The Mail-Journal - May 15, 2024

D.O.R.A.

meeting brings questions, concerns

Approximately 20 people attended a public meeting at the Syracuse Community Center to learn more about “Designated Outdoor Refreshment Areas.” The meeting was held Tuesday night, May 14.

Town Manager David Wilkinson explained to those present the meeting was strictly exploratory as the Indiana State Legislature recently passed a law allowing D.O.R.A.s Police Chief Jim Layne and Ashley Dillon, executive director of the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce attended the meeting as did Councilman Bill Musser.

Prior to the meeting, Musser said.”I am against this. I think this type of thing is for an area with a lot of shops. We don’t have that in the uptown Syracuse. We have a lot of businesses and bars.” He also expressed concern about a patron leaving an restaurant or bar with a drink and being pulled over for having an open container. The new law allows a community to establish a zone where alcohol can be served and taken out of an establishment. The alcohol is served in a distinctive cup and the patron may wander through the D.O.R.A. enjoying the beverage with no issues. Patrons are permitted to purchase two drinks per establishment in the D.O.R.A. The idea is to draw more business to a D.O.R.A.

Since the law was passed 10 to 20 different communities

throughout the state have established D.O.R.A.s including Warsaw and Winona Lake. Under the law, Syracuse could have seven D.O.R.A.s. Wilkinson explained to create a D.O.R.A. a bar or similar establishment must agree to be the anchor. The D.O.R.A. would then surround that anchor. Signage would indicate the boundaries of the D.O.R.A. so patrons would know if they are entering or exiting. the designated space. Restrictions for a D.O.R.A. are the borders cannot be within 200 feet of a church or school. If a D.O.R.A. boundary is established too close to either, the church or school may sign off on it. If the church or school chooses not to sign off, the boundary must be changed.

A D.O.R.A. is allowable from 7 a.m. to 3 a.m. seven days a week. However a community may impose its own restrictions on a D.O.R.A., including having it just

for a special event such as a festival. Currently, Syracuse has a relatively new ordinance that permits outdoor dining as long as there is some type of fencing or barrier between patrons and the sidewalk. The D.O.R.A. would eliminate the need for the barriers.

One person at the meeting asked if Wilkinson envisioned people boating into the municipal pier to participate in the D.O.R.A. Wilkinson explained in theory the D.O.R.A. could increase foot traffic that could lead to shop owners extending their business hours.

Another attendee asked why the D.O.R.A. was needed. Wilkinson said it wasn’t needed, but it is an economic development tool and it’s his responsibility to bring it to the town council to consider. He said the council is at least interested in looking at it.

Another attendee said she didn’t see a need, that there

wasn’t enough shopping in the uptown area to make it worthwhile.

“I just don’t see any purpose for this. We’re small,” she said.

Some attendees expressed concern about patrons being overserved or those underage getting access to alcohol in the D.O.R.A.

One person asked if Wilkinson was for establishing a D.O.R.A.

He said he was indifferent to the idea and he wouldn’t be passing the ordinance, the town council would make the final decision.

One merchant said she’s hearing “revitalization” not alcohol and that if there’s more people in the uptown area she would consider expanding her hours.

Stores would have the option to be D.O.R.A. friendly or not with special signage. Those that were not D.O.R.A. friendly could deny customers entrance if they had alcohol with them.

Wilkinson stressed the Continued on page 2

Milford Town Council gets details on water meter replacement and economic revitalization project

Ryan Lareau of Commonwealth Engineers came forward with information on next steps in Milford’s water meter replacement process during the Monday, May 13 town council meeting.

Milford received a grant from the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs in February for construction of meter replacements. The next step is to get engineering under contract so the process can begin. The total cost of Commonwealth’s bid package is $20,000, with $15,000 going to the design of the project and $5,000 for bidding.

Contractors will be bidding on the procurement and furnishing of the water meters as well as installation, and coordinating with

residents. Bidding should start in August, with the goal for construction starting in October.

“That’s optimistic, ultimately it’ll depend on how quickly they could come up with 500 meters. ... Off the cuff, my assumption would be they could replace them all within, say, three months,” said Lareau.

Clerk-Treasurer Tricia Gall pointed out Milford applied for an environmental waiver and if they do not receive it they won’t go through with the plan. The council approved accepting Commonwealth’s agreement, contingent upon receiving the waiver from OCRA.

Olivia Nix of the Michiana Area Council of Governments also came forward for a public hearing on the economic revitalization project Milford is under-

South Shore Social to open Memorial Day weekend

The restaurant at South Shore has had many reincarnations over the years. From a higher end restaurant to a beach themed place to the new, soon to be open, South Shore

taking. Nix outlined the basics of the project, which is being done through the OCRA block grant program: an economic plan to “serve as an actionable road map to revitalize the local economy in the aftermath of the pandemic,” she explained.

The town is working on their planning grant application, due June 21. They’re seeking $50,000 with a 10% local match, sourced from Milford’s ARPA funds; about 54.3% of the grant funds will be used to benefit low-to-moderate income individuals.

Nix noted the project would not result in the displacement of any individuals or businesses. She also emphasized that the money is to fund a study, not any actual construction at this point. After a firm is contracted to do the study, Continued on page 2

Wawasee School Board approves phase one bids, discretionary fund

During its regular monthly board meeting, held Tuesday, May 14, the Wawasee School Board heard from Dr. Brandon Penrod, CFO for the corporation. The school corporation held a phase one bid opening Monday, May 6.

The bids were placed by prequalified contractors for the work and supply of materials for the Wawasee High School performing arts center and CTE renovations. The bids received were for phase one; the second phase will be coming out to bid in August or September.

“The general description of Bid Phase No. 1 is ‘Make Ready Work’ with classroom renovations, utility relocation and building demolition,” Penrod explained.

The scope of work varies from bid package to bid package. Bids were placed for masonry, general trades, metal stud, gyp board, ceiling installation, resilient flooring, painting, fire protection, mechanical, electrical, earthwork

and site utilities.

“At the bid opening, if you have never been to one, someone cuts open the sealed envelopes, hands it to us and we read it,” Penrod explained to the board. “At the end of that time, we get an apparent low and so we go back and check compliance, make sure they submitted their bid bonds and performance bonds, which is done offsite. They bring it back to us and we get a winning bid recommendation.”

This project is one half of a larger $75 million project. The corporation split the amount in half, $35 million to the performing arts center and CTE renovations and $35 million to the construction of a new Milford Elementary School, with $5 million to buffer any ancillary costs. The costs of phase one will be pulled from the $35 million budget.

“Each scope of work is a separate bid package. Each bid package then gets awarded to somebody different, with the exception of masonry and general trades,” Penrod explained. “We take that total and then we add to it any Continued on page 2

Supporters come out for proposed plats of The Oaks

Several neighbors came forward to support a proposed plan for six lots of The Oaks, located on James Lake in Tippecanoe Township, during the Kosciusko County Board of Zoning Appeals regular meeting Tuesday morning, May 14. The Oaks is located on an old church camp on James Lake.

The hearing addressed two requests, one for a variance permitting a 20 foot setback from the water’s edge of lots 1 and 2 which was approved. The two lots are on two lagoons that were created years ago.

The second request the BZA approved was allowing lots 1-5 to have building setbacks to be less than 75 feet. Local attorney Steve Snyder told the board the lots are 75 feet at the water’s edge and go back to approximately 270 feet.

Snyder told the BZA the established road in the area will be paved and the lots will have sewer. There will also be a restrictive covenant requiring all homes built in the area to adhere to local zoning ordinances and set backs.

Lisa Bender came back to the board after having her case continued from the March meeting. She was seeking a variance which would permit being allowed to have a residence addition and new foundation under an entire house remain 11 feet from The south right-of-way, 11.8 feet from the north right-of-way and 1 foot from the side property line.

Bender’s contractor started work without having proper permits. There were also concerns about her septic system. Bender was given time to address those and other issues. Tuesday morning she came before the board seeking information regarding any options with the existing septic system. Installing a new one would be extremely expensive.

Stating they could not help her and directing her back to the health department, the board made a motion to continue for 30 days. Several remonstrators came forward pointing out Bender and her contractor have caused numerous problems in attempting to fix this home. “This isn’t acceptable. The area is very tight,” said neighbor Jeffery Bell, who noted the new addition is in the road’s right -of -way.

Others claimed Bender started work without a permit or knowing where her property lines are located. One remonstrator noting others in the neighborhood were denied variances from the BZA for projects requested it do the same here.

“It’s an eyesore,” she said. “Pushing everyone (driving) into Mr. Case’s (a neighbor and remonstrator) front yard isn’t a solution.”

Neighbor William Doyle seemed to support Bender saying she was trying to fix up the neighborhood when others in the area purchased properties that had holes in the roof.

The board approved giving Bender an additional 30 days to work with the health department. The property is in Van Buren Township.

The BZA approved the following petitions:

•A request from Thomas Michalski for a variance to permit allowing a covered deck to remain 20 feet from the water’s edge. The property is located in Tippecanoe Township.

•A request from Kyle Dunphy for a variance to allow a residence to remain reconstructed and new foundation installed 3 feet from the south property line, 13 feet from the southeast water’s edge, 11 feet from the north water’ edge and 123 feet from the road’s rightof-way. The property is located in Tippecanoe Township.

•A request from Gary Green for a variance allowing a shed to

D.O.R.A. meeting

Continued from page 1

D.O.R.A. is just one tool among several the council is looking at including a facade grant and working with the chamber of commerce on a main street project.

One attendee asked if a D.O.R.A. was about outdoor dining, people being able to take alcohol from an establishment or both. Wilkinson said both.

remain as placed 6 inches from adjacent sheds and 8.6 feet from campers. The property is located in Tippecanoe Township.

•A request for a variance by Michael Ingle permitting the construction of a gazebo 7 feet from the water’s edge. The property is in Tippecanoe Township.

•Two requests from Nicholas Kern for an exception to allow an oversized accessory building to remain in a residential district. The property is located in Van Buren Township.

•A request from Nancy Townsend to an exception for the purpose of the construction of a residence addition 2 feet from the south property line. The request was approved with the provision she presents a letter from the neighbor to the south supporting the project.

The BZA denied the following petitions:

•An appeal by Ron Haskins after his case was heard by the hearing officer. Haskins sought a variance to construct a covered porch 14 feet from the rightof-way. The hearing officer approved a covered porch over the home’s back door. The BZA denied the request, supporting the hearing officer. The property is located in Tippecanoe Township.

•A request by Jennifer Leatherman for a variance to allow a shed to remain as placed by the previous owner, 0.7 feet from the north property line and 10.2 feet from the water’s edge. She was instructed to move the shed so it was 1.5 feet from the property line. The property is located in Tippecanoe Township.

•A request from Sally Reel to construct a garage 5 feet from the right of way of the road and 4 feet from the side property line. Several remonstrators spoke out against the project, noting the Reels have a lot across the street they could construct a garage. The property is located in Turkey Creek Township.

Wawasee School

general conditions, any fees. We also have allowances, construction contingency, supplemental stones, shipping premiums, overtime and insurances.”

Weigand Construction won the bid for masonry and general trades for a final bid amount of $149,600 and $203,600 respectively. Jack Laurie Group won a combination bid for metal stud, gyp board, ceilings and insulation; resilient flooring and painting with a final bid of $78,695. FE Moran won the bid for fire protection with a final bid of $10,450. Core Mechanical won the bid for mechanical with a final bid of $83,547. Gaylor Electric won the bid for electrical with a final bid of $154,000. G&G Hauling won the bid for earthwork and site utilities with a final bid of $804,822.

Once construction contingency, general conditions, allowances, overtime and shift premiums, insurances and other various fees are accounted for, the construction total for phase one is $1,843,117, which the board approved. According to the bid package recap, interior renovation and exterior work is scheduled to begin Monday, June 3.

In addition to hearing the good news of the performing arts center project coming along, the board also heard good news from K21 Health Services. The K21 Health Foundation is funding a new initiative for Wawasee Community School Corporation, the Health Services Discretionary Fund. The organization donated $10,000 to jump start the fund.

“The idea is to resource the nurses and health services areas of the school and to have money at the ready. We trust the nurses and team to make those decisions,” Rich Haddad, president and CEO of the K21 Health Foundation, explained to the board. “We’re more than happy to resource in the finance department so kids can get the help they need. It’s our pleasure to support the front line of health at Wawasee schools.”

The school corporation received a handful of other donations, including: $100 from Northern Lakes Realty for WHS Academic Hall of Fame; $250 from Kiwanis Club of Lakeland for WHS Academic Hall of Fame; $500 from Kiwanis Club of Lakeland for WHS Key Club; $500 from DSI for WHS band; $250 from Ace Pest Control for WHS band; $250 from PolyWood for WHS band; $75 from Syracuse Bud’s Body Shop for WHS drama; $200 from Pete and Kristin Bonner for WHS drama; and $1,000 from The Blackbaud Giving Fund for North Webster Elementary.

The board approved the employment of Karen Brock. Brock will serve as the principal of Syracuse Elementary School, replacing principal Eric Speicher. Speicher served as principal for 12 years before he took a job opportunity for a position within the Tippecanoe Valley School Corporation. Her position is effective July 1.

“I have already felt so welcomed by the community, by the school corporation and by the interviewing committee,” Brock said. “Meeting the students today was incred-

ible, so special and exactly why we do what we do.”

Additionally, Jon Everingham, CTE director, and Ryan Zimmerman, POLYWOOD human resources, two of the brains behind POLYWOOD Academy Powered by Pathways announced the instructor of the course is 16-year POLYWOOD employee, Jeremy McKinzie. An open house was hosted at POLYWOOD, directly after the school board meeting, for students and parents to mingle, meet McKinzie and learn more about the program.

“The POLYWOOD Academy is a collaboration with Pathways CTE Cooperative, POLYWOOD, Orthoworx and Purdue University’s IN-MaC program,” Everingham explained. “This innovative program merges POLYWOOD industry expertise with Pathways’ forward-thinking educational approach, offering students a relevant manufacturing curriculum and hands-on experiences in industrial maintenance, robotics and engineering.”

Students enrolled in POLYWOOD Academy will participate in a two-year program. In year one, students will focus on curriculum designed to build practical skills and the application of theoretical understanding.

“I’m definitely excited to get started,” McKinzie said. “They seem like a great group of kids.” The next regular school board meeting will be 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 11, at the Wawasee Professional Learning Center, 801 S. Sycamore St., Syracuse.

Wilkinson will make a report to the town council at its regular meeting next week. Musser told the crowd they are welcome to attend the meeting.

The Syracuse Town Council meets at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 21, in the council chambers of Town Hall.

Heidi Blake, drug free communities director for Kosciusko Cares, outlined some best practices for a D.O.R.A. to discourage underage drinking. These included mandatory ID checks, different colored wrist bands based on age, correct colored cups and training for those participating in the D.O.R.A. She also outlined several negative impacts as well such as underage drinking, binge drinking and driving impaired.

Milford Redevelopment Commission holds annual meeting on taxing units

The Milford Redevelopment Commission held its annual meeting Monday, May 13, to inform any governing bodies of the impact the commission’s activities have had on their taxing units. No representatives of governing bodies were present at the meeting.

The commission also accepted a resolution for an excess value determination. An excess value determination states if there are any extra tax increment funds that must be passed back to impacted areas. According to Jim Higgins of LWG CPAs & Advisors in Indianapolis, Milford’s financial advising firm, there is no excess value to be passed back. Development

of the Eastfield subdivision in the residential TIF district is still in infancy, and there have been no further developments in the industrial TIF district. The commission’s resolution will inform the state that there is no excess at this time.

The commission must also create a spending plan for the state before December of this year.

Syracuse park board holds meeting at Veterans Park

The Syracuse Parks and Recreation Board met Monday night, May 13, at Veterans Memorial Park at Crosson Mill. It is the first of several parks the board will hold its monthly meetings at this year.

Chad Jonsson, park superintendent, gave the tree board report. He said trees were planted at the Schrock Athletic Complex on Arbor Day. Students from Syracuse Elementary School helped with the plantings. Eight trees were planted on the south side of the complex.

“It is the best we had yet,” he said. “The kids enjoyed it. This will help with our Tree City USA application.”

The Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams and the Kosciusko Soil and Water Conservation District helped at the event. Other trees have been planted around the town, too. He said he is working on maintenance and tree removals, which more than likely will be this fall, possibly in September.

The Henry Ward Park project is nearly finished. New bathrooms were installed and new playground equipment will be placed at the

park. A new concrete sidewalk will be completed as well.

“It will be a couple more weeks but we are moving along,” he said.

Jonsson gave an update on the Laudeman Park project. Polywood has donated two benches, and a butterfly garden will be built at the park. So far, seeds have been planted as well as a layer of rocks.

Jonsson said the Syracuse Community Center roof is completed. He said there hasn’t been any leaks since the new roof has been installed.

He said four new benches and four picnic tables have been donated by Polywood for outside the SCC. The others were 20 years old, he said.

Jonsson gave the summer staff report. He said two employees have started working. The maintenance position has also been filled. Summer staff will be working 40 hours a week.

He has only gotten one lifeguard application but more guards are needed this summer.

“If we get to four, we can do weekends,” he said of manning Lakeside Park’s beach.

There’s a shortage of lifeguards, Jonsson said. Jace Stewart, a park board member, asked if Jonsson

would consider paying for potential lifeguards’ training, including high school students.

“We may have to consider it,” said Jonsson.

Jonsson gave the financial report for April 8 to May 13 and April’s report.

Darin Lursen, program director, gave the program report.

A shredding event is from 9 a.m. to noon this Saturday, May 18. There is a four-box limit. The cost is a $20 donation.

He said Touch-a-Truck, which was Saturday, May 4, went well and there were 15 trucks.

He said the middle school prom was well attended with over 200 students taking part in the dance. This is just under half the Wawasee Middle School population.

Mudtastic will be at 9 a.m. Saturday, June 22. People can register online or at the SCC. The cost is $25.

The farmers market starts this Saturday, May 18. The market is from 9 a.m to 1 p.m. There are seven spots filled already. The cost to be a vendor is $150 for the season (16 dates) or $10 a day.

The next meeting will be at 5:30 p.m. Monday, June 10, at Hoy’s Beach, Syracuse.

Milford Town Council

the public will have input in the planning process.

The public hearing was closed with no questions.

Ryan Desmith of Chore Time Brock came forth with compliance forms for two abatements, which the council approved.

Joe Shetler of the Milford Food Bank asked the council for a favorable recommendation on their upcoming construction project to bring to the Area Plan Commission. The project, on the corner of James Street and Emeline Street, would require the switching of a fire hydrant to a service line for the new building’s sprinkler system. After some discussion with street, water and park superintendent Steven Marquart, the council ruled they had no objections.

The police department had nothing to report this month.

In fire department business, vice president Ken Long informed the council that they had lost a buyer for the old fire engine the department is replacing. The council agreed to pursue other avenues of sale, setting a minimum price of $45,200 on the engine and a minimum of $12,500 on an old Ford F350 rescue truck.

Wastewater superintendent Mark Brubaker presented three quotes for eliminating the Turkey Creek lift station and replacing it with a gravity sewer: $25,424.50 from Siteworks, $64,700 from Beer & Slabaugh, and $36,500 from Kelso. The council approved going through Siteworks, as well as upgrades to two smaller lift sta-

tions from Indiana Pumpworks for $17,900.

In street business, Marquart gave notice that vector control season is coming up, advising residents to remove any standing water if possible and keep trees and bushes trimmed to prevent mosquito breeding.

Marquart gave two quotes for tree branch removal to better allow trash trucks through alleyways. The first came from Dan the Tree Man at $5,000, the other from Taylor Specialties Tree Services for $7,000. The council approved using Dan the Tree Man.

Marquart informed the council that the trash cans in the downtown area need to be replaced and presented three quotes for eight trash cans: $9,996 from Max R, $11,940 from Sister Bay Outdoor Furniture and $12,150 from Nexterra. The council approved going with Max R.

The water department is in need of changing the chlorine injection point at their well. Two quotes were presented: $16,502.68 from Mr. Rooter and $2,447.94 from Foil Plumbing & Heating. The council approved using Foil. The water department will also be receiving assistance from Commonwealth Engineers on taking an inventory of the town’s lead service lines. Commonwealth will send cards out to residents, asking them to identify what kind of service line they have and mail the cards back so that the town will know which lines need to be replaced. The council approved this assistance at a cost not to exceed $5,000.

In park department news, Marquart got approval for removal of dead tree branches in the park from Dan the Tree Man for $15,000. It was also agreed that plumbing in the park concession stand can be repaired with donated labor by Mr. Rooter and parts

Obituaries

Erich Douglas Walls, 56, Chesterton and Natti Crow Beach, Lake Wawasee, passed away on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024, in Valparaiso.

He was born on June 29, 1967, in Fairfield, Calif., to Douglas and Margaret “Peggy” (Poole) Walls. Erich married Deborah “Debbie” (Hueter) Walls on June 29, 1991, in Winnetka, Ill.

In addition to his loving wife of 32 years, Debbie Walls, Erich is survived by his mother, Peggy Walls of Syracuse; two children, Connor M. Walls of Seattle, Wash., and Morgan Walls of Chesterton; sister, Kimberly (Bert Braden) Walls of Santa Rosa, Calif.; uncle, Stephen (Jean Ann) Walls of Fishers; three nieces and a nephew; and several cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Douglas Doyle Walls. Erich graduated from Valparaiso High School with the class of 1985. Following high school, he went on to obtain his Bachelor’s Degree from Purdue University. Erich worked as an IT Architect for IBM, SugarCRM and most recently, CVS Aetna. He was able to experience many different activities throughout his life. Barefoot skiing, ice boating, snowboarding, wind surfing, snow skiing and sailing in the BVIs were just a few of those activities. He also acquired his commercial and private pilot’s license. One of his favorite past times was boating in his 40-foot Regal on Lake Michigan. He also enjoyed boating activities spent throughout his lifetime with his family on Lake Wawasee. Erich most recently attended First Presbyterian Church in Valparaiso.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. (central time) Saturday, June 15, at the First Presbyterian Church of Valparaiso, 3401 N. Valparaiso St., Valparaiso. A memorial visitation will be from 10 a.m. (central time) until the time of service at the church. Family and friend are invited to attend.

Cremation arrangements are entrusted to the care of Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home, 517 Broadway, Chesterton.

Memorial contributions can be made in Erich’s memory to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Donor Services, P.O. Box 22324, New York, N.Y. 10087, or to the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation (WACF), P.O. Box 548, Syracuse, IN 46567.

Online condolences may be made to the family at ee-fh.com.

Make summer safe

Summer brings sun, fun, and some health risks, if you aren’t careful. Here’s how to keep the “good” in the “good ol’ summertime,” say health experts.

Save Your Skin

• Avoid direct sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

• Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and long pants.

• Wear a wide-brimmed hat that shades your face, neck and ears. Protecting the scalp is especially important for people with fair or thinning hair.

• Seek shade whenever possible.

• Apply SPF 30, UVA/UVB sunscreen about 15 to 30 minutes before going into the water. Reapply regularly, especially after swimming, perspiring heavily or drying off with a towel.

Keep Your Cool To help prevent heat-related illness, drink plenty of fluids. When high temperatures combine with high humidity, be on the lookout for signs of heat exhaustion, including heavy sweating, muscle cramps, paleness, weakness, rapid heartbeat, headache, nausea and fainting.

Mature Life Features Copyright 2024

South Shore

have fun.”

When the previous tenant moved out, Dyson and Scherer attempted to find a partner to take over the restaurant. When that didn’t happen, and understanding they knew nothing about the restaurant business, they went about hiring experts to work alongside them. “We knew enough of the right people,” Dyson said.

“These guys are rock stars.”

Work started in February as the vision slowly came to fruition. Dyson and Scherer spent one afternoon brainstorming where things could go, which led to them removing a number of ceiling tiles. The result, 2 feet of extra ceiling space. The HVAC was put in the attic.

“We literally touched every wall,” Dyson said. And the community is excited to see what they’ve done. “When we started posting photos (on social media), we (quickly) had 1,000 followers,” he said.

For this season the South Shore Social will be open seating Thursday through Saturday. If someone wants to rent a room or the entire

North Webster Community Public Library —

facility earlier in the week, that may be possible.

Hours of operation will be 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, closed on Monday.

In order to use the simulated golf game, the interactive darts or the shuffle board court patrons will need to reserve a bay in advance online at southshoresocial. net. Dyson noted a credit card is required to use both the simulator and the interactive darts.

Only those ages 16 and older may use the interactive dart game.

Once they arrive, a game host will help patrons get started on the simulator. New furniture is coming to make the sim. area more comfortable.

“What we want to provide is a space where people can come interact and have fun,” Dyson said.

“This is the first of many great things on this property and we want to involve as many people who want to be involved. It’s not just Nate and I. We’re looking for entrepreneurs and visionaries.

South Shore Social welcomes families but families should be aware there is limited youth entertainment.

Piano now available for public use

The North Webster Community Public Library is pleased to announce the availability of an electronic piano for public use. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn or an experienced pianist practicing for performance, our piano room is open to everyone.

The piano room can be reserved in advance for up to two hours at a time. If no reservations are made, the room is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Patrons are encouraged to bring their own sheet music, although a selection of instruction booklets and music is available for use at the library. Additionally, the library’s iPads are equipped with instructional apps, enhancing the learning experience for users. Piano teachers are welcome to utilize the space for lessons. However, please note that the library cannot facilitate financial transactions or make change for payments.

The piano room is open during normal library hours: 10 a.m. to

7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

To reserve the piano room or for more information about this new offering, call the library at (574) 834-7122.

Weekly Library Events

The following activities are set to take place at North Webster Community Public Library. Attendees do not need to have a library card to participate in any of these events.

Summer Reading

Preregistration Begins North Webster Community Public Library is excited to announce that preregistration for the summer reading program begins May 20. This program is open to everyone, from birth through adults; no library card required. There are many awesome prizes for all age groups, so you won’t want to miss out this summer. Sign up in person at the library or online via our Beanstack app. For more information, call the library at (574)

834-7122.

Adult Events

Writer’s Corner will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 20.

This month’s writing theme is “April showers bring May flowers, but this year’s April brought a drought. Write about a spring without flowers. What would it be like?” Bring your poems, short stories or other writings and be prepared to share in this nonjudgmental atmosphere.

The Friends of the Library book sale will be happening on Thursday, May 23, Friday, May 24, and Saturday, May 25, at the North Webster Community Public Library. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. Hardback books cost $1, paperback books cost 50 cents and children’s books cost 25 cents. History books, biographies and inspirational fiction will be 50% off. All proceeds will go to help support library services and events.

Teen Events

Join in for a special Teen Toon Time at 3:30 p.m. Monday, May 20. Featuring everything from classic Saturday morning car-

toons to recent anime releases, this will be a relaxing evening filled with beloved animated shows. Snacks and drinks will be provided. No registration required.

For more information about any library events, call the North Webster library at (574) 834-7122, visit the library’s website nwcpl.org or click into the library’s Facebook page.

Letter to the editor

Accidents/Incidents

Kosciusko County Officers with the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office investigated the following incidents: Incidents

10:58 a.m. Thursday, May 9, 100 block of EMS T29 Lane, Leesburg. Someone tried to deposit a fake check.

9:06 p.m. Saturday, May 11, 400 block EMS T26 Lane, Leesburg. A caller reported property damage from a tree.

4:57 p.m. Saturday, May 4, 100 block EMS W17C Lane, North Webster. A caller reported a civil complaint.

Syracuse

Officers with the Syracuse Po-

lice Department investigated the following accident and incident: Accident

7:47 a.m. Monday, May 6, North Main Street and West Boston Street, Syracuse. Drivers: Kait Wood, 27, East Catherine Street, Milford; Tasha Thompson, 37, West Catherine Street, Milford; and Leah Glassburn, 48, West Wayne Street, Fort Wayne. Wood’s vehicle struck the rear of Thompson’s vehicle. Thompson’s vehicle was pushed into striking Glassburn’s vehicle. Damage under $1,001. Incident 10:29 a.m. Friday, May 10, 300 block East Maple Grove, Syracuse. Troy Morrow reported vehi-

Court News

Civil Plenary

Elkhart County

The following civil plenary was filed in Elkhart County Circuit Court: Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance, as subrogee of Aaron Weaver, Syracuse v. Skylar Stevens, Warsaw, $4,715.07

Superior Court III

The following fines for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Speeding — Carlos M. Camargo Paramo, Milford, $164.50 No valid driver’s license — Fredric S. Armstrong, Leesburg, $164.50

Failure of occupant to use safety belt — Jayden N. Rolston, Syracuse, $25; Vanessa A. Mayhew, Syracuse, $25

Failure to register, driving while suspended — Zachery B. Heim, Milford, $214.50

Marriage Licenses

cle theft. Value: $10,000. Warsaw

Officers with the Warsaw Police Department investigated the following accidents: Accidents

2:22 p.m. Friday, May 10, SR 15 and Fort Wayne Street, Warsaw. Drivers: Ruth D. Truman, 78, South Field Lane, Akron; Jason R. Diehl, 49, East Oldfield Drive Lot 55, Leesburg; and Jesse L. Hutcherson, 28, East Hanna Street, Columbia City. Truman was attempting to turn west onto East Fort Wayne Street when she hit Diehl’s vehicle while he was entering the intersection. Truman failed to yield and turned in front of Diehl’s vehicle, then hit Hutcherson’s vehicle while he was stopped at the red light. Truman complained of chest pain and was taken to Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital. Damage up to $25,000.

Scherer grateful to community for primary election experience

Dear Editor:

After the dust has settled from this 2024 primary campaign season, I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to the people of Kosciusko County for their incredible support during my recent campaign for Northern District County Commissioner. While the outcome may not have been what we hoped for, the journey has been invaluable to me. I am humbled by the support my family and I received during my campaign and I am thankful for the extra love and support my wife Lauren expressed through this journey for me as I ran. This was my first venture into county politics and I am thrilled by the response and encouragement I received from our community. Meeting so many passionate individuals and learning more

We welcome readers’ letters.

about what makes our county so special has been a truly enriching experience. I am more determined than ever to harness these resources to enhance the well being of Kosciusko County.

I am deeply grateful to everyone who supported me and helped spread the message of my campaign, centered on the values of family, community and opportunity. It means a great deal to me to have had such a positive and honest campaign experience. Integrity and authenticity are values I hold dear and I am proud that we maintained those principles throughout our campaign. I resisted the temptation to go negative and even chose to take the high road when false statements were made about me. I remained open and honest when presented with tough questions and kept

my focus on what I felt was best for our county, strengthening our foundation for a better tomorrow.

While this election chapter closes, my commitment to our community remains steadfast. I eagerly anticipate continuing my involvement in initiatives that promote growth, unity and progress for Kosciusko County. Building new relationships and collaborating with fellow community members excites me and I look forward to the opportunities ahead.

Once again, I appreciate everyone who believed in me, volunteered their time and supported our vision for a better Kosciusko County. Together, we will continue to make a positive difference.

With Sincere Gratitude, Nathan Scherer

Harmony K. Hill, 21, Syracuse, and Luchas D. Schoonover, 23, Syracuse

Marriage Dissolutions

The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in Kosciusko Superior Courts I and IV: Heileman — Elma Heileman, North Webster, and Dustin Heileman, North Webster. They were married Jan. 29, 2017, and separated May 3, 2024. Two minor children. Davis — Justine Davis, Cromwell, and Bobbie Davis II, LaGrange. They were married Aug. 10, 2019, and separated April 1, 2024. No minor children. Kreft — Shari L. Kreft, Leesburg, and Gerald D. Kreft, Leesburg. They were married Dec. 16, 2011, and separated May 8, 2024. No minor children.

The following couple has applied for a marriage license in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court Anne Torpy: Hill-Schoonover

Hall arrested for allegedly resisting law enforcement

7:37 a.m. Friday, May 10, 2501 Walton Blvd., Warsaw. Drivers: Randy E. Corfman, 63, East CR 450N, Leesburg; and Diana L. Garcia-Malagon, 26, North SR 14, Akron. Corfman was attempting to leave a parking space when he hit Garcia-Malagon’s vehicle. Damage up to $2,500.

Jail Bookings

Kosciusko County

The following people were booked in the Kosciusko County Jail:

May 10 — Kerry Lee Morton, 55, 5099 E. Armstrong Road, Leesburg, booked for failure to appear-felony. No bond listed.

May 8 — Terry Lee Bailey, 53, 111 EMS W30 Lane, No. 13, North Webster, booked for possession of methamphetamine and possession of paraphernalia. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

May 8 — Roger Eugene Kilty, 60, 4 EMS T15B Lane, Leesburg, booked for operating a motorboat while intoxicated. Bond: $700 cash.

Our requirements are as follows: Letters must be written to the editor, not the public. They must be signed with full name in ink. Signature will be printed on all letters. Letters must include an address and phone number, which will be used for verification, but will not be published. Emailed letters will be accepted but the above information must be included.

We ask that letters be limited to 400 words. Letters longer than 400 words may be edited for brevity. Writers may be limited to one published letter per month. Readers with lengthy comments should contact an editor about possible guest columns. Send letters to: The Mail-Journal, P. O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542 or dpatterson@the-papers.com.

Koselke

in critical condition after motorcycle crash

Denny Koselke, 54, Syracuse, was listed in stable but critical condition following a motorcycle/truck crash on SR 13 at Executive Drive, south of Syracuse. The crash occurred at 6:09 p.m. Friday, May 10. Koselke was flown to Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne. A helicopter landing zone was set up by Turkey Creek Fire Territory at Wawasee Middle School.

The extent of his injuries were not released.

Creek Fire Territory,

MATTHEW SCOTT HALL

Matthew Scott Hall was arrested for allegedly resisting police officers. Hall, 53, 9635 N. Miami Lane, Cromwell, is charged with resisting law enforcement, a level 6 felony. On April 13, a North Webster Police officer responded to a domestic complaint. Upon arrival at the scene, the officer saw Hall sitting in a vehicle. According to court documents, as the officer began driving toward the vehicle, Hall began driving toward the officer. When the officer activated his

emergency lights to show Hall he wanted him to stop, Hall allegedly looked directly at the officer and shook his head no.

The officer began following Hall for about six minutes with his emergency lights still activated. During the pursuit, Hall continuously drove laps around the neighborhood, leaving the roadway multiple times and disregarding stop signs. A Syracuse Police officer joined the pursuit, and Hall nearly hit the Syracuse police vehicle head-on.

Hall eventually turned into a driveway after losing the rear left tire on his vehicle. He refused to comply with officers’ verbal commands, but eventually exited his vehicle.

Hall has already been arrested and released on his own recognizance.

Syracuse Public Library — SPL’s ‘In the Garden’ group to plant Becky’s Garden

Everyone is invited to help Syracuse Public Library’s nature group — In the Garden — plant Becky’s Garden at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 23, in the Community Roots outdoor space. This garden will honor long-time Syracuse Public Library librarian Becky Brower, who died in June 2023. Brower had been passionate about native plants and pollinators, and the garden will continue her mission by spreading an appreciation for the natural world. The garden will feature educational signage about each native plant in the garden and the pollinators it supports. The group has been seeking specific native plant donations for the garden, and a list of plants is available on the Becky’s Garden web page, syracuse.lib. in.us/beckys-garden.html. If interested in donating a plant from the list, email Sarah Wright at swright@syracuse.lib.in.us. She is coordinating donations to ensure as many people’s plant donations can be added into the garden as possible. Plant donors will be contacted by May 20 with the plants they should bring.

Shari Wagner Writing Workshop Syracuse Public Library will welcome former Indiana Poet Laureate Shari Wagner for a special writing workshop at 1

p.m. Friday, May 24, in the downstairs meeting room. “Poetry as Memoir: Exploring the Terrain” will offer workshop participants insights into exploring memories with the tools of the poet. This writing workshop is made possible through a grant from the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana Authors Awards, powered by Indiana Humanities.

Refreshments will be provided during this 1-1/2 hour long program. Knit and Crochet Club Fiber artists can bring their current projects to the Knit and Crochet Club at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 21, in the upstairs sitting area. Those looking to learn how to knit or crochet can also attend and receive guidance from seasoned knitters and crocheters. Teen Café Teens can relax during the teen café from 3:30-5:30 p.m. Monday, May 20, in the Rosalyn Jones Room. In addition to snacks, there will be games, coloring pages and more available for teens to enjoy.

Memorial Day Closure

Syracuse Public Library will close Monday, May 27, in observance of Memorial Day. While the library is closed, patrons can use SPL’s resources — Libby and Hoopla — to check out digital materials.

May 6 — Jamie Ray Hurley, 47, no address listed, Syracuse, booked for invasion of privacy, possession of marijuana, refusal to identify, resisting law enforcement and failure to return to lawful detention. No bond listed.

Noble County

The following person was booked in the Noble County Jail: May 3 — Mark K. Cannon, 50, 3757 N. 900W, Lot 159, Cromwell, booked for possession of methamphetamine and possession of paraphernalia. Bond: $5,000 cash.

Jack Wright, 65, Leesburg, driver of the truck, was treated at the scene by Turkey Creek Fire Territory Paramedics. According to the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, when emergency personnel arrived at the scene, they found Koselke had been thrown from his Harley Davidson motorcycle after it collided with Wrights 2023 Dodge Ram.

A preliminary investigation determined Koselke was southbound on SR 13 on his 2012 Harley Davidson, approaching Executive Drive. Wright, who was on Executive Drive, proceeded to turn his Dodge

DELICATE AND INTRICATE EXTRICATION Firefighters trained in tactical rescue were called to Maple Leaf Farms Feed Mill Wednesday, May 8, to extricate a man trapped in an auger. Firefighters from Warsaw-Wayne Fire territory, Elkhart, Goshen and Clay Township in South Bend responded for the delicate and intricate extrication

Accident at Maple Leaf was a delicate and intricate extrication

The extrication of a man from an auger at Maple Leaf Farms Feed Mill required specifically trained firefighters in a delicate and intricate task Wednesday morning, May 8. The man, reported to be in his 20s, had his left leg caught in the auger up to the groin.

Tactical rescue equipment was needed to free the man’s foot and leg from a sweep auger at the bottom of an empty grain bin. Firefighters trained in tactical rescue from Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory, Elkhart, Goshen and Clay Township in South Bend, responded. Milford Assistant Fire Chief Todd Haines stated firefighters from Milford and Turkey Creek Fire Territory do not have the training, nor the equipment for such a rescue.

Milford Fire Department received the call at approximately 8:41 a.m. of a man with a leg caught in an auger. Turkey Creek Fire Territory was called shortly after the initial call. WWFT was requested at 8:56 a.m. According to Haines, the man, who had started work at the facil-

ity 8 days prior, appeared to have been using the sweep auger to clean the floor of the bin of debris. He then used a broom to continue sweeping when he accidentally stepped into the sweep auger. The sweep auger is connected to the main auger at the bottom of the bin. The man’s boot bound up the auger, shutting down the equipment. It is unknown how long he had been trapped before help was called.

Haines explained that the grain bins are set up with tunnels underneath. Rescue workers had to enter the tunnel to get to the bottom side of the auger to free the man’s foot and leg.

It took rescuers 1 hour 40 minutes for the extrication. He was then flown by Lutheran Air to an area hospital.

“They all worked fantastic together, it wouldn’t have gotten done the way that it did. It would have been a different story,” stated Haines. He noted a surgical trauma doctor was en route to the scene, but was not needed.

Haines stated the employee was the only person in the bin at the time of the accident and no guard was on the auger.

SUBSCRIPTION:

POSTMASTERS:

Minor injuries in mini-bus/vehicle crash

Steven R. Jones, 63, Harrison Court, Syracuse, and his passenger, Larry Jones, 85, South Huntington Street, Syracuse, sustained minor injuries following a two-vehicle crash at CR 300E and CR 1050N, Friday, May 10.

The crash was reported at 10:37 a.m.

Steve Jones sustained minor bleeding to his head. Larry Jones complained of pain to the head. Both were taken to Goshen Hospital for treatment.

The Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office reports Carter L. Wallenbeck, 20, East CR 1250N, Syracuse, was westbound on CR 1050N in a 2011 Chevrolet Express bus registered to Wawasee Community Schools. He entered the intersection continuing westbound when the bus struck Jones’ southbound 2016 Toyota Prius in the driver’s side.

Wallenbeck stated he was unable to see the Jones’ vehicle before entering the intersection.

After impact the Jones vehicle continued southbound colliding the guy wires on an REMC utility pole.

Milford Fire Department used extrication tools to remove

Jones from the driver’s side of the vehicle.

Lutheran EMS and Turkey Creek Fire Territory transported both Jones to the hospital. Wallenbeck was not injured. Damage was estimated up to $100,000.

DRIVER EXTRICATED — Troy Haines uses Milford Fire Department’s spreaders to pry open the driver’s door of a 2016 Toyota Prius, to free the driver.

Council updated on county ARPA projects

County Administrator Marsha McSherry gave the Kosciusko County Council updates Thursday, May 9, on three projects the county is doing using American Rescue Plan Act Funds.

On the Justice Building renovation, she said by the end of the month they’ll be closing out phase 2 of the project. Phase 2 includes Superior I, juvenile courtroom, judges staff, lobby and hallways.

“It looks like we probably will stay on target for the timeframe as far as phase 2. All the carpeting is done. The painting is all done. They’re working on the three restrooms, laying tile down.

... ” she said.

Two staff members have been able to move back to their office.

Court Appointed Special Advocates will have their panels reinstalled and furniture next Tuesday, so McSherry hopes CASA will be able to move back into their space by the end of next week.

The second project is the new fire alarm system in the courthouse. It will mimic the Justice Building fire alarm system that was installed last year with ARPA funds.

“This will be an audible system, unlike we’ve had in the courthouse before. We’ve always had to resort to the air horns, someone standing in the hallway, relying on weather radios … ” McSherry said.

The third project, partially funded by ARPA dollars, is the Sidney tower site, a public safety communications project. It is the last of four towers to go up.

It is hoped the tower project will be wrapped up by the middle of June.

Going through its regular meeting agenda Thursday, the county council basically approved everything they heard about at their informational meeting on May 2.

They approved:

• A request by Community Corrections Director Barry Andrew

for a $27,000 additional appropriation out of the Community Corrections user fees fund. The funds will purchase three tasers and four body cameras.

• County Assessor Gail Chapman’s request for an additional appropriation of up to $36,000 out of the assessor education and sales disclosure fund for the purchase of a vehicle.

• County Health Administrator Bob Weaver’s requests for an additional appropriation of $22,402 from Health First Indiana for employee Social Security/Medicare; a $162,094 additional appropriation from HFI for part-time payroll; and four transfers in the HFI fund for $31,674, from part-time payroll HFI to part-time pool inspector; $30,564, from part-time payroll HFI to full-time HFI administrative secretary; $4,523 from parttime payroll HFI to insurance for full-time HFI administrative secretary; and $3,180 from parttime payroll HFI to retirement for full-time HFI administrative secretary.

There were also two salary ordinance amendments — one for an annual $40,872 salary for an HFI secretary full-time and the other for $29.72 hourly for an HFI part-time pool inspector.

• Emergency Management Agency Director Kip Shuter’s request for a $20,304 additional appropriation from the Multi-Hazard Mitigation Grant. The match for the grant will come from the salaries from the community stakeholders who will be a part of the planning process to get the plan together.

• Shuter’s request to apply for a $149,481 grant from the State Homeland Security Program for 12 security cameras to be placed around the exterior of the courthouse and the courthouse square where there are none now. They will tie into the county’s current system. There is no match to the reimburseable grant.

He said they applied for the grant last year but got denied, as

did about 90% of those who applied.

• County Administrator Marsha McSherry’s request for three transfers of $6,000 each from maintenance building and equipment repairs, light bulbs and ballasts and repair parts/labor to maintenance of grounds.

• County Auditor Rhonda Helser’s request on the sheriff’s office behalf a vehicle replacement insurance reimbursement for $19,881.68.

• The wage committee recommendations as Human Resource Director Cathy Reed presented them, along with the salary ordinance amendments that go along with those recommendations. For the sheriff’s office, a captain’s position will be changed to a deputy and a sergeant deputy will be changed to a training/special operations lieutenant. Reed said no extra money will be required for the changes. The annual salary for the deputy position, previously a captain position, will be $60,428. The annual salary for the training/special operations lieutenant will be $71,537. For the Title IV-D office, a case manager team lead will change to caseworker. The annual salary will be $39,910.

The County Council also reheard the first quarter report for 2024 for Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation from interim co-CEO Suzie Light. As part of her report, she said KEDCO’s new CEO — Margaret “Peggy” Friday — will be coming onboard June 10.

“We’re really excited about the skills that Peggy is bringing to the table,” Light said. “... I wish I had realized 15 years ago how critical economic development is to our community, and looking at what do we want our community to be in 50 years. The decisions that you make today impact our community for 50 years, and the growth that we’re going to experience and we will experience it. We’re going to grow or we’re going to die.”

Take a look around your community and you’ll see the difference Parkview co-workers make every day — providing care within the walls of our facilities, on-site in the neighborhoods we serve and through partnerships with organizations that share in our mission. We believe great healthcare can strengthen communities. And that’s why every person at Parkview, no matter their role, is helping lead our region to better health.

Lady Warriors clinch share of second place

Rain and muddy conditions would not keep Wawasee softball from playing Goshen Monday, May 13, with placement in the Northern Lakes Conference at stake.

Host Wawasee overcame an early 2-0 deficit and went on to win 8-3. The victory earned Wawasee at least a share of second place in the NLC with two games to go to win second place outright.

“It would be awesome,” coach Chloe McRobbie said on earning second place. “In the recent past the highest we’ve been is third in the conference. To get second that would be new since I’ve been here. Very exciting.”

McRobbie is in her sixth year coaching the Lady Warriors since taking over in the fall of 2018. Wawasee stands at 9-3 in NLC action behind the perfect 11-0 mark from Mishawaka. Northridge, Plymouth and NorthWood are all tied for third at 7-5.

The 2024 season has already been the most successful conference campaign for Wawasee since 2017, when Wawasee won the NLC and obtained its lone regional title in program history. Against Goshen, junior Evelyn Duncan hit her fourth home

run of the season. Senior Natalya Holder added a team-high two hits. Wawasee outhit Goshen 7-5. Senior Haylee Allen had 11 strikeouts from the circle, as she is well over 600 strikeouts for her career. The school record holder for career strikeouts signed with Bethel University in November. Friday, May 10, Allen, Holder and the rest of the senior class in Makayla Holder, Jaci Worrell and Brooke Catron, were honored before the game with Plymouth. Catron served as a manager due to injury this season and was given a chance to walk the bases after the senior ceremony.

“She was a starter sophomore and junior year. Catron got to do one last walk around the bases,” McRobbie said. “It was fun for the seniors, we had them all early in the lineup so they all had a lot of at bats.”

Host Wawasee would go on to run-rule Plymouth 10-0 in five innings. Allen allowed just one hit in the game and earned seven strikeouts. She also added a triple from the plate. Freshman Ashlynn Corn had a total of four RBIs in the win.

For the Warriors, the win over the Pilgrims was meaningful because Plymouth won the first meeting 9-8 on April 24. Since that loss, Wawasee has won seven straight in NLC play.

Wawasee tennis draws sectional host

Wawasee tennis learned Monday, May 13, about its sectional draw. The Lady Warriors have been paired with the Tigers of Warsaw, the sectional host. The semifinal match will take place at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, May 16. Tippecanoe Valley also drew a bye and will take on the winner of the lone match from Wednesday, May 15, in Columbia City vs. Whitko.

Wawasee was scheduled to play Whitko on Monday, May 13, but it was canceled due to weather.

Warsaw won the Northern Lakes Conference and also

earned first place in the the NLC girls tennis championships last week with the finals on Friday, May 10. Warsaw’s Addie Lind won the singles title and has gone undefeated against NLC competition.

Wawasee was seventh at the NLC championships but did score more points than Mishawaka who was eighth. Mishawaka is the lone win for Wawasee this season in NLC play back on April 30.

Should Wawasee upset Warsaw, it would advance to the sectional final at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 18. The Warriors will be looking for its first sectional in girls tennis since 2000.

“It was really exciting. We had dropped a game against Plymouth on the road. To be able to come back and shut them out. Have our first shutout of the season was really cool,” McRobbie said.

Wawasee earned a 6-3 win over Northridge on Wednesday, May 8. The Warriors scored the first three runs in the game and led 6-1 after five innings. Corn hit a home run and Duncan connected on two doubles. Allen also had a double while pitching all seven innings and earning 11 strikeouts.

The Warriors are 14-8 this season and will play at Concord at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 15, with a chance to clinch second place. Wawasee will visit Bremen Friday, May 17.

The Warriors will open sectional play at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 21, against the winner of East Noble and Lakeland at Fairfield High School. Wawasee will be searching for its first sectional title since the 2021 season.

Wawasee ladies add NLC track crowns

Wawasee girls track and field showed why they have multiple events with athletes capable of having a deep postseason run Wednesday, May 8, at the Northern Lakes Conference meet at Warsaw. The Lady Warriors won three events featuring both throwing events by senior Emma Yoder. The 4x800 relay team also claimed first with a team consisting of sophomore Mia Hodgson, freshman Addison Delagrange, junior Jasmine Hernandez and freshman Reese Beasley. The relay team kept their strong season going with a time of 10 minutes, 07.12 seconds. The Warrior quartet beat out the second place team from Plymouth by over two and half seconds. In the distance events, Wawasee scored more points through Hernandez and Hodgson. Hodgson was second in the 3200 meter run at a time of 11:49.36 as she ran a personal best in the event back last month. Hernandez was third in the 800 with a time of 2:24.49. Beasley

was 10th in the event.

Yoder, a future Indiana State Sycamore, blasted the field in discus with a meet record of 142 feet, 5 inches. She cruised to first by over 20’.

The shot put event was more competitive but it was Yoder still coming out on top with a distance of 36’6.25”. She won the event by over 1’5”.

Senior Brooklynn Gibson was third in discus and fourth in shot put.

Another high finish for the Wawasee was senior Kaydence Shepherd in long jump. Shepherd was third in the preliminaries but improved her distance to 16’5.75” in the finals for second overall. Shepherd was less than an inch away from tying for first place.

Senior Chloe Linder was seventh in the event. Shepherd had a top 10 finish in the 100 meter dash with a time of 13.31 for eighth.

Junior Addison Powell finished third in the 400 at a time of 1:02.06.

The Lady Warriors were tied for third in the NLC meet with 92 points. Plymouth also had 92 points with Concord (98.5) and

Three automatically advance for Wawasee

Senior Kaydence Shepherd was second in long jump for a mark of 16’2.25” to punch her ticket to regionals. Shepherd was also second in the NLC meet on Wednesday, May 15.

Sophomore Mia Hodgson is the third Warrior to place in the top three to advance as she was second

from the Northern Lakes Conference meet in discus with a distance of 143 feet, 2 inches, for first place. Yoder won the event by almost 15’ and was also fourth in shot put to give a chance at moving to regionals in that event as well.

Maxwelton Ladies League results

The Maxwelton Ladies League returned this month with a game of Fairway Dots on Wednesday, May 1. Esther Keller was first and Clare Baumgardt second. Keller was also the low putts winner and shared the chip-in award with Baumgardt and Norine Troeger. Wednesday, May 8, featured a game of Most Sixes with Kathy Baumbaugh taking first. Baumgardt, Troeger, Robin Barney and Theresa Gunden tied for second. Barney and Connie Stillson tied for the low-putts award.

in the 3200 at a time of 11 minutes, 45.75 seconds. Her time was roughly four second improvement from the NLC meet.

As a team, Wawasee was fourth with a team score of 65 despite not running athletes in multiple events. Host Warsaw won the meet with a score of 150.5.

A few Warriors were close to the top three in their events to give them a chance at advancing to the Kokomo regional based on other sectional scores.

Junior Isabel Schwartz made an improvement from her seed time of 17.50 in the 100 meter hurdles to run a 16.42 for fourth place at the sectional meet. Schwartz was less than a tenth of second away from placing in the top three.

Junior Addison Powell was fourth in her event as well at 1:00.96 in the 400. Powell shaved off over a

second from her seed time and was less than second away from placing third an automatically advancing. Wawasee was competitive in all three relays with each one placing just outside of the top three.

The 4x800 relay team of Hodgson, Addison Delagrange, Jasmine Hernandez and Reese Beasley won the NLC meet but ran up against different teams Tuesday where Goshen and Warsaw ran their top runners. Wawasee was fourth Tuesday with a time of 10:16.38, over a second faster than last week.

The 4x400 relay team of Powell, Beasley, Schwartz and senior Chloe Linder was fourth at a time of 4:10.98. The Warrior quartet made almost a full 10 second improvement from their seed time.

The 4x100 relay team of Schwartz, Linder, Shepherd and America Benitez was a close fifth with a time of 51.12. They have an outside chance of advancing to the Kokomo regional meet set for 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 21.

Baseball

May 8 — Wawasee hosted Northridge and was defeated by the visitors 13-7. The Raiders put up five runs in the third and seven runs in the sixth inning to pull away. Senior Hunter Fiedeke was a perfect 3-3 from the plate with three runs. Senior Ryan Menzie scored a run with two hits on the day. Junior Reed Reidenbach had two hits and 1 RBI. May 10 — Wawasee fell to Plymouth 5-0 in a game it where Plymouth jumped to a 3-0 lead after two innings. The host Pilgrims outhit the Warriors 9-4. May 14 — The Warriors went on the road to the Redhawks of Goshen and lost 2-1 in eight innings. Senior Ryan Menzie pitched six and two thirds innings and also had the lone RBI for Wawasee in the game. Junior Kane Dukes

Turn Around Achievement Award recipients honored

During the regular monthly Wawasee School board meeting, held Tuesday, May 14, school administrators awarded several students their Turn Around Achievement Awards. The Turn Around Achievement Award recognizes one student from each school in fifth, eighth and 12th grade, who has made positive choices about his or her educational future. The schools’ principal and staff members select the deserving student. The turnaround can occur in behavior, attitude, attendance or academics. After the winners were presented a certificate and a gift card to Joe’s Ice Cream, the winners went down the line and shook each board member’s hand and received more congratulations.

Milford Elementary School: Fabian Sanchez

“I would like to introduce Fabian Sanchez. He has done a great job this year. When I first took over, he has been in the building I have been in, and not only has he grown academically, but he also tries hard and does his best communicating what he is feeling and what he thinks on things. It has been really cool to see his teachers, supporters and his family is here as well. We just wanted to say one of the biggest things we love about Fabian is when he smiles, it lights up a room! When I presented the award in class, he had the biggest smile on his face and all his classmates were so excited for him,” Principal Michael Casey illustrated.

North Webster Elementary School: Jackson Meck

“It is an honor to introduce this gentleman, Jackson Meck, as the Turn Around recipient for North Webster Elementary School. It was not so many years ago that Jackson had found school to be overwhelming at times and being at school was hard. Now, he is in fifth grade and he is such a big contributor in class. He is very knowledgeable, he is very interested in sharing what he knows and he is actively participating. Not only

is he an academic contributor in class, but he is also such a caring and empathetic member of his classroom. He is always caring about other students, wanting them to be successful and caring for them when they are having a problem. Mr. Jackson has come such a long way in the time that I have known him and I am just so proud of you!” Principal Lee Snider proclaimed.

Syracuse Elementary School: Olivia Haradon

“I am honored to be here. I have looked for our recipient, we phoned home today but unfortunately it appears she could not attend tonight. She does like to fly under the radar. Olivia Haradon has absolutely blossomed this year into an above average student. She is very talented and personable. She is very good at playing recess. We couldn’t be more proud of her at Syracuse Elementary. I will be sure to pass on your good regards,” Dr. Tom Edington, former superintendent of Wawasee Schools and current interim principal explained.

Wawasee Middle School:

Mathias Gibson

“It is my pleasure to introduce our Turn Award winner, Mathias Gibson. Mathias came to us in the sixth grade from North Webster. I would say, the first year or year and a half, Mathias struggled a little bit with relationships with other students and sometimes relationships with teachers. He did not always want to be in school. I would say it’s probably not his favorite place to be and I’m sure it’s still not his favorite place to be. But, he has come such a long way since the time he entered middle school and where he is now. I had multiple, multiple teachers that have commented on him throughout the year. They’re saying, ‘who is this Mathias Gibson?’, ‘where is the kid we saw in sixth grade?’ He is working hard. He is treating other people with respect. He is doing all the things he needs to be doing. I had a teacher comment just the other day how he is stepping up to the plate in class and helping other students, even when he’s not asked to do so. I look forward to see what

you do at the high school. I know you are going to continue down this path and be super successful,” Principal Brent Berkeypile remarked.

Wawasee High School: Brooke Catron

“Typically when I stand before you this time of year, I am talking about a student who for the first couple years were in and out of discipline or wasn’t earning credits early on due to maybe poor choices or behaviors. But, this year is a completely different story. For that reason, I have asked Mrs. Puckett to be here,” Principal Geoff Walmer mentioned.

“I met Brooke freshman year and she started freshman year very different than most freshmen students. She was pregnant with her son, Levi. My first interaction with Brooke was with her and her dad, talking about how she was going to be successful at school and what that was going to look like. Freshman year was very challenging. She took off as one of our first virtual students. After she had Levi, she went virtual for a semester but still a lot challenges with being a new mom. I remember a lot of conversations about being up all night, teething babies, sick babies but she still showed up for class in the morning. Things were coming together for Brooke. But then, the biggest support system for Brooke, her father, passed away her sophomore year. But Brooke is an amazing person, she continued on. She has been a two sport athlete, wrestling and softball, all throughout her high school career. This year she has been amazing, all As and one B+ right now. She completely turned around grades and has been such an outstanding person. She passed her CNA and going to be a nurse so she is continuing on in college. She has overcome so much through high school and has been an outstanding person to know. Congratulations!” Rebecca Puckett, guidance counselor, marveled.

“This is my favorite meeting of the year because of this award,” Don Bokhart, board president, beamed.

Shari Wagner to lead writing workshop at SPL

Syracuse Public Library will welcome former Indiana Poet Laureate Shari Wagner for a special writing workshop at 1 p.m. Friday, May 24, in the downstairs meeting room.

The workshop’s theme is “Poetry as Memoir: Exploring the Terrain.” Members of this writing workshop will discover surprising details and insights as they explore memory’s terrain with the tools of the poet. This session will suit people interested in writing poetry or memoirs.

Wagner served as Indiana’s fifth poet laureate from 20162017. She has authored three poetry books, which include “The Harmonist at Nightfall: Poems of Indiana,” “Evening Chore” and “The Farm Wife’s Almanac.” Her poems have appeared in North

American Review, Shenandoah, Black Warrior Review, Indiana Review and many other publications. She has also taught creative writing and memoir writing to people of all ages and backgrounds.

Syracuse Public Library received a grant from the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana Authors Awards, powered by Indiana Humanities, to present this workshop. During this hour-and-a-halflong program, Syracuse Public Library will provide snacks and other refreshments.

For information, contact adult services librarian Emilia Layne, elayne@syracuse.lib.in.us, or communications specialist Sarah Wright, swright@syracuse.lib. in.us.

WRITING WORKSHOP Shari

Wagner will lead “Poetry as Memoir: Exploring the Terrain” at 1 p.m. Friday, May 24, in the Syracuse Public Library’s downstairs meeting room. Photo by Rachel Greenberg.

IN NEW ROLE Matthew Shoemaker has been named associate product engineer for Chore-Time, according to Todd Martin, engineering manager for the CTB Inc. business unit. In his new position, he will design, develop and create innovative poultry components and equipment to meet customer expectations and business goals.

Shoemaker is a recent graduate of Trine University, Angola, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in design engineering technology. Throughout his time at Trine University, he completed multiple engineering related internships and held part-time positions in the Warsaw area.

A native of Leesburg, he still resides there.

L.I.T.E. hosts community event, ‘Lite The Nite’

L.I.T.E., or Living in Transition

Effectively, Inc., hosted a community event that highlighted various organizations and what resources it has to offer. At the event, the organizations also offered demonstrations, including a Narcan demonstration and drug awareness and overdose presentation. The event was held Saturday, May 11, at the Milford Methodist Meeting House, 210 W. Catherine St.

After the demonstrations, participants were able to enjoy live music, performed by John Rogers.

“I play a little bit of everything,” Rogers explained. “If you can hum it, I can play it.”

There was also a hot dog cart for guests to get a bite to eat before enjoying the various activities, like cornhole and PipNick the clown. For dessert, homemade ice cream was served.

L.I.T.E. was launched in 2019 to help create relationships inside the Kosciusko County Jail with those preparing to re-enter the community. It has been a pillar in the community ever since. L.I.T.E.’s mission statement is “providing the recovery community with positive connections and outcomes.” Event sponsors were Indiana Recovery Network, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Allendale Treatment and Fort Wayne Recovery. To find out more information about L.I.T.E., visit literecoveryhub.org/. To find L.I.T.E.’s local resource guide, visit literecoveryhub.org/resources.

Spring Antique Outboard

Motor Show May 18

The Antique Outboard Motor Club will host its spring Antique Outboard Motor Show and Swap Meet Saturday, May 18, at North Webster’s Community Park (Dixie tour boat dock) on the west shore of Webster Lake.

Several hundred antique outboard motor restorers, historians, collectors and enthusiasts from across the Midwest and Canada will gather in the park for a day of activities related to their hobby. The public is invited and encouraged to attend. No admission charge. The events include an exhibition of its recent restoration

Community Corner

Brock: from Redhawk to Warrior

“I have loved every moment of working for Goshen schools, it has just been so good to me,” Karen Brock explained. “I have learned such a good deal because of the teachers and students I have worked with.”

Brock has been a staple in local education systems for nearly twenty years. However, a new chapter is about to begin. Brock will serve as the new principal of Syracuse Elementary, replacing Eric Speicher, who took a position within the Tippecanoe Valley School Corporation.

Brock started her education career as a paraprofessional for Whitko Community Schools before transitioning into a Title One instructor for the Fairfield school system. She has also taught first, second and fifth grades for Goshen Community Schools. During her high school years, Brock served as a cadet teacher.

PROFILE

Brock is no stranger to education. She received her undergraduate and master’s degrees from Ball State University. She attained her principal’s license through Indiana Wesleyan University. She has started her doctorate through Indiana State University.

“Being the youngest of nine, I had a passion. I have two older sisters who are teachers and they taught me a great deal,” Brock explained. “They got me very involved in their classrooms. I would grade papers for them and put the stickers on. Education was something I always knew I wanted to do.”

“As a principal, it is a passion of mine to nurture teacher’s growth in their trade. No matter how good we are, we can always be better,” Brock mentioned. “Also getting to meet new staff, new students and new families is just so rejuvenating. I have felt so welcomed already!” Leaving Waterford Elementary was not an easy decision for Brock to make. She “blamed” the tough decision on the wonderful, passionate teachers and bright, incredible students she got to work with through the years of her career. She reminisced on a couple of her favorite moments, like when she was crowned and sashed as “Best Principal.”

Brock leaves Waterford with a heart full of memories and a mind set on leading Syracuse Elementary forward.

“I leave with tears in my eyes but I come with passion, I come with my heart on my sleeve and I come ready to face new challenges!”

Mobile Meals drivers

Volunteer drivers for Syracuse, Milford and North Webster Mobile Meals have been scheduled as follows:

Syracuse Drivers May 20-24

MONDAY — S. Gilbert TUESDAY — P. & L. Stump

and Mike DeLucenay of the

NorthWood

WEDNESDAY — D. & K. Matz

THURSDAY — C. Hill

FRIDAY — P. Smith Milford Drivers May 20-24

MONDAY — L. Kammerer

TUESDAY — K. Stanley

WEDNESDAY — J. & K. King

THURSDAY — M. Webb

FRIDAY — S. Weisser North Webster Drivers May 20-24

MONDAY — A. Renner

TUESDAY — B. & K. Turner

WEDNESDAY — D. Senger

THURSDAY — A. Renner

FRIDAY — A. Renner

NORTHWEST BANK DONATES TO NWCC Northwest Bank proudly announced its donation of $1,500 to the North Webster Community Center, reinforcing its dedication to local community support and growth. The donation, presented by Northwest Bank’s team members Gwen Fuchs, financial center manager; Josh Himelick, financial center banker; and Devin Schultis, area manager, was warmly received by Emily Shipley, executive director of the North Webster Community Center.

“We are thrilled to partner with the North Webster Community Center,” said Gwen Fuchs, financial center manager at Northwest Bank. “This donation underscores our commitment to enhancing the lives of community members.” The North Webster Community Center serves as a vital resource for educational, recreational and cultural activities within the North Webster area. Northwest Bank’s contribution will directly support the center’s efforts in providing essential services and programs to residents.

Pictured from left are Devin Schultis, area manager; Gwen Fuchs, financial center manager; Josh Himelick, financial center banker; and Emily Shipley, executive director of the North Webster Community Center. Photo provided.

Taps Across the Water

The annual tribute of Taps Across the Water is set for Sunday, May 26, for Lake Webster, Lake Wawasee, Syracuse and Papakeechie lakes. This event honors United States military personnel who died serving in the U.S. Armed Services. Trumpet players are distributed across the lakes and perform an echo cascading rendition of taps.

With a staggered start, taps is heard across the lakes for nearly four minutes from one side to the other. Participants and attendees share their experience as reverent, contemplative and memorable. Dr. Matt Murdock, an educator who resides in Indianapolis and North Webster, has assembled nearly 40 bugler and trumpet players for two programs, one in North Webster and one in Syracuse. Participating musicians include members of the community and surrounding areas, including veterans, community bands, high school students and music directors and professional musicians.

Murdock makes the point, “We are connected and inspired by Jari

Bridge Results

North Webster Bridge Group The North Webster Bridge Group met Tuesday, May 7, and Thursday, May 9, at the Senior Primelife Enrichment Center in the North Webster Community Center. Winners Tuesday were Ronnie Pierog, first, and Sam Salisbury, second. Thursday winners were Ronnie Pierog, first, and Jean Cowan, second.

Villanueva’s Taps Across America.

One of our goals is to bring awareness of the shortage of live trumpet players at military funerals. Jari retired from the U.S. Air Force, where he spent 23 years with the USAF Band in Washington, D.C.” Murdock goes on to say, “As educators, it is our responsibility to instill in our students, especially those in high school bands, a sense of obligation to our communities. They may not fully realize the services they provide, whether it’s boosting school spirit at athletic events or fostering community spirit by participating in festivals. This event presents the students an opportunity to promote this experience personally with the intent of continuing community service after graduation.” North Webster

A memorial service is planned for 6:15 p.m. at the Lake Webster Town Park. Participants and sponsors include the American Legion Post 253 and Dixie Sternwheeler. Following the service, musicians leave by pontoon for their designated locations around Lake Webster. Taps will be performed from piers at 6:30 p.m.

Following the Taps remembrance, a trumpet ensemble concert of patriotic music will be performed at 7 p.m. at the town park. The ensemble is composed of the trumpet players who sounded Taps during

the ceremony. At the completion of the concert, many of the performers will travel to Syracuse to participate in the Wawasee, Syracuse and Papakeechie lakes program. Syracuse Chautauqua-Wawasee, Syracuse American Legion Post 223 and approximately 40 trumpet players are collaborating for a Memorial Day weekend tribute on Lakes Wawasee, Syracuse and Papakeechie. The event starts with a trumpet ensemble concert of patriotic music from 8:10-8:40 p.m. Sunday, May 26, at the Oakwood Resort Inn gazebo. Then the 40 musicians move to their designated locations distributed strategically around the three lakes to play taps simultaneously at 9:09 p.m. “In addition to notifying the community, we alert the lakefront restaurants about the timing of the event and propose guests observe one minute of silence at 9:08 p.m.,” said Chautauqua organizer Mark Knecht. “One challenge we have every year is the wind which affects how sound travels. People anticipate and plan for this event. If the wind impacts their ability to hear, it’s disappointing.” Knowing pier locations can facilitate hearing taps, visit Chautauqua on Facebook or visit the website www.chqw.org which will provide an up-to-date map and list of pier locations.

Wawasee Fine Arts Festival

grows

and

Chautauqua-Wawasee is hosting the 10th annual Wawasee Fine Arts Festival at Oakwood on May 25, which features a diverse range of fine art, including pottery, watercolor, oil painting, jewelry and specialty art made from natural materials such as wood, glass or metal to create beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces. This year, the number of artists has grown to 35, ensuring there will be plenty to see in 2024. All art has been juried to ensure suitability for this event. We strive to provide “fine art” products from true artisans, so you’ll be sure to find that perfect treasure to take home. Many of the designs reflect a lake setting. New this year is a Plein Air “paint out” sponsored by the Northern Indiana Plein Air Artists Association. Plein Air is the act of painting outdoors; the concept of landscape portraiture by which the artist paints directly onto canvas at the location of the landscape. These will all be paintings of the Syracuse/Wawasee area and paintings made available for sale after awards are judged at 4 p.m.

The festival will take place outdoors (rain or shine) in a beautiful lakefront park setting at Oakwood Resort in Syracuse. Various activities, both recreational and artistic are available for children, so they encourage you to bring the whole family along to enjoy the

day as there will be something for everyone.

Food and drinks will be available from on-site vendors or you may visit Oakwood’s Pier & Back Porch Restaurant, J-N-B Smokers, a barbecue food truck, is available as well as popcorn and ice cream by Sprinkle Express to cool off. The festival is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 25. It is free to attend and offers free parking.

The festival is sponsored by the Oakwood Foundation Chautauqua-Wawasee, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides life enriching experiences in support of the four Chautauqua pillars: Arts, education, faith and recreation. To learn more, see chautauquawawasee.org or visit them on Facebook.

Pathways CTE holds ‘signing day’ ceremony for students

Text and Photos

Senior Pathways CTE Coop-

erative students from Wawasee High School enjoyed the second annual signing day, held Monday, May 13. Similar to an athletic signing day, Pathways students had the opportunity to be celebrated during an open house to share their academic achievements with family, teachers and friends.

Approximately 10 CTE students participated in Signing Day Monday night. Jon Everingham, CTE director, said the rest were busy working.

The program has grown significantly. Everingham said a decade ago, there were 150 students in the CTE program. So far 386 kids have signed up for next year and not all CTE programs are full yet.

“It’s really cool,” said Dr. Stephen Troyer, superintendent of Wawasee Community School Corporation, about the event. “It helps put our academic achievers and our post education students

at the same level as our athletes.

“We have some kids in these pathway programs doing really awesome things, whether it’s going onto school or into a career.

“These programs give these students the skills where they can go into a career immediately.”

One of those students is Landon McClintic who signed on to work at Pro Wake Watersports.

“I like turning wrenches. I like getting greasy,” he said.

McClintic was encouraged to take the marine mechanics class by a friend. He enjoyed the first year and signed up for the second. He said the class helped him stay motivated in his other classes.

During his second year in the class, McClintic was offered a chance to go to work, and he took it. He said he felt he had a good idea of what was expected of him. “This program is great for kids who may not be academically inclined, but good with their hands,” he said.

Mark Richards, owner of Pro Wake Watersports, is a big supporter of the program. “What’s

cool for me right now is these kids who are signing,” he said.

Richards spent several years coaching pee wee football and misses having a positive impact on a kid’s development. “It means a lot (to me) to be a part of kid, their development,” he said.

“This means the world for me.”

Richards hired McClintic and Landon Reynolds to work for him. McClintic asked about college. Richards told both Landons they would get more knowledge and certifications working for him than they would in college. “And I’m paying them to work for me, instead of them paying for college.”

“I’ve always supported his (Derick Fisher, marine mechanics instructor) kids,” Richards said. “These two Landons... rock stars, that’s why I hired them on permanently.

“I believe in what they’re (Wawasee School Corp.) doing and

Let Us Deliver The Paper To you

State Rep. Kubacki visit SPEC

10 YEARS AGO, MAY 14, 2014

20 YEARS AGO, MAY 12, 2004

in” pattern quilt. Quilts were shown by Barbara Halstrom.

North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce donated $500 to the Webster Lake Conservation Association’s fireworks fund, it was announced by chamber treasurer, Stacey Cox, Pletcher Insurance. She presided in the absence of President Sue Ward, Sue’s Creations. The busyness of the season made for low attendance at the monthly May meeting Monday at the American Legion Post 253. Senior Primelife Enrichment Center, North Webster, had two surprise guests May 6 at its May birthday party. Director Barb Hetrick explained, “SPEC was privileged to have the Indiana Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann and State Representative Rebecca Kubacki as our lunch guests last week. Larry Kinsey arranged the visit.”

50 YEARS AGO, MAY 15, 1974

Barbee Lakes property owners board of directors met in the North Webster Community Center with Dick Long presiding. Bill Keith was appointed to notify the owner of boats being illegally stored on wetland areas. Board members present for the meeting were: Keith, Morris Weyand, John Duncan, Dan Harris, Allan Young, Kenny Hill, Donald Hagan, Liz Mockus, Ron Miller, Jim Miller, Dan Bell, Bill Thompson, Long, Bob Trout, Lynn Stevens, Jack Sell, Jim Dewald and Jack Maule. Lakeland Quilt Club met at the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Community Building. Nancy Peterson presided during the business session. Winona Drake and Luara Greig served refreshments. It was noted Bev Voland has made a “log cab-

30 YEARS AGO, MAY 11, 1994

Tippecanoe Lake Country Club Ladies Bridge Club met May 4 to open its season. Hostesses for the day were the 1994 officers: Irma Sink, president; Joyce Peterson, vice president; JoAnn Mosbaigh, secretary; and Joan Guyton, treasurer. Irene Bucher, Shirley Bricker, Ruth Phillips, Esther Metzger, Jean Dungan and Louise Suntheimer won prizes.

Josh Gillenwater, Jason Salter,Sean Rhodes, Lindsey Davies, Kaylin Hall, Teresa Houser, Kristi Coverstone, Brandon Klinefelter, Michael Moore, Jerrad Hudson, Jenny Minear, Lindsey Klinger, Kim Likens, Douglas Nathaway, Ashley Whitesel, Sabrina Cunnington, Melissa Grubbs, Andy Minear, Jenna Rantz, Mike Klinger and Jessica Clevenger.

Citizens of the Month at North Webster School were announced. They are: Trisha Light, Fallon Judd, Tyler Ort, Nicole Radford,

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40 YEARS AGO, MAY 16, 1984

Jerrell W. Craig, 31, Lake Tippecanoe, was hired as a deputy marshal at the North Webster Town Board meeting. He replaces Michael Janacek, who resigned to return to his former place of

It happened in Milford ... 40 years ago

employment. Craig has spent the last three years as an army military police officer at Fort Ord, Calif. Prior to his three years at Fort Ord, Craig was an infantry instructor for seven years at Fort Benning, Ga. Sugar N’ Spice club members met at the home of Judy Wagoner. Denise Vanator was the assistant hostess. Becky Ertel noted a membership drive is planned for June with an open house at the home of Denise Vanator. Reports were given by: Linda Doll, minutes of the last meeting; Nancy Vanator, treasurer’s report; Janet Kiser, cultural arts and Janet Hollar, citizenship and voting.

Mrs. Frank Green was hostess for the May 8 meeting of North Webster Past Chiefs of the Pythian Sisters. Mrs. Harry Bause opened the meeting by reading a poem about greeting cards. Myrtle Greisinger, secretary, read the minutes of the April meeting. Mrs. Russell Moore will host the next meeting. Members of the Mary Circle of North Webster United Methodist Church met May 9. Plans were discussed for making noodles for the church’s annual chicken and noodle supper to be served at the Mermaid Festival. Mrs. Glen Goinsgave devotions.

Ann Heaton chosen as queen

10 YEARS AGO, MAY 14, 2014

$7.60

It seems the Wild West has a kind of mystic magnetism on some of the people of Milford. Some of you may recall we reported about the Orn brothers, a couple of Milford natives who have become softball sensations in Arizona, in February. The Mail-Journal Editor-in-Chief Jeri Seely, also a Milford native, recently spent time in Chandler, Ariz. The Mail-Journal publisher Ron Baumgartner is the latest local to heed the call of the desert. He and a few friends recently turned a trip to Arizona into a Grand Canyon adventure following the Kaibab Trail on foot for seven miles from the canyon rim down to Phantom Ranch on the Colorado River.

ONE COLUMN BOXED ADS

ford Town Council met Monday night and heard plans for a new 50,000-square-foot facility to be located just north of Royal Crown on Old SR 15. Goshen based Lippert Components is expected to be operational in October. It is estimated that 30 to 40 new jobs will be created over the next 12 to 18 months.

Ruch was appointed by the Van Buren Republican Precinct members Thursday evening to replace Dennis Wuthrich, Republican Ward 1 councilman, who resigned from the council in April.

mothers receiving geraniums, president Bernice Long presided over the business portion of the meeting. Ann Heaton was chosen queen at the meeting.

ANNOUNCEMENTS ....................A005-A100 BUSINESS SERVICE...................C010-C430 EMPLOYMENT.............................E010-E080 FARM ...........................................G010-G070 FINANCIAL ..................................H010-H030 INSTRUCTION .............................K010-K020

Last week, Milford Police Department Lieutenant Travis Marsh announced he would be running for Kosciusko County Sheriff. Marsh has served MPD for six years. He is also an adjunct faculty member instructing criminal justice classes at Ivy Tech Community College.

Sister Debra Ann Schafer, native of Milford, made her profession of religious vows as a Sister of St. Benedict in a ceremony at Monastery Immaculate Conception in Ferdinand, Saturday, May 8. Sister Debra, 35, is the daughter of Ann and Dr. Albert Gervas Schafer.

The Milford Junior High School golf team won its own invitational tournament at Big Boulder Golf Course Saturday. The tournament included entries from LaVille, West Noble and White. Paced by the co-medalist performances of Jason Haab and Travis Coy, the Milford White team won the invitational and set a new school record of 157 in the process. Haab and Coy both came through with low scores of 37.

40 YEARS AGO, MAY 16, 1984

Craig E. Trout, one-year-old son of Steven and Kimberly (Kelley) Group of Milford, celebrated his first birthday on Saturday, May 12. A party was held in his honor.

50 YEARS AGO, MAY 15, 1974

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Jim Bontrager, pastor of Milford United Methodist Church, has smiled a little bigger in recent days. A new elevator is in place for the handicapped and the elderly, making it much easier for them to access the church sanctuary.

20 YEARS AGO, MAY 12, 2004 A new manufacturing facility is coming to Milford. Mil-

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30 YEARS AGO, MAY 11, 1994

Douglas L. Ruch, 33, Catherine Street, Milford, was sworn in as a member of the Milford Town Council Monday evening during the council’s monthly meeting.

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It happened in Syracuse ... 30 years ago

Linda Perry, who will graduate from Ball State University on May 19, has been named as “Miss Milford” in the 1984 Mermaid Festival “Queen of the Lakes” contest. She is 21 and a psychology major. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. N. John Perry of Milford.

Thirty-seven were present for the May 13 carry-in dinner and business meeting of the Milford Senior Citizens. Following

The Milford Aces led by Pete Melendez won their second game of the season over the South Bend Aztecas 10-1. Melendez went three for four with three RBI’s and two home runs to lead the Aces hitting attack. He also led the Aces pitching with six innings of shut out ball before leaving the game with a sore arm. Dan Chamberlin and Gerald Cripe finished the game for Melendez.

Airman Timothy W. Sands, son of Mr. and Mrs. Paul V. Sands of r 2 Milford, has graduated at Kessler AFB, Miss., from the air training command’s basic course for electronic specialists. Airman Sands is a 1973 graduate of Wawasee high school, Syracuse.

Matz named Syracuse principal

10 YEARS AGO, MAY 14, 2014

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Girl Scout Leader Barb Grumme, Girl Scout Sophia Grumme and Girl Scout Aly Kirkpatrick, all of Troop No. 00148 presented the Syracuse Park Board with a check for $1,500 to purchase a swing for handicapped individuals to use. The girls requested approval from the park board to proceed with fundraising for the project, which the park board gave. The girls raised the necessary $1,500 by partnering with the Syracuse Lions Club in running a hot dog stand during the community wide garage sale; participating in the community wide garage sale and cookie sales, which raised 38% of the money.

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Department for his exemplary service in the interest of public safety. Harris operated the EMS service from 1952 until turned over to the fire department in 1974. Since that time the EMS service has gone from basic EMS, to advanced life support in 1991 and became a paramedic service in 2001. Harris and his group of volunteers operated the service with the use of station wagons and the funeral home hearse. Mickey Scott, fire chief, noted Harris gave the EMS a “good foothold on what we are doing now. If it wasn’t for guys like you, we wouldn’t be here today.”

20 YEARS AGO, MAY 12, 2004

“Your Contact for Buying or Selling”

Charlie Harris, Syracuse, was honored by the Syracuse Fire

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ic honor societies at Indiana University, Bloomington. Membership is attained by having at least a 3.5 or higher grade point average. Faculty recommendation is also required. Stucky, a freshman, is majoring in biochemistry at IU. He is the son of Curt and Doris Stucky, Syracuse. The Laudemans, Robert and June, have returned to their condo on Medusa Street on Syracuse Lake. The Laudeman’s spent six of the past winter months living in a condo, the Fountainhead, on Lake Jackson in Sebring, Fla. June spent 35 years as a firstgrade teacher and 15 years as a substitute teacher in local schools after she and her husband built a new home on North Shore Drive, Syracuse Lake, in 1972. June noted teaching was always the best kind of work for her.

30 YEARS AGO, MAY 11, 1994

David Matz, assistant principal at Milford Middle School, was appointed as new principal of Syracuse School during the regular meeting of the Wawasee School Corp. Board of Trustees. Matz has been with the corporation for 21 years.

Local Syracuse resident, Deb Mangas recently participated in a travel industry march on Washington which was co-hosted by

the American Society of Travel Agents and the Association of Retail Agents. This is ASTA’s annual initiative to inform and educate Capital Hill decision makers on travel and tourism issues.

40 YEARS AGO, MAY 16, 1984 Gaylord and Evelyn Jones arrived home Friday from Naples, Fla., home and will spend the summer months in a condominium in the Pine Terrace Apartments on State Road 13 south of Syracuse. Gaylord said they planted over 1200 apple trees on their farm north of Syracuse. Curt and Marilyn Curtis, of Syracuse, are making plans for their June trip to Hong Kong and China, all with his expectations. Curt won a trip for two to Hong Kong, where they will spend a week, then go to Peking, Xian and Shanghai.

50 YEARS AGO, MAY 15, 1974

Mr. and Mrs. Guy Stuckman of Lamar, Mo., are visiting in the home of their daughter, Mrs. Norman Robie, Mr. Robie and family in Syracuse and will be leaving Thursday to return to their home. Mr. and Mrs. Noble Fisher and Rex entertained Sunday, May 12, at a chicken barbecue. Among those attending were Mr. and Mrs. Dean Dowty and family of Syracuse.

Kosciusko County Redevelopment requests 2 additional members

The Kosciusko County Redevelopment Commission approved adding two members to the commission.

At the commission’s Thursday, May 9, meeting, members discussed adding two members to the commission. Commission

President Joni Truex, who attended virtually, said the commission needed to have a vote in the minutes to take the request to the Kosciusko County Commissioners and Kosciusko County Council for approval.

The commission members discussed they only have one-year terms and are expected to step down afterwards.

“I think we’ve all realized that there’s a fair amount to learn and understand on the redevelopment commission,” said Commission Member Jan Orban. “Losing one or two members could be a significant detriment to the entire development commission.”

Commission Vice President Doug Hanes proposed for a later date possibly staggering when the terms end and extending the terms to three years, if allowed by the code ordinance.

The commission voted and

approved the request on the minutes for an increase in membership. Four members will be appointed by the county commissioners and three by the county council.

The commission also heard an update from Crystal Welch from Abonmarche regarding the CR 1300N project update.

Welch reported they were looking at conceptual maps for future land use along CR 1300N based on county growth rate data from the last 20 years. The plan aims to look at including new commercial, residential and industrial use while preserving agricultural land areas.

The commission also heard an update from Kosciusko Economic Development Corp. Interim Co-CEO Suzie Light. Light reported that KEDCO’s new CEO, Peggy Friday, would be officially starting June 1.

“Peggy is highly talented. She comes with a lot of experience. She ran a chamber and has been doing economic development, specifically industrial development,” said Light. Light also shared KEDCO was no longer providing a marketplace for entrepreneurs at its office, but is still continuing services for entrepreneurs. She

shared they were offering their assistance to Plug and Play and had an entrepreneur coach that people can make appointments with.

“Good stuff happening and better stuff on the way,” said Light.

In other business, the commission:

• Approved an agreement with Baker Tilly for services. Swore in Commission Member Mike Metzger.

• Discussed an invoice for Turner Valentine LLC. for legal services.

• Voted to approve a name change for Strive Properties LLC, at 7456 W. Old Road 30, Warsaw. Strive Properties will own the property which will be managed by subsidiary Core Mechanical Services.

• Voted to approve $30,000 for an investment for Strive Properties.

• Discussed going over budgeting and spending, such as for legal services, after its next meeting. No formal decisions will be made until the September meeting.

The commission’s next meeting will be 1:30 p.m. Thursday, July 11, in the Kosciusko County Courthouse’s old courtroom.

TCLRSD approves three change orders, connection letter draft

The board of trustees of the Tippecanoe and Chapman Lakes Regional Sewer District had a full agenda at their regular monthly board meeting held Monday, May 13. During the meeting, the board approved three change orders. Contract A, Chapman Lakes Wastewater Collection System, requested a change order due to revisions to plans due to grinder station relocations from property owner meetings and gravity sewer lateral grade calculations to ensure that the property owner can connect to the grinder stations by gravity sewer; revisions to electric risers converting to remote-located; reconciliation of field-installed quantities and an extension of Milestone One from Wednesday, May 1, to Friday, May 31, due to continued utility delays. Selge Construction Company is the contractor for Contract A. The change in contract price is a decrease of $5,422.33.

Contract B, West Tippecanoe Lake Wastewater Collection System, requested a change order due to grinder station relocations from property owner meetings and gravity sewer lateral grade calculations to ensure that the property owner can connect the the grinder stations by gravity sewer; reconciliation of field-installed quantities and an extension of Milestone One from Sunday, April 28, to Friday, May 31, due to gas service provider delays. Niblock Excavating, Inc. is the contractor for Contract B. The change in contract price is an increase of $53,613.62.

Contract C, East Tippecanoe Lake Waste Water Collection System, requested a change order due to revisions to plans due to grinder station relocations from property owner meetings and gravity sewer lateral grade calculations to ensure that the property owner can connect to the grinder stations by gravity sewer. Selge Construction Company is the contractor for Contract C. The change in contract price is an increase of $9,069.91. Steve Henschen, head engineer on the project, informed the board of project process.

Contract A is about to cross the finish line with 99.5% of its total pipe and 100% of its total grinders installed. Contract B has 86.5% total pipe and 74.4%

MAPPING PROGRESS During the project reports, board

Jeff Thornburgh, middle, asked Steve

if the project was on track. Henschen reported that the project is on track. Also pictured is board member Kim Hathaway, Photo by Marissa Sweatland.

total grinders installed. Contract C has 48.6% total pipe and 7.5% total grinders installed.

“I know I ask you this every month, but are we on track?”

Jeff Thornburgh, board member, asked Henschen.

“I would say we are.”

Since Contract A is close to being completed, a tentative start up schedule was shared during the regular board meeting. Although Henschen did the stress the tentativeness of the dates, it didn’t stop the community members who attended the meeting from buzzing with excitement.

Tentatively, by Friday, June 14, NIPSCO would have energized all electric risers so that two weeks later, Friday, June 28, Selge can complete testing, start up all grinder stations and request substantial completion.

The board can then accept the substantial completion of project and enter into agreement for insurance coverage on Tuesday, July 9.

On Friday, July 12, the USDA will accept substantial completion and concur to allow customer connections while Astbury completes Indiana 811 requirements and begins locating responsibilities.

On Friday, July 19, Selge will complete all punch list items so that the district can send out notice to connect letters to Chapman Lake customers. By Friday, July 26, Gemini will send out new coupon books to Chapman Lake customers with first full payment due Sept. 1 for August 2024 service. After explaining the tentative start up schedule, Henschen and

Chicken tenders and popcorn are special treats at Quaker Haven Camp

In the early 1950s, 12 rustic brown log cabins were built at Quaker Haven Camp. Six of the cabins housed girls and six housed boys. Today, those same 12 cabins house girls and boys at the 137acre property located close to Syracuse. In front of the semicircle of cabins is a traditional campfire ring and behind each set of cabins is a large bathhouse. When campers arrive at their assigned cabins, they usually pull open the many large Florida-type wooden shutters to let in the air, make up their bunks with their pillows and sleeping bags and prepare to start a week of making some of their best memories.

Quaker Haven will celebrate its 100th year in 2025.

Over the summer, many children and adults experience the joy of this camp that is a “corner of creation” where all ages are free to relax and retreat in a natural environment. Elementary and junior high children are eligible for Beginning Camp, Pioneer Camp, Little Friends, Adventure Camp and Junior High Camp. Senior high students in grades 9-12 are eligible for Senior High Camps. Adults, ages 18-25, have their own camping opportunities in June, November and March.

Andrew Boxberger, legal counsel for the board, presented a rough draft of the customer connection letter.

Customers are required to have their properties connected within 180 days from receiving the connection letter, which is on or before Jan. 15.

An inspection is required for all connections when the old septic tank is abandoned. An inspection fee of $50 per inspection will be charged. A typical single-family home connection typically requires two inspections.

Additionally, all properties must be issued a permit before the properties may be connected to the system. The standard permit fee for a residential property is $250.

The board had very little feedback on the draft of the connection letter. A list of contractors is available on the district’s website as a convenience to the district’s customers. The list can be found at tippychapmanrsd.com.

The next regular of the Tippecanoe and Chapman Lakes Regional Sewer District will be held 6:30 p.m. Monday, June 10, at the North Webster Community Center, 301 N. Main St. Community members are welcome to attend the meeting in-person or via zoom with the meeting ID 244 811 872 and passcode 041891.

Brandon Dennis is celebrating his 30th year at camp and his 18th year as executive director. “Last year, my wife and I bought a house next to the camp. We love the location.” His duties range from guest services to human resources. “There are so many facets to my job.” After graduating from IUPUI with a degree in chemistry, Dennis started graduate school but left his Ph.D. program early to devote his efforts and his ministry to Quaker Haven.

“Camp changes kids’ lives. Youth camping is our primary ministry, our main focus for eight weeks in the summer. One of our simple traditions is popping popcorn in a huge iron kettle down by the lake. Another simple tradition is giving the kids ‘TAG’ time alone with God to sit outside in nature and be alone.”

After a huge buffet breakfast of pancakes, eggs, sausage and fruit and cereal at 8 a.m., the campers head out to chapel and then morning recreation activities. After noon lunch, campers disperse to their activities according to their age. Water sports on Dewart Lake, outdoor climbing tower and zipline and indoor sports in the large activity center, arts and crafts, hiking and various games are all available. Dinner starts at 5:30 p.m. and often includes camp favorites of chicken tenders and mac and cheese. “Everything is made from scratch. We have wonderful dinner rolls and pies,” said Dennis. “Our mission is to take care of people’s physical needs so they can focus on spiritual needs. Camp means the opportunity to escape the regular routine of life and live in a community where worship is a central part of the day,” said Dennis.

ON PROPOSED RATES AND CHARGES FOR THE TOWN OF MENTONE, INDIANA Property owners, rate payers and other interested parties in, served by or to be served by the Town of Mentone, Indiana are hereby notified that an ordinance amending Ordinances 10-414 (Amended

Syracuse-Wawasee

Historical

Museum opens with a new look

The weather was perfect just before Mother’s Day this past week for preparing the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum for a “soft opening.” With the help of Jamie Clemons, museum director, board member John Heckaman and his crew and board member Wes Hubbs and his moving personnel from North Webster, the temporary storage bins outside the Syracuse Community Center were emptied and returned to Stuckman’s. The move took all day, but the enthusiasm made the time spent totally worthwhile. The museum now has an open and airy feeling due to the new cream walls and blue carpeting. Cases are spaced in such a way as to allow viewing from both sides. New exhibits are going up as the season progresses. The gift shop at the museum features many interesting books on Wawasee and our community as well as maps, stationery and post cards.

Kristi Martin has joined the museum board and will be working

The Sanctuary of Syracuse

According to Medical News

Today, “research has found that shedding emotional tears releases oxytocin and endorphins. These chemicals make people feel good and may also ease both physical and emotional pain. In this way, crying can help reduce pain and promote a sense of well-being.”

Healthline states, “Crying may support both the body and mind by restoring emotional balance, dulling pain and activating your parasympathetic nervous system to help you self-soothe.”

Knowing the benefits of crying people will still be hesitant to let out a cry because of social stigmas or even pride.

You are not supposed to cry.

You are supposed to be strong. You are supposed to have it all together.

Nothing could be further from the truth when you are needing help. It’s okay for babies, but not for adults.

A B C D E F

Around The Lakes

H I J K M R V W X Y Z

Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. The museum is free and open to the public. Donations are always accepted and appreciated.

HISTORICAL INTEREST PICTURES Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum board members Kristi Martin, Peggy Genshaw and Patrick Appenzeller will eventually place pictures of historical interest on the wall at the museum. Photo by Mary Hursh. with board member Ross Heil to place our extensive collection of pictures on the walls so everyone can enjoy a look at history as well as present-day events of interest.

Church It’s okay to cry

The parent of a child knows the sound of their baby crying. They can hear the sound and know that it is their baby crying. A baby’s cry can signify many things. They are hungry, sleepy, sick, their diaper may be dirty or they just want to be held. There are even different types of cries that signify what they are feeling: ‘neh,’ hunger; ‘eh,’ burp; ‘eairh,’ gas; ‘heh,’ discomfort; or ‘owh,’ sleepiness. Have fun sounding those out as you read them!

Regardless of the why and how, there is the universal understanding that the cry means “I need help!”

God hears you and knows the sound you make. In the gospel of Mark, chapter 10, a particular man with a need heard that Jesus was passing by. He was known as blind Bartimaeus. He did what he had to do: cry out. In turn, he got the attention of

Jesus and his vision was restored. It was the cry that got the attention of the one who could fix the issue.

David, wrote in Psalm chapter five and verse two, “hearken unto the voice of my cry.” In Psalm 18 and verse six he states, “in my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears.”

God’s ears are tuned into the cries of His people. He hears your cry and knows your need.

Pride causes individuals to ignore the issues and reject the idea that an internal issue is going on. They have suppressed the cry and choose to continue in the dilemma. It’s okay to cry. Crying is going to be a bigger help than you realize. And when you cry, do it to a God that loves you unconditionally and desires to help you.

ORK HAS started at Henry Ward Park, located on Me dusa Street in Syracuse, on a brand new playground for the kids, as pictured above.

“FIRST OF all, I hope all you moms and grandmas had a wonderful and memorable Mother’s Day,” said Nancy Gray of Senior Primelife Enrichment Center in North Webster.

“Last week, I mentioned that we were thinking about raising the euchre prize amounts. Here is what we came up with. First place will go up to $20. Second prize will go up to $15. We are adding a third place: it will be $10. Most loaners prize will go up to $10 and low man will stay the same, $2. Be sure to call in so we can set up enough tables. The next euchre tournament will be May 16.

“Be sure to call in for the casino trip; it is May 20. We need to get you on the manifest by May 17. Call (574) 834-1600 ext. 224.”

THE TOWN of Syracuse has issued a friendly reminder from Code Enforcement Officer Scott Aites. Effective May 1, Ordinance 06-06 (Tall Grass/Brush) went into effect. Grass higher than nine inches must be mowed to avoid fines and/or penalties.

MIKE KISSINGER found this treasure, an old poster, as seen above. He had it framed and donated it to the North Webster Chamber of Commerce. It will be on display at the Visitor’s Center, located inside the North Webster Community Center.

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MILFORD FOOD Bank will be holding a “Food Truck Fun” one mile race at 7 p.m. Friday, June 21. It will begin at the food bank, 111 S. James St., Milford. Preregistration is $20, while day-of-race registration will be $25. Preregistered runners will receive a T-shirt. Each runner also will get a goody bag.

There will be finisher awards as well as overall and division awards. The race will be chip timed by RCC Timing. A registration form is available on Milford Food Bank’s Facebook page. One can also be requested by emailing Brian Shepherd at shepherdb@ westnoble.k12.in.us.

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ON MEMORIAL Day, May 27, a big celebration will be at the North Webster Community Center, with a parade and cook out. The Legion is sponsoring the event, which will include a Memorial Day ceremony and cook out afterwards.

CHAUTAUQUA-WAWASEE’S annual fine arts festival is set for Saturday, May 25. New this year will be the Chautauqua Plain Air Paint Out which will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Check in will begin at 7:30 a.m. with painters relocating to the festival location by 10 a.m. Paintings to be judged should be dropped off at 3:30 p.m. with awards presented at 4:30 p.m.

There is still time to register to participate. Visit northernindianapleinair.org. Registration is $15 for members or $20 for non members.

Additionally please note that the Chautauqua Introduction to Plein Air Workshop, which is scheduled from 9 a.m to 4 p.m., is not at the WACF Education Center and Tri County Fish and Wildlife Area, as was printed in last week’s calendar section of this paper. It begins at Oakwood each day and will paint at different locations around Lake Wawasee and Syracuse Lake. The workshop will take place May 29-31. For more information, go to chautauquawawasee.org/calendar-of-events/

IN PREPARATION for

MOVE WAWASEE has announced the dates for its first summer session. Classes will take place at 7 p.m. Mondays, June 3, 10, 17 and 24, and July 1. The classes meet at Wawasee Bible Church, 2035 E. 1300N, Milford. All abilities are welcome, and modifications are available for differently-abled bodies. The sessions are free, but donations are welcome.

HERE’S ANOTHER correction from last week’s calendar section, it was listed that the Chautauqua-Wawasee TAPS Across the Water event was listed on Saturday, May 25. It should have been listed as taking place on Sunday, May 26. All other details were correct. We apologize for the error.

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HARVEST COFFEE, 207 N. Higbee St., Milford, will host its annual Scholarship Plant Sale from 8 a.m. to noon this Saturday, May 18. Vegetable plants and flowers will be available for a donation.

All proceeds benefit the Harvest Coffee Agricultural Scholarship for a Wawasee graduate who was involved in 4-H, FFA, or agriculture classes. This year’s recipient will receive $500. The plants are started and grown by the Wawasee HS FFA and horticulture classes under the direction of Brianna Bartman. —o—

WEE WARRIORS home daycare 2 in Syracuse is officially licensed and ready for kids. They are enrolling children newborn to 3 years old, and are open 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday Daycare vouchers are accepted.

“This is our second home daycare,” said director Leticia Howell. “Wee Warriors Academy is our preschool center for ages 3 and up.”

Call (260) 215-1163 or email howell1129@ yahoo.com for more information or to set up a tour.

THE NORTH Webster American Legion’s Karaoke for a Cause will be May 24, with funds raised going to purchasing flags for veterans’ grave sites. The last event raised $500 for flags.

Dean Glancy, a Post 253 employee, was named MVP of the Legion. A former SAL commander, also volunteers as part of SAL and the Honor Guard and “makes the best fish around.” AND FINALLY, check out this cute picture of a mother swan and her cygnets. It was shared by Annette Ellis on the Waubee Lake Association’s Facebook page.