The Mail-Journal - September 6, 2023

Chautauqua-Wawasee holds local history event

This month is Indiana Archaeology Month, and ChautauquaWawasee and the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum kicked it off by partnering up for their fourth annual series of programs exploring the local history of northeastern Indiana Saturday, Sept. 2.

The program, held at the Wawasee Conservancy Foundation, featured a variety of activities showcasing life in the 1800s. Costumed reenactors included a French marine, a duo of frontiersmen and a fur trader, all of whom showed off artifacts, some real and some reproductions, and gave presentations about the relationships between pioneers and the local Native Americans.

There was also a live flintknapping demonstration, a booth where attendees could bring their own historical artifacts to be appraised, and a display of objects found around Lake Wawasee via metal detector, including a handson metal detector demonstration.

Museum Director Jamie Clemons gave a live demonstration of a historical weapon called an atlatl, inviting attendees to try one

New logo announced at trails fundraiser

A new trail logo for the Syracuse-Wawasee Trails was introduced Thursday, Aug. 31, during the third annual Life Is Better On The Trails event. The event was held at The Owl’s Nest, North Webster.

Amanda Plank, executive director, stated the committee has been “working on who we are moving forward. What is our brand? What does it look like?”

She unveiled the new logo for the first time that evening.

“We wanted to capture who we are across Syracuse and Wawasee from the sun to the lake to the beautiful surroundings that we have...”

What is neat about the new logo, according to Plank, is that there are several variations. She displayed a few, which included a walker, a runner and a biker. “No matter what, we make sure you can use our trails.”

Plank stated, “it takes a village to maintain and to expand upon trails like ours.” While it has only been six to seven weeks since she started as executive director, she stated, “our future is really bright. I’m proud to be a member of this organization.”

Plank referred to the 110 page feasibility study done in 2021. “It’s a real challenge raising funds for an organization like this, but we’ve found some really cool opportunities out there.” She noted the extension around the lakes and to get to Wawasee South. “This is what we are really excited to do.”

Wawasee South, as explained by Plank, is a trail to Wawasee Middle School, which she is “excited about. It really creates some cool pathways for our kiddos and parents.”

She pointed out the Conklin Bay trail ends at Grandview Drive and Wawasee South

would extend from that point. The extension, according to Plank, will “takes us all the way to the middle school, which is really exciting.”

Plank expressed the importance of the trails by relating a personal matter. Her father, who had heart attack last year, was told after surgery to “get up on your feet and start moving ASAP.” He utilized the Conklin Bay trails. “My dad is healthy today, partly due to these trails...” When she visited the area a couple of months ago she saw the completed trail system. “My dad told me that those were the trails he was using. So thank you on behalf of people like my dad, as well as if you’re just walking your dog, looking for a great place to ride your bike, go on a run, these trails are really the things to do it on.”

Future funding was addressed. Plank stated there were several major seven figure grant opportunities available. “We’re talking millions out there,” Plank said, naming a few, such as the NextLevel Trails, Greenway Foundation, American Trails and the K21 Foundation. “These are incredible opportunities for us to get those really large, life-changing grants.”

However, she noted there was a bit of a hoop the committee needs to jump through. The grants carry a 20% matching fund. “Which means for every $1 million grant we apply for, we need to raise $200,000. ... So basically, tonight, if you make a donation we are going to put that into a reserve to be able to even by eligible to apply for a grant like this. Until now, we have not had those in reserves. So every single dollar will be quadrupled by one of these different grant opportunities if we get awarded, which is incredible. It’s not very often that you

Continued on page 2 out for themselves. According to Clemons, the atlatl is a predecessor to the bow and arrow. It dates back about 20,00 years and has been used by humans in cultures all over the world. Clemons commented on the day and the importance of historical programs like these, saying, “I just don’t want people to think that the people who were here before us were backwards.”

Timeline From The Past: A look at North Webster history

Editor’s note: This is a retrospective article that runs a few times a month on InkFreeNews. com. The following is information from a 1934 article. The following information is from the files of the Kosciusko County Historical Society

Sept. 6, 1934 — North Webster, until the early 1870s, was known as Boydston’s Mills. That was the name of its post office until it was changed to the name the town now bears. A brief history of Tippecanoe township follows: The Indians

New logo

Continued from page 1 see a really large grant like this, like any one of these.”

She stated that funds from the live auction, silent auction and paddle raise will “definitely help us get to where we’re going, our ticket to expansion.”

There were 14 items up for bid in the silent auction, ranging from a family all-sports pass for Wawasee High School home games to baskets of goodies with gift certificates, wine, tumblers, gift items, a round of golf at Maxwelton, floral delivery for a year, and more.

The live auction included several framed photographs, flowers, an electric bicycle, water tube, and table and chairs.

The live auction brought in approximately $5,000. During the paddle raise, donations totalled approximately $3,500. Information on funds raised through the silent auction was not available.

The evening was opened by Kay Young, president, welcoming guests, recognizing sponsors and introducing Plank.

SPEC hosting casino trip Sept. 18

I hope you all had a safe, fun Labor Day. We here at the center are ready to take on September.

I can’t believe how fast summer has gone by.

Here are few things to put on your calendar. Toni’s Foot Connection will be here Wednesday, Sept. 13; call to schedule an appointment.

The casino trip to South Bend is scheduled for Monday, Sept. 18; the bus leaves from our parking

lot at 8:30 a.m. and from Lowe’s in Warsaw at 9 a.m. Payment for the trip should be turned in by Wednesday, Sept. 13. A euchre tournament will be Thursday, Sept. 21. There’s a $2 buy in and cash prizes for first place, second place, most loaners and low score. It is a lot of fun. We’ve had some wonderful donations for our thrift shop. A lot of new times have been brought in. Come on in and check it out. For questions about any of these events, call me at (574) 8341600, ext. 224.

Previous to 1833, what is now Tippecanoe Township, was inhabited entirely by the Pottowatomie and the Miami Indians. John and Bill Squabuck and their followers constituted a clan that was part of the Pottowatomie tribe, which belonged to the Algonquin family. Another clan, which was a part of the Miami tribe, was also found here. Some of these Indians were located about one mile northwest of North Webster and the remainder, on the southeast bank of the Barbee Lake. By the time the white settlers came here, the Indians were pacified and on friendly relations with the Whites. In 1846, the government bought the land from the Indians and hired two men, Mr. French and Mr. Jacoby, to take the Indians across the Missouri River. Schools

The first school was taught by Thomas K. Warner in the winter of 1838-39. The school was an abandoned log cabin built by Warren Warner. It was located about three-fourths of a mile east of North Webster on what is now known as the Ritter farm. In 1841, a second school located two miles northwest of North Webster had its origin. Benjamin Johnson was the first teacher.

Four years later, in 1845, saw the beginning of a school in North Webster, with Abraham Deardorff being the first teacher.

The schoolhouses of this time were small log houses, poorly lighted and heated by fireplaces. The light was admitted through windows made of greased paper. The desks were long slab benches without backs. Books were scarce, making it necessary for several children to use one book. Few subjects were taught:

reading, writing, arithmetic and spelling constituting the curriculum, with most emphasis placed on spelling. The first schools were subscription schools, and were poorly attended. In 1852, the subscription school was superseded by the public school, and a steady marked improvement was seen from the first. At present, the school system of the township ranks among the best.

In 1910, at the completion of the new high school building in North Webster, all of the county schools but four were abandoned and the policy of centralization was begun. The township now maintains a four-year high school with an enrollment of 48. The enrollment in the grades is 227 making a total of 275 for the township.

North Webster Stores Today

At the present time, there are three general stores, the proprietors being W.H. Bockman, David A. Lawrence and Jeff Garber. There is one garage, operated by Harrison Weade, one blacksmith shop, run by Philip Beghtel and one canning factory, operated by D.M. Garber. The town also has two doctors’ offices, those of Dr. Lyon and Dr. Druley, two drugstores owned by W.C. Hontz and A.B. Ervin and one under-

taking establishment, owned by Ira Rothenberger. It is one of few towns of its size having an auto hearse and ambulance. Sam Miller and John Kline own the hardware store, while the implement store is owned by James Stump and Charles Howell. Earl Angel owns the restaurant, Clint Steward, the meat market and Charles Hall, the barber shop. There are three churches and a school house. William Yohn owns the grist mill, which is located near the outlet of Webster Lake. The town has a population of 239. There are other stores scattered throughout the township, two at the summer resort on Barbee Lake and two at Dutchtown.

The Post office

The first post office was established at Boydston’s Mills in 1848. Thomas G. Boydston was the first postmaster, and an empty flour barrel did duty as a general delivery. In 1861, the post office was moved to North Webster and Eli Beghtel was appointed postmaster. In 1862, it was again removed to the mill, a mile distant from the village and it was later moved back to Webster where it is still located.

Compiled by staff reporter Lasca Randels

Lake City Lions calling crafters for Oct. 7 show

The Lake City Lions Club of Warsaw will be hosting its annual fall craft show from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7, at the Home and Family Arts Building at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds, Warsaw. Spaces are still available for crafters who are interested. The

fees are $40 for a 10-foot by 10foot space with table and chairs, or $35 for a space with chairs where the crafter provides their own table. Interested crafters should contact Robin Claassen at (260) 6151138 and leave a message to receive an application.

Kosciusko County Property Tax Assessment Board Of Appeals meeting in October

The Kosciusko County Property Tax Assessment Board of Appeals will meet at 9:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 2, in the Old Courtroom on the third floor of the Kosciusko County Court-

house, downtown Warsaw, to start its annual meetings for 2023. The board will also be meeting at 9:30 a.m. Mondays, Oct. 9, Oct. 16, Oct. 23 and Oct. 30.

Plant trees this fall for decades of benefits

Fall is a great time to plant trees in the landscape. The soil is warm and air temperatures are generally cooler, creating a better environment for the tree and the gardener doing the planting. The cooler temperatures promote root growth which helps the tree establish a more robust root system before new growth begins the following spring.

Proper planting as well as timing is important for growing healthy long-lived trees that provide shade, reduce energy costs, help manage storm water and so much more. Reduce the risk of injury, inconvenience, and expense by calling 811 at least three business days before putting the first shovel in the ground. This free service contacts all the utility companies who will mark the location of the underground utilities in your work area. Look up and avoid planting trees under overhead utilities.

Select trees suited to the growing conditions and those that will fit the available space once they reach full size. Trying to keep a 40-foot-tall tree at 15 feet negatively impacts the tree’s natural beauty and requires lots of work on your part.

Once you select the right tree for the location make sure to give it a safe ride home. Transporting the tree in a pickup truck or trailer is easier for you and better for the tree. If this is not an option, consider spending a bit more money to have the nursery safely deliver your tree.

When transporting your tree, use a tarp to cover the top of the tree to prevent wind damage to its leaves. Protect the trunk by wrapping it with a towel where it will rest on the vehicle. Always move the tree by the root ball, not the trunk, to prevent damage to the roots.

Keep your tree in a cool, shaded location until planting. Mulch balled-and-burlapped trees with wood chips to help keep their roots moist. Water these and

container-grown trees daily or as often as needed to keep the roots slightly moist.

Locate the tree’s root flare, also called the trunk flare. This is where the main roots angle away from the trunk. Dig the planting hole to the same depth as the distance between the root flare and the bottom of the root ball so the root flare is at or slightly above the soil surface. Digging deeper can result in the soil settling and water collecting in the depression around your tree. Make the hole at least three to five times wider than the root ball.

Roughen the sides of the planting hole to avoid glazed soil that can prevent the roots from growing into the surrounding soil. Carefully remove containergrown trees from the pot and loosen or slice pot bound and girdling roots circling the trunk and root ball before planting.

Place the tree in the planting hole so the trunk is straight and the tree is facing the desired direction. Remove the tags and twine and cut away any wire bas-

kets and burlap on balled-andburlapped trees.

Fill the planting hole with existing soil so the roots adjust to their new environment. Avoid amending the soil as this encourages the roots to stay in the planting hole instead of moving out into the surrounding soil.

Water thoroughly to settle the soil and moisten the root ball and surrounding soil. Spread a two- to three-inch layer of wood chips or shredded bark over the soil surface surrounding the tree. Pull the mulch back several inches from the trunk. Mulching helps conserve moisture, moderate soil temperature, reduce competition from grass, and prevent weeds. It also keeps tree-damaging mowers and weed whips away from the tree trunk while eliminating the need for you to hand trim.

Only remove broken, damaged, and rubbing branches at the time of planting. Research shows that the more leaves a tree has, the more energy it can produce, and the quicker it develops new roots and recovers from transplant

shock. Begin structural pruning in a few years once the tree has adjusted to its new home. Continue watering as needed. It takes several years for trees to develop a robust root system that is better able to access water from a larger area. Water thoroughly when the top four to six inches of soil is crumbly and moist. Apply enough water to wet the top twelve inches of soil.

The time you invest in proper planting and care will pay off in years of enjoying the shade, beauty, and other benefits your tree provides.

Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the recently released Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” instant video and DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and her website is www.MelindaMyers.com.

Obituaries

James S. Hostetler

Retired From Chore-Time Brock

James S. Hostetler, a devoted family man, hard worker and lifetime member of the community, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023, at Goshen Hospital.

Born in Warsaw on March 4, 1942, James led a fulfilling life filled with love, laughter and meaningful connections.

“Jim,” as most knew him, attended Warsaw High School, where he laid the foundation for a successful future. After completing his education, he embarked on a career at Chore-Time Brock in Milford. For an impressive span of 21 years, James contributed his skills and dedication to the company before retiring in 2006.

Outside of his professional endeavors, James had many interests and passions that brought joy to his life. He possessed an exceptional talent for playing euchre and would often engage in friendly competitions with family and friends. Being outdoors was one of his greatest pleasures; he found solace in nature and embraced every opportunity to immerse himself in its beauty. One of his favorite outdoor activities was meticulously mowing lawns not only for himself but also for others as an act of kindness throughout the years.

His garage was a sanctuary where he eagerly tinkered and meticulously crafted various woodwork projects. James had an innate skill as a carpenter and took great pride in creating beautiful pieces with precision and care. Riding his four-wheelers, Gator and golf carts brought him great entertainment and a chance to visit with neighbors.

Those who were fortunate enough to know James will remember him for his sense of humor that could brighten even the darkest moments. He had a way of uplifting others with his infectious laughter and witty remarks. Family always held a special place in James’ heart; he cherished spending time with them above all else and lived each day with unwavering devotion.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife, Joy (Faulkner) Hostetler of 63 years, who stood by his side through thick and thin.

In addition to his immediate family, James leaves behind a rich legacy carried on by his daughter, Angie (Jeff Arnett) Hostetler of Milford; and son, Clark (Kim) Hostetler of Goshen; grandchildren, Ryan (Angela) Hostetler of Leesburg, Brett (Melanie Guy) Haines of Milford, Erin (Victor Childs) Hostetler of Syracuse, Sierra Kidder of Elkhart and John Reed of Elkhart; nine great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Mary Hostetler of Fishers.

He was preceded in death by his two sons, Brent and Darin Hostetler; grandson, Dustin Hostetler; mother, Ruthlene (Fifer) Hostetler; and two brothers, Rex and Harvey Hostetler.

The family has entrusted Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1001 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. The family will be grieving privately; no services will be held.

Earl Eugene Stutzman

United State Navy Veteran

Earl Eugene Stutzman, known to most as “Gene,” passed away at the age of 93 on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023, at Paddock Springs Healthcare. He was a lifetime resident in Kosciusko County.

Born to Delbert and Mary Miller Stutzman on May 5, 1930, Gene attended schools in Nappanee before honorably serving in the United States Navy. He was blessed to find love twice as Gene spent more than 47 years married to Ruth L. Klopenstein. Later he was married to Jean Korthal Smith who survives at home; they were married for 21 years.

A hard worker, Gene dedicated himself to each of his employers. He is remembered for his time at Weatherhead, as the owner and operator of Stutzman Photography Studio and at Zimmer from where he retired in 1995. More personally, he is remembered a man of strong Christian faith; he is a former member of New Salem Church of the Brethren and a longtime member of North Webster Church of God.

In addition to his wife, Jean Stutzman of Warsaw, those who survive include son, Brent (Nancy) Stutzman of Brownsburg; two daughters, Becky (Bill) Butterfield of Mustang, Okla., and Debra Stutzman of Lafayette; sister, Sally Guard of Nappanee; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and three stepsons, Kip (Debbie) Smith of Bloomington, Jay (Patty) Smith of Bargersville and Tim (Judy) Smith of Mentone.

In addition to his first wife, Ruth, and his parents, Delbert and Mary, Gene was preceded in passing by six siblings, Oliver, Olen, William, Gary, Lucille and Betty.

Titus Funeral Home of North Webster is entrusted with the care of Gene and the family. Services were held Tuesday, Sept. 5, at North Webster Church of God, 302 N. Main St., North Webster. Visitors gathered from 1-3 p.m. A life celebration service followed at the church. Burial was at Leesburg Cemetery.

Memorials should be considered to the Red Cross of Northeast Indiana or to North Webster Church of God with envelopes available at the service.

Written condolences may be left for the family at www.titusfuneralhome.com.

Clark Reed Crafton

1961 Milford High School Graduate

UPDATED

Clark Reed Crafton, 79, Indianapolis, passed away Sept. 10, 2022.

He was born July 29, 1943, to Harold K. Crafton and Marian (Reed) Haab.

Preceding Clark in death was his sister, Carolyn, in 1970.

Clark was married to Nancy Waters. Nancy passed away on Nov. 7, 2014. They leave behind two sons, Reed and Ryan Crafton, both of Indianapolis. In November 1977, Clark married Lana Roberts. They divorced in 1993.

Clark grew up in Milford and graduated from Milford High School in 1961. He was a member of the Milford High School Trojans basketball team. The team won the Kosciusko County basketball tournament in 1961 and continued on to win a four-way tourney held in Larwill. The Trojans eventually lost a bid to Columbia City to be sectional basketball champions.

Clark continued his basketball career at Indiana Central College (University of Indianapolis) and gained All-American status at the college level.

Arrangements for Clark were entrusted to the Cremation Society of Indiana.

Steven Engle

Steven Engle, 75, Leesburg died unexpectedly Saturday, Sept. 2, 2023.

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

Births

Emelia Kopp

Jeffrey Kopp II and Veronica Sanchez, Syracuse, are the parents of a daughter, Emelia, born at 6:12 p.m. Aug. 30, 2023, at Goshen Hospital. She weighed 7 pounds, 10.1 ounces, and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Yakym announces district staff mobile office hours for September

Congressman Rudy Yakym announced the following dates, times, and locations that his office will be holding mobile staff office hours in September throughout Indiana’s Second District. Mobile office hours will allow for Congressman Yakym’s staff to assist constituents with casework questions: Elkhart County

Noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 7, Wakarusa Public Library, 124 N. Elkhart St., Wakarusa.

Apps can save you time and money

Do you find yourself getting confused on what apps to download when you purchase a phone or tablet? Learn about helpful apps that will make your life easier. Join Purdue Extension for this free educational program presented by Emily Christ, Purdue University Extension Educator in Health & Human Sciences in

Elkhart County. This program is being offered at 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21 in-person at the Purdue Extension Elkhart County office. If you would like to join the program, register by calling Jenn at the Extension Office at (574) 5330554 or emailing fink24@purdue. edu. This program and all programs of the Purdue University Extension Service are open to everyone. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, call Emily Christ at (574) 533-0554 two weeks prior to the program.

Questions to ask about drugs

Many patients, especially older adults, don’t ask their doctors or pharmacists about the prescription drugs they take.

With the availability of so many sources of medical information, including direct-to-consumer advertising, it’s critical for patients to seek expert opinion about any treatment or medication plan.

To help you get the proper information before taking prescription medicine, a list of questions has been prepared by various medical sources. They are:

1. For what specific condition or treatment are you prescribing this medicine?

2. Are there other treatment options available? Alternative drugs? Generics?

3. How am I directed to take this medicine? When? In what amount? With or without food?

4. How long will I remain on this medication (longterm for a chronic condition or short term for an acute condition)?

5. What are the potential side effects of this medicine?

6. Under what circumstances should I discontinue use of this medication and notify my physician? For example, vomiting, nau-

sea, or dizziness?

7. Are there conditions that would prevent me from taking this medication, such as high blood pressure?

8. Have I told my doctor about all other medications I’m taking, both over-the-counter and prescription?

9. If I am taking other medications, is there an increased risk for potential side effects or adverse reactions?

10. After reading the information provided by the drug manufacturer and my pharmacist, do I have additional questions?

Experts also advise patients to:

• Provide every physician treating you with an up-to-date list of prescribed and over-the-counter medications being taken.

• Alert any healthcare professional treating you (including your pharmacist) to details of your personal and family history that might impact your tolerance for or reaction to a particular medication.

• Take prescribed medication exactly as indicated; never exceed or skip a recommended dosage.

• Educate yourself about potential side effects and adverse reactions that could occur.

• Never borrow prescribed medications from or lend them to anyone.

11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9, Goshen Chamber of Commerce, 232 S. Main St., Goshen.

10-11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26, Nappanee City Hall, 300 W. Lincoln St., Nappanee. Kosciusko County

10-11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 7,

Bell Memorial Library, 101 W. Main St., Mentone.

10-11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 15, Etna Green Town Hall, 106 S.

The First Woman To Hold The Position — Indiana Republican Party elects Anne Hathaway as chair

The Indiana Republican State Committee on Thursday, Aug. 31, unanimously elected consultant Anne Hathaway as the party’s next chair, making her the first woman to run the Indiana Republican Party.

Current head Kyle Hupfer said earlier this month that he’s stepping down once his successor’s in place.

“I want to thank Kyle Hupfer for his outstanding leadership over the years and the members of the state committee for putting their trust in me to continue moving our party forward,” Hathaway said in a statement.

“We have an incredible opportunity to do just that by helping elect even more Republicans in cities and towns across the state this November, and that will be our top priority over these next two months,” she continued. “At the same time, we will continue to engage our grassroots supporters and prepare to do our part in making Joe Biden a oneterm president, sending Jim Banks to the U.S. Senate, and electing another Republican to the governor’s office.”

Hathaway is president and CEO of Indianapolis-based Hathaway Strategies, a public affairs consulting firm. She’s also executive director of the Richard G. Lugar Excellence in Public Service Series, which seeks to increase the influence of Republican women in politics and governance.

She has long maintained deep involvement in Republican politics.

Hathaway is additionally a

member of the Indiana Republican Party’s central committee and has served as Indiana’s national committeewoman to the Republican National Committee since 2018.

That year, Holcomb recommended her and the state central committee elected her to the role.

Currently, she’s leading the national committee charged with running the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Previously Hathaway was a scheduling director and public liaison — as well as an assistant — for Vice President Dan Quayle and an assistant at the U.S. Treasury Department. She was also a member of Holcomb’s own transition team when he took office as governor.

“I applaud the state committee for their fantastic selection of Anne Hathaway to lead our party,” Hupfer said in a statement. “Anne is a long-time friend, an incredible grassroots leader, and one of the best political minds in the country. I know that under her leadership, the Indiana Republican Party will be in good hands.”

Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb nominated Hathaway as the state GOP chief last week. He said in a statement Thursday that his top pick “has a distinguished career serving the Republican Party at the local, state, and national levels.”

“Her knowledge, relationships, and ability to connect with and bring folks together to advance a common cause will prove invaluable as we work to elect even more Republicans across the state,” Holcomb said. “I’m excited to see her get to work.”

Accidents/Incidents

Kosciusko County

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

Accidents

10:27 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 31, North of SR 13, south of East CR 500N, Leesburg. Driver: Lucas R. Osterhout, 25, Stonewall Run, Fort Wayne. Osterhout’s vehicle left the roadway, hitting a caution sign and post. Damage up to $5,000.

6:48 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 30, North SR 15, north of West CR 1000N, Milford. Driver: Troy J. Snyder, 52, Grove Park Drive, Columbia City. Snyder’s vehicle hit a deer. Damage up to $10,000.

4:35 a.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 30, 12968 N. 300W, Milford. Driver: Darrell S. Hutcherson, 50, West First Street, Milford. Hutcherson’s vehicle left the roadway,

traveling across an open dirt field and hitting an excavator. Hutcherson said he lost consciousness during the accident. He was taken to a local hospital for lacerations to his left arm, legs and head. Damage up to $25,000.

Incident

2:28 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 24, 9800 block North Skyline Drive, Syracuse. A representative from Kosciusko County REMC reported theft.

Milford

Officers with the Milford Police Department investigated the following incident:

Incident

8:13 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 3, 300 block North Main Street, Milford. Gary T. Leer reported criminal mischief to a building.

North Webster

Officers with the North Web-

Milford woman cited for car crash

A Milford woman was involved in a car crash at 7:06 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 31, on CR 17 at the intersection of CR 20 in Elkhart County. Katlin Vanfleeren, 19, Milford, was driving her 2004 Ford Explorer northbound on CR 17 and was turning left at the intersection of CR 20 when a 2017 Chevrolet Cruz, driven by Anna Mooney, 28, Elkhart, who was going southbound on CR 17, collided with Vanfleeren’s vehicle.

Vanfleeren’s vehicle over-

ster Police Department investigated the following accident: Accident

1:39 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 31, East Washington Street and North SR 13, North Webster.

Driver: Megan Dues, 32, Bayshore Drive, Syracuse. Dues’ vehicle backed into an unoccupied car. Damage up to $5,000.

Syracuse

Officers with the Syracuse Police Department investigated the following incidents and made the following arrests: Incidents

4:42 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 30, 200 block South Edgewater Drive, Syracuse. Trinity Johnson reported a dog coming onto her property and attacking her dog.

10:11 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 30, 300 block South Huntington Street, Syracuse. Steven Woods reported a theft. Value: $48.

12:23 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 27, 100 block North Huntington Street, Syracuse. Margaret Camp reported a theft. Value: $7.01.

Arrests

Nathan Scherer announces candidacy for Kosciusko County Northern Commissioner

Nathan Scherer, a dedicated resident of Kosciusko County, has officially declared his intention to run for the position of Kosciusko County Northern Commissioner. With a deep commitment to his community and a wealth of experience in both business and public service, Scherer aims to tackle the challenges facing the county and ensure a prosperous future for its residents.

Scherer has spent the majority of his life in Kosciusko County and has raised a family here alongside his wife, Lauren. Their four children, Preston, Carson, Parker, and Elin, represent the heart of his dedication to creating a vibrant and secure environment for families within the county. This commitment has fueled Scherer’s desire to serve as a county commissioner.

Scherer’s extensive business background is a testament to his leadership abilities. He successfully founded a company at the young age of 23 and managed it with

advocate, and a business leader, I am motivated to ensure that Kosciusko County remains a place of opportunity, growth, and strong family values,” Scherer stated. With a steadfast faith and a deep involvement in community activities, Scherer is well-prepared to take on the responsibilities of a county commissioner. His active participation in non-profit organizations, such as Joes Kids, as well as coaching various youth athletic teams, highlights his dedication to nurturing the potential of young individuals and securing a bright future for the next generation.

turned as a result of the crash and her vehicle sustained damage all over, according to the Elkhart County Sheriff’s Office accident report. Vanfleeren was cited for failure to yield while making a left turn.

Mooney was taken to Goshen Hospital by ambulance for minor bleeding in her mouth from the airbag. Vanfleeren was examined by medics on the scene and declined further medical treatment. Her vehicle sustained front-end damage.

Holcomb rolls out next $500 million for READI 2.0

Governor Eric Holcomb has announced details of the Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative

2.0, which was part of his 2023 Next Level Agenda and approved by the Indiana General Assembly in this year’s legislative session. The second round of $500 million was a direct response to the significant demand for quality of place investments from communities across the state.

“Innovation knows no boundaries and there’s no limit to what can be accomplished when we work together to better the lives of Hoosiers,” Holcomb said, “this transformative program will fund projects that lean into a region’s strengths while building community gathering places, accessible parks, performing arts centers and expanding the trail system that will have generational impacts across each region and with every person who visits our great state. In Indiana, there is no greater priority for us as leaders than to work in unison to improve Indiana’s standing as the best location to live, work, play, study and stay.”

The READI program, launched by Holcomb in 2021 and funded with an initial $500 million appropriation, continues to accelerate and gain national recognition. Communities and regions across the state have been preparing for the anticipated second round of funding, demonstrating the ambition of Indiana regions and the enthusiasm for investments in Hoosier neighborhoods, talent and innovation.

The first round of the nationally recognized READI program has awarded regions over $487 million of the initiative’s original $500 million in the form of grants. These funds will support 361 unique quality of place, quality of life, quality of opportunity and workforce projects and programs across all 17 Indiana READI regions. These projects are made possible by a combined

$12.2 billion of public, private and nonprofit dollars invested to transform communities. On average, every dollar provided by the state was matched with $26 from outside entities that will attract and develop talent and enhance the lives of current and future generations of Hoosiers.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation announced funding awards in December 2021, allocating READI’s $500 million to 17 regions in Indiana, and began working collaboratively with regions last year to begin designating match funding to specific, shovel-ready projects and programs. Less than two years later, transformational investments are already underway across the state. Details on READI 1 projects underway can be found at indianareadi.com.

READI 2.0 projects will be focused primarily on population growth and quality of life investments.

READI 2.0 timeline:

September 2023 - February

2024: regions develop funding proposals.

Sept. 26, 2023: Q3 IEDC

READI Forum in Muncie.

September 2023 - February

2024: IEDC visits each participating region to see READI 1.0 investments and discuss future vision and strategy.

December 2023: Q4 IEDC READI forum.

Feb. 23, 2024: regional proposals due to the IEDC.

April 2024: Proposed IEDC board approval of investment commitments and allocations to regions. The exact date will be announced at a later time.

May 2024: IEDC begins coordination with regions in identifying regionally significant capital and infrastructure projects for investment.

For more information about READI 2.0, including program structure, eligibility requirements, metrics, goals, focus areas and application details, visit indianareadi.com/resources.

3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 30, 4500 block East CR 1300N, Syracuse. Charity Yoder, 54, 151 Metzler Ave., Nappanee, was arrested and transported to the Kosciusko County Jail for the possession of methamphetamine and marijuana, possession of paraphernalia and the delinquency of a minor. She was arrested after police conducted a traffic stop and officers smelled marijuana permeating from the vehicle.

3:27 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 26, 1100 block North Indiana Avenue, Syracuse. While conducting a traffic stop, officers noticed the driver, Carlos Arturo Montalvo, 26, 1605 S. 16th St., Goshen, smelled of alcohol and he could not produce a driver’s license. Montalvo failed multiple field sobriety tests and was arrested for operating while intoxicated and operating without obtaining a license.

Jail Bookings

Kosciusko County

The following people were booked in the Kosciusko County Jail:

Sept. 5 — John Clay Heeter, 50, 14 EMS B3B Lane, Leesburg, booked for manufacturing/dealing methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hypodermic syringe or needle, possession of paraphernalia, possession of cocaine or a narcotic drug, possession of a legend drug or precursor, possession of marijuana/hash oil/ hashish and unlawful carrying of a handgun. Bond: $25,250 surety and cash.

Sept. 4 — Kim. L Hartman, 71, 71 EMS T31 Lane, Leesburg, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Bond: $700.

Aug. 28 — John Anthony Perales, 35, 9615 N. 100E, Milford, booked for a probation violation. No bond.

proficiency for nearly two decades.

This experience has provided him with valuable insights into the challenges that families in the community face, particularly in terms of job opportunities, economic stability, and childcare.

“As a family man, a community

Alvarado arrested for battering man, illegally possessing Adderall

A Syracuse woman was arrested for allegedly battering a man while in the presence of three children.

Jesseca Lanee Alvarado, 34, 509 Meadow View Drive, Syracuse, is charged with domestic battery with a child under 16 present and possession of a legend drug, both level 6 felonies; and domestic battery, a class A misdemeanor.

On Sunday, Aug. 6, a Syracuse Police officer responded to a fight in which Alvarado scratched and punched a man.

According to court documents, Alvarado said the man “antagonized” her by throwing her belongings outside, which led to her battering him.

The man said he and Alvarado were talking when a verbal argument ensued. Alvarado became upset and started telling the man to get her belongings, but later told the man to put her belongings down.

He admitted to throwing six of Alvarado’s shirts outside and said Alvarado hit his face, leaving the right side of his face red with swollen scratch marks. The man also said a child witnessed the battery and two additional children were in the home when the incident occurred.

While she was being taken into custody, officers found a

Court News

Marriage Licenses

Kosciusko County

The following couple have applied for a marriage license in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court Ann Torpy: Woods-Henry

Jayne E. Woods, 33, Syracuse, and Jason E. Henry, 44, Syracuse

Marriage Dissolutions

Elkhart County

The following couple have filed a marriage dissolution in Elkhart Superior Court: White — April Nichole White, no town noted, and Allen Stewart White III, Milford, without children.

small bag containing Adderall on Alvarado’s person. Alvarado does not have a prescription for the drug.

Alvarado has already been arrested and released on bond. She has an initial hearing at 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 14.

Scherer’s ongoing involvement with the Noble County EDC board and the Syracuse Town Council underscores his commitment to public service. He recognizes the pressing need for individuals of his generation to step up and contribute to the county’s future success.

“I firmly believe that now is the opportune time for me to serve our county. We need fresh perspectives, dynamic leadership, and a commitment to preserving the values that make Kosciusko County exceptional,” Scherer asserted.

Scherer envisions a county where families thrive, businesses prosper, and the community remains a welcoming haven for residents of all ages. His dedication to fostering a vibrant future for Kosciusko County positions him as a compelling candidate for county commissioner.

Smith arrested for allegedly interacting with a child in inappropriate manner

A Warsaw man was recently arrested for allegedly interacting with a child in an inappropriate manner.

Daniel Kay Smith, 54, Warsaw, is charged with child molesting, a level 4 felony; and criminal confinement, a level 5 felony.

On Aug. 26, a Syracuse Police officer went to the Veterans Memorial Park regarding a report of a man luring a child into a bathroom.

According to court documents, two people said the suspect jumped into a nearby channel. The officer saw the man floating on his back and was assisted by bystanders in a boat, who ferried the officer to the man.

The man, later identified as Smith, did not respond to the officer calling out to him. Upon being detained, when the officer asked him for his name, Smith kept asking why he was being ar-

rested and yelled “Bill of Rights” multiple times. He also asked the officer to put him back in the water and said he was with the CIA.

A man said he was in a home near the park when he noticed Smith lure a young child into a bathroom. The man said he didn’t feel the situation was right and went to intervene. When the man knocked on the bathroom door to ask Smith and the child if they were okay, Smith opened the door and said he was family friends with the child. Smith is not related to the child. When the child didn’t speak up, the man called police, and Smith attempted to flee on foot.

The child told officers they were at the park walking their dog when Smith tried to kiss them.

During an interview at the Safe Harbor Child Advocacy Center, the child said Smith grabbed their arm and kissed them on the cheek.

Smith has prior convictions for possession of methamphetamine, dealing meth, possession of two or more chemical reagents, burglary, and operating a vehicle as a habitual traffic violator. Smith was booked in the Kosciusko County Jail Aug. 27.

[U.S.P.S 325-840] ISSN 2834-3999 Vol. 62, No. 30

Consolidation of THE MILFORD MAIL (Est. 1888) and THE SYRACUSE-WAWASEE JOURNAL (Est. 1907)

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Head arrested for North Webster theft

Ryan V. Head, 33, 920 Anchorage Road, Lot 107, Warsaw, was recently arrested for stealing money from two businesses, one in North Webster.

Head has been charged with theft, a level 6 felony in one case and forgery and theft, both level 6 felonies, in a second case.

On Aug. 10, 2022, A Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office deputy spoke with the owner of Sterling Construction and Liberty Concrete in North Webster. The owner said Head used the business’s credit and WEX fuel cards to make unauthorized purchases.

According to court documents, the deputy reviewed surveillance footage from two local gas stations and saw Head using one

of the cards to purchase fuel. Head spoke to a KCSO detective Aug. 12, 2022.

During the interview, Head said he mistakenly grabbed the wrong credit card to make personal purchases.

The detective said there were 43 charges made to the card over a two- month period.

On Aug. 16, 2022, the business owner said she asked Head if he could repay the money he owed so he did not have to go to jail.

The total unauthorized purchases made by Head on the cards were $10,858.69.

Head paid $1,572.07 to the owner as payment toward the unauthorized purchases he made.

On May 11, a Warsaw Police officer responded to a complaint about an individual attempting to cash checks, which were stolen from Terry’s Automotive, Warsaw. The business’s owner said a bank representative contacted him to report an individual attempted to cash two checks, which were stolen from the business.

Both checks were made payable to Head in the total amount of $20,500.

Surveillance footage from a local bank showed Head beginning the process of opening a checking account, depositing one of the checks, and withdrawing cash.

Head was booked in the Kosciusko County Jail Friday, Sept. 1.

Country Corner Gift Shop revisited at museum

Every season, the SyracuseWawasee Historical Museum highlights a business fondly remembered from the past or a current business which has become a favorite with residents.

Letter to the editor White Cane Day collections

Dear Editor:

For 27 years the Syracuse Lions Club has sponsored Labor Day and Memorial Day weekend White Cane Day collections in front of local businesses, this year at Neighborhood Fresh and Teghtmeyer Ace Hardware. Each year the residents of our community and our lake visitors have responded generously and they did so again Saturday, Sept. 2, and Saturday, May 27.

Proceeds support Lions vision service projects that benefit the people in our community. Funds raised are used to provide eye-

We welcome readers’ letters.

glasses for children whose families cannot afford to purchase them. We also support the Indiana Lions Eye Bank, their corneal transplant program, surgical assistance grants and preschool vision screening program; Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired who provide services for visually impaired Wawasee Community School children; and Leader Dogs for the Blind.

A new project in its ninth year is Syracuse Lions screening the vision of all first-, third-, fifthand eighth-graders at Syracuse

Elementary and Wawasee Middle Schools to relieve our school nurses of this state mandated responsibility.

We thank all of you who generously donate to this worthy project, Neighborhood Fresh and Teghtmeyer Ace Hardware for allowing us to canvas at their stores and The Mail-Journal for publishing our press releases. This is just one example of how our local service clubs, residents and merchants work together to serve our Syracuse community.

Sincerely, Syracuse Lions Club

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Send letters to: The Mail-Journal, P. O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542 or dpatterson@the-papers.com.

Problem Solved —

This fall, the museum will showcase the iconic Country Corner Gift Shop owned by Fred and Emily Elstrod and later by Jennifer and Robert Seward.

Country Corner, built in 19513, opened first as an antique store and later became a gift shop run by Emily Elstrod. It was the first commercial building built by Buhrt Builders. Later, Jennifer Seward purchased the site and operated Country Corner from 1974-1999.

Allyson Ellis, a longtime Syracuse resident, worked at the Country Corner Gift Shop for three summers when she was 15, 16 and 17. “My older sister Jill Haughey and I worked there with Jean Miller, Opal Kime and Sharon Lavernier. I worked from 10 to 5 one day and 4-9 the next day.”

As many know, Country Corner was located in the current Pizza King building at 719 Huntington St. When shoppers went through the double doors of Country Corner, they immediately came upon the Christmas store set up with Currier and Ives ornaments, Santa Clauses and, according to Ellis, “all sorts of cool stuff. You felt like it was Christmas that very day.”

The wooden purses painted

with various local landmarks here in Syracuse were next to the Christmas area. Fabric purses by Margaret Smith were also available there. These cloth-covered purses showcased different patterns, flowers and animals.

Past the popular purses, shoppers found Waterford crystal and Fenton pieces. Alongside those pieces were all the items typically found in a country store such as kitchen supplies, towels and those popular red and white tablecloths. Past that was a gift shop.

“The first thing Fred Elstrod did with a new hire was to take him or her to the old cash register in the center of the store and see if that person could make change. He was a father figure for me. I remember dropping a glass which broke five other pieces as it fell to the floor. I was 15. Fred told me to stop crying and not worry about taking the cost out of my pay. He just said the incident was a lesson to be careful when dusting,” said Ellis.

Turquoise jewelry was popular at the store as were Minnetonka moccasins, which first came on the scene in 1946 and could be worn indoors and outdoors. Steward Nye copper jewelry, especially the pieces shaped like maple leaves, were always in demand. “Many people who lived on the lake, including Eli Lilly and Seth Ward, did their shopping at Country Corner,” said Ellis. “The ladies would get dressed up and shop.

Amazon gift card stolen, wrong card refunded

Angela Hoo orders a $200 gift card from Amazon, but it’s stolen from her doorstep. Amazon offers a refund, but then it refunds the wrong card. How can she fix this?

“I ordered a $200 gift card with a Christmas greeting card from Amazon last December.

When the box came to the office, the bottom of the box was opened and retaped over the original Amazon tape. I opened the box and the gift card was missing.

“I called Amazon customer service immediately and reported the stolen card to a customer representative. The representative told me someone had used the gift card already. He told me Amazon will investigate this situation and that someone would contact me.

“I waited two weeks and called Amazon again. Another repre-

sentative told me she would process the refund to my Amazon credit card. But when I checked my Amazon account and my credit card, that representative refunded the wrong gift card, not the stolen one.

“I complained again, and another person refunded $200 to my credit card. They refunded $200 on three different gift cards — one of them even an electronic gift card — but they were all the wrong ones. Now all three of those gift cards can’t be used.

“I filed a dispute with my credit card company. My bank said there was nothing they could do if Amazon delivered the package to me. I have all the emails from Amazon. They told me they closed the Amazon account of the person who used the stolen gift card, but they will not refund the $200. Please, can you help me get my stolen $200 gift card back?” — Angela Hoo, Foster City, Calif.

Answer As a rule, gift cards are like cash, and once they’re gone, they’re gone. But if Amazon promised to refund your $200, it should keep its promise. And after all you’ve been through, I’d say you definitely deserve something for your trouble.

As best I can tell, Amazon tried to help you, but it’s difficult to know where things went wrong without a paper trail. Most of the communication with Amazon happened by phone, so there’s no written record. I would always opt for the online chat option with Amazon and save the conversation for later, in case something happens.

Before I get to the resolution, I hope that after this experience, you’ll never order another physical gift card again. Once someone takes a plastic card, it’s as good as gone. The electronic version is safer.

If I had to be completely hon-

HATTON-SADLER FUNERAL CHAPELS

est, though, I’d advise you to avoid all gift cards if possible. A majority of scams I hear about these days involve a gift card. They are better for the business than they are for you.

But if you’ve already bought a gift card and are having a problem, you can always escalate your customer service problem to one of the Amazon customer service executives I list on my consumer advocacy site, elliott. org. And again, I would strongly advise creating a paper trail rather than making calls.

I’m scratching my head over why Amazon tried to refund

everything but your stolen gift card. That must have been some misunderstanding!

I can’t recall the last time Amazon refunded a lost gift card. But if a representative promised you a refund, it should deliver on that promise. I contacted Amazon on your behalf, and it refunded the correct $200 gift card.

Christopher Elliott is the founder of Elliott Advocacy (https://elliottadvocacy.org), a nonprofit organization that helps consumers solve their problems. Email him at chris@elliott.org or get help by contacting him at elliottadvocacy.org.

is Syracuse

We were very busy all the time waiting on customers, cleaning and unpacking new shipments.” Gifts purchased were carefully tucked in boxes or put in bags with lots of tissue paper plus a ribbon. “I spent the money I earned there ($1 an hour) to buy a big red piggy bank, a necklace with a turquoise roadrunner, a purse and a scarab bracelet,” said Ellis. The Country Corner exhibit will be showcased at the museum this fall. Admission is free and open to the public from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.

“Our families serving your family with professionalism, compassion and care.”

Warriors seek to keep momentum going

The entire roster for the Wawasee varsity football team made a rapid dash to find the WarHawk Traveling Trophy at the conclusion of its 34-21 win at Goshen Friday, Sept. 1. Senior quarterback Mason Shoemaker was one of the first players to lift up the trophy.

“It means everything,” Shoemaker said.

“We fought through four years of our high school career to get to this point and we’re just getting started. This means a lot but this is just the beginning for Wawasee.”

The win ended an eight-game losing streak for Wawasee and a five-game skid to Northern Lakes Conference foes. More importantly, the Warriors are now 1-0 in NLC play with Plymouth making the trip to Warrior Field 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8.

“It feels fantastic,” coach Jon Reutebuch said. “I’m happy for the boys. We overcame a lot. Did a great job with our mental toughness. We had flags flying

all over the place at the beginning of the game. First drive of the second half they drove it right down our throats and we had to answer and we did.”

Wawasee averaged only 12 points in its first two games but would more than double that number in just the first half at Goshen. It only took three plays for the Warriors to drive 60 yards for the first touchdown of the game. Senior Hunter Tinkey would run the ball across the goal line from 14 yards out to give Wawasee the early lead.

Goshen would tie the game on a blocked punt but Wawasee countered with 21 points in the second quarter. Junior Barrett Kelly and senior Brandon Kelly each had a rushing touchdown in the quarter with Brandon Kelly going 85 yards just before halftime.

The host RedHawks would cut the Warrior advantage to seven at 28-21 in the third quarter. Shoemaker responded with his second touchdown pass of the game to senior Derek Bontrager to keep Wawasee up by two scores.

“There were two (turning points). First half it was the long run right before halftime,” Reutebuch said. “That kind of busted things open for us and the kids were feeling really

Fast start for Warrior tennis

Wins are piling up for coach Vince Rhodes and the Wawasee tennis team as Rhodes can tell he has a special season in the works. The Warriors are off to an 11-2 start.

“For us it’s been a good start for sure,” Rhodes said. “It’s exciting to watch them now. All five courts they are all competitive and it’s not like we are getting blown off the court.”

The 3-2 win over Concord on Aug. 31, was the latest example of how Wawasee is competing in the Northern Lakes Conference. It was the first time the Warriors had gotten the better of the Minutemen in at least a decade.

“Ever since I started coaching it’s always been 2-3 or 1-4. This is the first time We’ve ever beat them since I started coaching,” Rhodes said.

One of the keys to the early success has been junior Joey Harper. Harper began the season 6-0 at No. 1 singles before losing match at the Bremen Invite on Aug. 26, Harper is one of the few players to practice the sport year-round.

“He puts a lot of time and effort into it all summer long and all winter long. It makes a big difference and it shows,” Rhodes said.

Harper won his match against Concord 6-3, 6-3. Rhodes feels Harper can compete with the best talent in the NLC and Northern Indiana.

“He’s going to be right up there,” Rhodes said. “It’s a mindset with him and once he understands and doesn’t get in his own head and starts playing his tennis he is as good as anybody in the conference

and our area.”

Helping the Wawasee top Concord was junior Brayden Miller earning a 7-5, 6-2 win at No. 3 singles.

The deciding point of the match came from junior Dane Cripe and senior Caden Pratt at No. 2 doubles. Pratt and Cripe won the first set 6-4 but struggled in the second set 0-6. The duo fought back in the third set with the match on the line and won the set 6-4.

“We’ve got the group this year who don’t give up,” Rhodes said.

“That’s the big key. We got a couple basketball players and baseball

players to come out and give us a little more athleticism and that seems to help out too.”

Wawasee hosted its own invitational Saturday, Sept. 2, and went 2-1 on the day to finish in second place.

Rhodes admits Goshen is likely to win the NLC but hopes to see his Warriors with a high finish. Wawasee began NLC play 2-0.

The next match is 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 7, at home against Northridge.

“Their attitudes have really changed,” Rhodes said. “They are buying in.”

WAWASEE HIGH SCHOOL Athlete of the Month

Titus Funeral Home Would Like To Recognize

Ally McClintic

As Our Athlete Of The Month

Ally has played volleyball all four years of high school. She is a hard worker and demonstrates great perseverance. Her encouragement and enthusiasm are contagious. She sets a great example for the younger players on the team. In addition to her many positive personality traits, she helps lead her team in aces and kills on the court.

good at halftime. The second half, after they came down and scored we came back down and scored again. That was the key.” Shoemaker finished with 204 yards passing despite not having one his favorite targets available in junior Bradyn Pike. Pike missed the game due to injury leaving Tinkey, Bontrager and senior Donovan Blair to carry the offense.

“We’re deep and I trust all my guys that we have out there. I wasn’t worried one bit. I love Pike but everybody else was ready to step up and do good and that’s exactly what they did,” Shoemaker said.

The Warrior defense held the RedHawks to just 19 yards passing. Wawasee also won the turnover battle forcing three fumbles and one interception.

Wawasee (1-2) has defeated

Plymouth each of the last two seasons and will try to make it three straight against the Rockies (1-2) Friday.

“We’ve got Plymouth at home,” Reutebuch said. “It’s a blackout. The kids will all be in black shirts. They will all be excited for that. Winning a game does a huge thing for confidence so the kids I think are going to play fast and hard and hunger for another win.”

Get to know Wawasee sophomore Abby Speicher. Speicher runs cross-country and is coming off a strong freshman year.

Favorite workout song? “Passionfruit” by Drake.

Best vacation destination? Cancun, Mexico.

Favorite quote from coach Doug Slabaugh? He doesn’t really have one.

After high school will you stay in Indiana or move out? I want to get out of the state or go to IU.

Action movie or com-

edy movie? Action movie.

Favorite movie? Talk to me.

How do you get through a hard meet? I listen to people talking to me on the sidelines.

How is your season going so far? It’s off to a good start. It’s definitely a lot better than last year.

Favorite athletic achievement at Wawasee? I made it to regionals last year. My freshman year. Goals for this year? I want to try and make it to state but I don’t know if I can do that.

Girls Golf

Aug. 30 — Wawasee fell to Concord and Warsaw with a team score of 206. The Lady Warriors were just four strokes back of Concord (202) as Warsaw won with a 163. Taelyn Tom led the Warriors with a 48. Francie McDonald shot a 51. Sept. 5 — The Lady Warriors lost to Fremont (183) with a team score of 210. Emma Young and Ava Couture led the team with a 51 each. Next match is 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Sept. 6, against Culver Academies at Maxwelton.

Boys Tennis

Sept. 5 — The Warriors were swept 5-0 to the RedHawks of Goshen. Wawasee falls to 11-3 and 2-1 in the Northern Lakes Conference. Next match is 5 p.m.

Thursday, Sept. 7, against Northridge at home.

Girls Soccer

Aug. 30 — The Lady Warriors fell to Bethany Christian 6-0. Sept. 2 — Wawasee lost to Goshen 9-0 to fall to 1-6. Next game is 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 6 at home against Central Noble.

Girls Volleyball

Aug. 31 — Wawasee lost in five sets on

the road to Plymouth 25-22, 18-25, 23-25, 259, 15-11. Junior Mackenzie Hackleman led the Lady Warriors with 13 kills while senior Jolie Likens added a team-high 25 digs. Wawasee falls to 6-5 and its next game is 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 7, at home against Goshen.

Cross-Country

Sept. 2 — The boys finished sixth at the Manchester Invite with six of its seven varsity runners earning personal records. Freshman Mason Worrell led the Warriors with a time 17:31. The girls finished 12 out of 25 teams with sophomore Mia Hodgson leading the team with a 19:55 for 10th overall. Junior Jasmine Hernandez was 28th overall and had a personal record time of 21:29. Sophomore America Benitez also had a personal record and was third on the team at a time of 23:59. Next meet is Tuesday Sept. 12 at Warsaw for another leg of the Northern Lakes Conference.

Junior Varsity Football Sept. 2 — Wawasee took out Garrett High School 20-12 to move to 3-0 this season. Next game is 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 9 at Plymouth.

Maxwelton Ladies League golf results

Deb Stauffer took home first place honors in a two-week game for the Maxwelton Ladies League to close out the month of August. Shannon Silcox was second. Linda O’Connor was the low putts champion. Honey Walters and Becky Arnold captured chip-in honors.

Sports

Warriors battle Panthers in physical game

An undermanned Wawasee soccer team gave it a go at NorthWood Tuesday, Sept. 5, and found itself even with the host Panthers in the second half. The Panthers would eventually prevail 2-1 but coach Jordan Sharp liked how his team battled a favored NorthWood team.

“I told the boys we just got to stay in the game and keep fighting. That’s what they did. When they do that they can create chances and make things happen,” Sharp said. “The boys need to know that if they work hard they can achieve these sorts of things.”

The Warriors had a few players out due to injury and had only enough numbers to play one half of junior varsity prior to

the varsity contest. Sharp made the decision to move some of his players from striker to defender to help shore up holes left by absent players.

“Never fun to lose but we were a low staff tonight. A couple guys with injuries,” Sharp said.

Despite the difficulties, the Warriors had chances to score. One was a penalty kick by junior Landon Smith in which he buried the ball in the top right corner of the net to tie the game, 1-1, five minutes into the second half.

It only took NorthWood five minutes to regain the lead with senior Solomon Yegon earning what turned out to the gamewinning goal. Yegon earn a penalty kick a minute later but Wawasee junior Weston McClintic made one of his best saves of the night stopping the penalty with

a jump to his left. McClintic also made a save with his feet just 30 seconds before halftime.

“Weston was outstanding in the goal tonight. He was a huge player for us tonight. It would be a different game without him,” Sharp said.

Both teams had players shown yellow cards as the action became more physical the final 30 minutes. Wawasee earned a corner kick with under a minute left in the game but the kick went over the box.

The loss moved Wawasee to 2-3-1 and 1-1 in Northern Lakes Conference play.

It is a quick turnaround for Wawasee with a road game at Lakeland 6 p.m. today, Sept. 7.

“Proud of the boys performance,” Sharp said. “A lot of guys stepped up and made for a good competitive night.

Children’s librarian helps home school children learn

Rebekah Sceniak is a children’s librarian at Syracuse Public Library. Once a week, she also oversees the library’s home school program at the library.

Sceniak was born and raised in Elkhart. She was home schooled. After graduating, she became very involved in music.

“I had a piano studio in my house,” said Sceniak, who plays piano and violin. “I went to piano conferences.”

She taught music for 10 to 15 years. Later, she went to The Philippines to do mission work. She spent seven months there before returning to the U.S.

Later, she had the opportunity to get a teaching job in Taiwan. She spent three years teaching English through the Taiwanese government.

“I loved the culture,” Sceniak said. “I love travelling, and I’ve done a lot of travelling.”

Her first year was challenging, Sceniak said, adding, “and there was a lot of growing pains.”

She taught first through sixth grade. The first year, she taught on Little Kinmen Island, so she had to take a ferry or boat to the island every week.

The second and third year, she taught first and sixth grade on “the big Island,” also called Kinmen Island.

“We could see China,”

She came back to the U.S. in 2015. She missed her family and eventually, she helped as a caregiver for her grandparents. After the transition back

home, she also was a nanny. She would bring the child to the Syracuse library for story time. Sceniak’s mother mentioned there was a job at the library, and she decided to apply. The Syracuse library hired her and that was five and a half years ago.

“It was just a good draw for me,” she said. “It was the right timing.”

She first started as an assistant in the children’s area. The role evolved after that and she started running the home school program at the library, which is held on Wednesdays. She also does children’s programming.

“I wanted to implement my teaching,” she said. “At first, there were 20 to 30 kids. It ended up being very successful.”

But then COVID hit. “We eased back into it eventually,” Sceniak said of the program. Today, 16 to 18 children take part in home school activities. The students are in first through sixth grades.

“I feel it is finally getting back from where we started,” she said.

Once a week, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., she has a program for the students, such as art or other hands-on project. She has also done a program on sign language and solar ovens.

When she is not helping the home school students, she helps check out books and does the “make it and take it” crafts.

“We have other children’s programs,” she said.

Sceniak lives in Syracuse and her hobbies are reading, movies, the arts, scrapbooking and making homemade cards. A lover of the outdoors, she is also an avid bicyclist and enjoys kayaking. She still gives piano and violin lessons, which, she said with a smile, “I love.”

Bridge Results

North Webster Bridge Group

The North Webster Bridge Group met Tuesday, Aug. 29, and Thursday, Aug. 31, at the Senior Primelife Enrichment Center in the North Webster Community Center. Tuesday winners were Jean Cowan, first, and Jerry Hetrick, second. Winners Thursday were Mike Wyrick, first, and Wanda Wyrick, second.

11-15

MONDAY — J. Parcell

TUESDAY — J. & K. Caskey

WEDNESDAY — C. & J. Spicklemier

THURSDAY — R. Chambers

FRIDAY — Cardinal

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It happened in North Webster 20 years ago NWES sees record number of new fifth-grade students

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U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski met with Gladys Culver, formerly of North Webster, who celebrated her 103rd birthday Aug. 31. Culver was among the residents at Miller’s Merry Manor, Syracuse, who heard Walorski talk about scams and forgeries.

Children’s Zoo for a wild night, sleeping with the sharks. Parents and children got a behindthe-scenes look at animals and the aquarium before camping out in the aquarium room Friday night.

20 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 3, 2003

30 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 1, 1993

Bouquets to Hazel Smith, who turned 88 years old Aug. 24.

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The Dixie boat passengers on the 6:30 p.m. public cruise last Tuesday evening, Aug. 27, got a big surprise. When the Dixie passed Eagle Point, Captain Jim Tranter put the boat in neutral and introduced a couple, Judy and Ron Wigge from Smalley Lake, on board who were celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary. Rev. Gary Colby was present to lead the couple in renewing their wedding vows in front of the wheelhouse with the assistance of Capt. Bob Barnes.

North Webster United Methodist Church made another stop during its monthly “Family Tour” program. This month, they went to the Fort Wayne

North Webster Elementary School has welcomed a record number of new fifth-grade students this year. In all, there are 16 new fifth graders.

North Webster Venture Crew 0726 was the first-place winner in the talent division during this year’s Makahiki competition in Warsaw. The crew also took first-place in the tug-of-war competition held during the annual Makahiki at Center Lake.

Patrise Beeson presented Harold and Jo Henry with a “hugs and kisses” balloon Aug. 19 when Barbee Lakes Conservation Club members met in the conservation building. Edna Lawson presented a gift certificate from the membership to the Henrys, who are moving to Anderson.

It happened in Syracuse ... 10 years ago

On Aug. 15, 68 North Webster Church of the Brethren members and guests went for an evening cruise around Webster Lake on the Dixie Boat. Tim Waites, Ernest Jhensen and Mr. and Mrs. Daryl Thomas played guitars and banjos for the group’s singing of hymns.

Tippecanoe Township Extension Homemakers Club met Aug. 18 at North Webster Church of God. Hostesses for the day were Dot Kurth, Dorothy Thornburg and Clar Broderick.

40 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 7, 1983

A boating accident Saturday night on Webster Lake slightly injured two people. A boat operated by Luke Riedhart, 14, Fort Wayne, was zigzagging in the water when it struck another boat driven by William Kloha, 60, Cincinnati, Ohio.

North Webster Senior Citizens met Sept. 14 at North Webster Church of God. Those attending

were asked to wear their wedding clothes or to take a picture of some momento from their wedding. There are 1,800 old books for sale at North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Public Library. They cover just about any topic so stop in and browse. Proceeds will support the library.

50 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 5, 1973

Randy Grimes, Gregg Spry and Amanda Grimes spent last weekend at Cedar Point Amusement Park. Other local residents enjoying such an outing before the opening of school included the Feller boys, Rod and Doug, whose parents accompanied them last Wednesday to Cedar Point.

Mr. and Mrs. Orian J. Fortress will observe their 50th wedding anniversary at a ceremony repeating vows at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 8, at the United Methodist Church in North Webster. Orian’s father, who officiated at the wedding, will come from Jackson, Mich., to perform this ceremony.

Purdue students named to dean’s list

10 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 4, 2013

About 9,600 Purdue University students were named to the dean’s list for the spring 2013 semester.

To be named to the dean’s list, a student must have completed at least 12 credit hours, be enrolled at least half-time, have a semester grade point average of at least 3.0 and have at least a 3.5 cumulative GPA. Local students named to the dean’s list include: Syracuse — Katherine Allen, Andre Champoux, Ashley Delucenay, Nathan Eisfelder, Richard Hoffmann, Stephanie Long, Sydney Miller, Lucas Rockwell, Kelsey Smith, Derek Thwaits, and Jonathan Warstler.

Syracuse resident Don Bucher, Cindonway Shores, recently placed top-five in two categories at the American Water Ski Association National Championships in Okeeheelee, Fla. Bucher placed fourth in the men’s 7 (65-69 years old) overall and fifth in jumping while also competing in slalom and tricks categories.

20 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 3, 2003

Jerry Juergens, local artist, has donated a painting to Syracuse Community Center. Jerry was inspired to paint a likeness of the new center after seeing the lighthouse portion of the building, however, his painting was completed prior to the installation of the flagpole. Jerry commented, laughing, “I guessed where the location of the flagpole would be and was pleased that I was correct.” Jerry has exhibited his works at the Oakwood Art Show for the past two years and is also involved in several shows in Florida where he and Mary spend

their winters. Other works by Jerry are on display in the center.

Michael and Dan Cone, sons of Dana and Kathy, CR 900N, Syracuse, returned recently from a tour of New England. This was a birthday/graduation gift to Michael, who graduated from the University of Vermont last year, from Dan. The trip began with the whole family visiting Kathy’s relatives in Indian River, Del. The boys left the beaches of Delaware near Rehobeth to begin their road trip. They took a ferry to New Jersey, crossing the Delaware Bay. A friend of Dan’s, who lives in New Jersey, joined them and they caravaned to Limestone, Maine, the northernmost tip of the state. They camped out and attended the Phish Concert Festival in that city. Another of Dan’s friends lives in Massachusetts, north of Boston, where they stayed and went sailing.

30 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 1, 1993

Local attorney Dave Cates, Syracuse, is soaring pretty high after his fishing trip earlier in August to Eagle Lake, Ontario, Canada, with a few friends from Indianapolis. The trip was to do some serious fishing. The fish story is that Cates caught a 16-pound northern pike, a 5-pound small mouth bass and a 5-pound walleye. The camp has a competition board where the largest catches are recorded. It seems that Cates led the camp with his small mouth bass and northern pike catches.

It definitely is a small world. Jim and Donna Beck and their two children, Matthew and Michelle, Syracuse, found out. The Becks left the area to attend the National Water Ski Tournament

at Sand Destine, Fla., near Pensacola. While they were there they went to visit former Syracuse resident Clem Lisor, who hosted a small party Friday evening prior to the ski tournament. It was at this party that they met none other than former Syracuse resident Joe Elam, son of Jack and Janet Elam, Syracuse.

40 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 7, 1983

Sylvia Duncan recently resigned as a volunteer worker at the Syracuse Nutritional Site. Mrs. Duncan and her husband recently started a publishing program which they hope to develop into a full occupation, and it commands all of her and her husband’s time.

Clem Lisor, Syracuse, owner and operator of Sportsman Center in the Village for the past 30 years, calls this season’s business “one of the best I’ve ever had.”

Clem has increased his inventory somewhat but considers that only

part of the story. He called last summer a good season, but this year’s business totals were considerably better.

50 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 5, 1973

Tom Prickett, president of the Syracuse town board, has an eye for things old. He is trying to come up with a practical use for the brick in the house soon to be demolished to make room for a new parking lot on West Pearl street. Tom suggested the bricks be salvaged that local merchants could use them for planters in front of store buildings. There wasn’t much enthusiasm among merchants for this sort of thing, primarily due to cost of cleaning them.

Willey Spurgeon, Syracuse, new Wawasee Property Owners Assn. president, said from 550575 attended the Sunday morning free pancake and sausage breakfast at the Lilly Annex.

Community welcomes

Mike and Traca Clark

10 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 4, 2013

Katie Cockrill, Milford, is following her dream and enjoying every minute of it. Cockrill and her husband, Eric, are the new owners of Lizard’s Bar and Restaurant, formerly Just-N-Time, located in downtown Milford.

On Sunday, Eva McClintic celebrated her 85th birthday with family. They served homemade ice cream and cake in celebration. Her son Jerry McClintic and his wife Barb; daughter Joellen Free; and daughter-in-law Christine Stump; grandchildren Suellen Kipp, Chad McClintic and wife, Kim, Jennifer Garcia; and greatgrandchildren Hannah Kipp and Abraham Kipp, Adam Garcia, Landon and Westin McClintic and family friend Larry Bray attended the celebration. Her daughter, Joellen, Milford, clerktreasurer, turned 65 Aug. 17.

20 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 3, 2003

Law enforcement on two wheels? It is possible and it is happening in Milford. Patrolling the streets of Milford via bikes is an effective and cost-effective tool used in combating crime. The bike patrol started about four years ago, says town marshal Dave Hobbs. “It’s a good method for policing the neighborhoods and providing better community service,” says Hobbs. “You can see things on a bike

First Lt. John Frasure was hailed as a hometown hero Saturday when family and friends gathered in the Milford Community Building for a surprise open house. Frasure, who served as a physician’s assistant in Kuwait and Iraq until just three weeks

ago, came home to Milford for a short visit.

Diamond Auto Sales has purchased the building located at the southeast corner of SR 15 and Emeline Street. Jason Brune and wife Leanne bought the building last week from Dave and Patricia Benning who formerly had a gas/ service station there. “We enjoy Milford a lot,” Brune said. They are going to do some renovation of the building and move their late model used car business in, hopefully by the middle of the month.

30 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 1, 1993

On June 13, 1993, he was appointed to Hastings Island Chapel as a supply pastor. Then on Aug. 13 Mike Dixon was approved for his license. Now Dixon is the part-time local pastor at the Milford church and will perform all duties of a pastor.

The community of Milford extends a welcome to Mike and Traca Clark and family who moved in Saturday, Aug. 28, to their home on South James Street.

Mike is the new band director at Wawasee High School and band and choir director at Milford Junior High School. He was formerly employed as band director for the Whitko School Corporation.

Jean Treesh returned to Milford last Thursday after spending two weeks in Billings, Mont., visiting her son and daughter-in-law, Mike and Nancy (Ahrns) Treesh, and family. She said the weather was “quite cool” compared to the sultry weather in Indiana.

40 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 7, 1983

Stephen Galegor, Milford, has been named assistant financial

Syracuse Public Library —

secretary of the Grace Brethren Investment Foundation, Winona Lake. He had previously served as accountant for the Grace Brethren Home Missions Council, the parent organization of the GBIF. In his new position, he is responsible for the accounting procedures and other management functions.

Katie Brown, daughter of Doug and Jodi Brown, Milford, celebrated her first birthday with a party given in her honor. The party was held in the Browns’ home on Saturday, Aug. 20. Cake, ice cream and lemonade were served.

Mr. and Mrs. Donald Wooten returned home after a week’s holiday in Orlando, Fla., getting acquainted with their new grandson, Donald Jeremiah. D.J. was named after both of his grandfathers.

50 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 5, 1973

Mr. and Mrs. Noble Fisher of Milford flew to New York Saturday for the wedding of their daughter, Earleen and Nick Tatro. On Saturday afternoon Nick and Noble attended a ball game at Yankee stadium. The New York Yankees played the Baltimore Orioles. In the evening they all enjoyed an IndiaPakistani dinner. The Fishers returned to Milford Monday p.m.

The Phil Campbell’s had what might be termed a “pool party” on Sunday with from 50 to 60 persons present from the Warsaw, Goshen, Syracuse and Milford area. The visitors enjoyed the Campbell’s new swimming pool with a cook-out also being held.

North Webster Community Public Library — Library cards offer access to more than just books

With a North Webster Community Public Library card, your borrowing possibilities extend far beyond books. Embracing innovation, the library offers an expansive “library of things” that caters to diverse interests. Whether you’re in the mood for family fun or DIY projects, this collection has you covered. Delve into a world of entertainment by checking out board games, yard games and children’s bubble machines. For the handy individuals, a trove of tools await, including a metal detector and a car service engine signal code reader.

SPL holds first Paint & Sip

Syracuse Public Library is holding its first Paint & Sip program at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 12, in the downstairs meeting room. Join Emilia Layne for an evening creating a beautiful autumn tree painting while sipping sparkling grape juice and enjoying light snacks.

The program has space for 20 participants and is filling up fast. Sign up to participate via the library’s digital calendar at https:// tinyurl.com/SPLPaintandSip or in person at the library’s upstairs circulation desk.

For information, email Layne at elayne@syracuse.lib.in.us.

Children’s Programming

Finds A Groove Syracuse Public Library adds a new children’s program: the Move & Groove Club. Children in kindergarten through fifth grade will make new friends while grooving to different songs with Amber Cox at 4 p.m. Mondays, starting Sept. 11, in the downstairs meeting room.

Story time will continue at 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays in the children’s department. Preschoolaged children work their way through the alphabet while having fun stories read to them.

Additionally, children’s librarian Megan Daumen has begun working in Spanish and Ameri-

can Sign Language. At the end of each session, there is usually a craft, too.

Sarah Wright will share her passion for shipwreck history and deep-sea exploration with the Homeschool Class at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 13, in the downstairs meeting room. From some of the oldest shipwrecks to newly discovered deepest shipwrecks, the class will learn a lot of history about the ships and their discoveries. Of course, she’ll also talk about “Titanic” and her sister ship, “Britannic.” This session will be for the upper elementary levels — fourth through sixth grades — but Wright will return the following week to share shipwreck facts with lower elementary students — first through third grades — on Sept. 20. For a full list of September’s Homeschool Class topics, visit syracuse.lib.in.us/children.html.

Young Adults Can Get Involved

Teens can help shape programs at the Syracuse Public Library by joining the Teen Advisory Board.

Teens in grades six through 12 can fill out the online application, which is at https://tinyurl. com/SPLTeenAdvisory. T.A.B. will meet from 4-5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 11, in the Rosalyn Jones Room.

Teens and young adults, ages

16 to around 25, can also join the new “Dungeons & Dragons” group, which will meet from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 14, in the Rosalyn Jones Room. Bring your

dice or use the library’s collection. Players of all skill levels are welcome. For information, email Robert Rensberger at rrensberger@ syracuse.lib.in.us.

Fall Antique Outboard Motor Show Sept. 16

The Antique Outboard Motor Club will hold its 2023 Fall Antique Outboard Motor Show and Swap Meet Saturday, Sept. 16, at North Webster’s Community Park (Dixie tour boat dock) on the west shore of Webster Lake.

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

The events include an exhibition of their recent restoration projects, serious swapping of parts and literature, plus running these old-time boat motors on the lake.

Club members invite area owners of old outboard motors to attend the meet for a free evaluation of their old motors. Many motors are bought, sold and evaluated throughout the day. The swapping area includes all types of parts, literature, related accessories and many antique motors.

The national Antique Outboard Motor Club, with over 3,000 members, classifies an antique outboard motor as being manufactured before 1950 and a classic outboard motor over 30 years old (prior to 1993).

The North Webster meet starts at approximately 10 a.m. and usually runs to midafternoon. Many participants stay late in the day if the weather is nice and they are able to run their antique motors on the lake.

For more information, con-

Celebrate your culinary creativity with an array of cake pans. The possibilities are boundless and the best part? All these items are at your disposal for a week, empowering you to explore, learn and enjoy beyond the confines of traditional library offerings.

So if you don’t have a library card, what are you waiting for?

The library is more than just books — there is so much more to discover with your NWCPL library card.

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

Adult Events

Did you know there are two upcoming solar eclipses that will be visible from northern Indiana? Come learn all about how, when and where to best view these eclipses. They will be hosting identical classes at 10 a.m. and 5:45 p.m. Monday, Sept. 11. All participants will receive a free pair of eclipse viewing glasses. Registration is required.

Cookbook Club, 11 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 12. This month’s theme is “garden to table” and they will be sharing recipes and dishes to use up garden produce. Register

in advance.

Adult Craft Class, 2 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 12. This month’s craft will be adorable sunflower coasters. Class is free and all materials are provided, but registration is required. Exercise classes are back. Get Fit While You Sit will be held at 10:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 14. Let’s Move Dance Class will follow at 5 p.m.

Teen Events

Unwind and make new friends at Teen Cafe, the ultimate Monday hangout spot at the library. Join in after school at 3:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 11, for video games like MarioKart, Roblox and Minecraft, board games and a delectable array of snacks, drinks and coffee.

Dive into the captivating world of anime at the Teen Anime Club’s upcoming meeting at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 12. Indulge in flavorful ramen noodles while immersing yourself in two top-voted anime episodes, sharing an afternoon of entertainment and camaraderie with fellow teens. For more information about any library events, call (574) 8347122, visit the library’s website at nwcpl.org or click into the library’s Facebook page.

tact local meet chairman Dave Tranter at (260) 213-1945 or jdtranter@kcaccess.com.

Thrasher completes Trine degree

Michelle Thrasher of Milford completed requirements for a degree from Trine University at the end of the second summer 2023 term. Thrasher earned a master of business administration degree from the school, which is located in Angola.

It’s silage time!

should be delayed if possible.

Around The Lakes

THIS GOOGLE car was spotted in North Webster last Thursday, Aug. 31 at a gas station. The car, which had a California license plate, was driven by Kim Reading, who is pictured inside the vehicle. She takes the street view photos for Google maps and sends them to her boss in Florida.

Lions Club and the Milford Community,” said club president Lisa Ensz. “Thank you for your service Lion James Smiley to our community and fellow Lions Club members.

Presenting the Elmer Sorenson Lion of the Year award to Smiley was Lion Tom Sorenson, center, and Ensz. —o—

September was always one of my favorite times as a kid. It was exciting because I loved helping make silage. The hustle and bustle of the tractors and wagons and chopper, the smell of fresh chopped corn stalks; all of it signaled the start of harvest for me.

Corn silage is our number one feed in tonnage fed to local cattle.

Making good corn silage generally means having a good base to make good quality milk.

The moisture content of silage at harvest is very important. Too high, and nutrients run out the bottom of the silo in a sticky smelly soup, which can also damage the silo and contaminate water supplies. Too low, and the fermentation process stalls, decreasing digestibility and increasing mold and spoilage due to trapped air.

Ideally, corn silage should be harvested at the moisture content appropriate for the type of silo used. Recommended moisture contents are 65–70% for horizontal silos, 63–68% for conventional tower silos, 55-60% for limited-oxygen silos, and 65% for silo bags.

Silage moisture at harvest is not difficult to determine and should be monitored, if possible, to prevent harvesting of the crop outside of the desired moisture range. A commercial forage moisture tester or a microwave oven and scales can be used to determine the moisture content fairly rapidly. If silage moisture is above ideal levels, then harvest

One strategy for timing corn silage harvest is to chop a sample at the full dent stage, just as the milkline appears, and determine the moisture content. Then estimate the harvest date by using a typical dry down rate of .50 to .75 percentage units per day.

The size of the chopped particles makes a difference in the fermentation process. Most of the research suggests the length of the cut should average three-eighths to three-fourths inch. This should be monitored throughout silo filling because the particle size can vary as the crop moisture content changes.

Once harvesting has begun, fill the silo as rapidly as possible and continue until it’s filled. Kernels of corn should be broken into pieces and cobs broken into thumbnail sized or less pieces. Once the kernels are past the half milk-line stage, it may be good to have more kernel breakage to increase digestibility.

In bunker silos, packing the silage is important to limit the amount of air in the pile. Many people use a technique called progressive wedge packing, where the silage is packed continually at a 30 to 40% grade. Another technique is to spread layers of silage in thin layers, maybe six to eight inches deep, and pack it by driving over the pile. Either way, the density after packing should be around 14 pounds of silage (dry matter) per cubic foot.

One final thought is safety. The equipment used to chop silage can also damage people, and very quickly. Keep safety in mind as you are working the fields and filling the silos. It is easy to get in

a hurry and forget that the whole reason you are doing this is to benefit your family. Be especially mindful of the children, who are drawn to the equipment like flies to honey.

Be sure to open windows and doors in areas where silo gasses can accumulate. These gases have caused permanent lung damage in people; and have killed both livestock and humans. Greatest concern is the first few days after putting the chopped forage in the silo structure or bag. These gasses are silent killers of both people and livestock. It is best to keep family members and employees away from these areas when the silage is fermenting.

Employees at the Southern Indiana Purdue Ag Center recorded an eerie video a few years ago showing a reddish-brown gas called nitrogen tetroxide creeping out of a silage bag. Another gas, called nitrogen oxide, is colorless and odorless, and would not give you or your family the visual warning like this video portrays.

Veterans eligible for VA benefits through PACT Act

Veterans who were exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange and other toxic substances are eligible to apply for benefits through the US Department of Veterans Affairs.

Kosciusko County Veteran Service Officer Darryl McDowell reminds veterans they have until Saturday, Sept. 30, to apply either at a local VA facility or by going to va.gov for the benefits brought about via The Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise To Address Comprehensive Toxics Act. Congress passed the PACT Act in 2022.

According to a description on the VA website, it “expands VA health care and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange and other toxic substances.”

“(It) adds to the list of health conditions that (the VA assumes or ‘presumes’) are caused by exposure to these substances. This law helps us provide generations of veterans — and their survivors — with the care and benefits they’ve earned and deserve,” the website also states.

People may learn more about the Act and eligibility by going to va.gov/resources/the-pact-actand-your-va-benefits.

Reading said she had already taken two hours worth of photos, with another two hours left to go in North Webster.

See, a real person takes the photos a lot of us use when needing driving directions!

—o—

SYRACUSE AMERICAN Legion Post 223 is hosting a 9/11 celebration at 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 11. The event will be at Crosson Mill Park, SR 13, Syracuse.

The public is invited to attend.

—o—

DON’T FORGET to stop by the rummage sale being put on by the Friends of the Milford Public Library. The sale will take place at the Apostolic Christian Church in Milford, 201 N. Higbee St. from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 9.

If you have donations you would like to contribute to the sale, they will be accepting them until 5 p.m. today, Wednesday, Sept. 6, and again from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 7. They cannot accept large appliances, televisions, mattresses, car seats or baby beds.

—o—

THE AMERICAN Legion Riders Post 223, Syracuse, is having a fall ride to raise money for Operation Comfort Warriors on Saturday, Sept. 16. Operation Comfort Warriors is a program dedicated to meeting the needs of wounded, injured or ill military personnel by providing them with comfort items not usually provided by the government.

Registration will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., with kickstands up at 1 p.m. The ride will depart from the Legion, 1008 S. Huntington St., Syracuse. There will be two stops along the route.

In addition to the ride, there will be a gun raffle with the drawing on same day, a 50/50 drawing and raffle items. Food will be served at the Legion following the ride. The cost is $15 per person and the public is welcome to join in. All vehicle types are welcome.

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HARVEST COFFEE in Milford has announced its annual summer Harvest Market has closed for the year. If you have extra produce or if you are looking for some, check out Milford Food Bank’s produce stand, which is available daily for a freewill offering. The stand is located in front of the building, located at 111 S. James St., Milford.

Donations can be made using the drop slot on the door next to the stand. —o—

FREE FOOD will be distributed from 9-11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27, while supplies last, at North Webster American Legion Post 253. This is a USDA distribution and will serve 200 households

NORTH WEBSTER Elementary School’s walkathon kicked-off its annual program Friday, Sept. 1. The actual walkathon was Friday, Sept. 5. Stay tuned to this newspaper for this year’s winners and more information.

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CHESS CLUB is happening once again at Harvest Coffee in Milford, 207 N. Higbee St. The group gets together at 4 p.m. each Tuesday. All ages and abilities are invited to participate. If you don’t know how to play but want to learn, come and they will be more than happy to teach you. Call (574) 658-3066 with any questions, or just stop by.

—o—

CALLING ALL girls in the Wawasee school district who want to play basketball!. Here is a chance to improve your game. If you are in grades 3-8 and are interested in the Lady Warrior Select basketball program, contact coach Derek Gilreath at dgilreath@wawasee.k12.in.us. The program will begin after fall break and will continue through December.

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THE YOUTH group of the Apostolic Christian Church in Milford will be holding a haystack dinner fundraiser from 5-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16. Come enjoy a delicious meal and soft serve ice cream with your family, friends and neighbors while supporting some of the youth in the community. The church is located at 201 N. Higbee St., Milford.

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THE SYRACUSE Eagles will be hosting a Texas Hold’em knockout poker tournament from 1-11:45 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16. Doors will open at 11 a.m. and the kitchen will be serving food starting at 3 p.m.

They buy-in is $150 per player, which includes a $25 club fee, $25 bounties and $100 towards the prize pool. Call the Eagles at (574) 457-4913 for further information.

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WAWASEE HIGH School was contacted by someone in the Fort Wayne area that a state runner up ring from the 1985-86 WHS football team was found. The ring bore the initials “SRR” in its engraving. If you have any idea who the rightful owner might be, contact the school at (574)457-3147.

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THIS PAST Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 4, the descendants of the John and Martha Rhodes family converged on the Rhodes Ranch in Milford. It was the 63rd annual Rhodes reunion.

A meal of pulled pork, hamburgers and hot dogs and carry-in dishes were enjoyed by all.

Games were also played, and for the second year in a row, homemade ice cream was enjoyed. The children and different family members got a kick out of helping mix up the ice cream’s ingredients. Then they took a turn cranking the ice cream freezer, and, in the process, making lasting memories.

CONGRATULATIONS TO Lion James Smiley upon receiving the Elmer Sorenson Lion of the Year award from the Milford Lions Club Monday, Aug. 20.

“What an amazing Year of Serving Milford

This family photo was taken before a hayride, with a John Deere green wagon, pulled by a red Farmall 460 tractor. Rich Rhodes provided the photo.

In a day when a lot of family reunions are dying off, there was a great turnout, said Rich Rhodes of Milford, and there was no rain.

of Kosciusko County

Cancer Care Fund hosts fifth annual Glow Golf event KCCCF raises $17K through golf fundraiser

The fifth annual Glow Golf fundraiser, hosted by the Kosciusko County Cancer Care Fund, was Friday, June 16, at Wawasee Golf Club.

Committee member, Lisa Rosales, led this year’s event. Food was supplied by Big Mouth BBQ’s food truck and attendees lined up

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During its annual golf fundraiser, the Kosciusko County Cancer Care Fund committee raised over $17,000 in 2022.

Because the fund is administered by The K21 Health Foundation, it covers the administrative costs; every penny of the funds raised went back to Kosciusko County cancer patients.

This year’s fundraiser was held at the Maxwelton Golf Course, Syracuse. The event was a scramble and included a shotgun start. Contests included a 50/50 putting contest, one ball for $5 and three balls for $10; golf grenades, $5 each; a par-three contest, $10; and team skins, $20 each. Participants had the chance to promote a business or a loved one by sponsoring a hole for $150. A sign was placed at the tee box during the event.

The fundraiser hosted a $5,000 Hole Contest Dream Golf Getaway. For an additional $200 per foursome, participants had a chance to win a dream golf getaway for two.

A Charity Golf International professional long driver teed off on a selected par five and every team member had a chance to hole out for a hole in two and win a trip for two, which included Ameri-

can Airlines airfare, two nights at The Pebble Beach Lodge and three rounds of golf at Pebble Beach Links, Spyglass Hill and Spanish Bay. This year, the raffle prize was a four-day, three-night Sandals Re-

sort vacation.

The 2022 golf fundraiser hosted 27 teams. The teams who won with the best low score were ERS Wireless, men; Jo Lemon, women; and Crossroads Bank, co-ed.

Cindi Wells believes its important to give back to the community

fore I was on the board,” Cindi said. “I’ve been selling golf balls at the golf outing for 10 years.”

Approximately 10 years ago, Sandy Green approached Cindi Wells at the Sleepy Owl and started telling her about the Cancer Care Fund and how the board needed help getting the word about it out to the public.

Wells decided to get involved, assisting with the Cancer Care Fund’s outreach committee, “because not a lot of people knew about the fund,” she said.

The outreach committee would set up booths at farmers markets and other community events to provide information about the Cancer Care Fund.

Looking back over her tenure with the Cancer Care Fund committee, Wells found a donation letter from 2013. Back then the committee members developed mailing lists from the area lake directories.

Today, Cindi and her husband, Jeff, serve on the Cancer Care Fund board and both are active in the various fund raising activities that take place throughout the year.

“I’ve sold golf balls even be-

The charity golf outing is her favorite event to help out with.

When Wells and her husband first became involved, the committee had 39 members. It’s now significantly smaller.

Wells said she’d like to see more younger people get involved, as just about everyone knows someone who has or is battling cancer. Her own father battled four different types of cancer.

“Truly, it doesn’t take that much time. You’ll go all winter without a meeting,” Wells said, explaining that meetings are held once or twice a month and when fundraisers come up, the long-time volunteers know what needs to be done.

She’d love to have younger people join and shadow some of the more experienced volunteers. “You have to give back to your community,” she said.

And work still needs to be done to get the word out that the fund is there to help those going through cancer. Wells said she’s referred three people to the fund as they battled can-

cer. “People don’t want to ask for help,” she said. “You have to let your pride go a little bit. It’s (the help) for your family.”

She encourages everyone to come out to an event and get involved. “We need new fundraising ideas. It doesn’t take a lot of time. We need brainstorming (ideas),” she said.

She’d also like to see people from different areas of Kosciusko County get involved, providing ideas for fundraisers that would work in their communities. “ Even if its just setting up a booth with our literature at an event to get the word out,” she said.

Want to donate to the Cancer Care Fund? Here’s how you can

Battling cancer is tough, it’s not for the faint of heart. While a person is battling cancer, they are dealing with expensive medical treatments, doctors appointments, various scans and tests. Often they are so ill, they can’t work, meaning there is no income coming in.

Here is where the Cancer Care Fund comes in. The fund, administered by the K21 Health Foundation, provides assistance to cancer patients and their families. Last year the fund spent $140,060 assisting 68 clients.

Funds are raised in a variety

of ways. The Cancer Care Fund committee hosts a variety of fund raising events throughout the year such as the recently held Dueling Pianos event and Cancer Care Fund Charity Golf Fundraiser, with proceeds going to the fund.

Upcoming vents include the Power of Pink Champagne Brunch and the Freaky 5K Family Halloween Run/Walk. There’s even a Glow Golf Tournament.

Individuals, families or local businesses may also give directly to the fund by sending a donation to: Kosciusko County Can-

cer Care Fund, c/o K21 Health Foundation, 1101 Park Ave., Winona Lake, IN. 46590.

Jennifer Stewart, grants manager for the K21 Health Foundation, said many make memorial donations in honor of friends and family who have battled cancer. “We have a lot of ‘in memorial’ donations,” she said.

Another way people donate to the fund is to host their own fundraiser. Stewart said there are people in the community who have lost a loved one to cancer and host their own event such as golf outing or car wash, donating the proceeds to the fund.

For those who like to wear meaningful jewelry or just a bit of bling, there are the “in memoriam”

crystal bracelets. Each bracelet is strung with 18 different colors representing a number of different types of cancer. The bracelets are $20. They can be purchased at any Cancer Care Fund event or by contacting a committee member and placing an order.

Others have also designated gifts to the Cancer Care Fund in their wills.

Cancer Care Fund hosts ‘Dueling Against Cancer’ event

Kosciusko County Cancer Care Fund of Kosciusko County held its third annual “Dueling Against Cancer” event Friday, May 19, at The Owl’s Nest in North Webster.

The evening’s activities included cocktails, dinner, dueling pianos and a live silent auction.

The entertainment was provid-

ed by Paul Bickel and Dave Caruso, who took song requests from attendees “dueling” to have their songs played. Whoever donated the most money would have the song of their choice performed.

The event was divided into two competitions: the highly popular college fight song duel and a

Cancer Care Fund

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in lawn chairs to listen to music provided by Indianapolis live band, The Tempos. There were 65 participants in the golf game. They spent time giving their carts fluorescent decorations before tee-off time at 9:20 p.m. The game was played in the dark, using glow-in-the-dark golf balls.

This year’s Glow Golf event raised $4,869. All proceeds will go to residents of Kosciusko County currently undergoing cancer treatment. The KCCCF assists with things like transportation costs, mortgage or rent payments and bills in order to ease the financial and emotional strain of

battling cancer.

The next Glow Golf fundraiser will be Friday, June 21, 2024, at Wawasee Golf Club.

Upcoming KCCCF fundraising events include the Power of Pink brunch and a designer purse auction Sunday, Oct. 1, at Tippecanoe Country Club. For more information, visit cancercarefundkc.org.

table duel. In the first, donations went toward having the fight song for one of several different colleges played on the piano. In the second, each table competed to donate the highest amount of money.

The duel portion of the evening was followed by the silent

auction, organized by committee member Liz Surface.

The “Dueling Against Cancer” event raised $5,668 this year, with the silent auction bringing in an additional $6,050. Highbidding items included a bourbon basket with Warsaw Cut Glass items, which sold for $1,850, a

Kelly Jae’s Lakeside gift card for $700, and a Bowers Jewelry gift card for $700.

All proceeds from KCCCF fundraisers go to residents of Kosciusko County currently undergoing cancer treatment. For more information, visit cancercarefundkc.org.

Lea Fitzgerald is a cancer warrior

“I just felt so bitter. The bills drained my savings that I had worked so hard for,” Lea Fitzgerald explained, “I was so unaware of all these great programs and charities that help people like me, people fighting cancer. I wish I would have known.”

Fitzgerald is a three-time cancer warrior. She has fought uterine, skin and breast cancer.

Her journey started October 2019, when she was diagnosed with uterine cancer. Fitzgerald was unable to see a doctor for a while because of insurance lapses and issues, but when she finally got an appointment, she got a diagnosis no one is ever ready to get: cancer.

“I was having symptoms, and I ignored them. Backaches, cramps, you name it, I had it,” she

explained. “The doctor, almost immediately, said ‘something’s not right,’ and so she sent biopsies off and sure enough it was cancer.”

To fight uterine cancer, Fitzergerald went under surgery. After the six-week surgery recovery period, doctors re-tested her lymph nodes and realized the cancer was still there.

This lead Fitzgerald to have to start six months of chemotherapy and two months of radiation.

“By the time I was done with that, it was so bad. It was during COVID. Having cancer during COVID was miserable. No one could come see me, because everyone was afraid. I couldn’t go anywhere and no one could come visit me,” Fitzgerald explained. “It was so emotionally and mentally draining.”

The YMCA’s LiveStrong program was a game changer for her. At the beginning of the sixweek program, Fitzgerald could not even walk into the room, she was so weak. The program was a twice a day workout program. By the end, she realized how much strength she had gained, both physical and emotional. She was able to be surrounded by people

who had the same struggles she had.

In the following year, Fitzgerald noticed a mole on her face that looked bigger every time she looked in the mirror. She saw her dermatologist. The dermatologist tried to calm Fitzgerald’s nerves by assuring her it was not cancerous. However, when the biopsy came back, the diagnosis was clear: skin cancer.

Fitzgerald has to have a golf ball-sized section of her cheek removed to get rid of the cancer.

During a routine mammogram, Fitzgerald heard the dreaded words: something’s not right. Her doctor did a biopsy of some of her breast tissue, and once again Fitzgerald was told she had cancer. She went through another cancer surgery that wiped out her strength. She attended the YMCA’s LiveStrong program. She found her strength again.

“It’s a daily thing for me to look around and see beauty. Especially working here, being surrounded by beautiful flowers. I love talking to customers. It’s hard to feel sad. I see a lot of people come through the door. I just want people to know you’re not alone.

People need to face adversity in life, or else you won’t be a wellrounded person.”

Third annual Power of Pink to benefit cancer patients

KCCF eases cancer patients’ financial stressors

We have all heard the term “battling cancer” whether related to a loved one, friend or neighbor.

Those who have had the unfortunate experience of facing this battle personally or while helping another, knowing this term exists because cancer is an all-out assault on every aspect of a patient’s life. Beyond the physical challenges, patients often face job loss, inability to pay bills and have difficulty caring for their families. A strong support system can make all the difference in easing these stresses throughout the treatment process.

The Kosciusko County Cancer Care Fund was formed in 1999 to build a support system specifically for Kosciusko County residents diagnosed with cancer and are in financial need. The volunteer founders had a simple mission: to reduce the challenges facing cancer patients and their families by financially assisting them during their fight.

The cancer care fund committee organizes an array of events to grow its mission; on its event calendar is a golf tournament, dueling pianos, champagne brunch, glow golf tournament and a Halloween 5K.

In addition, private personal do-

nations are made and many service clubs, students, individuals, and businesses donate money from independently-organized fundraisers to the fund for distribution.

Over the past 20 years, well over $2 million has been raised to help Kosciusko County residents, who are fighting their cancer battles. In 2022 alone, the committee raised $140,060 to support 68 patients with health insurance, rent and mortgage, utilities, patient programming, car payments, insurance and repairs, gas and food certificates, home insurance and repairs, motels and prescriptions.

Because K21 Health Foundation covers administration costs, every dollar of every donation goes directly into the fund to assist Kosciusko County cancer patients and their families.

“When you’re fighting for your life, you shouldn’t have to fight to pay your bills and thanks to CCF and K21 we help to ease that stress,” said Brittney Niles, CCF fundraising committee vice chair.

For more information on available community resources, volunteer opportunities, or to make a donation, visit cancercarefundkc. org.

The third annual Power of Pink champagne brunch will be held at 11 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 1, at Tippecanoe Lake Country Club, 7245 N. Kalorama Road, Leesburg.

The event includes food, champagne and a designer purse auction. “We will have Rob Parker (president and CEO) of the Kosciusko County Chamber of Commerce) as our master of ceremonies. He had those ladies whipped up. He missed his calling, he should MC a game show,” said Julee Rauch, chair of the Power of Pink committee.

There will be entertainment, plans were being finalized as to who will be performing at press time.

Once again there will be approximately 10-12 designer purses being auctioned off. Fall sport athletes from Wawasee High School will serve as models. For the first Power of Pink event, members of the Wawasee Football team served as models. Rauch said the word has gotten out among the athletes that the event is a fun community service opportunity and they

all want to be a model. “I think its cool they see how they can support the community,” Rauch said.

Those attending the event will have an opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for a very special purse. A friend of Rauch’s, who designs bags, is busy creating a very special purse based on Power of Pink to be raffled off.

The purses up on the auction block will range in size and come from designers such as Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs, Bogg Bags, Kate Spade and more. At press time there were plans in the works to have one special very high end purse hit the auction block.

This year the centerpieces will be sold at check out, rather than be auctioned off.

Last year the event raised approximately $10,000. This year the Power of Pink committee hops to raise between $15,000 and $20,000.

Once again Brew City has partnered with Power of Pink, roasting a special brew for the event. Rauch said the beans are coming from a woman-based

company. This year’s brew will be different from the previous two years. Not only will the coffee be different, but so will its packaging.

Brew City is also working on a raspberry filled cookie which will be offered as a party favor at the brunch. Both the coffee and the cookies will be available for sale at Brew City with a portion of the proceeds going to the Kosciusko County Cancer Fund. “They are just the most supportive people,” Rauch said, pointing out that Cassandra and Derek Poirer, Brew City’s owners, are a relatively new business that is eager to support the community.

Table sponsorships are now available. A table for eight costs $480. Sponsors receive signage and eight tickets for the brunch and for the raffle. Other sponsorships are available. For more information, contact Raugh at (815) 263-8819

The deadline to RSVP for tickets is Friday, Sept. 15. Tickets are $60 and may be purchased through Eventbrite or by contacting Rauch at the number above or by email at ccfpowerofpinkevent@gmail.com.