Warsaw star Kyle Mangas knocking on the door of NBA dream
By NATHAN PACE Staff Writer
pursue his NBA dream and he is confident all the work he has done has made him better at a basketball. Mangas finished his second season in the NBA G League with the Austin Spurs and played in Canada for the Vancouver Bandits.
“Vancouver is an amazing city, lots to do,” Mangas said. “It’s beautiful. It’s right on the water, lush green mountains. We thought it could be good to mix it up and try something different.”
Mangas graduated from WCHS in 2017 and went on to have a record breaking tenure at Indiana Wesleyan University at the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics level. Mangas was named NAIA Men’s Basketball Player of the year twice as he took the award in 2020 and 2021.
Continued on page 3
THREE ON THE WAY — Kyle Mangas launches a 3-pointer in a game for the Vancouver Bandits. Photo courtesy of the Vancouver Bandits.
AIR CANADA — Kyle Mangas takes flight for a dunk in a Vancouver Bandits game this summer. Photo provided by the Vancouver Bandits.
INTERNATIONAL HOOPER — Kyle Mangas has played professional basketball for teams located in Canada, Lithuania, and the Czech Republic. Photo provided by the Vancouver Bandits.
The past year has seen Warsaw Community High School alumnus, Kyle Mangas, continue to
Dutkowski applies nonprofit experience to a familiar field
By PHOEBE MUTHART Editor
From Community Partner’s Mental Health in Dover, N.H., to the YMCA in Chicago, Ill., and then to the Salvation Army’s Kroc Center in South Bend, Sharon Dutkowski has spent years working in nonprofit organizations, which have fueled her passion for preparing youth for their careers.
She is now a professor at Grace College.
After starting at Grace College in January 2022, as an adjunct professor in the School of Behavioral Sciences, she is a full-time faculty member and the school’s director of internships for those getting degrees in behavioral sciences.
“One thing I love about teaching at Grace is that every class has its own personality and unique pur-
PROFESSING
HER FAITH
Sharon Dutkowski is a professor at the Grace College School of Behavioral Sciences. A Nappanee resident, she is married with four children. Photo provided by Grace College.
Store HoursMonday-Friday 8:30AM to 4:30PM Saturday 8:30AM to 3:00 PM Cold Cooler with Cheese, Meats, Milk, Eggs & Butter Cereals, Canned Goods, Juices, Paper Products, Pet Foods & More!
•
•
•
• Connect with residents and staff
way.
pose for being offered,” Dutkowski said. “I just love seeing students’ eyes open when they understand issues they’ve probably heard many times before, from a different perspective and how they are going to use their degrees in behavioral sciences to impact the world around them.”
She teaches life span; senior
seminar for criminal justice; social problems; gender, race and violence; substance use and abuse; and grief and loss for those getting degrees in behavioral sciences.
ly relocate a family of six halfway across the country.
“We brought it before God, and within 10 minutes, we received a phone call from the school. A donor had heard about our situation and donated the exact amount of money we needed to move. So we moved to Northbrook, Ill., and I started working at the YMCA,” she recalled.
The Nappanee resident graduated with a Bachelors of Science in business administration and psychology from American International College, Springfield, Mass. Then, she earned a master’s degree in human services with a concentration in organizational management from Springfield College in Massachusetts.
Dutkowski was born and raised in New England, where she lived for 37 years. She grew up in New Hampshire. Her husband worked as a guidance counselor for Portsmouth Christian Academy near Dover, N.H., and, she said, “I never thought we’d move.”
“A few years after Bill started working there, the school’s principal took the position of headmaster at Christian Heritage Academy in the northern suburbs of Chicago, and two years later, asked my husband to join him and help build a new school,” Dutkowski related.
“We initially said no. But every time we came up with a reason to stay, God knocked it down.”
For example, they didn’t have the money at the time to physical-
Before she worked at Grace, she worked at the Kroc Center in South Bend for 11 years. Her last role was director of operations.
“Together with the Salvation Army officers, we worked to get the mission of the Kroc Center at the forefront, which is all about Jesus, and tying that into leadership development,” Dutkowksi said.
Her husband, Bill, is the Nappanee Chamber director. They have been married 30 years. The couple have four children: Alec, 29; Matt, 25; Alison, 23; and Nate, 18.
Her hobbies include being a Revelation Wellness fitness instructor.
RW is a faith-based group fitness class integrating Biblical truths into the workout.
“I was certified in 2020, but have been following the ministry for about 11 years,” Dutkowski said.
She also enjoys going for walks, the outdoors, and gardening.
Warsaw star
Continued from page 1
Since then, he has played professionally for multiple teams and in multiple countries to chase his dream of playing in the NBA. In September, Mangas had the opportunity to practice against players from the San Antonio Spurs.
“There’s NBA all-stars here. So the talent level is off the charts. It motivates you to keep going. It shows me that I’m right there knocking on the door. Just being in the gym with these guys in September, working out, playing open gym is pretty cool, but you can’t reflect on it too much. You have to be a competitor and get in there and get after it.”
Though practicing with the NBA players, Mangas has learned how to adjust to playing against top talent from the league, such as Victor Wembanyama, who the Spurs drafted
No. 1 overall in 2023. Mangas said it has been a learning experience to get shots over the 7’3” center in the open gyms.
“He’s definitely affected my shots, but hasn’t blocked them,” Mangas said.
After graduating from Indiana Wesleyan in 2021, Mangas was determined to keep playing basketball. He spent two years in Europe — one for a team in the Czech Republic and another season for a team in Lithuania. In 2023, he became part of the Indiana Pacers organization with its G-League affiliate in the Mad Ants.
The Austin Spurs, affiliated with the San Antonio Spurs, inquired about a trade back in March.
“It kind of happened out of nowhere,” Mangas said. “Of course, I loved being in Indiana and being in the Pacers organization. An opportunity kind
Mariah Roberts recruited as watershed manager
The Watershed Foundation announces a new member to its growing team. Mariah Roberts’ role is the first of its kind at the organization.
As Watershed Manager, Roberts will lead and grow agricultural and urban conservation programs in the Upper Tippecanoe River Watershed. Her role is vital in implementing water quality initiatives, managing projects and grants, and working closely with landowners, partners, and a collaborative team to advance TWF’s mission.
Roberts will assist land owners as they participate in project grants such as Healthy Soils Clean Water, Beyond Lawns, and Healthy Shorelines. Her responsibilities also include developing partnerships with local organizations, delivering public presentations and planning outreach initiatives focused on agricultural education.
“Teaching has always been in my nature,” Roberts comments, “and I’m thrilled to continue to serve local landowners by helping them protect their investment in the land — whether it’s around their home, business, or agricultural land. I’m especially excited to support local agricultural producers - they work tire-
lessly to feed and fuel the world. My goal is to help them maximize their profit while minimizing en vironmental impact.”
Raised on a diversified fami ly farm near Mentone, Roberts brings agricultural roots and hands-on experience to the role. Today, she continues to cultivate her passion for agriculture by contributing to her family farm in Syracuse.
“We are so excited to bring Mariah onto our team,” says Lyn Crighton, executive director of The Watershed Foundation. “Ma riah’s role is pivotal in our efforts to improve soil and lake health. Her background in agriculture will be an asset to us.”
With Roberts on board, The Watershed Foundation strength ens its capacity and to protecting and improving our land and water for generations to come.
of came about with the Spurs where they were really interested in me mid-season. We decided to jump on it. Just thought it could be a good opportunity to go somewhere new. I’m super thankful that the Pacers gave me opportunities there and I made great relationships there, but just didn’t want to be too comfortable. I just always push myself to play in different environments and try to play at the highest level I can. Sometimes you just have to take chances and go for it. So that kind of was the thought process behind that.”
Instead opting for a traditional off season, Mangas had the chance to play for the Vancouver Bandits in the Canadian Elite Basketball League. He rejoined the Spurs in July for NBA Summer League and returned to the Bandits later that month.
“I didn’t have as much of an off season, but I just wanted to do something different and I’m really happy that I did it,” Man
summer. You know you’re getting better from that.”
His parents, Tim and Ann, were athletes at Wawasee High School in the 1980s. Mangas also learned from his older brother, Jake, who played basketball and football at Warsaw.
Eight years after graduating from Warsaw, Mangas feels he is closing in on his NBA dream. He and the Austin Spurs will start the season Friday, Nov. 7.
“That is my goal,” Mangas said. “Play in the NBA, play in an NBA game in whatever capacity that is. I still feel like I’m knocking on the door. I feel like I have been for the past couple seasons. I’m ready to break through. Now, I have some experience in the G League under my belt and know what to expect. Just going to try to really hit the ground running this year and get after it.”
MARIAH ROBERTS
Good Neighbors
Good Neighbors is a column in which readers share friendly advice. To ask or answer questions, write the Shopping Guide News, Good Neighbors, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542; fax 800-886-3796; or e-mail abias@the-papers.com. Please no phone calls.
Editor’s Note: The Good Neighbors column is for people looking for hard-to-find or old items or for people seeking advice, not for items you can find in a local store or sell through the help of a classified ad.
This column will now run every other week.
Electric typewriter
Good neighbors: I have a 1982 Smith-Corona electric typewriter free for anyone who can work on it. It powers up when turned on, but it needs adjustments or repairs before it can be used. Call or text (574) 551-6582.
Tropical hibiscus
Good neighbors: I have an orange, flowering, tropical hibiscus that I can’t properly care for. I would like to give it to someone who could care for and appreciate it. I live on Waubee Lake in Milford. Call and leave a message at (574) 6780297.
Red rooster
Good neighbors: We have an extra Rhode Is-
land red rooster. Call (574) 773-9002 and give him a good home. He is 5 months old.
Overhead door
Good neighbors: Free 8-foot by 8-foot overhead door for picking up. All complete. Call (574) 658-3563.
New questions
Diaper covers — Wanted: Washable diaper covers with inserts for babies/toddlers, new or used for a discount price; will pay for shipping. Call (574) 223-4400 or (574) 223-3999 and leave a message.
Rainbow sweeper — Does anyone have a Rainbow sweeper they no longer need or want? Call (574) 209-2168 with condition and pricing.
China — We are looking for Harmony House Rosebud China. Please call (574) 892-9265.
Free paper shredding Oct. 7
KC Recycling will hold a second free paper shredding event, exclusively for residents of Kosciusko County.
The event will take place from 8-11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, at the KC Recycling Depot facility, 220 S. Union St., Warsaw.
The initiative is designed to help residents securely dispose of personal documents, protecting sensitive information and supporting environmental sustainability.
EDITORIAL OFFICES, CIRCULATION, DISPLAY AND CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING
WARSAW OFFICE MILFORD OFFICE
SYRACUSE OFFICE
114 West Market St. 206 S. Main St. 102 East Main St. Warsaw, IN 46580 P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542 Syracuse, IN 46567 Phone (574) 269-2932 Phone (574) 658-4111 Phone (574) 457-3666 Fax 888-371-2934 1-800-733-4111 Fax 800-886-3796
Out-Of-County: Phone 1-800-733-4111
OFFICE HOURS: 8:00-5:00 Monday Thru Friday www.thepapersonline.com
‘the PAPER’ reserves the right to refuse for publication any advertising that is considered offensive, misleading or detrimental to the public, the newspaper or another advertiser and to edit advertising at its discretion.
Publisher, Ron Baumgartner rbaumgartner@the-papers.com
Business Manager, Annette Weaver aweaver@the-papers.com
Editor-In-Chief, Deb Patterson dpatterson@the-papers.com
Editor, Phoebe Muthart pmuthart@the-papers.com
Warsaw Office Manager, Mary Beth Spalding warsaw@the-papers.com
Director Of Marketing, Kristin DeVittorio kdevittorio@the-papers.com
Advertising Representative, Carl Lauster clauster@the-papers.com
Advertising Representative, Susan Stump sstump@the-papers.com
Circulation Manager, Jerry Long jlong@the-papers.com
Commercial Printing Sales Representative
Rodger Salinas rsalinas@the-papers.com
Commercial Printing Customer Service
Katie Hurley khurley@the-papers.com
Rich Krygowski rkrygowski@the-papers.com
Grocery
The event is open to Kosciusko County residents only; participants will be required to present a valid ID to verify residency.
“We’re excited to offer another opportunity for our community to safely and conveniently shred personal papers,” said KC Recycling Director Tom Ganser. “Proper document disposal is an important step in preventing identity theft and promoting recycling.”
Residents are encouraged to bring paper documents for shredding. The service is limited to residential customers; businesses are not eligible for this free event. If you are unable to attend this time, a third and final shredding event for 2025 will be held in December, with the date and time to be announced.
For additional details or questions, visit kcrecycling.com or call KC Recycling at (574) 372-3087.
Carve out time for Kosco Wood Carving Show Oct. 4
Woodcarvers will be gathering Saturday, Oct. 4, to exhibit their handiwork during the fifth annual
Kosco Wood Carving Show, held by the Kosco Wood Carving Club. The free event takes place from
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the north end of the Senior Activity Center at Lucerne Park, 800 N. Park Ave., Warsaw.
Expect to see a variety of handcarved objects, from small, intricate puzzles, toys and figures to larger items, such as walking sticks, canes, a 3-foot eagle’s feather or a bust of a Native American.
Examples of all types of carving should be on hand, including carving in the round, relief carving, wood burning and chip carving, according to the club’s coordinator, Brent Julian.
Visitors can marvel at the carvings and chat with the creators. Anyone who might like to try their own hand at carving is welcome to sit down for some free lessons with club members during their regular meetings.
The club meets from 6:30-8 p.m. each Tuesday, at the Senior Activity Center in Warsaw. Woodcarvers of all ages and levels of experience are welcome to participate.
“Woodcarving is something of a lost art,” Julian said. “A lot of people don’t do it or think they can’t do it, but you don’t have to be a carpenter or an artist.”
For more information about the club, call Julian at (574) 265-3114.
Apple Festival parade takes over Nappanee
Text and Photos
By NATHAN PACE Staff Writer
The Nappanee Apple Festival completed its 49th year this past weekend and featured its annual parade Saturday, Sept. 20. The parade traveled west on U.S. 6 and was launched with a flyover from the Hooligan Flight Team.
Marching bands from North- Festival Donut Dash 5K Run,
ADAM APPLE — Nappanee Apple Festival mascot, “Adam Apple,” waves to the spectators of the Apple Festival Parade.
HOOLIGANS IN THE AIR — The Hooligan Flight Team in their air crafts started the Apple Festival parade with a flyover.
HUNTING FISHING and
Introduction to deer hunting
Join the Department of Natural Resources for a beginner deer hunting workshop from 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 1, at Atterbury Fish and Wildlife Area, 7970 S. Rowe St., Edinburgh.
Deer hunting is an activity, which can help put wild game on the table and practice skills in the woods this fall.
While hunter education is not required for this workshop, the content will build upon the basic principles of hunter education.
Prior certification in hunter education, either in person or online is recommended. Find more information on online hunter education on the Indiana DNR website.
The class will consist of an hour and a half long presentation with breaks followed by hands-on activities to help solidify participants’ deer hunting knowledge and practice skills hunters may
Whether new to hunting, or getting geared up to try something new this season, this adults-oriented, ages 16 and up workshop will cover the basics: deer biology, hunting tips, gear selection, safety, regulations, and even ways to take one’s harvest from field to fork.
use in the field.
Participants can expect to do a small amount of walking — up to one mile. Pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended.
Register to attend this free workshop. DNR values access for all participants and will provide reasonable accommodation for this event.
Contact Branndon Castellano at bcastellano@dnr.IN.gov or (317) 519-0728 to request an accommodation or discuss any questions and concerns.
Requests must be submitted at least one week before the event.
ing website, so those looking to obtain or renew
Get ready for fall: Sign in,
secure hunting licenses early
Fall licenses are officially on sale, and DNR’s upgraded licensing system, the Activity Hub, works a bit differently than the prior method.
Prospective hunters can make sure they are ready to go by signing in now, checking their account, and grabbing their licenses early.
Getting set up ahead of time gives plenty of room to troubleshoot, ask for help, or visit a retailer if needed. Don’t wait until
the last minute. DNR wants hunters to get into the field without a hitch.
To log in:
• Visit GoOutdoorsIN.com and click the login button.
• Visitors will be directed to Access Indiana, where they can log in or create an account.
• Once logged in, visitors can return to the Hub to verify personal information, purchase licenses, and apply for reserved hunts.
Need help or have questions? Call (317) 232-4200 or (877) 4636367 or email INHuntFish@dnr. IN.gov.
Want helpful tips this fall? Go Outdoors Indiana members can sign up to receive emails from their account, so as to not miss important updates.
PHEASANT HUNT This year’s Put-and-Take pheasant hunt will take place between Saturday, Nov. 22, and Sunday, Nov. 30. Registration is open online. Photo from Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
Put-and-Take Pheasant Hunt registration open
Pheasant hunters, mark the calendar: Reservations for the year’s Put-and-Take Pheasant Hunts opened Wednesday, Sept. 10, and will continue to the end of the Put-and-Take Pheasant Hunt period or until hunts are sold out.
This year, the hunts take place between Saturday, Nov. 22, and Sunday, Nov. 30. The fee is $30 per reservation and is first-come, first-serve. There is a $1 tech fee for each hunt application.
Participating Fish and Wildlife areas include: Atterbury, Glendale, J.E. Roush Lake, Pigeon River, Tri-County, Willow Slough, and Winamac.
For property-specific information, pheasant hunters can contact the property at which they are interested in hunting.
Important notes about reserving a hunt:
In December 2024, a new license system, the Activity Hub, replaced the former system. Make sure to allow plenty of time to log in and learn how the system works.
Additionally, when logging in to reserve a Put-and-Take, visitors will experience a new feature, a virtual waiting room, which regulates the flow of customers through the purchasing process. This feature is designed to prevent bottlenecks and system crashes when sales volumes are high, add a layer of fairness, and prevent bots from impacting sales.
For those who purchased a Putand-Take in the past two years, watch for an email, which will include tips for logging in and details about the new virtual waiting room.
Bring on the bass this fall
Autumn might mean fewer anglers on the water, but that could mean better bass fishing.
Fall is an excellent time to fish a local river or stream, as the water is cooler and often clearer from fewer other recreational users.
For those who decide to take advantage of the prime bass fishing conditions this fall, the DNR would love to hear about it.
During the past year, biologists have been collecting anonymous fishing trip data on stream black bass — smallmouth, largemouth, and spotted bass — to monitor fishing pressure and populations.
Survey data include locations — rivers and streams only, time spent fishing, and the sizes of fish caught. Even for unlucky fishermen that don’t catch any fish, reporting a fishing trip is still helpful for biologists. Data can be submitted at the Indiana DNR’s website.
BASS FISHING IN
FALL As fall begins in Indiana, the Indiana Department of Resources is looking for fishermens’ help in collecting survey data on River Black Bass Anglers. They can submit data at the Indiana DNR’s website. Photo from Indiana DNR.
UPDATED DFW ACTIVITY HUB The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has an upgraded licens-
their licenses need to follow a new set of steps. Screenshot taken from Indiana Department of Natural Resources’ website.
DIABETES FUND — Warsaw Elks Lodge No. 802 presented a gift recently to the Kosciusko County Community Foundation for the Jimmy Baker Memorial Diabetes Fund. Pictured from left are Baker’s daughters, Kimberly Knoerzer and Leslie Rutherford; Stephanie Overbey, CEO of KCCF; and Baker’s sisters, Jill Gross and Jan Martin. Photo provided by KCCF.
Warsaw Elks Lodge makes donation to Jimmy Baker Memorial Diabetes Fund
The Warsaw Elks Lodge recently presented the Kosciusko County Community Foundation with a check for $3,100 from the proceeds of the 19th Annual Jimmy Baker Memorial Diabetes Fund golf scramble. The gift will support the Jimmy Baker Memorial Diabetes
Reception set for county council candidates
Fund, a component fund of KCCF.
The fund was established by the Elks in memory of a longtime member, Jimmy Baker, and helps individuals in need of assistance with their diabetes treatment.
Gifts made to the community foundation are tax-deductible. For more information, visit KCFoundation.org, call (574) 267-1901 or visit the office, 102 E. Market St., Warsaw.
Send us photos of your veterans
‘the PAPER’ wants to honor the veterans in our county in our Nov. 5 publication. We will be dedicating space to publish photos of these veterans and asking our readers to help by sending photos and information.
Please send us a photo, past or present, of a veteran in the family. Include the veteran’s name, military branch and the years served.
Email photos and information to dpatterson@the-papers. com, mailed to ‘the PAPER,’ P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542 or bring a photo and information to either our Warsaw office, 114 W. Market St., Syracuse office, 102 E. Main St., or the main office at 206 S. Main St., Milford.
Information published in past salutes will not be used unless we are notified to use the photo and information again.
BONNEYVILLE BUILDERS
A reception to kick off the campaigns of four Kosciusko County Council candidates is set for Monday, Oct. 6. The event will be from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Zimmer Biomet Center Lake Pavilion, 119 E. Canal St., Warsaw. The reception is in support of Brad Jackson, District 1; appointed Councilman Joe Irwin, District 2; and incumbents Tony Ciriello, District 3 and Dave Wolkins, District 4. The event is hosted by U.S. Congressmen Marlin Stutzman and Rudy Yakym, Attorney General Todd Rokita, State Sen. Ryan Mishler, State Rep. Craig Snow and Bishop Family Farms. It is open to all residents and hors d’oeuvres will be provided. RSVP’s are requested by contacting kormsby@ryanmishler. com or (574) 371-7790.
ROBERT L. FOX U.S. NAVY 1943-1945
Please provide photos and information by Friday, Oct. 24.
Cancer impacts countless lives. Warsaw Community High School’s cheer block is once again rallying the community to stand united in the fight.
Friday, Oct. 17, WCHS will host its annual “Pink Out Night” during the home football game against Northridge. Kickoff is at 7 p.m. at the high school football field.
The evening is dedicated to raising awareness, supporting those currently battling cancer and honoring survivors. Cancer survivors attending the game will receive free admission and
a special appreciation gift at the admission gates.
Fans are encouraged to wear this year’s official “Pink Out” shirt or purchase a pink ribbon at the game to “Walk the Block” during halftime, a powerful lap around the track to celebrate survivors, support those with a current cancer diagnosis, and remember those affected by cancer.
The “Pink Out” shirt web store is now live and can be accessed at warsawpinkout.itemorder.com/ shop/home. Orders will be accepted through Sunday, Oct. 5. If you’d like to pay by cash or check,
AGAINST CANCER A sea of pink is seen during the
High School. Proceeds from “Pink Out” shirt sales benefit the Warsaw
last year helped more than 20 families
email Leslie Jackson at ljackson@ warsawschools.org.
All offline orders must be received and paid before the end of the day Friday, Oct. 3. Shirts will be available for pickup at the WCHS Athletic Office on or around Wednesday, Oct. 15.
“I am so honored to be a part of the Pink Out planning committee this year,” said Arielle Hepler, cheer block leader and Pink Out Night student liaison. “Breast cancer has such an impact on so many people throughout the community, and I am so grateful that we have an opportunity to show our support for them as well as raise awareness. I hope that Pink Out Night is an encouragement
the
to those currently battling cancer, and a testament to the courage of those who have previously fought it. We’re all cheering you on.”
“As a survivor, seeing WCS students and our community walk together during Pink Out Night fills me with hope,” said Rachael Hoffert, Ph.D., “Pink Out” coordinator and breast cancer survivor. “Each step around the track is a powerful reminder that no one fights alone. The funds raised provide meals, ease the burden of transportation and medical costs, and offer encouragement to those in our community bravely battling cancer.”
The student cheer block and
cheerleaders will be sporting their “Pink Out” gear and selling pink ribbons at the game. The football team will again show its support by wearing pink accessories on the field.
Proceeds from “Pink Out” shirt sales directly benefit the Warsaw Cheer Block Cancer Care Fund, which provides resources and encouragement to Warsaw Community Schools’ staff, students and families facing cancer. Last year, the fund supported more than 20 families in the district. Kari Vilamaa, Tri Kappa, Lutheran Health Network and Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital offered support that is helping to make “Pink Out Night” possible.
FIGHT
2024 “Pink Out Night” at Warsaw Community
Cheer Block Cancer Care Fund, which
in
school district. Photo provided by Warsaw Community Schools.
Fall Farming
Farmers hoping to restore soil health with regenerative agriculture
By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer
When Russell Anderson attended Purdue University in the 1990s, he said, he was taught it would take over a century to restore the organic matter in Indiana’s soil to where it had been at the state’s founding in 1816, about 8%.
“We realize now that if we give the soil biology a hand, we’re not going to jump back to 8% organic matter, but we can stop the bleeding,” Anderson went on.
Anderson and other area farmers try to achieve better environmental outcomes through regenerative agriculture.
Regenerative agriculture involves farming practices focusing on restoring and maintaining soil health, for the benefit of farmland and the surrounding environment.
Anderson is a first-generation farmer, who began farming in 1989, and earned an agronomy degree from Purdue. His farm is 100% notill or strip till, and uses cover crops on all its land.
“I’ve always tried to be a conservation-minded farmer,” said Anderson.
He had experimented with cover crops and the no-till method before, but found it wasn’t enough for him.
“We were just getting storm events that were creating a tremendous amount of soil movement, much more than I was comfortable
with, and it just didn’t sit real well with me,” he recalled.
By chance, he happened across a podcast by certified professional soil scientist, Ray Archuleta, also known as Ray the Soil Guy.
“The soil is alive; there’s a tremendous amount of life in the soil.
Traditional agricultural practices haven’t always been the most friendly to soil health. He was talking about no till, less disturbance, more diversity,” Anderson explained.
With his interest piqued, Anderson continued to research and slowly implemented more regenerative techniques on his land.
“We started to see positive benefits pretty quickly,” he remarked.
With cover crops, he said, “above ground plant material helps prevent water and wind erosion, because it acts like blanket over the soil. But then the roots that we don’t see, that’s incredibly important for soil health.”
Crop roots exude photosynthates out into the soils, which microbes feed on.
With only corn and soybeans, there isn’t much variety in photosynthates. A more diverse crop mix creates a more diverse soil biome.
Anderson Farms is in the Wawasee watershed and the southern edge of the Great Lakes Water Basin, the largest fresh water source in the world, making water quality a concern.
“(Regenerative agriculture) is also reducing the runoff into our lakes and streams, reducing the runoff of unwanted nutrients. It’s a healthy spot for lakes and a healthier spot for soil, and it should hopefully allow (farmers) to grow bigger and healthier crops,” he said.
After rain events, fertilizer chemicals phosphorous and nitrogen wash from farmers’ fields into local waterways, nourishing algae blooms that pose a hazard to other plants, fish, and even humans and their pets who want to swim.
The problem is familiar to local water health experts. When the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation was concerned with the water quality of Lake Wawasee, it asked Dr. Jerry Sweeten of Ecosystems Connections to take a look.
Over the past seven years, Ecosystems Connections has conducted research for its Wawasee Inlets Nutrient Study.
“In terms of nature time, that’s very short,” Sweeten said, but “as we began to work with farmers, we began to see more regenerative agriculture, more people around the
lake becoming aware.”
With the research relatively young, it’s hard to make a definitive statement on how much water quality has improved or worsened; however, Sweeten noted Dillon Creek, near Anderson Farms, has shown a decrease in phosphorous and nitrogen levels.
Like anything else, Anderson
said, regenerative agriculture practices have pros and cons. With cover crops, there are added pressures from weeds, disease and insects. Once corn and beans are planted, cover crops also need to be sprayed with herbicides very soon after, so they’re not competing with cash crops.
Continued on page 10
GROWING STRONG Russell Anderson stands in one of his soybean fields. He reports his soybean yields have consistently gone up by three to six bushels an acre. Photos by Lilli Dwyer.
Fall Farming
Corn, soybean crops fairing well so far
By PHOEBE MUTHART Editor
This year’s corn and soybeans crops seems to be doing well so far, according to two local farmers and an extension educator.
For corn, this area is expecting high yields despite some evidence of fungal diseases tar spot and southern rust, said Brent Reed, a Nappanee farmer.
As for soybeans, Reed said he is “expecting average yields, it’s but hard to tell.”
Corn crops have experienced unusually consistent rains throughout the usually dry sum-
mer months. He said kernels are filling ears completely, and there is deeper kernel depth. Reed said he is predicting better test weight.
With soybeans, plants struggled early on getting a good start, Reed said.
“We had a wet and cool (environment) early in the growing season, but late-season rains came timely, so that may make up for the slow start in the spring,” Reed said.
Reed said he expects high yields for corn, and average yields for soybeans.
“Overall, revenue is expected to be down due to rising input costs and low- commodity prices
this year,” Reed said.
Russell Anderson of Cromwell said he agreed. He has been a farmer for 31 years. He grows corn, soybeans and wheat with his son. Anderson said “things look good” for the most part, for corn and soybeans.
“Summer was warmer than normal,” Reed said. “I expect yields to be above average.”
Pro Farmer estimates the 2025 U.S. corn crop at 16.204 billion bushels based on an average yield of 182.7 bu. per acre, which is down from USDA’s August estimate of 188.8 bu. per acre.
“It’s a good corn crop and a Continued on page 11
Farmers hoping to
Continued from page 9
“We’ve made major modifications to our planters ... we’re asking a lot more of that crop and that planter to get through that mini jungle and still yield what a clean-tilled field would,” he mentioned.
Equipment demands are also made by strip-tilling, which involves tilling only long, narrow sections of a field and planting strictly within those sections, leaving the rest untouched. A remarkably high degree of GPS accuracy is needed to plant exactly within those tilled strips.
Still, Anderson has seen positive results with these methods.
“Our soybean yields have very consistently come up a good three to six bushels, probably, maybe even more. Corn yields, we haven’t done very much side-by-side comparison, but we are very pleased with our corn yields. We don’t have any indication they’ve suffered from what we used to do in a traditional sense.”
While Anderson would like to see more farmers implementing regenerative agriculture, he understands it can be a risky move when they depend on crop yields for their livelihood.
“For us, if we were to lose three bushels an acre, we would lose $10,000 in revenue. A small change in yield can have a big impact in a farmer’s bottom line. To ask a 2,000 to 3,000-acre farmer to make a big shift in what they’re doing and maybe risk three bushels, maybe risk 30 bushels, it’s a big swallow,” he said. He emphasized he doesn’t see an “us vs. them” with other farmers.
“What I’m hoping is that when my son and daughter are my age, instead of farming 2.5%, they’re farming 3.5%. If we can increase the organic soil matter by 1%, it can hold an extra 30,000 gallons of water per acre every rain event, which is essentially like banking water in the soil for dry weather,” he concluded.
HARVEST TIME Brent Reed, a Nappanee farmer, prepares for harvest time this fall. He said he anticipates a good yield for corn and soybeans. Photo by Phoebe Muthart.
Carlin Family Farm honored with sesquicentennial designation
By LAUREN ZEUGNER Staff Writer
The Carlin Farm, owned by Marvin Michael, was one of several Kosciusko County farms honored at the Indiana State Fair. The farm received a sesquicentennial designation.
To receive the designation, families had to provide proof of family lineage that property taxes were paid and the farm earned an income since it was founded.
When the family photo was taken with Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith, Michael made sure a great-nephew, Carson Yensel, 7, and his mother, Jeanine Micheal, 92, were in the front. Yensel’s dad wants to be the next to own the land.
The farm is owned on Jeanine Michael’s side of the family. Stephen Fischer, who was born in Ohio, came to Kosciusko County in 1838. He and his son, James, cleared several hundred acres to homestead. James’ daughter, Carlinda, took over running the farm and then it went to Lizzie, Jeanine Michael’s grandmother. Jeanine Michael’s brothers, Wind-
Corn
Continued from page 10
good bean crop this year,” said Chip Flory, host of AgriTalk and western Crop Tour leader. “Neither crop is without risk between now and the end of kernel and pod fill because of the disease-ripe environment, but both crops have done a lot of the heavy lifting to build good yields.”
Pro Farmer estimates the 2025 U.S. soybean crop at 4.246 billion bushels with a national average yield of 53.0 bu. per acre, down from the 53.6 bu. per acre, USDA estimated in August.
Locally, Mark Evans, a Plant and Soil Science Purdue Extension Educator, Agriculture Field Extension for Elkhart County, said the crops don’t look too bad.
“Our crop yields might be decent, but prices are bad,” he said. “The price per bushel is very low.”
It comes down to moisture, Evans said.
“Too much moisture and it spoils the beans and corn,” he said.
For Elkhart County. at least, precipitation is down.
“We could have more yields with (more) rain,” Evans stressed.
For more information, visit incornandsoy.org.
Marvin
burn and Norman, took over the farm with Windburn drawing up a contract to keep the farm in the family.
Norman was a chiropractor, so he asked Marvin Micheal if he’d be interested in taking over the contract. In 1979, Marvin Michael and his wife moved onto the farm.
Marvin Micheal said the original farm was 56 acres, but over the years they purchased 88 acres from a neighbor. He said he thought the 88-acre parcel the neighbor owned may at one time had been part of the Carlin farm and was sold during the Great Depression.
Marvin Micheal noted a neighbor has a 1837 sign, so he wonders if back then the state offered a deal to have people homestead in the northern part of the state.
Jeanine Micheal has memories of the old farmhouse her grandmother lived in.
“She never met a stranger,” she said.
The original house suffered a fire in 1949-1950.
Today, Marvin Micheal runs a
small herd of beef cattle and raises Belgian horses. He also grows about 60 acres of soybeans.
“When I was a kid, a neighbor showed up with (a wagon and Belgian horse team) ... It just fascinated me. He drove a (team of) six),” he said of the horses.
He breeds Belgians for show horses, having three to four foals a year.
ORIGINAL PART OF THE FARM Ben, Jeanine and Marvin Michael stand in front of the old milk house at Carlin Farms. The farm has been passed down through Michael’s family for over 150 years. In August, the family was honored at the Indiana State Fair with a sesquicentennial designation.
Michael, who owns the farm now, said a nephew wants to continue the farming tradition on the property. Photo by Lauren Zeugner.
ALL IN THE FAMILY
Mike and Sarah Hertsel are shown with their children, Elizabeth, George, Caroline, and Nicholas.
Photo provided by Sarah Hertsel.
By PHOEBE MUTHART Editor
are easier than dairy,” he said. “It just fits my schedule.”
Since 2001, Hertsel Berkshire
Farm has committed to serving high-quality protein made exclusively from the finest Berkshire hogs.
The couple have lived on different farms over the years. One was south of Nappanee, then they moved to Syracuse to work on a family farm with Dennis Darr. However, they knew they wanted to move back to Nappanee and they had a specific farm in mind as one of Mike Hertsel’s mentors lived there.
After speaking with someone at their church, the opportunity to buy the house and farm they wanted became a reality in 2018.
They now have about 30 sows, 160 hogs and two Jersey cows.
“They (hogs) have provided us an avenue to market our pork directly to our customers,” said Mike Hertsel. “Our customers are the families that eat our products and we take great pride in providing them a premium product at an affordable price.”
The couple are first-generation farmers, meaning neither of them grew up on family farms.
“My dream of becoming a farmer became reality my senior year of high school in 2001. I rented a farm just outside of Nappanee from a retired hog farmer and bought my first Berkshire pigs with money I had saved from my after- school job of milking cows,” said Mike Hertsel.
Now they live on that same farm and continue to raise Berkshire pigs, along with raising their four children.
The Hertsels raise Berkshire hogs for several reasons.
“Berkshire hogs are a heritage breed. They are the oldest registered swine breed in the United States,” Mike Hertsel said.
Berkshires are more of a red meat with shorter muscle fibers, and a better ability to retain moisture through the cooking process. These qualities enhance the flavor and help make Berkshire pork more of a tender, juicy product compared to what one would typically purchase from a grocery store.
Berkshire pork has been widely recognized by chefs for its exceptional meat quality and is often showcased in restaurants.
The Hertsels sell their products at the Winona Lake farmers market and Miller’s Orchards in Nappanee.
Mike Hertsel works a full-time job and spends countless hours raising the hogs with his wife and children. His goal is to grow the business into a more profitable one.
He said raising hogs teaches good Continued on page 13
FEEDING TIME Mike Hertsel feeds his Berkshire hogs at his farm east of Nappanee. It has been a lifelong dream for the NorthWood High School graduate. Photo by Phoebe Muthart.
Creighton Family Farms honored with centennial, sesquicentennial designations
By LAUREN ZEUGNER Staff Writer
Mindy Creighton Truex went to seek a centennial designation for the family farm, Creighton Family Farms. The process took her about six months to find all the necessary records. In the end, her family was honored with not only a centennial award, but also a sesquicentennial award for a second property.
Creighton Truex said she focused on where the family farm started. Hobart Creighton, the oldest of six children, offered his siblings an opportunity to invest in ownership of a farm. The property, located near Atwood, was purchased in 1922. Hobart married in 1923 and the farm officially started in 1925.
Creighton Truex spent time at the Old Jail Museum combing through documents in the museum’s library as well as searching online. She hoped for the family to receive the designation at a ceremony at the statehouse, since her father was a state representative for 16 years. Unfortunately, she missed the deadline for the March event. The family was honored in August at the Indiana State Fair.
As part of the process, Creighton Truex had to document every property transfer from one family member to the next. She also had to document the relationship of those involved in the property transfer. A cousin, who had done a lot of genealogy research, helped with the documenting.
“Finding all these documents is an incredible process,” she said.
In the end, she researched two Creighton-owned farms.
Hobart and Russell Creighton’s farm, which is where the egg business got started, received a centen-
Continued from page 12
“This
or their Instagram or Facebook.
nial designation. An uncle’s farm received a sesquicentennial designation.
Hobart and Russell started out with hogs, but when they were ready for market, the bottom fell out of the pork market. A church friend, who was already raising poultry, encouraged the Creighton brothers to switch to poultry.
Creighton Truex explained this was not an easy decision for the brothers, as it takes about 18 weeks before chicks are old enough to lay eggs.
The brothers decided to switch to poultry and the families shared what they could to sustain themselves until they had eggs to sell.
The brothers took extension courses, read anything they could about poultry and Russell even spent a year studying at Purdue.
From there, they developed the highest-ranking leghorn breed in just over 10 years. In the 1950s, the brothers sold the genetics to another business and focused on the hatchery. Today, the farm has approximately 3 million laying hens and 9,000 acres of farm ground, all in Kosciusko County.
In addition to fresh eggs, Creigh-
ton Brothers also has a frozen/liquid egg product business. These products are used by food manufacturers across the country.
Creighton Truex said she wasn’t sure what to expect at the desig-
nation ceremony. She provided photos and stories. She also heard how some families came in with a theme for their photo, such as wearing all the same color shirt.
The ceremony went county by
county with each family called up to receive their banners and signs. There is a sign at the original site of Hobart and Russell’s farm, even though the farmhouse is no longer standing.
HONORED FARMS Shown are members of Creighton Brothers Farms with the banners and certificates they received designating two family farms as a centennial and sesquicentennial farm.
From left are Cody Long, operations manager; Steve Miller, general manager; Jill Miller, Ron Truex, chairman of the board; Mindy Creighton Truex, president; Gail Buhr, Ron Buhr and Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith. Photo provided by Mindy Creighton Truex.
Fall Farming
Watershed Foundation assists farmers through soil health initiative
By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer
“The Watershed (Foundation) helps secure funding so all landowners — farmers, property owners just with yards, business and industry — can work to prevent soil erosion,” stated Watershed Manager Mariah Roberts.
Through its soil health initiative, TWF provides technical and financial assistance to farmers within the Tippecanoe Watershed.
The 236-square-mile Upper Tippecanoe River Watershed contains more than 60 lakes. With 76% of the land within the watershed dedicated to agriculture, the relationship between soil health and water quality is of great importance to both conservationists and landowners.
“In terms of water quality, we want to keep the soil out of water. But in reality, whoever owns the
land should also be concerned because the best soil is on top. Well, what washes away? The soil on top,” Roberts noted.
TWF can help farmers implement soil health-friendly techniques, such as no-till planting, cover crops, and different methods of nutrient and pest management.
Ways to manage water flow include adding buffers or water and sediment control basins to a farm.
“Buffers and control drains are really all about helping water slow down, so slowing down the velocity of the water, and then helping it get where it’s supposed to go without taking soil with it,” Roberts explained.
An example of a buffer would be planting native grass along a cornfield to catch runoff from the field.
“We’re on the continental divide so the water we get goes all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. There’s a lot of industry and recreation all the way
down, and wildlife obviously rely on clean water, too,” Roberts mentioned. Since its inception in 1997, TWF has handled 348 projects. It partners with a professional engineer for each one, and local contractors help with things, like excavating and tiling. Cost-sharing depends on the funding TWF is able to secure, but can be up to 75%.
Sherm Bryant, a Syracuse area farmer and recipient of the River Friendly Farmer Award, had a waterway installed with a cost-share program offered by TWF in 2018.
“It sure makes a difference after a big rain,” Bryant said.
“I’ve seen this (area) full after a big rain,” added his daughter, Cathy Bryant. With the grassed waterway, she said, “there’s less puddles in the field and less having to replant.”
The project included a total of three water and sediment control basins, an underground outlet and the grassed waterway.
at the Bryant Farm. Through its soil health initiative, TWF provides financial and technical assistance to landowners who want to make their land more resilient. Photo by Lilli Dwyer.
“This project has saved 625.5 tons of sediment per year, 586.6 pounds of phosphorous, and 1,168.1 pounds of nitrogen from Lake Tippecanoe, and the Tippecanoe River, and ul-
timately the Gulf as well,” stated Roberts.
Roberts also mentioned TWF hosts farmer breakfasts to educate interested farmers on soil health.
“Honestly, if somebody just wanted information, we’d be happy to come out, especially if they have a specific field or concern. We can look at any data they might have and the field conditions, whether that be gulleys or soil erosion or ponding, and then we can talk about options for how to improve their situation, so they can continue feeding the world while implementing soil health and conservation practices,” she said.
To learn more about the soil health initiative, visit watershedfoundation.org, call (574) 834-3242 or contact Roberts at mariah@watershedfoundation.org
Anyone is welcome to sign up for the TWF newsletter at watershedfoundation.org/news.
INcredible!
See how Interra plants the seeds of success at interracu.com/ag
LOCAL EXPERT Mariah Roberts explains The Watershed’s work
•
•
•
•
•
•
Terry Edward Frank Teacher/Coach
Terry Edward Frank went home to Jesus Friday, Sept. 19, 2025.
He was born May 1, 1942, in La Porte, the first of four sons of Steve and Doris Frank. He and his beloved first wife, Judy, were blessed with two sons, Tad and Kelly Frank.
What a loving, hard-working, generous man Terry was. At gatherings, he was the fun one that would take time to play with all the kids. He loved Jesus, football, popcorn, mayonnaise and hard butter. Traveling and serving/helping others in the church and community brought him joy.
Terry graduated from LaPorte High School, Ball State University and University of New Mexico, pursuing a teaching/coaching career at Northwestern High School, Wawasee High School and Warsaw High School. He was also an adjunct professor at Bethel College. Mathematics, driver education and coaching football/wrestling were his educational endeavors.
Terry and his second beloved wife, Debbie, shared 30 years together. What a terrific stepdad he was to daughters, Holy Knoble, Heather Hart, Heidi Hart and Hope Niemier. Their 24 grandchildren and three greats provided a myriad of heart-warming memories.
A celebration of Terry’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 17, at Leesburg Grace Church, Leesburg.
William George Kausal
Retired From Ford Motor Company
William George Kausal, 90, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Friday, Sept. 19, 2025, at Hubbard Hill in Elkhart, with his family by his side.
He was born on March 7, 1935, in Chicago, Ill., the son of Wilbur and Irene Ahrens (Nyman). He will be fondly remembered for his kindness, skill and the love he shared with those around him.
Bill dedicated over 30 years of his life to the Ford Motor Company, where his commitment and hard work were greatly admired. He retired in 1982, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and integrity.
On June 18, 1955, Bill married Rae VanVlyman. Together, they raised their family in Dolton, Ill., where he grew up. After his retirement, his family moved to Dewart Lake, where he and Rae lived for 55 years. Bill and Rae enjoyed spending winters in Bonita Springs, Fla., where they made lifelong friends.
Known for his ability to build and fix anything, he possessed an impressive collection of tools and a mindset that saw every challenge as an opportunity. His tinkering often led him to spend considerable time in his garage, where he would immerse himself in various projects, demonstrating a remarkable skill for crafting.
Bill embraced gardening in the summers, showcasing his green thumb through meticulously planted vegetables and flowers. He found joy in simple pleasures, such as watching western movies and piecing together jigsaw puzzles. He crafted a puzzle board with a puzzle always in progress.
He is survived by his children, Bill (Cathy) Kausal, Carlene Kausal Witowski and Mike Kausal. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Nick (Leah), Michael and Zachary, as well as his great-grandchildren, Milo and Mia.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Rae; son-in-law, Ed Witowski; and daughter-in-law, Audrey.
Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse, 1001 S. Huntington St., Syracuse, is entrusted with Bill’s care. No services are planned as the family is grieving privately. He will be laid to rest beside his wife.
To leave a condolence, please visit TitusFuneralHome.com.
Roger Fetters
U.S. Army Veteran
Roger Fetters, 90, Syracuse, passed away Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, at his home.
He was born on Aug. 10, 1935, in Wolf Lake, to Floyd and Zoe Fetters. On Feb. 14, 1959, he married Darlene Lung, who survives.
Roger served as a paratrooper for four years in the U.S. Army. He retired from Weatherhead/ DANA after 47 years of service. He served as an officer of the Pioneer Club and president of the local UAW Union. He was named Veteran of the Month of Kosciusko County in 2016. He was selected to be on The Honor Flight with Guardian Ashley James in 2018.
Along with his wife of 66 years, Darlene Fetters, Roger leaves behind special friends, Adam, Ashley, Lulie and Olsen James.
He was preceded in death by his parents; children, Roger Jr. “Pete” in 2011, Bill Allen in 2000 and Jo Ellen in 1960.
Services for Roger were held at noon Saturday, Sept. 27, at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse. Calling was two hours prior to the service from 10 a.m. until noon.
Memorial contributions may be made to Northeast Indiana Honor Flight.
Leland Bollhorst
Leland “Lee” Bollhorst, 88, North Webster, died Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne. Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of North Webster.
2026 Elkhart County 4-H Fair theme, logo revealed
The Elkhart County 4-H Fair unveiled its official theme and logo for the 2026 fair during the annual fair board banquet held Wednesday, Sept. 17 The 2026 Fair Board President Jason Wogoman revealed the new design alongside his wife, Tracy, and daughter, Tenille.
Wogoman shared the theme “Driven by Purpose, Powered by Community” reflects the heart of the fair’s mission and the people behind it. He stated, “Driven by purpose means the fair is here for more than just a nine-day event. We are here to serve youth, agriculture and families. Powered by community reminds us that this fair only happens because thousands of people come together to make it possible.”
HATTON-SADLER FUNERAL CHAPELS
“Our families serving your family with professionalism, compassion and care.” Pierceton and Warsaw
Wogoman brings a strong personal connection to the role. A third-generation fair board member of six years, he is also a retired firefighter and small business owner. His experience has shown him how purpose and community can change lives. That belief continues to guide his leadership.
The newly-revealed logo visually reflects the 2026 theme by balancing tradition with forward
momentum. The design incorporates elements, which represent agriculture family and progress while also emphasizing unity and inclusiveness. It serves as a reminder the fair is more than an event. It is a community gathering celebrating shared values and a bright future.
To learn more about the Elkhart County 4H Fair and upcoming events, visit 4hfair.org.
Tyler James Mast
Lamar and Doris (Bontrager)
Mast, Etna Green, are the parents of a son, Tyler James, born Sept. 20, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 7 pounds, 5.8 ounces, and was 19 1/4 inches long.
Rita Emmilene Schmucker
Fred and Amy Schmucker, Nappanee, are the parents of a daughter, Rita Emmilene, born at 1:42 a.m. Sept. 22, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 5 pounds, 15 ounces, and was 18 1/2 inches long.
Noah A. Crespo Soto
Lizvette Soto and Paul A. Crespo, Ligonier, are the parents of a son, Noah A., born at 3:25 p.m. Sept. 21, 2025, at Goshen Hospital. He weighed 7 pounds, 3. 6 ounces, and was 19 1/2 inches long.
Marcia Ramer
Johnny and Samantha (Ramer) Ramer, Wakarusa, are the parents
of a daughter, Marcia, born at 11:27 p.m. Sept. 24, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 8 pounds, 8 ounces, and was 19 inches long.
Maternal grandparents are Lawrence and Ada Ramer, Goshen. Paternal grandparents are Lyle and Alma Ramer, Wakarusa.
Marcia joins two siblings: Erin and Kenneth.
Benjamin Marc Schwartz
Marcus and Sheryl Schwartz, Nappanee, are the parents of a son, Benjamin Marc, born at 12:57 p.m. Sept. 25, 2025, at Goshen Hospital. He weighed 8 pounds, 8.4 ounces, and was 21 inches long.
Amara Lynn Kauffman
Sam and Abbagayle Kauffman, Syracuse, are the parents of a daughter, Amara Lynn, born at 1:09 p.m. Sept. 25, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 5 pounds, 6 ounces, and was 18 1/4 inches long.
TERRY EDWARD FRANK
ROGER FETTERS
WILLIAM GEORGE KAUSAL
2026 FAIR THEME ANNOUNCED — Shown are Tracy Wogoman, left, Tenille Wogoman and Jason Wogoman, who will serve as the 2026 Elkhart County 4-H Fair president with the new theme and logo. The theme will be “Driven by Purpose, Powered by Community.” Photo provided by the Elkhart County Fair Office.
C ounty R epo R t
Court News
Small Claims
The following small claims have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:
Vanderpool Law Firm PC v. Matthew Hall, $1,799
Indiana Physical Therapy v. Dennis K. Lewis, $252.97
Fort Financial Credit Union v. Jody E. Mast, $9,153.74; v. Debra Swafford, $9,478.55
Snow & Sauerteig LLP v. Saundra Sajek, $442.70
Civil Collections
The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler presiding:
Stone Creek Financial v. Noah Abbott, $7,355.34
Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Taven Allen, $10,717.59
Prestige Financial Services Inc. v. Bethany Leann Boros, $24,744.58; v. Kimber M. Boyd, Nickolas D. Boyd, $27,100.77
Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. Matthew C. Brabec, $1,097.77
Glenbrook Credit Acceptance Corp. v. David R. Cameron, $12,353.14
Jefferson Capital Systems LLC v. Ryan Coquillard, $620.16; v. Michael Myers, $816.25; v. Joseph Wood, $651.24
Midland Credit Management Inc. v. Carlos Garcia, $2,726.97; v. Matthew Grieser, $1,623.76; v. Dylan Hoffman, $1,170.36;v. Michael Karr, $998.07; v. Norma G. Monk, $830.33; v. Keith A. Nickerson, $1,115.83; v. O. Villalta Rodriguez, $1,116.17
Citibank NA v. Lois Hern, $1,812.98
CommunityWide Federal Credit Union v. Shannon M. Kryder, $11,504.61; v. Griffin E. Roark, $12,210.45; v. Danny L. and Toni A. Willard, $15,993.41
Theresa Wilson, $12,751.05
Goshen Hospital Association Inc. v. Justin Kenneth Pedler, $2,237.90; v. Jasmine Ponce Gutierrez, $2,273.27
One Advantage LLC v. Paul H. Pinkowski, $3,193.39 Evictions
The following eviction has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Mecks Whispering Pines v. Guadalupe Cuahuizo, $145 Superior Court III
The following fines for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:
Speeding — Katie K. Bailey, Warsaw, $164.50; Rebecca J. Watson, Warsaw, $164.50; Yashvanth Kasthala, Warsaw, $164.50; Hunter I. Tinkey, Syracuse, $164.50; Daniel Sandoval, Winona Lake, $164.50; Adalberto A. Barrera-Arizmendi, Warsaw, $164.50; Brenna C. Brown, Syracuse, $164.50; Lauri A. Skeans, Warsaw, $164.50; John Z. Etter, Huntington, $164.50
No valid driver’s license — Nancy H. Sideris, Warsaw, $164.50
Permitting unlawful operation of a motorboat — Nathan D. Schrock, Nappanee, $164
Insufficient personal flotation devices — Michael W. Snavely Jr., New Paris, $164
Window tint violation by driver, vehicle windows tinted too dark — Davante E. Hollins, Syracuse, $164.50
Disregarding lighted signal — Steven Littlejohn, Warsaw, $164.50
Disregarding stop sign — Maxwell A. Oberg, Warsaw, $164.50; Janet K. Miller, Warsaw, $164.50
Holding or using a telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle — Anthony Um, 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: Baker-Goon
Alexis Nicole Baker, 28, Winona Lake, and David M. Goon, 28, Warsaw
Haywood-Webb
Charles J. Haywood, 52, Syracuse, and Rebecca Leah Webb, 49, Syracuse
Spitler-McCabe
Rebecca Colleen Spitler, 21, Warsaw, and Bret Joseph McCabe, 26, Warsaw
Hunt-Trusty
William Dale Hunt, 51, Claypool, and Rhonda Sue Trusty, 49, Claypool Matamoros-Graham
Jose Matamoros, 36, North Manchester, and Emily Graham, 40, North Manchester
Miller-Kuhns
Velda L. Miller, 23, Goshen, and Omer Lee Kuhns, 35, Etna Green
DeFries-Rapp
Zachary Richard DeFries, 36, Warsaw, and Chelsea Morgan Rapp, 35, Warsaw
Gunkel-Gunkel
Kenneth Jordan Gunkel, 54, North Webster, and Tabitha Karyn Gunkel, 57, North Webster Rubalcava–Castillo-Martinez
Agustin Rubalcava, 29, Winona Lake, and Alexandra Castillo-Martinez, 31, Winona Lake Kinch-Wright
Joseph C. Kinch, 54, Claypool, and Sarah L. Wright, 33, Bourbon Greene-Dallen
Natalie May Greene, 28, Warsaw, and Austin Ray Dallen, 32, Warsaw Hunsberger-Courson
Kirk Hunsberger, 64, Warsaw, and Sheri Courson, 64, Warsaw Lucio-Jimenez Mazariegos
Jose I. Lucio, 44, Warsaw, and Yesenia Martina Jimenez Mazariegos, 26, Warsaw Garcia-Conde
Sebastian Lee Garcia, 19, Twentynine Palms, Calif., and Mariana Isabel Conde, 19, Warsaw Ochoa-Ferrer
Melanie Ochoa, 22, Warsaw, and Alyelberth Ferrer, 19, Warsaw Conway-Royer
Kelly Marie Conway, 42, Syracuse, and Drew Stephen Royer, 41, Syracuse Miller-Taylor
Carly Miller, 24, Warsaw, and Jared Taylor, 30, Warsaw Conrad-King
Sheila Marie Conrad, 60, Syracuse, and Todd Andrew King, 59, Tekonsha, Mich. Schwartz-Kramer
Mary Esther Schwartz, 21, Etna Green, and Eric John Kramer, 23, Bremen
Marriage Dissolutions
The following couples have filed for a marriage dissolution in Kosciusko Superior Courts I or IV: McCallum-Rumple — James McCallum, Plymouth, and Sarah Kay Rumple, Plymouth. They were married Oct. 1, 2011, and separated in October 2021. Two minor child(ren).
Hunt — Latasha Hunt, Warsaw, and Jamie Hunt, Warsaw. They were married July 25, 2009; no separation date given. Three minor child(ren).
Holden — Brandon Holden, Warsaw, and Diamond Holden, Warsaw. They were married Jan. 7, 2017, and separated Feb. 1, 2024. One minor child. Burbrink — Rachel Burbrink, Warsaw, and Aaron Burbrink, Warsaw. They were married June 18, 2005, and separated Feb. 1, 2025. Three minor child(ren).
Hatter — Brenda Hatter, Warsaw, and Tony Hatter, Warsaw. They were married Oct. 22, 2023, and separated Sept. 5, 2025. No minor child(ren).
Gallegos — Juan Carlos Gallegos, Warsaw, and Jamie Lynn Gallegos, Warsaw. They were married April 21, 2018, and separated Sept. 1, 2025. No minor child(ren).
Knepper — Mathew Steven Knepper, Leesburg, and Laura Marie Knepper, Leesburg. They were married July 2, 2011, and separated June 4, 2025. No minor child(ren).
Parke-Childs — Caleb Parke, Warsaw, and Shaila Childs, Sevierville, Tenn. They were married April 29, 2025; no separation date given. No minor child(ren).
BANCI hosts 38th annual Homes on Parade Celebration gala
By LAUREN ZEUGNER Staff Writer
Builders from throughout Kosciusko gathered for the 38th annual Homes on Parade Celebration gala held Thursday night, Sept. 25, and hosted by the Builders Association of North Central Indiana. It was also a night where several new awards were handed out, along with the coveted People’s Choice Awards.
Thomas Burnworth, president of Milestone Construction and the BANCI board of directors, said: “We’re grateful for the community support and generous sponsors,” as he thanked those who helped make this year’s Homes on Parade a success.
Special guests for the night were Ryan Baker, president of the Indiana Builders Association and State Rep. Craig Snow.
Renewal Homes was the clear favorite with the judges as it took home awards for Best Exterior, Best Interior, Judges Choice and the coveted People’s Choice Award. Criteria for the Best Exterior award were recognized for the home with the most outstanding and well-executed design. Judges considered curb appeal, material choices and architectural cohesion. The Best Interior Award recognized the home that showcases the highest level of design, flow and finishing touches. Judges looked at style, consistency, livability and overall presentation.
The Judge’s Choice award was a special recognition selected by the judges. This award went to a home that left a lasting impression based on its quality and overall craftsmanship.
Brett Harter, past president of the Indiana Builders Association, presented the People’s Choice
SWEPT THE FIELD
— Renewal Homes swept the BANCI awards presented Thursday, Sept. 25, taking home three along with the coveted People’s Choice Award. Shown from left are Krista Shoemaker, Krista Lynn Design; Christine Brown, office manager, Renewal Homes; Casey Kline, project manager, Renewal Homes; and Wendell and Diane Miller, owners, Renewal Homes. Photo by Lauren Zeugner.
Award explaining, “Every home tells a story and the award resonates the most with the public.”
TL Jackson Construction received the award for Best Kitchen. Criteria for the Best Kitchen included outstanding design, functionality and craftsmanship in a kitchen area. Judges considered layout, innovation
and finishes.
Coplen Construction took the Member Champion Award. The Member Champion Award is given to the builder who has shown exceptional support of fellow association members.
Judges included professionals from outside the area to ensure impartiality and fresh perspectives. Judges viewed the homes Sept. 18, the day before Homes on Parade opened to the public.
Plaques were also given out to High Ridge Homes, Ideal Construction, Coplen Construction, Renewal Homes, JayH Construction LLC, TL Jackson Construction and to Habitat for Humanity for a hard-hat preview entry.
Bill Hays, who recently retired from Blue River Digital, was presented an honorary membership into BANCI for his tireless work “mentoring and advising the next generation.”
Also recognized was Kim McKibbin, executive officer. McKibbin will be retiring and this was her last Homes on Parade.
C LASSIFIED A DVERTISING
Maximum
BUYERBEWAREThePapersIncorporatedcannotscreenalladvertisements toeliminatepossibilitiesoffraudor misleadinginformation.Ifitsoundstoo goodtobetrue,itusuallyis.Persons respondingtoadsareadvisedtocontact theBetterBusinessBureauinyourareaor theIndianaSecretaryofState’sFraud Hotlinebeforesendinganymoney. 1-800-223-8791
Please take the time to make sure your classified ad is correct. The Papers Incorporated will not be responsible for errors in ads after the first
Ad position other than classification is not guaranteed. • ALL CLASSIFIED ADS MUST BE
commercial and industrial. Bobcat, dumpsters and burn barrels available also.
Garage Sales A040
15-FAMILYGARAGESALE,October 2,3,4,8am-5pm.Lotsofmens/womens/ childrensbrandnameclothing,shoesall sizes,babyitems,household/decoritems, furniture,muchmisc.28150CR52,Nappanee,DebTruex.
GARAGESALE-COMBINED2HOUSESINTO1.Sellingextrasofa, diningroomtable/chairs,kitchentable, roomACs,mowers,bikes,ping-pong table,more.Cash/Checkonly.Sat./ Sun.,Oct.4-5,9am-4pm.501N.Lake Street,Syracuse.
TREETRIMMING,treeandstumpremovalservice,stormdamagecleanup, treeclimbingorbucketlift,Freeestimates. DanTheTreeMan.574-831-4381,New Paris.
CLASSIFIEDSWORK
LUMBERJACKJIMTREESERVICEProfessionaltreetrimmingandremoval. Stormdamagecleanup.Safeandreliable. Fullyinsured.Locallyowned.Call 574-371-6536.
FRESHCALFMULCHFORSALE.Callfor availabilityandpricing.ClosetoMillersburg.574-354-3511
Kosciusko County
P ublic A uctions
Online Building Material
And Industrial Supply Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 2. Preview 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, located at 416 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. Bid online at bid.kraftauctions.com.
Public Auction
3:30 p.m. Located 4 miles west of Nappanee on US 6 to Beech Road, south 1¼ miles to Third Road, west to first residence on south side of the road at 1075 Third Road, Bremen.
Grosse Real Estate Auction
6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2. Open house 4-6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 18. Located at 69735 CR 21, New Paris. Ranch house with shop on 1.2
acres. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Land Auction
6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2. Located at Claypool Lions Club, 201 W Calhoun St. Property located west from SR 15 to 700S, turn northeast on Beaver Dam Road, on north side. 75.5 acres tillable, woods and recreation, in three tracts. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction. com.
Public Auction
3 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7. Located at 7½ miles south of Nappanee on SR 19 to 750N, west 1¼ miles to 9135 W. 750N, Etna Green.
Witman Real Estate And Personal Property Auction
4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7. Located
at 13522 N. 400W, Milford. House on 3 acres. Vehicle, riding mower, air compressor, furniture and household items. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Phares Land Auction
6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9. Located at United Methodist Connection Center, 466 Townline Road, Ligonier. Property located at 5411 N. 500W, Ligonier. Tract 1: 35.96 acres with approximately 5 acre building site. Tract 2: 41.75 acres with approx. 5 acre building site. Tract 3: 24 acres with potential building sites. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
David And Kathryn Fry Auction
9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 11. Located
Operation Read Executive Director graduates from fundraising college
Operation Read’s Executive Director DeeAnna Muraski and Board Treasurer Adora Truex recently graduated together from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy’s IU Fundraising College.
The prestigious program, with an intense application process, equips nonprofit leaders with advanced skills in donor engagement, sustainability planning, and strategic fundraising.
“This experience has been transformative for both of us,” said Muraski. “It has given Operation Read the tools to strengthen our fundraising strategies, ensuring our literacy programs continue to grow and serve more families.”
Upcoming Fundraiser
Operation Read invites the community to attend its annual fundraiser, “The Read: Brunch, Books and Bubbly,” from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Oct. 11, at Maple Leaf Farms Corporate Headquarters’
Gym (The Nest).
The event will feature a live band, brunch buffet, mimosas, bookthemed fundraising activities (“Book Wraps”), and a silent auction.
This year’s program highlights keynote speaker and author, Erik Deckers, owner of Professional Blog Service, newspaper humor columnist, and co-author of “Branding Yourself: How to Use Social Media to Invent or Reinvent Yourself,” “The 10 Commandments of Personal Branding,” “No-Hype Guide to Social Media Marketing,” and “The Owned Media Doctrine.”
Deckers is also the author of “Mackinac Island Nation” and the newly-released novel, “Whither, Utopia.”
Funds raised will directly support Operation Read’s literacy programs, including Baby’s First Library, Read to Grow, and Book Boogie. For tickets and information vis-
1 mile south of Topeka on CR 600 W to CR 800S, east 7/8 mile to 5185 W. 800S, Topeka. Fall Spectacular Auction
10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 11. Previews 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10 and 9 a.m. Oct. 11. Located at 416 S. Huntington St., Syracuse.
Stauffer Personal Property And Real Estate Auction
4 p.m. Monday, Oct. 13. Located at 67773 CR 33, Millersburg. House and building on 3 acres. Mower, generator, tools, household items. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Hiller Real Estate Auction
6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14. Located at 66242 Dogwood Road, Wakarusa. 40’ x 90’ pole barn on 39.16 acres. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Westgate Online Gun
And Ammunition Auction
Bidding open until 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15. Pickup located
DEEANNA MURASKI
it operationreadusa.org/theread or contact deeanna@operationreadusa.org.
at 401 S. Oakland Ave., Nappanee. Guns, reloading items and ammunition. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Online Lake Wawasee
Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15. Open house 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 4. Property located at 11683 N. Black Point Road, Syracuse. Bid online at bid. kraftauctions.com.
Online Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 15. Open house 5:30-6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7. Property located at 1307 Oriole Drive, Warsaw. Threebed home with sunroom and twocar garage. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Online Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16. Preview 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15 at 2552 N. 325E, Warsaw. Bid online at bid. kraftauctions.com
Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 800-245-0398
Old guitars wanted! Gibson, Fender, Martin, Etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. Top dollar paid. Call 866-433-8277
Reach millions of homes nationwide with one easy, affordable buy in the ADS Network! For more information: www.communitypublishers.com/category/all-products SunSetter. America's #1 awning! Instant shade at the touch of a button. Transform your deck or patio into an outdoor oasis. Up to 10-year limited warranty. Call now and save $350! 855914-1148
We buy houses for cash as is! No repairs or fuss. Any condition. Easy 3-step process: Call, get cash offer, get paid. Get your fair cash offer today. Liz Buys Houses: 844-877-5833 Portable oxygen concentrator may be covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence & mobility w/the compact design & long-lasting battery. Inogen One free info kit! 877-305-1535 (not available in AL)
Consumer Cellular - same reliable, nationwide coverage as large carriers. No long-term contract or hidden fees, free activation. All plans unlimited talk & text starting at just $20/mo. 877-751-0866
Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Free author`s
Lilly Center education programs receive prestigious Governor’s Award
The Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams was honored to receive the Governor’s Award for environmental education and outreach at a ceremony in Indianapolis last week. This event marks the second occasion the Lilly Center has received this prestigious award for its innovative education programs.
The Governor’s Awards for Environmental Excellence recognize
businesses, organizations, and educational institutions for achievements that positively impact Indiana’s environment, according to the Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s website. These awards are highly competitive, and typically only one award is presented per category.
This year, the Governor’s Awards recognized the Lilly Center’s education programs that are
dedicated to inspiring the next generation of water-literate citizens. The Warren and Augusta Hume Endowed K-12 Education Program aims to create future leaders and residents who will care for Kosciusko County’s lakes and streams.
The Lilly Center’s team of three full-time educators, supported by college interns and partner organizations, makes over 10,000 student
connections every year. Signature programs that incorporate handson, STEM-based learning include Classroom Lake Experience, Lake in the Library, indoor and outdoor field trips, Lake Adventure Day, and the Lilly Center Art Contest. Each program sparks curiosity, deepens appreciation for local waterways, and empowers students to take an active role in protecting the health and beauty
Animal Welfare League
FALL FEST COLORING CONTEST
Age Groups are: 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12
1st Place: $30
2nd Place: $20
3rd Place: $10
of local waterways.
“I am immensely proud of our education team and the amazing work each person does to pass on this legacy of stewardship,” said Dr. Nate Bosch, Creighton Brothers endowed director of the Lilly Center. “We are encouraged by this recognition and are inspired to continue striving for excellence in our educational programs to serve our community better.”
The Lilly Center’s education programs are possible thanks to support from the Zimmer Biomet Foundation, Dekko Foundation, City of Warsaw — Stormwater Utility, and Steel Dynamics Foundation.
Annual
‘Night at the Museum’ to be
held Oct. 11
Nappanee history comes to life when the lights go out. The Nappanee Public Library and the Evelyn Lehman Culp Heritage Collection will present the 14th annual “Night at the Museum: Innovation and Inventions” from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11.
This production is a lights-out, after-hours tour of the ELC Heritage Collection at the Nappanee Center, 302 W. Market St., Nappanee.
During the tour, guides will lead visitors on an interactive, flashlight adventure through the museum, where live actors portray the lives of Nappanee citizens from the past. This year’s theme highlights local inventors and innovators who shaped history through their ideas and creations.
The script, written by Martha Owen, Heritage Collection manager at the Nappanee Public Library, brings these remarkable stories to life in an engaging and memorable way.
Don’t wait in line. Reserve your tour time online at nappaneelibrary.org, or visit the library to secure a spot or call (574) 773-7919.
ENTRY DEADLINE: TUESDAY, OCT. 21 @ 4:30 P.M. **Tape your entry to an 8½x11 piece of Xerox paper or construction paper, then write your name, age, address, phone number and email address on the back of your entry ENTRIES MUST BE DROPPED OFF IN PERSON AT The Animal Welfare League located at 1048 325 East, Pierceton, Indiana
The Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County is hosting a coloring contest. The entry deadline is Tuesday, Oct. 21. The entries must be dropped off at AWL, 1048 CR 325E, Pierceton.
The prizes are: first place, $30; second place, $20; and third place, $10. The first through third place winners in each age group will receive cash prizes. The age groups are: 4-6 years old; 7-9 years old; and 10-12 years old.
The page to color is in this week’s ‘the PAPER.’
The winners’ photo will be taken at AWL and will be announced in the Wednesday, Nov. 5 publication.