The calendar reads the first days of October and that brings thoughts about Thanksgiving and Christmas preparations.
This year the Kosciusko County Extension Homemakers Holiday Program committee has decided to help with “Wrapping Up Christmas.”
The program will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5, in the Home and Family Farms Building on the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds. The cost is $12 and registration is due by Wednesday, Oct. 22.
Check in and light refreshments will start at 9 a.m. compliments of the Tippecanoe Town-
3 Miles East, 1¼ Miles North On CR 11, Nappanee (574) 773-2746
ship and Atwood Home Study. At 9:30 a.m. participants will take their seats and learn unique ways to wrap up Christmas presents.
The organizers have planned a fun little contest for everyone to participate in as teams. Stocking stuffer ideas and more fun things will happen before we lunch is provided by the Chit Chat ladies.
The program continues at 1 p.m. where participants will find themselves heading to the craft tables and making 1 of three items: A repurposed sweater Christmas tree, gift gags or ornament collection of Santa/Elf, ribbon tree and a glitter foam tree).
The Holiday Program is open to anyone, including Kosciusko County Extension Homemakers and all their friends.
The cost is $12 with registration due by Oct. 22. Participants are asked to choose one of the three crafts. Checks should be made payable to Kosciusko Coun-
ty Extension Homemakers and mailed to Marvene Johnson, 3295 W 200 S, Warsaw, IN 46580. For further information or answers to questions call (574) 453-1606.
CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT COLLECTION Create your own ornament collection of a Santa/Elf, ribbon tree and glitter foam tree.
SWEATER TREE Choose to make a repurposed sweater Christmas tree.
CREATE A GIFT BAG
One of the crafts available to choose from is the creation of a Granny Gift Bag.
A DIY guide for first-time homeowners
StatePoint — Becoming a first-time homeowner is a remarkable achievement, but the journey doesn’t end at closing. With today’s market challenges, making your new house feel like home can seem daunting. The good news: with thoughtful planning and proven DIY tips, you can create a space that’s beautiful, functional and uniquely yours, without stretching your budget.
Budgeting And Planning
One of the biggest reasons to DIY? You can save serious dollars. In fact, a 2024 report by NerdWallet showed that on average, DIY projects cost less than half of professional projects.
Before beginning any DIY endeavor, establish your budget and assess what your house needs, prioritizing the most cost-effective yet impactful updates. Take a trip to a local home improvement retailer or do an online search to gauge costs.
“While it’s tempting to cut corners on costs, investing in high-quality products up-front can save you significantly in the long run. Quality materials offer durability and better performance, minimizing the need for frequent replacements or repairs. Think of it as buying peace of mind — a well-chosen faucet, sturdy cabinetry or durable flooring can elevate your home for years to come,” said Danielle DeBoe Harper, senior creative style manager, Moen.
Once you have a map of projects in place, plot when you want to tackle each one on the calendar.
Defining Your Home’s Aesthetic
Before diving in, ensure you’re investing in an aesthetic that resonates with you versus what is trending online.
“As you embark on the exciting process of styling your first home, it is essential to determine your personal taste so that it truly reflects who you are,” said DeBoe Harper. “Whether your style leans modern, traditional, industrial, farmhouse, glam or a combination of a few, understanding your preferences will help you establish the over-
all atmosphere of your home.”
Luckily, there are many places to find inspiration. Try browsing the aisles of a home décor store — what lamps or pillows are you just dying to put in your cart? When visiting a friend’s home, mentally note what you love and what you’d leave. At the grocery store? Pick up a few home décor magazines on your way out. And, of course, your phone or computer holds a treasure trove of style inspiration, from renovation tutorials on social media to style and décor trends on your favorite brand’s website.
Diving In
Before getting to work, ensure you have versatile supplies for various projects. The essentials include: a hammer, flathead, Phillips screwdrivers, painter’s tape and a power drill.
Now it’s time to DIY. Not sure how to approach a project? Lean on inspiration from friends and family, use YouTube tutorials to walk you through it or get instructions from an expert at your local hardware store. Of course, make sure whatever you choose is something that’s safe to DIY.
“One of the first projects I recommend is painting, since it’s a relatively affordable update that can completely transform the way a room comes together — and even how it makes you feel,” said DeBoe Harper. “You can paint an entire room or update a piece of furniture or cabinetry with a new color. Other high-impact projects that can be done at a lower cost include swapping hardware, like cabinet knobs or pulls, installing a new showerhead, building bookcases, changing the kitchen faucet or hanging peel-and-stick wallpaper, all of which can enhance your look almost instantly while boosting DIY confidence.”
For even more DIY renovation tips and inspiration, visit Moen.com.
And remember, successful DIY renovation is built on planning, preparation and a willingness to learn. With these tips for first-time homeowners, you can shape a stylish, comfortable space tailored to your needs.
FIRST-TIME HOMEOWNERS Successful DIY renovation is built on planning, preparation and a willingness to learn. Photo Source: Moen.
FALL H ME IMPR VEMENT
Tips for buying major home appliances online
Family Features — Nowadays, you can buy just about anything online and have it delivered and installed with just a few clicks. This includes major home appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, furnaces, heat pumps and water heaters.
However, making a large purchase without inspecting the product or planning for installation comes with its own challenges. To ensure a smooth shopping experience, consider these tips for buying major home appliances online.
Do Your Homework
Set a budget and determine what features are necessities and which are nice to have. When you start searching, you’ll be able to compare product features and reviews. Look for customer feedback, especially regarding durability, performance and features.
For large and installed appliances like water heaters and heating, ventilation and air conditioning
(HVAC) units, research system requirements including size, capacity and system type (like gas or electric) and compatibility with your current home infrastructure like ductwork. Another consideration is if your state or municipality has local code compliances you must meet like emissions or energy-efficiency standards. This can be time-consuming and difficult for some homeowners.
When shopping online, look for retailers that have partnerships with professional and licensed contractors to help determine the appropriate equipment for your home, make the installation process easy and help you tap into local utility rebates and tax credits.
Consider The Seller
On some online marketplaces, products may be listed by third-party sellers who are not affiliated with the original manufacturer, meaning the product may not be covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
Third-party sellers may not have relationships with local dealers or contractors, and most contractors won’t install or repair products not purchased directly from a manufacturer.
To help you purchase with confidence, Walmart and Bryant Heating & Cooling created a unique partnership to simplify the HVAC buying journey. Customers who inquire at Walmart.com are paired with a highly qualified and reputable dealer to help homeowners assess their requirements, offer energy-efficient equipment solutions and provide installation by trained, certified professionals.
Examine The Return
And Warranty Policies
It’s easy to get excited about a product and not think what happens if it malfunctions, so it’s important to look for a manufacturer’s warranty and if extended protection plans are available. When you find warranty information, read
BUYING HOME APPLIANCES
Buying large home appliances and installed appliances online can save time and money. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.
the fine print. Most manufacturers require the equipment to be registered after it’s installed to realize
the full warranty benefits. Look For Discounts And Financing
Many online retailers offer financing for big purchases, including zero-interest promotions or “buy now, pay later” options. These monthly payment options allow you to fit large purchases into your budget rather than dipping into savings. Watch for hidden fees or high interest rates after promotional periods end.
For installed systems, check if you can bundle financing with installation and extended warranties for convenience. Some appliance manufacturers offer discounts on products if purchased through specific retailers. For instance, if you purchase a Bryant Heating & Cooling system through Walmart, you will receive an instant savings on the cost of a new HVAC unit and qualified customers can take advantage of exclusive financing offers.
Confirm Product Delivery And Installation
Products are easy to purchase online, but poor planning on delivery and installation can turn the process into a hassle. For larger and installed appliances, make sure delivery includes unboxing, setup and removal of old units, if needed.
Documentation of higher priced items, especially those with installation next steps and extended warranties, can be helpful if you run into issues. Some of the documents you should keep (in paper and digital versions, if possible) include a final invoice, permits (if applicable), warranty terms and information, delivery and installation scope of work and timelines. Take photos before and after installation.
Buying large home appliances and installed appliances online can save time and money, provided you approach it thoughtfully. This is part of a broader trend toward digital convenience in home services that makes online tools, virtual consultations and price transparency more accessible. With a little research, comparison and attention to detail, you can find the right appliances to fit your home, lifestyle and budget — without ever stepping into a store.
To find more heating and cooling solutions, visit Walmart.com/Bryant.
Source: Bryant Heating & Cooling
FALL H ME IMPR VEMENT
Helpful tips to tackle challenging paint projects
StatePoint — Some DIY projects are easier than others. Painting tricky areas like windows, curves, corners, murals and more might intimidate some painters, but don’t let difficulty deter you from transforming your home into a space you love. DIYers of all skill levels can complete tough paint projects with a few useful tips and the right tools.
Challenge 1: Windows
When facing any difficult painting project, like windows, preparation is critical. First, clean the wood trim with warm, soapy water and a cloth or sponge. For wooden windows that will require paint application near the glass, don’t forget to wipe the windowpanes with a glass cleaner. Buildup on these surfaces can prevent painter’s tape from bonding to the surface, leaving room around the edges for paint to seep through and creating unnecessary cleanup post-painting.
Once the surface is prepped, line each windowpane and the trim with painter’s tape, overlapping the edges in each corner for the tightest seal.
Challenge 2:
Curves And Edges
A good multi-surface painter’s tape can help DIYers achieve professional results for most paint projects, but when it comes to unusual contours, it’s worth in-
vesting in a conformable painter’s tape, like FrogTape Advanced. Made with thin but strong washi paper backing, the green tape lies flat while conforming to curved areas, like around light fixtures, mantels, molding and fireplaces. It’s also treated with exclusive PaintBlock Technology to seal tape edges for clean, sharp paint lines.
Challenge 3:
Corners And Trim
When painting a wall or ceiling, it’s not always easy to prevent paint bleed in the corners where adjacent walls or trim meet. Properly applying painter’s tape can simplify the task. When painting the ceiling, apply tape to the wall around the perimeter of the room, keeping the tape flush with the line where the two areas meet, and overlap the tape in the corners. A similar process can be followed when painting wood trim. When the project is complete, remove the tape slowly at a 45-degree angle while the paint is still wet for best results.
Challenge 4: Murals
Recent consumer research conducted by FrogTape discovered that one of the most popular painting trends for DIYers is nature-inspired faux wallpaper. While more than half of people prefer painting a mural over ap-
but
plying wallpaper, 36% still say “not feeling confident in painting skills” is holding them back from trying this project.
Experienced painters may be confident enough to freehand a design, but those who are newer
to the task can rely on painter’s tape or stencils to bring their vision to life. Stencils can be used as a guide to create floral or leaf patterns, or DIYers can sketch the shapes and tape them off with painter’s tape to keep outlines
crisply defined. Painting is one of the most rewarding DIY projects, but don’t make it harder than it has to be. These tips can help simplify your next paint project, no matter how complicated it might seem.
PAINT PROJECTS
Painting tricky areas, like windows, curves, corners, murals and more, might intimidate some painters,
don’t let difficulty deter you from transforming your home into a space you love. Photo provided by StatePoint.
The Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program Kosciusko and the Kosciusko County Parks and Recreation Board are inviting the community to a ribbon cutting for the Chinworth Bridge trail extension, a first step toward developing a county-wide trail system.
The ribbon cutting will take place at 3 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, at the pavilion just east of the old Chinworth Bridge at 3495 W. Old Road 30, Warsaw. Kosciusko County Commissioner Cary Groninger and county park board President Rob Bishop will speak at the ribbon cutting.
Part of the Lake City Greenway, the existing Chinworth trail connects the City-County Athletic Complex to the west side of Warsaw and offers almost two miles of scenic routes, a picnic area and a canoe and kayak launch along the Tippecanoe River. The extension will bring the existing trailhead at the historic Chinworth Bridge
westward toward Creighton’s Crazy Egg Cafe, adding nearly a mile of new path for pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy.
For residents who live in the neighborhoods west of the Chinworth Bridge, the extension brings families safe access from their homes to the growing trail system in the Warsaw community.
The project started as a vision from HELP Kosciusko’s quality-of-place committee.
“This extension will provide connection to our smaller communities, adding more opportunities for physical exercise, while hopefully attracting visitors. It’s the result of hard work, collaboration and the dedication of multiple organizations, community members and volunteers. A county-wide trail system will be a tremendous asset to our community,” said Kosciusko County Community Coordinator Amy Roe.
The next phase of the Chin-
worth trail extension is slated to carry the path westward from the Crazy Egg Cafe parking lot to Atwood. Engineering and inspection services were led by Triad Associates (now part of VS Engineering) and construction by Niblock Excavating.
For more updates on HELP Kosciusko, visit kcgov.com and follow HELP Kosciusko on Facebook @HELPKosciusko.
Promotion at Lake City Bank’s Goshen branch
Lake City Bank has announced that Courtney L. Williams has been promoted to retail banking officer at the bank’s Goshen Concord branch.
•
•
•
•
In this position, Williams leads sales and service efforts in the branch, manages the daily operations of the office and supports office staff in their efforts to provide quality service and build customer relationships. She has been with the bank for 16 years.
Williams volunteers with Faith Lutheran Church, Northridge lacrosse and Junior Achievement.
Walls Ceilings Window And Door Trim
Walls Ceilings Window And Door Trim
Walls Ceilings Window And Door Trim
Stairways
Stairways
Woodwork Staining
Stairways
Woodwork Staining
Garage And Workshop Floors And Walls
Garage And Workshop Floors And Walls
Small Patch Repair
Woodwork Staining
Small Patch Repair
Garage And Workshop Floors And Walls
Great
Great
Drywall Repair
Drywall Repair
Small Patch Repair
References
Drywall Repair
574-304-5075
Great Service – Reasonable Rates
References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075
References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075
TRAIL EXTENSION IS FIRST STEP The Chinworth Bridge trail extension west of Warsaw is a first step toward developing a county-wide trail system, officials say. The Paper file photo.
COURTNEY L. WILLIAMS
KLA cadets learn about law
Tuesday, Sept. 23, Kosciusko Leadership Academy cadets learned about the law enforcement and judicial system in Kosciusko County.
Kosciusko Superior Court
Judge Christopher Kehler opened the session with an overview of the county’s judicial system, which dates back to 1836. He traced the history of local courts, noting the first judge was Levi Lee — the namesake of Leesburg — and explained how today’s system manages domestic and civil casework.
Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Joe Sobek followed with insights into the prosecutorial process, from charging through trial. He described how cases are evaluated for prosecution and highlighted the collaboration between his office, law enforcement, victims’ services and community stakeholders.
Capt. Bradley Kellar of the Warsaw Police Department then spoke about the challenges and opportunities facing WPD. He outlined how local, county and municipal agencies coordinate with one another, noted that the police department has about 50 sworn officers, and emphasized the department’s ongoing efforts to build a more diverse team.
Sheriff Jim Smith discussed initiatives designed to reduce jail overcrowding through alternative programs, diversion and partner-
ships, including the jail chemical addiction program, drug court and re-entry court and the positive impact these approaches have had in helping individuals break cycles of addiction and return to the community with stability and purpose.
The session concluded with Casey Trombley, who provided an in-depth look at the jail chemical addiction program. She explained that inmates must apply and be accepted to participate in this vol-
untary recovery-based program, which offers classes in anger management, parenting, fitness, financial education, relationship skills and addiction counseling.
JCAP also helps participants pursue certificate programs and high school equivalency diplomas, giving them tools to build a stronger future after release.
In addition to the presentations, cadets received an inside look at several county facilities. They toured the 911 dispatch center, the
jail intake area, gaining first-hand perspective on daily operations, and also the jail’s cell block. A highlight of the visit was meeting Rose, the 911 office therapy dog, who provides comfort and support to staff working in high-stress emergency response roles.
The next Kosciusko Leadership Academy session was to cover philanthropy in Kosciusko County. The program was scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 7, at the Kosciusko County Community Foundation.
SEPTEMBER SESSION Pictured from left are Capt. Bradley Kellar, Warsaw Police Department; Judge Christopher Kehler, Kosciusko Superior Court IV; Emi Kreklau, Grace College; Joe Sobek, deputy prosecuting at-
torney; JoeAnne Alvarez, Ivy Tech Community College; Sheriff Jim Smith, Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office; and Casey Trombley, Jail Chemical Addiction Program. Photos provided by Kosciusko Leadership Academy.
THANKS, ROSE Kosciusko Leadership Academy cadets visited the Kosciusko County 911 dispatch center as part of the session on law and order. While touring the facility, they met Rose, the office therapy dog, who provides comfort and support to staff in high-stress emergency response roles.
C ounty r eport
Court
News
Small Claims
The following small claims have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: CommunityWide Federal Credit Union v. Abraham J. Alvarado, $7,167.57; v. Ernest A. Farmer II, $437.04
Aegis Dental Group Warsaw PC v. Kimberly Amburgey, $900; v. Bradlee R. Bell, $950; v. Allen Hall, $1,364.14; v. Lukus Kats, $712.13; v. Daniel Miranda, $4,841.24
CL Benz Co. LLC v. Randy Avery, $2,670; v. Alisha Carden, $2,542; v. Kevin Ketcham, $620 Snow and Sauerteig LLP v. Jose Espinoza, $4,692.17
Andrew J. Guthrie, Chareen Rigsby v. Professional Roofing Solutions, $9,491.47
Client Services KL v. Michael G. Turnes, $738.49
Civil Collections
The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler presiding:
Midland Credit Management Inc. v. David P. Brettell, $2,083.05; v. Anna Conkling, aka Anna Funk, $3,720.48; v. William K. Kreicker, $8,712.39; v.Lisa D. Tackett, $1,172.48
LVNV Funding LLC v. Richard Cain, $5,240.45; v. Jeffery Darnell Jr., $2,739.71; v. Flor Ibarra, $2,405.43; v. Salvador Menchaca, $1,403.96; v. Vicki Moore, $1,898.69
Loretta Page, a/k/a Loretta Joyce, $1,161.68; v. Galen Sopher, $1,180.46; v. Kendra Wadkins, $2,480.90
CKS Prime Investments LLC v. Charles Cason, $7,278.32
Bank of America NA v. John D.
Caudill, $5,335.70
Capital One NA, successor by merger to Discover Bank v. Victoria Davidson, $2,412.82; v. James J. Paulus, $5,635.89; v. Roby B. Weed, $3,466.70
UMH Properties Inc. v. Ashley Ferguson, $9,938.42
Denali Capital LLC v. Lindsey Fitzpatrick, $5,291.69
Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Calvin Godwin, Jacklyn Godwin, $11,276.68; v. Richard Williams, $7,644.86
Jefferson Capital Systems LLC v. Ryan Head, $6,087.49; v. Scott Landis, $620.52
U.S. Bank National Association, d/b/a Elan Financial Services v. Michelle M. Henry, $8,324.78
Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. Daniel Jorgensen, $1,457.26; v. Jeremy Patrick, $2,474.42
JP Morgan Chase Bank NA v. Jordan Koontz, $5,294.24; v. Ben A. Penrod, $6,998.37
Gateway Financial Solutions v. Travis Ludwig, $10,571.51
TD Bank USA NA v. Donna Miller-Lunsford, $1,573.45
Crown Asset Management LLC v. Angela Vickery, $1,928.95
Mariner Finance v. Eric A. Zartman, Lisa M. Zartman, $3,194.67 Evictions
The following eviction has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: MLJ Huntington Ridge v. Mattie Carlisle, Dylan Tharp, $8,547.50 Mortgage Foreclosures
The following mortgage foreclosure has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:
Wilmington Savings Fund Society FSB v. Carolyn L. McNicholas, $183,770.24
Kosciusko's ONLY on-site Cremation center
Superior Court III
The following fines for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:
Speeding — Dudley O. Allen, Warsaw, $164.50
Failure of occupant to use a safety belt — Samantha M. Sublett, Winona Lake, $25
Operating with expired plates
Ora Martin, Syracuse, $164
No operator’s license in possession, failure of occupant to use a safety belt — Debbie S. Jefferson, Warsaw, $164.50
Open alcoholic beverage container during operation of a motor vehicle — Heather A. Gills, North Webster, $164
Marriage Licenses
The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court
Melissa Boggs: Hynes-Bergman
Joseph James Hynes, 23, Warsaw, and Olivia Rose Bergman, 23, Winona Lake Pierce-Russell
Nathaniel Pierce, 26, Pierceton, and Emma Jean Russell, 23, Pierceton
Rottger-Dunnuck
Dustin James Rottger, 28, Syracuse, and Andrea Nicole Dunnuck, 25, Syracuse Wade-Santiago
Tye John Rodric Wade, 23, Warsaw, and Crystal Crespo Santiago, 27, Warsaw Fisher-Doll
Madison Lea Fisher, 26, North Webster, and Eric Thomas Doll, 29, North Webster Davis-Mast
Justine Anita Davis, 40, Cromwell, and Mason Daniel Mast, 30, Cromwell Peyatt-Egolf
Heather Peyatt, 53, Cromwell, and Christopher Egolf, 47, Cromwell Rife-Yates
Aubrey Rife, 45, Winona Lake, and Travis Yates, 43, Bourbon Donahue-Mattix
Haley Donahue, 27, Warsaw, and Brandon Mattix, 28, Plymouth Elliott-Schlesinger
Alexzandrea Noelle Elliott, 33, Pierceton, and Damien Thomas Schlesinger, 32, Reynoldsburg, Ohio Williams-Lung
Nathaniel James Williams, 27, Warsaw, and McKenzie Joy Lung, 24, Nappanee Ryman-Holwerda
Kensington Nicole Ryman, 23, Warsaw, and Kyle James Holwerda, Batavia, Ill.
Olson-Hunziker
Kiaundra Kay Olson, 22, Milford, and Gavin Carl Hunziker, 21, Bremen
Marriage Dissolutions
The following couples have filed for a marriage dissolution in Kosciusko Superior Courts I or IV: Heckaman — Caleb Heckaman, Warsaw, and Markee Heckaman, Silver Lake. They were married Sept. 11, 2021, and separated Aug. 25, 2024. One minor child. Rogers-Dutton — Cherokee Rogers, Warsaw, and Camden Dutton, Etna Green. They were married Nov. 30, 2024, and separated in July of 2025. One minor child.
Wise-Lively — Jeanna Ann Wise, Syracuse, and Jacob Lively, Pierceton. They were married Aug. 19, 2021, and separated Oct. 1, 2023. No minor child(ren).
Cartwright — Tina L. Cartwright, Warsaw, and Shawn Cartwright, Elkhart. They were married Nov. 9, 1991, and separated May 2, 2025. No minor child(ren).
Monreal — Olivia Monreal, Pierceton, and Alicia Monreal, Warsaw. They were married March 21, 2023, and separated in December of 2023. No minor child(ren).
Mark Mikel retiring, open house
Mark Mikel retired as the executive director of the Family Christian Development Center Tuesday, Sept. 30.
The Center is a faith-based nonprofit health and human services organization serving the Wakarusa and Nappanee communities.
An open house will be held in his honor from 3-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8, at The Center, 107 E. Marion St., Nappanee. All community members are invited to attend.
He has served as executive director of The Center for the past 11 years. During his tenure, The Center moved to an improved location
IN THE KOSCIUSKO CIRCUIT AND SUPERIOR COURTS
121 N. LAKE STREET, RM D162 WARSAW, IN 46580
574-372-2334
to better serve its clients. He has been active in the management of The Center and fundraising. He has a Master of Arts degree in psychological counseling from the University of Notre Dame.
In addition to his work at The Center, he and his family have touched many lives through the Kelsey Mikel Memorial Foundation, which has awarded more than $110,000 in college scholarships to graduating NorthWood High School seniors. He has also been active in NorthWood High School sports, coaching cross country and track. His voice is often heard as the public address announcer for NorthWood football and basketball games.
At Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, our caring and knowledgeable staff is here to guide you in making the best choices for your family - decisions that honor your loved one while remaining in your budget.
Choosing Titus Funeral Home's Cremation Center for your loved ones cremation is ideal for many families. We own and operate our own crematory with licensed and certified staff.
At Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, our caring and knowledgeable staff is here to guide you in making the best choices for your family - decisions that honor your loved one while remaining in your budget.
CAUSE NUMBER: 43D04-2310-DN259
IN RE THE MARRIAGE OF: Sarah M. Jones Petitioner, and Shaun R. Jones Respondent SUMMONS
This Summons is to the Respondent above named and to any other person who may be concerned.
He and his wife, Kathy, reside in Wakarusa and attend Wakarusa United Methodist Church. They have four daughters and two grandchildren. In retirement, he will continue to serve on the board of directors of the Indiana Organ Donor Network and support his favorite sports teams.
Gregg Goewert has been hired as the new executive director of The Center by The Center’s board. He began work Sept. 1. He has extensive background in education, formerly working as a teacher and principal.
Births
574-267-3104
Cory Benz Owner & Funeral Director 100% Local Ownership
Choosing Titus Funeral Home’s Cremation Center for your loved ones cremation is ideal for many families. We own and operate our own crematory with licensed and certified staff.
You are notified that you have been named as a Respondent in the Kosciusko Circuit/Superior Courts, Kosciusko County, Indiana, 121 N. Lake St., RM D162, Warsaw, IN 46580 in an action entitled In Re the Marriage of Sarah M. Jones, Petitioner and Shaun R. Jones, Respondent, Cause Number 43D042310-DN259, by the person named above as Petitioner. This summons by publication is specifically directed to Shawn R. Jones, whose whereabouts are unknown.
The named Petitioner is proceeding with this action pro-se.
The nature of this proceeding is the Petitioner’s request for Dissolution of Marriage. An answer or other response in writing to the Petition must be answered either by you or your attorney on or before 30 days after the publication of the third notice of this petition, and if you fail to do so, a judgement by default may be rendered against you for the relief demanded by the Petitioner.
Dated: 10-3-25
Melissa Boggs, Clerk Kosciusko County Circuit Court
Hudson Blake Nolt
Josh and Elyse (Yoder) Nolt, Elkhart, are the parents of a son, Hudson Blake, born at 9:14 a.m. Sept. 29, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 8 pounds, 4 ounces.
Selah Cove Hochstetler
Joshua and Lisa Hochstetler, Wakarusa, are the parents of a daughter, Selah Cove, born at 1:11 a.m. Sept. 30, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 9 pounds, 7.2 ounces, and was 21 inches long.
Jalisa Kate Martin
Christopher and Tracy (Martin) Martin, Goshen, are the parents of a
daughter, Jalisa Kate, born at 12:07 p.m. Sept. 30, 2025, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 10 pounds and was 21 3/4 inches long.
Caylus Luis Morris Navarrie Navarro and Jacob Morris, Syracuse, are the parents of a son, Caylus Luis, born at 5:04 p.m. Oct. 1, 2025, at Goshen Hospital. He weighed 7 pounds, 15.1 ounces, and was 19 1/2 inches long.
Joel L. Kuhns
Leon and Eleanor (Helmuth) Kuhns, Bremen, are the parents of a son, Joel L., born at 1:05 a.m. Oct. 2, 2025. He weighed 7 pounds, 9 ounces.
MARK MIKEL
Purdue Extension offers smartphone basics for adults
Purdue Extension will offer a two-session educational program aimed at helping adults gain confidence and skills in using smartphones and tablets.
The “Smartphone and Tablet Basics” program, scheduled for Wednesdays, Oct. 15 and Oct. 29, at the Warsaw Community Public Library, will provide participants with essential tools to
navigate and maximize the use of their mobile devices.
The program is tailored for adults who may be new to mobile technology or those looking to refresh their knowledge. Topics will include:
• Navigating device settings and features.
• Password management.
• Setting up in case of emer-
gency contacts.
• Connecting to Wi-Fi.
• Downloading and managing apps.
• Using communication tools like text messaging and email.
• Safe internet browsing and online security.
• Camera basics.
The sessions will be led by Shannon Shepherd, Purdue Ex-
Sidewalk Prophets’ ‘Looking Up’ tour coming to Akron
The Acts Concert Series will be bringing the Sidewalk Prophets’ “ Looking Up” tour to Akron in October.
Sidewalk Prophets, with a recent Grand Ole Opry debut and three gold certifications from the Recording Industry Association of America, will be performing sig-
nature hits, such as “The Words I Would Say,” “You Love My Anyway” and “Live Like That,” along with new selections from their fifth studio album, “Looking Up.”
On select dates during the tour, the group will be performing with Megan Danielle, who was featured on “American Idol” and “The Voice.”
The concert will be held Saturday, Oct. 25, at the Tippecanoe Valley High School Performing Arts Center. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and music starts at 7.
For more information, including ticket cost, visit allowingchristtoshine.org or call (574) 267-0969.
‘Stop The Bleed’ training Oct. 11
Kosciusko County Emergency Management Agency announces the revitalization of the Community Emergency Response Team program.
If you want to learn how to help yourself and your neighbors after a disaster, before emergency personnel can get to you, take a CERT class and learn necessary skills and so much more.
The CERT class is a basic first aid class.
Those who are interested in becoming a part of an active CERT program are invited to attend an upcoming orientation and “Stop the Bleed” training. The training will be from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Warsaw Police Training Annex, 2191 Fort Wayne St., Warsaw.
To attend the orientation and training, or become involved in the new CERT program, contact
Elkhart County Extension offering air fryer program
Technology is always evolving, including the technology used in the kitchen. The air fryer has become increasingly popular over the last few years. Learn about the ins and outs of an air fryer, different model options and safety techniques at a free program. A free educational program will be presented by Emily Christ, Purdue University Extension Educator in Health and Human Sciences in Elkhart County. This program is being offered at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, at the Owls Club, 2715 E. Jackson Blvd., Elkhart. To
sign up for a free Owls Club membership and register for this program, call the Owls Club at (574) 397-0275. The Owls Club is a private, community organization which exists to help aging adults in Elkhart County and surrounding communities thrive. The program will run approximately one hour.
If you are in need of accommodations to attend a program or an interpreter or translator, contact Emily Christ at (574) 5330554 or ewitters@purdue.edu by Oct. 15.
Gene Reed at greed@kosciusko. in.gov, or call (574) 265-2606 to confirm interest. Persons with questions about the program can contact Reed.
The local EMA would additionally like to reconnect with those who have previously participated in CERT.
Those persons who still have CERT equipment but are no longer interested in participating, let Reed know so arrangements can be made to reissue the equipment to a future CERT member.
tension health and human sciences educator.
Purdue Extension encourages adults in the community to take advantage of this opportunity to build their tech confidence and stay connected.
“With smartphones and tablets becoming integral to daily life, it’s essential that everyone, regardless 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.”
The program will be held from 4-5 p.m. both dates at the Warsaw library, 310 E. Main St., Warsaw. There is no cost to attend, but preregistration is required to ensure adequate materials and space.
To register or for more information, contact Shepherd at (574) 372-2340 or email shephe52@ purdue.edu.
RIBBON CUTTING Mania Coney Dog, located on Main Street in Milford, celebrated a ribbon cutting Wednesday morning, Oct. 1. Shown in the front from left are Jeanetta Slabaugh, chamber board member; Melissa Longenecker, chamber ambassador; Braxton Parks, Teresa Martin; Kevin Frentier, owner; Scott Gingerich; Brycen Wrigley; Peter Salveson; and Justin Beer. In the back row are Brent Randall, Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber exec-
utive director; Angie Robbins, chamber ambassador; Carey Larson, chamber ambassador; Renda Loetz, Milford clerk-treasurer; Patricia Gall, Milford clerk treasurer; Jim Smiley; Scott Arnold; and Dallas Rice, deputy marshal, Milford Police Department. Photo provided by the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce.
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 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. 11 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.
Leon And Darlene
Bontrager Auction
3 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14. Located 2 1/2 miles south of Middlebury on SR 13 to CR 20, west 2 miles to CR 35, south 1/2 mile to 59547 CR 35, Middlebury.
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 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. Three-bed home with sunroom and two-car garage. Metzger Property Services,
metzgerauction.com.
Vicki Wheat Auction 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 16. Located at 401 S. Oakland Ave., Nappanee.
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.
Raber Public Auction
3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21. Located 7 blocks east of the fourway stop in Shipshewana on Middlebury Street to Union Street, north 1 block to 155 Union St., Shipshewana.
Online Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21. Open house 5:306:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14 and 1-2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19. Property located at 1501 Fisher Ave., Warsaw. Executive home with walk-out basement, pond, elevator on 9.3 acres. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
DaLite/Legrand donates 3-D printers to Jefferson S.T.E.M. Elementary
Da-Lite/Legrand, in partnership with its Better Communities team, has made an in-kind donation of two, state-of-the-art 3-D printers to support a school-wide engineering design challenge at Jefferson S.T.E.M. The donation, facilitated by Mark Sproles of Da-Lite/Legrand, will play a key role in enhancing students’ hands-on learning experiences in science, technology, engineering and math.
The engineering design challenge tasks students with designing a personalized desktop organizer using the engineering design process. Throughout the project, students will engage with real-world problem-solving and receive direct feedback from professional engineers at Da-Lite/ Legrand and other local companies based in Warsaw.
“This is exactly the kind of community partnership that brings classroom learning to life,” said Joshua Wall, principal. “Thanks to the support of Legrand Better Communities (Da-Lite), our students have access to professional-grade tools and mentorship that inspire creativity, critical thinking and innovation.”
The donation is part of an ongoing commitment by Legrand’s Better Communities (Da-Lite) to investing in local education and empowering the next generation of innovators.
“Empowering students with tools, like 3-D printers, helps bridge the gap between imagination and innovation. We’re proud to support Jefferson S.T.E.M. in cultivating the next generation of problem-solvers and creators,” said Sproles. “Our commitment
Legrand; and student Brynn Smith. Photo provided by Warsaw Community Schools.
doesn’t end with this donation. We look forward to continuing our partnership and finding new ways to inspire and equip students for success in S.T.E.M. and beyond.”
The 3-D printers will remain part of the school’s technology toolkit, available for future, student-led projects and S.T.E.M. programs.
Community Arts Program presents ‘Requiem of Hope’
Community Arts Program of Kosciusko County will present the Fall Choral Fest performance titled “Requiem of Hope” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, in Rodeheaver Auditorium, Winona Lake.
The program will feature performances by members of Vocal Vision, Vocal Vibes, Grace College Lancer Chorus, Manchester University Singers, and the Symphony of the Lakes Orchestra.
The program begins with several choral songs of challenge,
hope and inspiration. The program concludes with all singers combined to perform “Requiem for the Living” by Dan Forrest. Soloists Cassandra Petrie, mezzo soprano, and Jordan Fredericks, tenor, are featured in the Requiem.
The Community Arts Program is welcoming guest conductor Pearl Shangkuan, Grand Rapids, Mich., to lead the Fall Choral Fest Singers. Shangkuan is a renowned choral conductor, who leads and
instructs choral groups worldwide.
“The program ‘Requiem of Hope’ is meant to bring a message of rest and hope to the weary,” said Ardis Faber, director of the Vocal Vision groups. “We hope the music will renew your spirit and bring encouragement, joy, and peace in difficult times.”
Tickets are on sale now by visiting the Community Arts Program website at capwarsaw. com.
Revival meetings feature evangelist Mike Patterson
First Baptist Church of Pierceton is inviting the public to attend revival meetings in October with evangelist Mike Patterson. Patterson lived a life of crime and was in and out of jail and prison repeatedly “until God got ahold of his life,” according to a news release.
The revival meetings start Sunday, Oct. 12, and service times are at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. The meetings continue at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 13, through Wednesday, Oct. 15.
First Baptist Church is located at 208 W. Market St., Pierceton.
CASSANDRA PETRIE JORDAN FREDERICKS PEARL SHANGKUAN
HIT PRINT Pictured from left are student Reagan Harding; Mark Sproles, Da-Lite/
DAR chapter learns about Fellowship Missions and Room at the Table
The Agnes Pruyn Chapman Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution met at noon, Tuesday, Sept. 23, at the Warsaw East Pizza Hut with two guests.
The first guest was Eric Lane from Fellowship Missions. He and his wife founded this faithbased, homeless shelter more than 15 years ago. It is on East Winona Avenue in Warsaw with 51 beds. The organization is in the process of building a new 51,000-square-foot facility next door. It will have a 120-bed capacity designed with family dorms and single-parent dorms. The current facility has men on one side and women on the other. This non-government-funded, faith-based shelter offers job placements and life and parenting skills to help residents. The average stay at the shelter is 200 days.
Fellowship Missions also runs The Gathering Place, which has
an informal coffee house-type atmosphere and is open for anyone in the community. It is located downtown on the corner of Market and Buffalo streets.
The second guest was Kelli Schneider, who is a volunteer at “Room at the Table.” This is a closet program available to anyone who is a licensed foster parent. It is located at the Winona Lake Grace Church. The program offers free items, such as baby cribs, high chairs, diapers, clothing and other items that are needed for children from birth through 18 years of age who are in the foster system. Children sometimes arrive suddenly at a foster home with nothing to very little.
Regent Kathy Gawthrop opened the business meeting with the opening rituals, pledge to the flag and recitation of the American’s Creed and preamble to the Constitution. Gawthrop read the monthly president general’s message. Susan Creamer
Northwood trap team hosting pancake, sausage breakfast
The Northwood High School Trap team is hosting an allyou-can-eat pancake and sausage breakfast fundraiser from 7-10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Nappanee Conservation Club, 13960 N. Gravelton
Road, Nappanee.
All proceeds will benefit the trap team.
The menu includes pancakes, sausage, coffee and orange juice.
The cost is by donation only.
gave the national defense report on the 250th birthday of the U.S. Navy, which is this year. On Oct. 13, 1775, the Continental Congress authorized the creation of the Continental Navy.
Massachusetts supplied Gen. George Washington with an armed schooner and a sloop for the purpose of seizing British supplies. Nov. 9, 1775, word arrived that King George III declared the colonies to be in a state of open rebellion. In the following weeks, Congress authorized more ships of war and thus the American Navy was first established.
Gawthrop passed out information and registration forms for the DAR Fall Forum, which is Nov. 7 and 8 in Indianapolis.
For closing, Gawthrop read an article on “America’s Most Historical Square Mile” in Philadelphia. This is home to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Independence Hall is built in red brick Georgian architecture. In 1752, the Liberty Bell was inscribed with “Proclaim Liberty Throughout all the Land unto all the Inhabitants Therof” from Leviticus 25:10.
Membership in DAR is open to any woman who is able to prove her lineage to an American Revolutionary patriot who fought in or aided the war effort for independence.
For more information, visit dar.org.
Singer’s international tour to make a stop in Warsaw
Sarah McQuaid, a singer-songwriter formerly from Chicago and now based in Cornwall, England, will be performing in Warsaw in October.
McQuaid is on a three-month autumn tour of the United Kingdom and U.S., which will include a free concert Tuesday, Oct. 28, at the Warsaw Community Public Library.
McQuaid has been writing songs for a new album to be recorded in the garage she’s converting to a studio. She’s released several “Garage Sessions” videos featuring some of the new material, plus a new archival album, “Walking Into White Live in Rapid City.”
The garage studio has been made possible in part by a crowdfunding campaign that’s still in progress.
“The work on the studio is nearly finished,” McQuaid said in a news release, “and I’m looking forward to getting properly stuck
into tracking the album. I’ve already been playing a few of the new songs in my current concert set and they’ve been going down really well, so I can’t wait to share them with a wider audience.”
The first three of what McQuaid anticipates will be an ongoing series of “Garage Sessions” videos all can be viewed on her website and YouTube channel.
The first of them, “I’m Slowing Down As I Get Older (And That’s Good),” has been mooted as the new album’s title track and has a bluesy flavor that speaks to McQuaid’s roots in Chicago, where she spent most of her childhood before moving to Ireland and then on to Cornwall.
It’s followed by a cover of Radiohead’s “Fake Plastic Trees” and another McQuaid original, “When I Held Up My Phone to the Sky.”
For more information, visit McQuaid’s website at sarahmcquaid.com.
FROM ENGLAND TO WARSAW Singer-songwriter Sarah McQuaid, based in Cornwall, England, will be performing at the Warsaw Community Public Library as part of a fall concert tour. Photo provided by Sarah McQuaid.
Marching Band 2025
Fairfield
NorthWood
Tippecanoe
Valley
Whitko
Triton
Wawasee
Warsaw
Fairfield Marching Band
MARCHING PRIDE This year’s Fairfield Marching Pride band members are: Haylee All, Lyla All, MaKayla All, Jaylah Alvarez, Ryne Beck, Lydia Bergdall, Tyler Bilbrey, Emma Birkey, Sam Black, Eahnae Borntager, Jakoby Bontreger, Jaxon Bontreger, Linley Borntrager, Ashelyn Borzeniatow, Cole Bowling, Emma Bowling, Odessey Brown, Breya Buckholz, Zurielle Buckholz, Kamryn Castro, Guilio CAramella, Jayla Centers,Neveah Connolly, Lana Cripe, Issaac Cunningham, Astella Drudge, Cooper EIlliott.
Also: Sam Wakefield, Alec Wakefield, Charles Wakefield, Piper Williams, Cate Whitaker, Morgann Yotter, Sarah Young, Kenzie Zimmerman.
Photo provided by Mykayla Roskos-Neilson.
Fairfield Marching Pride band is ‘Out
By PHOEBE MUTHART Editor
The Fairfield Marching Pride Band is led by Mykayla Roskos-Neilson, director of bands for Fairfield Junior-Senior High School.
“Out of the Blue” is this year’s theme.
The Fairfield Marching Pride is something truly special, she said.
“It gives students a place to belong, grow, and take pride in representing their school. More than just music, it builds a community for families and creates traditions that bring people together,” she said.
“Out of the Blue” is more than a color show with songs that have the color blue in it, said Roskos-Neilson.
“We take a very human experience and use a color scheme and tangible visual component, chairs, to depict this idea. I think this narration we have written in the show reveals it best,” Roskos-Neilson said.
“Blue. The place, the one.
Blue. Something taken, something given.
Blue. A loss, a love.
Blue. A story remembered, a story forgotten.
Blue. I know you…
Taught me things. I now bring with me, you never left me.
In all the hues of this world I grew, I still find you blue.”
“I really hope students can apply their own individual story to this production’s meaning. On top of that, I hope students can come out of this season, no matter the placement, knowing that they put on a great show and be proud of what they accomplished,” said Roskos-Neilson.
The songs the band has been playing are “Rhapsody in Blue” by George Gershwin, “Blue Shades” by Frank Ticheli, “Blue” by Bobby Shew, “Blu” by John Bellion and “Little Blue” by Jacob Collier.
The show explores a variety of tones, said Roskos-Neilson, starting off with Gershwin’s lively “Rhapsody in Blue” clarinet solo.
Ticheli’s “Blue Shades” then reveals some different styles, such as the jazz idiom to create a variety to the musical package in the first half of the show.
of the Blue’
“To bring us into a different color, we proceed with Bobby Shew’s famous jazz ballad, ‘Blue’” said Roskos-Neilson. “This piece is quite reflective and intimate, revealing a gorgeous flugelhorn solo preceded with a classic jazz ballad hit.”
The color guard is then featured, with a live, spoken narration by two vocalists in which they describe what “blue” means. This feature accelerates into a great moment with the full ensemble featuring Collier’s “Little Blue” and Bellion’s “Blu.” To follow this hit is the rest of the closer — a medley of the two modern pieces, bringing the band home to “blue.”
The drum majors are Janessa Hochstetler, Sarah Young and Isaac Cunningham.
There are 110 students in band with 57 woodwinds, 29 color guard members and 21 percussion musicians.
Contests
So far, the band has competed in the following events: Goshen Crimson Marching Band Invitational, Sept. 6; Northwestern Marching Band Invitational, Sept. 13; Carroll Challenge of Bands Invitational, Sept. 20; and Center Grove Cavalcade of Champions, Oct. 4.
The next competitions are ISSMA Regional, Lafayette High School, Oct. 18; BOA Super Regional, Lucas Oil Stadium, Oct. 25; ISSMA Semi-State, Decatur Central, Nov. 1; and ISSMA State Finals, Lucas Oil Stadium, Nov. 8.
WALK THIS WAY Fairfield’s marching band worked on their footing at a recent practice session. Photos by Phoebe Muthart.
NorthWood Marching Band
Text
and Photos By
PHOEBE MUTHART Editor
NorthWood’s Red Regiment Show title this year is “ViTRUE-vian.”
Under the direction of the new band director, Zachary Peycha, the band is going strong. A Ball State graduate, he has taught music at other schools before coming to NorthWood.
The band has competed in several contests so far this year. It earned first place for best music, best visual and best general effects at the Sept. 6 competition at Goshen High School. It has four more competitions to go. They are: Plymouth High School, Oct. 11; Jefferson High School, ISSMA regionals, Lafayette, Oct. 18; Lucas Oil Stadium, BOA super regional, Indianapolis, Oct. 25; and Decatur Central High School, ISSMA semi-state, Indianapolis, Nov. 1.
This year’s theme is “Vi-TRUE-vian.”
“It is essentially our take on finding perfection through motion, music and everything that we do as a program. This has really helped our students buy in to how we approach our season in every facet of our operation,” said Peycha.
He said the marching band program is important to students and their families.
“The program, as I see it, is a major cornerstone of the community,” said Peycha. “We are there for the community during football games, pep rallies, social events in Wakarusa or Nappanee.”
Peycha said this allows the Red Regiment to create a very unique relationship with the members in the community due to the visibility of students and staff.
“With this, we will frequently find phenomenal support from our towns, schools and the greater community,” he said.
He said he hopes band students will have a great experience this year.
“I have really been working to make sure that the students are driven by their own self improvement,” he said. “While the trophies and awards are nice to see, in the end, they are only going to remember how high quality their show was, and how much fun they had doing this amazing activity with their closest friends,” Peycha said.
Before he was at NorthWood, he was the director at Southport Middle School on the south side of Indianapolis.
Outside of working at NWHS, he helps run a group called “Elevate Winds,” which is essentially an indoor version of marching band oriented toward college students, as well as advanced high school students that would like to find supplemental instruction for the marching arts.
“On top of that, I am also on staff at the Santa Clara
Vanguard Drum and Bugle Corps during the summer,” Peycha said.
It is essentially a professional marching band where college-age students travel the nation to perform in college and NFL stadiums, he noted.
“I think that it is safe to say that I really enjoy teaching band,” said Peycha.
This year, the band is playing a lot of music from the minimalist genre of music. Pieces like “Electric Counterpoint” by Steve Reich and “You Know Where to Find Me” by Imogen Heap are just a few in the lineup.
“We are basically taking simple themes and overlaying them on top of each other during the entire show. This is to show people that are watching that we are perfectly in time, in tune and really on top of our performance quality,” said Peycha.
There are 91 members in band with 11 flute players, eight clarinet players, six on alto sax, one tenor sax, one baritone sax, nine on trumpet, three mellophone players, 11 on baritone, three tuba players, 12 percussionists and 23 color guard members. Band Members
The members of the band are: Alexandra Yoder, Genesis Gonzalez, Brooke Faller, Kaylee Yoder, Audra Dial, Elizabeth Harris, Allison Norris, Belen Baltazar Prado, Hayden Hershberger, Kaydance Judy, Julia Peterson, Alexis Rollins, Autumn Yoder, Owen Ross, Toby Hawkins, Jordan Sheaffer, Peyton Smith, Jonathan Bate, Emily Heckenast, Keelynn Hornish, Ella Shetler, Elizabeth Scott, Nicalys O’ Brien, Micah Sword, Jacqyln Golden, Robert Stephens, Dexter Strong, Paige Truman, Giada White and Carson Golden.
Shawn Mullet, William Herr, Theodore Minnis, Elizabeth Quiroz-Talavera, Tennyson Scott, Bryceson Vannoster, Ryan Miller, Nora Clemans, Addelyn Thoden, Kayson Carter, Naomi Lopez, Katelynn Smith, Jenna Brown, Evan Gidings, Charles Blakely, Ethan Cripe, Scott Bushnell, Zoey Estes, Shery Reyes, Willow Short and Logan Yoder. Also, Cortana Hellman, Brisa Velazquez, Chloe Eash, Selah Gingerich, Kara Lehane, Arriana Macias, Petra Miller, Hannalee Schmucker, Lexi Adams, Emily Lambert, Addison Martin, Mea Martin, Alexiana Bechtold, Heidi Brown, Brooklyn Manning, Gabbie Stahl, Alaina Crowder, Christina Jackson, Izabella Macias, Zoe Miller, Reylyn Mitschelen, Kalina Sprague and Emma French.
RED REGIMENT NorthWood’s Red Regiment show title this year is “Vi-TRUE-vian.” The band has been practicing several times a week to prepare for upcoming competitions.
KEEPING TO THE BEAT The Red Regiment percussion section keeps to the beat at practice recently at NorthWood High School..
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT The Red Regiment marching band practices several times a week to prepare for football games and upcoming competitions.
Tippecanoe Valley Marching Band
THE VIKING GUARD Tippecanoe Valley High School’s band has 26 members. In the first row from left are Gabby Harter, Ein Keckler, Graycen Guthrie, Savannah Beigh, Audrey Long, Kaitlyn Thompson and Amanda Rivera. In the second row are Alex Engle, David Walker, Sage Jeffrey, Mia Martinez, Eli Shewman and Tessa Rich. In the third row are Santiago Rosas, Drew Evans, Carson Meredith, Payton Hull and Caleb Michaelsen. In the fourth row are Kodiak Hillen, Carter Pearson, Francisco Ramirez, Makynna Wright, Simeon Skipper, Carly Sriver, Cameren Johnson and Aaron Cooper. Photos provided by Janell Riner.
SOUNDING THE TRUMPET Tippecanoe Valley High School Vikings Marching Band member Francisco Ramirez plays the trumpet at the Mentone Egg Festival parade.
Tippecanoe Valley Marching Band Whitko Marching Band
TVHS band program shapes students with music
By MAKSYM HART Staff Writer
Tippecanoe Valley High School’s Viking Guard may not perform field shows under stadium lights, but band Director Janell Riner said the program still plays an outsized role in shaping students, uniting the community and teaching life lessons that extend beyond music.
Consisting of 26 members — seven flutes, three clarinets, five saxophones, eight trumpets, one trombone and two percussionists — the band stays active in the community.
The Viking Guard participates in the Akron Fourth of July and Mentone Egg Festival parades, performs as a pep band during football and basketball seasons, and holds regular concerts throughout the year.
While the group doesn’t stage elaborate marching field shows like some larger schools, Riner said its presence is still felt.
“Our first parade is the first weekend in June, so the new Viking Guard for each year starts in June, well before the school year begins,” she said. “It builds camaraderie in the program right away. The group is well formed and well gelled before the school year even starts.”
Riner emphasized the band’s visibility in the community as an important part of its mission.
Whether at games or parades, the music connects students with their neighbors and gives parents a point of pride.
“It’s a very visible component of the school out in the community,” she said. “We get so much positive feedback … at our games, in coffee shops on Saturday mornings. That means the world to us.”
She also highlighted how participating in band builds discipline and teaches students to be part of something larger than themselves.
“Playing an instrument and being a musician is just a really outstanding way to do that,” Riner said. “Being a musician puts you in a unique group immediately. Live music elevates any event, and the people who can do that are fewer and fewer.”
The band program also benefits from community support. Riner pointed to the opening of the school’s new auditorium last year as a tangible reminder of how much value residents place on the arts.
“That is a very huge symbol of the support of our community that we will be eternally grateful for,” Riner said. Challenges remain, particularly in balancing rehearsal schedules with students’ other commitments.
In smaller, rural schools, Riner explained, many students participate in multiple activities, making time management essential. Still, she sees this as an advantage.
“It really teaches kids good time management,” she said. “When they leave school, whether going into the workforce or college, those lifeskills … really serve them well when they get out into the world.”
Beyond the music itself, Riner stresses situational awareness and professionalism.
From appropriate dress for concerts to proper etiquette during performances, she said these lessons can prepare students for interviews and careers.
“We always want to show people, whether it’s how we play or the way we look, that we care about what we’re doing and we care about the audience,” she said. “If they can take that with them, no matter what they do, they’ll stand out.”
Looking ahead, Riner hopes to expand opportunities for the band to travel and possibly take part in the America 250 celebrations.
“Music and history are absolutely intertwined,” she said. “I’d like to be involved in that national celebration in some capacity.”
For Riner, the Viking Guard is a way to help students find their place in the community, giving them tools, which will carry them far beyond the walls of Tippecanoe Valley High School.
Whitko’s band plays in ‘blaze of glory’
By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer
“This is a lot more dramatic than what you’d see in other bands,” said Whitko Band Director John Van Patten. He is referring to the band’s show this year, a Western-themed extravaganza titled “Blazing Glory.”
Van Patten is in his ninth year directing Whitko Junior-Senior High School’s band. His wife, Kelly Van Patten, acts as assistant director.
There are 27 members, including seven woodwinds, 13 brass and six percussion. This year’s drum major is senior Ella Thomas.
“We did the math and 68% of our band are freshmen and sophomores. Bodes well for the future, but a very young band,” said Van Patten.
Without a color guard, he said, everyone in the band pitches in on creating the visual and dramatic aspects of the show.
“The kids get to costume themselves; they get to build a character. Various things we do throughout the show have an individual quality,” he explained.
This approach has been received very positively not just by Whitko’s band students, but by other bands, as well.
“We were at Carroll (High School). Carroll has a very large program, a very successful band. And a bunch of kids were saying, ‘Wow, I wish I could do that.’ That was kind of cool, to hear a band of 200 talking about what our band of 27 kids was doing, and they wished they could do that,” Van Patten said.
Much of the show is popular music, including themes from “The Lone Ranger,” “The Good, The Bad and the Ugly,” and “The Mandalorian.” The ballad is a blend of “Hurt” by Johnny Cash and “My Body Is A Cage” by Peter
Gabriel. The show closes with Van Patten’s own arrangement of Bon Jovi’s “Wanted Dead or Alive.”
Kelly Van Patten is in charge of the choreography. The couple met when she was in color guard and he was a trumpet player in the band at Northrop High School in Fort Wayne.
Whitko’s goal this year, and every year, is to make it to the state finals in Indianapolis. Two other bands have moved into Class D with them, making for even fiercer competition.
“We’ve been to several big shows and we’ve been kind of in the middle of things, which is the minimum of where we want to be,” John Van Patten said of Whitko’s competition placement so far.
At the Carroll invitational Saturday, Sept. 20, Whitko placed seventh out of 11 bands in its class.
“The bottom line, though, is that we’re really only competing with ourselves,” Van Patten emphasized.
Each season, he hopes to teach the importance of continual improvement to his students.
“I always preach there’s no defense in marching band; it’s not like we can go out and tackle the other team. What other people, other bands are doing, is not really your concern. You have control over your own rehearsal, your own performance, your own destiny, really,” he explained. “As long as you can improve, I think that lesson really sticks with kids. I also talk a lot about how we don’t have a bench. ... Every kid’s a starter in band. We need everyone to give 100%.”
Upcoming competitions include an open class invitational at Homestead High School Saturday, Oct. 11; regionals at Carroll High School Saturday, Oct. 18; and semi-state at Franklin Community High School Saturday, Nov. 1. The state finals will take place Saturday, Nov. 8, at Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis.
seven woodwinds, 13 brass and six percussion. Photo provided by John Van Patten.
YEEHAW Whitko’s band is pictured in costume for their Western-themed show, “Blaze of Glory.” Without a color guard, the band creates its own visual elements for each show. Photo provided by John Van Patten.
Triton Marching Band
MARCHING
TROJANS Triton
Junior-Senior High School’s Marching Trojans number 22, including four woodwinds, six brass, three percussion, eight color guard and drum major Darrin King. Photo provided by Jessica Strevy.
Triton band strives for ‘balance’ in all things
By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer
“This is very much a rebuilding kind of year,” said Rebecca Pollock, who is in her first year as band director at Triton Junior-Senior High School. “While it’s great to do well at shows, what we really need is to make sure we feel steady and solid as a band, and that we enjoy being here. Once we have that culture built, the fruit of it will be doing well.”
Triton’s Marching Trojans band has 22 total members, made up of four woodwinds, six brass, three percussion, eight color guard and drum major Darrin King. About half its members, Pollock said, are junior high students. Also supporting the program with Pollock are Charlie Laurence, percussion staff, and Raquel Tutle, color guard.
In keeping with the director’s strive for steadiness within the band, this year’s show theme is “Balance.” Music for the show includes “They Stood At The Edge of the Sky” by Roland Barrett and “1,000 Airplanes on the Roof,” by Philip Glass.
“That’s kind of about balancing at the edge of something,” Pollock said of the Barrett piece. “This year, we’re trying to think about creating balance in terms of wellness. We’re using a lot of stretching and yoga poses (in the choreography) and using that to evoke an idea of bringing balance to your life.”
Triton is an Open Class D band, a class it also shares with Whitko. Schools are placed in classes based on their size. So far, Triton has placed fifth at the Goshen Invitational Sept. 6; seventh at the Northwestern Invitational Sept. 13; and 10th at the Carroll Invitational Sept. 20.
However, there is no set competition goal this year. Pollock is more focused on the students’ learning experience and the lessons they take away from their time in band.
“We just want to do our best, and I want for the kids to have fun. If we get high marks, that’s great, but ultimately it’s less about the prizes we get and more about the experience we have, the things we learn,” Pollock explained. “I hope that they learn how to play and move beautifully, and that they learn some problem-solving skills ... Grit, being able to push through when things get hard.”
As Pollock pointed out, there are many logistical knots to untangle before the band can even think about performing — transport, equipment loading, being in the right place at the right time and so on.
“We have a loading crew for our trailer and those kids
Good Luck To All Schools
have figured out on their own, how to fit our equipment in and how to load it better than before,” she mentioned. Upcoming Saturday competitions include state preliminaries at Plymouth High School, Oct. 11; regionals at Car-
BALANCE Triton’s color guard practices the yoga-inspired moves in this year’s show, “Balance.” In front from left are Leyton “Tofu” Strevy, Alyssa Brunner and Jennie Schwartz. In back is Maci Damron.
NOTES ON NOTES
roll High School, Oct. 18; and semistate at Franklin Community High School, Nov. 1. If the band places well in the these competitions, they will advance to the state finals at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
RIGHT:
Triton band Director Rebecca Pollock, left, goes over sheet music with pianist, Addyson Brunner, at a recent rehearsal, held indoors due to rain.
Wawasee Marching Band
Wawasee is getting into the ‘Teen Spirit’
Text and Photos By LAUREN ZEUGNER
Staff Writer
The Wawasee Marching Pride is off to a great start this band season having recently won the Penn Carnival of Bands and the North Western Invitational at Kokomo in early September.
This year’s show is “Teen Spirit,” and yes, it does feature the music of Nirvana. Band Director Tony Pawlicki explained it has an emotional feel that can be dark and murky at times.
It starts off with “What a Wonderful World” and also features “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” “Paint it Black,” and “Sound of Silence.”
“It’s easy to connect with,” Pawlicki said. “It’s easier for the audience to relate to.”
The show features a lot of movement and a lot more acting by band members with the entire show on the field.
“We are easily two to three weeks ahead of previous years,” Pawlicki said about the show’s development. “It’s been a really good year from that point.”
In rehearsals, the work has been focused on solidifying the show.
Pawlicki found the arrangement in 2024, but put it on the shelf, knowing he may want to use it later.
“It fits well with the senior leadership we have this year,” he said.
He’s also using Craig Fitzpatrick as the show arranger. Fitzpatrick has arranged two of Wawasee’s previous shows. Visual design for the show was done by Joey Ore-
Continued on page 8
STEP IN TIME — Urbano Lopez, Vanessa Villa and Bryson Spoor practice their stepping during a recent rehearsal.
WARRIORS IN THE HOUSE The Wawasee Marching Pride features 55 performers and drum major Weston Plikerd.
Wawasee Marching Band
Continued from page 7
fice, Joe Huls, Jessica Smith and Sara Pickler.
When preparing a show, Pawlicki listens to about 60-70 different arrangements, whittling them down.
While he’s working on selecting the music, he’s keeping in mind the potential of the band while having to guess how much growth the kids will do from band camp into full band season.
This year, the band is 57 members strong. Pawlicki explained the numbers are down sightly due to a very small eighth grade class. He said his hope for this band season is band members experience success and growth, both as an individual and as a team.
While marching band is competitive it is also a creative outlet for students. For some, it’s a second home for them while for others, it’s their
first home. It’s more than supporting the football or basketball teams, although that is an important component to marching band.
Pawlicki said the real focus of band is learning life skills, such as the value of commitment, grit and determination.
“They learn not to quit,” he said.
The band is made up of 36 winds, 11 percussion, seven color guard and Weston Plikerd as drum major this year.
Pawlicki is assisted by Kris Stump, assistant director; Sara Pickler, color guard director; and assistant directors Kassy Klinefelter, Chris Dykhuisen. The instructional staff are Corbin Keene, Ben Essick, Matt Murdock and Hope Bechtel.
The Wawasee Marching Pride has been Scholastic Class B State Finalists from 2021-2024.
DRUM MAJOR Wawasee’s Drum Major Weston Plikerd keeps everyone on the beat.
TEAMWORK — Alexis Steg, left, helps AJ Evans with the strap of her rifle.
WORKING ON CHOREOGRAPHY Ellie Eltzroth, Lilly Weisser and Kaitlyn McCreary work on keeping the choreography tight during a recent rehearsal.
Carter Edgar, left, looks on while Band Director Tony Pawlicki offers Reese Steg some assistance with his saxophone.
WARMING UP — Kaitlyn Large, Drake Stookey, Bentley Truman, Aidan Bartman, Kaitlyn McCreary and Katelyn Plikerd during a recent rehearsal.
Warsaw Marching Band
WCHS Band marches to success
By MAKSYM HART Staff Writer
For Warsaw Community High School students, the marching band is a place to belong, learn, and grow.
“Band is important because it gives students a well-rounded education,” said Mark Ziegler, band director. “Music ties into math, science, language arts, and students who are involved in music often do better academically. But beyond that, band gives them a purpose, a sense of belonging, and teaches commitment, dedication and teamwork.”
This year’s show, “Ringmaster’s Call,” takes audiences into a dark and theatrical circus world. The three-part performance — “The Call,” “The Conjuring,” and “The Calamity” — follows a character drawn into an abandoned circus and transformed into its leader.
“The show starts with the circus calling this person to become their ringmaster,” Ziegler explained.
“By the second movement,” Ziegler continued, “they accept the role, and in the third movement, they turn power-hungry and sinister. At the end, the ringmaster takes down the drum major and laughs.”
Senior Melanie Herztler serves as drum major, while student Wyatt Phillips plays the ringmaster.
To enhance the storyline, three upright rings on the
field create a “three-ring circus” effect, setting the stage for what Ziegler described as “a little weird, dark and sinister.”
Students, he added, are enthusiastic.
“Several have told me this is their favorite show they’ve ever done,” he said.
While the music is central, Ziegler stressed the band’s broader impact.
“If our only goal is to teach them music, then we’re falling short,” he said. “They’re learning friendships, how to work together even when they don’t get along, how to adapt when plans change. Those life lessons will stay with them forever.”
For Ziegler, his own background in musical groups shaped who he is today.
“That’s what I want for them, skills and values they can carry into life, whether or not they keep playing after high school,” he said.
Warsaw’s band program is backed by an active booster organization. About 40 parents regularly travel with the band, helping move equipment, prepare food, assemble props and chaperone students.
“Our boosters are very important,” Ziegler said. “And the school corporation also provides resources like instruments and staff funding.”
The program has steadily grown in recent years, reaching 88 students this season. Eleven staff members
assist with instruction.
Ziegler hopes to continue that growth despite statewide changes to graduation requirements that give students more options and career pathways.
The Warsaw band competes through the Indiana State School Music Association.
Recent competitions at Goshen, DeKalb and Carroll high schools brought recognition, including second place and a tie for best music at Carroll.
The season continues with a community performance scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Oct. 18, at Fisher Field.
“We love performing for the community,” Ziegler said. “It’s part of how we keep the program visible and continue recruiting. Ultimately, the goal is always the sam — to help our students become better musicians, better performers and better people.”
On Saturday, Sept. 6, the band marched at the Goshen Invitational. They performed at other invitationals in DeKalb, Carroll, Penn and Homestead Sept. 13, 20, 27, and Oct. 4.
The band will next perform at the Indiana State School Music Association Scholastic Preliminaries Saturday, Oct. 11, in order to qualify for the ISSMA Scholastic Finals Saturday, Oct. 25.
There is also a free community performance Saturday, Oct. 18, at the school’s Fisher Field.
THE BRASS FAMILY Saxophone players practice with Warsaw’s Marching Tiger Pride. Photo by Maksym Hart.
MARCHING TIGER PRIDE Warsaw’s Marching Tiger Pride band has 77 members, directed by Mark Ziegler, with help from David Knouse and Joe Peloza. Photo provided by Mark Ziegler.
