The Mail-Journal - May 29, 2024

Milford Food Bank kicks off capital campaign for new building

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Leaders from the Milford Food Bank officially unveiled their plans on Wednesday, May 22, to raise $1 million to build a new warehouse and offices. The proposed 12,000 square-foot building will be located on East Emeline Street in Milford, just east of the railroad tracks. The new building will be directly across the street from the facility currently being used by the food bank. Additionally, the food bank stores much of its inventory in unused warehouse space at The Papers Inc., through the donation of Publisher Ron Baumgartner. The press conference began with Milford Food Bank’s board president, Joe Shetler.

“We’re all so excited to kick off a fundraiser, celebration, whatever you want to call it, for a new distribution center for Milford Food Bank, and that’s going to happen right behind us. A lot of people are are really excited about this, including all the volunteers here, all the board members, the building and planning department down in Warsaw. I think our town council, Milford’s excited about it.”

“We’re just here to celebrate what God has been doing,” add-

ed Regg Beer. “Our verse here, it’s on our sign, this is a verse that our founder, Bill Troup, really established the mission on. It said, ‘For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me. (Matthew 25:35)’ This verse really speaks to the purpose of the food bank.”

Also speaking was Milford Town Council President Doug Ruch, who was introduced by Shetler as “a great supporter of what we’re doing here.”

“It’s a pretty dedicated group here,” said Ruch. “I just want to lend a hand of support to any and all of those who have helped make this a dream come true. The fact that they can take food that otherwise would be (thrown away) and help people, revitalize people, that’s what it’s all about.”

Tony Ciriello, member of the Kosciusko County Council, spoke on behalf of State Sen. Ryan Mishler, who could not attend the event.

“I know Ryan is very supportive of Milford and what they do,” said Ciriello. “On behalf of him, I want to say congratulations, Joe, and the board, on what you guys are doing. This is a tremendous effort to provide food to the people who need it in this community and the surrounding communities, and I can guarantee you help in any way, shape or form we can.”

Finally, Bill Doege, director of operations for Milford Food Bank, addressed the audience.

“I just want to say thank you to everyone who came out today,” Doege said. “I just appreciate you supporting us through this whole growth process. The people who we touch every day are remarkable. We couldn’t do it with out him in the forefront. I tell people, I’m just the hands and feet. I’m just out there collecting the stuff and answering the phone calls. Just doing the work that he called me to do years ago.”

Doege went on to say that Milford Food Bank is support-

ing 183 food partners, including pantries, men’s and women’s recovery homes and food kitchens.

“We’re touching many lives through all kinds of different points of their lives with our food that goes through this building every day,” he said.

“Every month, we’re giving out right over 400,000 pounds of food through this tiny, little building and our gracious warehouse building that Ron lets us use over here at The Papers Incorporated. Ron is a huge asset to us. I want to make sure that I give him kudos. What he

does makes this all work. Without that building over there, we couldn’t store the 7,000 square foot of food that’s sitting over there right now.

“It’s just amazing to see how this has all started from five pantries… Where we’ve taken it from that point to now, it opens my eyes everyday when I see people over here excavating, tearing the house down, doing all this work here, and they do it free. Right now, we really haven’t spent a dime over here. The community has supported

Local towns celebrate and commemorate Memorial Day

Milford, Syracuse and North Webster all sponsored Memorial Day parades followed by memorial services in their municipal cemeteries Monday, May 27. Milford

A light mist and cool tempera-

tures did not keep Milford residents away from a parade. Folks turned out early to find the best spot to watch the annual Memorial Day parade as it went by earlier Monday, May 27. The parade, lead by a color guard from American Legion Post 226, stopped at Milford Town Hall for a brief ceremony, which in-

Milford Lions

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Milford Fire Station, where the town’s volunteer firefighters were busy grilling their always-popular ribeye steak sandwiches. The line was down the block when they started serving at 11 a.m. Those who came late might have walked away disappointed, as the fundraiser sold

out, as usual. The annual crowning of the senior queen and king started a full day of activities on the Lions Club stage, which this year was set up on Main Street south of Emeline Street. Margaret and Dean Cousins were this year’s royal couple, receiving their crowns from Lion Brenda

Bethel. The couple grew up in Niles, Mich., but moved to Milford in 1971, where Dean was a farmer and Margaret taught in Wawasee schools for many years. Some interesting facts were shared about the royal couple. Dean’s big hobby was model trains. He eventually built a 16foot by 32-foot building just for his collection and display. He also does woodworking, making cabinets, shelves and other things for places including the Milford library and school.

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cluded a gun volley and the playing of taps by David Stump.

The candy flew to delighted children as emergency vehicles from several agencies, town departments and various organizations traveled the parade route. One very special little girl even received balloons as a member of the Milford Fire Department hopped out of his firetruck to present them.

After the parade, a good crowd traveled to Milford Cemetery as American Legion Post 226 hosted Memorial Day observances. Gary Hurd, Todd Haines as well as members of Wawasee Community Bible Church, put in several hours maintaining the cemetery so it looked nice for Memorial Day.

Stephen Wilson, chaplain of Post 226 and pastor of the Christian Church of Milford, was the featured speaker.

“We do parades, we do honors, we shot guns, we play taps,” he said about honoring those who are remembered on Memorial Day. “It is the solemnity that we bring to this that makes it memorable.”

He suggested the best way to honor those who fought and died for our country’s freedoms was to live that freedom.

“It’s an election year, and it’s so easy to forget what brings us together as Americans,” Wilson told the crowd. “Remember those who served by simply being decent to those you disagree with.”

Margaret loves sewing and gardening, having made 250 wedding dresses in her sewing resume. She also served on the library board for 20 years.

Both Dean and Margaret served as 4-H leaders for many years. A shared hobby was scuba diving. They made almost 300 dives together, including in their favorite location, Cayman Brac. Following the coronation of Dean and Margaret, a variety of live entertainers took to the stage, starting with local resi-

Syracuse With lights flashing and sirens blaring, the annual Memorial Day parade stepped off Monday afternoon, May 27. The parade stopped briefly at Veterans Memorial at Crosson Mill for a wreath tossing ceremony to honor those who died at sea while serving their county.

American Legion Post 223 Honor Guard followed the emergency vehicles, which represented Syracuse, Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office and other agencies. There were a number of floats including one featuring Cub Scout Troop 3828 and Syracuse Elementary School’s drum circle.

The parade traveled from Medusa Street up SR 13 onto Main Street and then to Syracuse Cemetery, where Memorial Day observances were held. Many lined the streets for the parade, despite the weather resembling more fall than the unofficial start of summer, as throughout the parade, there were gray skies and drizzle.

The skies did brighten and the drizzle stopped as soon as everyone gathered in the cemetery to observe Memorial Day services.

“Remember our fallen comrades who gave all for our country,” said Carolyn Gunder, commander of American Legion Post 223, as she welcomed the crowd that had gathered. She introduced Marjorie Emerick, post adjutant and president of Post 223’s auxiliary, who offered the invocation.

dent, Adrienne Frailey. Those who followed throughout the day included John Gaut, Country with Q, The Spaniels Forever, Quentin Flagg and Big Daddy Dupree, who will perform until 8:30 p.m.

During this year’s Milford Lions Festival, members of the Friends of the Milford Library held its annual sale on the library lawn, offering books, music, movies and other materials. The proceeds benefitted the Friends, which in turn spends the money

“It’s a tough day to be here, but there are tougher days,” Park said as he began his remarks. “There was a reminder just the other day that this is just not about having a threeday weekend, this is not just about sales, this is just not about the opening of pools and lakes and piers. This is about remembering those who gave their life so we can have freedom preserved in our nation.

“As nations go, we are a young one. As nations go, we know our worth. How do we find the worth of this nation? We find the worth of the nation in the lives given to preserve it. How do you find your worth? Your worth can be found, likewise in the same lives that have been given.

“In the Gospel of John, chapter 15: ‘A greater love hath no man than this than to lay down his life for a friend.’ These flags that you see in the cemetery, that decorate the cemetery in May, represent the lives that have been given for your freedom. They represent lives that have been give for you.”

to support library projects. The east side of Main Street from Catherine Street to Fourth Street was lined with a variety of shiny automobiles. They were there for the cruise-in, sponsored by Kosciusko Masonic Lodge No. 418. Throughout the afternoon, B.A.J.A. offered free carnival rides for the kids. The rides were sponsored by local businesses. Also set up along the downtown streets were a variety of food and craft vendors.

volleys as Isaac Miller from Wawasee High School played taps.

North Webster

The rainy, cool weather on Memorial Day likely helped bring some people off the lake and on to the streets of North Webster for the annual holiday parade and ceremony at Webster Cemetery.

The parade was headed by members of the North Webster American Legion, who led holding the colors. It was followed by first responder vehicles from the North Webster Police Department, Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office and Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory and EMS. Also marching were members of North Webster Boy Scout Troop 726 and Cub Scouts Pack 3726, as well as the Wawasee Middle School Marching Band.

Following the brief parade, many people gathered at Webster Cemetery for a presentation by the American Legion. Commander Cat Bowers led the gathering in the Pledge of Allegiance before the WMS band played its rendition of the national anthem. After a prayer by the Legion’s chaplain, a wreath was presented and laid by Adjutant Kim Pulsipher and Sergeant-at-Arms Terry Snyder. Pulsipher also read the names of veterans from North Webster who gave their lives in service to their country.

For more information about the Milford Food Bank and how you can contribute to the building fund, you can contact Doege by email at milfordfoodbank@ gmail.com or by phone at (574) 354-8450. You can also visit milfordfoodbank.org or check out the Facebook page.

us, all these businesses, just people who want to come out and give us a hand. They come out and give us a hand because they know what we’re doing and they have a love for the Lord. … This lot wouldn’t look like this without them. It just makes me want to work harder. I just can’t wait until the new building is up so we can grow our numbers even more.”

“...Just remember those who died, but by sharing it with our children and our children’s children; it’s a freedom worth fighting for,” he said.

Wilson said a prayer and recited a roll call of the dead. There was then a firing party, which fired three volleys. Stump played taps and the Wawasee High School Marching Band closed out the service by playing the national anthem.

The honor guard was called to attention as the Wawasee High School Marching band performed the national anthem. Gunder and Emerick then placed a wreath to honor those who died while serving their country.

Pat Park, a retired naval officer and pastor of Wawasee Heights Baptist Church, was the featured speaker.

As a nation, ours is a short history, but it is a history that is surrounded by a global history. It wasn’t just soldiers, sailors and airman who gave their lives for us, but the son of the very creator, sustainer of all things, gave his live for you so that you could enjoy life here in these United States and enjoy eternal life with him, a savior and friend. It’s true, a  greater love hath no one than this that he lay down his life for his friend.”

The band performed “She’s a Grand Ole Flag.”

Chris Longenbaugh, vice commander-second district and service officer for the post, read the roll call of the dead in Syracuse Cemetery and cemeteries in the area.

Emerick gave the benediction, the firing party fired three

Russ Chandler offered a stirring rendition of “Proud to be an American.” To conclude the ceremony, members of the American Legion Guard performed a 21gun salute prior to the playing of taps.

Bowers dismissed the crowd, inviting everyone to the North Webster Community Center for a free picnic lunch, which included hot dogs, chips, baked beans, cake and lemonade.

Obituaries

June A. White

Mail Carrier

June A. White, Syracuse, passed away peacefully, shortly after her 90th birthday, at The Waters of Syracuse on Sunday, May 19, 2024.

She was born May 15, 1934, in Lima, Ohio, to her loving parents, William and Anna Blaylock (Beaty).

Growing up in Ohio, she graduated from Kiser High School in Dayton, where she developed a strong foundation for her future career. She later lived in Jamestown, Tenn., before moving to Syracuse in the 1960s. June dedicated her career to serving others as a mail carrier for USPS, a role in which she touched the lives of many with her warmth and kindness.

Beyond her professional life, June had a variety of hobbies that brought her joy. She enjoyed playing tennis, solving crosswords and embarking on road trips with her grandkids. June was surrounded by a loving circle of family and friends who cherished her dearly.

She is survived by her son, Lon White; grandchildren, Kegan Young of Syracuse, Kea Coy of Millersburg, Zac White of Warsaw, Kelcee Foerster of Catalina Island, Calif., and Zoe Knisley of Tacoma, Wash.; along with eight great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in passing by her parents; husband, Charles D. White; long-term friend, John Holloway; daughters, Killie Young and Michelle White; sister, Binnie Howard; and brother, Gordy Blaylock.

Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse is entrusted with the care of June. Friends and family gathered for visitation from noon until 4 p.m. Sunday, May 26, at the funeral home, 1001 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. To leave a condolence or send flowers, please visit TitusFuneralHome.com.

Rick Pinney, son of Lola and Bill, husband to Malinda and father to Rob, passed away Tuesday, May 21, 2024. At various times throughout his life, he was a pilot, sailor, realtor and builder, but he will be most remembered for being an honest and kind man.

While we are all sad, we are grateful to be a part of his life and hope to be as generous to others as he was to us. To paraphrase one of his favorite sayings — Dad, don’t forget to set your watch back a hundred years, wherever you are.

Thanks to all the friends and family who have helped during this difficult time. A memorial gathering will be held from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, June 8, at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse.

Births

Hailey Nicole Schwartz Ryan and Glenda (Hochstetler) Schwartz, Milford, are the parents of a daughter, Hailey Nicole, born at 3:24 a.m. May 29, 2024, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 9 pounds, 6 ounces, and was 19 3/4 inches long.

‘Taps Across the Water’ part of Memorial Day tradition

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Musicians participating in the annual “Taps Across the Water” performed the solemn tune across Webster Lake, Syracuse Lake and Lake Wawasee during the evening of Sunday, May 26, as part of Memorial Day weekend.

The event started on Webster Lake, where more than 40 trumpeters led by Dr. Matt Murdock were ferried from North Webster Town Park to various points round the water. The musicians included numerous band directors and high school students. At 6:30 p.m., the trumpeters simultaneously sounded taps across the lake.

“My dad was a Korean War veteran,” said Murdock. “I grew up very involved in the American Legion. I began playing taps when I was in the seventh grade and have been playing it continuously since then, which was about 45 years ago. I was inspired by Jari Villanueva, who is retired from the D.C. Air Force Band. He started a movement in 2000 to have live instrument trumpet players rather than the recorded bugle (to play taps). When Jari started this in 2020, I kind of jumped on that bandwagon. This is my fourth year here. … To me, as an educator, music is more than just performing. I think we have an obligation, almost a public service, that we can provide things

for music for ceremonies, for military parades, festivals and things like that. I think it’s important to instill that in our young students that it is something outside of school and hopefully they can continue that service after they’ve graduated.”

Before the musicians left for their performances, a few stuck around the park to entertain the audience with rousing versions of patriotic tunes. The color guard from North Webster American Legion Post 253 also was on hand to add solemnity to the ceremony.

Following the playing of taps, everyone reconvened at the park to enjoy a picnic lunch, with some of the trumpeters joining in for a concert of familiar tunes.

Later in the evening, the same musicians gathered at Oakwood Resort on Saturday. Before leaving for their spots around both Syracuse Lake and Lake Wawasee, they performed a variety of inspiring patriotic music from beneath the gazebo in front of the resort.

“This is a big lake,” said Mark Knecht, president of Chautauqua-Wawasee, which helped to organize the event. “We’ve added more people on Syracuse Lake than we’ve ever done before. …

This is meaningful to people. I have more people come up to me and say ‘thank you for doing this,’ because it touches people’s hearts.

We do 20 different events a year.

“I have been playing trumpet for many years, said Strange. “It’s just a great honor to play in remembrance of all of our fallen heroes who have given their freedom for our freedom.”

Strange said he met Murdock at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville and was invited to perform in the holiday ceremony. This was his first time performing at the event.

This is the one that people come up to me and say ‘thank you.’” At 9:09 p.m., the trumpeters one again performed taps from their assigned spots around the two lakes. Performer Kasey Strange of Nashville, Tenn., had the honor of playing at Oakwood, where dozens of people gathered to witness the performance.

Accidents/Incidents

Kosciusko County

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

Accidents

1:23 a.m. Tuesday, May 28, North SR 15 and North Southshore Drive, Syracuse. Driver: Robert L. Eloph, 66, Kimmell. Eloph’s vehicle hit a deer. Damages up to $5,000.

10:25 a.m. Saturday, May 25, North SR 13, Leesburg. Drivers: James L. Sturgill, 39, North CR 950E, North Webster; and Aden P. Wiseman, 21, North CR 475E, Leesburg. Sturgill’s vehicle reversed into Wiseman’s vehicle. Damages up to $5,000.

3:21 p.m. Tuesday, May 21, SR 15 and Anchorage Road, Warsaw. Drivers: Larry D. Guyer, 68, EMS D16 Lane, Syracuse; William T. Michael, 75, Parent Drive, Warsaw; Shepherd Goble, 77, Fox Farm Road, Warsaw; and Sherry L. Durflinger, 61, South Martin Street, Ligonier. Guyer was attempting to turn left onto Anchorage Road and had a flashing yellow arrow when he turned in front of Michael’s vehicle. This collision caused Guyer’s vehicle to hit Goble’s and Durflinger’s. A passenger in Guyer’s vehicle, Lynn G. Guyer, 69, Syracuse, had to be extricated from the vehicle. Lynn was taken to Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital for right knee pain. Michael had multiple cuts on his left arm, and complained of shoulder and hip pain. He was taken to Parkview Warsaw for his injuries. Damage up to $50,000.

11:50 p.m. Monday, May 20, North CR 300E and East CR 1100N, Milford. Driver: Trinity R. Smith, 20, East Main Street, Peru. Smith’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage up to $2,500.

6 a.m. Tuesday, May 21, Armstrong Road and EMS T25 Lane, Warsaw. Driver: Derick B. Le-

count, 41, North CR 1000W, Cromwell. Lecount’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage up to $5,000.

11:50 p.m. Monday, May 20, North CR 300E and East CR 1100N, Milford. Driver: Trinity R. Smith, 20, East Main Street, Peru. Smith’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage up to $2,500. Incidents

2:45 p.m. Wednesday, May 22, 10600 block North Brown Street, Syracuse. Melanie Tolson reported the theft of a rottweiler. Value: $1,775.

11:39 a.m. Wednesday, May 22, 100 block of EMS D21 Lane, Syracuse. Matthew R. Wood lost his wallet and backpack with other items, including money.

Milford

Officers with the Milford Police Department investigated the following incident: Incident 4:08 p.m. Saturday, May 25, 8900 block North Old SR 15, Leesburg. Steven Hoopes, 72, reported criminal mischief to a vehicle windshield. Value: $150.

Syracuse

Officers with the Syracuse Police Department investigated the following accident and incident and made the following arrest: Accident

block North Branch Street, Syracuse. Austin Leasure, 27, 873 Carrington Blvd., Warsaw, was arrested for invasion of privacy.

Warsaw

Officers with the Warsaw Police Department investigated the following accident: Accident

10:49 a.m. Saturday, May 18, Mitchells Boulevard, east of CR 225E, Warsaw. Driver: Dany M. Bonilla Mejia, 25, North CR 900W, Cromwell. Bonilla Mejia backed into a parked vehicle. Damage up to $2,500.

Jail Bookings

Kosciusko County

The following people were booked in the Kosciusko County Jail:

May 23 — Cory Eugene Iden, 40, 5295 E. Bayview Drive, Syracuse, booked for possession of methamphetamine, failure to appear, and on a probation violation. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

Garden IN THE

10:44 a.m. Wednesday, May 22, North SR 13 at East Main Street, Syracuse. Driver: Beverly Helmer, 75, North Rainey Road, Syracuse. Helmer experienced a blood sugar low while making a left turn and her vehicle struck an unoccupied vehicle. Damage up to $2,500.

May 22 — Shane Allen Ketcham, 27, 500 Meadow View Drive, Syracuse, booked on two counts of failure to appear. Bond: $5,250 surety and cash.

May 22 — James Alan Roger Barton, 25, 9798 N. Denzel Drive, Syracuse, booked on a foreign warrant. No bond.

Noble County

The following people were booked in the Noble County Jail: May 23 — Adriana Reyes Mendez, 48, 3757 N. 900W, Cromwell, booked for dealing methamphetamine, possession of cocaine and maintaining a common nuisance. No bond.

The mighty morel

Spring time is mushroom time, and the most sought after “shroom” is the elusive Morchella, aka, morel. This genus of edible sac fungi is recognized by its honeycomb appearance. Among the more than 10,000 mushroom species, this foodie favorite is only found in the wild making them a true foraged delicacy.

They can be found throughout North America in warm moist locations from March to May depending on the state. In my experience, they are easy to spot but vary greatly in size. I’ve seen some as long as six-inches.

Locally, these hard-to-find morsels might best be sighted around various trees like elm, oak, and tulip. But beware of some that look like morels! These similar species have a reddish-brown color, but are solid instead of hollow. These can be poisonous!

Beside adding texture, these tasty morsels add intense flavor to any dish. Many multi-stared restaurants offer them during the spring in a variety of dishes, or even just cook them in white wine and garlic. The surface ridges soak-up flavor making a simple dish, elegant. The darker the shroom, the more intense the flavor.

enjoys is cooking these with pearl onions and asparagus, which we did last weekend. Here’s a recipe:

1 tablespoon butter

Incident 11:45 p.m. Friday, May 24, 1000 block North Branch Street, Syracuse. Officers responded to call of a person violating an active no contact order.

Arrest 11:45 p.m. Friday, May 24, 1000

IN THE Garden

May 23 — Christopher J. Arispe, 36, 122 E. Orange St., Cromwell, booked for a warrant. No bond.

May 20 — David W. Akridge, 32, 6127 N. 950E, North Webster, booked on a warrant. No bond.

Garden IN THE Snowball Bush

viburnum Snowball Bush opens white flowers in mid-spring. The blossoms are 2-3 inches across and fade from white to pink as they age. Fall leaf color features shades of burgundy and purplish red. Because the blooms are sterile, this viburnum does not produce fruit. And while many viburnums are fragrant, Chinese snowball isn’t — a bonus for those with sensitive noses. Once flowering is done, this dense, vase-shaped shrub blends into the background, allowing other plants to steal the show. Get bigger and you can easily satisfy your desires because seven different viburnum shrubs go by the name snowball bush. European Snowball Bush, also known as viburnum opulus ‘Roseum,’ is probably one of the most common.

Other favorites include Japanese Snowball Bush, typically listed as viburnum plicatum, and fragrant Snowball Bush viburnum carlcephalum. Chinese snowball bush viburnum macrocephalum is another classic, as is the grandflowering Snowball Bush viburnum plicatum ‘Grandiflorum.’ Japanese Snowball viburnum has, as the name suggests, a connection to Japan. That’s the first place this snowball viburnum bush was spotted in a garden setting.

Botanically, Japanese Snowball viburnum is known as viburnum plicatum. The species name for Japanese Snowball viburnum, “plicatum,” means pleated or folded, which describes the leaves on this beauty. The leaves are strongly veined and have an almost ruffled ap-

pearance. During the growing season, snowball bush viburnum has green leaves that provide a beautiful backdrop to the spring flower show.

Sometimes it’s listed as v opulus ‘Sterile,’ which is commonly called Eastern Snowball viburnum. European Snowball Bush blooms in spring opening flower clusters that are 3 inches across. The flowers start apple green and age to white. This is one of the oldest recorded viburnums, dating to the 16th century, when it was called “sambucus rose.”

Viburnum Carlcephalum adds a sweet perfume to beautiful snowball bush flowers. It’s known as fragrant snowball bush and opens its blossoms toward late spring. The blooms start as pink buds that unfurl to reveal blush pink white flowers. Individual flower globes measure 5 inches across and are made of up to 100 individual blossoms. The scent is rich and pervasive with carnation clove overtones.

If you know you want this plant, one way to make sure it’s the flower form you want is by buying it in bloom.

Before cooking morels (Eating them raw could raise havoc!), soak them in salt water to remove any insects that may have chosen them as a home. Depending on the size, I cut them in half to assure that dirt and bugs are removed. Regardless, be sure to rinse well!

I like to cook them with onions in a butter, wine, garlic concoction and allow the shrooms to soak up all the goodness. One dish we’ve

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

6-8 pearl onions, peeled, halved, or quartered

2 large garlic cloves, minced

A bunch of asparagus, tough stems removed, large stems split in half

A bunch of morels, cut in half, and/or about two-inch pieces 1

or sovereign blanc

Make water safety a priority

With the start of summer here, Indiana Conservation Officers remind Hoosiers to make water safety a priority now and throughout the season.

“With the kickoff to summer upon us, all Hoosiers are urged to recognize the danger water poses and make water safety the utmost priority,” said Capt. Jet Quillen of the Department of Natural Resources Division of Law Enforcement.

Follow these basic safety tips:

• Discuss the dangers of water with your family and loved ones before going out.

• Tell someone where you are going and when you will return.

• Go with a buddy.

• Do not venture around flooded or fast-moving waterways.

• Wear a life jacket.

• Keep an extra watchful eye on children.

• Avoid alcohol.

If you go boating, make sure you know the rules and boat safely. Reduce speed in unfamiliar areas and be aware of unusual water conditions respective to your size and type of boat. These are not only safety tips, but also important environmental considerations, as they can help prevent beach erosion. Regardless of your boat type, assess water levels before going out and monitor your speed

Court News

Superior Court III

The following fines for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:

Speeding — Irma Garza, Milford, $164.50; Tylor S. Sweet, Syracuse, $164.50

Driving while suspended — Logan S. House, Milford, $189.50

Failure to register, no valid driver’s license — Omar Campos, Milford, $189.50

Marriage Licenses

Maynard-Durham

Ashley Ann Maynard, 35, Pierceton, and Ben Curtis Durham, 42, Syracuse Campbell-Cygan

Cody Allen Campbell, 33, Syracuse, and Kayla Christine Cygan, 33, Syracuse Westerman-Warren

Andrew Jay Westerman, 49, North Webster, and Bonny Dee Warren, 53, North Webster

Simmons-Rensberger

Dominique J. Simmons, 35, Leesburg, and Thomas D. Rensberger, 47, Warsaw Heathcote-Hart

Corey J. Heathcote, 46, Leesburg, and Sarah E. Hart, 45, Leesburg Medina-Reyes

Javier Estrada Medina, 57, Milford, and Theresa L. Reyes, 52, Warsaw

Marriage Dissolutions

The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in Kosciusko Superior Courts I and IV: Carver-Shuster — Kelsea Carver, Cromwell, and James Shuster II, Warsaw. They were married Nov. 2, 2017, and separated in August 2021. One minor child. Olmstead — Jeremy Olmstead, Milford, and Terry Olmstead, Milford. They were married Dec. 18, 2018, and separated May 10, 2024. No minor children.

while underway. Designate a sober boat operator. Alcohol causes impaired balance, blurred vision, poor coordination, impaired judgment and slower reaction time. Wave action, sun exposure and wind can magnify these effects. It is illegal to operate a motorboat or personal watercraft in Indiana while intoxicated due to alcohol or drugs. Indiana law defines intoxication as having a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or greater. Each life jacket should be

United States Coast Guard approved, in good working condition and size appropriate for the wearer. New life jackets are designed to be lighter, less obtrusive and more comfortable than those of the past. Inflatable life jackets allow mobility and flexibility for activities like boating, fishing or paddling, and can be much cooler in warmer weather than older-style life jackets. To learn more about boating education and safety, see on.IN. gov/boatered.

Community Corner

Olivia Siri prepping to go to SkillsUSA Nationals

Like many of us during the COVID shutdown, Olivia Siri found a hobby through boredom. Unlike most of us, she’s been able to turn that hobby into a career.

She started doing nails during COVID. “But I wasn’t really interested in cosmetology,” she said. She signed up for cosmetology on a whim while making out her junior year class schedule. Before her sophomore year was over, she had to interview for the class.

“It was kind of scary,” Siri said. “They (teachers Angie Higginbotham and Lisa Firestone) sent a letter to the class you were in (about the interview). I was so nervous.”

Regardless of those nerves, Siri was accepted into the class. She explained she liked doing her nails and wanted to have long, acrylic nails. “There wasn’t a certain reason, just convenience,” she said.

Siri took cosmetology classes at Fairfield Junior/ Senior High School.

During her junior year, a representative from SkillsUSA came in to explain the program. SkillsUSA is a nationally recognized workforce development. organization for students.

an hour and 15 minutes for her nail art.

“I finished my nail art 5-10 minutes early,” she said. She explained she took her time on the acrylic and structured gel so she had a really good base for the nail art.

As she was working on her nail art, Higginbotham and Firestone were observing and wondering what was going on. Siri had changed the theme of her nail art the night before she left for Indianapolis for the competition.

For regionals, she did Van Gogh inspired nails. For state she was going to go with a stained glass theme. “It didn’t seem right to me, so I switched it,” she said.

Siri said she prefers doing nail art more than simple nails. “It challenges me,” she said. She keeps up with the newest trends through TikTok and Instagram.

She was surprised she that she won state. In addition to showing her nail work, Siri also had to take a written test.

“In order to win, you have to do a written exam. This year, I did really well,” she said.

PROFILE

Nationals will be the last week of June. The competition is a week long and held in Atlanta, Ga. Three other members of Fairfield’s cosmetology program are also going to compete.

PLEIN AIR PAINTING AT OAKWOOD — Terri Buchholz, Fort Wayne and Lake Papakeechie, participated in the Indiana Plein Air Paint Out during the Oakwood Fine Arts Festival Saturday, May 24. Buchholz was doing a painting of the gardens and front of the Oakwood Inn. Photo by Lauren Zeugner.

SPEAKER Brad King presented the program for Lakeland Kiwanis Monday, May 20. King is the owner of King’s Small Engine, 8700E 500N. King, right, is shown with Brandon Dennis.

King services and repairs mowers, chainsaws, blowers, trimmers, portable generators and snow blowers. He also sharpens blades and chains.

SkillsUSA also has skills-based contests for students. Siri said everyone in her class signed up to participate. She competed in nails her junior year and came in second at the state level. This year she came in first and will be traveling to nationals to represent the state of Indiana in nails.

For the SkillsUSA competition, Siri had to bring a model. For her first place finish, she had to demonstrate pinks and whites and structured gel, which is thicker than regular gel nail polish.

In competition the structured gel is clear. Siri then competed in nail art, which is done over the structured gel and can be any theme.

Siri’s theme was 2024 nail trends. Siri said nail trends for this year are “lots of chrome or shiny, stars, crocodile print, french tips, gems and almond shaped nails.”

Speaking of her model, Siri said, “This year, I did a really difficult type on her pinky, because her nails were really tiny.”

During the competition, Siri had an hour for each hand, acrylic and structured gel, and then

And for nationals, her cousin, who is also a state officer for SkillsUSA, will be her hand model. “We’re really close. She’s just a year younger than me,” Siri said. The nationals competition also includes a pedicure.

Siri earned her cosmetology license in April and has been working part time at a salon in Warsaw, doing nails and a hair apprenticeship.

A cosmetology license covers cosmetology, barbering, nail and aesthetics.

Siri said building up her own clientele is hard, “I’m naturally a shy person,” she explained. But she’s had a few reviews that have been really good and has helped her with her confidence.

This week, Siri is gearing up for graduation. She will then move from working part time to full time at the salon.

When she isn’t busy with schoolwork or working, Siri, the daughter of Mike and Ashley Siri, enjoys spending time with family. She’s looking forward to a family trip to celebrate her 18th birthday.

Mobile Meals drivers

THURSDAY — C. Hill FRIDAY — P.

MONDAY — M.

—

MONDAY — C.& J. Spickelmier

TUESDAY — Wilson/Whealy

WEDNESDAY — R. Chambers

THURSDAY — C. & J. Spickelmier

FRIDAY — J. Parcell

The Lakeland Kiwanis is a great place to meet new friends and enrich your life. Photo provided by Lakeland Kiwanis.

‘Block

Party’ at North Webster library helps children build skills

Purdue Extension Kosciusko County Health and Human Science educator, Shannon Shepherd, will be presenting “Block Party” at North Webster Public Library, 110 E. North St.

The lesson is being offered on three different Mondays, June 3, June 10 and June 17, and will run from 1-2 p.m.

“Block Party” consists of five stations with different types of blocks. The children and their parents rotate through the different stations, which focus on different areas of development.

The program is provided to engage parents and guardians in block play with their children. The goal is for families to continue block play at home.

Blocks use a child’s own action for learning skills, with adult support, in the areas of math, science, literacy (pre-reading and language), social and physical (gross and fine motor development). Parenting skills are further developed at a block party through demonstrations and guided practice. In the “Block Party” programs, adults learn to guide children’s early-learning experiences and use blocks as tools to support a child’s development.

North Webster students sail with ‘Captain Cash’

“Captain Cash,” an elementary school curriculum designed by Purdue Extension for third-grade students, recently sailed. During the voyage, 20 third graders from North Webster participated in classroom activities, which helped them consider the following themes: the more you learn the more you earn; every payday save some cash away; there is an end to what you can spend; and for a safer tomorrow, be wise when you borrow. Additionally, relevant children’s

books brought the financial literacy program to life and helped students learn that reading makes “cents.”

Purdue Extension’s partnership with North Webster for “Captain Cash” let students sail on an educational money voyage with handson, interactive learning sessions to gain a better understanding of money concepts that will serve them throughout life. If you would like to learn more about “Captain Cash” for your school or organization, or embark on a money voyage of your own, contact Shannon Shepherd, Kosciusko County educator, at (574) 372-2340 or via email at shephe52@ purdue.edu.

Milford Elementary caps off school year with annual awards

Milford Elementary School held its annual awards ceremony Thursday morning, May 23.

Winners of the Kiwanis Positive Mental Attitude Award by grade are as follows.

Kindergarten: Zane Wilson, Trace Beer, Victoria Goss, Sofia Hernandez and Zachariah Schmucker.

First Grade: Atticus Tolsma, Camdyn Deak, Jada Bucher, Connor Biggs and Adelyn Montes.

Second Grade: William Wuthrich, Bailey Casey, Daizy McCall, Eliana Smith and Henry Miller.

Third Grade: Carmella Moreno, Ellodie LeCount-Bender, Logan Castro, Sawyer Sharp and Avery Haynie.

Fourth Grade: Lola Stoller, Bennett Berkeypile, Zeke Savage, Rosemary Miller and Leo Frick.

Fifth Grade: Emeline Baut, Keegan Breece, Noah Gall and Annaleah Warren.

One student from each class is chosen for a PTO Most Improved Award. This year’s winners were Keegan Pond, Amaya Rose Valerio-Reavis, Olivia Replogle, Daleysa Hernandez, Jafet Colmenero Ortiz,

Amelia Beer, Sylas Terry, Casey Ferguson, Bennington Kern, Harper Meadors, Alinea Clark and Alison Garcia.

Zachary Maxwell received the Musician of the Year award.

Addison Romo received the Artist of the Year award.

The physical education Warrior of the Year award went to Noah Gall and the Lady Warrior of the Year award went to Marin Szynal. The Turn Around Award was presented to Fabian Sanchez.

The Gotcha Award winner in the K-1-2 category was Roman lakushev. In the 3-4-5 category, Zeke Savage was the winner. The staff winner was Haley Carson.

Presidential Awards for Outstanding Academic Excellence were given to Emeline Baut, Keegan Breece, Carmen Carter, Noah Gall, Braxton Garcia, Camden Harney, Ella Jamiel, Zachary Maxwell, Mia Smith, Talon Van Hawk and Alaine Young. A Presidential Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement was given to Ava Deaton. The Woodard Strong award went to Noelle Nethaway. The Skylar Spore Award went to Michael Rodriguez.

Additional scholarships presented at the WHS awards ceremony

A list of the scholarships presented at Wawasee High School’s annual senior awards ceremony Sunday, May 19 was printed in last week’s edition of The Mail-Journal. A few scholarships were missing from the list. They are as follows: The Harvest Coffee Agricultural Scholarship was awarded to Libby Haab. The Syracuse American Legion 223 Auxiliary awarded scholarships to Libby Haab, Emma Jackson, Lynk Klinefleter, Madalyn

Loftis and Zachary Ringler.

The North Webster American Legion Auxiliary Unit 253 awarded scholarships to Landen Kessler, Adaline Haynes and Samantha Rose.

The Gill Family Charitable Endowment Veterinary Scholarship was awarded to Anthony Brace and Emma Jackson, The David F. Lichtenauer Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Brooklyn Gibson, Allyssa Perkins and Summit Shaw.

Fidler named to dean’s list

NWES second semester honor roll

The following students were named to the honor roll for the second semester at North Webster Elementary School.

All A Honor Roll

Fifth grade — Angel Hochstetler, Noah Marion, Layla Whitton, Braxton Allen, Olivia

Knepper, Wesley Morris, Noxx White, Bronson Allen and Brooklynn Heimann. Fourth grade — Blythe Crabill, Fayte Cummings, Parks Francis, Emmarson Gunkel, Griffin Lauck, Justin Reid, Joey Zachary, Kendra Cooper, Lucy Dawson, Addison Gardner, Asher Popenfoose, Caleb Wilson, Brantley Corrao, Quinn Harman, Graysen Shipley, Luis Sifuentes Ceballos and Alejandro Valle. Third grade — Elijah Heimann, Quinn Kerby, Luna Merchant, Khaeler Smith, Alanya White, Odette Anderson, Heidi Collar, Piper Francis, Alayna Kime, Kaylyn McCo-

nnell, Amelia Mock, Caroline Mock, Sophia Nolin, Colt Sherman, Remington Wood, Sage Buchanan, Lucy Gerke, Cameron Morrow,Carley Smith and Giovanni Solache.

A/B Honor Roll

Fifth grade — Dante Corrao, Bailey Fuerste, Norah Hagan, Madden Head, Isabella Johnson, Odysseus Olsen, Ameliah Schmerber, Spencer Warren,Griffin White, Naevia Doty, Jesse Miretti, Stella Mock, Jaxson Rumbaugh, Jaxson Thornsbearry, Kurtis Zollinger, Xzavier Bartman, Isabelle Caudill, Jackson Clark, Tieson Coy, Kinsey Jacobs, Audree McLaughlin and Savah-

anna Somers.

Fourth grade — Tyler Gittings, Sam Kompagne, Lane Likens, Lathan Mahns, Gavin Phillips, Damein Thorn, Jacob Allen, Marley Clark, Skylar George, Cynthia Jones, Chase McClintic, Julian Perales, Colin Rasnake, Nolan Spaw, Abigail Sturgill, Ava Avery, Ben Cooper, Kingston Davies, Adlynn Fisher, Cambie Garden, Quentin Likens, Maddie Powell, Mason Roes, Karlie Sheets, Lilah Sibery, Kaidan Somers, Nathan Spaw and Indica Stephen.

Third grade — Tanner Alwardt, Sawyer Barrett, Ramses Doty, Jayden Heileman,

Rebel McDaniel, Madalynn Miller, John Sielesnew, Rohnan Timmons, Emma Wetters, Mylah Eakright, Paisley Edwards, Declan Fitzpatrick, Zoey Gardner, Giovanni Howey, Amya McLaughlin, Jesse Sielesnew,

Nolan

Trine University students complete spring degrees

Trine University students completed degrees at the end of the spring 2024 semester. The following area students completed their degrees: • Brayanna Kelly of Milford,

Syracuse Elementary celebrates students with award ceremony

Syracuse Elementary School honored its student body with an award ceremony on the last student day, Thursday, May 23. The award ceremony highlighted the hard academic work the students put in this past calendar year.

Dr. Tom Edington, Syracuse’s interim principal, opened the ceremony with remarking to students they should be very proud of the ways they, both academically, emotionally and physically, conducted themselves this year.

“We have had a great, memorable year here at Syracuse. I have been blessed to get to know each and every one of you,” Edington said.

Brenda Stiver announced and passed out the art club awards. Awardees included Olivia Camacho, Melody Slabaugh, Olivia Slabaugh, Grace Flenar, Leah Thornburg, Olivia Woods, Eddie Gonzalez, Bayne Mickem, Gracelyn Anderson, Talen Thornburg,

Sadie Fedder, Gunner Maynus, Liam Miller and Timo Plotnikov.

Kris Stump stepped up to the microphone and announced the music awards. Stump started with the Music Award. To be eligible for the Music Award, students must participate in all three years in Drum Circle and two years in choir. Winners of the Music Award were Dawson Miller, Lyla Parker and Myles Rager. The winners of the Music Director’s Award hit the same criteria but also went above and beyond in the class room. Winners of the Music Director’s Award were Sully Moore, Melody Slabaugh, Olivia Slabaugh and Evelyn Bowser.

Stump recognized the beginner Drum Circle, which included Abigail Fawley, Amelia Sophia Gonzalez, Arianna Hall, Aria Trevino, Caleb Hall, Callen Lortie, Celia Huff-Garcia, Clayton Martin, Dorian Piercy, Eliana Diaz, Ethan Cheng, Grant Godsey, Gurnimit Singh, Isabella Ketcham, Jax Gregory, Isabella Knisley, Ken Cheng, Lennox Sanchez,

Leo Cheng, Lillianna Wiggs, Lily Shoemaker, Lucas Weisser, Natalia Gohlke, Nora Dailey, Owen Baskerville, Reagan Beasley, Rhyker Nordin, Rylan Stutzman, Sadie Woods, Sophia McCullough, Carlie Bauer and TJ Dimmick.

Stump announced the advanced Drum Circle, which included Abigail McKenzie, Addison Peterson, AJ Levinson, Allison Stephen, Ashley Large, Baylor Hursey, Christian Bowling, Dawson Miller, Eli Mikel, Emalynn Weisser, Grace Flenar, Hally Garrison, Hudson Nguyen, Indie Atteberry, Kameron Haman, Kiyo Parker, Kylie McCreary, Landon Abel, Landon Prescott, Leah Thornburg, Leighton Waikel, Liam Miller, Lydia Plikerd, Lyla Parker, Melody Slabaugh, Myles Rager, Olivia Slabaugh, Sara Bontrager, Sully Moore and Winnie Jackson. Then, Stump honored special choir, which included Abigail McKenzie, Addasynn Waggoner, Allison Stephen, Ashley Large, Avery Woods, Bella Rose, Brantley Heckaman, Christian Bowling, Cobie Rodriguez, Darby Fitzsimmons, Dawson Miller, Dorian Piercy, Dylan Moser, Ethan Cheng, Evelyn Bowser, Gunner Maynus, Gurleen Kaur, Hadley Granger, Hally Garrison, Hollie Arriola, Hudson Nguyen, Indie Atteberry, Jackson Fields, Ken Cheng, Kiyo Parker, Kylie McCreary, Leo Cheng, Liam Miller, Lillian Curry, Lydia Plikerd, Lyla Parker, Lyndan Tenney, Melody Slabaugh, Michael Schwalm and Myles Rager.

Chase Pinion announced the PE awards. The top two girls and top two boys in grades third through five were honored for each category.

The mile P.E. award winners were Jordan Malone, Dominic Bradley, Evelyn Bowser, Olivia Slabaugh, Lucas Mathew, Eli Mikel, Makaya Gohlke and Vivian Abel.

Most sit-ups in a minute winners were Zack Johnson, Bradley Miller, Olivia Camacho, Sara Bontrager, Coy Hunter, Mathew Mickem, Kiyo Parker, Ivy Bradley, Greyson Bryan, Dimitri Ward, Kinsley Leach, Lily Shoemaker and Aria Treviho.

Winners of the sit and reach were Bradley Miller, Leighton Waikel, Baylee Trowbridge, Cobie Rodriguez, Michael Rorick, Luke Joyce, Avery Woods, Olive Stutzman, Paisley Gibson, Hally Garrison, Carter Zamora, Thomas Dimmick, Jasmine Smith-Thomas, Keltie Anderson and Reagan Beasley.

Winners of the 20-yard dash were Landon Prescott, Jordan Malone, Evelyn Bowser, Jordan Reyes, Eli Mikel, Lane Erb, Winni Jackson, Makaya Gohlke, Nash Niles, Tima Plotnikov, Ella Gibson and Sophia Gilreath.

Winners of the most pull-ups were Jordan Malone, Dawson Miller, Olivia Camacho, Stephanie Shaffer, Jenna Polsean, Carly Vanover, Live Williams, Brantly Heckerman, Londyn Winebrenner, Lydia Plikerd, Liam Lees, Beck Heil, Sophia Gilreath, Ab-

igail Fawley, Celia Huff-Garcia and Kinsley Leach. Blaine Klenke was awarded a certificate for his archery achievements.

Students who participated in the Hoosier Book Challenge were awarded for their efforts. The students who reached 10 out of 20 books and passed the quizzes were Sully Moore, Blaine Klenke, Hadley Granger, Olivia Woods, Liam Miller, Mylee Rowe, Annabella Rose, Jaycee Lemak, Kiyo Parker, Ivy Bradley, Gunner Maynus, Gracelynn Anderson, Evelyn Bowser, Dawson Miller and Katie Carter. These students were rewarded with a $10 gift certificate. The students who read and passed quizzes for all 20 out of 20 books in the Hoosier Book Challenge were Eddie Gonzales, Darby Fitzsimmons, Emmalyn Weisser, Lyla Parker and Sadie Fedder. These students were rewarded with a $10 gift certificate and an ice cream party. The award ceremony ended with honoring the fifth grade students maintained good grades with the Presidential Academic Excellence Award. The awardees of this award were Landon Abel, Evelyn Bowser, Robert Griffith, Lyndan Tenney, Emmalyn Weisser, Olivia Camacho, Ethan Cheng, Lyla Parker, Sara Bontrager, Kameron Haman, Alice Levinson, Sullivan Moore, Hudson Nguyen, Landon Prescott, Olivia Woods, Cole Cline, Emma Funk, Baylor Hursey, Dorian Piercy, Melody Slabaugh and Olivia Slabaugh. earning a degree in psychology and criminal justice • Aundreya Wegener of Syracuse, earning a degree in elementary education/ special education dual licensure.

Wawasee Middle School hosts awards program

Wawasee Middle School had its end of the year school awards program Thursday, May 23.

The following awards were presented:

Seventh Grade Teacher Awards

MATH

Advanced Academic Excellence

Baylee Longmire

Academic Excellence

Ava Calhoon, Nate Shaffer, Dru Hough, Annabelle Gomez-Gonzales Warrior Award

Joy Bucher, Ava Calhoon Language Arts

Academic Excellence

Faith Sapp, Rhett Bucher, Paul Marion (Advanced), Jeremiah Jones, Joy Bucher

Warrior Award

Ella Medley, Lily Douglas, Nate Senders

SCIENCE

Academic Excellence

Samuel Schwartz, Mallory Szynal, Norah Grossnickle, Adrian Dershem Warrior Award

Colton Hagan, Lillian Schutz, Leonardo Ughetti, Maddison

Ruhe

SOCIAL STUDIES

Academic Excellence

Sophie Hunter, Sam Schwartz, Norah Grossnickle, Bennett

McKenzie

Warrior Award

Caleb Dennis, Myra Miretti

End of the Year Teacher Awards

Encore

Visual Arts

Academic Award

Eighth grade — Raily

Klinefelter

Seventh grade — Jaclyn

Trowbridge

Sixth grade — Emma Katzer

Warrior Award

Eighth grade — Ben

Schmucker

Seventh grade — Baylee

Longmire

Sixth grade — Emma Hunt

BAND

Academic Award

Eighth grade — Ellie Eltzroth, Taylin Hoover, Raily

Klinefelter

Seventh grade — Kera Owens, Sam Schwartz, Mallory

Szynal

Sixth grade — Kendall

Scheeren, Trevor Roberts, Olivia Wake

Warrior Award

Eighth grade — Kaitlyn Large, Conor Feeney, Bryson Spoor

Seventh grade — Annabelle Gomez-Gonzalez, Caleb Dennis, Khloe McIntire

Sixth grade — Bracken Thomas, Ashdin Vuittonet, Brandt Griffith

CHOIR

Academic Award

Eighth grade — Savannah Davies, Jaiden Jones

Seventh grade — Carter Wolfe, Shelby Delgado

Sixth grade — Carter Edgar, Morgan Rater

Warrior Award

Eighth grade — Frankie Levinson

Seventh grade — Baliegh Gunkle

Sixth grade — Lexi Mahns FAMILY AND CONSUMER

SCIENCES

Warrior Award

Eighth grade — Leah Hurst, Everett Guy

Seventh grade — Sophie Hunter, Abby Lehman

Sixth grade — Carter Edgar, Lincoln Stoller HEALTH

Warrior Award (girl)

Eighth grade — Zayla Shorthill

Seventh grade — Khloe McIntire

Sixth grade — Lexi Mahns

HEALTH

Warrior Award (boy)

Eighth grade — Kaydon Salyer

Seventh grade — Carter Ringle

Sixth grade — Zephyr Losee

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Warrior Award (boy)

Eighth grade — Beckham Denton

Seventh grade — Brandon Ziebarth

Sixth grade — Keagan Taylor

Warrior Award (girl)

Eighth grade — Liliana Garcia

Seventh grade — Megan Warstler

Sixth grade — Genevieve Zachary

AQUATICS

Warrior Award (boy)

Eighth grade — Emiliano

Bautista-Delara

Seventh grade — NA

Sixth grade — Key’din Hensle

Warrior Award (Girl)

Eighth grade — Jayden

Klenke

Seventh grade — Joy Bucher, Elizabeth Schmucker

Sixth grade — Avery Altzroth

ROBOTICS

Warrior Award (boy)

Sixth grade — Ethan Napier

Warrior Award (girl)

Seventh grade — Madison Wilson, Sophia Coday

Eighth grade — Addison Abel, Elise Berkeypile, Hadley Alen

End of the Year

Teacher Awards

Sixth Grade

MATH

Advanced Academic Excellence

Keagan Taylor, Michael Parker

Academic Excellence

Megan Menzie, Levi Baskerville, Claire Jagger, Scarlett Sibery, Kinley Weaver, Rylan Gregory Warrior Award

Kate Abel, Reed Heil, Lainey Jacobs, Hadley Lauck, Eland Fawley, Kara Owens, Laila Rowe, Dasha Anacleto

LANGUAGE ARTS

Advanced Academic Excellence

Jordan McKinzie, Lincoln Stoller

Academic Excellence

Aaron Schmucker, Jenna Beer, Kate Abel, Landon Marsh, Van Wilson, Adam Schmucker Warrior Award

Tucker Beer, Brailynn Plummer, Lillyana Weisser, Ian Tayagua, Cassi White, Lilly Howard, Rylan Gregory SCIENCE

Academic Excellence

Olivia Wake, Eland Fawley, Bracken Thomas, Carter Edgar, Emma Hunt, Tucker Beer, Liam Colgrove, Zephyr Losee Warrior Award

Vaniah Wilson, Jordan McKinzie, Dasha Anacleto, Ezaiah Avila

SOCIAL STUDIES

Academic Excellence

Kendall Scheeren, Lincoln Stoller, Jenna Beer, Hawken Wallace, Scarlet Sibery, Emma Katzer, Olivia Wake, Rowan Bontrager Warrior Award

Hadley Lauck, Lillyana Weisser, Dasha Anacleto, Lillian Howard, Jordan McKinzie, Landon Marsh, Ethan Napier, Kaylyn Nolley

Scholar-Athlete/Arts Awards

Four Or More Activities

Eighth grade — Addison A. Abel, Madelynn J. Fedder, Steven C. Hackleman, Jaiden C. Jones, Alexis J. Katzer, Jadyn S. Klen-

and

North Webster Elementary School celebrated students’ achievements with an end of the school year assembly and awards ceremony on Wednesday, May 22. The list of award winners are: Young Hoosier Book Award Fourth grade — Angel Hochstetler, Adlynn Fisher, Griffin Lauck, Parks Francis Spelling Bee Winner

Fifth grade — Griffin White

Spelling Bee Runner Up

Fifth grade — Braylie Mickem Camp Crosley Compass Award

Fifth grade — Ameliah Schmerber, Easton Yoder, Noxx White

Camp Mack Award

Fourth grade — Colin Rasnake and Raena Steg

Janet Perzee Aspiring Reader

First grade — Elva DeGroff, Gunnar Olson, Valerie Vallejo

Susan Doll Kindness Award

First grade — Emilyn Breetz and Finnley Yoder Steve Jones Live Like A Champion

Fifth grade — Easton Yoder

Jaime Clevenger Art Award

Fifth grade — Izaak Espinoza and Savahanna Somers

Turn Around Award

Fifth grade — Jackson Meck

A/B Honor Roll

Fifth grade — Ameliah Schmerber, Bailey Fuerste, Dante Corrao, Griffin White, Isabella Johnson,Madden Head, Norah Hagan, Norah Hagan, Odysseus Olsen, Spencer Warren, Jaxson Rumbaugh, Jaxson Thornsbearry, Jesse Miretti, Kurtis Zollinger, Naevia Doty, Olivia Knepper, Stella Mock, Audree McLaughlin, Isabelle Caudill, Jackson Clark, Kinsey Jacobs, Savahanna Somers, Tieson Coy, Xzavier Bartman.

Fourth grade — Adlynn Fisher, Alejandro Valle, Benjamin Cooper, Brantley Corrao, Cambrie Garden, Indica Stephen, Kaidan Somers, Lilah Sibery, Maddilynn Powell, Nathaniel Spaw, Quentin Likens, Abigail Sturgill, Chase McClintic,Colin Rasnake, Cynthia Jones, Julian Perales,Kendra Cooper, Marley Clark, Nolan Spaw, Skylar George, Blythe Crabill, Damein Thorn, Gavin Phillips, Joseph Zachary, Justin Reid, Samuel Kompagne, Tyler Gittings.

Third Grade — Mylah Eakright, Adam Wolfe, Amya McLaughlin,Colt Sherman, Declan Fitzpatrick, Heidi Collar, Jesse Sielesnew, Nolan Willett, Paisley Edwards, Zoey Gardner, Emma Wetters, Jean-Luc Doty, John Sielesnew, Madalynn Miller, Rebel McDaniel, Rohnan Timmons, Sawyer Barrett, Carley Smith, Emma Johnson, Jace Emslander, Kellen Mock, Lillie Logan, Mason Heche,

Neely, Ryder Kern, Taylor Arthur All A Honor Roll Fifth Grade — Angel Hochstetler, Layla Whitton, Noah Marion, Braxton Allen, Noxx White, Wesley Morris, Braylie Mickem, Bronson Allen, Brooklynn Heimann Fourth grade — Graysen Shipley, Luis Sifuentes Ceballos, Quinn Harman, Addison Gardner, Asher Popenfoose, Caleb Wilson, Lucy Dawson, Emmarson Gunkel, Fayte Cummings, Griffin Lauck, Parks Francis.

Third Grade — Alayna Kime,Amelia Mock, Caroline Mock,Kaylyn McConnell, Odette Anderson, Piper Francis, Remington Wood, Sophia Nolin, Alanya White, Elijah Heimann, Khaeler Smith, Luna Merchant, Quinn Kerby, Cameron Morrow, Giovanni Solache, Lucy Gerke, Sage Buchanan. Warrior Award

Fifth grade — Norah Hagan, Odysseus Olsen, Braxton Allen, Naevia Doty, Kinsey Jacobs, Zoe Boros, Christopher Swartzlander, Kinsly Hughes, Adalynn Shock, Maverick Beck, Boston Wellington, Stella Sherman, Kayley Firestone Fourth grade — Lilah Sibery, Luis Sifuentes Ceballos, Kyson Morris, Skylar George, Raena Steg, Wyatt McLaughlin Third grade — Colt Sherman, Kaylyn McConnell, Jean-Luc Doty, Quinn Kerby, Colton Nabinger, Emma Johnson Second grade — Caleb Cooper, Eliza Kompagne, Charlotte Steele, Joe Reid, Cyzer Deters, Josiah Schmerber First grade — Cheyenne Thomas, Remington Nabinger, Bruce Rush, Rennlee Einhaus, Kylie Jacobs, Maddox Heisler Kindergarten — Christopher Swartzlander, Kinsly Hughes, Maverick Beck, Stella Sherman, Kayley Firestone, Micah Snider, Boston Wellington All Academic Award Fifth grade — Bronson Allen, Brooklynn Heimann, Wesley Morris, Noah Marion, Layla Whitton Fourth grade — Asher Popenfoose, Graysen Shipley, Lucy Dawson, Parks Francis, Quinn Harman Third grade — Elijah Heimann, Giovanni Solache, Lucy Gerke, Luna Merchant, Odette Anderson Second grade — Daniel Small, Isaac Conley, Jayce Trainer, Kora Popenfoose, Wren Harman NWES Presidential Physical Fitness Award

Fifth grade — Bronson Allen

Fourth grade — Kyson Morris NWES National Physical Fitness Award

Fifth grade — Dante Corrao, Layla Whitton, Braxton Allen, Brooklynn Heimann, Audree McLaughlin, Easton Yoder

Continued on page 8 Continued on

Wawasee Middle School

Continued from page 7

ke, Richard J. Mathew IV, Jack D. Shoemaker, Candice A. Stoffel, Tyler L. Vazquez

Seventh grade — Addison M. Barger, Londen E. Dilley, Sophie E. Hunter, Jeremiah R. Jones, Jude A. Rhodes, Mallory C. Szynal, Addison Worrell

Sixth grade — Eland R. Fawley, Hayden T. Wortinger

Three Activities

Eighth grade — Elizabeth G. Anderson, Elise C. Berkeypile, Jamisen R. Dixon, Memphis J. Freiburger, Kenlee Grady, Abigail R. Gross, Leah G. Hurst, Railey Klinefelter, Kaitlyn N. Large, Dirks W. Miller, Luke R. Nettrouer, Emily D. Ringler, Carson N. Scherer, Zaiyla B. Shortill, Cohen M. Tom, Marin Wagoner

Seventh grade — Oliver S. Boesenberg, Sophia L. Coday, Oliver F. Compton, John E. Gall,

Ava M. Hettinger, Adriana S. Michael, Vincenzo C. Piersall, Jaclyn Trowbridge

Sixth grade — Katelyn J. Abel, Carter W. Edgar, Reed A. Heil, Claire E. Jagger, Megan D. Menzie, Kendall M. Scheeren, Emily L. Stookey, Sadie J. Swain, Olivia R. Wake, Genevieve D. Zachary

Two Activities

Eighth grade — HadleyM. Allen, Aidan R. Beer, Jack R. Bradford, Mia M. Bradley, Jordyn A. Cabeen, Beckham M. Denton, Bailyn Dobbelaere-Likens, Winston Farrington, Kailyb A. Ferrer, Scarlett J. Hardy, Mark D. Haynes, Elizabeth G. Iden, Olivia L. Krichbaum, Francine M. Levinson, Colten J. Lortie, Katelyn A. Plikerd, Chloe M. Smeltzer, Hayden K. Stanley, Luke E. Thompson, Audra M. Weaver

North Webster Elementary

Fourth grade — Cambrie Garden, Graysen Shipley, Asher Popenfoose, Carsyn Campbell, Lane Likens, Joseph Zachary

Third grade — Odette Anderson, Heidi Collar, Amelia Mock, Kyrie Bonds, Ruby Grim, Mason Heche

Second grade — Terence Bennett, Brystal Bower, Hayden George, Lucy Sumpter, Marshall Taylor, Asher Tharp

First grade — Jace Dobbelaere-Likens, Isaiah Habegger, Emilyn Breetz, Tatum Menefee, Ensley Brennaman, Emma Gerke, Spencer Grim, Landon Mock, Finnley Yoder

Outstanding Attendance Awards

Fifth grade — Amanda Powell, Braxton Allen, Jackson Meck, Jaxson Thornsbearry

Fourth grade — Brantley Corrao, Kendra Cooper, Luis Sifuentes Ceballos

PRINCIPAL’S LIST These eighth grade students at Wawasee Middle School earned all As all three school years.

Pictured in front row from left are Leah G. Hurst, Madelynn Fedder,

Seventh grade — Aaliyah J. Allen, Brody E. Bradford, Jewlini N. Brennaman, Joy I. Bucher, Rhett M. Bucher, Jacksen M. Cole, Caleb S. Dennis, Satiah N. Doty, Lily A. Douglas, Hudson S. Ebright, Payton G. Everingham, Zane A. Finley, Abigail R. German, Norah L. Grossnickle, Mason A. Hatfield, William R. Hodgson, Bryce C. Johnson, Madeline M. Linville, Baylee R. Longmire, Isabella E. Lopez, Mason C. McKibben, Reid A. Nettrouer, KayLi J. Poucher, Jaxson P. Simpson, Gabriela G. Solache, Reese M. Steg, Kiah Strombeck, Carter J. Wolfe

B. Griffith, Hadley J. Lauck, Kaylynn J. Nolley, Kara M. Owens, Laila A. Rowe, Blaine S. Smith, Lincoln C. Stoller, Christian D. Stutzman, Ian A. Tayagua, Keagan L. Taylor, Cali A. Vanover Principal’s List

All A’s For Three Years

Third grade — Jayden Farmer and Kellen Mock

First grade — Aiden Peterson Kindergarten — Paige Cripps and Boston Wellington Presidential Academic Award

Fifth grade — Jaxson Thornsbearry, Jesse Miretti, Noxx White, Stella Mock, Wesley Morris, Bronson Allen, Brooklynn Heimann, Connor Savage, Jackson Clark, Angel Hochstetler

DESIGN A STOOL Isaiah Kasson won the recent Design a Stool contest at Wawasee Middle School. “Starry Night” by Van Gogh was his model.

Student artwork to be featured next school year

Text and Photos

A bulletin board is something that most students, parents and teachers view each day on their way to and from class and lunch.

For the past nine years at Wawasee Middle School, one bulletin board in the library and two bulletin boards just outside the library have been transformed into actual large bookmarks designed by students who won the annual library bookmark contest.

“This year, Ian Tayagua, Jack Bradford and Isaiah Kasson won the contest, and their bookmarks will be reproduced and cover the three bulletin boards. I will copy their bookmarks and pass them out at the beginning of school,” said Deb Connett, school librarian. Kasson designed a bookmark using the Milky Way Bar as inspiration for his bookmark “Read-A-Way: Enjoy a Galaxy of Books.” Tayagua designed a bookmark using Sour Patch Kids as inspiration to create his bookmark “Cool Reading Kids.” Bradford designed a bookmark using the 100 Grand Bar as his inspiration to create his bookmark “100 Pages: Rich Details and Crispy Characters.” In addition to the bookmark con-

JACK BRADFORD

test, Connett also offered a “Design a Stool” contest for any interested student to enter. “I received 10 stools that had been in storage at school. I painted them light mint green and put out a notice for students to submit an original design of a book cover or an abstract design. Kasson won the contest and is now painting his winning design on a stool.”

Kasson is in the sixth grade. “I saw the contest advertised in the library and decided to enter. I grew up drawing and painting with my grandmother. The stool is my interpretation of Vincent Van Gogh’s 1889 painting ‘Starry Night.’ I first saw the painting on a poster in my second-grade classroom.”

“My mom thought it was cool that I won the contest,” said Kasson.

Sixth grade — Morgan R. Beer, Keagan G. Gardner, Thomas

Eighth Grade — Addison A. Abel, Hadley M. Allen, Finley M. Brady, Winston Farrington, Madelynn J. Fedder, Leah G. Hurst, Alexis J. Katzer, Jadyn S. Klenke, Raily Klinefelter, Kaitlyn N. Large, Carson N. Scherer

All A For Two Years

Eighth Grade — Mari J. Bon-

trager, Elizabeth G. Iden, Jaiden C. Jones, Francine M. Levinson, Katelyn A. Plikerd, Emily D. Ringler, Jack D. Shoemaker, Chloe M. Smeltzer, Luke E. Thompson All A This Year

Eighth Grade — Elijah B. Albright, Aidan R. Beer, Kenlee Grady, Steven C. Hackleman, Richard J. Mathew IV, Isabella G. Shideler, Zaiyla B. Shortill, Tyler L. Vazquez

All A For Two Years

Seventh Grade — Joy I. Bucher, Rhett M. Bucher, Ava Calhoon, Jacksen M. Cole, Adrian M. Dershem, Satiah N. Doty, Lily A.

Douglas, Payton G. Everingham, John E. Gall, William R. Hodgson, Baylee R. Longmire, Aisling E. Nordin, Jude A. Rhodes, Sydney E. Willard, Carter J. Wolfe, Addison Worrell

All A This Year

Sixth Grade — Katelyn J. Abel, Tucker D. Beer, Carter W. Edgar, Keagan G. Gardner, Emma G. Hunt, Emma Katzer, Jordan M. McKinzie, Avery N. Reidenbach, Kendall M. Scheeren, Adam J. Schmucker, Lincoln C. Stoller, Christian D. Stutzman, Olivia R. Wake, Lillyana M. Weisser, Genevieve D. Zachary.

Milford Elementary announces Book Boogie grand prize winners

The Book Boogie grand prize winners were announced at Milford Elementary School’s awards ceremony Thursday, May 23. First and second place grand prizes were awarded to the students with the most pages read by grade level.

In the kindergarten through second grade category, first place went to Imilia Gonzalez with 13,368 pages read and second place to Bailey Casey with 10,115 pages read.

These winners received a Book Boogie Top Reader brag tag, handpainted bookmark, $25 Barnes & Noble gift card, a Smithsonian

Our World and History book, a Big Book of Search & Find, a Good Night Little Blue Truck book, the How To Catch storybook collection, a Tops & Bottoms book, an original Squishmallow, Lego 668 piece Police Station City set with Road Plates or the Lego Police Mobile Crime Lab, a Halo Premium Inline Scooter and a 4-wheel drive radio-controlled steel vehicle.

In the third to fifth grade category, first place was Harrison Lehman with 36,032 pages read and in second place was Brie Tusing with 32,979 pages read.

These winners received a Book Boogie Top Reader brag tag, handpainted bookmark, $25 Barnes & Noble gift card, National Geographic Kids 5,000 Facts book, Na-

tional Geographic Kids Almanac, either the Illustrated Complete Jane Austen novel set or the Illustrated Complete Charles Dickens novel set, three additional books, an original Squishmallow, and a Jetson Plasma X Hoverboard.

Barnes & Noble gift cards for $25 were given out to kids who participated in the Book Boogie every month this year. These winners were Bailey Casey, Levi Savage, Sophia Arndt, Matilda Bontrager, Logan Castro, Payton Scheeren, Harrison Lehman, Zeke Savage, Brie Tusing, Emeline Baut and Marin Szynal.

The staff member with the most pages read was Natalie Bolton, who read 24,642 pages. She received three books, a knit blanket, a $25 Starbucks gift card, $25 Barnes & Noble Gift card and a $250 Amazon gift card. First grade teacher Melissa Possell received $25 gift cards to Amazon and Barnes & Noble for having the class with the most Book Boogie participants.

The total number of pages read at Milford Elementary this year was 663,844, beating their goal of half a million pages. Because of this, each student who participated in the Book Boogie at some point this year received a reading brag tag, a cable bracelet and a certificate with their name and the number of pages they read. Prizes were also given away to six students from a random drawing.

Wawasee Middle School announces honor roll

Wawasee Middle School has announced the honor roll for the last semester of the school year.

All A Honor Roll

Eighth grade — Addison A. Abel, Hadley M. Allen, Aidan R. Beer, Mari J. Bontrager, Jack R. Bradford, Finley M. Brady, Jordyn A. Cabeen, Winston Farrington, Madelynn J. Fedder, Kenlee Grady, Leah G. Hurst, Jaiden C. Jones, Alexis J. Katzer, Joshua L. Kelley, Jadyn S. Klenke, Raily Klinefelter, Kaitlyn N. Large, Francine M. Levinson, Colten J. Lortie, Katelyn A. Plikerd, Emily D. Ringler, Carson N. Scherer, Jack D. Shoemaker, Zaiyla B. Shortill, Chloe M. Smeltzer, Hayden K. Stanley,Luke E. Thompson and Tyler L. Vazquez.

Seventh grade — Liberty J. Adams, Catalina M. Aguilar, Aaliyah J. Allen, Addison M. Barger, Oliver S. Boesenberg, Joy I. Bucher, Rhett M. Bucher, Ava A. Calhoon, Jacksen M. Cole, Satiah N. Doty, Lily A. Douglas, Payton G. Everingham, Audrey J. Fitzsimmons, Norah L. Grossnickle, William R. Hodgson, Sophie E. Hunter, Abigail J. Leh-

man, Baylee R. Longmire, Paul J. Marion, Bennett J. Mckenzie, Adriana S. Michael, Aisling E. Nordin, Vincenzo C. Piersall, Jude A. Rhodes, Elizabeth A. Schmucker, Samuel A. Schwartz, Gabriela G. Solache, Kiah Strombeck, Mallory C. Szynal, Jaclyn Trowbridge, Zoey Van Hawk, Sydney E. Willard, Carter J. Wolfe, Addison Worrell. Sixth grade — Katelyn J. Abel, Katelyn J. Abel, Thomas B. Griffith, Emma G. Hunt, Claire E. Jagger, Emma Katzer, Jordan M. McKinzie, Kaylynn J. Nolley, Kendall M. Scheeren, Adam J. Schmucker, Lincoln C. Stoller, Christian D. Stutzman, Olivia R. Wake, Lillyana M. Weisser, Vaniah Wilson and Genevieve D. Zachary. A/B Honor Roll Eighth grade — Elijah B. Albright, Elizabeth G. Anderson, Aidyn J. Archer, Elise C. Berkeypile, Kellen T. Bolton, Annaleigh P. Bowling, Mia M. Bradley, Makenzie J. Davis, Jamisen R. Dixon, Bailyn L. Dobbelaere-Likens, Jacob Farber, Christopher R. Francis, Memphis J. Freiburger, Abigail

R. Gross, Steven C. Hackleman, Scarlett J. Hardy, Mark D. Haynes, Elizabeth A. Herman, Elizabeth G. Iden, Adyson L. Jones, Kayden R. Ladig, Annabelle J. Malstaff, Richard J. Mathew IV, Luke R. Nettrouer, Hailey J. Panelli, Maisie L. Schafer, Hunter M. Siri, Candice A. Stoffel, Marin Wagoner, Gauge T. Wallace, Audra M. Weaver, Steven J. Woods Jr. and Brady D. Zartman. Seventh grade — Millian E. Alvarez, Christopher D. Bowers, Brody E. Bradford, Jewlini N. Brennaman, Sophia L. Coday, Oliver F. Compton, Preston J. Coy, Caleb S. Dennis, Adrian M. Dershem, Londen E. Dilley, Hudson S. Ebright, Zane A. Finley, John E. Gall, Abigail R. German, Mason A. Hatfield, Jackson C. Hensel, Ava M. Hettinger, Dru W. Hough, Bryce C. Johnson, Jeremiah R. Jones, Chance M. Laraway, Madeline M. Linville, Isabella E. Lopez, Alaina S. McDonald, Khloe L. McIntire, Mason C. Mckibben, Ruby A. Mock, Delanie S. Morris, Reid A. Nettrouer, KayLi J. Poucher,

Brieanne I. Powers, Faith R. Sapp, Jaxson P. Simpson, Reese M. Steg, Mae E. Steinwedel, Elizabeth L. Sullivan, Vivian L. Taylor, Tatum Thorn, Mylah A. Vu, Emerie Walker and Audrey L. Wells. Sixth grade — Dasha J. Anacleto, Jaxon Bainter, Jenna M. Beer, Morgan R. Beer, Rowan J. Bontrager, Layla Brown, Adam B. Chilcutt, Kaleigh A. Corn, Omara E. Ervin, Eland R. Fawley, Keagan G. Gardner, Reed A. Heil, Lainey R. Jacobs, Lincoln J. Kaiser, Jaxon S. Kuhn, Hadley J. Lauck, Zephyr J. Losee, Lexi R. Mahns, Sherymth M. Mancia Caceres, Landon R. Marsh, Landry F. McDonald, Megan D. Menzie, Clayton W. Miller, Kara M. Owens, Morgan E. Rater, Avery N. Reidenbach, Trevor M. Roberts, Aaron J. Schmucker, Scarlett G. Sibery, Blaine S. Smith, Taylor M. Stephens, Emily L. Stookey, Sadie

Wawasee track ends year in regionals

The sprinting events had been a strength of the Wawasee boys track and field team all season as a few athletes were optimistic about getting out of the regional and advancing to state. Thursday, May 23, at the Goshen regional, the optimism turned into the conclusion of the track season. The Warriors were unable to qualify for the finals in three individual events and the two relay teams did not advance either.

Coach Chase Pinion could still see some positives going forward despite the results from the regional.

“We are excited for the direction the team is heading, and thank our seniors for laying the foundation of the future of our program,” Pinion said. “We will forever remember the stories and events of this season and look forward to new adventures in 2025.”

The 4x100 relay team of seniors Derek Bontrager, Hunter Tinker and Lucas Linder and junior Bradyn Pike, were seeded fourth in the event with a promising position to earn a top three spot needed to automatically advance. The Warriors finished ninth at a time of 43.18 seconds. The time virtually matched their seed time of 43.12 from sectionals, but five

schools jumped ahead of the Warriors.

Linder, who will run at Bethel University next year, was seeded fifth in the 200. In the regionals he was not able to qualify out of his heat and finished 10th at 22.98.

The 4x800 relay team of junior Hunter Allen, freshman Ivan Waikel, senior Senate Shaw and junior Quentin Taylor were tenth at a time of 8:20.71. The mark was over four seconds faster than their sectional time.

Bontrager ran in the 110 hurdles one last time for Wawasee and was 13th at a time of 16.10.

Pike represented Wawasee in the 100 meter dash and was 13th also at a time of 11.43.

Wednesday, May 22.

Kaleb Salazar signs with Manchester

Text and Photos

A state finalist wrestler, Kaleb Salazar will participate in his favorite sport in college. Salazar signed with Manchester University, Wednesday, May 22, in front of family and his teammates.

A senior on both the wrestling and baseball teams, Salazar was surrounded by members of both programs.

“It means a lot,” Salazar said. “It shows they’ll be here for me on and off the mat. They’ll be here for me after high school. Wrestling was a big part of my high school career but it’s also the friendships that made it a lot more fun. That’s what helped me get through wrestling and baseball.”

To say his family has been an influence on Salazar’s athletic tenure at Wawasee would be an understatement. His father, Joe Salazar, is the head coach for the baseball team. Jamie Salazar, his uncle, is the head coach of the wrestling team. His older brother, Kameron Salazar, is currently

playing college baseball at Marian University.

Given the family pedigree, Salazar wanted to be pushed by his coaches and not protected.

Maxwelton Ladies League results

Roundup

Boys Golf

April 23 —

“You can either take it two ways. I take it as they will push me to where I can be the best on the team. Or you can take the easy way and get everything handed to you. I take the first option. I like being a hard worker.”

The hard work paid off in wrestling the most where Salazar won his weight class at the sectional meet all four years of high school. He won the Northern Lakes Conference three times plus two regional titles. For his senior year, Salazar qualified for the state finals for a second time in his high school career.

Despite all the accolades on the mat, the drive for more keeps Salazar hungry to do even better in college.

“It felt good when I won, but I knew the job wasn’t finished though,” Salazar said. “Going into college, trying to work better. Trying to be a national champion. That’s what I’m hoping.”

Salazar says he picked Manchester over other offers from schools in the Great Lakes region, including Trine University and Ashland University.

“When I went on that visit, it felt pretty nice,” Salazar said on Manchester. “The coaches were respectful and I kind of liked how they talked.”

Salazar has the second most hits on the baseball team and tied for third in runs. He has been dealing with a high ankle sprain in the last few weeks of the regular season but never gave the idea of sitting out much thought and stayed on the field.

“Been playing through that. I would rather be there for my team in my senior year,” Salazar said.

Poor start dooms Warriors in sectional semifinal

Expectations of winning a sectional title for the Wawasee Warrior baseball team turned into a 6-4 defeat to underdog West Noble Saturday, May 25. The Chargers entered sectionals with just four wins, but West Noble showed once again how records mean little in sectionals. West Noble scored six runs in the first two innings and would go on to end the season for Wawasee.

It was the final game for Wawasee’s talented senior class, including Ty Brooks. Brooks pitched the final innings of the contest where he did not allow a run and struck out nine batters.

“It’s rough when you put yourself in a hole,” Brooks said. “Kind of looked over this team, not going to lie. Can’t do that when it’s this time of year. Could have been their last game too so you knew they were going to show up. We didn’t come to show up the first two innings and it showed obviously. Hard to get out of it down 6-2. Got to show up every play, every pitch and we didn’t do that early in he game and that killed us.”

Brooks began the game in the third inning as the team was hoping to save his pitch count for the sectional final with NorthWood. West Noble had other ideas, loading the bases in the first and second innings. Senior Kaleb Salazar earned the start and had two strike outs in the first inning to hold West Noble to just one run. In the second inning, Salazar was replaced after walking his fourth batter of the game and allowing three runs. Senior Ryan Menzie replaced Salazar with only one out in the inning down 3-2. West Noble would add three more runs to lead 6-2. In the third inning, once Brooks took the mound, a West Noble coach could be heard saying “That’s a sign of respect right there,” from

the dugout. When Brooks retired his first batter via strikeout, the Charger walked back to his dugout saying “He’s good.” With Brooks on the mound, Wawasee would cut into the West Noble lead with a run in the third and fifth innings to make the score 6-4.

“I trusted my stuff with all the hard work I put into it,” Brooks said. “Knowing that whatever I throw I had a chance of it being my best pitch and competing well against them.”

Wawasee left three runners stranded in both the third and sixth innings. With two outs and the bases loaded for Salazar in the sixth, Wawasee’s best chance to tie or take the lead came up empty. West Noble junior Brooks Ruisard found the zone for the third strike leading Salazar to walk back to the Wawasee dugout.

Junior Kane Dukes was the lone Warrior to get on base in the seventh inning. Menzie would be

the last out as his swing to center was caught to end the game and Wawasee’s season.

The Warriors would outhit the Chargers 9-6. West Noble would fall to NorthWood in the sectional final 13-0 in just four and a half innings Monday, May 27. West Noble (5-18) had just one hit in the loss. The Warriors end the year at 11-15, an eight game improvement from the 2023 season. Wawasee’s last sectional title came in 2022 where the Warriors won two straight sectionals after the 2020 season was canceled due to the pandemic. The loss to West Noble was the final game for Brooks, Menzie, Salazar and Hunter Fiedeke. Brooks will pitch for Indiana State University next year.

“It was a fun year,” Brooks said. “We won more games than last year but also didn’t come out on top. It’s a fun group of guys that we got to share a lot of memories with, that’s the most important part.”

2024 will be a regatta summer at the Wawasee Yacht Club

Summer sailing at the Wawasee Yacht Club has been a tradition since the club was founded in 1936 by a group of avid sailors from Fort Wayne. This year marks the 88th sailing season.

This summer will be a summer of regattas, starting with the E-Scow Regatta June 7-9 chaired by Frank Levinson. The I-Scow Nationals on Sept. 13-15, chaired by Andy Allen, bring sailors from many clubs to compete. The Sunfish Midwest Regionals Sept. 22-24 is a Sunfish Worlds Qualifier. Great sailing will be on display. Brad and Daphne Wagnon chair the event. The last event on the racing schedule is the popular Hoosier Lightning Regatta Sept. 28-29. The Hoosier has been held at the club for 71 years. Last year, 34 teams competed, making the Hoosier the world’s largest non-championship Lightning regatta for the second year running. Jeff and Donna Schmahl and Brad and Daphne Wagnon co-chair this event. The social season begins at 7 p.m. June 22 with the popular

Summer Kick-Off Party and open house. This event gives the community the chance to see the facilities and meet the membership. The Open Sail at 2 p.m.

10 YEARS AGO, MAY 28, 2014

Dave Koontz, director of Right to Life of North Central Indiana, shared the organization’s message during a pastor appreciation luncheon last Wednesday in North Webster. During the lunch, Koontz emphasized part of the organization’s purpose is to be a resource for churches in their ministries.

North Webster celebrated all those who have given their lives in the line of duty, and for those who continue to serve, with a parade and a cemetery service Memorial Day. Don Roulo was the guest speaker at the cemetery service. Singer Russ Chandler performed “Proud to Be an American” during the ceremony.

North Webster Elementary

School fifth- grade students of Dan Gause each gave a biography presentation recently as a culminating activity for the nonfiction unit. Zach Smith presented a biography report on President John F. Kennedy.

20 YEARS AGO, MAY 26, 2004

A team of youth and adults are working on plans for this year’s Senior High Institute, which will take place July 4-10 at Epworth Forest Conference Center, North Webster.

North Webster Elementary School fifth-graders, Austin Benzinger and Allison Angel, had fun with a modified version of a “Jeopardy” game created by Allison’s mom, Sandy Angel. Sandy made the game board to help the class study a history lesson.

Sally Johnson of North Webster was among area Ivy Tech State College students recently named to the 2004 Phi Theta Kappa All-Indiana Academic Team. Johnson is working toward an associate degree in computer information systems at the Warsaw campus. She plans to become a computer support technician.

30 YEARS AGO, MAY 25, 1994

Vickie Polise, daughter of Jim and Yvonne Polise, Portland, Maine, formerly of North Webster, has been named a Western Kentucky Topperette for the 1994-95 school year. As a 1993-94 Topperette, Polise performed at all university home basketball games and other university sports and social events. Polise will be a junior at Western Kentucky Uni-

versity. She is a 1992 graduate of Wawasee High School.

Deborah Polise, daughter of Jim and Yvonne Polise, Portland, Maine, formerly of North Webster, has graduated from TriState University, Angola. Polise received a bachelor’s of office administration degree. She is a 1989 graduate of Wawasee High School.

40 YEARS AGO, MAY 30, 1984

Phil Malott and Matt Wagoner, both of North Webster, have been sworn in as special-duty police officers for North Webster. Both officers will be assisting regular town police officers with duties during the summer and other specified times.

This is a full time position covering city, town and county meetings and events as we bring the broadest and most complete news coverage to our 400,000-500,000 weekly website visitors.

Candidate should be naturally curious, adept at asking probing questions to get to the heart of the story, able to meet firm deadlines, and a skilled storyteller.

Internet, social media, computer and camera knowledge and skills important.

Must live in or near Kosciusko County and must have a degree or on-the-job experience in writing, journalism, mass communications or a similar field.

This is a full time position with competitive wage and benefit package.

Position is based out of Warsaw.

If you have the skills, we have a home for you.

Mr. and Mrs. Donald Ferveda, North Webster, will celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary at an open house June 3 at North Webster Church of God, where the couple married June 6, 1959. Lyle Haney, North Webster, was initiated into Ball State University’s new chapter of Beta Alpha Psi, national accounting honorary. He is a 1980 Wawasee High School graduate.

50 YEARS AGO, MAY 29, 1974

Rev. A.C. Underwood was guest speaker for the May 20 meeting of Lakeland Kiwanis Club. He showed pictures of his trip through Egypt and Greece, including the pyramids, sphinx, Parthenon, ancient tombs and the Nile River. Clifford Terry was presented with an international certificate for his goodwill travels among other nations and Kiwanis Club.

Officers for the coming year were installed during the meeting of Efficient Homemakers Home Extension Club. They are: Mrs. Paul Baugher, president; Mrs. James Kline, vice president; Mrs. George Slinger, secretary; Hannah Payne, treasurer. Mrs. Kline read the meditation. Mrs. Jerry Minton gave the health and safety report. Mrs. Vernon Zurcher was accepted as a new member. It happened in Milford ... 20 years ago

Runyan received Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal

10 YEARS AGO, MAY 28, 2014 Milford Lions Club member Steve Haab assisted Gavin Timmons with a pony ride Saturday at Milford Fest. The festival, sponsored by the Milford Lions Club, included a car show, carnival rides, cutie pageant and music.

Milford Fest had a car, truck and motorcycle show Saturday. This year’s car show had 18 categories. Best in Show was awarded to Marvin Galbreath for his 1937 Chevy. People’s Choice award was given to Don Bice Jr. for his 2005 Harley-Davidson.

Darin and Carol (Chupp) Miller, Milford, are the parents of a son, Makiah Andre, born at 12:12 p.m. May 23, 2014. He weighed 8 pounds, 13 ounces and was 20 inches long.

20 YEARS AGO, MAY 26, 2004 Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kristy J. Runyan, daughter of Sherry L. and Walter B. Runyan of Milford, recently received the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal. The medal recognizes the service member’s honest and faithful service during a three-year period. To earn it, Runyan achieved and maintained a satisfactory level of performance and an unblemished conduct record for the entire period.

The 2004 Michiana Family Business of the Year Award winners, presented by the Goshen Continued on page 5-B

It happened in Syracuse ... 20 years ago

Jeremiah Mench tells of time in Iraq

10 YEARS AGO, MAY 28, 2014

This year there were 272 students at Black Hawk College East Campus who applied for degrees and certificates for the 2013-14 academic year in Illinois. Commencement ceremonies were held May 16, at the Kewanee National Guard Armory. Agatha Dumford, Syracuse, is a spring 2014 graduate. Goshen College recently recognized 260 undergraduate students for excellence in academics on the 2013-14 spring semester dean’s list. The dean’s list includes students earning at least a 3.75 GPA, while completing at least 12 hours of course work for a letter grade. From Syracuse, Darcy VanDiepenbos made the spring semester dean’s list.

20 YEARS AGO, MAY 26, 2004

Jeremiah Mench, Syracuse, proudly served his country, not once, but twice. Mench was called to active duty and “landed” in Iraq on Feb. 20, 2003, and participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He returned to the states on Feb. 13, 2004. He was officially demobilized at Camp Atterbury and back to Title 10 (off active duty) on Feb. 20, 2004.

The Knights of Columbus Francis Pitka Council 6323 of Syracuse made a contribution to Lifeline Ministries for $750. The Knights held a special Bingo for Lifeline. Greg Leksich and Jeff Goralczyk presented the check on behalf of the Knights and Rebecca Sponseller and Rachel Everts accepted on behalf of Lifeline.

30 YEARS AGO, MAY 25, 1994

Marine Pfc. Jarrod L. Peace, son of Tim T. Peace and Luann Cox, both of Syracuse, recently graduated from the Marine Corps Basic Combat Engineer Course. During the course, students are taught the fundamentals of engineering support for combat units. Peace joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1993. Volunteers were celebrated by the Teen Parents Succeeding board

of directors Sunday at Syracuse’s Lakeside Park. Jackie Plikerd, TPS director, gave each volunteer a certificate of appreciation. Those volunteers who were present were Janet Gardner, Bessie Grimes, Donna Hibschman, Margaret Sanders, Louise Lowe, Marjorie Cauffman, Audrie Raftiller, Rachael Bales, Pat Orbik, Donna Wolfe, Roberta Pittman, David all, Kathy Plikerd and Kenda Kapaku.

40 YEARS AGO, MAY 30, 1984

Bill Xanders was a little taken aback Friday morning when his table friends at the Syracuse Cafe sang “Happy Birthday” to him as others joined in. Bill, a member of the Syracuse High School graduating class of 1935, was 67 years of age but looks much younger, He covered his face with his hands, thus hiding a slight blush. Tim Darr, well known Syracuse World War II veteran and resident of 424 Dolan Drive, Syracuse, has placed his name in contention for the post of State Sergeant-at-Arms. Darr has held a number of offices in the American Legion, including Commander of Post 223, Syracuse, 1950-51; Commander of the Kosciusko County council, 1978; and Commander of the Second District, 1980-81.

50 YEARS AGO, MAY 29, 1974

Roger Korenstra has won a major letter in the Anderson college wrestling program for 1973-74. Competing in the 190-pound class, Korenstra is a senior majoring in business administration. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Francis Korenstra, of Syracuse. The Hoosier squad won the Hoosier-Buckeye Conference title for a second time with Korenstra finishing third in the league tournament. Approximately 100 persons were in attendance for the annual Syracuse alumni association event held in the old gym of the Syracuse school. Miss Violette O’Delle, the oldest living graduate was in attendance for her 75th anniversary.

Runyan received Marine

Continued from page 4-B

College Family Business Program, were announced during an award ceremony held May 19. The top honorees were chosen among an excellent group of family owned firms for their innovation, entrepreneurship, commitment and heart. Maple Leaf Farms was named the winner of the large firm category.

30 YEARS AGO, MAY 25, 1994

Milford resident John Royce stopped in at The Mail-Journal’s main office Tuesday with a Roll of Honor plaque from Hasting Island Chapel United Methodist Church. Named on the plaque are men who served in both World War I and World War II armed forces. Of all the men, three are living today.

One local student is among 15 Goshen College students spending their spring term in Germany. Lorraine K. Schmucker, the daughter of Homer and Karen Schmucker, Milford, is a sophomore majoring in natural science. She is a 1992 graduate of Bethany Christian High School.

40 YEARS AGO, MAY 30, 1984

Mr. and Mrs. John Method of Milford celebrated their 50th anniversary with a family dinner at Nappanee. The couple was married by Rev. Noah McCoy in the UB parsonage at Fort Wayne on May 18, 1934. Mrs. Method is the former Virginia Goshert of Warsaw.

Kathryn Dian Bice, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Donald D. Bice, Sr., of Milford, was one of 455 graduating seniors at Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame, who participated in the college’s 137th commencement exercises May 19. Miss Bice received a bachelor of science degree in nursing.

50 YEARS AGO, MAY 29, 1974

SN Ricky A. Berkey, son of Mr. and Mrs. William J. Berkey of r 1 Milford, graduated from recruit training at the naval training center, Great Lakes, Ill. He is now go-

STEUBY’S OPENS — The Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting at Steuby’s in Leesburg Wednesday, May 22. In the front row are Chamber Director Rob Parker, Heather Lardino, Amber Lafollette, Meghan Carpenter, Sasha Shilling, Kelly Corn, owners Shawnee and Steuart Wysong, Nicole Jones, Grace Gibbs, Lany Saul,

Chamber holds ribbon cutting at Steuby’s in Leesburg

The Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting at Steuby’s in Leesburg Wednesday, May 22.

The former Stacy’s Restaurant and Family Dining in Leesburg is now Steuby’s.

Shawnee Wysong and her hus-

band, Steuart, purchased the Leesburg business. Its new moniker contains part of Steuart Wysong’s name. It opened Feb. 7. Shawnee said the couple originally purchased Stacy’s to move their insurance business, Wysong Insurance Shoppe, into the building. However, after hearing how people still wanted it to be a restaurant, the Wysongs opted to keep it as an eatery. The restaurant is “very community oriented,” said Shawnee. The menu includes “comfort food” with monthly specials, such as prime rib and broasted chicken. Pizza and fish are also on the menu along with appetizers and desserts. There is a bar and it serves cocktails, beer and sangria, with a section of the restaurant still allotted for family

Jill and Jennifer’s Salon named as NWTT Chamber May Member of the Month

Sharleen Ann Kaiser, 309 S. Main, Milford, was awarded the degree of bachelor of science at the 100th annual commencement of Valparaiso university on Sunday, May 19.

Marine private Mark S. Dean, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jack E. Dean of r 2 Milford, has reported for duty at the Marine corps base at Camp LeJeune, N.C.

WHEATLEY PROMOTED

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

Wheatley joined CTB in 2018 as product development engineer for Chore-Time’s sister company, PigTek, and most recently held the position of senior product engineer. He earned his bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering from Purdue University, West Lafayette. He is a native of Terre Haute and currently resides in Nappanee. Photo provided. ing through specialty training in electronics.

The North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber recently has announced Jill and Jennifer’s Salon as the May Member of the Month. Jill and Jennifer’s Salon is a full-service hair salon with several additional services, including facial waxing, nails, tanning and pop-up Botox parties. Styl-

ists Jill Baker, Jennifer Crosley and Haley Angel-Gilbert are located in the heart of North Webster. Baker and Crosley have been in business together for over 35 successful years and welcomed Angel-Gilbert’s “Touched By An Angel” as a partner in 2019. Most recently, they have added

general manager; Adam Kern, Socks Marina Webster technician; Hunter Roberts, Socks Marina Webster technician; Jason Bogart, Socks Marina Barbee manager; Angie Robbins, Ruoff Mortgage; Rita Davis, Remax Partners; Martha Stoeling, Syracuse Museum; Jeannie Coverstone, Socks Marina Webster

Jeanetta Slabaugh, Horizon Bank; and Melody Cusik, Remax Partners. Photo provided by SWCC.

Zali Aesthetics to their team, adding additional services in helping clients achieve the look they desire.

“Jill and Jennifer’s Salon is recognized as Member of the Month for their ongoing dedication to serving our community. Jill, Jennifer and Haley are valuable contributors to the

Chamber’s annual tree lighting festivities by organizing the light-up ATV and Jeep parade, which benefits the North Webster Food Pantry,” said NWTCC President Emily Shipley. “Their continued involvement and volunteerism with the Mermaid Festival and Dixie Days benefits residents and visitors alike.”

SWCC announces Socks Marina Webster as May Member of the Month

The Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce has announced Socks Marina Webster as the Member of the Month for May. Socks Marina Webster is owned by Ryan Coverstone and his parents, Dino and Jeannie Coverstone. The business was first owned by Ryan’s grandparent’s in the early 70s and 80s. The Coverstone family bought the business back into the family in 2008. Socks Marina Webster is a full-service, year-round facility that offers offseason storage, new and used boats, accessory sales and service including storage, repair and maintenance. Socks Marina Webster is running a ‘Repower’ special where customers can get rid of their old engine and replace it with a new four-stroke engine. The family-owned business is the only place in the area that sells Smoker Craft Aluminum fishing boats. For information about boat rentals for any lake in Kosciusko County, visit socksmarina.com. Socks Marina Webster is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

RAINY EVENING — Dozens of cars, trucks and motorcycles came to the Syracuse American Legion Riders’ Cruise-In Friday, May 24. Unfortunately, they all left as quickly as they arrived once a surprise storm blew into the area shortly after the 5 p.m. start time.

Organizers planned an evening of food, music and fun, but by 6 p.m., all that remained were a few cars and no people milling around the planned evening of family fun. Pictured is one of the few vehicles that remained later than most. Photo by Keith Knepp.

NOW OPEN — Zali Aesthetics held a ribbon cutting Saturday, May 25, to celebrate their new space at Jill and Jennifer’s Salon

Jill and Jennifer’s Salon partnering with Zali Aesthetics

Jill and Jennifer’s Salon of Styles, 225 N. Main St., D, North Webster, has partnered with Zali Aesthetics to offer a Botox clinic and medication assisted weight loss. Ali Ross-Fortier, NP-C, and her husband, Zach Fortier, DMD are Zali Aesthetics.The two wanted to be among the first to bring these services to the area. Ross-Fortier’s parents are clients of Jill and Jennifer’s Salon and mentioned Ross-Fortier and Fortier wanted to offer their services in the lakes area and were looking for a space. Ross-Fortier has always had a passion for health. When she was in eighth grade she wrote an article about a local fast food restaurant not having small fries available to

Church

order. Only medium or large fries could be ordered. She submitted her article to The Mail-Journal which published her piece.

Ross-Fortier grew up in the area and knew Jill Baker and Jennifer Crosley. As a dentist, Fortier knows about the head and face and believes if someone is going to offer Botox, it should be someone knowledgeable. For example, as a dentist, he can offer a dental block to numb the area round the mouth before injecting the Botox, since that part of the face is very sensitive. The couple have already started seeing clients for Botox and fillers. They plan to see clients for weight loss services in June. Ross-Fortier said she believes there is a need for medication assisted weight loss services in the area. Ross-Fortier is working with Dr. Elizabeth Holling-

sworth, a family practice physician with 5 years experience, in medication based weight loss.

“We’re trying to look at it as a whole,” she said. “We’re offering nutrition and exercise plan.” She explained the medication is simply a kick start while the client works on improving their overall lifestyle.

Weight loss clients will also have the opportunity to have accountability allies, where a mentor will check in with them at specific times, such as once a week, to see how they are doing and offer support.

Appointments are available Mondays and Wednesdays through Saturday. Call (260) 263-0111 to make an appointment or for more information or visit zaliaesthetics. com.

Do this in remembrance of me

You wouldn’t know it to look at me now, but I was not especially patriotic as a young Hoosier. I went to public school and learned the mechanics of patriotism: when to stand, how to be quiet, how to say the Pledge of Allegiance with my hand over my heart.

I played trumpet in the school band, so I marched in parades and knew all the patriotic songs. I even sang the Star Spangled Banner as part of a duet at the homecoming football game my senior year. But back then, Memorial Day was just the start of summer and Veterans Day was just an extra day sometime before Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Things changed when I joined the U.S. Army and began thinking about the possibility of giving my life in defense of my country. Ironically, it was in contemplating death that I began to discover life, the importance of self-sacrifice and the many reasons for honoring those who gave everything for freedom — for my freedom. Along with my awakening patriotic perspective, other memorials began to find meaning beyond

a grade in U.S. history class as well: battle ribbons on unit flags, the Soldiers and Sailors monument in Indianapolis, the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C., Taps in the evening and rows upon rows of white tombstones at Arlington Cemetery. All found tear-jerking, throat-catching significance.

These various mnemonic devices told a noble story about liberty, hope, aspiration, risk and life. They became part of my story, my life and my people. More accurately, I was becoming part of their story. I was beginning to understand that although I was just one kid from a small town in Indiana, because of those who had given their lives, my life could have purpose, meaning and a mission.

Memorial Days, parades, ceremonies, and bugles come and go like little cups of grape juice and bits of broken bread. The point of each is to help us remember and then reorient; remember the big story and then reorient our own story.

When we rush through the ritual or speed past the memorial in an effort to get on with our regularly-scheduled pursuits of happiness, we are only slightly better off than those who forget or those whose pursuits actively despise the ones who died for their freedom.

Make no mistake, the heroes who gave their lives for our freedom want us to enjoy that freedom and pursue that happiness.

From Moses to Jesus, from Patrick Henry to 2Lt Harry J. Michael, they would all love to join you on the lake or at a barbecue. (Moses would probably want a lamb shish kabob.)

With them in your awareness, you can enjoy a deeper happiness and an appreciation of how it all fits into the beautiful story of redemption and freedom, which is still being told every year and in every generation.

“No greater love has anyone than this; that one lays down his life for a friend” (John 15:13).

E F

EMBERS OF the Syra cuse-Wawasee Rotary Club stopped by The Papers in Milford for a tour of the facility. It was conducted Ron Baumgartner. They had a chance to learn about the many aspects that go into putting together and printing a newspaper.

Pictured above, in the front row from left, are Jim Layne, Jeremy Doerr, Sherman Goldenberg, Dr. Richard Brungardt, Alan Tehan, Erick Leffler, Bob Smith, Sara Prichard, Baumgartner, Susan Stump and Steve Mead ows. Standing on the steps are Barry Hudson and Cameron Plew.

H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

day and Saturdays throughout the summer, weather permitting.

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the front desk at the Oakwood. The boat leaves the dock promptly and the cruise is about an hour long. The boat has received new paint and a new awning and is ready to go from the Pier & Backporch Dock. —o—

THE SYRACUSE American Legion Auxiliary will serve breakfast from 8-11 a.m. Sunday, June 2. The public is invited to come to the Legion, 1008 S. Huntington St., Syracuse, for their morning meal.

THE FIRST North Webster Ski Bees show and sign-up day is Saturday, June 15. Sign up and practice is at 9 a.m. and the show is at 6 p.m. at the North Webster Town Park, near The Dixie. For more information, visit websterskibees.com.

SUMMER MAY have just started, but Lakeland Youth Center is already looking to the fall. Registration for Fall Soccer, for kids in third through fifth grades. Registration deadline is Aug. 25 with the first games starting Sept. 7.

Registration for NFL Flag Football for kids in kindergarten through 6th grade is also open and closes on Aug. 25 with the first games starting Sept. 7.

SCOTT SCHAFFER will be bringing his parakeet show to the Milford Public Library at 2 p.m. Thursday, June 13. He has raised parakeet budgie birds for more than two decades, including breeding his own for the past six years. He’s done many programs throughout the area. He will be educating the audience on how they are raised during this free show. The library is located at 101 N. Main St., Milford. —o—

KUDOS GO out to the Syracuse-Wawasee Garden Club and Wawasee Community Bible Church for assisting the Syracuse Parks and Recreation Department in sprucing up the parks for the summer season. The Garden Club has been planting flowers in the town’s parks for 60 years!

—o—

THE LAKELAND Kiwanis Club was putting up flags last Wednesday, May 22, for Memorial Day. The club puts up more than 100 flags every year along SR 13 in North Webster. The flags will fly until Veterans Day, Nov. 11. Shown are Mark Roberts, a Kiwanis Club member, and volunteer Russ Cripps.

—o—

THE SYRACUSE-WAWASEE Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a Color Run to be held Saturday, June 29, at South Shore Village, 10601 N. SR 13, Syracuse. You can choose between a 5K or 1 mile walk/run.

Bring the family and your friends out for this kid-friendly event. Register at swchamber.com. The fee for pre-registration is $30, or $35 on the day of the event. Registration on race day begins at 8 a.m. with the run beginning at 9 a.m. —o—

ON JUNE 21, as part of Food Truck Friday and in conjunction with the “Milford In Motion” theme, Milford Kiwanis will be giving away 18 bicycle helmets. Sign up that night. The drawing will be held at the end of the evening. Bicycle safety information also will be available.

MARTHA STOELTING, formerly The Mail-Journal’s very own Cruisin’ ‘Cuse writer, will be back as the narrator on the Oakwood Resort’s Tour Boat. Public cruises will be held at 7 p.m. Fri-

THE NORTH Webster Community Center will host a romp and roll camp June 4-6. There will be morning and evening classes for toddlers, age 1-3, and preschool children, ages 3-5. The cost is $25 per child. For more information or to register, visit nwcommunitycenter.org.

The center will also host Ninja Warrior Kids Camp July 9-11. There will be morning and evening classes for kids age 3-12, with different times for each age group. The cost is $30 per child. Register online or call (574) 834-1600. —o—

SUMMER READING at the Syracuse Public Library begins June 1. The children’s department will hold an all-ages kick-off party at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 5, featuring Hedgehog Hannah.

Thanks to the Friends of the Syracuse Public Library, SPL will use Beanstalk this year to track summer reading. Families can download the app and join the Syracuse Public Library community. Need help? The library staff can help patrons sign up and navigate the app. —o—

PURDUE EXTENSION Kosciusko County Health and Human Science Educator Shannon Shepherd will be presenting “Be Heart Smart” in North Webster in June. Lessons will take place from 10:30-11:30 a.m. on Mondays, June 3-24 at the North Webster Public Library, 110 E. North St. The program is a four-part, lecture-based program for individuals who want to learn more about preventing heart disease by making heart-healthy lifestyle changes. It will teach participants how to monitor risk factors for heart disease and how to make simple changes in their daily routine, which can improve their heart health.

CHRISTI ZIEBARTH, art teacher at Wawasee High School, is on a mission. She is searching for funky or interesting chairs to join her classroom. She currently has one, a bright yellow chair which was recently dragged to Lake Wawasee for the Indiana Plein Air Paint Out event held during the Oakwood Fine Arts Show. If you wandered over to the chapel to see the plain air painters there, you may have noticed it.

Ziebarth claims her students do their best work in that funky yellow chair because it is “super comfortable.” She’s wondering what a few more different chairs will do to the atmosphere of her classroom, not to mention her students creativity.

So, if you have a chair you think is funky and comfortable and could inspire a young person’s creativity, send her an email at cziebarth@wawasee. k12.in.us. —o—

WARRIOR RADIO WRWT 93.7 FM is providing a link for Wawasee High School’s 56th annual commencement exercises. It will be broadcast live on its YouTube channel. Commencement will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 2. To watch go to YouTube.com/CPGTV. —o— THE JUNE circuit schedule for MOVEWawasee has been announced. Classes will meet at 7 a.m. June 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25 and 27, at Wawasee Community Bible Church, 2035 E. 1300 N, Milford.

All abilities are welcome. Participants can work at their own level and pace. The classes are free, but donations are welcome. —o— LIONS KARATE promoted three students to new black belt ranks. Simone Bissontz earned her first-degree black belt. Nathan Bissontz earned his

Wawasee High SchoolGraduation

Commencement: Sunday, June 2 • 2 p.m. at Wawasee Gymasium

2024 WAWASEE GRADUATES

2024 WAWASEE GRADUATES

2024 WAWASEE GRADUATES

NOT PICTURED

Greyson Tharp

Kailyn Watkins

Joscelyn West Noah