The Mail-Journal - September 13, 2023

The 22nd anniversary of the 9/11 attacks was commemorated in a special ceremony Monday, Sept. 11, in Syracuse. The American Legion Post 223 hosted members of the Turkey Creek Fire Territory for the ceremony that

featured a 21-gun salute.

Chris Longenbaugh has been with the Turkey Creek Fire Territory for over 18 years and is the second district vice commander for the Legion.

“I think it is very important,”

Longenbaugh said on keeping the 9/11 ceremony going. “The crowds keep getting smaller and smaller.

Try to get the younger generation to understand what this is about.

What with all the people who perished that day represents.”

The ceremony also included prayers for American prisoners of war.

For Longenbaugh, remembering 9/11 helps him refocus why he became a firefighter.

“One of the reasons I ended up joining the fire service was because of 9/11 and going into the military too,” Longenbaugh said.

WCSC Board honors Snider, hears conceptual schematics

North Webster Elementary School Principal Lee Snider will be recognized by the Indiana Association of School Principals for his outstanding leadership. The recognition was announced at the Wawasee Community School Corporation Board of Trustees meeting Tuesday, Sept. 12.

Snider was chosen to represent District 2. District Elementary Principals of the Year are elected by their peers. One principal is honored from each of the 12 districts.

From these 12 district winners, one is chosen as the 2023 State Elementary Principal of the Year. The awards will take place Sunday, Nov. 19.

Milford Town Council weighs in on budget, insurance and Waubee Lake

The Milford Town Council meeting Monday, Sept. 11, opened with a short budget hearing. The proposed budget for 2024 is $2,633,763, which Clerk-Treasurer Tricia Gall said would keep the town at the maximum levy rate, as it has been in the past.

A decision had to be made on whether to renew the town’s health insurance plan for its employees, the cost of which increased 22% this year. Lisa Frazetta of Frazetta

Financial Service compared quotes for several different plans for the council. There were no plans available that wouldn’t cost more than the town currently pays, about $192,000. According to council member Ken Long however, if the council renewed the same plan, they would be paying over $30,000 next year with the increase. Ultimately, the council decided not to renew and to accept the 6VHE plan, which would cost about $206,000 per year. Kevin Dwyer of the Waubee Lake Association asked the council to consider appropriating $650 towards spraying an 18-acre area affected by starry stonewort. There is currently no way to completely kill the fast-spreading algae, but if left untreated it can ruin an ecosystem for the native plants and fish. Dwyer said the WLA has also applied for grant money to help pay for spraying the entire affected area. The town council’s contribution would go toward spraying the 0.2 acres of affected shoreline that impacts the Milford Town Park. The council agreed to pledge $650 in the event that WLA needs it after grant money has been applied. If successful, the spraying will take place in June and August 2024. The council weighed in on a vari-

ance request from a citizen who asked for a shed at 508 W. Catherine St. to be allowed to remain 2 feet, 8 inches from the rear property line when ordinance requires 15 feet. According to Long, no building permit was acquired before construction on the shed began, and ordinances were ignored even after the permit was acquired. The council decided to oppose the variance request.

In fire department business, Virgil Sharp presented quotes for electricity on two new tornado sirens, one in the park and one at the lift station, at a total of $6,810, which the council accepted. Sharp also announced that the department will be having its barbecue chicken fundraiser 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1.

In police business, the department asked the council’s permission to pursue a grant from the Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Program. The five-year program, which covers training, equipment and salary for a new officer, is funded for four years by the grant, after which the town picks up the costs. The council asked that the department bring back more information about the grant’s requirements before they made a decision.

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Emily Hower from Elevatus Architecture presented to the board three conceptual schematics. The Milford Elementary School project is still in the early stages, but the board was presented possible building layouts. In every conceptual schematic presented, the new school will be built while classes resume as usual in the existing school building. Once everything is moved over into the new school, the old school building will be torn down. More information will come available as the design team meets with stakeholders.

“The layout is intentional. We purposely laid out the younger classrooms to be away from the older classrooms to try to eliminate, or at the least stifle, class disruptions from the ‘littles’ walking to lunch or by the older classrooms,” Hower explained.

During reports, Dr. Steve Troyer presented the board with a lot of good news. Wawasee Community Schools received three IHSAA Exemplary Behavior Reports for Jordan Sharp, boys soccer coach; Xavier Washington, boys soccer team captain; and the Wawasee cheer block.

“IHSAA reports used to be few and far between, having three at the same meeting really says a lot about our coaches and student athletes,” Troyer remarked.

Nine Wawasee High School students were recognized from the College Board because of their GPA of

3.5 or higher and their outstanding performance on the PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, and/or AP exams. The students are: Addison Beasley, Alexa Gomez-Jones, Alexander Dibble, Corrine Orth, Eduardo da Cunha,

Evan Byler, Evelyn Duncan, Jaxon Brown and Katylynn Bryant. Multiple donations were also gifted the WCS corporation. Nancy and Larry Stoner donated $1,000 to Continued on page 3

WCSC welcomes back Emily Worrell

Emily Worrell has been hired as the director of communications and marketing for Wawasee Community School Corporation. She was hired during the school board’s monthly meeting Tuesday, Sept. 12.

During the spring of 2023, Wawasee Community School Corporation conducted a community engagement process to help district leaders identify areas of need for the district, particularly in the areas of facilities and educational programming. One of the discoveries from this process was the community’s desire for WCSC to allocate additional resources to improve communication and marketing of the district.

Worrell will fill that need.

Worrell is currently the executive director of the North Webster Community Center. She will begin her work with the corporation

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Alcohol permit for new owners of Syracuse restaurant approved

An alcoholic beverage permit for the new owners of West Main Kitchen in Syracuse was approved during a Sept. 7 Kosciusko County Alcohol and Tobacco Commission meeting.

Jerry Parsons, vice-president and an owner of the restaurant, located at 201 W. Main St., attended the meeting regarding the new permit application. Parsons said he and his wife purchased the restaurant from its previous owners in June.

“(The previous owners) reached out to the state to find out what the process was for us obtaining the permit and informed us they could not transfer but we would need a new application,” said Parsons. “In the interim, the state informed the previous owners that we could be assigned as managers so we’ve currently been operating under their previous license.”

Parsons said West Main Kitchen serves dinner from Thursdays through Saturdays by reservation only.

The commission also addressed four permits with violations, voting to renew all of them after hearing about each violation.

Allison Robie, an owner of The Dock Café, also known as the old location for Peterson’s Fish, 1009 S. Huntington St., Syracuse, discussed a violation which occurred before the permit for

Milford Redevelopment Commission approves utility line extensions

an alcoholic beverage permit that location entered escrow. Robie said a waitress did not check identification for a patron.

Heidi Um, the manager of Milford Party Pack, 314 N. Higbee St., said a cashier served alcohol to a minor and did not check the individual’s ID. Um said the employee was flustered due to the store being busy. The employee is

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Milford Town Council

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Wawasee Community Schools has proposed a contract in which the town of Milford provides an officer to serve as SRO for five hours a day every school day for a lump sum payment of $20,000, which the council accepted.

It was also noted that Deputy Marshall Ben Sanders has secured a donation of six new automatic external defibrillators for the department, five of which will go in squad cars and one at town hall. These will replace the four old AEDs, which are obsolete.

In wastewater department news, Mark Brubaker asked for funds to camera the wastewater system at a quote of $1,200 for 1,000 feet of camera line. Superintendent Steven Marquart also gave a quote of $300 for a smaller section of pipe that may have been pierced by a fence post. Given the need to investigate the fence post problem, the council approved the

inspection of the storm water section by Mr. Rooter for $300.

In other business, the council also approved:

• The transferring of hydrant fees from the general fund to the water department, at $31,576.86.

• Fall cleanup Sept. 21-23. From 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 21-22 and 8-11:30 a.m. Sept. 23. Residents can take trash to the utilities building at 600 N. Main St.

• Trick or treating hours for this year, 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31. The Community Building’s parking lot will be blocked off for a Trunk or Treat event during that same time. The next Milford town council meeting will be 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 10, in the Milford Community Building. At the start of the meeting, there will be a public hearing to discuss the results of the master utility study that was conducted by Commonwealth Engineers earlier this year.

The main order of business at the Milford Redevopment Commission’s Monday, Sept. 11, meeting regarded the second TIF district, located along Old SR 15 and 1300N, which contains the Beer Industrial Park. Commission President Dan Brown said that in order to provide utilities to the area, existing water and

sewer lines must be extended under 1300N. Because of the new bridge project taking pace at the intersection of Old SR 15 and 1300N, new pavement will be placed down that shifts the road about 100 feet to the north. Brown stressed that the utility lines need to be extended as soon as possible to avoid cutting into the new road.

The commission has contacted Commonwealth Engineers to put

together a design proposal for the project at a cost not to exceed $20,600. Ryan Larue of Commonwealth Engineers was present at the meeting and said the company’s goal was to submit permits for the design this month or early October at the latest.

The town of Milford has an agreement with BRTB that states the company will finance any necessary improvements to the area, and the commission has

confirmed with BRTB that they will cover the costs of this utility extension project. The commission unanimously approved going forward with Commonwealth’s design plan.

In other business, Clerk-Treasurer Tricia Gall proposed the transfer of hydrant fees to the water department for the water hydrants that support Milford’s TIF 1 area and the commission unanimously approved.

Tippecanoe and Chapman RSD approve two change orders

The Tippecanoe and Chapman Regional Sewer District held their regular board meeting, Monday, Sept. 11.

The board approved two change orders, including $33,917.04 to Contract A. The board also approved the change order of $12,575.25 to Contract B. Neither change order requested time extensions. Both change orders dealt with accommodating property owners, shifting grinder station locations and various utility requests.

Kim Hathaway took the board through the financial report and bank reconciliation. He informed the board of the payments of four checks: $178,000 to Bank of New York; $1,881,496.42 to Sell Construction; $16,794.25 to Niblock Excavating; and $342,464.31 to Sell Construction.

He then took the board through the approval of claims. He has 10 invoices he will be paying through

the month of September, totaling $156,318,86. The board voted to delay payment of $4,189.69 to Baker-Tilly until they can get a couple operational kinks ironed out.

Hathaway asked the board to vote in another authorized check signer. As it stands now, Hathaway is the only board member au-

APC approves final plat, two rezonings

A final plat, a preliminary plat and a two rezonings were given favorable recommendations at the Wednesday, Sept. 6 Kosciusko County Area Plan Commission meeting.

Brett Harter’s petition to rezone a 6.22 acre tract of ground from an agricultural district to an agricultural II district was granted. The property is located on the south side of CR 500 North, just west of Sullivan Road near the North Webster-Oswego area in Tippecanoe Township.

Harter wants to build a twolot subdivision for his son and daughter to build a house on each lot. They will have a shared driveway off Armstrong Road.

The board gave its favorable recommendation in the case, which will now be heard at the 9 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26 county commissioners meeting.

Kenneth Showalter’s petition to rezone 23 acres from an agricultural district to a commercial district on the property, located on the west side of SR 15, just north of CR 400 North in Plain Township, was given a favorable recommendation by the APC.

Jeff Owens, a real estate broker who represents the seller who lives in California, said the property is for sale. Owens said about 10,000 vehicles a day go past the property, once home to a camel.

On Fridays, the count is close to 14,000 vehicles a day.

He said properties close to Showalter’s are zoned industrial and commercial. The county will reap the benefits of commercial tax dollars. The property is 23 acres.

The property is currently assessed at $1,900 an acre, and with the rezoning, the reassessment of commercial property could be as much as $76,000 per acre.

a win-win to rezone to

commercial,” said board member Mike Long.

The case will now be heard by county commissioners at 9:15 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26.

Kyle Coleman’s petition for preliminary plat approval for a residential development of a five-lot subdivision on a 7.53 acre tract of land, was granted. The property is located on the north side of McKenna Road and 200 feet east of EMS B38 Lane in Tippecanoe Township and includes two separate driveways.

“I think it’s a good plan,” said Bob Conley, board member. “I think two driveways are safer.”

In other business, the board approved a vacation of a property, located near Hoffman Lake Estates, Warsaw, owned by Tim Blackford. The matter will go before the county commissioners at 9:15 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26. The board had a brief discussion regarding cargo boxes. A copy of the new ordinance for cargo box

usage and placement was handed to each APC member to review; however, the board did not vote on nor approve the proposed ordinance.

In other news, the APC:

• Approved a final plat for property, located near CR 300N and CR 175 East, Warsaw. It is a two-lot subdivision in an agriculture II district owned by Tim Postima of Warsaw.

• A plat in Deed’s Creek Manor, Warsaw, was approved for Barrett McManus. He petitioned for the preliminary plat approval for the replat of one lot in Deeds Creek Manor. The property is located on the west side of Old Orchard Drive, east of Timberline Circle in Wayne Township. He “diligently” worked to contact all surrounding property owners except one couple, David and Nancy Wilson, said APC Director Matt Sandy.

The next meeting is at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 4, at the county courthouse in Warsaw.

thorized to sign checks. The board approved Jeff Thornburgh to be a secondary signer.

Jeff Rowe of Baker-Tilly informed the board of the progress made on the engagement scope of service for the East Weber area.

The scope of service has been submitted to the board, but was tabled until next month so the board can have more time to look it over.

Steve Henschen took the board through some of the options for the RFP process of operations. The engineering committee will sift through the proposals and bring a couple back to the board as recommendations during the regular November board meeting. The committee is sending notice to the following companies: InfraMark, Asbury Environmental and Aqua Indiana. The proposals are due in late October.

“The services also include maintenance?” Chuck Simpson asked Henschen.

“Yes, not only maintenance but preventative maintenance,” Henschen explained.

“Administrative? Billing?” Simpson pressed.

“No, operations is strictly operating the system.”

Simpson asked to consider the proposals be split so they companies can bid on the operations and the administrative work.

Henschen also informed the board of the customer connection policy. He explained the engineer-

ing committee is still in the drafting process, but it expects it go be able to go before the board during next month’s regular board meeting. The customer connection policy will spell out the specific pipe material types and how to properly abandon septic tanks. Once the policy is approved, it will be available on the Tippecanoe and Chapman RSD website.

The board approved the pay applications of three contracts.

They approved the payment of Contract A for $637,719.15, which has 80% of overall pipe installed and 45% of grinder stations installed. Contract A is 63% earned from the contract amount. They approved the payment of Contact B for $985,814.21, which has 38% of overall pipe installed and 35% of grinder stations installed. Contract B is 40% earned. They approved the payment of Contract C for $462,100.28. Contract C is 10% earned. No installation work has started on Contact C.

The project is 46% complete through the project time. The project has used 28% of the construction contingency and variance payment amount.

“We are tracking less from a time and cost standpoint,” Henschen explained to the board.

The next regular Tippecanoe and Chapman Regional Sewer District meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 9, at the North Webster Community Center, 301 N. Main St.

Obituaries

Ronald P. Hussey

United States Army Veteran

Ronald P. Hussey, known to many as Ron, peacefully passed away Monday, Sept. 4, 2023, at the age of 86.

Born on May 18, 1937, in Whiting, Ron was the son of Thomas and Anna Hussey. On Jan. 31, 1986, he married Judith Mish in Whiting and they spent 53 years together until Judie’s passing in 2021.

A quiet and soft-spoken individual, Ron took great pride in his military service and proudly served in the United States Army. His military service was a testament to his patriotism and willingness to sacrifice for others. He also worked for many years and retired from Lever Brothers in Whiting. Outside of his professional life and military service, Ron had a variety of interests that brought him joy and fulfillment. He was an avid fisherman who relished spending time on Lake Wawasee with his wife, Judith “Judie,” as well as close friends, Frank and Phyllis Perzanowski. Ron found solace in the tranquility of nature and the excitement of reeling in a big catch.

Additionally, he possessed a deep love for reading and golfing. Ron was enthusiastic about traveling, finding joy in exploring new places; Las Vegas held a special place in his heart. Furthermore, he had a keen eye for observing sports events and providing thoughtprovoking movie critiques.

He is survived by his daughters, Laura Mish of Nappanee, Lisa Mish of Chesterton and Doreen (Robert) Phillips of Graniteville, Vt. Ron’s legacy continues through his adored grandchildren, Brittany (David) Rosenberry and Brandyn (Krista) Arnold; and great-grandchildren, Pierce, Bently, Easton and Kaine. He is further survived by his sister, Dolores Hussey of Nappanee, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, Ron was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Thomas and Roger Hussey; and sisters, Evelyn Kurek and Jean Kinsock.

Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse is entrusted with Ron’s care. A visitation was held from 1-2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8, at the funeral home. A graveside service at Mock Cemetery in North Webster immediately followed.

To leave a written condolence, please visit www.titusfuneralhome.com.

Larry Haney

Former School Teacher

Larry Haney, 85, Milford, passed away Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023, at Waterford Crossing in Goshen.

He was born July 4, 1938, at home near Hastings to Kenneth and Goldie (Oster) Haney.

Larry married Dorothy J. Hawley in Bourbon on Jan. 30, 1960, and they celebrated their 63rd anniversary earlier this year. He graduated from Milford High School in 1956, North Central College in 1960 and earned his master’s degree at the University of Missouri Rolla in 1968. He and Dorothy taught school in the Chicago area for three years before buying a farm west of Milford in 1963, where they resided for 53 years.

He continued teaching math and science at Goshen High School until 1974 when he decided to farm full-time. Along with grain farming, over the years the farm produced eggs, cattle, pigs and ducks. He enjoyed people and was known for his friendly smile and laughter. He loved the Lord and was always active in his church.

For many years, he was a member of Island Chapel United Methodist Church and for the past 20 years, a member of Nappanee United Methodist Church. He volunteered his time with CROP, Gideons, World Missionary Press and Meals On Wheels. He and Dorothy traveled to all 50 states, visiting 39 national parks. They also enjoyed serving others on mission trips throughout the U.S. and other countries.

Larry is survived by his wife, Dorothy, as well as his brother, Galen Haney of North Webster. He was proud of his two daughters, Karen (Mark) Stevens of Pierceton and Laura (Oliver) Grimm of Bourbon. He loved his grandchildren, Colby (Hannah) Stevens of Ashland City, Tenn., Rye Stevens of Memphis, Tenn., and Kendall Stevens of Fort Wayne.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Betty Cotton; brother-in-law, Gene Cotton; and sister-in-law, Mary Ellen Haney.

Dr.

Can’t take the heat? Stay in the kitchen

on hand. Be sure that non-perishable canned and boxed goods are well stocked.

Dr. William L. Meyers, 95, Syracuse, died Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023, at his home. Arrangements are currently pending at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse.

Births

Bridger Trent Golding

Troy and Janelle (Cover) Golding, Milford, are the parents of a son, Bridger Trent, born at 4:53 a.m. Sept. 9, 2023, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 8 pounds, 1 ounce, and was 21 inches long.

State notifies

Medicaid recipients of CareSource breach

Some Indiana Medicaid members may have had their protected health information compromised in a recent security breach involving CareSource.

Indiana Family and Social Services Administration officials announced Friday, Sept. 1, CareSource’s breach happened in late May and involved the personal information of over 200,000 Indiana residents.

Officials report names, addresses, Social Security numbers, dates of birth and member health information were breached from CareSource’s app, MOVEit.

CareSource is contacting the afflicted members and are offering credit monitoring options.

Questions or concerns can be directed to CareSource by calling (866) 764-7020. The line is open from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Summer means fun in the sun to many people.

To seniors, however, the heat can bring serious health risks — even death.

It could be healthier to eat in your air-conditioned kitchen rather than beside a sunsplashed pool.

As the body ages, it is less able to adjust to temperature extremes. And, because they may not feel the heat, older people may not take the proper precautions.

To help ensure the safety and well-being of elderly relatives or neighbors who often find it difficult to get out and about during the sizzling season, you should periodically check in on them in person, not just by telephone, to verify their physical well-being and appearance.

Look for the following signs:

• Heat fatigue is a feeling of weakness brought on by high outdoor temperatures. Symptoms include cool, moist skin, a weakened pulse, and feelings of faintness.

• Heat exhaustion serves as a warning the body is getting too hot. The person may appear giddy, thirsty, weak, or uncoordinated. Heat exhaustion is usually caused by the loss of water and salt.

• Heat stroke can be lifethreatening. Immediate medical attention is necessary. A person with heat stroke has a body temperature near or over 104 degrees. Other symptoms include dizziness, combativeness, strange behavior, staggering, lack of sweating, or confusion.

Things to check when visiting a senior include: Food Surplus — Make sure they have enough food and beverages stocked in the refrigerator and the pantry in case a heat wave prevents them from getting to the grocery store. Offer to pick up some groceries for them or prepare a few days of meals and place them in their freezer so they’ll have emergency food

Mature health matters

blasts of light.

Look After Eye Strain

Many parts of your body don’t work as well after you’re 50 than they did before you strolled past the half-century mark.

A common but overlooked problem is dry eye, which results in itchy and burning eyes. The irritation is often caused by lowered tear production, which decreases with age and can be exacerbated among snowbirds who spend their winters in dry desert climates.

Long sessions at your computer, driving, and watching television are also among the causes.

Medications — If it’s not possible for the senior to keep extra medications in the house, help them to arrange for a pharmacy that will deliver medication refills.

Cool Air — Make sure the temperature in the home or apartment is comfortable. Have them keep emergency telephone numbers handy in the event their air conditioner or fans quit

WCSC

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Monday, Oct. 23. She holds a degree in public relations and has completed graduate coursework. She has experience teaching multiple grades at the elementary and middle school levels, but has also held several communications-related positions in the private and public sector. Worrell excels at developing and executing strong communication and public relations plans while understand the nuances of public education.

“We are thrilled to welcome

working. A spike in the temperature can be devastating for a senior who lives alone. Companionship — Fresh air is good for everyone. But if a senior doesn’t have someone to enjoy it, he or she may become less interested in going outside. Consider inviting an elderly neighbor to your family gathering if you know their family is on vacation or lives a long distance away and doesn’t visit too often.

Mature Life Features Copyright 2023

Emily back to Wawasee. She brings a wealth of experience in both communications and education to the position. We are looking forward to Emily leveraging her unique skill set to build upon our strong community partnerships,” explained Dr. Steve Troyer, superintendent.

“Although my time at the NWCC is coming to an end, my commitment and dedication to our community is not. I am excited to bring that same love and passion back to Wawasee for the betterment of our students and Wawasee families,” Worrell said.

Alcohol permit

Continued from page 2 still working at the store.

Rocky Clemens, a founder/ manager of Time Out Inn, 1701 W. Lake St., Warsaw, said the business received a $250 fine after someone with the state’s excise police asked an employee if Time Out sold food. The employee said ‘no’ even though Time Out sells sandwiches and soups.

State Excise Officer April Tackett said state law requires any business with an alcohol permit to have food readily available at all times of operation.

Stefan King, an owner/manager of Hoplore Brewing, 307 W. Market St., Warsaw, addressed a violation after a bartender didn’t check ID for a patron. King said the business paid a $1,000 fine and the employee at fault was terminated.

The following permits with no violations were approved:

American Legion Post 49, 301 N. Buffalo St., Warsaw. Beer, wine and liquor — fraternal club. Kroger Limited Partnership I, doing business as Kroger J-837, 2211 E. Center St., Warsaw. Beer, wine and liquor — drug store. Oakwood Resort, 702 E. Lakeview Road, Syracuse. Beer, wine and liquor — hotel. Saint Regis Club LLC, 101 E. Center St. Unit 101, Warsaw. Beer, wine and liquor — river and lake.

Texas Roadhouse Holdings LLC, doing business as Texas Roadhouse, 700 W. 300N, Warsaw. Beer, wine and liquor — restaurant.

Warsaw Seafood Inc., doing business as Asian Cajun, 658 S. Buffalo St., Warsaw. Beer and wine retailer — restaurant.

The next local ATC meeting is at 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5, at the Kosciusko County Courthouse.

Both are normally harmless but should be checked because they can signal a detached retina, which can lead to blindness.

Look for the Spice of Life

When sorting through one’s catalog of places to eat, the choice narrows down to less exotic eateries as one gets older. One’s gastric system requires more protection from spicy foods as it ages, seems to be normal thinking.

However, an analysis a half dozen years ago of a two-decade study of some 16,000 adults revealed that those who reported having hot peppers in their diet reduced their risk of death by more than 10 percent.

This means a bit of spice in your life can add years to your life.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m.

Thursday, Sept. 14, at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee, and for one hour prior to a 10:30 a.m. funeral service Friday, Sept. 15, at Nappanee United Methodist Church. Burial will follow at Island Cemetery, Milford.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Missions Fund at Nappanee United Methodist Church, World Missionary Press or The Gideons International.

WCSC Board

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Wawasee High School for the Philip K. Fawley Memorial Scholarship.

Summit Veterinary Associates donated $250 to the high school’s boys soccer team. The United Way of Whitley and Kosciusko County awarded WCSC a $6,000 grant to go toward the Start United Program. Shoemaker Electric donated $1,000 to Wawasee athletics as a sponsorship. Kyle and Marissa Rowe donated $300 to the WHS student council for homecoming activities.

Other donations received were from The Time Out Inn and Time Out Downtown, which each donated $100 to put toward a WHS super mileage vehicle. JBC and Associates donated $200 to put toward a WHS super mileage vehicle. The North Webster Lions Club donated $500 to put toward a WHS super mileage vehicle. Burton Ramsey donated $250 to put toward a WHS super mileage vehicle. The Wawasee Band Boosters donated $8,000 to WHS for new band uniforms.

The Knights of Columbus No. 6323 donated $850 to the high school’s girls soccer team.

Dr. Brandon Penrod took the board through the monthly budget.

As of August 2023, the education budget was 68.29% encumbered, with a month to date expenditure of $2,222,437.10. The operations budget was 60.69% encumbered, with a month to date expenditure of $649,460.51.

Dr. Shelly Wilfong asked the board to approve the three-year subscription to EduClimber, which will be able to give teachers “the big picture of the whole child.”

Through EduClimber, staff will be able to set any threshold and students not meeting the threshold will be flagged. For example, if the school set a threshold of five absences, every student with five recorded absences will be flagged. EduClimber will allow educators to easily import and track academic and non-academic data including behavior, assessments, interventions and attendance. As of now, staff have to go into multiple applications to pull this information. Wilfong explained how the first waiver day is going to be used. The first waiver day is Monday, Sept. 18. Kindergarten to second grade educators will learn about dyslexia screening. Third through fifth grade educators will learn about

Over-the-counter eye drops can alleviate the condition readily, but you should have your eyes medically examined to determine proper treatment.

Another common complaint by the over-50 crowd is “floaters and flashes.” Floaters resemble black spots or cobwebs wandering through your eye and can be constant or episodic. Flashes, which are episodic, are brief

new math curriculum and iLearn changes. Classified staff will take a de-escalation training. Transportation staff will take medical emergency and bus safety training. Cafeteria staff will take point-of-sale and nutrition training.

The board approved the renewal of the agreement from the Wawasee Yacht Club. The agreement allows Wawasee usage of the Yacht Club’s premises and equipment.

The board also approved the school resource officer agreement between Wawasee Community Schools and the town of Milford.

The duties of the school resource officer is to protect the lives and property of the citizens and public school students of the school district; to enforce state, and local criminal laws and ordinances, and to assist school officials with the enforcement of board of education policies and administrative regulations regarding student conduct; to investigate criminal activity committed on or adjacent to school property; to answer questions students may have about Indiana criminal or juvenile laws; to assist other law enforcement officers with outside investigations concerning students attending the

Apparently, when you bite into a hot pepper, your brain produces endorphins to reduce the heat you’re taking in. At the same time, those endorphins coursing through your body also reduce any pain and inflammation from other sources.

Mature Life Features Copyright 2023

school district; to provide traffic control during the arrival and departure of students and to assist school personnel in collecting information, interviewing students and assisting in search situations on campus as authorized by federal law, state law, and the Town of Milford Police Department policies and procedures. The term of the agreement will remain in effect until May 31, 2024.

The board approved the employment of Emily Worrell, director of communications and marketing; April Avila, special education paraprofessional; Evelyn Charles, student interm; Mystique Coy, remediation paraprofessional; Amanda Ducey, paraprofessional; Angelica Galindo, cafeteria worker; Tonna Gilson, developmental preschool paraprofessional; Shilah Morris, cafeteria worker; Brianna Mundo, assistant teacher; Linda Penrod, custodian; Lynae Rookstool, assistant teacher; and Marilyn Temple, paraprofessional.

The next regular Wawasee School Board meeting will be 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 10 in the Wawasee High School Warrior Room, 1 Warrior Path Building 1, Syracuse.

Commissioners open to amending Justice Building Security Ordinance

Kosciusko County Commissioners are open to amending a security ordinance they passed last moth for the Kosciusko County Justice Building. Leaders made the comments at the regular meeting Tuesday, Sept. 12, at which citizen Matt Banta voiced concerns about the new rules. The ordinance includes the following:

“No person, other than law enforcement officers, elected officials, officers of the court, and authorized security personnel for the Justice Building, shall possess within the Justice Building any ‘deadly weapon’ as defined by IC 35-31.5-2-86. IC 35-31.5-2-86, as amended from time to time, is hereby incorporated into and made a part of this Ordinance by reference.

“Except as otherwise authorized by one of the judges and except for law enforcement officers, elected officials, officers of the court, authorized security personnel for the Justice Building, and employees or contractors of the County or the State of Indiana that are conducting official business: no person shall use a device to record audio or video or to take pictures in the Justice Building, except at a public meeting governed by Indiana’s Open Door Law, IC 5-14-1.5, as amended from time to time; and, no person shall possess or use a mobile phone on the second floor of the Justice Building.

“A violation of either (the above sections) of this Ordinance may result in a fine up to, but not more than, $2,500 for a first violation and up to, but not more than, $7,500 for a second or subsequent violation per IC 36-1-3-8(a)(10)(B).”

Also through the ordinance: “No person shall bring food or drink into the Justice Building, except for persons that work at the Justice Building.

“A violation of (the above section) of this Ordinance may result in a fine up to, but not more than, $100 for a first violation and up to, but

not more than, $250 for a second or subsequent violation per IC 36-1-38(a)(10)(B).”

The ordinance allows Kosciusko County judges “to adopt more restrictive orders or rules within and about the courtrooms of the Justice Building” if they wish.

Judges said last month poor behavior in their courtrooms motivated them to request commissioners to create the ordinance. Among those behaviors were people recording confidential proceedings in courtrooms.

Banta noted Tuesday he was concerned about the cellphone restrictions.

“I was absolutely shocked because, in my mind, (the ordinance) seems to fly in the face of the Constitution,” he said. “In a public building that my tax dollars pay for, I can get a $2,500 ticket for walking into the (building) to record making a child support payment (or) … signing the paperwork (for a marriage license) … $7,500 if I do it the second time.”

He also took issue with the ordinance’s banning of cell phones totally for the public on the Justice Building’s second floor.

“In my mind, the judge needs to consider a courtroom on an individual basis,” said Banta. “You do not make the county citizenry pay for individuals that don’t know how to behave in a courtroom. You tell them what they’re doing is wrong. You fine them. You jail them, but you don’t take it out on me.” Commissioners’ President Brad Jackson said he “appreciate(d)” Banta’s coming before leaders to ask questions.

“This is what makes our country great,” he said.

“I think it’s good that he came in and brought this to our attention,” said Commissioner Cary Groninger. “It’s something that we’re looking at and trying to sort out what might be a more middle ground on some of this.”

He added leaders were meeting with county department heads to get feedback on the ordinance.

“I appreciate your input,” said Commissioners’ Vice President

Bob Conley.

“We are given the responsibility of keeping people safe,” he noted, adding regarding Banta’s talk on constitutional rights that people are allowed “to do these things as long as they’re done properly and decently and in order.”

“You also mentioned restricted areas, and that’s pretty much what that second floor is … for people who have to go there to do business and eventually possibly be testifying in court or be a witness in court and so we need to protect their rights from somebody videotaping them or getting information via their cellphone that they can use outside the courtroom,” said Conley.

He mentioned elements of the ordinance “are not etched in concrete,” saying commissioners could adjust them “if we feel that’s necessary.”

Jackson asked Banta be patient as commissioners look at changing parts of the ordinance.

“I have some things that I have a problem with that I want to see changed,” Jackson added.

In other business, commissioners:

• Approved, contingent on the Kosciusko County American Rescue Plan Act Committee also OK’ing it at its meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 13, to spend $400,000 of the county’s ARPA money on constructing a supplemental 180-foot tower in Sidney to improve public safety communications there. The Kosciusko County Council also has to OK the expenditure.

• Allowed Kosciusko County Community Corrections Director Barry Andrew to apply for a $10,000 grant. If received, monies from it will be used to pay for drug tests, conference travel costs and incentives for the drug court program.

• Approved a grant agreement with the state. The county is getting $226,500 through a matching grant program related to a multistate settlement with Johnson & Johnson, Cardinal Health, McKesson and AmerisourceBergen for the companies’ contribution to the national opioid epidemic.

Commissioners’ next meeting is 9 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26, in the Kosciusko County Courthouse’s Old Courtroom.

Park board debates over new roof for community center

Much of the Syracuse Parks and Recreation Board meeting centered on a discussion regarding a new roof for the Syracuse Community Center. During the Monday, Sept. 11, meeting, board members pondered over estimates for a new roof. Several bids came in for the roof, originally estimated to cost about $115,000; however, most of the bids were over that amount. One bid was as high as $211,400 from Master Steel Roofing, New Paris, and the lowest quote was $118,500 from Fine Line Roofing and Construction, Nappanee.

The other bids were $141,380.90, Clearview Roofing, Lagrange; and $157,485, Pro-Time Metal Roofing, Leesburg.

“We’ve got some funds potentially available said Superintendent Chad Jonsson, adding $115,000 could

County board of zoning makes decisions in difficult local cases

Lee Harman, president of the Kosciusko County Board of Zoning, set the pace during the board’s regular meeting Tuesday morning, Sept. 12, by not allowing emotions stall the petitions to be heard. A majority of the 15 cases the BZA heard had remonstrators to the petitions.

The board started with a continuance of two petitions from Shawn Senter who requested an exception allowing a temporary marina become permanent in a commercial district and to allow an above ground gas tank to remain 5 feet from the south property line where the ordinance requires 10 feet. Senter’s property is located in Turkey Creek Township.

Harman began the hearing by telling the audience the board heard extensive testimony at last month’s meeting. Matt Sandy, area plan director, reviewed the board’s decision to continue the case noting the board did receive additional information regarding the fuel tank.

Input was sought from Fire Chief Mickey Scott, Turkey Creek Fire Territory, and the Turkey Creek Sewer District. Andy Boxberger, attorney for the Turkey Creek Sewer District, informed the BZA the sewer district has a 36 foot easement that runs parallel to the water which would prevent any improvements. He stated the sewer district would not approve the fuel tank or the decking.

At one point Harman asked for a show of who was in support of the project. Senter and one other person stood up. When Harman asked for those who opposed the project to stand, approximately a dozen stood up.

After some discussion, the board approved the permanent marina, allowing Senter to sell and work on boats. The exception for the fuel tank and decking was denied.

The board also denied a request by Jane DeHaven who requested a variance to allow a generator to remain 0.8 feet from the property line. DeHaven’s property is in Turkey Creek Township.

This case was also continued so the board could obtain more information regarding if the generator could be maintained without trespassing on the neighbor’s property. The president of Colliers, the com-

pany that installed the generator, wrote a letter stating the generator needed very little maintenance, usually a battery replacement every five years. The neighbor remonstrating also provided a more thorough remonstrance.

Arthur Mandelbaum, an attorney representing DeHaven, addressed the trespassing concern explaining going onto the neighbor’s property would not be legally considered either criminal or civil trespass, since ill intent or damage was caused, but a legal error.

After denying the variance, DeHaven was giving 60 days to remove the generator from the side of her house. After the finding, local attorney Steve Snyder, suggested to Mandelbaum he appeal the decision in court.

The board approved a request from Dallas and Lois Seward who petitioned for a variance to permit the construction of a residence two feet from the south property line on a tract accessed by easement. The property is located in Tippecanoe Township.

Snyder, representing the Sewards, explained the couple want to construct a new home with a deck. The neighbors have no issues as the deck will be significantly higher than it currently is.

Harman asked about runoff. Snyder said the retaining wall would help spread any runoff out. The board approved the petition with the request the affected neighbor provide a letter of support.

The board heard a petition to have $5,000 settlement from an earlier case waived. The petitioner explained how she made a mistake regarding the placement of a porch and an air conditioner. Board member Kevin McSherry pointed out the board could not waive the settlement. However after some discussion the board did agree to reduce the settlement amount to $2,500.

Continued Cases

• The board chose to continue the case of William Rensberger, who seeks a variance to access a proposed two lot subdivision by allowing a 16 foot easement where 50 feet is required. The property is located in Tippecanoe Township.

• The board continued the case of Frank James, who petitioned for a variance to allow a residence addition garage remain as constructed without permits or hearings. His property is in Prairie Township. An

come from the town’s American Rescue Plan Act fund. “We have some money in the park improvement fund.”

After discussing the roof project, park board members decided to hold off on a new roof due to the higher bids. When asked if the current roof is okay for another year, Jonsson said “yes, we should be fine.”

Jonsson gave an update on Schrock Fields, which is now complete. The first pee wee football games were played Saturday, Sept. 9.

The day also included ribboncutting ceremony for the new Dick Pelletier Football Field.

Middle school football games started at the end of August.

“We painted the field the day before and cleaned up Tuesday, Sept. 5. “It seems to be operating as it was designed,” he said of the new ball field, adding the parking lot can accommodate 315 vehicles.

There will be trees planted and

removed this fall, said Jonsson, who gave the tree board report. He said nine will be planted in the fall at various places in Syracuse.

“We are also developing a (tree) removal list, depending on costs,” said Jonsson. Henry Ward Park’s rest room and pavilion project is coming along. The new playground will possibly be installed next spring as well as four Polywood picnic tables.

In other news, Darin Lursen gave the program report.

The Harvest Festival will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7.

Lursen said there are 25 vendors so far for the event, which also includes animals, inflatables, obstacle course, games, pumpkin decorating and hayrides. He said close to 30 to 40 vendors will be at the festival.

An indoor garage sale will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14. Lursen said during registration, “We had 20 people here and so now it is down to six spots.”

A potential new park board member, Kristin Abbs, attended the meeting. A nurse, she has lived in Syracuse since 2018. The board voted to have her join the park board. The final decision now lays in the hands of the Syracuse Town Council. Jonsson handed out a letter he is sending to commercial mower dealers requesting quotes for a new zero-turn mower. The parks department is also interested in trading in a 2012 John Deere Z950A. The 2012 mower comes with a rear bagging system and has approximately 1,500 hours of usage. Quotes must be received by Jonsson no later than Wednesday, Nov. 8. Jonsson gave the financial report for August and from Aug. 14 to Sept. 11. He purchased a new charcoal grill for Ward Park for $459.99. “We’ve got some money left in spots,” he said. The next meeting is at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 9, at SCC.

issue came up before James could make his case as Sandy informed the board he received signed affidavits from neighbors who could be impacted. After receiving the signed affidavits, two neighbors called the area plan office stating the signatures were not theirs. James was instructed to do notifications by certified mail this time.

• The board continued the case of Stephen Smith who is seeking a variance to permit a 10 foot by 20 foot covered porch and a 7 foot by 10 foot open deck. The property is located in Tippecanoe Township.

Approved Cases

• The board approved a request from Daryl Miller to allow decking and a roof to remain as constructed without permits or hearing. Miller is required to obtain an after the fact permit. Miller’s property is in Turkey Creek Township.

• The board approved a request from Brian and Valerie Wassall for a variance allowing a mobile home to remain as placed. Valerie Wassall told the board she replaced an older mobile home and the pad, water and sewer were already in place. She was required to obtain an after the fact permit. The property is located in Tippecanoe Township.

• The board approved a request from Anthony and Mallory Hill to construct an accessory building 18 feet from the right of way. The Hills property is located in Franklin Township.

• The board approved a request by Anthony Shepherd to keep a shed. It needs to be moved to the north side of his property with a 29 foot setback from the river and a 15 foot setback from the road.

Denied Cases

• The board denied a petition from Star Smith to permit a 12 foot by 18 foot shed to remain 2 feet 8 inches from the property line. Smith admitted she measured from the wrong spot when she measured for the 15 foot setback. She thought the paved edge of the alley behind her home was the property line and it is not. Her neighbor remonstrated as did the Town of Milford. Her property is located in Van Buren Township. She has 45 days to move the shed to the required 15 foot setback.

• The board denied a request from Donald Bruce to allow a home based business, a food truck, in an agricultural district. The property is located in Tippecanoe Township.

Rockies foil Warriors in fourth quarter

The dream of a 2-0 start in Northern Lakes Conference play turned into a disappointing fin-

ish for the Wawasee varsity football team Friday, Sept. 8, against Plymouth. The host Warriors led 10-0 during the first quarter but were outscored 25-9 for the rest of the game. The 25-19 defeat dropped the Warriors to 1-3 and

Senior captain leads Lady Warriors at NLC

It would be safe bet to say Wawasee had the least experience of all the Northern Lakes Conference teams Saturday, Sept. 9, at the Eberhart-Petro Golf Course. Coach Steve Coverstone still liked what he saw from his team going up against quality teams.

“I think we played pretty well today. Was impressed with where we are at. With as much inexperience as we have as a team I think we played pretty well,” Coverstone said.

Wawasee was seventh out of the eight NLC teams with a team score of 423. Wawasee did beat Mishawaka.

Senior Delaney Delagrange shot a team-best 95. Assistant coach Laura Coverstone thought Delgrange showed resiliency in what turned out to be one of her best outings this season.

“She got off to a rough start but she came back and played well,” Laura Coverstone said. Delagrange shot 14 strokes on the first two holes but got settled in to make three pars on the day.

Francie McDonald was second on the team with a 104. Junior Ava

Couture shot a 109 as this is her first season playing the sport. Steve and Laura both agree Couture has grown the most in the short girls golf season.

“She just started playing this year. Never touched a club,” Laura Coverstone said.

Taelyn Tom shot a 115 and Emma Young a 118 to round out the scoring for Wawasee.

The Lady Warriors only have one match left in the regular season, Wednesday, Sept. 13, at Whitko. Sectionals begin Saturday, Sept. 16, at Stonehenge Golf Course in Warsaw.

The Warriors are optimistic on how they will do in the state tournament.

“The odds are not obviously with us but you can always get out as a team. We’ve had individuals get out each of the last two years,” Steve Coverstone said.

Regardless of how sectionals go, the program has battled through a season where the coaches were not sure if they would have enough players. “We only had two players out for the team,” Steve Coverstone said. “We just begged people to play. In our first match we had girls out on the course and it was the first time they had ever been out on the golf course in any type of competition.”

1-1 in NLC action.

“We made too many mistakes,” coach Jon Reutebuch said. “Turnovers, penalties at the wrong time. Not finishing off drives. Things we need to do to win and we didn’t do those things tonight.”

The Warriors were less than five yards away from tying the game and even taking the lead with a point after touchdown late in the fourth quarter. Senior quarterback Mason Shoemaker found senior Lucas Linder in the end zone for what appeared to be a passing touchdown. However, the referees ruled Linder had stepped out of bounds and came back in for an illegal touching penalty.

“I know he was out of bounds and he came back in and you can’t do that,” Reutebuch said. “I would have to look at film to see if he was actually pushed out of bounds because that makes a dif-

ference. All I saw was him come back in bounds and catch the ball and that’s illegal if you’re not pushed.” Shoemaker would get two more throws to the end zone but both were incomplete. Plymouth (22) earned one first down on the next possession to run out the clock. It was the first NLC win the Rockies had since beating Wawasee in 2020, breaking a 15-game skid in conference play.

Plymouth junior quarterback Exzander Ramirez ran the football for 167 yards and two touch-

downs while also adding 170 yards in the air.

“He’s always tough to bring down,” Reutebuch said on Ramirez. “If you watch film on him against anybody he plays he is always tough to bring down. He’s a good football player. You can’t take him down with shoulder tackles. You got to take his legs out. There were too many times we were reaching and grabbing around the shoulders.”

The Warriors had success rushing the football too with senior Hunter Tinkey adding 170 yards. Tinkey had a 54-yard touchdown

early in the game. Junior Barrett Kelly and senior Brandon Kelly each accounted for over 60 yards each. However, Wawasee had two fumbles in the game preventing more points.

On defense, Kelly added 10 tackles to lead the team. Senior Peyton Sewell added eight tackles, a fumble recovery and a teamhigh two tackles for loss.

The schedule for the Warriors picks up the final five games of the regular season with ranked conference opponents. Wawasee visits Class 3A No. 12 Concord 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 15.

“We’ve got to play mad,” Reutebuch said. “We’ve got to play upset because we have given some games away that we had every opportunity to win. We just didn’t make the plays needed to win and we are still learning how to do that.”

Flag football building victories and team culture

Playing at home for the first time this season, the unified flag football team captured an 18-13 victory over Central Noble Thursday, Sept. 7.

For coach Andrew Wilson, wining the game is only part of the enjoyment.

“The best part of unified flag football is how the team comes together,” Wilson said. “Unified sports are all about inclusion and building a community where there are no judgements and everybody has a fair shake to compete, have fun and do their best.”

Wawasee lost its first game to Carroll, 38-13, on Aug. 28. Wilson noticed a big improvement from the first game as his team adjusted to the changes in the rule book for this season.

“With some of the rules changes that went with unified this summer, it is a bit of a learning curve for our team,” Wilson said.

“We had some things change up. We got a lot better from last game to this game so I’m very happy with the progress we made in the last week.”

In the win over Central Noble, freshman Jaxon Fawley accounted for a passing touchdown to junior Tyler Pinkerton. Rushing touchdowns came from sophomore Gabe Ward and senior Charlie Krull.

On Saturday, Sept. 9, the Warriors split two games at the Valparaiso Invitational. Wawasee defeated Twin Lakes 46-36 in the first game but fell to East Noble 42-20 in the title game of the invite. The Warriors led at the half against the Knights before East Noble pulled away.

The unified flag football regular season lasts only one month with the next home game against Tippecanoe Valley on Monday, Sept. 18. The game will be senior night for the Warriors. One week later on Monday, Sept. 25, will be

autograph night when Warsaw visits Warrior Field. Fans can get signed posters of the team at the game.

“We are encouraging all our middle school kids that qualified to be athletes to come out and see what we are all about,” Wilson

said. “We are all competing but we are encouraging everybody to have fun. Come out and watch us play. It’s a fun sport.”

Young Warriors show speed

The Wawasee elementary cross country championship race was held at Syracuse Elementary Monday, Sept. 11. Third, fourth and fifth grade boys and girls from all three elementary schools in the school corporation competed in the race.

The night started with the boys race where Jordan Gammon, a fifth grader from Syracuse Elementary won with a time of 6:16, followed by his teammate Decklyn Sheets. Bronson Allen from North Webster was third, fourth was Liam Garcia from Syracuse and fifth was Graysen Shiply from North Webster. In the team competition Milford was third, North Webster second and Syracuse Elementary won with a team score of 23 points. Cambrie Garden, a fourth grader from North Webster Elementary won the girls race by 22 seconds.

Her teammates joining her in the top five were Isabella Johnson, Braylie Mickem, Blythe Crabil and Amelia Mock. In the team scoring North Webster scored a perfect score with 15 points, followed by Syracuse and then Milford.

Grade Winners

Third grade boys: Beck Heil, 6:51

Fourth grade boys: Laim Garcia, 6:47

Fifth grade boys: Jordan Gammon, 6:16

Third grade girls: Amelia Mock, 7:58

Fourth grade girls: Cambrie Garden, 6:54

Fifth grade girls: Isabella Johnson

Maxwelton Ladies League golf results

The Maxwelton Ladies League held a most pars in a row contest on Wednesday, Sept. 6, with Norine Troeger

taking home first place honors. Connie Stillson was second as she was also the low putts winner.

WHS suspends assistant cheerleading coach Campbell

Wawasee High School has suspended assistant cheerleading coach Heather Campbell, 21, for inappropriate behavior. Campbell’s suspension began on Friday, Sept.

8, as WHS turned over the investigation to law enforcement the same day. This was Campbell’s first year coaching for WHS. The incident is still under investigation.

Lady Warriors trying to tear down NLC wall

ger than they physically are. That is where that mental game comes in.”

Warsaw edges out Wawasee tennis

Host Wawasee took their county rival Warsaw to the wire Tuesday, Sept. 12, but fell 3-2.

The Warriors won both No. 1 and No. 2 singles as coach Vince Rhodes likes what he is seeing from his top two players in junior Joey Harper and Kane Dukes. The Northern Lakes Conference tournament is next week as Harper and Dukes will be high seeds thanks to their wins Tuesday.

“They will get a good seed in the NLC tournament,” Rhodes said. “They won’t be playing a number one guy right away.”

Harper won 6-2, 6-3 while Dukes prevailed 6-1, 6-4.

Senior Ty Brooks was unavailable for the match as he normally plays No. 1 doubles. As a result, the Warriors had to change their doubles to pairings that had not play together before. Juniors Evan Byler and Dane Cripe lost at No. 1 doubles and seniors Caden Pratt and Will Long fell at No. 2 doubles. Both losses were in straight sets.

“They hadn’t played together all season, it makes a difference,” Rhodes said.

The match came down to No. 3 singles where junior Brayden Miller took on Warsaw freshman Henry Norton. Norton would win 6-2, 6-2.

Wawasee varsity volleyball has entered the Northern Lakes Conference portion of its schedule as the competition ramps up. The Lady Warriors had a chance to knock off Goshen Thursday, Sept. 7, taking the first set 25-20. The visiting RedHawks won the next three sets 25-23, 25-23, 25-17 to steal a conference win on the road.

“They started off really strong. They started off as the team that I know they are capable of being,” coach Stephanie Denlinger said. “They got a little discouraged with a couple of point deficits. Some of them they were able to fight their way out. Others they couldn’t get past it.”

Wawasee went winless in NLC play last season and was just 1-6 in 2021. Despite challenges in conference games, the Warriors still finished with 20 or more wins in those two seasons. Wawasee currently sits 0-2 in NLC games with a another conference foe 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 14, at Concord.

“It’s going to be a fight,” Denlinger said about NLC play. “A lot of these teams are just physically larger than we are. It’s going to be a matter of getting these girls into the mentality of playing big-

Against Goshen, Wawasee held a 19-16 lead in the third set with a chance to grab a 2-1 lead. The RedHawks countered with their size and height at the net to make a rally. Junior Mackenzie Hackleman led the team in kills (8) and tied for the team-high in digs with 14. Junior Abby Dusek also had 14 digs and led the Lady Warriors in assists at 13.

Wawasee fell in a non-conference game to Westview at home Monday, Sept. 11, despite leading 2-1 after three sets. Westview would win the battle of the Warriors 25-13, 19-25, 22-25, 25-22, 15-10.

Hackleman led the Warriors in kills in the Westview game with 16. Dusek hit 32 assists and senior Jolie Likens finished with 20 digs.

A three-game skid has moved Wawasee to 6-7 but Denlinger is seeing growth in the defeats.

“I think it is more of a mental game than anything we need to fix on the floor,” Denlinger said. “We are definitely getting better on the mental side of it now. I’ve seen a lot of improvement even in the course of a week.”

The Warriors host the Wawasee Invitational starting at 9 a.m. Saturday.

Roundup

Girls Golf

Sept. 6 — Wawasee fell to Culver Academies 168-213. Senior Delaney Delagrange led the Lady Warriors with a 50.

Sept. 7 — The Lady Warriors were second of three teams beating Mishawaka but losing to NorthWood. Wawasee had a team score of 223 as junior Ava Couture had the top score with a 53.

Girls Soccer

Sept. 6 — Wawasee battled Central Noble to a scoreless draw. Junior Natalie Katzer played keeper for 80 minutes and had 10 saves.

Sept. 7 — Wawasee fell to East Noble 2-0 at home.

Sept. 12 — Wawasee lost to Columbia City 5-0 with three goals conceded in the second half. Next game is 6 p.m. Thursday at Elkhart Christian.

Boys Soccer

Sept. 7 — The Warriors added three goals in the second half to beat Lakeland 3-0.

Senior Grant Likens added two goals and one more came from sophomore Dylan Hively. It was the third victory for Wawasee this season.

Sept. 11 — Wawasee fell to Bremen 7-1 to drop to 3-41 this season. Next game is at Columbia City 7:15 p.m.

Wednesday, Sept. 13.

Boys Tennis

Sept. 7 — Wawasee tennis picked up an NLC victory, 3-2, over Northridge. Juniors Joey Harper, Kane Dukes and

Brayden Miller all won singles matches.

Sept. 11 — Wawasee earned a sweep of West Noble 5-0 for its 12 victory of the season.

Junior Varsity Football

Sept. 9 — A 27-21 loss to Plymouth dropped Wawasee to 3-1 this season. Wawasee will host Concord 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 16.

Cross-Country

Sept. 12 — The girls and boys ran their second NLC meet of the season at Warsaw with both making improvements. The girls were eighth but had multiple runners with personal records in sophomore America Benitez, junior Cyanna Leon, Heatherlynn Holder, Aowyn Fuller and Alexis Nunemaker. The boys finished fifth out of the eight NLC teams and were led by junior Hunter Allen. Allen was 26th overall and featured a personal record time of 17;25. Freshman JD Stoffel, freshman Ivan Waikel, junior Issac Winters and senior Landen Kessler all had personal records.

Unified Flag Football

Sept. 12 — The Warriors went on the road to Goshen and won 32-24 to move to 3-2. Junior Brooklyn Rose rushed for a touchdown, caught a touchdown pass, recorded an interception on defense and passed for a first down. Wawasee will have its senior night 6:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 18 when it hosts Tippecanoe Valley.

Rhodes felt Miller had a chance to win but his inexperience showed.

“He’s only in his second year so he tries to keep the ball back. They were waiting for one anoth-

er to make a mistake. When that happens you just have to try to play aggressive,” Rhodes said.

The loss moves Wawasee to 12-4 and 3-2 in NLC play. The record is still the best mark Rhodes

has had with the team since his first year in 2012. Wawasee travels to Manchester 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 13. Another conference match awaits on Thursday, Sept, 14 at Mishawaka.

County council approves wage recommendations, department budgets

Before approving the various 2024 budgets department by department, section by section over nearly a three-hour meeting Tuesday night, the Kosciusko County Council approved the wage committee’s recommendations unanimously.

In presenting the wage recommendations, Councilwoman Sue Ann Mitchell said several meetings were held by the committee to write the recommendations.

The recommendations included a full-time position for the American Rescue Plan Act Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program community coordinator at a Professional Administrative Technical IV II at two years of service on the salary chart.

“We support the prosecutor’s request for two new positions — legal assistant/secretary and a trial support paralegal. This need was reinforced by (Clerk) Ann Torpy’s reduction of two employees. When Ann spoke with us, she encouraged us to add two positions in the prosecutor’s office. These positions will be established as COMOT (clerical) II positions,” Mitchell said.

The committee also approved recommending the property tax assessment board of appeals coordinator be moved to a COMOT I due to the “important responsibilities of that position that require a great deal of knowledge in processing,” she said.

The committee agreed to continuing the public health specialist position in the health department as a part-time job. That position will be moved to the PAT VI level at the 10-year level of service.

They also supported the highway department hiring one new office staff position in March 2024 through March 2025 in preparation for the two current employees retiring at the same time in 2025. They are at the PAT VI level. The position established for 2024 and overlapping into 2025 will be eliminated and the budget will return to two office staff people in 2025.

The wage committee agreed to establish the same per diem for each county board with the exception of the election board and annual merit board amounts.

Mitchell said, “The committee recommends a flat amount of $2,000 for 2024 raises instead of a percentage raise. This will help close the widening gap that impacts lower-paid employees.”

She said the committee also tried to establish a job classification for all part-time employees who perform the same job as fulltime employees and pay them equally per hour based on their job experience.

Part-time positions are to conform to the personnel policy for the number of hours that they would be allowed to work.

The part-time budget amounts will be approved at the amount requested with the pay controlled by way of the hourly salary ordinance. When the hours are established for each position, the budgets will be aligned appropriately, Mitchell said.

Cathy Reed, county human resources director, will be working with each department that has part-time money to be able to identify the number of hours that they actually need. Mitchell said the council will approve those.

“If employees have served in another department and trans-

ferred to a position unrelated to their prior experience within the county and were given credit for their years of service in the prior department, they will be grandfathered in and will advance when their years of service in the current position exceed the step where they started on the salary chart,” she said.

Future transfers from positions with unrelated job duties will be evaluated for their skill level and years of service and will be paid accordingly.

“It is recommended that each part-time position have an individual account number so only one person is paid out of each part-time account so it can be readily tracked and we’ll have a much-better handle on the money that is actually being spent,” she said.

Councilman Dave Wolkins said he liked the fact that the county was giving a flat allowance rather than a percentage “because the higher-paid employees get a whole lot more than the lower-paid. I like that concept very much.”

Councilwoman Kathleen Groninger said she liked it, too, but it didn’t address the sheriff’s department.

Mitchell said that was correct and there was another caveat to it.

“The sheriff’s department will be receiving not the $2,000 but will be receiving $5,000. It will include all of the public servant people, so that will include the jailers, dispatchers, work release, sheriff’s department,” she said.

The clerical staff of the sheriff’s department are not included as they will receive the $2,000 allowance.

Council President Mike Long asked Mitchell to elaborate on

why the sheriff’s department was being treated differently.

“A year ago we sat down and worked on salaries for the sheriff’s department. We realized the money was not near as beneficial to the employees as what other department wages are. So we agreed a year ago that we would try to continue to move that up to where it was a competitive wage. We feel like this is going to help move that along,” Mitchell said.

Councilwoman Kimberly Cates, who also sits on the wage committee, said they also felt like everyone in the sheriff’s department — whether at the jail, on patrol or on a 911 call — are dealing with the public “and we need to reward them as best as we can.”

The end result will be that the county’s cash outlay will be somewhere around $900,000 for employees, Mitchell estimated.

“So we’re trying to keep those wages up so that we have qualified employees,” she said.

Councilwoman Joni Truex, also on the wage committee, said they also hope the increases will help with retention.

Mitchell made a motion to approve the wage committee recommendations, Truex seconded it and it was approved 7-0.

Along with Mitchell, Truex and Cates, the wage committee includes County Commissioner Brad Jackson.

The budget figures have already been advertised on Gateway, so the only actions the council could take on the budgets Tuesday were to approve them as presented or cut them.

The council’s regularly scheduled monthly meeting is at 6 p.m. Thursday. The budget adoption is scheduled for the Oct. 12 meeting.

Vanishing Indiana wetlands threaten water quality, hike flood risk

Indiana is losing wetlands even as the state has made some effort to protect them. Wetlands provide wildlife habitat, purify and recharge groundwater for drinking, and reduce flood risks by storing water. However, Indiana has lost up to 90% of its wetlands. The legislature provided some protection for the rest in 2021, but last year, a special task force found that shrinking wetlands are having significant negative effects on the environment.

Indra Frank, director of environmental health and water policy at the Hoosier Environmental Council says lawmakers should be doing more. “Now we have data showing that our state’s wetlands law is not doing much in the way of protection.

So, the Indiana General Assembly certainly could make changes,” Frank said. “They could also make changes to provide incentives for landowners who preserve or who restore wetlands.”

Indiana has about 800,000 wetland acres, down from more than 5 million 200 years ago — and has no

School

statewide plan to manage them. A poll by the Audubon Society found more than half the people surveyed in Indiana said they would prioritize protecting water sources and habitats over landowners’ and developers’ rights.

Frank contends another governing body of ‘tossing the ball’ rather than protecting wetlands. This spring, a U.S. Supreme Court ruling restricted which bodies of water can be protected under the federal Clean Water Act. She said the decision dropped the amount of Indiana wetlands with federal protection from 80%, to 20%.

“Now we’re in a position where Indiana’s remaining wetlands have very little federal protection and very little state protection,” Frank continued. “The Supreme Court’s decision basically said that the fate of the wetlands is up to the states.”

Since then, attempts have been made in the Indiana General Assembly to make wetlands protection even harder. But the Audubon Society poll also found almost 75% of residents surveyed would have a “less favorable” impression of a state lawmaker who voted to relax wetland protections.

Work from home is here to stay

Work from home continues to grow at a reasonably steady pace.

In 2019, perhaps 150,000 Hoosiers worked at home at least part time. Today, 633,000 work from home full time, and another 463,000 work from home between one and four days per week. That’s more than 1 million workers, or 31% of our workforce. Indiana has two remote workers for every factory worker, and remote work is growing.

Kayla Jackson named to SNHU president’s list

Kayla Jackson of Syracuse has been named to Southern New Hampshire University’s summer 2023 president’s list. The summer terms run from May to August. Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a mini-

mum grade-point average of 3.700 and above for the reporting term are named to the president’s list. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired eight-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring and summer.

Authorized Dealer

Authorized Dealer

The national landscape shows an even higher share of remote workers. A full 39.5% of households report at least one person working remotely. One in five workers nationwide is fully remote. That is 34 million Americans who are fully remote and 32 million who are partially remote. There are now more remote workers than there were ever baby boomers in the labor force.

Five out of every six remote workers have been to college, and most have graduated. These are traditionally the most mobile workforce, which almost certainly means we are in the early years of what is the largest internal migration the U.S. has ever experienced. This could well be 10 times larger than the Great Migration of AfricanAmericans into northern states, and three times the size of the baby boom shuffling.

The disequilibrium of families moving, jobs and occupations realigning, and wage and work structure changing has just begun. My hunch is that it will last at least three decades. There are labor market and geographic effects of this type of migration. There will be farreaching consequences.

Jobs that must be done in person will increasingly carry a wage premium, whether this is nursing, production, trades, teaching or retail. Until prices and wages for these goods and services adjust, firms will continue to complain of labor shortages. Remote work is popular, which means that workers who want that environment may have to forego a bit of their salary for the convenience. Of course, work from home is cheaper for workers than office work.

Labor markets will sort these things out well, and workers who want more money for their skill level will do ‘in person’ jobs, while workers who want more flexibility will give up some earnings. These adjustments should result in folks being better off from realizing these choices. But, this has implications for the cost of government.

Much of what government does is mostly in person. Teaching, policing and soldiering are all in-person jobs. We’re in the midst of discovering we will need to pay more for these types of workers, and it’s going to get worse. I suspect the biggest effect will be felt in education.

Teaching is traditionally low pay, with higher flexibility. That flexibility appeals to workers who plan on raising families. So, many teachers trade lower wages for greater labor

force flexibility. Remote work entirely upends that model. A young woman today who seeks flexibility and a good salary could become an accountant or economist. The pay is better, and you can work at home.

Remote work will almost surely raise the cost of providing highquality public services. Voters should keep a keen eye on this issue. I’m afraid far too many elected leaders in the Midwest won’t fully appreciate this, nor will they understand the dynamics of migration. The reason for this is that almost any Midwesterner over the age of 50 has been raised to believe that low taxes, a modest regulatory environment, and tax incentives will usher in a new prosperity. That this has not worked for decades, but that failure is becoming spectacularly obvious.

In the two years since COVID, 60% of the population growth in Indiana was concentrated in four counties with the highest effective state and local tax rates. The combined population among the half of counties with the lowest state and local tax rates was a loss of 204 people. Again, the population of the four counties with the highest effective state and local tax rates grew by more people than the lowest 88 counties combined.

At the same time, the 10 counties with the highest home prices grew by 31,510 people, while the cheapest 82 counties grew by only 12,728. The half of counties with the cheapest housing grew by only 78 people, or 0.0052%.

This might come as a surprise to many folks conditioned to believe that low taxes and low-cost housing are a magnet for new residents. They are not. This is not confined only to Indiana. Cable TV touts the movement of people from California to Texas. That is happening, but the overwhelming movement is people coming from the low-tax, low-cost counties of California to the high-tax, high-cost counties in Texas. Much like Indiana, half the population growth of Texas is occurring in a handful of counties that have average state and local taxes that are higher than California.

Much of the population growth is migration of families who can choose to live wherever they wish.

So, why are they choosing higher cost, higher tax places? The answer is simple — those are the places with good schools, low crime, and cultural and recreational opportunities. These are traditional quality of life amenities that some places have in abundance, while others have in limited supply.

There’s another factor as well. Families with someone working at home also need more space. One, perhaps two, home offices are needed, and for some, extra play space for kids who are home while parents work. I think much of the remote work migration is less about cost of living, and more about finding housing that is qualitatively different than those that couldn’t handle one or two people working from home.

I might be wrong about this, but if people were fleeing high-cost places, we’d expect home prices in Carmel and Fishers to drop substantially. We’d also expect a new building boom in rural Indiana and Illinois. Nothing remotely like that is happening.

Community Corner

Local band ‘If I Should Die’ to rock on regional tour

Jonathan Ensz and Dalton Bloom met while in the Army, and a talent search led them to find Zakkary Moreno. Together, they form “If I Should Die,” and are about to embark on their first regional tour. The band is making their debut performance 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30, at Piere’s Entertainment Center, 5629 St. Joe Road, Fort Wayne. The show is nearly sold out.

Moreno is the band’s clean vocalist, Ensz is the heavy vocalist and plays the rhythm guitar and Bloom plays the bass. The music writing is very collaborative for the band; they are constantly sending each other music and lyric samples. The band is currently auditioning a lead guitar player and a drummer.

“I feel like we write incredibly poetic lyrics with a lot of metaphors and meaning. A lot of lyrics are open to interpretation. We have songs about heartache, toxic relationships and our experience leaving the church. It is uplifting and heartbreaking,” Ensz continued. The band has recently released their first full length album, “Perdition,” on Friday, Sept. 1. This was the band’s first project together, but Ensz and Bloom do have a six-track EP together. The EP was released last year.

PROFILE

“I was about to quit music in 2020, it was a bad year, as I am sure it was for everyone. I kept playing and recording myself. They asked me to join the band and it was an immediate yes,” Moreno explained. Moreno continues to make solo music when he has time between band projects. His solo music is under ZKKRYMRNO.

“The actual band name ‘If I Should Die’ comes from a World War I poem and it fits since we are all veterans. The poem is about a World War I veteran writing to his love back home, knowing she is not going to like the man war has made him become, so he writes in the poem to say, ‘If I should die, remember me how I was.’ We fell in love with that. If something were to happen, we want the same thing: remember us through our music how we were,” Ensz explained. The band describes themselves as “metalcore” and angry, but lyrically motivating.

Milford Public Library —

Syracuse Public Library — ‘In The Garden’ to tour Defries Gardens

“Getting out of your comfort zone leads you to great things. It is one of the main things you need to keep in the back of your head. I have no performing experience besides a couple jam sessions. Put yourself out there and see what happens. Great things are always around the corner,” Bloom mentioned. The band hopes to inspire aspiring musicians to keep pursuing music, just like their favorite bands inspired them.

“That’s our biggest message to aspiring musicians: put yourself out there. Zakk put himself out there by recording his music. We put our band out there by reaching out to Smash Concerts and we continue to put ourselves out there by adding tour dates,” Ensz added, Moreno nodded in agreement. The band is headlining multiple shows and has openers like Mushroomhead and New Day Rising.

The tour is being orchestrated by Smash Concerts and new tour dates continue to be announced on the band’s Facebook page. The band is excited to start their regional tour, but they have their eyes set on playing a national tour. To stay up-to-date with tour dates and ticket sales, follow the band at facebook.com/IfIShouldDie/. Tickets are also available through the venue’s website.

Syracuse Public Library’s In the Garden group will tour Defries Gardens, 17477 CR 46, New Paris, at 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21. Home to a calendar garden, Defries has native and horticultural plantings, which follow the seasons throughout the year. A 365-foot circular path marks each day as it leads visitors through seasons of bloom.

The group last visited in June 2022, so it will be interesting to see what is in bloom during September. Anyone interested in nature is welcome to attend. Meet at the gardens.

For information, contact Sarah Wright at swright@syracuse.lib. in.us.

Young Adult Programming

Make the Syracuse Public Library a relaxation destination during Color & Chill. This coloring session for teens and young adults runs from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 20, in the Rosalyn Jones Room. The library provides coloring book pages, coloring instruments and snacks.

A new young adult book club Discord option has been added for September. Join the digital discussion of “Stalking Jack the

Ripper” by Kerri Maniscalco from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 20. For information on how to access the Discord server, speak with Amber Cox in person at the library, by phone — (574) 4573022, ext. 2008 — or by email, ajcox@syracuse.lib.in.us.

Board and card game enthusiasts will want to join young adult board game night from 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21, in the Rosalyn Jones Room. The group will place “Wingspan,” a board game where players seek to discover and attract the best birds to their network of wildlife preserves.

Children’s Programming Continues

Move & Groove Club will meet at 4 p.m. Monday, Sept. 18, in the downstairs meeting room. Children in kindergarten through fifth grade will participate in several dancing games while making new friends.

Story time continues its exploration of the alphabet at 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays in the children’s department. Preschool-aged children work their way through the alphabet while having fun stories read to them. Additionally, chil-

dren’s librarian Megan Daumen has begun working in Spanish and American Sign Language. At the end of each session, there is usually a craft, too.

Younger children — grades first through third — will learn all about shipwrecks with Sarah Wright during Homeschool Class at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 20, 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.”

Sign Up Now For ‘Wings Of Fire’ Party Love “Wings of Fire”? The Syracuse Public Library is hosting a “Wings of Fire” Party from 121:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30, in the downstairs meeting room. Attendees will make several themed items, including a dragon painting, dragon egg and a dragon eye. Space is limited, so sign up using the library’s digital calendar or in person at the library. The party is open to children ages 7-11.

National Library Card sign-up month

The American Library Association and libraries unite in a national effort to ensure every child signs up for their own library card during the month of September.

Milford Public Library staff is happy to help you sign up for a library card. If you live in Van Buren or East Jefferson Townships, you can get a card at MPL. If you are a student, teacher or support staff in Wawasee Community School Corporation, you can get a card at MPL.

It only takes a few minutes to get a card. Take your identification to the adult circulation desk and ask for a new library card. They get new books and DVDs every week. Customers can use Libby to download e-books or

digital magazines to enjoy. If you don’t see what you are looking for, please ask library staff. Maybe the book is on display or waiting to be cataloged. Celebrate the joy of reading by visiting your local library regularly. It’s amazing what is available to the community through the library.

Loans Between Evergreen Libraries

As most library patrons are aware, the library has been having difficulties with the new courier service since switching. On Aug. 30, they were informed the Indiana State Library has cancelled the contract with the new courier and will transition back to the courier they had before. To help with this transition, the li-

Mobile Meals drivers

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

Syracuse Drivers Sept. 18-22

MONDAY — S. Gilbert

TUESDAY — P. & L. Stump

WEDNESDAY — D. & K. Matz

THURSDAY — C. Hill

FRIDAY — P. Smith

Milford Drivers Sept. 18-22

MONDAY — B. Harkness

TUESDAY — K. Stanley

WEDNESDAY — C. & J. Wagoner

THURSDAY — L. Kammerer FRIDAY — S. Weisser

North Webster Drivers Sept. 18-22

MONDAY — G. Smith

TUESDAY — B. & K. Turner

WEDNESDAY — A. Renner

THURSDAY — B. Kennedy

FRIDAY — A. Mock

Bridge Results

brary is requesting patrons stop the placement of holds outside of your home library for a short time period.

There will be no deliveries or pickups Sept. 1-10. The courier will resume pickups and deliveries on Sept. 11. Evergreen Indiana resource sharing will be available again on Sept. 17, with all existing open holds updated. Library staff is sorry for all the inconvenience this has caused patrons. Please give us a few more weeks to get everything sorted out and soon you will be able to get your hold requests in a timely fashion.

September LEGO Challenge

The monthly LEGO Challenge is back. September’s challenge is to build a squirrel. Make sure a

photo of your creation is sent to milford@milford.lib.in.us by 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 26. The winner will receive a new LEGO kit.

Mini Masterpiece Contest

During the month of September, stop by the library to register for the Mini Masterpiece Contest. Pick up a kit with a 3-by-3 canvas, easel, paintbrush and paint at the adult or children’s desk and register to participate in the contest. You can paint anything you love. Love your cat? Paint a mini masterpiece of your cat. Animals, flowers, superheroes, favorite cartoon characters, whatever you love can become your mini masterpiece. Patrons preschool age and up are invited to participate. Contest rules are posted at the circulation

week. Prizes will be awarded the first week of October. You don’t have to be a professional artist. Just have fun with it and see what happens. DELI MEAT

desks. Mini masterpieces will be displayed above the adult DVD shelves in the adult/teen department from Sept. 25-30. Patrons can vote for their favorites that

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INDEX

ANNOUNCEMENTS ....................A005-A100

BUSINESS SERVICE...................C010-C430 EMPLOYMENT.............................E010-E080

FARM ...........................................G010-G070

FINANCIAL ..................................H010-H030 INSTRUCTION .............................K010-K020

ANNOUNCEMENTS

LEISURE, RECREATIONAL ........M010-M110 MERCHANDISE ...........................P010-P290 PETS ............................................Q010-Q030 REAL ESTATE SALES ................S010-S110 REAL ESTATE RENTALS

th

It happened in North Webster ... 50 years ago

New scrambles layout at Trojan Motorcycle Speedway

10 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 11, 2013

Beth Becker of the North Webster Food Pantry explained summer always depletes resources at the pantries, but with the economy, this summer was a little rougher. With September as Hunger Action Month, Syracuse Food Pantry is asking all churches, businesses and individuals to help be a part of the fight against hunger by collecting one large box of non-perishable and canned foods, merchandise and household supplies for all local food pantries.

North Webster Fire Department continues to investigate a fire at a home on East Wade Lane, North Webster. The fire was reported at 5:20 p.m. Sunday. Jeremy Likens, fire chief, stated the fire originated and was contained to one bedroom at the home, located at 8100 E. Wade Lane.

Fifth-grade students of Lori Jones at North Webster Elementary School had a lesson in visualizing what they read Monday. Called “Creating Mental Images,” Jones read a party scene from the book “Because of Winn-Dixie” by Kate DiCamillo.

20 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 10, 2003

It has been 20 years since North Webster has held a town election. In an effort to get citizens involved in this history making event, the North Webster Democrat candidates will be sponsoring a Voter Registration Drive in September.

Sue’s Creation, North Webster and Syracuse, distributed roses

in recognition of FTD’s Good Neighbor Day Wednesday, Sept.

3. According to co-owner Steve Ward, 5,000 roses were distributed in the two communities due to the support of several sponsors.

North Webster Town Council inducted a hearing of the town’s 2004 budget Wednesday, Sept. 3. Present were council members Kay Andrews, Ken Wagner and Jeff Morgan.

30 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 8, 1993

Lakeland Kiwanis Club met Monday, Sept. 6 in North Webster Church of God. Bob Waugh reported that on Sept. 17, Elaine Rogers’ second grade class at North Webster Elementary School will be taking a nature tour sponsored by his committee.

Mr. and Mrs. Bill Beuoy, North Webster, have just returned home from a trip to Canada and Seward, Moose Pass. and Fairbanks, Alaska.

Guest speaker for Lakeland Kiwanis Club’s Monday morning meeting was Duane Moneyheffer of Nappanee, president of the Hoosier Son Riders. The organization of Christian Bikers has 48,000 members in the U.S. and Canada.

40 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 14, 1983

A burnt-out transformer south of North Webster was the reason behind an 8:15 p.m. adjournment of the town board last Wednesday night. It was ironic that the discussion prior to the power outage was on the shortage of cash needed to meet expenditures for the remainder of the year.

Betty Ellenwood was hostess for the Sept. 7 meeting of Monroe Hilltoppers Club. The event was held at Ellenwood’s Chapman Lake home. Dodie Kreger served as assistant hostess.

Gary Miller, North Webster, has won the 1983 Modified Outboard National Championship, held Aug. 25-28 at the Hydrobowl, Dayton, Ohio. He competed against 330 entries representing all states of the union and Canada.

50 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 12, 1973

The new scrambles layout at

Trojan Motorcycle Speedway in North Webster received favorable comment from fans and riders alike. There were 40 cycles registered in the five classes for a total of 15 events.

The Lakeland Kiwanis Club met Sept. 3 with the invocation by A.C. Underwood. Perfect attendance pins were awarded to Bob Ritchie, four-year pin, and Williard Kaufman, one-year pin. Mrs. Ermal Vanator visited recently with Mr. and Mrs. Ralph McKown, Columbia City, and son Larry, Washington, D.C. Mrs. and Mrs. McKowan are sisters.

It happened in Milford … 40 years ago

Weisser babysitting cousin in Germany

10 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 11, 2013

The announcement came with little fanfare; just a banner on the front of the building announcing Milford Family Physicians has joined IU Health Goshen. The sale of the practice was finalized Sept. 1. Laurie Busby, BSN, MS, vice president for IU Health Goshen Physicians, described Milford Family Physicians as a mature practice with a good reputation with both the community and the hospital. Dr. John Dick started practicing in 1983 and Dr. S. Douglas Strycker came to the practice in 1984. Both have privileges at IU Health Goshen Hospital.

On Friday, Milford Middle School students participated in the annual Camp Mack Challenge. The two-mile run has been a tradition for more than 20 years. Winners for 2013: eighthgrader Joe LeCount for the boys and sixth-grader Katie Haines for the girls.

20 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 10, 2003

Beautiful year-round is the Naoma Beer Memorial Garden at Milford Public Library. The garden was designed by Milford native Doug Hoerr, son Marguerite Hoerr, who presently reside in New Buffalo. Doug is an awardwinning landscape architect based in Evanston, Ill., who was recently recognized by Nina A. Koziol in the Chicago Tribune in an article titled, “Green Streets of Chicago.”

V. L. AND Martha Vawter were surprised last week when they checked their telephone messages and found one from Congressman J. Christopher Chocola, former chief executive officer of ChoreTime Brock, Milford. When they returned the call to his Washington, D.C., office they were put right through to the congressman who had talked to their son, Michael, while on his recent trip to Iraq. Michael Vawter is serving with the 101st Air Assault unit in Iraq.

30 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 8, 1993

Heidi Young, daughter of Link and Flo Young, Milford, is performing at San Antonio’s 200acre Fiesta Texas musical entertainment theme park. She was recruited during Fiesta Texas’ annual Auditions USA Tour, which stops in more than 40 cit-

ies nationwide each October and November. Young graduated in 1988 from Wawasee High School.

Two Milford men are ushering at the Irish football games this season: D.G. “Bud” Seely, who has held this position at Notre Dame since the 1970s; and Steve Weisser, who ushered at his first game Saturday when the Northwestern Wildcats came to South Bend. Former Milford resident, Brian Wilcox, is also working at the stadium.

40 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 14, 1983

Bobi Doll and Jill Wolferman of Bobi’s Shear Success in Milford, attended a very motivating and educational show of creative hair design techniques at the Sheraton Inn, Fort Wayne. The show was sponsored by Pioneer Beauty Supply and Redken Laboratories. The performing artists were Ron Bunting from Dallas, Texas, and Jim Ward from Daytona Beach, Fla. Bobi and Jill learned the newest in men’s and women’s “new looks for the 80s.” Kathy Weisser, a junior this year at Wawasee High School, and the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Weisser of Milford, visited Germany for approximately four weeks this summer. Kathy stated the reason for her trip as babysitting. “They, (her aunt and uncle) run a blind camp in the summer and needed someone to watch their little boy, Benjamin,” Miss Weisser explained.

50 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 12, 1973

Mr. and Mrs. Herman Miller of west of Milford were honored by their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren Sunday afternoon at an open house from 2:30 to 5 p.m. in observance of their 50th wedding anniversary. Herman and Ruth Wise were married on September 4, 1923.

Paul E. Hollar of Milford was among more than 200 farm people who attended a “Hog Farmer’s Forum to Marrie Olde England” last week. The form was sponsored by a Milwaukee magazine.

Dawn Young, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leon Young of Milford, became the first playground victim of the new school year when she fell and was rushed to the doctor’s office yesterday. Nothing was broken and she was soon on her way back to school with nothing more than a bad bruise.

North Webster Community Public Library — Library cards offer access to libraries across the state

The North Webster Community Public Library is a member of Evergreen Indiana, a statewide consortium of libraries that readily share materials.

By signing up for your NWCPL library card, you automatically unlock a realm of library possibilities.

With your North Webster library card, you can check out items from any other Evergreen library in the entire state. Don’t want to make the drive? No problem — just place the item you want on hold and a statewide courier system will deliver it to the North Webster library for you to pick up. To make things even easier, download the Evergreen app which allows you to manage your library account effortlessly. View the items you currently have out, place items on hold and even track your hold items travel progress just like you would an Amazon package.

NWCPL and other Evergreen libraries are in the middle of a courier transition at the moment, so wait times for books may be slightly delayed, but the library is excited about the move and are confident that interlibrary loan wait times will be significantly lower in a week or two.

Want some even better news?

There are many other Evergreen libraries in the area. Syracuse, Milford, Pierceton, Columbia City, Noble County, Fulton County and more are all

members of Evergreen, so your North Webster library card can be used at any of these other area libraries. So why not join this huge network of Indiana libraries by signing up for your North Webster library card today — it is well worth the time and effort.

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

Get Fit While You Sit chair exercise class will be canceled for the week. Join in again at 10:30 a.m. or 4 p.m Thursday, Sept. 28.

Let’s Move Dance Class, 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21. Join in for a fun time of dancing to dance videos, learning new dance steps and getting a great workout. Class is free and suitable for adults of all ages and fitness levels.

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. 18, for video games like MarioKart, Roblox and Minecraft, board games and a delectable array of snacks, drinks and coffee.

Whether you write poetry, short stories or fan fiction, teen writers are invited to Teen Writers’ Corner at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 19. Come share your writings or get inspiration

It happened in Syracuse ... 30 years ago

for your next project. Open to students in grades 6-12. Youth Events Preschool Story Time is starting back up for the school year. The kickoff sessions will be held at both 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 20. Join Mrs. Pam to sing songs, read books, share fingerplays and learn through fun literacy activities and crafts. This program is geared toward children ages 3-6, but all family members are invited. Registration is re-

quested, but visitors are always welcome. Family Movie Time, 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21. Come watch “Trolls: World Tour” on the big screen at the library. This movie is rated G and lasts 91 minutes. Bring your own drink, but free snacks will be provided. For more information about any library events, call (574) 834-7122, visit the library’s website at nwcpl.org or click into the library’s Facebook page.

Strieby family cabin has impressive history

10 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 11, 2013

Purdue University awarded about 7,100 degrees to students following the spring semester. Local students earning degrees include: Syracuse — Ashley Delucenay, Benjamin Herdrich, Krystalle Johnson, Stephanie Long, Kylee Ort, Alexis Seniff, and Kelsey Smith. Here is some important information from Traci Helton, executive director of The Syracuse Food Pantry, about the September Hunger Action Month. She explained, “Our local pantry serves about 140 families and 400 clients each month. Unfortunately, the number of clients is increasing as the year has gone on. Over the spring and summer, donations were down significantly and the pantry needs your help to get the word out so they can be ready to meet the needs as we head into fall. Any donations are appreciated. If people prefer to give a monetary donation, their donation goes further. The pantry buys its supplies locally at the wholesale price.” Help out those in need right in our community.

20 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 10, 2003

Local BMX pro racer Brian Strie-

by, CR 500E, Syracuse, returned last week from the Downhill BMX competition of X-Games held in Los Angeles, Calif. He said he finished 20th, having become a victim of the first corner, and thus failed to qualify for the semi-main event. ProBMX riding is a family affair for the Striebys, children of Ron and Liz.

Brian’s brother, Adam, was able to watch Brian compete as he was in California doing a stunt show during half-time for the San Francisco 49ers. While in Los Angeles, Brian watched other X-Games, such as the Half-Pipe Vert Skateboarding competition where he saw professionals whose names he recognized, such as Tony Hawk.

Forest “Bud” and Mary Lou Smith, Cherokee Road, Syracuse, were both surprised Saturday with a birthday party for Bud at the Millersburg home of his son and daughter-in-law, Mike and Pam Smith. Bud’s birthday is not until Oct. 7, when he will be 80 years old. The party turned out to be a wonderful family reunion, with 64 people present.

30 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 8, 1993

Russ and Pat Mikel and children Lisa, Ryan, Rustin and Rhett, are

currently renting the Betty Scott home in Woodland Acres, Syracuse, while they await the completion of their new home on CR 375E. The new home is being built on the Mikels’ 24 acres of land purchased from Pat’s parents, Cap and Maryann Beer. The home is expected to be completed the latter part of the year. While there are numerous older homes in the area, none have quite the history of the log cabin on CR 500E near Quaker Haven Road, Syracuse. This log cabin, according to information from the Indiana Historical Site, is the only log cabin in the state that was both built by a family and has been occupied by descendants of that family since then.

The Ronald L. Strieby family currently resides in the home, which is registered with the Indiana Historical Society in the name of Strieby’s eldest son, Nathan.

40 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 14, 1983

Dana Corporation, Syracuse, recently donated a large quantity of machinery and equipment to Wawasee High School for use in its machine trades, auto mechanics and building trade classes. Other items donated to the school in-

Recovery Café coming to Kosciusko County

L.I.T.E. Recovery Café is deepening northern Indiana’s recovery support by starting a Recovery Café to serve those struggling with substance use, mental health challenges, trauma and homelessness.

Recovery support services are crucial to sustaining wellbeing beyond treatment and supportive housing and are critical in the lifelong journey of developing one’s full potential. L.I.T.E. — Living

In Transition Effectively — is the host agency for the new L.I.T.E. Recovery Café. This project has been made possible through DMHA’s provision of seed funding and will be operated by We Bloom.

The L.I.T.E. Recovery Café opening reception will be held from 1-3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22, at 210 W. Catherine St., Milford. The program begins at 1 p.m.

“The collective impact of this growing network of healing communities will over time transform thousands of lives, not just those that come through the doors of these new Recovery Cafés, but also their friends and family members,” stated David Uhl, the Recovery Café network director.

Doug Huntsinger, director of drug prevention and treatment, from the governor’s office; Jay Chaudhary, director of the Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction; Heather Rodriguez, the director of the Indiana Recovery Network, will be honored guests.

Local leaders will also be speaking and the program will conclude with a ribbon cutting ceremony by the Syracuse-Wawasee Cham-

ber of Commerce. Tours of the café will take place following the ceremony; light refreshments will be provided.

L.I.T.E. Recovery Café core team members have participated in extensive training sessions with We Bloom and have traveled around the state visiting other cafes. Through the trainings, both virtual and in person, they’ve learned more deeply about the philosophy behind the model and the basics of the café’s recovery support services.

The Recovery Café model is a peer-based recovery community, characterized by connection and rooted in the empowerment of individuals in recovery to move from surviving to thriving.

It is membership-based and asks individuals to 1) be drug/alcohol free for 24 hours; 2) attend a weekly recovery circle; and 3) be a contributing member of the café through volunteering. The model’s power is generated by its holistic and inclusive approach to recovery, with an emphasis on connection to self, others, identities and resources. The Recovery Café Model offers five core services/programs:

• Healthy meals/drinks (based on when and what is most needed in the community)

• Weekly recovery circles (groups made up of eight-10 members, led by a peer recovery coach)

• The School for Recovery (course offerings will be guided by member needs/desires and taught by peers and community members)

• Peer recovery coaching (focus-

ing on wellness recovery action plans; emphasis on the social determinants of health)

• Information hub for wraparound programs/services (based on the social determinants of health)

L.I.T.E. Recovery Café is now an emerging member of the Recovery Café Network. Over the next two years, they will receive mentorship, materials, expertise and facilitated learning experiences with other groups in their cohort. The Recovery Cafe Network helps them build a foundation of long-term recovery support and change the conversation around substance use, trauma, other mental health challenges and homelessness.

cluded a lathe and equipment, an arbor press, an assortment of cans, storage bins and student and storage lockers. Amongst the attendees were Bill Little, Lakeland Community School Board president; Richard Rice, Dana plant manager; Dr. Howard Hull, Wawasee principal; Don Arnold, Lakeland Community Schools superintendent; and Bill Sanders, Dana personnel manager. The lesson in entrepreneurship that Beth Walker, Syracuse, has given us has brought her dad and mother into her embryonic operation. She started Beth’s T-Shirts Unlimited in her parents’ home as part of the high school’s DECA program under Jerry Minton. It grew, relocated in the Village, and has been recently added onto. Her dad, Stu Walker, opened an adjoining business, Video Sports, which was recently expanded with a 1,100 square foot addition, including a cafe facility to serve the young folks pizzas, sandwiches, subs and soft drinks. Beth is a Ball State University sophomore, studying retail management, while dad Stu holds down Video Sports and mother Diana holds down the T-shirt part of the business during school months.

50 YEARS AGO, SEPT. 12, 1973

A sequel to the Mary Kimble, Syracuse, story, about her having a reaction to a smallpox shot is this: She told this column the trip she and Johnnie are making to Venezuela later this month is for only six days, but the reaction from the smallpox shot put her in bed for nine days, three days longer than her vacation!

David B. Strieby, son of Mrs. Cleo Strieby, Syracuse, recently accepted a position with Burroughs Corporation in Indianapolis. Mr. Strieby is representing Burroughs as a named accounts representative for Burrough’s computer and data processing equipment. Mr. Strieby recieved his master of business administration degree from Indiana University at Bloomington this past June. He received his BS degree from Indiana University in business in 1972.

Myaamiaki stories overflow at WACF

Attendance was standing room only Saturday where two members of the Miami tribe of Oklahoma shared stories about the culture and food at the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation Ruddell Pavilion.

“We knew there is significant interest in local history and Native Americans,” cited Mark Knecht, one of the Chautauqua organizers of the event. “But the attendance exceeded our expectations by far with people coming from Fort Wayne, Warsaw, Indianapolis, Goshen and North Manchester.”

Diane Hunter, the Myaamia heritage preservation specialist for the Miami tribe of Oklahoma and a citizen of the tribe, spoke about the history of Miami people, telling the stories of their emergence as a unique and different people, their first encounters with Europeans and later with Americans, land loss and forced removals and about the revitalization of the Miami tribe today.

Beth Beams, an organizer of the event, said, “For those of us who were privileged to witness this event, hearing from skilled, dedicated and vibrant Miami speakers about an ancient culture that has thrived for millennia in a spirit of relative peace and sustainability, has deepened our understanding and respect for the lives that came before us on this land. Today’s audience was made aware that the Miami people are not mere vestiges of bye-gone days but continue to thrive. The Myaamia have acquired new acres of land nearby and are remembering the almost-lost native language, songs, winter stories

and arts. Their youth are being educated at university as well as in the company of Myaamia elders, embraced by the land, the animals and the plants that have supported their people for so long.”

Dani Tippmann, also a citizen of the Miami tribe of Oklahoma, serves as the community food program director for the tribe. She discussed the use of plants as food, medicine, technology and cultural historical conduits and shared how plants teach us, feed us, heal us and bring us a better understanding of Myaamia culture. Tippmann brought plants to show and share.

Another event organizer, John Beams, reflected on Tippmann’s presentation. “Seeing in action today Dani’s love and connection to the living things that bring community, sustenance, food and shelter to the people,” he said, “gives us hope for a future of renewal, not just for the Myaamia people, but for the rest of us who in so many ways have become lost from the world; separated from the spirit of the land that supports us.”

The program, sponsored by Chautauqua-Wawasee, was held at the Ruddell Pavilion on the campus of Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation. The program was free of charge. Partial program funding was provided a Heritage Support Grant from the Indiana Historical Society made possible by Lilly Endowment, Inc.

Tippman will return to Syracuse at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4, at the Syracuse Community Center. She will collaborate with John Edgerton and Cliff Kindy, area permaculture farmers, leading the audience to explore this question: “You say you love nature. How do you know if nature loves you back?”

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED INCREASE IN WATER SERVICE RATES AND CHARGES FOR THE TOWN OF SYRACUSE, INDIANA

Property owners and other interested parties in the Town of Syracuse, Indiana (the “Town”), are hereby notified that a Rate Ordinance, increasing the rates and charges for water services was introduced at a meeting of the Town Council of the Town (the “Council”) on August 15, 2023. A public hearing of the Council will be held at 7:15 p.m., local time, on September 19, 2023, at Town Hall, 310 North Huntington Street, Syracuse, Indiana, on the matter of the rates and charges. Immediately following the public hearing the Council will convene and may consider the adoption of said ordinance. The Rate Ordinance provides for an increase in rates and charges as set forth in Exhibit A. At such public hearing and prior to final adoption of the Rate Ordinance, all interested parties may appear and be heard. In the event of adoption of the Rate Ordinance, the users of the water service located outside the corporate limits of the Town may be entitled to petition the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission under IC 8-1.5-3-8.3 to review and adjust the rates and charges imposed on the users if a petition under IC 8-1.5-3-8.2 or under IC 36-9-23-26.1 is filed. The complete text of proposed Rate Ordinance is on file and available for examination and copying at the office of the Clerk-Treasurer located at Town Hall, 310 North Huntington Street, Syracuse, Indiana, during regular business hours, and will be available at the public hearing.

Dated August 31, 2023. TOWN OF SYRACUSE, INDIANA hspaxlp

Titles announced for 2023-2025

Indiana statewide read program

Indiana Humanities and Indiana Center for the Book announced their selections for the 2023-2025 One State/One Story statewide reading program.

“All That She Carried: The Journey of Ashley’s Sack, a Black Family Keepsake” by Tiya Miles is the high school/adult selection, and “Freedom Over Me: Eleven Slaves, Their Lives and Dreams Brought to Life” by Ashley Bryan is the children’s selection. This will be the first cycle to feature two titles.

One State/One Story is a program of Indiana Humanities and this year is part of the organization’s Advancing Racial Equity programming, which supports discussions of history and memory and how engaging with the past can help Hoosiers understand contemporary injustices and strive for racial equity.

“All That She Carried” won the National Book Award for nonfiction in 2021 — along with many other awards — and is the account of how a cloth sack found at an outdoor flea market in 2007 was revealed to be an 1850’s artifact of both love and enslavement. Miles traces the sack itself and the three women connected to the sack’s history in this reflection on American history. Ashley’s sack, and the

Church

historical work that Miles does, is an example of how the humanities can help others imagine more just futures.

“Freedom Over Me” by Ashley Bryan is an award-winning picture book that grew from an appraisement of property that includes the names and prices of a community of enslaved people. From that document, Bryan infuses life into each individual by pairing poetry and artwork contrasting the list price of a person with the priceless value of life experiences and dreams. The language and artwork will resonate with young children, while the themes and topics will draw older readers into discussions centered around the humanity of all people who have come to live on this land.

“The humanities give us an opportunity to connect with our neighbors about topics like the legacies of slavery and the importance of collecting, researching and learning our shared history,” said Megan Telligman, director of programs at Indiana Humanities. “As with every One State/One Story, our goal is to cultivate discussions that can create more resilient communities and bring Hoosiers together.”

Accompanying One State/ One Story is the Community

White washed tombs—

Around The Lakes

Read program, which offers grants of $750, copies of the book and promotional swag to organizations that have signed up to host a series of three or more programs that explore the themes and ideas of the book selections. Applications are currently being accepted and you can learn more on Indiana Humanities’ website at indianahumanities.org/program/onestate-one-story.

Previous One State/One Story selections include “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley, “The Year We Left Home” by Jean Thompson and “World of Wonders” by Aimee Nezhukumatathil.

As with past statewide reads, there are many ways to get involved with One State/One Story: Read a blog post about why “All That She Carried” and “Freedom Over Me” were chosen

Apply to host a Community Read

Check out the books for your book club through the Novel Conversations statewide lending library

Attend a talk arranged through the Advancing Racial Equity Speakers Bureau

To learn more, visit indianahumanities.org and in.gov/library/icb.

Where do we find ourselves today?

Sadly, this is exactly where Israel found itself at the time of Jesus. They were busy with religious practice but did not know God. They knew who He was but they didn’t know Him. Can we excuse ourselves from being exactly this? They began awesomely, with God leading them through the wilderness, performing miracle after miracle. Yet, they decided they knew better than the God who had led them. They cried out to Samuel, “Look,” they told him, “You are now old, and your sons are not like you. Give us a king to judge us like all the other nations have.”

Did you catch that? “Like all the other nations.” Haven’t we, the church, done the same thing? Give us leaders who will make us like the world. We have received our gift, we are there.

Forget God, just do the next program. Forget God, we know better than He does. Let’s preach the philosophy of the world that will draw people to our congregations. Really, how’s that working for us? Dwindling numbers, angry parishioners, our society laughing at us. Well, if you’re filled with dead men’s bones, what do you expect?

We continue to do the same things over and over again and get the same results. Isn’t this the definition of insanity? We call upon the idols of this world and get no answers and the church slowly fails. We have empty buildings, and dying congregations, and continue to go down the same path. We are fools to believe we can build God’s church without Him leading and guiding us. It’s like jumping in a commercial airliner, pushing the pilot out of the plane and telling everyone, “we have this under control.” No, we don’t.

I can no more run a church without God than I can ride in a plane without a pilot. We, the church, are attempting the impossible in our power. Jesus may be looking at the church today as “white washed tombs.” We are filled with dead men’s bones. No flesh, no spirit, no hope! But there is hope, we can see the church revived.

Calvary UMC to host church reunion

Calvary United Methodist Church, 801 S. Huntington St., Syracuse, is hosting a church reunion 10 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 17. The reunion will serve as a time to renew old friendships, worship, fellowship, and praise.

Barb Bartles will perform bells and chimes on the organ before, during and after worship. The Northmen & Cathy will be performing during worship and delivering testimonies. The group has been together

for over 34 years, traveled to 40 states and six foreign countries. The group has had 12 top 40 Gospel music singles and two top 20 songs in the national Singing News charts. The church will provide chicken noodles, mashed potatoes, ham, cake and ice cream, drinks and tableware. The church asks side dishes be contributed.

To RSVP, contact Rebecca Scott at (574) 457-3778. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Wednesday.

North Webster church to host fish fry

The North Webster Church of the Brethren, 7281 E. CR 600N, North Webster is hosting a fish fry 4-6:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16. The fish fry plate will cost $15 and will come with five big pieces of fresh, hand-breaded Alaskan polluck, coleslaw, baked beans and pie. Any questions can be directed to the church at (574) 834-7000.

Milford Brethren Church to host community dinner

The Milford First Brethren Church, 110 W. Catherine St., Milford, is hosting a community dinner 5-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27. The dinner will consist of Pizza Hut pizza, salad and dessert. There is no RSVP necessary, but questions can be directed to the church at (574) 658-3141.

NORTH WEBSTER Elementary School is getting all new windows inside and outside its building. The process started last week and will take four weeks to complete. The work is being done by Architectural Glass and Aluminum, Columbia City. Shown above is Matthew Kurtz putting in some new windows in the classroom.

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THE ANNUAL fall cleanup in Milford will take place Sept. 21-23. As always, all items must be taken to the utilities building at 600 N. Main St., Milford. Street department employees will be there to help you unload your items and metal recycling. The hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 8-11:30 a.m. Saturday.

Remember, they do not take TVs, computers, electronic equipment, tires on rims, anything with Freon, paints that are not dry and hard, oils and solvents or hazardous waste. The cleanup is for residents within the Milford town limits only. If you have questions, contact Utilities Superintendent Steven Marquart at (574) 658-4519.

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THE NORTH Webster Community Center’s annual “Haunted Halls” will return from 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28. They are looking for business and community members to help decorate a spot at the center and hand out candy to the kids. If you are interested, contact NWCC at (574) 8341600.

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“THIS IS Syracuse” is offering several classes 7-8 p.m. Oct. 4, 11 and 18, at Calvary Methodist Church, 801 S. Huntington St. The classes offered are beginning acoustic guitar; euchre for beginners or experienced players; language and speech development for children; pour painting; and working with challenging behaviors in children.

Register for a class by registering your name, contact information and choice of class by direct messaging This is Syracuse on Facebook, sending an email to thisissyracuse2023@gmail. com or leaving a message at (574) 457-3778.

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THE CROMWELL-KIMMELL Lions Club will have their annual pancake and sausage breakfast 8-10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23, at the Noble County Library, located west of Cromwell. This date coincides with Cromwell Days. The breakfast will offer pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. The library has an elevator available for those unable to use the stairway.

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IF YOU or your family would like to share your story explaining your history relative to Webster Lake, submit your article by e-mail to WebsterLakeAssociation@gmail.com, or use the “Contact Us” tab on the WLCA website at lakewebster.net. Photos may be included as well. This series will be continued over the next few years.

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ROSE GARDEN Recovery Center will host a “Ready for Bed” party at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 28, thrown by local supporter Donna Josellis. The event will be held at Brooke Point Inn, 4906 E 1200N, Syracuse. Splurge on products with 40% of the total sales donated to the Rose Garden. There will also be free massages offered by licensed chiropractor. RSVP by contacting Josellis at (847) 923-1065.

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THE NORTH Webster American Legion will have a live band from 7:30-10:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 15. The HWY 30 Band will be at the Legion to help celebrate the September birthdays. There will be cake, too, said Commander Cat Bowers.

IF YOU happened to be watching channel 22 on Monday morning, you might have seen a couple of familiar faces. Karena Wilkinson and Sierra Clark-Kern were featured on the morning show promoting this week’s Food Truck Friday event.

The theme of the September iteration will be “Viva la Fiesta,” and will include a Mexican folklore dance tribe, according to Wilkinson. There will be a variety of activities for kids and, of course, a variety of food vendors ready to help fill your tummy! The event will run from 5-8 p.m. in downtown Milford.

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SEVERAL SYRACUSE homes will be featured in the Builders Association of North Central Indiana’s annual Homes on Parade which will run 4-8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22; Noon to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23; and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24.

Tickets can be purchased at each home and at Martin’s Super Market locations in Warsaw and Plymouth. For more information visit buildnci.com.

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STEVE HANFORD of Lions Karate in North Webster has some things to brag about. Last Saturday, a karate tournament was held at the Huntington YMCA. Lions Karate had 32 students represented and all the students performed great, Hanford reported.

Lions Karate students Emalyn Kroeker and Denyel Bond earned grand champion in their divisions, Kroeker winning teen forms and Bond winning the women’s black belt forms. There were more than 100 competitors attending from across Indiana, plus competitors from Michigan and Ohio.

“On Sunday, we welcomed two 13- and 16-yearolds, who earned black belts, into our group,” said Hanford. “Randi Colbert and Aidan Bartman earned their black belts. They both have trained for five and six years respectively.”

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HAVE YOU noticed the trucks that are filling the parking lot of the former Harvest with a Heart building across from Lake City Bank in Milford? We’ve been trying to figure out what is going on there, but so far we haven’t found anyone who has answers. We’ll keep digging and let you know if we learn anything. If you have the answer, send a message to kknepp@the-papers.com. —o—

LAKELAND YOUTH Center will host a “Mom and Son Adventure” from 3-7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23, at Quaker Haven. The cost is $40 for moms while sons are free. Enjoy a gigantic jump pad, rock climbing, trails and more from 3-5 p.m. with a taco bar from 5-6 p.m. followed by a campfire from 6-7 p.m. Register at lakelandyouthin.myrec.com.

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THE ANNUAL membership meeting of the Webster Lake Conservation Association was held Saturday, Aug. 12. Five of the 15 board directorship terms were expiring. The election to fill these positions was the primary item of business.

Ben Guy, Tom Jones, Jr. and Steve Kemp were each re-elected to three-year terms, and Jill Colwell was elected to her first, three-year term as a director. The fifth directorship remains open and may be filled by appointment at a later date. The association set the 2024 fireworks dates for July 6, with a rain date of July 13, according to its fall newsletter.

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YOU MIGHT have noticed some new paint work on the streets of Milford. The guys and gal from the Milford Street Department have been busy updating the pavement signage throughout town to help with driver safety, especially around the railroad tracks. Pictured are Angela Heltzel and Rob Brooks putting down the refreshed warning paint on Emeline Street.