AT CAPITOL U.S. Rep. Rudy Yakym, right, is shown with Bremen High School student Bellamy Gratrix, who won the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for Indiana’s 2nd District. Gratrix’s art will be displayed at the U.S. Capitol. Photo provided by the office of U.S. Rep. Rudy Yakym.
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Design team tackles challenge in partnership with Steel Dynamics, Copperworks
A team of Trine University chemical engineering seniors is addressing an operational challenge at Steel Dynamics La Farga Copperworks, New Haven, through their senior design project, developing a more efficient soot recovery system tailored to the facility’s expanding needs.
Lydia Randolph, Jefferson, Ohio; Marshall Beebe, Nappanee; and Joshua Scott, Ossian, focused their capstone work on enhancing filtration performance at Copperworks, where recent plant growth has exceeded the capacity of the existing system.
Their project combined design innovation with hands-on testing to propose both immediate upgrades and long-term solutions for improving soot removal.
“This project gave us the opportunity to explore multiple facets of engineering — from lab testing and vendor coordination to in-plant experimentation and system design,” said Randolph. “That diversity made it especially engaging.”
From The Lab To The Line
The students worked closely with Copperworks staff throughout the year. After establishing a project direction that included both system optimization and new equipment design, the team ran extensive small-scale lab tests to identify improvements, such as better filter paper and flocculant performance.
Flocculants are additives that help promote clumping of fine particles into larger aggregates, aiding in their separation and removal.
“Copperworks gave us the independence to manage much of the project,” Randolph explained, “but they remained closely involved, helping us secure materials and offering feedback through regular updates and plant operator input.”
Copperworks process engineer and industry contact, Roger Chase, was impressed with the group’s problem-solving ability.
“The Trine design team was able to effectively navigate not only the technical aspects of the project, but also the unforeseen complications that come with testing on an active production
line and complete a financial analysis,” he said.
The team’s proposed improvements include implementing a more durable turbidity meter, optimizing flocculant dosing and designing a new hydrocyclone-based filtration system to better fit the plant’s spatial constraints. These recommendations are expected to reduce maintenance demands and operational costs while boosting efficiency.
“This project provided Copperworks with cost-saving enhancements to their current system and a scalable path forward through the hydrocyclone design,” said Scott.
Design And Experimentation
Throughout the project, students balanced experimentation with engineering design — a unique element of their work.
“We weren’t just handed a single objective,” said Beebe. “It really felt like we were doing engineering work.”
The project also reinforced concepts learned in the classroom.
“We applied principles of fluid dynamics, safety analysis and process design,” said Scott.
All three students also participated in undergraduate research projects during their time at Trine, which provided them unique insights on troubleshooting experimental testing.
Implementing Recommendations
Copperworks is in the process of implementing many of the team’s recommendations, including the purchase and installation of new process monitoring equipment and completing additional plant trials for the new filtration method.
All three students are launching full-time engineering careers after graduation — two with Abbott Nutrition and Randolph continuing her work with Copperworks. Their involvement in the project gave them valuable early experience in tackling complex challenges and working in professional environments.
Randolph added, “Our inplant testing revealed both progress and challenges. As I return to Copperworks, I’m excited to build on what we’ve done and help drive future improvements.”
Wanted To Buy S100
P ublic A uctions
Online Only
Industrial Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Thursday, May 22. Preview noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday, May 21. Located at 1420 W. Bike St., Bremen. Bid online at bid.kraftauctions.com.
Fry Real Estate Auction
6 p.m. Monday, May 26. Public inspection, 4-6 p.m. Mondays. Located at 4095 W. 700S, Topeka.
Diego Morales
Continued from page 13
rary credential ID. It also permits the Secretary of State’s office to begin conducting election procedure audits.
“Audits are essential to election integrity. House Enrolled Act 1680 ensures that Indiana continues to lead the way. This is a major step forward in strengthening trust in our elections. By expanding our ability to conduct post-election audits, we’re giving voters more transparency, accountability and confidence in every result. Hoosiers deserve to know their vote is counted correctly — this law helps ensure exactly that,” said Morales.
Senate Enrolled Act 10 reinforces the state’s commitment to secure elections by tightening identification requirements for eligible voters. Specifically, it eliminates the use of unsecured student ID cards that do
15th Annual Memorial Day
Pony Auction
8:30 a.m. Monday, May 26. Located at Topeka Livestock Barn, 601 E. Lake St., Topeka. Public Auction
2:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 28. Located 4 miles north of Millersburg on SR 13 to CR 34, east 2 miles to Elkhart/LaGrange E. County Line Road, north ¼ mile to 3735 S. 1200W, Goshen.
not meet uniform security standards. The measure ensures that all forms of ID used at the polls are held to the same level of verification. Morales wants the youth to vote, but they must get an Indiana Drivers License like every other Hoosier and claim Indiana residency.
“Voting is a sacred right and it must be safeguarded through consistent and reliable security standards. Senate Enrolled Act 10 ensures that every ID used at the polls is secure and reinforces my promise that only eligible Hoosiers are voting in our state,” said Morales.
Morales extends a thank you to Sen. Blake Doriot, Rep. Kendell Culp, Sen. Mike Gaskill and Rep. Timothy Wesco for prioritizing election security and for working together to support measures that ensure the integrity of elections in the Hoosier state.
Land Auction
6 p.m. Thursday, May 29. Located at 9870 W. 200S, Mentone, 27.34 acres of bare and wooded land. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Online Only Coin Auction
Bidding open until 7 p.m. Thursday, May 29. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Silver dollars, 450+ Kennedy half dollars, Indian head cents, standing liberty quarters, mercury dimes, barber coins, foreign coins. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction. com.
Sue Reaker Estate Auction 10 a.m. Saturday, May 31. Located at 427 S. Liberty St., Bremen. Searfoss Real Estate And Personal Property Auction 9 a.m. Saturday, May 31. Open house 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 10. Located at 10525 N. 800E, Syracuse. House, one-bed apartment, shop on 1.25 acres. Truck, boats, tractor, shop and carpenter equipment, guns, appliances, furniture, collectibles. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Wawasee Channelfront Property Auction
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6 p.m. Thursday, June 19. Inspections 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, May 28, and Thursday, June 12. Located at Kosciusko County Fairgrounds, 1400 E. Smith St., Warsaw. Property located northeast of Warsaw on CR 300N and CR 400E. Tillable land, 48 acres in four tracts. Schrader Auction, schraderauction. com.
Penrod Real Estate Auction
6 p.m. Thursday, June 19. Open house from 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.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING STUDENTS From left, Trine University chemical engineering students
Joshua Scott, Marshall Beebe and Lydia Randolph developed a more efficient soot recovery system for Steel Dynamics La Farga Copperworks in New Haven. Photo by Dean Orewiler/Trine University.
MILFORD LIONS FESTIVAL
Saturday,
May 24
7 a.m.-10 a.m. Kiwanis Pancake & Sausage Breakfast in the Community Building
9 a.m.-2 p.m. Library Book Sale
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Classic Car Cruise-In by Kosciusko County Lodge #418
11 a.m.until sold out Ribeye Sandwiches at the Fire Station
12 p.m.-8 p.m. Free Carnival Rides provided by B.A.J.A.
10 a.m.-8 p.m. Stage Events:
10 a.m. Adrienne Frailey & John Gaut
12 p.m. Shawn Richards
2 p.m. The Spaniels Forever 2:45 p.m. Senior King and Queen Crowning
4 p.m. Quentin Flagg
6 p.m. Big Daddy Dupree & The Broke and Hungry Blues Band
SUMMER READING PROGRAM
Milford Public Library 101 S. Main Street, Milford, IN • 574-658-4312 Color Our World Sign Up Begins May 27th For All Ages - Infants to 18 Years Old
SWCD STAFF & PARTNERS:
Tashina Lahr-Manifold — Soil Health Specialist
Amanda Heltzel — Education & Outreach Coordinator
Jamie Perry — Conservation Program Technician
Dawn Armey — Executive Director
NATURAL RESOURCE
CONSERVATION SERVICE:
Chad Schotter — District Conservationist
Wednesday, May 21, 2025
SWCD Supervisors:
David Ransbottom — Chairman
Ryan Martin — Vice Chairman
Luke Mullet — Treasurer
Ben Schlipf — Supervisor
Roger Miller — Supervisor
A success for soil health
By TASHINA LAHR-MANIFOLD SWCD Soil Health Specialist
Soil-Con 2025 was held March 18 at Oakwood Event Center, Syracuse. This free conference was designed as a working meeting to explore the connections within soil health, soil fertility, ecological risk of pest management strategies and developing long-term solutions for soil health. This all-day event had three specialized speakers from across the U.S.
The keynote address, The Great Influence of Soil Fertility on Enabling Excellent Soil Health was provided by Neal Kinsey, Kinsey Agricultural Services. Kinsey focused on fertility management and how it can be used to improve soil health. Neal uses Albrecht’s theory, declining soil fertility, due to a lack of organic material, major elements and trace minerals — or a marked imbalance in these nutrients — is responsible for poor crops and in turn for pathological conditions in animals fed deficient feeds from soils.
Kinsey argues that you cannot have a functioning soil health system, without balanced soils. “You don’t look at the crop. You look at the principle,” he said. Kinsey encouraged the audience to consider the feasibility of application and the smallest amount of acre you are willing to apply to, then start with the field that is easier to correct. Kinsey then covered local soil sample results and shared how he would suggest correcting these soils for optimal production. If you are interested in analyzing your micronutrient balance, the district has funds
available to help you sample your soil.
The second speaker of the day was RJ Rant, owner of Terraform Ag and Nutrilink Biosystems. Rant went over ecosystem management strategies for improving soil health and yield. He also presented information on the integrated concept of soil health — its function and dependencies. Those include carbon transformation, nutrient cycling, soil structure maintenance and regulations of pests and disease. He stressed the ecosystem management strategies for improving soil health and yield are: Leaving the soil through management of disturbance; grow the soil through crop rotation and cover-crop management; and feeding the plant, through integrated nutrient management.
Most of his presentation focused on a soil health case study, which began in 2016 and is still underway on potato fields in Michigan. He presented management changes and the purpose of those changes, explaining each aspect. He touched on measuring soil health through lead indications, such as carbon pool, nitrogen pool, microbial biomass, microbial activity and microbial community structure.
The day wrapped up with John Tooker. Tooker’s research with the Department of Entomology at The Pennsylvania State University, studies relationships among plants, invertebrate herbivores and natural enemies to understand factors, which regulate populations slugs. Tooker presented four take home messages, no-till and cover crops build diversity and can improve pest control, diversity can improve crop production, inte-
grated pest management is key to protecting diversity and pairing IPM with cover crops makes them more useful. He stressed applications of insecticides only when it pays. Three key principles to achieve this are, avoid preventative insecticides, scout to know what is in your fields and control populations only if they exceed the economic threshold. “Just don’t use insecticides blindly, value the life in your fields,” he said. He then dug into the research on seeds with fungicide and fungicide + neonics treatments. These studies indicate that insecticide seed treatments are not providing
much if any financial return for pest control. This event was funded by the Kosciusko County SWCD in collaboration with our dedicated partners, Clean Water Indiana, Conservation Cropping Systems Initiative, The Watershed Foundation, Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation, Hoosier Ag Today, Louis Dreyfus Company-Regen Ag Program, Soil and Water Outcomes Fund, ADM, Purdue Extension, Purdue On the Farm, American Farmland Trust & USDA-Natural Recourse Conservation Service along with Farm Service Agency. Be on the lookout for Soil-Con 2026 in March of next year.
SOIL-CON Shown are attendees at 2025 Soil-Con.
JOHN TOOKER John Tooker talks about neonics increasing slug populations.
NEAL KINSEY Shown is keynote speaker Neal Kinsey.
www.the-papers.com
2025 TREE SALE RECAP This year’s tree sale was a tremendous success, with over 9,700 trees sold. We extend a thank you to the Kosciusko County Highway Department for generously hosting our event once again.
A special shout-out goes to our amazing volunteers — your hard work and dedication made this event run smoothly. Thanks to your efforts, we were able to sort and pack all the trees in record time. The cooler temperatures earlier in the week may have helped too.
We’re grateful for everyone who participated and supported the sale. Your enthusiasm for conservation and reforestation continues to make a lasting impact in our community.
Warsaw Team Panthera wins state Envirothon contest
Sixteen high school teams from across the state of Indiana competed in the 2025 Envirothon contest on April 23. The contest took place at the FFA Leadership Center in Trafalgar. Envirothon is a natural resources academic competition for high school students which focuses on the subject of soil and land use, wildlife, forestry, aquatic sciences and an annual current issue topic. This year’s current issue was Roots and Resiliency: Fostering Forest Stewardship in a Canopy of Change.
Student teams qualified to compete in the state contest by placing at regional contests held in March. Warsaw High School qualified to send two teams to compete at the state contest, including a team made up of seniors Natalie Boley, Mattix Garrett and Griffin Roe, along with freshmen Medha Aluru and Jocelyn Baldridge and an additional team made up of seniors Sydney Clark and Evan Hand, junior Titiksha Gorhe and sophomores Kevin Gough and Sean Smith. The teams were supported by alternates Hannah Grossman and Diya Patel.
Team Panthera, including students Clark, Hand, Gorhe, Gough and Smith, earned perfect scores in the wildlife and forestry testing categories. Teams were also judged on an oral presentation focused on the current issue topic. Team Panthera took home the first-place award and will be representing Indiana at the
international NCF Envirothon competition this July at Mount Royal University in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. This is the third year in a row that Warsaw Community High School has placed first at the state contest. The WCHS teams are coached by Emily Gough.
The Kosciusko County Soil and Water Conservation District is proud to support Envirothon teams in Kosciusko County by covering registration costs. If your school or youth organization is interested in competing in Envirothon, please contact our office to learn more at (574) 267-7445, ext. 3. If you are interested in sponsoring the WCHS as it prepares to compete in the international competition this summer, reach out to coach Emily Gough at Warsaw Community High School to learn more.
Congratulations to all students involved in the contest this year.
Free Hoosier Riverwatch Workshop in June
Since 1996, Hoosier Riverwatch has engaged Indiana citizens in becoming active stewards of Indiana’s valuable water resources through its hands-on water quality education and volunteer stream monitoring program. Hoosiers who want to get their feet wet (wearing boots or waders, of course), learn about water quality issues and discover how to monitor and protect their local streams are invited to join Hoosier Riverwatch. All Indiana citizens over the age of 18 who have an interest in water resources are invited to join in on a workshop. K-12 educators are also encouraged to attend training if they are interested in water quality monitoring with students.
The Watershed Foundation and Kosciusko Soil and Water Conservation District will be hosting a free Hoosier Riverwatch Basic Training from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 17, at the North Webster Community Center. To register, call TWF at (574) 834-3242 or email office@watershedfoundation.org.
Continued on page 3
ENVIROTHON TEAM The entire Warsaw Community High School Envirothon team is pictured. In front from left are Kevin Gough, Diya Patel, Titiksha Gorhe, Medha Aluru, Natalie Boley and Emily Gough. In back are Evan Hand, Sean Smith, Hannah Grossman, Griffin Roe, Sydney Clark, Jocelyn Baldridge and Mattix Garrett. Photo provided by Warsaw Community Schools.
JOIN WACF FOR A NATIVE PLANT SALE
Get ready for a Saturday that is both Instagram-worthy and eco-friendly. Join us for our Native Plant Sale and Bubbly Brunch.
Get the Dirt on Dirt from our expert speaker, Jamie Perry from the Kosciusko County Soil and Water Conservation District. He will share valuable tips and techniques for improving your soil. This talk is perfect for gardeners and nature enthusiasts alike.
After the presentation, take the opportunity to explore our shopping area, featuring native plants from local nurseries that can bring life to your landscape.
Don’t miss this chance to enhance your understanding of soil and support local growers from 9-11 a.m. Saturday June 7, at Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation, 11586 SR 13, Syracuse.
Habitat Management
Field Day July 22
Landowners interested in conducting wildlife habitat management on their properties are invited to attend a Habitat Management Field Day at 5:30 p.m. July 22. Participants will tour three properties to see habitat management practices in action. Topics of discussion will include wetland restoration, pond management, food plots, prairie establishment, tree plantings, prescribed fire, invasive management and cost-share programs.
Multiple guest speakers who work on habitat management projects will be on-site to answer your questions including: Scott Fetters, private lands biologist for the US Fish and Wildlife Service; Chad Schotter, district conservationist for the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Kosciusko County; Gillian Martin, wildlife biologist for the Indiana Department of Natural Resources; and Emily Clark, Farm Bill biologist for Pheasants Forever. Participants will also have the
opportunity to learn about cost-share programs which are available for habitat management projects, including Conservation Reserve Program.
This field day is hosted in partnership with Kosciusko and Whitley Counties’ Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Farm Service Agency and Natural Resources Conservation Service. Other partners include the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Pheasants Forever and Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
RSVP is required. Further details, including location, will be sent to the registrants a week prior to the event. This event will be capped at 30 participants. This event will take place at private properties located near the Kosciusko-Whitley county line.
Register at kosciuskoswcd.org/field-day or by calling the Kosciusko SWCD office at (574) 267-7445, ext. 3.
will be hosting a free
p.m. June 17, at the North Webster Community
To register, call TWF at (574) 834-3242 or email office@watershedfoundation.org. Shown are participants at a
Hoosier Riverwatch event.
Free Hoosier
Continued from page 2
Following the basic training workshop, participants will be qualified to conduct habitat and biological surveys of their local streams. Monitoring activities include collecting and identifying small stream organisms called macroinvertebrates, which serve as bioindicators of water quality and determining the physical and chemical characteristics of the stream. The data that volunteers collect and add to Hoosier Riverwatch’s online database can be used to determine the health of streams and how they are changing over time. Join us and let’s work together to ensure the health and beauty of Indiana streams and watersheds for ourselves and future generations.
HOOSIER RIVERWATCH The Watershed Foundation and Kosciusko Soil and Water Conservation District
Hoosier Riverwatch Basic Training from 9 a.m. to 4
Center.
www.the-papers.com — ‘the PAPER’ — Wednesday, May 21, 2025
Filter strips — What are they and why have one?
By JAMIE PERRY Conservation Technician
Erosion is the process that results in the movement of sediment from one place to another through the action of wind or water. Although erosion does occur in nature, human activities can increase the rate of erosion. One of the major impacts of erosion is the pollution of lakes and oceans. This is caused by the soil that is eroded carrying pesticides and fertilizers with it and ultimately ending up in these surface waters. This pollution can lead to habitat displacement and plant starvation.
There are many practices that can limit soil from entering the waterways that feed these bodies of water. The one we are going to highlight today is a filter strip. A filter strip according to the Natural Resource Conservation Service is a narrow band of grass-
es, legumes and forbs used to protect environmentally sensitive areas from sediment and containment.
Here are some key points regarding filter strips:
1. The filter strip will be composed of vegetation that has stiff upright growth.
2. The width will be determined by the slope and soil type of the field. The minimum width will be 20 feet.
3. Seeding the filter strip can be accomplished using a no-till drill, conventional drill or broad cast seeding.
4. During the first three years unwanted vegetation may need to be controlled by mowing, controlled burn or herbicide application.
If this is something that interests you, then reach out to your local USDA Service Center at (574) 267-7445 for technical and cost share assistance.
CROP FERTILITY SPECIALISTS
• GPS Mapping/Application By Soil Types
• Custom Dry Blends
• Lime Spreading
• Liquid & Dry Starters
• Professional Application
• Small Seeds
• Crop Protection Chemicals
• Field Scouting
• Agro Chem Parts Servicing Kosciusko & Surrounding Counties!
Business Hours: 7:30 A.M.-5:00 P.M. M-F 37 E. 900 N. MILFORD, IN 46542 cfsmilford@ekova.com
or 800-686-4158
Ladies Night Out
Dig Into Soil Health
Get your hands dirty with Purdue Extension and the Soil & Water Conservation District as we uncover what healthy soil looks like from water infiltration and root zones to compaction, color and the life teeming below the surface Fun, friends, and fieldwork await!
Wednesd ay, May 28 at 6 PM - 8 PM
6281 E Van Ness Rd, Pierceton, IN 46562
COST: $20 - includes dinner Register by Frid ay, May 23 2025 rd https://bit.ly/LNOSoil25
If you are in need of accommodations to attend this program, please contact Emily Kresca prior to the meeting at 574-372-2340 or eluc@purdue edu by May 23, 2025
If you need an interpreter or translator, please contact Emily Kresca prior to the meeting at 574-372-2340 or eluc@purdue edu by May 23, 2025 Purdue University is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access University
FILTER STRIP