The Mail-Journal - July 17, 2024

By DEB PATTERSON Editor-In-Chief

County

By DAVID SLONE Times-Union

on

commissioners question providing nonprofits with funding

The future of Kosciusko County government providing funding to local nonprofit organizations is uncertain.

After some discussion Tuesday, July 16, on the appropriateness of the county giving taxpayer dollars to nonprofits, the Kosciusko County Commissioners approved recommending to the county council that seven nonprofits receive the

same amount of funds in 2025 as they did in 2024. An eighth nonprofit – Safe Harbor Child Advocacy Center — that requested funding ($20,000) for the first time will not be granted any dollars. In 2024, Kosciusko County

4-H Council was approved for $46,589.91 from the county; Cardinal Services, $108,129; Stillwater Hospice, $50,000; Kosciusko County Historical Society, $23,230; Beaman Home, $33,425; Kosciusko County Senior Services,

North Webster Town Council vacates right of way

By KEITH KNEPP Staff Writer

In an expected move, the North Webster Town Council approved the vacation of a public right of way in the parking lot of the North Webster Community Center. This paves the way, literally, for the building of outdoor pickleball and basketball courts in part of the parking lot behind the NWCC. The new athletic facilities are being funded through a $242,500 donation given to the NWCC by the Shoop Sports and Youth Foundation in memory of Jon Sroufe, who was active in both organizations and in the town of North Webster. The council also heard from Gwen Fuchs regarding the previously discussed “Jay Day” memorial celebration. During its April meeting, the council agreed to honor Jay Montalbano, a beloved UPS

delivery driver who died in March. A bench utilizing private funds will be dedicated in his honor and a proclamation declaring Wednesday, Aug. 28, Jay Montalbano Remembrance Day. A celebration and dedication of the bench will take place at 6:30 p.m. that day.

Council President Dan Thystrup

updated the council on the ongoing North Webster Trail project. He noted two bid proposals were submitted for the first stage of construction. Those proposals were forwarded to the Indiana Department of Transportation for review and approval. He hopes to have a response from INDOT by

the end of the week so that the project can continue to move forward. Thystrup noted Sept. 1 is the final deadline for all proposals to be finalized.

The next meeting of the council will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 20, inside the NWCC. The public is invited to attend.

Kip Tom present during Trump assassination attempt

By KEITH KNEPP Staff Writer and DAVID SLONE Times-Union

Ambassador Kip Tom, Leesburg, had a front row seat, literally, to the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump on Saturday, July 13. Tom served as the United States Ambassador to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture, and chief of the United States Mission to the UN Agencies in Rome, from 2019 to 2021. Tom was attending a campaign rally in Butler, Pa., when a shooter, later identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, opened fire from an elevated position. Secret Service agents assigned to protect Trump killed Crooks, but not before his bullets managed to graze Trump’s right ear, kill one of rally’s attendees and wound two others.

Prior to the assassination at-

tempt, Tom briefly met with the former President and presumptive 2024 Republican nominee for the White House.

Temperatures rose to around 95 degrees Saturday. Tom said everyone got in lines to go through security.

The former ambassador took his seat about 3 to 3:15 p.m. Saturday. His front-row seat was up by the podium. The program started at about 4 p.m. with a blessing from a reverend. There were four to five speakers after that.

“Following that, security detail came and got a few of us people who were planning to have meetings with the president, and took us back into his special area. We got up and went back there and met up with the president. Once we got done, they escorted us

back out and then just moments after that, the president walks out on the red carpet to the platform, waving and signaling to people,” Tom said.

$33,425; and St. Joe River Basin, $3,794, according to information provided at a previous commissioners meeting.

Commissioner Cary Groninger said, “A couple meetings ago, we heard from all the nonprofits in our community, trying to sort through what their requests were. I know this is something that I think all three of us up here have struggled with … whether or not it’s the county’s job to fund some of these nonprofits and what we should do and how we are being the stewards of taxpayer dollars that we receive.”

All the nonprofits on the list are

very good nonprofits that provide services to the community that are very important, Groninger said, “So I think we need to be careful about how we look at that, but in my opinion, I think we’re going to try to reduce the funding that we give to them.” He said there’s conversations that need to be had with the nonprofits “prior to doing it without notice.” He said they definitely wouldn’t be adding any additional nonprofits to the list of seven on their list. Commissioner Brad Jackson said, “I’ve always had that same theory that they’re all fantastic

During the meetings prior to Trump coming out on the stage, Tom said Trump was “highly charged, highly motivated. I think he enjoys rallies such as this, and this was no different than any in the past. It showed when he walked out on stage. He was highly charged again when he started giving his speech.”

Trump’s team put up a graph on the big screen about illegal migration into the United States.

“It was about the time that he turned his head to look at that and that’s when the first shot rang out,” Tom said.

Trump’s upper part of his right

Continued on page 2

County redevelopment commission agrees to invest in Leesburg Industrial Project

By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer

The Kosciusko County Redevelopment Commission has agreed to financially support a project which should bring three new industrial-use buildings to Leesburg.

At its meeting on Thursday, July 11, the council agreed to give Frank and Becky Levinson $250,000 generated from tax increment financing in the county.

The Levinsons would have to pay the money upfront and be reimbursed by the commission.

The couple is also seeking state Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative, or READI 2.0, funds to pay for the construction of the buildings.

When he appeared before the commission Thursday, Frank noted READI 2.0 monies are doled out to projects which also have a financial match from local government.

The project is at the former John Deere dealership, with three 12,000 square-foot buildings set to be constructed by SR 15 next to the Owens Fresh Meat Market building at 6287 SR 15. Frank said the couple bought the property 2 1/2 years ago.

“We now have several companies that are in there (including Owens),” he said. “We are out of space, so we’re looking to expand.”

He said the project would be “a small business industrial incubator.”

“The goal here is to really provide turn-key small bay industrial spaces within the county, which there’s a relative lack of,” said Frank. “I know that because when we went to go build we couldn’t really find any.”

He said the buildings will be divided up into “1,500- to 5,000-square-foot bays with offices, warehousing and some common space.”

Frank said the land is already zoned for industrial use, so the couple won’t be taking away farmland.

“Again the idea here is to take the 15 corridor, which is already fairly heavily trafficked, and to be able to build in some additional space there,” he said.

CR 1300N Project

The commission also heard an update from Crystal Welch on the CR 1300N development project.

She works for Abonmarche, which is handling planning for the project.

Welch said at a May steering committee meeting “we selected … a parcel that we are recommending to be used as industrial land going forward.”

“We are developing some conceptual subdivision layouts for

Downed trees

Continued from page 1

tree limbs and branches fell across the area.

Ogden Island, southeast of Syracuse, appeared to be the hardest hit as a tree was reported on a home and numerous tree limbs down. That area, along with Northshore Drive in Syracuse, had boat lifts moved, boats turned around and piers damaged.

In Milford large trees at the home of Scott and Zoeneya Gingerich, 215 S. Main St., and at 109 N. Main St., the home of Robert and Karrin Haines, were uprooted

SEEKS FINANCIAL SUPPORT Frank Levinson with Team FaB speaks at the Kosciusko County Redevelopment Commission meeting on Thursday, July 11, in the Kosciusko County Courthouse’s Old Courtroom.

Photo by Leah Sander.

that,” she said. “At this point we’ve got about three of them rolling around within the Abonmarche office.”

She said Commission member Jan Orban looked over layouts to give input.

Welch said the next committee meeting at the end of July people were “to finalize that land use map, that development strategy, discuss, make any changes.”

“We do think multiple conceptual subdivisions are the right way to go,” she said.

She said hopefully plans are to come to the commission’s Sept. 12 meeting “with a draft study report.”

In other business, the commission: Heard a brief Kosciusko Economic Development Corp. update from Peggy Friday, who attended her first commission meeting as KEDCO CEO.

The commission’s next meeting is 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 12, in the Kosciusko County Courthouse’s Old Courtroom.

falling across the roadway or sidewalk. Large tree limbs blocked the street at Jorge and Maria Castro’s residence, 205 N. Main St. Corey and Krystal Veach, at the corner of Henry and Syracuse streets, MIlford, had a large tree limb not only fall on their home causing some roof damage, but also on top a vehicle parked in their driveway.

Steve Marquart, Milford utilities superintendent, stated crews were out between 12:45-3 a.m., pushing large limbs and smaller branches off the roadway.

County commissioners

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organizations, but is it the government’s place to take tax dollars and delegate them to them?

That’s the fundamental problem

I’ve had for years. “ Commissioner Bob Conley said that when he first became commissioner in 2007 “I think there were like 20-25 not-for-profits that we funded, and over the years we’ve been able to determine those who had funding from other sources ...”

He said Tuesday, “I guess the question before us today is, do we want to maintain the status quo?

If that’s the case, we can vote on that. Or do we want to give them a slight increase, looking to the future then having a discussion with each one of them on their funding, where they have funding from other sources. We just don’t

Kip Tom

Continued from page 1

ear was pierced with a bullet. Tom was sitting with ex-military officers, special forces and a couple senators. When the first shot came out, Tom said Trump “put his hand to his ear and then he went down on his own to the floor, and the security force came up there and just threw their bodies on top of him to protect him.”

Tom said they continued to hear shots ring out.

“I, and some of other military folks, with some of the training we’ve had, said, ‘Get down, get down,’ and everybody in the crowd got down, and a few of us were trying to point out where the shooter was at because we could tell direction,” Tom said. The shooting was coming from behind where Tom was sitting.

It was about shot six or sev-

want to cut them off all at once.”

Jackson said some of the nonprofits didn’t ask for any increases for next year.

Jackson said the decision was a tough one and they didn’t just want to stop providing funding without giving the nonprofits notice.

“But I think if we’re going to eventually start walking in the other direction, we need to stop heading in the increase direction.

I’m leaning toward just keeping the status quo for everybody this year,” he said.

Jackson made the motion to keep the amounts for 2025 for the nonprofits the same as 2024 for all of them, and no funding for Safe Harbor.

In other business, the commissioners approved:

• For Kosciusko County High-

en where the shooter hit a person about 15 feet behind Tom. Tom said they heard a different caliber gun being shot, which he said was probably the shot that took out Crooks.

“Unfortunately, the person behind me, which you’ve all probably seen by now, is a husband, a father, a (former) firefighter,” Tom said, referring to Corey Comperatore. “... I was back there, and I can’t imagine what his children, his wife, his friends and neighbors who were around him saw after he was shot.” At most venues when there’s been an active shooter, chaos usually breaks out with people scattering everywhere.

“That didn’t happen here. These people stayed put. They were curious if the president was OK. They got down when security told them to get down. When the president stood up and did the fist bump and waved

Turkey Creek Fire Territory responded to several calls of a limbs on power lines and smells of smoke. At 2:57 a.m., the department was called to 1311 E. Northshore Drive for a tree on a garage. The property is owned by Barbara Lou Moore. Firefighters found a large limb from a nearby tree had fallen on the garage, but did not go through the roof.

The storm that raged through the area left approximately 5,260 people in Leesburg, Milford, North Webster and Syracuse without power as of 8:04 a.m. Tuesday. By

way Department to purchase a 2025 GMC Sierra pickup truck from Shepherd’s Chevrolet, North Manchester, for $61,850. Highway Superintendent Steve Moriarty said it was the lowest of six bids and he has the funds in his budget.

• For the Kosciusko County Clerk’s Office to enter into a purchase agreement for Poll Pads encoder adapters at $35 per adapter.

• Approved for the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office to purchase a Chevy Tahoe for an administrative vehicle out of the sheriff’s commissary fund. The vehicle is from Kelley Chevrolet, Fort Wayne, with a price tag of $50,795.

• Rezoning 11.17 acres off CR 1100N, west of Ind. 19, in Scott Township, from an agricultural district to an agricultural II

to the crowd, people applauded and started chanting, ‘USA, USA,’” Tom said. “I think that says a lot about Trump, says a lot about the Trump supporters as well.”

Tom stated what seemed so surreal to him was as it was happening, he felt he was watching the John F. Kennedy assassination in 1963, when he was a young boy.

“That’s what it seemed like to me,” he said. “We can take it back to Robert Kennedy, John F. Kennedy, then Reagan and those attempts. What I remember is, and if you look back through history how that changed the course of our country, even going between John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson. Imagine if that bullet would have been an inch closer ...”

“When I come back to Warsaw, Indiana, and say how does it affect us here, I think we need to continue to

8:24 a.m. today, Wednesday, July 17, 1,122 customers were still without power. No information on REMC outages were available.

Turkey Crreek Township Fire Chief Mickey Scott reported power was still out south of Pickwick Drive just after noon Tuesday.

Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory Chief Jeremy Likens reported no calls were received and he had observed branches and limbs down throughout town. While power was out in town, it was restored around 5:30 a.m. Power outages were reported in the Barbee Chain area.

district for Robert and Loretta Stutzman.

• A motion on a preliminary plat for a 12-lot residential subdivision by Wackey 2 Premier near James Lake to not change the county’s ordinance as far as curb and gutter from the top of the hill down, require it from (EMS) T52 (Lane) to the bottom, and basically send it back to area plan to review those parameters, encourage them to have Area Plan Director Matt Sandy and Steve Moriarty meet with them so they’re not going to do any design that’s not going to meet the standards.

The property is on the west side of EMS T52 Lane, north of EMS T52C Lane, in Tippecanoe Township. The property was once a Baptist camp.

The next commissioners meeting is at 9 a.m. July 30.

work to be unified across different politics, find our common ground. I think we need to find where we can work together and stop trying to divide ourselves so much. I think there’s an opportunity to emerge from this in a good way,” Tom concluded.

Both Trump and Tom headed to Milwaukee, Wisc., for the 2024 Republican Convention following the Pennsylvania event. Tom said he believed the attempted assassination would likely affect the election between Trump and current President Joe Biden, the presumptive Democrat nominee. Tom also anticipated heightened security and Secret Service presence at the convention, which began yesterday and will conclude Thursday, July 18, with the assumed nomination of Trump as the Republican candidate.

County council delays action on mobile home tax exemption ordinance

By DAVID SLONE Times-Union

Members of the Kosciusko County Council wanted to hear from the public at their meeting Thursday, July 11, regarding a property tax exemption ordinance for mobile and manufactured homes, but only two people commented on it.

After the public hearing, instead of giving it an up or down vote, the council voted 4-2 to “not take any action until we get more figures on the 2024 costs and incomes figures, and we’re going to send notification to all the entities (who received 2023 mobile home tax revenue) on this sheet that we want to discuss this, we wish for their input.”

The auditor’s office will send out the notifications to the taxing entities.

Council members voting to table the ordinance without a definitive timeline were Tony Ciriello, who made the motion; Dave Wolkins; Council President Mike Long and Vice President Kathy Groninger. Opposed were Councilwomen Joni Truex and Kimberly Cates. Councilwoman Sue Ann Mitchell was absent.

The ordinance would exempt mobile home personal property assessments. It would not include a mobile home assessed as real estate.

County Assessor Gail Chapman and Treasurer Michelle Puckett first presented the ordinance to the council on April 4, but because Senate Enrolled Act 183 didn’t take effect until July 1, the council couldn’t act on it until after July 1. The two women re-presented it to the council at their July 3 informational meeting, making it known that the ordinance would be up for adoption and there would be a public hearing on it at the council’s next meeting, which was Thursday. A legal notice was published regarding the public hearing.

In presenting the SEA 183 ordinance, Puckett and Chapman presented the council members with a packet of information, including “a brief overview of all the steps that the mobile home personal property takes within the county, the different offices that it affects and what we all do with that or don’t do with that depending on if they (the taxes) are collected or not.” If the taxes aren’t collected, they also provided the council with a lengthened timeline for certifying collections and judgments through the courts.

The council was given 2023 data, which is the last complete data the county has on mobile homes. That data included tax dollars collected from mobile homes and the breakdown of how those dollars were distributed to taxing entities.

“So for 2023, it’s $454,209.49,” Puckett said. “I do like to remind you that these dollars are not taken into consideration when tax rates are set or when the DLGF (Department of Local Government Finance) approves budgets. These revenues are outside of that because are they not a dependable stream. ...”

Cates said, “So, basically, it costs us to assess and that’s why we’re choosing to do this. Isn’t that correct, bottom line?”

Puckett said yes and the state provided the opportunity for the exemption to be presented to the council this year, but it’s been discussed for years.

Ciriello asked what direction were other counties going with SEA 183. Puckett said the bigger counties like Marion, St. Joe and Allen were “hard no’s” because mobile homes bring in millions of dollars of tax revenue to them.

The smaller counties are definitely going to adopt it, but Puckett said Kosciusko County was kind of in the middle.

Cates asked Puckett for her opinion on the exemption. Puckett said her opinion would be yes be-

cause she understands the expenses and revenues.

Groninger asked if anyone reached out to the schools on the issue. Puckett said no one reached out specifically to the schools, but this was the third month they were having the discussion on it, the media covered it and no taxing entities ever questioned the mobile home tax exemption proposal during tax time and since the council’s discussion on it began.

Wolkins said that according to the Legislative Service Agency, in 2025 Kosciusko County could lose $759,000. He asked what it could be for this year.

Puckett explained that $454,000 was the amount of revenue the county actually collected on mobile homes in 2023.

For tax year 2023, the county had 3,211 active mobile homes, according to data provided by Chapman and Puckett. Of those, 70% paid their taxes and 30% did not. There were 8,498 judgments certified to court and 17,976 active accounts in collections.

Wolkins said when people heard about the exemption, he didn’t hear from one person who said they thought it was a good idea. With the possibility of taxing entities losing revenue from the exemption, especially schools, he said he wasn’t sure the county should be doing this.

According to information provided by Chapman and Puckett on revenue school districts collected in 2023 from mobile home taxes in Kosciusko County, Warsaw received $130,166.55; Triton, $2,657.79; Tippecanoe Valley, $25,814.52; Whitko, $28,158.45; Wawasee, $62,883.30; and WaNee, $1,835.96. When the hearing was opened to the public, there was no one who spoke in favor of the exemption. Local businessman Don Zolman asked a question about manufactured homes being included, and Chapman said the exemption would just be for homes in the mobile home parks, not manufactured homes taxed as real estate.

Rachael Rhoades, Republican nominee for a county council atlarge seat, spoke against the exemption because of what the revenue loss could mean for schools. After the hearing was closed to the public, Ciriello said he had phone calls, text messages and emails that were against the exemption. He said, like Wolkins, he could not support it.

“I have not personally had any emails, texts, conversations — other than one at the Meijer store but I sought that out on my own. … To me, that’s disappointing,” Long said.

Ciriello made a first motion to table the discussion until the first part of 2025 so they could review the 2024 data. Wolkins seconded the motion. Chapman commented, “This is why I don’t feel like you guys are listening to anything that I’m saying. That is upsetting to me. Listening to the other people, and I appreciate that, but you’re not listening to me. And so, be aware, that if we table this, I have to hire another employee to work in that department downstairs. So if you decide to table it until next year and then decide to do away with it, I’ve got to figure out something to do with another employee. I’ve already got three employees, I’ve already got a plan for them.” She said she doesn’t have room for a fourth person to be in her office. There was some discussion about Ciriello amending his motion, with him saying if he was going to amend it his amendment would be to kill the exemption completely and not revisit it until the state requires the county to. However, he finally did amend it as stated and the council approved it 4-2.

Obituaries

Michael Ray Strong

United States Navy Veteran

Michael Ray Strong, 77, Syracuse, lost his battle with cancer on July 11, 2024.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ray; mother, Ivah-Jean; brother, Patrick; brother-in-law, Jim; sister-in-law, Cynthia; and brother-in-law, Robin.

MICHAEL RAY STRONG

Survivors are his wife of 42 years, Dorie (Sharps); brother, Richard (Annette); son, Scott (Katie); daughter, Shelly; along with six grandsons. Also surviving are his sister-in-law, Paula; sister-in-law, Rachelle (Brad); and his many dear friends.

He was always active, preferably outdoors. Michael enjoyed golfing, boating, fishing, yard work and taking care of his cars and boats. After proudly serving in the United States Navy aboard the USS Roosevelt, and honorably discharged, he was employed by the Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers Local #147 in Fort Wayne until his retirement in 2000.

Michael was a fun-loving man that worked hard, played hard (maybe harder). He was “one of the good guys,” loving, caring, compassionate, kind. He will be missed by not only his family, but friends in Fort Wayne, Syracuse and Pine Island, Fla.

Visitation was held from 2-4 p.m. Tuesday, July 16, at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse. There was a legion walk-through and military honors performed at 4 p.m. at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Legion Post 223, St. Judes Children’s Hospital or the American Cancer Society.

Joseph Neil Westendorf

Force Veteran

Air

U.S.

With heavy hearts yet filled with gratitude, the family of Joseph Neil Westendorf, 94, announce his peaceful passing on Sunday, July 7, 2024, at his Lake Tippecanoe home, surrounded by his loving family.

JOSEPH NEIL WESTENDORF

Joe was born April 22, 1930, in Bluffton, the eldest of the five children of (the late) Joseph F. and Elsie (Beire) Westendorf. He graduated from Central Catholic High School with the class of ‘48, served honorably in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict, and married his high school sweetheart, Dorothy Evelyn (Bennett) Westendorf, on Oct. 17, 1953. Together, they began a family that eventually grew to nine children, moving from Fort Wayne to Lake Tippecanoe in 1969.

His life was marked by his devotion to his family, unwavering optimism and sense of humor, and his deep appreciation for the beauty of Lake Tippecanoe and the lake life. He also had a love of history, and like so many of his generation, could keenly recount hearing of the attack on Pearl Harbor as it unfolded. However, most of Joe’s stories were funny and brought laughter, told with impeccable timing, and with Dorothy affectionately reigning in embellishments.

His legacy of love and laughter will endure through the generations he touched. Joe was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Tippecanoe Lake Property Owners Association, Chain O’ Lakes Barbershop Chorus and was the 2004 Distinguished Lake Tippecanoe Honoree.

He is survived by his son, Doug Westendorf of North Manchester; four daughters, Debbie Westendorf of Decatur Tenn., Kim (Don) Trammel of Leesburg, JoAnn (Jeff) Brown of North Webster and and Michelle (Chris) Davis of Nappanee; son-in-law, Eric Essig of Leesburg, 17 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Ellen Collins; sisters-in-law, Janet Westendorf and Mary Jane Westendorf; and brother-in-law, Paul Bennett.

Joe was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Dorothy Westendorf; three daughters, Laura Westendorf, Nancy Westendorf and Barbara Essig; son, Joey Westendorf; daughter-in-law, Beverly Westendorf; sister, Pat Ebler; and brothers, Larry Westendorf and Jerry Westendorf.

The funeral mass was celebrated at 12:30 p.m. Thursday July 11, in St. Peter Catholic Church, 518 E. DeWald St., Fort Wayne, with visitation from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the church. Visitation was also from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, July 10, at Divine Mercy Lake Avenue Funeral Home, 3500 Lake Ave., Fort Wayne, with the rosary at 3:30 p.m. Joe was laid to rest in Catholic Cemetery with military honors.

The family’s preferred memorials are Sacred Heart Catholic Church, online at sacredheartwarsaw.org or by mail to 125 N. Harrison St., Warsaw, IN 46580; or to St. Peter Catholic Church, online at saintpetersfortwayne.org or by mail to 518 E. DeWald St., Fort Wayne, IN 46803; or to the Lake Tippecanoe Property Owners Association, online at ltpo.org or by mail to P.O. Box 224, Leesburg, IN 46538. To share a remembrance of Joe or to offer condolences, please visit divinemercyfuneralhome.com.

Alice Joan Nelson Former Drug Store Employee

Alice Joan (Romeiser) Nelson, 90, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2024, at Goshen Hospital in Goshen.

Alice was born on March 2, 1934, in Auburn. She graduated from Auburn High School and attended Western College and Purdue University, where she met the love of her life, Noel Nelson. Coming from a pharmacy family, Alice worked alongside her mother and father at Romeiser Drug Store (Auburn) as well as Nelson’s Drug Store (Hammond) with her husband and father-in-law.

Alice was a member of many local clubs and organizations, including Tri-Kappa, Panhellenic, PEO and Antique Enthusiasts. She enjoyed anything related to the lake, including sailing, canoeing and water-skiing in her younger years. Alice loved to garden, collect and refinish antiques, read and attend family gatherings, especially with her granddaughters and later her great-grandsons. She was preceded in death by husband, Noel R. Nelson; parents, Carl and Thelma (Koehlinger) Romeiser; in-laws, C. Robert and Claire (Christiansen) Nelson; sister-in-law, Jody Kapahua; brother-in-law, Gabe Kapahua; and brother-in-law, Robert T. Curless. She is survived by daughter, Carla (Nelson) Raynor, and sonin-law, Robert (Bob) Raynor; granddaughters, Alicia (Raynor) Espino (Rey) and Rachel (Raynor) Cartee (Austin); great-grandsons, Jayden and Jackson Cartee and Noel Espino; sister, Mary Lou Curless; nephew, Michael Curless (Nancy); nieces, Amy Day (Clark), Karen Samuelson, Christine Hanneman and Kristi (Kea) Kapahua; as well as assorted great-nephews and great-nieces.

A celebration of life service will be held on Tuesday, July 23, at Burns Kish Funeral Home in Munster. Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. and the service will be from 11 a.m. to noon. Burial will be private in Syracuse at a later date. Eastlund Funeral

Lynn R. Burkholder

Talented Craftsman

Lynn R. Burkholder, 55, Warsaw, passed away at home at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 12, 2024, as the result of natural causes.

He was born Dec. 21, 1968, in Fort Wayne, the son of Ray and Elizabeth (Troyer) Burkholder.

He is survived by a son, Sheldon Burkholder of Eau Claire, Wis.; a grandson, Silas Burkholder; three siblings, Kevin (Kresta) Burkholder of Mentone, Cheri Baugher of Warsaw and Michelle Burkholder of Warsaw; and three nieces, Andrea French, Kylie Baugher and Hannah Burkholder.

Lynn was a hard worker from a young age. He worked in the RV Industry for many years, at Ideal Construction, drove semi over the road for Swihart Trucking, worked at Chore-Time Brock and ran Burkholder Farms. He was a talented craftsman and enjoyed building cabinets, farming and gardening.

A funeral service will be held in Lynn’s honor at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 18, at Mishler Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 461 W. 900N, Milford. Pastor Jim Woldhuis will officiate. Burial will follow at Stoney Point Cemetery in Clunette.

Family and friends will be received from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 17, at the funeral home. There will also be an hour of visitation from 9-10 a.m. prior to the service on Thursday.

Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family online at mishlerfhcc.com.

Gloria Seyler

Gloria Seyler, 95, North Webster, died Friday, July 12, 2024, at Miller’s Merry Manor, Warsaw. Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of North Webster.

Larry Embry

Larry Embry, 77, Barbee Lake, died Saturday, July 13, 2024.

Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of North Webster.

Ronnie Spranger Sr.

Avid

Ronnie “Big Ron” Rowland Spranger Sr., 69, North Webster, passed away at 4 a.m. Sunday, July 14, 2024.

He was born Sept. 24, 1954, the son of William and Barbara (Roland) Spranger in Fort Wayne. On May 23, 1997, he married Patsy Powell in Warsaw.

He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Patsy Spranger of North Webster; two children, Ronnie (Stephanie) Spranger Jr. of Kendallville and Jennifer (Benjamin) Kimmel of Fort Wayne; two stepsons, John Human and David Human, both of Tennessee; three grandchildren, Veronica (Chris) Snarr, Mark Spranger and Sierra Spranger, all of Fort Wayne; seven great-grandchildren; and siblings, Myra (Tim) Brunson of Fort Wayne, Christina Isbell of Churubusco, Ronda (David) Nichols of Fort Wayne and William Spranger of Florida.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and five siblings, Penny, Sally, Jackie, Mike and Tim. Big Ron absolutely loved to fish. He had fished every lake in the area and knew all the best fishing spots. The only thing Big Ron loved more than fishing was his family and friends. He always had friends over and simply loved living life to the fullest. He was truly magnetic, incredibly funny and never judgmental. Big Ron will be greatly missed and never forgotten.

A celebration of Big Ron’s life will be held from 1-3 p.m. Sunday, July 21, at Mishler Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 461 W. 900N, Milford. Family and friends will be invited to share their favorite memories of Big Ron at 3 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family online at mishlerfhcc.com.

Births

Janelle Diane Miller Glen and Doretta (Yoder) Miller, Milford, are the parents of a daughter, Janelle Diane, born at 2:46 p.m. July 12, 2024, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 6 pounds and was 17 3/4 inches long.

Maternal grandparents are Marvin and Emma Sue Yoder. Paternal grandparents are Omer and Virginia Miller. Janelle joins five siblings: Aaron, Anthony, Joshua, Caleb and Caroline. Esther Elaine Schwartz Menno and Erma (Hochstetler) Schwartz, Milford, are the parents of a daughter, Esther Elaine, born at 12:17 p.m. July 13, 2024, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 6 pounds, 10 ounces, and was 18 1/4 inches long. Maternal grandparents are Menno and Rosemary Schwartz. Paternal grandparents are Rudy and Carrol Hochstetler.

Turkey Creek Sewer Board prepares

By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer

The Turkey Creek Regional Sewer District discussed property owners in the East Shore/North Shore area who have failed to connect to the new sewer system at their Monday, July 15, meeting.

According to board attorney Andy Boxberger, there are five or six property owners who are still on their septic systems and have not responded to the district in the 90-day limit given in the last letter sent out. They are required to connect to the Turkey Creek system by Indiana septic elimination law. The fine for failure to connect is $100 per day.

Leniency is given to those who have gotten a permit with a contractor to connect to the system but haven’t had the work done yet.

Superintendent Tim Woodward asked for more time to review the state of individual cases before any fines were issued.

“I’ll try to have a master list of where we’re at by the next meeting, whether they have a permit and they’re not done ... I’ve got a stack of notes on my desk and I haven’t had a chance to follow up on any of them,” he said.

The board determined that by the next meeting on Monday, Aug. 19, they will “be in a position to begin $100 fines,” said vice president Bob Dumford.

Boxberger also reported preliminary results from the State Revolving Fund have been released, but the final findings on grand funding for the district will not be available until the next meeting.

In the engineering report, John

Magsam of Jones & Henry Engineers gave an estimate of $11,850 for concrete work to expand the plant’s electrical house. This became necessary when new rotors were added to the plant.

In the superintendent’s report, Woodward gave the board stats on Fourth of July weekend, the district’s busiest time of year. It was a record flow at 1.1 million gallons per day for four days straight.

Woodward is waiting for post-holiday flow to go down before investigating a blockage in one of the pipes. During Fourth of July weekend, a clarifier tank was found empty and continued

to lose water after it was refilled.

Something is preventing water from flowing into the tank, which Woodward plans to investigate with camera line.

Test boring for a new well is scheduled for Tuesday, July 23.

The well the district is looking to replace was constructed in 1963. Its levels are being monitored daily. With recent rains, the water level is at 42 feet above the well screen.

A generator at Buttermilk Point is having problems getting started. The 20-year-old generator will still run but has to be started manually each day.

Sewer line locates are still happening in the area. The district performed 177 locates in the past three weeks in the Southshore area. The plant’s screener, which filters sand, rocks and debris from the water, was recently serviced. It was recommended to put new brushes on the screener for $5,000. Woodward opted to install the brushes with the district’s own labor. The device should be up and running again with the next few days. Lastly, the board approved accounts payable for the past month at a total of $486,653.31.

Accidents/Incidents

Kosciusko County

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

11:58 a.m. Saturday, July 13, 9400 block of North Syracuse Webster Road and East CR 950N, Syracuse. Officers responded to a report of a motor vehicle theft.

Value: $8,000.

8:03 p.m. Wednesday, July 10, 6900 block North CR 300E and East CR 700N, Leesburg. Representatives for the Kosciusko County Highway Department reported a hit-and-run vehicle accident resulting in property damage.

Milford

Officers with the Milford Police Department investigated the following incident: Incidents

12:01 p.m. Monday, July 8, 600 block of West Syracuse Street, Milford. Officers responded to reports of credit card fraud. Value: $3,597.

Syracuse

Officers with the Syracuse Police Department investigated the following incidents: Incidents

2:18 p.m. Thursday, July 11, 300 block South Huntington Street, Syracuse. Chandra Kelly reported theft of a bottle of alcohol. Value: $22.99.

8:49 a.m. Tuesday, July 9, 300 block North Huntington Street, Syracuse. Officers responded to a call in regard to a violation of protective order.

2:18 p.m. Thursday, July 11, 300 block of South Huntington Street, Syracuse. Officers responded to reports of theft at CVS Pharmacy.

10:41 p.m. Thursday, July 4, 5000 block of East CR 1400N/ North Indiana Avenue, Syracuse. A sign was damaged. Arrests

2 a.m. Sunday, July 14, 4300 block East Duffy Drive, Syracuse. Aaron Edward Torbet, 43, 4361 E. Duffy Drive, Syracuse, was arrested on two outstanding warrants.

2:18 p.m. Thursday, July 11, 300 block South Huntington Street, Syracuse. Margarita Hutchins, 37, 106 E. Pittsburgh Street, Syracuse, was arrested for theft.

Warsaw

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

3:07 p.m. Thursday, July 11, 1000 Husky Trail, Warsaw. Mary E. Kiser, East Backwater Road, North Webster, claimed another vehicle hit hers while it was parked at Menards. Damage under $1,001.

8:54 p.m. Tuesday, July 9, SR

15 and US 30, Warsaw. Drivers: Breanna R. Brown, 21, West Woodland Drive, Warsaw; and Fletcher G. Pohl, 17, EMS T7B Lane, Leesburg. Brown’s vehicle hit the back of Pohl’s. Damage up to $5,000.

Jail Bookings

Kosciusko County

The following people were booked in the Kosciusko County Jail:

July 16 — Erika Jennifer Bruner, 35, 11090 N. Wawasee Circle West, Cromwell, booked for battery. Bond: $500 cash.

July 13 — Mark Alan Lawson, 56, 8217 E. Constitution Drive, Syracuse, booked for operating a motorboat while intoxicated. Bond: $700 cash.

July 13 — Aaron Edward Torbet, 43, 4361 E. Duffy Drive, Syracuse, booked for possession of meth and failure to appear. Bond: $5,500 surety and cash.

July 11 — Tyler Jacob Wolfe, 26, 11846 N. Ogden Point Road, Syracuse, booked for driving while suspended with a prior suspension. Bond: $450 cash.

July 11 — Stephanie Ann Wiggs, 51, 10321 N. 100E, Milford, booked for domestic battery. No bond listed.

July 11 — Shaun Michael Church, 47, 1033 N. Mullen St., Syracuse, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated prior. Bond: $750 full.

Harwood arrested for drug possession, domestic battery

Carlton Joseph Harwood was recently arrested for allegedly battering a woman he has previously harmed.

Harwood, 54, 9631 E. Pixie Parkway, Cromwell, is charged with domestic battery, a class A misdemeanor; possession of methamphetamine, domestic battery resulting in moderate bodily injury, and intimidation, all level 6 felonies; criminal mischief, a class B misdemeanor; possession of paraphernalia, a class C misdemeanor; and domestic battery with a prior conviction, a level 5 felony.

On April 9, a Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office deputy responded to a report of an unwanted person at a Cromwell residence. A woman said she and Harwood were arguing when Harwood

pulled a shelf off a wall and threw items, resulting in damage to the property. According to court documents, the woman also said Harwood pushed her, causing her to injure her left arm. The deputy noticed a bleeding abrasion on the woman’s arm.

A witness said she saw Harwood throw items and that Harwood got in her and the woman’s faces, stating their “days were numbered.”

A Milford Police officer found

Harwood at a residence. Harwood stated the argument was only verbal. The officer noticed blood on Harwood’s shirt and left hand.

While being placed under arrest, officers found drug paraphernalia with meth residue on Harwood’s person. Harwood has a previous conviction for domestic battery in Kosciusko County from August 2023. The woman Harwood battered in the April 9 incident is the victim in that prior case. At the time of this incident, Harwood was on pretrial release in two criminal cases for possessing meth. His sentencing in those cases was set for May 13 and he failed to appear. Harwood was booked in the Kosciusko County Jail July 7.

More details on motorcycle pursuit near Milford

More details have been released about a Goshen man’s arrest on multiple charges. Daniel Gonzalez, 26, 808 College Ave., Goshen, is charged with domestic battery and resisting law enforcement, both class A misdemeanors; resisting law enforcement, operating a vehicle as a habitual traffic violator; and operating while intoxicated with a prior conviction enhancement, all level 6 felonies; operating while

Court documents released on June 29 fatal vehicle accident

By LIZ ADKINS Staff Writer

More details on a June 29 fatal vehicle accident west of Warsaw have been released in an affidavit of probable cause for a driver who was allegedly driving while under the influence.

Anish Daita, 31, 220 Churchill Downs Drive, Warsaw, is charged with causing death while operating a vehicle while intoxicated, a level 4 felony; and two counts of causing serious bodily injury while operating while intoxicated, both level 5 felonies. On June 29, the Kosciusko

County Sheriff’s Office responded to a vehicle accident on North CR 150W, west of Warsaw. Upon arrival, deputies saw a black Tesla passenger car with heavy front-end damage in a ditch on the west side of the roadway. Deputies also saw a black Chevrolet Tahoe SUV off the roadway with heavy front-end and driver’s side damage. The Tahoe’s driver, Joseph “Joey” Criswell, 44, Milford, was pronounced dead at the scene. According to court documents, deputies noticed Daita, the Tesla’s driver, was exhibiting physical signs of intoxication. They administered field sobriety tests to Daita, who failed all the tests he was given. A portable breath test result from Daita showed 0.11 grams of alcohol per 210 liters of breath.

Daita told deputies he was coming from a friend’s house and

had consumed one alcoholic beverage about three to four hours before the accident. He also said his vehicle was on auto-pilot when he lost control of his Tesla and hit the Tahoe head-on.

A witness said she was traveling north on North CR 150W when she saw the Tesla hit a hump in the roadway and go airborne. She estimated the vehicle went about two to three feet in the air and fish-tailed when it landed, traveling across the center line and hitting the Tahoe head-on.

A second witness said he was traveling west on West CR 300N and saw the Tesla traveling at a high rate of speed. He also said the Tesla hit a hump in the roadway and became airborne.

Multiple children in the Tahoe were injured as a result of the accident. One child was taken to Riley Children’s Hospital in Indi-

anapolis and another was admitted to a hospital in Fort Wayne for observation. Two passengers in Daita’s vehicle sustained non life-threatening injuries.

Daita was booked in the Kosciusko County Jail July 8, with a $105,000 surety and cash bond. Daita has several bond conditions. He surrendered his passport and is on pretrial GPS electronic monitoring through Kosciusko County Community Corrections. Daita also is ordered to not consume any drugs not prescribed to him or alcohol at any time as a condition of his bond. He also cannot leave Kosciusko County without prior written permission from the Kosciusko County Courts.

Daita posted bond on July 10.

An initial hearing will take place in Kosciusko Superior Court Three at 1 p.m. Thursday, July 25.

Tips for hot Hoosiers to stay safe in summer swelter

By JOE ULERY Indiana News Service

As summer temperatures rise, experts emphasize the need for Hoosiers to stay mindful of the heat to avoid serious health risks.

Zac Schlader, associate professor, IU School of Public Health in Bloomington, said with temperatures soaring into the 90s or higher, it’s important to stay cool and hydrated, and it is a must to pay attention to

your body temperature.

“If it were to rise too much that’s when you get into trouble with things like heat illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke, heat fainting — and in these cases these are things that are starting to get to the limits of what our body can handle,” he said.

Schlader warned that excessive heat can lead to severe health issues, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly and young children. Signs

of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, and dizziness. Medical experts stress the importance of acting quickly if symptoms appear.

A heatstroke requires emergency treatment. Symptoms and signs include an altered mental state or behavior, nausea and vomiting and a racing heart rate.

Dr. Donna O’Shea, chief medical officer in population health and value-based care with UnitedHealthcare, said patients suf-

fering from heatstroke should get help right away.

“One thing we do want to remember is that virtual care can help people connect with a healthcare professional 24/7, from their home when they have concerns that arise to get them the care they need,” O’Shea said.

O’Shea added Hoosiers can enjoy a safe and healthy summer if they stay in tune with their bodies and know when to take precautions.

intoxicated, a class C misdemeanor; and domestic battery with a prior conviction –same victim, a level 5 felony. On July 4, a Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office deputy responded to a domestic incident at a Milford residence. A woman said Gonzalez pushed her to the ground and got on top of her. According to court documents, the woman said Gonzalez left the scene on a motorcycle and told the deputy Gonzalez did not have a driver’s license. The deputy found Gonzalez and pulled him over; however, Gonzalez started his motorcycle and fled from the scene when the deputy tried to obtain a

Court News

Ball-Neer

The following fines for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Speeding — Logan J. Bartlow, Leesburg, $164.50; Shawn A. Collins, Milford, $164.50; Kenneth J. Graff, Milford, $164.50; Jeffrey G. Brugh, Syracuse, $164.50 Marriage Licenses

The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court Anne Torpy: Wihebrink-Kitt Delaney Wihebrink, 23, Warsaw, and Evan Kitt, 23, Leesburg Neal-Talbot

Mackenzie Ryan Neal, 29, Leesburg, and Rebekah Lynn Talbot, 28, LaPorte

Alexander Matthew Ball, 26, Syracuse, and Tyra Ray Neer, 22, Syracuse Wilken-Cierpilowski

Trace Michael T. Wilken, 23, Syracuse, and Tracey M. Cierpilowski, 58, Syracuse

Marriage Dissolutions

The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in Kosciusko Superior Courts I and IV: Smith — Rick Smith, Warsaw, and Autumn Smith, Syracuse. They were married Oct. 13, 2018, and separated Oct. 29, 2022. No minor children. Davis-Landry — Beth N. Davis, Syracuse, and Brandon D. Landry, Warsaw. They were married July 2, 2019, and separated Dec. 14, 2022. One minor child.

Syracuse Redevelopment Commission sells last lot in technology park

The Syracuse Redevelopment Commission agreed to accept a formal bid for $22,000 for Lot 7 in the, technology park, located north of town during its regular meeting Tuesday night, July 16. Lot 7 is the last lot to be sold in the park. While there has been significant interest and others have attempted to purchase it, it poses some unique issues with several utilities, including a Canadian pipeline, running underneath it. The purchaser intends to invest approximately $1 million on im-

proving the lot. The commission agreed to terms of the development agreement grant where the purchaser receives $6,000 for phase one, development and construction and $4,840 for phase two when the owner takes occupancy of the building.

Town Manager David Wilkinson told the commission the bid for the Pearl Street Parking Lot project came in lower than expected. He would like to have the remaining money allocated to that project shifted for street paving and street engineering for the remainder of

Tippecanoe Township board accepts bids for new building

By KEITH KNEPP Staff Writer

Bids for a new pole barn building to house equipment for the Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory were unsealed during the Tuesday evening, July 16 meeting of the Tippecanoe Township board of trustees meeting. While the building is a stopgap until the existing station is fully renovated or a new station is constructed south of North Webster, the pole barn will remain in use in either instance.

Only one bid was received for construction of the building itself. Pacemaker Buildings was awarded the contract for its bid of $189,950. Four bids were received for demolition and preparation of the building site. The lowest bid of

$7,200 was from Carey Excavating, Warsaw. Other bids included: Steve’s Hauling and Excavating, $11,856; Team Hamman, $16,839; and Nivek Earthworks, $31,790. Only one bid for electrical work was received. The contract was thus awarded to Derry Electric Inc. of Warsaw in the amount of $16,685.

Site preparation and building is set to begin as soon as possible, now that the board has approved the bids, hopefully by early September. In other business, the board approved an additional $1,000 appropriation to the North Webster youth baseball league for its operational expenses.

Francis also provided an update on cemetery restorations. He noted the work should begin in August or September.

this year and into 2025. All of the funds come from the Syracuse Tax Increment Finance District, which has approximately $1.5 million in it.

The commission approved raising the paving budget.

Wilkinson told the commission he would like to do a study re-

garding changing the type of stop lights in the Wawasee Village area as a first step in redeveloping the area. Another plan is to look at reconfiguring the Bowser Road/SR 13 intersection.

Wilkinson asked to use VS Engineering to come up with a proposal

for a cost of $50,000 for the Bowser Road/SR 13 intersection. He asked for an additional $50,000 to hire JPR Engineering to look at the possibility of installing some kind of boardwalk over the drainage ditches between SR 13 and the access roads for pedestrians and bike riders. The com-

mission approved both requests. Nathan Scherer, president of the commission, told the commission he would be meeting with an organization out of Kendallville that works on eliminating blighted areas. He’s interested in learning what techniques they use that might be impactful in Syracuse.

PODCAST HELPS ANSWER QUESTIONS — Shown is Dr. David Hoffert, Warsaw Community Schools; cohosts Suzie Light, former CEO of the Kosciusko County Community Foundation, and Dr. Nate Bosch,

Lilly Center unveils podcast for lake lovers: Lake Doctor Podcast

The Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams, in collaboration with DreamOn Studios, releases the first three of 26 episodes in its new podcast. The podcast is created in an audio and visual format and is available wherever podcasts are available or by visiting lakes.grace.edu/podcast.

The podcast helps lake residents answer questions like: Is my lake healthy? What are the threats facing my lake?

Who is taking care of my lake?

Guests join cohosts Suzie Light, former CEO of the Kosciusko County Community Foundation, and Dr. Nate Bosch, Creighton Brothers endowed director of the Lilly Center. Each guest speaks to their area of expertise related to the lakes, including research, K-12 education, wetlands, fisheries, planned giving, and more! Short feature segments help listeners dive deeper into the primary topic of the interview.

Guests in the first three episodes include Rich Haddad, CEO of The K21 Health Foundation; Dr. David Hoffert, Warsaw Community School superintendent; Dr. Rachael Hoffert, Grace College chair of elementary education; and Kay Young, Syracuse realtor. Future guests include representatives from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, local lake organizations, scientists, and local leaders. Are you a lake resident, lake lover, or simply interested in podcasts? The Lilly Center wants to hear from you! After listening to one or more episodes, visit lakes.grace.edu/podcast to submit feedback and help improve the podcast. Listen to or watch the Lake Doctor Podcast today on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, or YouTube. The Lake Doctor Podcast is possible due to support from The K21 Health Foundation and Rick and April Sasso.

Syracuse Town Council approves bid for Pearl Street parking lot

By LAUREN ZEUGNER Staff Writer

During its regular meeting

Tuesday night, July 16. the Syracuse Town Council approved a bid for $391,891.23 for the Pearl Street parking lot paving project.

The winning bid was submitted by Beer & Slabaugh. Town Manager David Wilkinson told the council not only did Beer & Slabaugh have no errors in its bid proposal, it was also significantly less than R. Yoder Construction and Niblock Excavating, the other bidders. Work is to start soon with the parking lot being significantly complete sometime in November.

The council approved a contract for trash removal from Waste Connection, which recently acquired Borden Waste Away. The contract is for approximately $277,660.80.

Wilkinson noted Waste Connection was the only bidder for the contract and he and Nate Scherer worked with Eric Ivory, a Waste Connection representative, on dealing with overage fees, fuel surcharges and the discovery the company undercharged the town

by approximately $86,000 to come to an acceptable contract.

Councilman Larry Siegel brought up the fact the contract states residents may put out one large item a week for pick up. However he had a call from a resident where a large item was repeatedly left behind.

Siegel related how he got into a heated conversation with a customer service representative regarding large item pick up. She claimed the company would never agree to doing large item pick up once a week. He later called customer service and got another representative who was able to pull up the actual contact and went to work on resolving the issue. Ivory said he was aware of the situation, having spoken with both customer service employees and their supervisor.

Siegel then asked how would the contract be monitored since in the past the company slipped in fees that were overlooked for several months. Ivory explained the town was working with a new company due to an acquisition.

Council President Nate Scherer appointed Kim Ruthenbeck to the

Syracuse Board of Zoning Appeals and Mark Madinger to the Syracuse Redevelopment Commission. Christopher Harrison and Robin Matthews of Commonwealth Engineering, the town’s engineering firm, brought a task order for nine projects worth $710,000, not including engineering fees of $117,000. These projects will be part of the town’s 2025 application for a Community Crossings Grant. The Community Crossings Grant is a statewide grant program where the state pays 75% of the cost of road projects while the town pays 25%.

One of the proposed projects will be Boston Street, which will cost approximately $452,000.

In department reports Councilman Bill Musser asked about ground being broke at Rabbit Ridge. Wilkinson said it will be soon.

In his report Wilkinson told the council he has met with two consultants/contractors about wiring the council chambers so meetings can be broadcast. A new town seal has also been hung in the room as well.

He recommended the town look at the possibility of having a town app. The Town of Bristol has one where residents receive alerts, can pay utility bills and go through the town website. The cost is $3,900 per year, which would be divided among the town departments.

Layne was asked to bring the council a clean copy of what the safety committee approved before council would vote on it.

Mark Aurich, public works superintendent, reported he, the water and street department teams were up most of the night cleaning up downed trees.

He has been unsuccessful in finding a water superintendent to hire. The state has not approved Aurich taking the test either. His request has been sitting on someone’s desk in Indianapolis for six months.

He requested permission to extend the contract for Stouder another six months. The cost of the contract is approximately $35,000. The council approved the contract extension.

The council approved the Turkey Creek Fire Territory purchasing two rapid deploy crafts, one for each station, for a cost of $4,900 each plus shipping. These crafts inflate in approximately 90 seconds and can be deployed where there is no boat launch or in areas a boat may not be able to reach.

Fire Chief Mickey Scott explained the craft may be used for water, ice and thin ice rescues.

Scott also addressed questions as to why the sirens did not sound Monday night into Tuesday morning during the storms. Those sirens are for tornadoes only. The National Weather Service never reported a tornado in the area.

monixide alarms going off in people’s homes due to exterior home generators running 8-9 hours.

The council is considering changing its meeting time from 7 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month to 10 a.m. to make it easier for department heads who live some distance away.

Siegel did ask about members of the public who may not be able to make a morning meeting to comment or bring issues to the council. Scherer noted government tends to work 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and rarely extends business hours because the public is working. Another concern was those wishing to run for council, but not able to make a morning meeting. It was pointed out the meeting time is always subject to change.

By KEITH KNEPP Staff Writer

During Tuesday night’s meeting of the Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory board of trustees, Tippecanoe Township Trustee

Chris Francis discussed several potential change, which will affect fire territory employees. Francis said he has been going through the budget and has moved some money from one line to another. Once he sees “where everything falls,” including the township tax rates, which would allow TTFT to potentially increase the wages of its employees.

“First and foremost, we’ve got to take care of our people,” Francis said. “Everybody’s hiring right now. So, not only do we have to maintain what we have, but we’ve got to be able to do some recruitment in the event we have some vacancies.”

Francis also discussed changes to the TTFT personnel handbook, including vacation time, PTO, sick leave, and parenting leave. Those changes would be formally presented and reviewed by the board at a future time.

The board also received an update on the pole barn, which is planned for construction behind the current fire station on Main Street. Francis said those bids would be voted upon during the Tippecanoe Township board of trustees in the meeting, which was to immediately follow the fire territory meeting.

Fire Chief Jeremy Likens

provided an update on the new ambulances the township has ordered. He said one unit, which was supposed to be delivered by last Memorial Day, should finally be delivered by the end of this week. Likens noted the new ambulance is undergoing minor final touches, but it is almost completed, pending the delivery of a broken part. Likens said the ambulance had to be delivered by this Friday because it is scheduled to have its radios installed. A second ambulance, which was ordered in 2022 and was anticipated for delivery in February 2025, will likely be backed up as well. Likens noted the refitting of one of the territory’s current ambulances would be delayed, as well, if the new ambulance isn’t delivered in February as planned.

Likens also addressed the movement of the tornado siren, currently located at North Webster Elementary School. He is waiting on NIPSCO to disconnect the power to the siren before it can be moved to its new location.

Likens informed the board that the department responded to 78 EMS calls, 36 fire calls and four into Noble County during the month of June. For the year, they have made a total of 559 runs, which is approximately 50 more than at this point in 2023.

The next meeting of the Tippecanoe Township board of trustees will be Tuesday, Aug. 20, immediately following the North Webster Town Council meeting, which begins at 6 p.m.

A council approved waiving the tap on fee of $1,879.36 for a local developer working on the old Polar Craft building. Musser noted the council was not setting any kind of precedent. This was an economic development tool the town offered and has used in the past.

The council again discussed a policy change for police officers to take cars home. Police Chief Jim

Continuing to discuss the storm that hit the area Monday night into Tuesday morning, Scott noted a number of homes with generators attached to them have been placed close to air conditioning units, setting up a scenario where a home can fill with carbon monoxide. The fire department has dealt with a number of calls related to carbon

Winners at Dewart Lake Flotilla

Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum are teaming up once again to present the second annual “A Walk Down Memory Lane” event. This free program, open to all ages, takes place 4-5:30 p.m. July 20 at the Oakwood Resort in Syracuse. The event will feature screenings of historic films showcasing Syracuse and Lake Wawasee, including from the Teetor and Rod-

abaugh families, among others. These cinematic treasures offer a unique glimpse into the lives and landscapes of yesteryear, showcasing how our area has evolved over time. In addition to the film screenings, attendees will have the opportunity to contribute their own oral histories. Those unable to share their stories at the event can arrange a separate time with the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical

Museum to record their recollections. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in local history, share your stories and connect with fellow community members. Mark your calendars for July 20 and join in at the Oakwood Resort for an afternoon of nostalgia, laughter and discovery. Remember, admission is free, but the memories you’ll make are priceless.

2024 ILEARN Results Released

The Indiana Department of Education today presented results from the spring 2024 administration of the Indiana Learning Evaluation and Readiness Network. Most grade levels had a slight increase in English/language arts proficiency, while math proficiency slightly decreased following significant growth since the pandemic.

“While many grades have seen increases in both ELA and math proficiency over the past three years, we must continue to keep our foot on the gas pedal to ensure all students have a solid academic foundation in order to maximize their future opportunities,” said Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education.

“A number of key tactics have been put in place to support educators, parents/families and students. It is essential that our local schools and parents/families continue to work together and stay laser-focused on improving student learning in ELA, as well as math. As we urgently work to improve student learning, the new ILEARN Checkpoints, launching as a pilot in the upcoming school year, will provide more actionable data throughout the year, resulting in more strategic, increased support for our students.”

Statewide, 41.0% of Indiana’s students are at or above proficiency standards in ELA, and 40.7% of students are at or above proficiency standards in math. This is up 0.5 and 3.8 percentage points respectively since 2021. Due to variables in instruction from COVID-19 and the disruption of 2020 assessments, 2021 results represent the current Indiana baseline. Key takeaways from the data include: Since the 2021 baseline, ELA

proficiency has increased across most grade levels.

• Third grade: 0.1 percentage point decrease.*

(Note: Many students in third grade in 2024 received instruction in either a fully or partially virtual setting during kindergarten due to the pandemic. Data show that in-person instruction is key to student success.)

• Fourth grade: 2.2 percentage point increase.

• Fifth grade: 0.8 percentage point increase.

• Sixth grade: 1.2 percentage point increase.

• Seventh grade: 0.7 percentage point increase.

• Eighth grade: 1.3 percentage point decrease.

Since last year, the 2024 statewide ILEARN results reflect a slight increase in ELA proficiency across most grade levels compared to 2023.

The highest year-to-year increases were in grade four (1.5 percentage points) and grade seven (2.3 percentage points). ELA proficiency in grades four and six is the highest it has been since the pandemic.

Since the 2021 baseline, math proficiency has increased across all grade levels.

• Third grade: 3.7 percentage point increase.

• Fourth grade: 4.3 percentage point increase.

• Fifth grade: 2.2 percentage point increase.

• Sixth grade: 5.1 percentage point increase.

• Seventh grade: 3.4 percentage point increase.

• Eighth grade: 3.6 percentage point increase.

Since last year, the 2024 statewide ILEARN results reflect a slight decrease in math proficiency across most grade levels compared to 2023, following significant growth in recent years. Proficiency rates in 2024 remained within one percentage point of last year’s results for all grade levels.

The greatest change was in grade seven (one percentage point increase).

Since last year, the 2024 statewide ILEARN results show that seventh grade students had increases in both ELA and math (2.3 and 1 percentage points respectively) compared to 2023.

Specific student populations are seeing improved growth.

Since the 2021 baseline, math proficiency rates are higher in 2024 for all student populations.

Since last year, Black students had the highest percentage point increase in ELA (1.2 percentage points) and also saw an increase in math proficiency. Since 2021, Black students have seen a 3.5 percentage point increase in ELA and a 5.4 percentage point increase in math.

Students in special education and students receiving free/reduced price meals also had mod-

est gains in both ELA and math from 2023 to 2024. English learners students were identified in 2023 as needing continued targeted support in ELA. Since then, EL students have had a 0.8 percentage point increase in ELA. Additional targeted support is still needed in math.

In order to provide more actionable data throughout the year for students, parents/families and teachers, Indiana has been working since January 2022 to redesign the ILEARN ELA and Math assessments, which will roll out as a pilot this upcoming year. These new checkpoints will provide improved real-time student data that can be used to better support student learning throughout the year, rather than waiting until the end of the year for results. The redesigned assessment will have three checkpoints and a shortened summative assessment at the end of the school year.

These checkpoints are not punitive in any way and will be used to guide student learning. If a student does not master a particular standard, the student will receive additional intervention and instruction prior to having a retest option. Over 70% of schools opted-in to participate in the ILEARN Checkpoints during the 2024-2025 school year. The full rollout, which includes all schools, will begin in the 20252026 school year.

ILEARN, which meets state and federal assessment requirements, assesses proficiency in content standards in English/language arts and math in grades three through eight. ILEARN is an Indiana-specific assessment; therefore, ILEARN results cannot be compared to results from other states.

Results of the 2023-2024 administration of the SAT assessment were also released. The SAT serves as the federal accountability high school assessment for 11th grade students in Indiana. State law requires IDOE to administer a national college entrance exam with the “passing” cut score no lower than the national cut score.

College Board is seeing a decrease in scores nationally, including in Indiana. In 2023-2024, College Board changed the test design, which can often impact assessment scores. Additionally, Indiana students who are chronically absent scored substantially lower on the SAT. These results underscore the urgency behind the state’s ongoing work to rethink the high school experience and, ultimately, ensure more parents and students see the value in education.

Full ILEARN and SAT results, as well as results from other assessments, are available at drive.google.com/file/d/1BBv7c5-JL87vLleEycyX9Ddpjx

Dynamic Floral named chamber member of the month

Dynamic Floral, 1426 S. Huntington St., Syracuse, was named the July chamber member of the month by the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce. Ashley Dillon, executive director of the chamber of commerce, said the floral boutique was selected as the chamber member of the month for its support of fellow Syracuse businesses and Syracuse-Wawasee community.

Specializing in unique, whimsical, and eclectic designs, Dynamic Floral is not a traditional florist. It is creating florals for birthdays, weddings, funerals, parties, anniversaries and anything you can think of. It also is offering fresh floral subscriptions, receiving beautiful flowers delivered to your home each week, month or whenever you want. Located within the Dynamic Landscaping building, they have a fully functioning greenhouse with annuals, perennials and outdoor planters. By offering a wide selection of houseplants and succulents the staff can create indoor potted planters to match the style of your home. They can also design custom flowerpots and planters for all your outdoor needs, always working within your budget to make sure that you get flowers that you love. The store has a small gift shop that offers gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, sympathy items, and a wide variety of other items. Be sure to follow Dynamic

CHAMBER MEMBER OF THE MONTH Dynamic Floral was named Chamber Member of the Month for July by the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce.

The boutique floral shop was selected due to its strong support of other chamber members and the community. Shown from left are Mason Slagbaugh-Tippy Country Club; Rita Davis-Remax partners; Sheryl Coquitt-Eastlund Funeral Home; Marlies West-Goshen Home Medical; Rachell

CHARCUTERIE BOARDS Friends of the Syracuse Public Library, from left, Jan Rose, Nan Phillips and Sue Kracke, pose with some of the charcuterie boards created by local artists. The silent auction on the boards will run until 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 15, at the Syracuse Public Library. Photo by

Syracuse Public Library — Charcuterie board bidding

Hatfield-The

Venue;

Floral on social media for sales, deals, and flowers for each week. Hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday; and 10

a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call or send a text to (574) 528-1713, or visit dynamicflower.com

Check out Dynamic Floral on its Facebook page “Dynamic Floral” or on Instagram “@dynamicfloral.”

Bidding on the boards will conclude at 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 15. Keep visiting the library to ensure your bid remains on top.

Adult Book Club

Adult Book Club will meet to discuss “Into the Wild” by Jon Krakauer at 1 p.m. Thursday,

Swing by the Syracuse Public Library to place your bids in the Friends of the Syracuse Public Library’s ongoing charcuterie board silent auction. The auction features charcuterie boards designed by local artists using different mediums. The charcuterie boards will briefly travel to North Webster Community Public Library for a Coffee with Friends program at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 24. Model boat craftsman Jerry Neibert will share his craft with attendees.

MODEL BOAT One of several model boats crafted by Jerry Neibert and displayed at the North Webster Community Public Library.

provided by the library.

North Webster Community Public Library — Coffee with Friends introduces local craftsman Jerry Neibert

North Webster Community Public Library, in conjunction with the Friends of the Library, has announced the upcoming “Coffee with Friends” event, where local resident and craftsman Jerry Neibert will share the fascinating process behind his handcrafted model boats. This event will take place at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 24. Neibert, a talented woodworker, has meticulously created model boats that resemble actual vessels which once sailed the local lakes. His intricate models are currently displayed around the library, offering a glimpse into the rich maritime history of the community. During the event, Neibert will discuss his inspiration, techniques and stories behind these remarkable models.

The FOL will be serving refreshments to attendees, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for all. Following the presentation, participants can enjoy an optional scavenger hunt to locate the model boats displayed

throughout the library. Those who complete the scavenger hunt will have the chance to win a special prize. Library Requesting Community Input For Long Range Plan

The North Webster Community Public Library would like to encourage library users and community members to help shape the future of NWCPL. Library staff and board of trustees are crafting a long-range plan for library collections and services and would be very appreciative of community input. Please stop by the library for a paper survey or visit the library’s website at nwcpl.org to complete a survey. Weekly Library Events

The following activities are set to take place at North Webster Community Public Library. Attendees do not need to have a library card to participate in any of these events. All programs are free unless otherwise noted. Continued on page 8

July 25, in the downstairs meeting room. This nonfiction book chronicles a young man from a well-to-do family who hitchhiked to Alaska, walked alone into the wilderness north of Mt. McKinley and his eventual death.

A Zoom meeting discussion will be offered at 6 p.m. Thursday, July 25. Email adult services librarian Emilia Layne at elayne@syracuse.lib.in.us for information or a Zoom invitation.

Mahjong

Mahjong meets at 10 a.m. on Mondays and 1 p.m. on Wednesdays during the summer. Players of all levels, including learners, can join the tables in the Syracuse Public Library’s downstairs meeting room.

Anime Club

The young adult anime club will meet from 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 25, in the downstairs meeting room. Members will browse a list of selected anime on Crunchyroll and vote on which one to watch.

Milford Public Library —

Lunch at the library

Lunches and breakfasts are available in the library’s parking lot from 11-11:30 a.m. Monday-Friday. All children in the Milford community ages preschool through 18 years old are invited to come to the library and get a lunch and breakfast. You do not have to participate in the library’s summer reading program to get the lunches. Please take advantage of this great program.

Guest Storyteller

Felicia Mottern is the guest storyteller on July 19. Her book is “The Bear’s Sea Escape” by Benjamin Chaud. Looking for a good place to take a long winter’s nap turns into a real adventure for Little Bear and Papa Bear.

They get cozy and fall asleep in a shopping mall, when a little boy finds Little Bear and thinks he is a toy. Papa Bear wakes up to find his little cub missing and is off on a search that takes him through a train station, to a sea port and on a big cruise ship. Can you find Little Bear and Papa Bear in the two-page illustrations? Will Papa Bear find his cub? Come to story time at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 19, and listen to this great story. Craft will be making binoculars to search with. This is the last Family Story Time this summer, so plan to attend. Grand Finale Pizza Party And Foamzilla

The library will celebrate the end of another successful summer

reading program with a pizza party at noon Wednesday, July 17. Be sure to bring your pizza ticket with you. You earned a ticket if you read at least five hours this summer. They will be in the library’s parking lot. Bring a blanket or something to sit on and feast on pizza. Knights of Columbus are once again providing snow cones for everyone. At 1 p.m., Foamzilla will come and cool everyone off with tiny bubbles everywhere. Wear your swim suit if you prefer or something you can get wet. Summer Reading Program ends at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 20, so if you have hours you want to turn in for prizes, you have to do it by then.

Community Corner

Voirol becomes certified in animal chiropractic

By LAUREN ZEUGNER Staff Writer

For Kaytie Voirol, it was the classic story of wanting to be a veterinarian from when she was little. She made that dream come true.

The Milford native and 2010 Wawasee grad attended Michigan State University where she earned a bachelor of science degree in animal science, and then attended MSU’s College of Veterinary Science.

While in Lansing, she met and married her husband, Kyle. The two welcomed a little boy, Keyth, just as she was scheduled to start her second year of veterinary school.

While in veterinary school, Voirol became interested in the integrative medicine club, which hosted speakers who would come in to discuss acupuncture, chiropractic care and other alternative ways to manage pain and treat ailments.

“Each day we’re in the clinic, we’re doing a different species,” she said.

Voirol has worked a wide variety of animals from deer and “the occasional camel,” to Sphynx cats, a hairless breed.

Milford Animal Clinic made good on her contract request, allowing her to be able to pursue becoming certified in chiropractic care.

“Everybody’s spine is similar, but how it’s affected by gravity is different,” she said. She found chiropractic care to be a form of wholebody wellness.

She was recently certified by the Animal Chiropractic Education Source based in Meridian, Texas.

PROFILE

Viorol completed 240 hours of training, half of it online and half in person to earn her certification. It involved making three trips to Texas to participate in 40 hour practicals done over four days.

The students in the A.C.E.S. program worked on the professors’ patients.

of the

SPECIAL GUEST At the

the

of

in great hands with his leadership.

If you are wanting to see the community to continue to be one of the best in the country, get involved with a local service club. In North Webster, the Lions or Kiwanis are great organizations. Shown is the Kiwanis summer president, Paul

(left) with Pawlicki. Photo provided.

Mobile Meals drivers

She became very interested in chiropractic care while working on equines and seeing how much relief the horses experienced after a treatment. And, she was told she had a natural knack for it.

“When I started looking for a job, it was part of my contract that I could pursue that,” she said.

Voirol visited Milford Animal Clinic in late 2019 and was soon offered a job in her hometown.

“We couldn’t shake the feeling that (Milford) was where life was taking us,” Voirol said during an interview in 2020.

She was also looking for a practice that could provide her variety. She likes the change of pace Milford Animal Clinic offers her with it being a large and small animal vet clinic.

“We adjusted hundreds of animals over the weekend,” Voirol said. “It was a lot of fun, but it was a lot (of work).”

Currently her certification allows her to work on horses, cats and dogs. She’s already received positive feedback from her patients.

Eventually Voirol would like to become certified in food animals so she can do chiropractic care on goats, sheep and cattle. In September she will take a test to be a nationally certified chiropractic care provider. “Most (animal) chiropractics are not certified,” she said.

Animal chiropractic focuses on correcting any abnormalities in the alignment of an animals musculoskeletal system.

Voirol said chiropractic care can alleviate a number of health issues.

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS Milford Lions Club hosted its annual scholarship dinner recognizing the 2024, 2023 and 2022 recipients. Each recipient receives a scholarship renewable for four years. Shown from left are Lisa Ensz, president; Jay Duncan, 2023 Seely Scholarship; Ty Brooks, 2024 Lions Scholarship; Cade Beer, 2023 Seely Scholarship; Libby Haab and Emma Jackson, 2024 Seely Scholarship; Emily Haines and Arrington Krull, 2022 Seely Scholarship; and Dr. Bruce Lamb, Lions Scholarship chairman. Photo by Deb Patterson.

CAUSING YOUR CHILD DISTRESS?

Milford Lions annual scholarship dinner

The Milford Lons Club held its annual Scholarship Dinner, Monday July 15, preceding its monthly meeting. Scholarships were awarded to the 2024 recipients as well as previous recipients from the previous three years.

The Milford Lions Club has been awarding scholarships to

Milford students who have graduated from Wawasee High School for the past 36 years. The scholarship is $500 and is renewable for an additional three years.

The 2024 recipient is Ty Brooks, the 2023 recipient is Josalyn Kolberg and the 2022 is Grant Brooks.

In addition, the Milford Lions

Coffee with Friends

about invasive species at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, July 25. Learn how to identify invasive species around your home, plus how to take effective actions. This event will be informative and insightful for those concerned about the impact of invasive species on the local ecosystem. Dixie Day Book Sale will be happening from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 27. Come support the Friends of the Library plus get some great deals on books, CDs, movies and more.

Club administers the Seely Memorial Scholarship from a trust established by Lion Bud Seely in memory of his wife Lion Jerri Seely. This scholarship is in the amount of $1,000 and is also renewable for an additional three years. The 2024 recipients of the Seely

Teen Events Interested in having a voice in teen programming at NWCPL? Applications are open for Teen Advisory Board for the 2024-25 school year. TAB is a great opportunity to have fun while making new friends and building

Scholarship are Libby Haab and Emma Jackson. Previous recipients receiving their scholarships were 2023, Cade Beer and Jay Duncan; and 2022, Arrington Krull and Emily Haines. To date the Milford Lions Club has awarded over $48,000 in scholarships to Milford students.

‘Dating Game’ played in King’s Kiss at Sale Of Champions

Text and Photos

By DEB PATTERSON

Editor-In-Chief

Editor’s Note: Photos of the grand champion beef steer, duck, market lamb, and turkey were provided by Jerry Goshert, Farmer’s Exchange.

You never know what to expect at the Kosciusko County 4-H Livestock Auction, when it comes to the 4-H King and Queen Kiss. These cherished kisses have gone to family members, boy friends or girl friends, youngsters of friends

and even a pet calf. Last year it was the king’s suit auctioned instead of the kiss.

This year Morgan Himes’ Queen’s Kiss was normal. Her kiss was auctioned off for $1,150 and the lucky recipient was her sister, Sophia. The money raised will go to replace a lost tree at the Memorial Gardens. Himes is a member of the Leesburg Mighty Farmers.

But the kiss from Riley Shephard, 4-H King, a member of Leesburg Mighty Farmers, took on the theme of the 60s and 70s show “The Dating Game.” She-

phard was blindfolded as three contestants were introduced.

The first contestant was a strange looking blonde with a beard and mustache, who was actually Gabe Ayers wearing a wig.

The second contestant was a cute looking young lady, carried to the ring by Hudson Shepherd. This contestant was a white and brown goat.

The third contestant was 4-H Queen Morgan Himes.

After the bidding, in which the kiss went for $1,200, the 4-H King had to make his choice. After some thought, he choose No.

2, but then he wanted to change it to No. 3. While there was a slight discussion about how he couldn’t change his mind, Himes and Hudson Shepherd switched contestant numbers.

With his blindfold on, Riley Shepherd reached out to kiss Contestant No. 2, and even though he realized it was a goat, gave the animal a kiss. He then gave Himes a kiss.

Livestock Sold

This year’s sale of champions also had a special guest. Tricia Sloma WNDU’s morning co-anchor was present to help in the

sale ring with local radio announcer Chris Cage.

The auction highlights the efforts the 4-H’ers put into their livestock projects throughout the year. Each year the sale begins with the Sale of Champions followed by regular livestock club members. The auction is “premium only” where a buyer pays premiums or a cash award in recognition of a 4-H’ers financial investment and hard work.

There were 23, 10-year 4-H’ers or senior 4-H’ers participating in the auction. This year there were 10 cham-

pions or reserve champions sold. By the end of the auction there were 286 lots auctioned off. Here are the auction day results of the sale of champions: Grand champion rabbit meat pen, shown by Adalyn

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New coach sees positive signs in youth football camp

By NATHAN PACE Sports Writer

The first youth football camp at Wawasee for coach Matt Thacker is in the books and the new head coach is looking forward to what the future of Wawasee football can become.

A total of 126 kids from first through eighth grade took part in the camp, which ran from Monday, July 8, to Thursday, July 11.

“It’s been exciting to see as many kids as we’ve have. Been awesome to see the little kids helping out,” Thacker said, “It’s good to see the future of Warrior football. Looks like the future is pretty bright. There are definitely things we can do better to make the numbers a little bigger.

Definitely a good start. We’ve got some things we can tweak.”

One aspect of the camp Thacker wanted to feature was having his varsity players help teach the youth. He hopes it will assist his own efforts to coach the players currently in his program during a hard practice.

“Understand what it’s like to try and teach someone that really doesn’t want to listen to you.

That’s been kind of interesting for some of them,” Thacker said.

“It’s been good, it’s been helpful.”

While Wawasee had some offseason activity this summer, Thacker is thankful to get more time during the camp to get to know the people in his program, both in terms of current players and future Warrior athletes.

“It’s a little different for them

but overall it’s been pretty good.

A learning experience for them. It’s good to watch kids grow,” Thacker said. Thacker comes over from Fairfield after coaching the nearby Falcons for six seasons. He took over the Falcons in 2018 after the program went through two consecutive years with a 1-9 record.

Thacker made the turnaround to where Fairfield enjoyed an undefeated regular season in 2020 to complete the year 9-1 overall.

The Warriors are in a similar spot to where the Falcons were when Thacker took over in 2018.

Wawasee has posted a 4-27 record in the past three seasons with a 2-9 finish to the 2023 campaign.

Wawasee is currently at a summer camp at Manchester Univer-

sity where it will get a chance to test itself against local and out of state teams.

Thacker and the Warriors have a little over five weeks remaining before the season opener at Tippecanoe Valley on Friday, Aug. 23.

During the weeks leading up to the game, Thacker hopes to continue the process of improving the culture within the program.

“Our philosophy, trying to instill what we want to do with our culture going forward,” Thacker said. “There is a lot of learning going on. A lot of patience happening right now. We are just taking it one day at a time. At the same time it’s been good. It’s been a learning experience for them and for me as well. It’s just a process.”

Special golf event supports local cancer fund

Kristi Martin’s love of history

By MARY HURSH Guest Writer

Kristi Martin is the newest board member of the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum.

“I have always been interested and involved in this area where I grew up. All the Native American history here is fascinating as are the families in our community. The lakes are super cool,” said Martin.

After graduating from Wawasee High School, Martin earned her BFA in fine arts with a concentration in ceramics and a minor in anthropology at Indiana University. “I took an elective at IPFW in anthropology, which was awesome. I had world-renowned professors there. I took a class with a professor who studied in the Galapagos Islands, where he lived with different tribes. I was fascinated by the anthropology of medicine and different herbal remedies that the tribes used. Each anthropology class was cooler than the last.”

After graduation, Martin married her husband, Nathan. Over the years, she worked at a floral shop, a brewing company, a printing and an imaging firm. She was also a wedding and profile photographer and event planner.

“Last year I opened my own business, Milkweed Estate Management. I maintain five properties. I weed and prune and plant. Since I have two greenhouses, I start plants from seeds and eventually develop cottage gardens incorporating flowers and vegetables for my clients,” said Martin. Ross Heil, a new board member at the museum, suggested Martin come to a meeting and possibly join the group. She quickly became a board member and jumped into the big task of the museum’s recent remodeling. “I want to make things interesting and cohesive for visitors. I want them to see something of interest and delve deeper into the study of the item or items.” Martin and museum board president Peggy Genshaw hung all the Harkless pictures in a new spot for the public to enjoy.

The Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum houses memories from as far back as the time when Native Americans occupied our area. “There is so much history here and we should be proud of what we have been able to keep over the years,” said Martin. The Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. It is located in the Syracuse Community Center.

‘Dating Game’

Continued from page 1-B

year in 4-H and a member of the Leesburg Mighty Farmers. He also had sheep and rabbit projects.

Grand champion duck, shown by Alex Halaijian, Leesburg, son of Donovan and Harah Halajian, brought $2,600. This is Halaijian’s first year in 4-H and is a member of Leesburg Mighty Farmers. He also had dairy and swine projects.

Grand champion market lamb, shown by Caleb Lechlit-

ner, Nappanee, son of Fred and Heather Lechlitner, brought $9,240. He is a 10-year 4-H’er and a member of Leesburg Mighty Farmers. He also had beef and swine projects. Tricia Sloma, WNDU morning co-anchor, hears a comment from 4-H King Riley Shepherd. The grand champion beef steer, shown by Andon Zehring, Leesburg, son of Brian and Janel Zehring, brough $10,200. Zehring is a 10-year 4-H’er and a member of Leesburg Mighty

Farmers. He also had goat projects. The reserve champion beef steer, shown by Jaden Moneyheffer, Akron, son of Kayla Leininger and Justin Moneyheffer, brought $4,825. He is a member of Claypool Classics and in his seventh year of 4-H. He also has sheep and dairy projects.

Reserve champion dairy steer, shown by Jenna Beer, Milford, daughter of Marc and Jodi Beer, brought $3,750. She is in her fourth year of 4-H and a member of Milford helping Hands. She also has swine and goat projects.

Grand champion dairy market goat, shown by Hannah Kohler, Warsaw, daughter of Todd and Jennifer Kohler, brought $1,300. She is a seventh-year 4-H’er with the Beaver Dam Better 4-H’ers. She also has dairy projects.

Grand champion senior milking goat, shown by Jason Moore,

Warsaw, son of Tim and Janet Moore, brought $1,000. He is a seventh-year 4-H’er with the Goat Club. He also has poultry projects.

Grand champion specialty market goat, shown by Remington Bouse, Claypool, daughter of Tyler and Missy Bouse, brought $3,030. She is a second-year 4-H’er and a member of the Leesburg Mighty Farmers. She also has swine projects.

The 4-H Livestock Auction is “premium only.” This is where a buyer pays premiums, or a cash award in recognition of a 4-H’ers financial investment and hard work. Animals remain with the 4-H member or will be sold outside of the 4-H Livestock Auction. Those 4-H’ers who have multiple species are allowed to go through the auction

and must choose

Church Around The Lakes

Lucky or God?

By PASTOR DAVE WINTERS Wawasee Community Bible Church

“I’m not supposed to be here, I’m supposed to be dead … The doctor at the hospital said he never saw anything like this, he called it a miracle,” Donald Trump told the New York Post. “By luck or by God, many people are saying it’s by God I’m still here.” Lucky or God?

you are not supposed to be dead. How’s that for logic? Paul declares, “And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place, that they should seek God and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us.” (Acts 17:26-27)

You are not an accident. No one is. Your life is not a random chance act. God planned for you to be born in this specific time and place on the planet. Therefore your life has dignity, worth and purpose and this is from God.

I J K M N O P R S T U W X Y Z

N CASE you’ve missed it, the playground at Henry Ward Park is now open for play. There are many new apparatuses for your kids to explore and burn off some of their summer energy. The park is located adjacent to the public access site for Syracuse Lake Other park amenities include a boardwalk, fishing pier and an open air pavilion available to rent.

The park is named for one of the co-founders of Syracuse. Henry Ward was the first postmaster in the town and an associate judge in Kosciusko County.

DID YOU know there is a nature trail near North Webster Elementary School? Welah Metekkah Nature Trail was an Eagle Scout project conducted by Tyler B. Wear. There is also a disc golf course near there, too, so check it out if you’re looking to get some outdoor exercise this summer!

WAWASEE AREA Conservancy Foundation has standing water in its front yard due to all the rain in recent days. This also means the trails are flooded as well. WACF is asking the public to stay off the trail and the parking lot until they have a chance to dry out.

—o—

YOU MAY have noticed that the annual Harvest Market, which has been located for the past few years at Harvest Coffee, is no longer in operation. In past years, it has offered farm-fresh produce at a reduced cost. Many local farmers and gardeners would donate their excess produce to the market as a fundraiser for Harvest with a Heart.

As an alternative, you can now pick up fresh fruits and vegetables at the Milford Food Bank’s produce stand, located in front of their building on Emeline Street near the railroad tracks. Most days they offer a variety of items, some of which have a fixed price and others that are available for a freewill donation into the box provided next to the stand. The food bank welcomes the donations that previously were given to Harvest Market.

—o—

THE ANNUAL Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation Lakes Celebration and Breakfast will take place at 9 a.m. Saturday, July 27, at WACF Between the Lakes, 5814 E. Pickwick Drive, Syracuse. The free meal is donated by The Channel Marker.

The morning will start with breakfast and continue with updates from WACF Executive Director Heather Harwood, board members and speakers from agencies with whom the organization collaborates. Afterward, they will honor the work of their volunteers, including announcing the recipients of the annual Cattail Awards. For more information, call (574) 457-4549. —o—

ATTENTION NEW Wawasee elementary parents: New student registration is now open at Wawasee’s central office, 801 S. Sycamore St., Syracuse. Any incoming kindergarten student who did not attend kindergarten round-up this spring will need to register at the central office. Also, any student who is brand new to the school district will need to register at the central office.

Returning students can be registered online at wawaseeschools.org. The first day of school is Wednesday, Aug. 14.

THERE IS still time to register for the Tour des Lakes bike ride which is this Saturday, July 20. Tours starts between 7-9:30 a.m. at the Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N. Long Drive, Syracuse.

Pick between a 30K, 55K or 100K route which will take riders around the lakes in the area. There will be SAG stops along each route and lunch after the ride along with music, food trucks and more. Visit tourdeslakes.com for more information about each route and to register.

THE DEADLINE to get your garage sale listed in the ad for the Syracuse Town wide garage sale is 5 p.m. Thursday, July 25. The Syracuse Town Wide Garage Sale will be Aug. 1-3. The list will be printed in this publication and also will be available at the Syracuse Community Center beginning Aug. 1.

HARVEST COFFEE in Milford will be hosting Youth Game Night from 4-5:30 p.m this Friday, July 19.Join them for a time of Nintendo and board games. The cost is $5 per student, which includes dinner. Spots are limited, so call (574) 658-3066 or email milfordharvestcoffee@gmail.com today to reserve a seat at the game table!

Additionally, Harvest Coffee still has a few more spots available for the July 25 few more spots left in our July 25 Cooking Class for Kids. They will be making mini veggie pizzas.There might also still be a spot open for the July 30 class, when they will be making desert dips. The cost is $10 per class, per child. These are the last two classes of the summer, as the start of the school year is right around the corner!

—o—

Out of the hundreds or thousands at the rally one man, Corey Comperatore, was shot in the head and died. He had to be sitting at the exact right/wrong place at the exact right/wrong time. It was a miracle the bullet found Corey as he shielded his wife and daughter. What if he had needed to use the restroom or been a few minutes late or early to the rally? Unlucky or God?

With both Trump and Comperatore, the answer is God, and we won’t ever know why. The Bible is clear: “Who has spoken and it came to pass, unless the Lord has commanded it? 38 Is it not from the mouth of the Most High that good and bad come?” (Lamentations 3:37-38)

We don’t see a visible hand of God orchestrating events and circumstances; instead we see people making choices and decisions. Yet somehow God is over all of it and God is working out his ultimately glorious and good plan. A life of

faith in Jesus is always trusting, believing, and obeying him whether life appears to be lucky or unlucky. Proverbs 3:5-6 are favorite verses to many as they teach the right approach to our lives. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge God, and he will make your paths straight.” Christians don’t believe in luck we believe in God and we trust him in the face of what appears to be “good luck” or “bad luck.”

If you are here, you are supposed to be here. If you are alive,

Psalm 139:16 says, “Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” You have been given a certain number of days as a gift from God. What’s more? You were created to seek God and he is not far from you. When seeking God is the focus of your life you find rest and true life. “By luck or by God, many people are saying it’s by God I’m still here.” By God you (and Trump) are still here today, so be thankful, and seek your creator. Jesus is not far from you. You move toward Jesus by asking him to forgive you of your sins. Confessing your sins and receiving God’s grace is always the way forward.

CINDY KENNEDY, the auxiliary chaplain and a volunteer bartender at the American Legion in North Webster, was named the post’s MVP for July, along with her husband, Jim, who is the newly-elected chaplain of the Sons of the American Legion. They both volunteered to mow the Legion’s property all summer last year to help the post save money, and did so free of charge. The generous couple is pictured right.

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CAMP CROSLEY is hosting a Labor Day Weekend Family Camp Aug. 30-Sept. 2. All registration is done online. Choose the camp you want from the menu, and go from there. Visit campcrosley.org to sign up or call (574) 834-2331.

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PICKLEBALL HAS been the rage for a while now. Have you wanted to learn, but didn’t how or where to go? The Syracuse Parks and Recreation Department can help with that. Beginner pickleball clinics are being held from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesdays in July. These free sessions are held at the Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N. Long Drive.

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DO YOU love to play cornhole? If so, Meet Milford invites you join their cornhole tournament at 6 p.m. this Friday, July 19, as part of Food Truck Friday. The entry fee is $20 per team of two. There are no age restrictions. All teams must report to the cornhole tent by 5:45 p.m. to check in. It will be located in parking lot next to the Milford Community Building.

The double elimination tournament will follow American Cornhole Association rules. Prizes will be awarded to the first and second place duos, courtesy of Milford Food Bank. The link to the online registration form can be found on the Meet MiIford Facebook page. If you have any questions, email meetmilfordindiana@gmail.com or call/text (574) 221-0327.

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KOSCIUSKO COUNTY’S LaunchPad, a child care and early learning coalition, recently announced Wee Warriors Academy in Syracuse is accepting vouchers for OnMyWay Pre-K program. To apply visit OnMyWayPreK.org. To learn more about what LaunchPad does, visit the Kosciusko County Chamber of Commerce’s website kchamber.com.

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THE BUS to take people from the Senior Primelife Enrichment Center to the casino did not show up this past Monday morning. The casino trip has been re-scheduled to Monday, July 22, departing at 8:30 a.m. from North Webster and Lowe’s in Warsaw at 9 a.m. —o—

AT PRESS time, Lakeland Youth Center announced it had just five spots available in its 3/4 p.m. preschool class. Parents who want to take a shot at getting their child into one of LYC’s full classes should still register for the wait list. There is no fee to do this. Visit lakelandyouthin. myrec.com to sign up.

Blind pianist to perform concert at Cromwell UMC

Accomplished pianist Sam Lane will perform a concert from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, July 20, at Cromwell United Methodist Church, 116 W. Orange St., Cromwell. A brief intermission with ice cream and cookies will occur at approximately 3 p.m. Lane was born blind and started playing the piano at the age of 3 after listening to his mother play the piano in church. He performed his first concert in nursery school and began formal training when he was 7. He attended the Bronx School for the Blind, where he learned to read Braille music, and obtained a degree in piano performance from Oberlin Conservatory of Music in Ohio. His lack of sight is compensated for by his phenomenal sense of hearing and his instinctively brilliant musical aptitude. He told the Bradenton Herald, “There have been times when a music director was afraid to use me because I couldn’t see him, but I was always able to discern where he was going by listening

to other musicians and him as well.”

Lane’s roster of musicians who have inspired him includes Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Junior Walker, Benny Goodman, Ramsey Lewis and Glenn Miller.

“Ray Charles wrote, ‘I don’t need to see,’” said Lane. “I agree. I don’t need to see.”

Lane, 69, who lives in Bradenton, Fla., with his wife, Anita, serves as music director for two churches, pianist for a senior adult choir and a national performer who shares the musical gift God has given him.

He is actively involved in the Bradenton-based non-profit Aurora Ministries, which provides audio Bibles and other biblical resources to visually impaired and print handicapped individuals around the world.

At the concert in Cromwell, Lane will play gospel, secular or classical music upon request. He also plays jazz, blues, ragtime, pop, hip pop, rap and country.

Admission is free, but donations will be accepted at the door.

Dive In For The Great Savings

It happened in Milford ... 50 years ago Sergeant Dennis

10 YEARS AGO JULY 16, 2014

Hannah Tucker, 4-H Queen, from Milford, auctioned off her kiss for $1,100 with funds going toward the beef barn and Kosciusko County 4-H Livestock Judging Team. Mark Conley and Corbin Billing each received a kiss.

Chambers has reenlisted in U.S. Air Force

Milford United Methodist Church has a new look on the south side. A two-story addition has recently been completed after being started in September 2003. The new section of the church building includes a three-level lift (elevator), new pastor’s office, handicapped accessible restroom and storage/ classroom. Additional parking and building infrastructure improvements were also made as part of the overall project.

Cody Patterson is featured in the June 2004 edition of Powerlifting USA. The magazine article says, “Cody Patterson continues to prove

Danielle Jenkins of Milford received $2,500 for her 99-pound grand champion specialty market goat. She donated half the proceeds to the goat barn. During Monday night’s meeting of the Milford Town Council, Town Marshal Rich Miotto informed the meeting that he had reluctantly accepted the resignation of reserve Officer Ken Pearson, who had been with the department for 14 years. 20 YEARS AGO, JULY 14, 2004

why he is considered one of the best lightweight teenage pullers around with a great 435 personal best fourth attempt at 16-17/ 148.”

He set a new state record of 240 pounds, just missing a personal record 260 pounds due to a slight dip of the bar.

30 YEARS AGO, JULY 13, 1994

Building is well underway at Creek Bend Subdivision on CR 1250N, just west of CR 50W, Milford. Already, three homes have been built and only seven of the original 18 lots remain unsold.

According to Chris Combs of Beer Realtors, Syracuse, the property is owned by Virgil and Nancy Zimmerman and lots are selling for $6,000 to $12,000.

Mr. and Mrs. Juan Carvajal, 110

E. Emeline St., Milford, will be renewing their wedding vows at 4 p.m. Saturday, July 16, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Milford. Carvajal and the former Bea Jauregui were married July 12, 1954, in Texas.

Six members of Milford Volunteer Fire Department recently completed training in the field of firefighting. Lee Price and Ned Hunsberger each completed training for second-class firemen instructors. Ken Rogala, Dave Rosenberry and Bruce Routson completed training as second-class firemen, and Todd Sautter completed his necessary 24-hour training to become a fireman.

40 YEARS AGO, JULY 18, 1984

Milford resident Maurice Beer

was presented with a cake in honor of his donation of 14 gallons of blood to Red Cross blood program. The presentation was made last Friday and took place at a blood donor day at the Milford Apostolic Christian Church. Beer donated his first pint of blood on May 25, 1954. Since then he has donated 112 pints, enough to help 560 people.

The Milford Youth League baseball diamonds recently received new bleachers and dugouts. The equipment was purchased with donations from the United Way, the Lions Club, Kiwanis Club and Jaycees of Milford.

50 YEARS AGO, JULY 17, 1974

Sergeant Dennis M. Chambers, son of Mr. and Mrs. John M. Chambers, Waubee Lake, Milford, has re-enlisted in the U.S. Air Force after being selected for career status. Sergeant Chambers, an air traffic control radar repairman at Keesler AFB, Miss., was approved for re-enlistment by a board which considered his character and job performance. He is assigned to a unit of the air force communications service. The Donn Keslers were up early on Monday morning to meet a 4:20 bus in Fort Wayne. The bus brought them two youngsters from Washington, D.C., for a twoweek visit in the country. The trip for the youngsters was arranged through the Kesler’s daughter Linda who is working in the nation’s capitol.

It happened in North Webster ... 30 years ago Debra Bunt named runner-up in Mrs. Indiana America pageant

10 YEARS AGO, JULY 16, 2014

Dixie Day was the major topic of discussion at the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce meeting Monday, July 14, at the North Webster American Legion Post 253. North Webster Town Council turned down a request to vacate two platted alleys at its meeting Tuesday in the North Webster Community Center. Council members Jon Sroufe and Tim Hine voted to not vacate the town’s right of way as platted. Lisa Strombeck voted against not vacating the property.

At this year’s North Webster High School alumni banquet on July 12, four classes were honored: 1934, 1944, 1954 and 1964.

Three former students from the class of 1944 were in attendance at the alumni banquet: Maxine (Hamman) Long, Chuck Brower and Inez (Gorden) Caywood. Secretary Cheryl Leedy gave the 2014 secretary’s report and Fran Bowser, treasurer, gave the treasurer’s report 20 YEARS AGO, JULY 14, 2004

Eldon Clayton of North Webster will celebrate his 90th birthday. He was born on July 16, 1914. He married Louise (Watkins) Clayton on Aug. 31, 1935. They were married for 68 years. Mr. Clayton has one son: David and Judy Clayton, three daughters: Betty Clayton and Dee Stetzel; Sally and Jerry Phillips; and Eldonna and Randy Warren. He has 22

Sales and Marketing Director

We are looking for an accomplished Sales and Marketing Director with a solid background in the publishing industry and extensive sales experience. The ideal candidate will be marketing-savvy, well-versed in both print and digital marketing strategies, and possess a comprehensive understanding of advertising, print media, email campaigns, website analytics, digital marketing, SEO, and current digital marketing trends. This role manages over 40 marketing professionals, including a local sales team and a remote team that covers three states.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute effective sales and marketing strategies to drive revenue growth for both print and digital platforms.

• Lead and manage a team of over 40 marketing professionals, including a local sales team and a remote team across three states, to achieve and exceed sales targets.

• Analyze market trends and competitor activities to identify new opportunities and improve existing strategies.

• Oversee digital marketing efforts, including the development of digital platforms, email campaigning, SEO marketing, and website analytics to optimize online presence.

• Collaborate with editorial and production teams to ensure alignment of sales and marketing initiatives with content strategies.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, partners, and stakeholders.

• Monitor and report on team sales and profit performance.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in the publishing industry, with a strong track record in sales and marketing.

• Extensive sales experience with a demonstrated ability to achieve and exceed targets.

• In-depth knowledge of print and digital marketing, including email campaigns, website analytics, and SEO.

• Strong understanding of current advertising and digital marketing trends, and best practices.

• Excellent leadership and team management skills, with experience managing a large team.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work on-site at our Milford, Indiana corporate office.

Why Join Us:

• Be part of a family-owned company with a rich history and a strong presence in the publishing industry.

• Work in a dynamic and collaborative environment.

• Lead a talented team and make a significant impact on our growth and success.

• Competitive salary and benefits package.

Send email and send resume to: rbaumgartner@the-papers.com

BUYERBEWAREThePapersIncorporatedcannotscreenalladvertisements toeliminatepossibilitiesoffraudor misleadinginformation.Ifitsoundstoo goodtobetrue,itusuallyis.Persons respondingtoadsareadvisedtocontact theBetterBusinessBureauinyourareaor theIndianaSecretaryofState’sFraud Hotlinebeforesendinganymoney. 1-800-223-8791

grandchildren. He and his wife opened Clayton’s Garden Center in 1955; he also served as a school bus driver for many years.

40 YEARS AGO, ULY 18, 1984

Auction Sales A010

WANTED TO BUY CALL ME 574-457-6754

COMPLETE HOUSEHOLDS OF Furniture, Antiques, Collectibles, Coins, Old Toys GUNS Musical Instruments, Anything Of Value

Last night, Tippecanoe Township Advisory Board voted to pass a resolution making North Webster Tippecanoe Township Library Authority a Class 1 Public Library. From now on the library will be known as North Webster Community Public Library.

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North Webster High School Alumni Association met in North Webster Community Center Saturday. This was the first annual banquet in the former school building since it has become NWCC. Evelyn Lewallen Bowser was the only representative of the class of 1934 attending.

30 YEARS AGO, JULY 13, 1994

The Reds took two games from the Sox in North Webster boys’ Minor League action last week. In the first contest, Scott Jones had two hits as the Reds scored a 16-15 win. Jason Ought has two hits for the Sox. Jones had two hits also as the Reds beat the Sox 7-3. The installation of a ramp during the last week in June has made the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Library accessible to persons in wheelchairs. Funding for the ramp was provided by the Lakeland Kiwanis Club. Librarian Dean McFadden said the ramp is not required by law, but it is a courtesy.

JULY8TO20,9am-7pm,12584N.Kern Road.Furniture,quilts,1994LargoWesternsculptures,2woodencradles, decoys,8ft.stepladder,tent.

BUSINESS SERVICES

Tree Service C170

• Tree Removals • Competitive Prices

• Tree Trimming • Free Estimates

• Storm Damage Cleanups

• Climbing Or Bucket Lift Available

Mrs. Debra Bunt, North Webster, was selected as first runner-up in the Mrs. Indiana America pageant, and was also named the Mrs. Photogenic 1994 winner. The pageant was held June 18-19 at the Grand Ballroom in Indianapolis. She and her husband, Ron, have been married for six years and are the parents of three children: Broqsten, 4; Chanel, 3; and Larsen, 2. Mrs. Bunt competed against 31 women from all across the state of Indiana.

Call Dan The Tree Man 574-831-4381 New Paris

50 YEARS AGO, JULY 17, 1974 New officers were elected during the regular business meeting of North Webster American Legion Auxiliary at the Legion Hall. The new officers are: Elinor Enyeart, president; Mary Enyeart, vice president; Betty Bucsh, secretary; Edith Kesterson, treasurer; Ermal Vanator, chaplain; Kay Lowe, historian; and Elinore McGinnes, Sgt-at-Arms. Members of the Past Chiefs of Pythian Sisters met at the home of Mrs. Russell Engle. Mrs. Harry Bause, Mrs. Ermal Vanator, Alaroma Green and Iva Krause each read a verse on friendship.

It happened in Syracuse ... 40 years ago

Robert Kitson named to Fairfield School Board

10 YEARS AGO, JULY 16, 2014

Congratulations to Doug Shoemaker, owner of The Frog Tavern in Syracuse. He was just featured in the Inside Indiana Business newsletter. Here’s a small part of what was said, “In just eight

years, Doug Shoemaker worked his way up at Syracuse’s The Frog Tavern on the shore of Lake Wawasee in Kosciusko County. First he did all the odd jobs of an intern, then became general manager and now he owns the

CTB Inc. recognizes employee service milestones

CTB Inc. has recognized those who achieved work milestones during the second quarter of 2024. The company congratulates the following employees for their recent anniversaries: 50 Years of Service — Earl Barrentine

45 Years — John Smeltzer

40 Years — Shayne Miles

35 Years — Troy Haines, Harvey Hall, Chad Stiver, Eric Bechtel

30 Years — Eric Kolberg, Kevin Koher, Sandra Brown, Richard Ray, Renee Brown, Dwight Davis

25 Years — Victor Mancinelli, Joey Ricketts, Lowell Kleen, Ira Deam, Antonio Chamorro, Keith Shepherd

20 Years — Kenneth Buford

10 Years — Derek Kann, Leah

Cordero, Jorge Gonzalez Five Years — Greg Myers, Julie Penkala, Lanz Harwell, Lee Cress

“We are pleased to announce the work anniversaries that took place during the second quarter of 2024,” said Michael J. Kissane, CTB executive vice president and chief administrative officer. “A large portion of these employees have been with us for 25 to 35 years, with some exceeding 40 to 50 years of service, which makes us extremely proud, and their contributions cannot be overstated! In addition to their length of service, we’re thankful for everyone’s contributions to our company’s global mission of Helping to Feed a Hungry World.”

STATE OF INDIANA COUNTY OF KOSCIUSKO ) CAUSE NO. 43C01-2407-MI-72 IN RE THE NAME CHANGE OF: Carter Ciaccia Petitioner VERIFIED PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME Petitioner, Carter Ciaccia, pro se, respectfully petitions the court to change name. In support of this Petition, Petitioner states as follows:

1. That my current name is Carter Lee Ciaccia.

2. That my date of birth is January 12, 2007.

4. That my mailing address is: 207 N. East Street, Milford, IN 46542.

6. That I do not hold a valid United States passport. My proof that I am a United States citizen is birth certificate. I will bring this document to my change of name hearing for verification.

7. That the following judgements of criminal conviction of a felony under the law of any state or the United States have been entered against me, or I have stated immediately below that I have no felony convictions: I do not have any felony convictions.

8. That I am not seeking to defraud creditors by changing my name.

9. That I have published notice of my request for change of name in a local publication as required by law, and will bring proof of publication to the hearing.

10. That I am not a sex or violent offender who is required to register under Indiana Code 11-8-8.

11. That I wish to change my name to: Carter Lee Coday.

12. That I request that the name on my birth certificate be changed to my new changed name. Specifically, Carter Lee Coday. WHEREFORE, I respectfully request that this Court grant my Petition for Name Change, and for all other just and proper relief. I affirm under penalties for perjury that the foregoing representations are true. Carter Ciaccia 207 N. East Street, Milford, IN 46542 STATE OF INDIANA COUNTY OF KOSCIUSKO )

Before me, Patricia Gall, a notary republic, Kosciusko County, State of Indiana, personally appeared Carter Lee Ciaccia, and being first duly sworn upon his/her oath, says that the facts alleged in the foregoing instrument are true.

Date: 7/2/2024 Patricia Gall, Notary Republic My Commission Expires: 4/27/2031 hspaxlp Jy.10-24

STATE OF INDIANA COUNTY OF KOSCIUSKO )SS: 43C01-2406-PL-000061

D. PHILLIP FORD, S. JILL STARR,

road 39.5 feet to an iron pipe; thence South 74 degrees 38 minutes West 98 feet, more or less, to the water’s edge of Tippecanoe Lake; thence Northwesterly along said water’s edge to a point that is South 74 degrees 54 minutes West

Complaint within 30 days of the last date of publication of this notice. If you fail to plead or otherwise respond, the Court may grant the relief requested by Plaintiffs. Dated: 6/24/2024

Ann Torpy , Clerk Kosciusko Circuit and Superior Court hspaxlp Jy.3-17

popular tavern and restaurant, including its 70 feet long dinner houseboat, the S.S. Lillypad.”

Tyler McLead, program coordinator for the Syracuse Parks Department, reported 180 riders participated in the Tour des Lakes bicycle event last Saturday. That’s the most ever!

20 YEARS AGO, JULY 14, 2004

The Purple Heart is one of the most prestigious honors a soldier can receive in wartime, and area soldier Spc. Jarod A. Myers was recently presented with the medal. The son of Deeana L. Tyler, Syracuse, and Dan A. Myers, Larwill, Myers is a member of the Army’s 1st Battalion 21st Infantry Division and was injured in an explosion in Iraq.

That was some birthday! Brad Jackson threw a 40th birthday party for his wife, Tracy, Saturday, July 10, at their home in Syracuse. Out of the 100 people who were invited and attended, the Jacksons were honored to count among their guests U.S.

Rep. Mark Souder and his wife, Diane.

30 YEARS AGO, ULY 13, 1994

Marine Sgt. Jason R. Stover, son of Beth A. Couture of Syracuse, recently departed for a six-month Mediterranean deployment with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, Camp Lejeune, N.C., as part of the aircraft carrier USS George Washington Joint Task Group.

According to Bob and Stanley Insley, lifetime residents of Syracuse, the gentleman who owned one of the shaving mugs recently donated to the Syracuse-Turkey Creek Museum Inc. was Lewis Seider. He owned the Seider-Burgner Grocery store located at the former Palace of Sweets uptown, owned by Lee Carboneau.

40 YEARS AGO, ULY 18, 1984

Cathy Kammerdiener, 301 N. Harrison St., Syracuse, recently received her diploma from The Barton School, Scranton, Pa., as a medical/dentist office assistant. Miss Kammerdiener is a 1982 graduate of Wawasee High

TOWN OF MENTONE

MENTZER PARK IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Notice is hereby given, that the Town of Mentone, hereinafter referred to as the Owner, will receive sealed bid packets for the Mentzer Park Improvement Project in Mentone, Indiana.

Sealed bids must be received by the Town of Mentone no later than 3:00 p.m. (Local Time) on August 6, 2024. Bids received after such hour will be returned unopened. Bids may be mailed or hand delivered to the Mentone Town Hall, located at 201 West Main Street, Mentone, Indiana. (The Mentone Town Hall is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.). Bids received prior to the posted deadline shall be opened and publicly read at the public meeting scheduled to take place on August 7, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. in the Mentone Town Hall located at 201 West Main Street, Mentone, Indiana. All interested citizens are invited to attend, and should any citizens require special provisions, such as handicapped modifications or non-English translation personnel, the Town will provide such provisions as long as the request is made by July 31, 2024.

A pre-bid meeting will be held at 11:00 a.m. (Local Time) on July 25, 2024 at the Mentone Town Hall located at 201 West Main Street, Mentone, Indiana. All interested prime contractors, subcontractors, small, minority or women owned enterprises and/or other interested parties are encouraged to attend.

The proposed scope of work for this project includes: new concrete sidewalks, asphalt parking area, a pavilion & restroom structure, playground equipment, renovated basketball courts, bridge deck rehabilitation, lighting & security features, and associated improvements necessary to create a safe, accessible, and welcoming park environment.

The Bid Documents are comprised of a set of Plans and a Project Manual. Bid documents for the Project will be available beginning July 10, 2024 and may be examined and obtained digitally by contacting Magdalena Aravena with Troyer Group at maravena@troyergroup.com.

The work to be performed and the bid to be submitted shall include sufficient and proper sums for all general construction, mechanical installation, labor, materials, permits, licenses, insurance, and so forth incidental to and required for the construction of the facilities.

Each bid must be enclosed in a sealed envelope bearing the title of the Project and the name and address of Bidder. All bids must be submitted on the bid forms as identified in the Contract Documents and Specifications.

Each bid shall be accompanied by a certified check or acceptable bidder’s bond made payable to the Owner, in a sum of not less than five percent (5%) of the total amount of the highest aggregate bid, which check or bond will be held by the Owner as evidence that the bidder will, if awarded the contract, enter into the same with the Owner upon notification from him to do so within ten (10) days of said notification.

Approved performance and payment bonds guaranteeing faithful and proper performance of the work and materials, to be executed by an acceptable surety company, will be required of the Contractor at the time of contract execution. The bonds will be in the amount of 100% of the Contract Price and must be in full force and effect throughout the term of the Construction Contract plus a period of twelve (12) months from the date of substantial completion.

The Owner reserves the right to reject any bid, or all bids, or to accept any bid or bids, or to make such combination of bids as may seem desirable, and to waive any and all informalities in bidding. Any bid may be withdrawn prior to the above scheduled time for the opening of bids or authorized postponement thereof. Any bid received after the time and date specified shall not be considered. No bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids for at least ninety (90) days.

A conditional or qualified Bid will not be accepted.

Award will be made to the low, responsive, responsible bidder. The low, responsive, responsible bidder must not be debarred, suspended, or otherwise be excluded from or ineligible for participation in federally assisted programs under Executive Order 12549.

All applicable laws, ordinances, and the rules and regulations of all authorities having jurisdiction over construction of the project shall apply to the project throughout.

Bids shall be properly and completely executed on bid forms included in the Specifications. Bids shall include all information requested by Indiana Form 96 (Revised 2013) included with the Specifications. Under Section III of Form 96, the Bidder shall submit a financial statement. A copy of the proposed Financial Statement to be submitted with the bid is included in the bid documents section to these specifications. The Owner may make such investigations as deemed necessary to determine the ability of the Bidder to perform the work and the Bidder shall furnish to the Owner all such information and data for this purpose as the Owner may request. The Owner reserves the right to reject any bid if the evidence submitted by, or investigation of, such Bidder fails to satisfy the Owner that such Bidder is properly qualified to carry out the obligations of the Agreement and to complete the work contemplated therein.

Each Bidder is responsible for inspecting the Project site(s) and for reading and being thoroughly familiar with the Contract Documents and Specifications. The failure or omission of any Bidder to do any of the foregoing shall in no way relieve any Bidder from any obligation with respect to its Bid.

Wage rates on the project shall not be less than the federal Davis Bacon wage scale published by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Bidders on this work shall be required to comply with the provisions of the President’s Executive Order No. 11246, as amended. The Bidders shall also comply with the requirements of 41 CFR Part 60 - 4 entitled Construction Contractors - Affirmative Action Requirements. A copy of 41 CFR Part 60 - 4 may be found in the Supplemental General Conditions of the Contract Documents and Specifications.

The Bidders attention is also called to the “Minority/Women Business Participation” requirements contained in the Project Specifications. The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs has adopted a State goal of 10% participation for minority and women owned businesses for construction related or purchase related contracts for the work. In addition, as required by the Indiana State Revolving Fund, the successful Bidder shall comply with the provisions of H.R. 3547, “Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014” commonly known as “Buy American” provisions as contained herein requiring that all the iron and steel products used in the Project be produced in the United States.

The Contractor must meet guidelines and practices established by the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs. These appropriate federal regulations include: 1) Executive Order 11246, 2) Section 3 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1968, as amended, 3) Certification of Non-Segregated Facilities, 4) OMB Circular A-102, 5) Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 6) Section 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 7) Age Discrimination Act of 1975, 8) Executive Order 12138, 9) Conflict of Interest Clause, 10) Retention and Custodial Requirements for Records Clause, 11) Contractors and Subcontractors Certifications, and others that may be appropriate or necessary.

Contract procurement is subject to the federal regulations contained in the OMB Circular A-102, Sections B and O and the State of Indiana requirements contained in IC-36-1-9 and IC-36-1-12. Pursuant to Chapter 5, 5-4 of the Labor Standards Administration and Basic Enforcement Handbook 1344.1 Rev 2; “No contract may be awarded to any contractor that is debarred, suspended or otherwise ineligible to participate in Federal or Federally assisted contracts or programs. Any contract awarded to a prime contractor or subcontractor that is found to be ineligible for award must be terminated immediately.” Prior to contract award prime contractors are to be actively registered or seeking registration with SAM.gov to determine eligibility/debarment status. Any

School and the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Kammerdiener, Syracuse. Robert Kitson, a teacher in the Lakeland School System for the past 20 years, has been named to serve on the Fairfield Community School Board. Kitson, 42, presently teaches physical science at Wawasee High School. Kitson, a rural Syracuse resident, lives with his wife, Judy and four children.

50 YEARS AGO, JULY 17, 1974

Loris D. Clark, a member of Syracuse Lodge 454 F & A, became a 50-year Mason on May

22 of this year. He was presented his award of gold on June 12 at the Kale Island Beacon. After the lunch, in a short ceremony, Clark was presented his award and pinned by Clifford H. Ott, a 50-year Mason. Sarah Coy of Syracuse, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Myrick, and Sarah’s cousin, Kim TeGrootenhuis, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William TeGrootenhuis, left om July 9 on an American Leadership Study group tour of Europe. This is a study tour, with classes and travel combined.

are included in the Bidding Documents. The Town of Pierceton reserves the right to accept any bid, reject any or all bids, to waive informalities and make the award in any manner deemed in the best interest of the Town of Pierceton. Any questions prior to bid opening shall be directed, in writing, via email to Chad Salzbrenner at csalzbrenner@fveng.com. Pre-bid Conference A pre-bid conference for the Project will be held on July 31, 2024 at 10:00 A.M. at Pierceton Town Hall, 105 Walnut

Pierceton,

46562. Attendance at the pre-bid conference is required. Instructions to Bidders

work to be performed and the bid to be submitted shall include

and proper sums for all general construction, labor, materials, permits, licenses, insurance, and so forth incidental to and required for the construction of the facilities. Each bid must be enclosed in a sealed envelope bearing the title of the Project and the name and address of Bidder. All bids must be submitted on the bid forms as identified in the Contract Documents and Specifications.

Each bid shall be accompanied by a certified check or acceptable bidder’s bond made payable to the Owner, in a sum of not less than five percent (5%) of the total amount of the highest aggregate bid, which check or bond will be held by the Owner as evidence that the bidder will, if awarded the contract, enter into the same with the Owner upon notification from him to do so within ten (10) days of said notification. Approved performance and payment bonds guaranteeing faithful and proper performance of the work and materials, to be executed by an acceptable surety company, will be required of the Contractor at the time of contract execution. The bonds will be in the amount of 100% of the Contract Price and must be in full force and effect throughout the term of the Construction Contract plus a period of twelve (12) months from the date of substantial completion.

Bid security shall be furnished in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders.

A conditional or qualified Bid will not be accepted. Award will be made to the lowest, responsive, and responsible bidder. The lowest, responsive, and responsible bidder must not be debarred, suspended, or otherwise be excluded from or ineligible for participation in federally assisted programs under Executive Order 12549.

All applicable laws, ordinances, and the rules and regulations of all authorities having jurisdiction over construction of the project shall apply to the project throughout.

Bids shall be properly and completely executed on bid forms included in the Specifications. Bids shall include all information requested by Indiana Form 96 (Revised 2013) included with the Specifications. Under Section III of Form 96, the Bidder shall submit a financial statement. A copy of the proposed Financial Statement to be submitted with the bid is included in the bid documents section to these specifications. The Owner may make such investigations as deemed necessary to determine the ability of the Bidder to perform the work and the Bidder shall furnish to the Owner all such information and data for this purpose as the Owner may request. The Owner reserves the right to reject any bid if the evidence submitted by, or investigation of, such Bidder fails to satisfy the Owner that such Bidder is properly qualified to carry out the obligations of the Agreement and to complete the work contemplated therein.

Each Bidder is responsible for inspecting the Project site(s) and for reading and being thoroughly familiar with the Contract Documents and Specifications. The failure or omission of any Bidder to do any of the foregoing shall in no way relieve any Bidder from any obligation with respect to its Bid.

Wage rates on the project shall not be less than the federal wage scale published by the U.S. Department of Labor, please see Appendix A for the Wage Determination.

Bidders on this work shall be required to comply with the provisions of the President’s Executive Order No. 11246, as amended. The Bidders shall also comply with the requirements of 41 CFR Part 60 - 4 entitled Construction Contractors - Affirmative Action Requirements.

Bidders shall be aware of the requirements set by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law of 2021, which mandate that all iron and steel, manufactured products, and construction materials used in a federal project must be produced in the United States. Pursuant to HUD’s Notice, “Public Interest Phased Implementation Waiver for FY 2022 and 2023 of Build America, Buy America Provisions as Applied to Recipients of HUD Federal Financial Assistance” (88 FR 17001), any funds obligated by HUD on or after the applicable listed effective dates, are subject to BABA requirements, unless excepted by a waiver. The Bidders attention is also called to the “Minority/Women Owned Business Participation” and “Indiana Veteran Owned Small Business Program” requirements contained in the Project Specifications. The State of Indiana has set a goal of 10% participation for minority and women owned businesses and 3% participation of veteran owned businesses for construction or purchase related contracts for the work. The Contractor must meet guidelines and practices established by the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs and appropriate federal regulations including: 1) Executive Order 11246, 2) Section 3 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1968, as amended, 3) Certification of Non-Segregated Facilities, 4) OMB Circular A-102, 5) Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 6) Section 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 7) Age Discrimination Act of 1975, 8)