the Paper - August 5, 2026 by The Papers Inc.

Wheels on Fire prepares for 10th Smash Out Cancer fundraiser

By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer

Ten years ago, Beaver Dam Community Church’s Wheels on Fire Cancer Crusaders held its first-ever Smash Out Cancer fundraiser in Akron

As it marks a milestone with the event this year, the nonprofit wishes to keep the focus on the people it helps, those impacted by cancer in the Kosciusko County and Fulton County area, said Wheels on Fire Chairwoman Christina Morehouse

Smash Out Cancer occurs this year 4-9 p m Saturday, Aug 15, at the Akron Community Center, 815 Rural St Entertainment starts at 4:30 p m , with a live auction at 6:30 p m , the pie auction after that and the candle lighting ceremony ending the event The latter is to honor those who are battling cancer or who’ve passed away from it

Food will also be available for purchase Morehouse said Mark Vice will perform again this year

Years before Wheels on Fire held its first Smash Out Cancer in 2016, the group participated in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life fundraiser However after deciding they would prefer to direct funds to local cancer patients, the members started raising money on their own

Aside from Smash Out Cancer, which was only missed in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Wheels has obtained money over the years through the Fulton County Gun Club’s Clays for Cancer event, individual donations from the public and serving food at multiple events

Places it’s provided food this year include the Mentone Egg Festival, Freedom Fest at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds and the Echoes of the Past antique farm machinery club’s SummerFest in Claypool

Wheels on Fire should also serve food at the Autumn in Akron Charity Car, Truck and Bike Show in September and Echoes of the Past’s Fall Festival in Claypool in October as well as host its own pancake breakfast at the Mentone Fire Station in September

If people are unable to make it to Smash Out Cancer or the other events, they may donate to Wheels on Fire through secure myvanco com/L-ZMVJ/ campaign/C-1508Z

Morehouse said volunteers for Wheels on Fire are also welcomed, with there being 22 currently part of the group

People should call the church at (574) 893-7052 or email Morehouse at morehouse6966@gmail com to learn how to volunteer

Wheels on Fire presents checks from its fundraising at the end of the year to both the Kosciusko and Fulton County cancer care funds and Joe’s Hope Foundation, which help cancer patients with bills during their treatments It also gives to Cancer Services

IN HONOR — At a previous year’s Wheels on Fire’s Smash Out Cancer event, candles were lit in honor of those

of Northeast Indiana, which provides resources and more to those with the disease

Morehouse said the group is considering also giving to Faith in the Fight for Fulton County, which organizes benefits for those with cancer

Over the years, Wheels on Fire has raised around $500,000 for cancer patients, with more than $100,000 of that coming from Smash Out Cancer alone

Morehouse said those monies help those battling cancer “know they are not in this fight alone ”

“It is amazing to think that the community has been supporting Smash Out for 10 years,” she said “We appreciate the continued generosity of the people in the community ”

Overall, she added that “the spotlight needs to stay on those who we are there to help ”

PERFORMING — Debra Collier’s School of Dance of Warsaw performs at Wheels on Fire’s Smash Out Cancer event in a previous year.

SERVING FOOD Chuck Drudge cooks hamburgers for Wheels on Fire at the 2024 Mentone Egg Festival. Photo by Phoebe Muthart.

WHEELS ON FIRE Beaver Dam Community Church’s Wheels on Fire-Cancer Crusaders members are shown at Freedom Fest at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds earlier this summer where they sold food to raise money for cancer patients. In the front from left are Ruby

Bowers, Linda Heighway, Linda McConnell and Diana Powell. In the back are Lisa Tucker, Tonia Morris-Hanna, Karen Francis, Christina Morehouse, Dave Morehouse and Mike Clouser. Photos provided by Wheels on Fire.

K now Y our n eighbor

Scott embraces life’s unexpected turns

By ABBY OLIVER Staff Writer

From California to Indiana, Kelli Scott’s journey to becoming a dental hygienist has taken her through unexpected turns, each shaping her life today.

Born in California, Scott moved to Oregon in middle school. Unsure about attending college, Scott’s mom recommended looking into dentistry, so she attended an overnight dental program.

“I went and did that, and I fell in love with dentistry,” Scott said. She attended Oregon Institute of Technology to complete dental hygiene prerequisites.

Ultimately, Scott learned she wasn’t ready for that kind of schooling. She completed 10 months of dental assistant school instead and became an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant.

“I really needed that at that time,” she said.

As an EFDA, Scott began her first job in pediatrics, where she worked one-on-one with a child patient in a hospital each month for several hours. Scott grew to love patient work and remained convinced she wanted to be a dental hygienist.

Today, that one-on-one patient time continues with her patients at East Center Dental. One of her older patients shares stories about Warsaw and what it used to be like. Scott loves listening to her.

“Everybody has a story,” she said. “Just when you think you’ve got somebody figured out, it’s something way different ... and you realize that everybody’s going through the same things.”

While working as a dental assistant, she met her husband, Todd Scott.

After a brief interlude as a nail technician, Kelli Scott and her

husband adopted their son, Noah, and became pregnant with their daughter, Cora.

With her husband’s support, Kelli Scott continued dental hygiene schooling while raising her children.

She began taking night classes, continuing even after Todd Scott was laid off. They moved into Kelli Scott’s parents’ house until Todd Scott found a new job in Ohio.

The hard work, sacrifice and support paid off when Kelli Scott was accepted into a dental hygiene program, but then the real work began. The program was a bachelor’s degree condensed into an associate degree.

It was one of the hardest things she’s ever done.

“It was exhausting,” Scott said. “I wouldn’t do it again, not with babies.”

She graduated in 2014, ready to fulfill her passion as a dental hygienist.

The family moved to Pennsylvania. Kelli Scott got her license and began working while Todd Scott started a new job. Her parents eventually moved next door, and everything was going well: parents close by, kids happy, jobs going well.

Then the COVID pandemic happened. Kelli Scott returned to work after a month, while Todd Scott was out of work for six months. They decided to move wherever he could find a job, knowing she could work anywhere as a dental hygienist.

The family moved once again, this time to Warsaw. Now, Todd Scott has a job he loves working at Fort Wayne Metals, and Kelli Scott has settled in at East Center Dental.

“It’s been a journey,” Kelli Scott said. “I always thought I’d just be in one place ... a lot of people

Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.

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around here are.”

As her kids approach adulthood and begin moving away from home, Kelli Scott looks forward to experiencing more of the United States with her husband.

“There’s so much to see in the United States,” Scott said. “Once Cora’s done with school, it’ll be our turn; our next adventure.”

After a difficult year that included Todd Scott’s health challenges, including triple bypass surgery and gallbladder problems, and the loss of his father, Kelli Scott is especially looking forward to those adventures and “visiting family,

having barbecues and laughing with other family members.”

While she prizes her experience as a mother, she is looking forward to finding what she enjoys once again.

“You lose a lot of who you are as a mother,” Kelli Scott said. “I’m just starting that next phase of, ‘What do I want? What makes me happy?’”

She has spent more time reading, going outside and cross-stitching, hobbies she can enjoy once again.

“(I want to do) something that’s going to improve myself,” Kelli Scott said.

One of her bucket list items looms on the horizon: one day learning to play the drums.

“I can picture myself as an old lady, playing the drums,” Kelli Scott said. “I think there’ll be a day when I’ll take some drum lessons and be that old lady jamming on some drums.”

For Kelli Scott, the unexpected turns have become part of the adventure.

“Just when you think you have a set plan ... there’s another adventure waiting right around the corner,” Kelli Scott said.

Area lakes among LARE recipients

Five lake, river and stream projects in Kosciusko County are among the 21 projects and 18 counties receiving grants to fund treatment projects through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Lake and River Enhancement program.

A total of $1,297,500 in grants were awarded by the DNR and Gov. Mike Braun Wednesday, July 29.

Local biological and engineering projects grants include:

Tributary to Lake Wawasee, an engineering feasibility study, $15,000.

Deeds Creek, engineering design, $48,000.

Peterson Ditch, stream bank stabilization, $100,000.

Funk Ditch, stream restoration, $46,000.

Crooked Creek, stream restoration, $55,000.

Also receiving a grant for stream restoration on Baugo Creek in Elkhart County, $147,000.

“Indiana’s lakes and streams are vital natural resources, supporting strong communities, wildlife habitat, and recreation,” said Braun. “Thanks to support from those getting out and enjoying Indiana’s scenic waterways, we’re proud to make sure that our Hoosier lakes and streams are well maintained for continued enjoyment now and for future generations.”

Other counties receiving grants are: Adams, Allen, Bartholomew, Cass, Delaware, Fayette, Fountain,

Jay, Jefferson, Marion, Porter, Steuben, Sullivan, Vermillion and Wells.

The grants are funded through the LARE fee paid annually by boat owners when they register their crafts with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles and benefits boaters all over the state. The grants allow for the completion of projects that would be difficult for local organizations to fund on their own. Grants are awarded on a competitive basis, and local sponsors share at least 20% of the cost.

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This round of grant-funded projects will benefit four lakes and 15 rivers and streams, with some projects benefiting more than one lake. In addition, two land-based projects associated with watershed land treatment practices have been funded in coordination with local Soil and Water Conservation Districts.

Many of the projects aim to improve water quality by reducing sediment and nutrient inputs. Improved water quality helps fish and wildlife populations and improves recreational opportunities.

A complete list of projects, listed by body of water, county, project type and grant award, can be found at lare.dnr.IN.gov.

THE FAMILY From left are Kelli Scott; her son, Noah Scott; her daughter, Cora Scott; and her husband, Todd Scott. Photo provided by Kelli Scott.

Warsaw sorority members attend national Delta Theta Tau convention

The 118th National Convention of Delta Theta Tau Sorority Inc. was held July 8-12 at Marriott Newport News City Center in Newport News, Va. Attending from the Beta Zeta Chapter, Warsaw, were Marcia Randolph and Jean Whitenack.

National President Kris Trapp, Tau Chapter, Valparaiso, presided at the business meetings during the convention with 69 chapters represented, according to a news release provided by the Beta Zeta Chapter. Trapp chose as her theme for her year at the helm of the organization “Kindness Ignites - Light Inspires.” Social activities enjoyed by members at the “Red, White and Blue with a Dab of Green”-themed convention included “Red-y, Set, Picnic Mixer,” “Operation White Rose Informal” and “Rhapsody in Blue Banquet.” Terry Riester, past national president, Lambda Nu, Mooresville, served as convention coordinator.

A combined total from all chapters donated to philanthropic

projects during the past year amounted to $805,680.52. The members supported their communities with a total of 98,825.79 volunteer hours during the past year. Awards were given to chapters with the highest total amount of money spent on philanthropy and for the chapters with the most volunteer hours. Receiving the award for the highest amount of philanthropy dollars donated was Lambda Eta, Franklin, Ind., and receiving the award for most volunteer hours was Omicron Alpha, Woodlawn, Ill. Of philanthropy interest to members is the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias and the encouraging professionals in the area of counseling.

Delta Theta Tau’s Education Grant program enables students to continue their studies in the graduate field of counseling. The Philanthropy Committee granted $20,000 to National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias. The delegation allotted $10,000 for educational grants to be used in the

year 2026-2027. Delegates voted to give $8,000 to the National Yearly Project with $4,000 going to The Coffin-Lowry Syndrome submitted by Omicron Alpha, Woodlawn, Ill., and $4,000 going to The Chromosome 18 Registry and Research Society submitted by Pi Delta, Moberly, Mo.

Delegates elected Junior Cruea of Kappa Xi Chapter, Brookville, Ohio, to serve as 2026-2027 national president.

Delta Theta Tau, a national philanthropic sorority, was founded in 1903 in Muncie, Ind., by five high school girls. The first national convention was held in 1908 in Elwood, Ind. The 119th convention will be held July 1418, 2027, at Hyatt Regency Tulsa Downtown, Tulsa, Okla. Jeri Elliott, past national president, Xi Epsilon Chapter, Yakima, Wash., is the 2027 convention coordinator.

For more information about Delta Theta Tau Sorority, visit the organization’s website at deltathetatau.org.

Saemann Foundation grants

$50,000 to Warsaw library

The Franklin I. and Irene List Saemann Foundation recently presented a $50,000 check to the Warsaw Community Public Library Capital Improvement Fund, a component fund of the Kosciusko County Community Foundation.

Established by Friends of the Library, the Warsaw Community Public Library Capital Improvement Fund was created to provide support to the Warsaw Community Public Library for capital improvements including but not limited to equipment repair or purchase and facility renovations or improvements.

The Franklin I. and Irene List Saemann Foundation was created by the Saemanns to benefit cul-

ture, education and health care. In addition, the Saemann Foundation regularly makes grants that support libraries, volunteer programs, hospitals, colleges and other organizations.

CHAPTER RECOGNIZED Warsaw’s Beta Zeta Chapter of Delta Theta Tau was recognized for its outstanding service of volunteer hours to its community at the recent national convention. Pictured are Beta Zeta members Jean Whitenack, left, and Marcia Randolph. Photo provided by Beta Zeta Chapter of Delta Theta Tau Sorority.

August events at Timbercrest

Timbercrest Senior Living Community, 2201 East St., North Manchester, will be hosting several events throughout the month of August. Each event is open to anyone in the surrounding community who would like to join.

The Parkinson’s Support Group will meet at 3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, in the resident activity room, and the Dementia Learning Group will meet at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 17, in the Timbercrest Nook. These groups provide a space to share experiences and support one another for those Parkinson’s and dementia may affect.

HTS Therapy & Wellness will present a health talk about the im-

portance of hydration, how it affects the body, common signs and causes of dehydration and tips on how to prevent dehydration year-round. The talk will take place at 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, in the Timbercrest Assembly Room.

The next installment of the Patio Series will feature Scotty Rocker, who will perform classic hits, bringing the best of oldies, country and more. The music will start at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 18, in the Timbercrest Courtyard. In the case of inclement weather, the event will move to the Timbercrest Assembly Room.

For more information about Timbercrest, visit timbercrest.org.

HELP FOR LIBRARY Pictured in front from left are Stephanie Overbey, Kosciusko County Community Foundation, Bob List, Saemann Foundation, and Renee Sweeny, Andrea Granger and Jill Beehler, all of Warsaw Community Public Library; in the middle are Barbara Beck, Susie Deaton, Jenn Hicks and Cathi Zdenek, all of the library; and in back are Jim Price and Ben Rice, both of the library. Photo provided by Kosciusko County Community Foundation.

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Good Neighbors is a column in which readers share friendly advice. To ask or answer questions, write the ‘the PAPER’, Good Neighbors, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542; fax 800-886-3796; or e-mail abias@the-papers.com. Please no phone calls.

Editor’s Note: The Good Neighbors column is for people looking for hard-to-find or old items or for people seeking advice, not for items you can find in a local store or sell through the help of a classified ad.

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Canning jars

Good neighbors: Quart and pint canning jars available. If interested, call (574) 377-0768.

New questions

National Geographic — Free: National

Geographic magazines, including 12 issues from 1962, 12 issues from 1974, 11 issues from 2009, and more. Also available are Reader’s Digest Condensed Books. Free to anyone interested. Call (574) 2481975.

Swing set — Wanted: A used swing set with plenty of life left. Prefer one close to Etna Green. Leave a message at (574) 646-2249.

Deadfall removal — Is there a person or group willing to clear deadfall from the Tippecanoe River behind our home? Several large trees have fallen recently and are completely blocking boats from traveling on the river. I used to do it myself but am now too old. Call (574) 269-1246.

Open class fashion show winners announced

Fourteen local seamstresses participated in the Open Class Department Fashion Show at the Elkhart County 4-H Fair.

Judging took place Thursday, July 16, with the Open House

Fashion Show held Thursday, July 23, at the Elkhart County Community Center on the Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds, Goshen.

Local first-place winners by category were:

• Aprons: Linda Moudy, Nappanee.

• Sewing for others (infant to age 5): Donna Hibschman, Syracuse, with model Kirsten.

• Sewing for others (ages 6-12): Hibschman, with model Ember.

Applications being accepted for next Kosciusko Leadership Academy class

Individuals looking to strengthen their leadership skills, expand their professional network and make a lasting impact in Kosciusko County are encouraged to apply for the upcoming 2026-2027 Kosciusko Leadership Academy class, which begins in August.

For more than four decades, KLA has equipped emerging and established leaders with the knowledge, relationships and experiences needed to better serve their organizations and the community, according to a news release. Through monthly leadership sessions, participants gain an in-depth understanding of Kosciusko County while building connections across business, education, government, healthcare, nonprofit organizations and industry.

“KLA has served this county since 1981 and provides outstanding networking and leadership development opportunities

for people across a wide spectrum of industries and organizations,” said Allyn Decker, the moderator for Kosciusko Leadership Academy. “Many of the local amenities and programs we enjoy started as KLA white-paper projects, including our greenway trail system, the Miller Sunset Pavilion, the Winona Lake Park Splash Pad and the new field house under construction at Grace College.”

Each year, KLA participants work together on collaborative white-paper projects that address opportunities and challenges facing Kosciusko County. Many of these ideas have evolved into initiatives that continue to improve the quality of life for residents throughout the county. Beyond the projects themselves, KLA creates lasting relationships and inspires graduates to remain active and engaged leaders in the community, according to the news release.

“I am grateful for the opportunity I had to participate in KLA this past school year. The relationships I built and the experiences I gained through this program will benefit me throughout my career,” Lukas Rife, a 20252026 Kosciusko Leadership Academy graduate, said in the news release. “I hope that, for myself and my fellow recent cadets, the momentum of being active and engaged community members does not stop here but continues for years to come.”

Professionals from all industries, backgrounds and career stages are encouraged to apply for the upcoming class. Applications are available online at kosciuskoleadership.org/ apply.

For questions about the program or application process, contact Ben Rice, recruitment committee, by sending an email to ben.rice@lakecitybank.com.

FASHION SHOW WINNERS Open Class Department Fashion Show winners and models gather following the competition Thursday, July 23, at the Elkhart County 4-H Fair.

Pictured from left are Renee, model for seamstress Rosanne Markham; seamstress Linda Moudy; seamstress Karen Meade; seamstress Sarah Lang; Melinda, model; seamstress Erin Datzman; Leah, model; Angela, model for seamstress Karen Meade; and Kirsten and Ember, models for seamstress Donna Hibschman. Photo provided by Purdue Extension.

Mural designs sought for building in downtown Warsaw

Main Street Warsaw is working with the property at 220 S. Buffalo St., Warsaw, to invite artists to design and submit original mural concepts for the south wall of the building.

Main Street Warsaw has provided a facade improvement grant to pay up to 50% of the cost of the project, according to a news release from the organization.

The mural subject matter and design should encourage visitation to downtown Warsaw and enhance it as a cultural destination.

Two students join TWF team for summer

The Watershed Foundation welcomes Tyler Strahan and Titiksha Gorhe as summer interns.

Strahan, an incoming senior at Grace College, is pursuing a degree in environmental science. Gorhe, a recent graduate of Warsaw Community High School with academic honors and a Lilly Scholar, plans to study neuroscience at Notre Dame.

In addition, the mural should attract people to view the art and elicit interaction, such as becoming part of the art by taking their picture in front of it or other means. Artists can find the necessary submission forms online at Downtown Warsaw Cultural District Plan - Main Street Warsaw. Artwork must be submitted as directed by Sunday, Aug. 30, to Terry Sweeney at tsweeney@ kchamber.com.

of life together for one cause that directly impacts their lives day to day.” He sees the internship as a step toward a career in conservation.

Titiksha Gorhe

Tyler Strahan Working alongside Watershed & Special Projects Coordinator Caitlin Yoder, Strahan will develop logistical resources for TWF’s Snapshot Water Monitoring Day, assessing and photographing monitoring sites and updating volunteer navigation resources. Strahan will also support outreach for the Healthy Shorelines Initiative.

Strahan grew up fishing and hiking in Florida; his coursework has since broadened that interest from marine environments into freshwater ecology. Work experience before college, he says, sharpened his sense of direction: “It taught me how to adapt and gave me clarity on what I actually want to do with my life.”

What drew him to TWF was its community-first approach to conservation. “TWF works directly with landowners to reduce negative impacts on water quality,” he said. “It draws people of all walks

As part of Notre Dame’s RISE Hometown program, Gorhe will spend the summer assisting with TWF’s community engagement efforts, working closely with TWF Communications and Engagement Specialist Hannah Godfrey.

Gorhe grew up with the local lakes as part of everyday life and was drawn to TWF’s work protecting them. “I believe it is important to educate people about conservation,” she said.

Her interest in neuroscience took root when a close family friend developed Alzheimer’s disease; the experience drives her curiosity. For Gorhe, her interest in neuroscience is closely connected to environmental work. “Clean water, healthy environments, and public health are all connected,” she said. “They both reflect my passion for using science to serve others.”

Active in environmental groups throughout high school, including Envirothon, Gorhe plans to minor in sustainability at Notre Dame and hopes to carry that commitment forward.

“We were excited to see the Downtown Warsaw Cultural Arts District Plan come to life, and this mural is a meaningful opportunity to support that vision,” said Angie Racolta, owner of the property and team owner of The Racolta Group at Encore Sotheby’s International Realty. “We want to enhance our building while creating something welcoming and memorable for the community - something that gives people another reason to visit, explore and enjoy downtown Warsaw.”

Racolta is also partnering with Main Street Warsaw to install a branded way-finding sign on the building.

“There is so much positive momentum happening downtown, and we are excited to invest in our property and be part of its continued growth,” Racolta said. “I am especially looking forward to seeing the creativity and ideas local artists bring to this project.”

This is the second mural project to be announced since the Downtown Warsaw Cultural Arts District Plan was launched in November 2025.

“It’s great to have property owners and business operators who are buying into the vision of the Downtown Warsaw Cultural Arts District Plan and our Façade Grant Committee and Main Street Warsaw board of directors were very supportive of this project,” said Terry Sweeney, Main Street Warsaw downtown development director.

Bannings celebrate 50th wedding anniversary

The congregation of Atwood Otterbein Church recently planned a 50th wedding anniversary open house for David and Jackie Banning, the church’s pastor and his wife.

The celebration was set for Sunday, Aug. 2, at the Atwood Community Building. The Bannings were married Aug. 7, 1976, at Ross Baptist Church in Gary. The pastor’s father, a Baptist pastor, officiated

at the wedding ceremony. Jackie’s sister, Sandy, was maid of honor and David’s brother, Chuck, was best man.

Following their wedding, the Bannings lived in and around Griffith and Merrillville before relocating to Atwood. Their union produced two children, Lindsay Bobay, of Speedway, and Marcus Banning, of Warsaw. They enjoy their two granddaughters, Harlow and Maren.

Nappanee’s ‘Night

Out’ set for Sept. 1

Nappanee’s “A Night Out Against Crime” will be held from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1, at 201 W. Market St. The free community event will

feature food, games, bounce houses, challenges, a SWAT team, K-9 demonstrations and more. For updates, check the city of Nappanee’s Facebook page.

AWAITING A MURAL The south side of the building at 220 S. Buffalo St., Warsaw, will serve as the canvas for a new mural as part of the Downtown Warsaw Cultural District Plan. Photo provided by Main Street Warsaw.

TITIKSHA GORHE

TYLER STRAHAN

E nt E rtainm E nt

Altrusa-Warsaw receives Club 52 charter status

Altrusa International of Warsaw met Thursday, July 16 at Papa Vino’s Restaurant. President Mary Garrett led the meeting with 16 members present.

Altrusan Martie Lennane, Beaman Home board member, introduced April Slone, Beaman Home executive director, as the featured speaker. Slone updated members on recent developments, including the outreach programs in Fulton and Marshall counties. She said Beaman Home has a capacity of 36 beds, including four male beds, in addition to space for children. The clients are mostly women, with fewer than 10 males per year.

She emphasized how important community is to the clients. Beaman Home clients interact through craft nights, makeover nights, movie nights and celebrating holidays. Each Friday, bingo at Beaman is held for clients and children, where everyone receives a prize. A part-time counselor has been hired, bringing the total number of counselors to two. Currently, children in need of counseling are referred to other agencies. A future goal is to hire an in-house counselor to meet the specific needs of the children.

April Slone, executive director of Beaman Home, spoke at the Altrusa Warsaw Club 52 meeting. Photo provided by Bev Faulkner.

Altrusa-Warsaw was recently recognized as a Club 52 charter member by the Altrusa International Foundation. Club 52 is the expansion of what was formerly known as Club 21. Thirty years ago, the foundation started Club 21 as a way to provide camp experiences for children with HIV/ AIDS. The outreach has grown to include a wide range of programs for children throughout the world. With the growth, the cost has naturally increased. What was once a meaningful $21 donation in 1997 is equivalent to nearly $50 in 2026.

The foundation invited everyone to contribute $1 a week for 52 weeks or make a one-time donation of $52. Individual members who donated $52 between July 2025 and May 31, 2026, were recognized as charter members. Charter members received a Club 52 pin. Individual charter members include Jan Sloan, Ruth Skeel, Vicki Martin, Rosemary Laughlin, Bev Faulkner, Beth Huffer, Mary Garrett and Carol Volkers.

Each club had the opportunity to become a charter club by contributing $252. A Club 52 patch was added to the Warsaw banner as a symbol of charter status.

The $52 individual fee and $252 club fee will be assessed annually to ensure the needs of children worldwide are addressed.

The next meeting will be Thursday, Aug. 20, at Papa Vino’s. The social gathering will be from 5:30-6 p.m., with the business meeting beginning at 6 p.m. New members are welcome all year long.

Syracuse woman named grand champion in creative arts at fair

More than 350 exhibitors participated in the open class departments at this year’s Elkhart County 4-H Fair held last month. Cheryl Ringler of Syracuse was named grand champion in the creative arts department.

Sponsors included: Hahn Auctioneers Inc., Hawkins Water Tech Inc., Baked by Vi, SweetEm’s Cake Shoppe, Sew Creative

Threads, Welcome Home Farm, Woodruff’s Footwear and Apparel, Maple City Market, Mary Ann Lienhart Cross, Cross Hart Farms, a local bakery, The Nut Shoppe, The Quilt Shop at Essenhaus and Maple Corner Boutique and Gift Shoppe.

The overall grand champion award was sponsored by Interra Credit Union.

Jump onto the StoryWalk trail for a spider’s tale

By SARA MASEMAN Youth Services Warsaw Community Public Library

Families visiting Beyer Park this August and September are in for a fun little adventure with the new StoryWalk trail featuring “Jumper: A Day in the Life of a Backyard Jumping Spider” by Jessica Lanan.

This beautifully illustrated picture book lets readers see the world through the eyes of a curious jumping spider as she leaps around, hunts for food and explores her backyard. As you follow Jumper’s journey, you’ll learn all sorts of cool facts about her behavior and how she navigates her surroundings, all while gaining a greater appreciation for these little acrobats of nature.

Jumping spiders are pretty common in Indiana and are definitely some of the more interesting arachnids you’ll come across. Instead of spinning webs, these tiny hunters rely on their great eyesight and impressive jumps to catch their prey. With their big, forward-facing eyes, they seem to watch us while we watch them. Though they may look bold, they’re actually quite shy and focused on catching insects, making them helpful neighbors that keep bug populations in check in our gardens and parks.

The StoryWalk at Beyer Park makes reading an engaging outdoor experience, encouraging kids to stay active while building their literacy skills and developing a love of books. Families can stop at each display, read together and chat about the story as they stroll along the path. Thanks to the generous support of local organizations, the displays also feature text in both English and Spanish, making it accessible for everyone.

Whether you’re a regular visitor or it’s your first time, now is a perfect opportunity to join Jumper on her backyard adventure. And,

who knows, by the end of the story, you might gain a newfound appreciation for our friendly neighbor, the jumping spider.

Chautauqua-Wawasee receives boost from Dekko Foundation

Chautauqua-Wawasee provides life-enriching programs that inspire the mind, body and spirit by providing programs based on the four Chautauqua pillars: arts, education, faith and recreation, serving the greater Syracuse-Wawasee community and region.

“Our goal is to provide life-enriching experiences that help make Syracuse and the region a great place to visit, live, work and raise a family,” said Mark Knecht,

the organization’s president. “The Dekko Foundation’s support will allow us to increase our community involvement and program attendance. Specifically, it will allow us to provide meaningful experiences for children, moms, dads and grandparents, helping us toward our goal.”

Founded in 2014, Chautauqua has grown programming annually from five programs in 2014 to 24 in 2025. All programs are famContinued on page 7

GUEST SPEAKER April

Slone, executive director of Beaman Home, speaks at the Altrusa Warsaw Club 52 meeting. Photo provided by Bev Faulkner.

ALTRUISTIC ALTRUSA Altrusa International of Warsaw members pictured are in front from left: Mary Garrett, Martie Lennane, Bev Faulkner and Beth Huffer. In the back row: Rosemary Laughlin and Jan Sloan. Not pictured are Vicki Martin, Ruth Skeel and Carol Volkers. Photo provided by Bev Faulkner.

WALK AND READ “Jumper: A Day in the Life of a Backyard Jumping Spider” is the featured StoryWalk selection for August and September. Photo provided by Warsaw Community Public Library.

North Webster Library is chamber Member of the Month

The North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce recognized the North Webster Community Public Library as its July Member of the Month.

Since opening its doors in 1978, the North Webster Community Public Library has served as a cornerstone of education, enrichment and community connection. The library exists today thanks to the vision and determination of local residents who believed North Webster deserved a library of its own. What began as a small, volunteer-run library with donated books has grown into a vibrant, modern, 20,000-square-foot facility that continues to meet the evolving needs of the community.

Each year, the library welcomes nearly 100,000 visitors and circulates almost 110,000 books, movies, magazines and other materials, demonstrating its role as a trusted community resource. More than just a place to borrow books, the library offers more than 460 programs annually for children, teens, adults and seniors, serving more than 11,000 participants each year.

From story times and summer reading programs to technology assistance, crafting workshops, local history presentations, educational classes and community events, the North Webster Community Public Library provides opportunities for lifelong learning, creativity and meaningful connections. The library remains committed to creating a welcoming environment where residents of all ages can learn, discover and grow.

“The North Webster Community Public Library is much more than a building filled with books,” said Emily Shipley, president of the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce. “It is a gathering place where friendships are formed, knowledge is shared and our community comes together. Their dedication to serving residents of every age makes them an invaluable asset to North Webster. Their participation in and support of the chamber’s initiatives make them a great community partner.”

The North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize the North Webster Community Public Library as its July Member of the Month and thanks the library’s staff, board members, volunteers and supporters for nearly five decades of service to the community.

Chautauqua

Continued from page 6

ily-focused and typically include elements specifically for youth. The organization has primarily been a volunteer-driven organization, along with community partners providing program support.

“We have matured and grown to the size that will benefit from paid staff,” Knecht continued. “Our next phase of growth requires an executive director to provide leadership and management of day-to-day operations and expand our capacity to grow the organization by working with its six operating committees and teams.”

Dekko has committed $30,000 in financial support, with $20,000 as a gift and $10,000 available for one-to-one matching gifts. The funding will help Chautauqua’s capacity to grow as well as jumpstart and accelerate the schedule to bring in a talented leader who can propel the next phase of the organi-

CORNERSTONE OF EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY — The North Webster Community Public Library was recognized as the July Member of the Month by the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce. Shown in front are Elise Guy, chamber treasurer; Ann Bell, chamber board; Deb Minear, library board; Monique Hochstetler; Anna Jackson; Kenley Stewart; Keith Kuric, executive director, North Webster Community Public Library; Cathy Ervin, library member; Emily Shipley,

chamber president; and Sheila Strickland, chamber board.

Lake associations partner with TWF, awarded $203,000 in grants

Indiana Department of Natural Resources approves Pike, Chapman, and Winona Lake Association’s Lake and River Enhancement grant applications, awarding $203,000 to improve water quality in the Upper Tippecanoe River Watershed.

These LARE grants will assist local groups in funding projects to reduce sediment and nutrient loads that reach downstream lakes and cause weed and algal blooms.

Feasibility and engineering studies are completed to assess and ensure project success, and identify priority projects to ensure the largest impact per dollar.

Water Quality Improvement Projects

Pike Lake Association was awarded $48,000 for a feasibility design study on Deeds Creek between Husky Trail and US 30 (behind Parkview Hospital and the YMCA). A 2022 study found erosion in this stretch sends 125 tons of sediment, 67 pounds of phosphorus, and 134 pounds of nitrogen downstream to Pike Lake every year.

zation’s growth.

Since 1981, the Dekko Foundation’s mission has been to foster economic freedom through education. Chautauqua aligns with the Dekko Foundation’s belief that children and young people benefit from meaningful connections with their local communities.

Chautauqua-Wawasee is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of people in Syracuse and the surrounding northern Indiana region through programs centered on arts, education, faith and recreation. As one of 19 Chautauqua organizations, programming follows the tradition of the original Chautauqua movement, founded in 1874.

Chautauqua-Wawasee brings high-quality, accessible programming to the community, most of it free of charge. For more information, visit chquw.org or call (573) 377-7543.

With the project already in motion, Chapman Lakes Conservation Association has been granted an additional $55,000 to complete the entire headwaters construction project on Crooked Creek, an inlet to Chapman Lake. Upon completion, the project is projected to reduce 44.8 tons of sediment and 38.2 lbs of phosphorus annually.

Winona Lake Preservation Association received $100,000 to fund a Design-Build Project to address severe bank erosion on Peterson Ditch, a major Winona Lake inlet estimated to contribute 74 tons of sediment to the lake annually. This sediment carries nutrients that cause algae blooms; for this particular project, an estimated 68 pounds of phosphorus and 78 pounds of nitrogen will be prevented.

Cumulatively, these projects will protect lake health by preventing 173.2 pounds/year of phosphorus from entering waterways. In turn, these results will prevent the growth of over 1.7 million pounds of wet weeds and algae.

These investments by lake associations, IDNR, and The Watershed Foundation will not only improve our local lakes but also improve water quality in downstream waters, all the way to the Gulf of Mexico.

Partnership With TWF

Stopping erosion and preventing pollution in local lakes requires significant coordination among stakeholders - county officials, property owners, contractors, and funders. Lake associations are typically run by volunteers.

The Watershed Foundation fills that gap, employing skilled professionals with backgrounds in lake science, agriculture, and communications who specialize in building the partnerships that bring water quality projects like these to completion.

In the last 29 years, TWF has worked with partners to obtain 43 IDNR LARE grants totaling $1.8 million. Since these grants require at least a 20% match,

more than $2.25 million has been invested in projects on the land that protect and improve water quality in the Upper Tippecanoe River Watershed through the IDNR LARE grant program.

A Recent LARE Project

Success Story

TWF led a LARE-funded project that was completed in 2026 at Farm Ditch, an inlet to Crooked Lake in the headwaters of the Tippecanoe River Watershed. With a total project cost of $151,250, these efforts will prevent 11 tons of sediment and 9.2 pounds of phosphorus from entering the water that flows through

Big, Smalley, Backwater, Webster, and all the way to Lake Tippecanoe each year.

About LARE

“The IDNR’s LARE program is designed to protect and enhance aquatic habitat for fish and wildlife, and to ensure the continued viability of Indiana’s publicly accessible lakes and streams for multiple uses, including recreational opportunities. This is accomplished through measures that reduce non-point sediment and nutrient pollution of surface waters to a level that meets or surpasses state water quality standards.”

In back are Gwen Fuchs, chamber board; Emily Jackson, chamber board; Tyler Huffer, chamber board; Marilyn Cassel, library board; Dino Saurus; Pam Long; Tisha Holsten, library board; Sally Johnson; Jill Chalk; Linda Land, chamber board; Rebecca Charles; Susan Stump, chamber board; and Nicole Nabinger, chamber board. Photo provided by the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce.

STABILIZATION Streambank stabilization measures reduce water velocity and bank erosion. Photos provided by The Watershed Foundation.

CONTROLS EROSION Check dams are installed to control gully erosion because they dissipate and reduce water velocity before it reaches the stream.

Jacki Ann Barr Retired Teacher

Jacki Ann Barr, 64, Warsaw, passed away Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Indiana University Medical Center, Indianapolis.

She attended Traders Pointe Christian Church and participated in Bible Study Fellowship. Jacki was a beloved teacher at several schools over the years, including Lakeland Christian Academy in Winona Lake. When she retired, she received her highest promotion: full-time Grammy.

Jacki was born May 23, 1962, in Bryan, Ohio, the daughter of Robert and Sheila (Michael) Grundish. Jacki was a 1980 graduate of Edgerton High School, where she was very active in sports and cheerleading and was elected homecoming queen. She attended Mount Vernon Nazarene University and obtained a bachelor’s degree in education and a Master of Education degree from Grace College. On Aug. 24, 1985, she married Bill Barr, who survives.

Jacki is also survived by her daughters, Bethany (Ross) Hessel and Brittany (Jeff) Moerchen; six grandchildren, Sadie Hessel, Ainsley Hessel, Levi Hessel, Coy Moerchen, Wynn Moerchen and Mills Moerchen; her mother, Shelia Grundish; and two sisters, Michelle (Bob) Day and Terri (Henry) Kotula, all of Edgerton, Ohio.

She was preceded in death by three Hessel grandchildren, who were united for the first time in heaven with Grammy; her father, Robert Grundish; paternal grandparents, Floyd and Mary Grundish; maternal grandparents, George and Polly Michael; uncle, Bill Grundish; brother-in-law, Henry Kotula; and nephew, Jacob Day.

Visitation and funeral services were held Saturday, Aug. 1, at Krill Funeral Home, 114 E. Hull St., Edgerton, Ohio. Burial followed at Maple Grove Cemetery, Edgerton, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Edgerton Food Pantry or Sarah’s Friends.

Norma Brinkerhuff

Norma Brinkerhuff, 85, Warsaw, died Thursday, July 30, 2026. Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.

Births

Navany Aguilar

Nayeli Martinez Aragon and Luis Angel Aguilar Leos, Goshen, are the parents of a daughter, Navany, born at 6:36 p.m. July 26, 2026, at Goshen Hospital. She weighed 5 pounds, 15.8 ounces, and was 19 inches long.

Catalina Huizar Campos

Roquel Campos Vasquez and Angel Huizar, Goshen, are the parents of a daughter, Catalina, born at 4:36 p.m. July 26, 2026, at Goshen Hospital. She weighed 5 pounds, 13.8 ounces, and was 18 1/2 inches long.

Betty Wertenberger

Betty Wertenberger, 92, Warsaw, died Tuesday, July 28, 2026. Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.

Phoenix Asher Reynolds

Veronica Michelle Garber and Fred Edward Reynolds, Cromwell, are the parents of a son, Phoenix Asher, born at 3:22 p.m. July 27, 2026, at Goshen Hospital. He weighed 5 pounds, 12.2 ounces, and was 19 inches long.

Sebastian Alexander Guffey Scott and Margelyn Guffey, Goshen, are the parents of a son, Sebastian Alexander, born at 6:48 a.m. July 29, 2026, at Goshen Hospital. He weighed 7 pounds, 10.4 ounces, and was 20 inches long.

Court News

Small Claims

The following small claims have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Pearlie Whitaker v. Chris McGowan, $425

Parker Investments LLC v. Josh Northrup, $565

Civil Collections

The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler presiding:

Jefferson Capital Systems LLC v. Osvaldo Avendano, $2,848.20; v. Alexa M. Balestri, $2,511.12; v. Angel Evans, $3,826.93; v. Tamara Roller, $735.21

Capital One NA v. George A. Baker, $1,954.72; v. Emily M. Rodes, $6,667.48

JP Morgan Chase Bank NA v. Leigh Brown, $7,861.78

LVNV Funding LLC v. Melissa Bullington, $638.07; v. Marty Hornbaker, $681.27; v. Lori Iarossi, $3,790.49; v. William K. Kreicker, $1,606.76; v. David Zink, $1,032.61

Glenbrook Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Dustin Michael Clarkston, $17,865.62; v. Zachary Lawrence Jackson, $16,669.21; v. Hykeem Jermaine Tolfree, $22,700.82

HS Financial Group LLC, a/a/o assignee of Carvana LLC v. Kenneth Doberstein, $12,276.39

Midland Credit Management Inc. v. Islay Figaniak, $1,226.35

Wilshire Consumer Credit, d/b/a Wilshire Commercial Capital LLC v. Brian Fowler, $5,269.43

Midland Credit Management Inc. v. Jamie Geib, $2,347.24; v. Kayla M. Ewing, $15,221.05; v. Lidia Perez, $1,542.29

Capital One NA successor by merger to Discover Bank v. Megan Goralczyk, $5,517.31

Crown Asset Management LLC v. Sue L. Morgan, $1,549.26

Kitch Acceptance Corp. v. Ada Perry, $2,910.34

Resurgent Receivables LLC v. Ryan Rautenberg, $1,128.11

Spring Oaks Capital SPV LLC v. Tina Seabolt, $3,897.71

NCB Management Services Inc. v. Melissa Shepherd, Toby A. Shepherd, $6,172.33

Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. Larry Tran, $1,969.13

Opportunity Financial LLC v. Caleb Wilson, $1,808.48 Evictions

The following evictions have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:

Yes Communities v. Connie Chandler, $4,870.34

Vasco Realty LLC v. Rachel Davis, $270

Lake City Investment Group LLC v. Victoria L. Leonard, $3,600

Culver Development Corp. v. Tamara Senter, William Siddon, $32.50

William Siddon, $3,432.35

Mortgage Foreclosures

The following mortgage foreclosures have been awarded in Kosciusko Supe-

rior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Lakeview Loan Servicing LLC v. Maranda G. Evett, $188,608.60

NewRez LLC v. Susan L. Gerrity, $64,653.94; v. Cory S. Klug, $68,804.44

Superior Court III

The following fines and costs for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Speeding - Gary D. Jones, Syracuse, $164.50; Joseph R. LeCount, Milford, $164.50; Tim A. Mort, Pierceton, $164.50; Logan C. Gough, Warsaw, $164.50; Estefani A. Barrera, Warsaw, $164.50; Benedict C. Yoder, Nappanee, $164.50; Joel T. Bowen, Wakarusa, $189.50; Miranda M. Fritzel, Claypool, $164.50; Maria E. Andrade, Milford, $164.50; Jayda K. Smeltzer, Claypool, $164.50; Levi M. Cords, Warsaw, $164.50; Marco A. Castro, Warsaw, $164.50; Mason T. Shoemaker, Syracuse, $164.50; Bayley J. Bryant, Warsaw, $164.50; Brian E. Burton, Milford, $164.50; Albaceli Rivera-Bermudez, Millersburg, $164.50

Driving left of center - Stanley Roger Koontz, Mentone, $164.50; Jeromie L. Bright, Syracuse, $164.50

Failure of occupant to use a safety belt - Barbara A. Fields, Etna Green, $25; Deborah L. Conley, Warsaw, $25; Giselle D. Hatfield, Warsaw, $25; Clayton L. Fox, Syracuse, $25; Ryan Katherine Donovan, North Manchester, $25

Following too closely, learner’s permit violation - Alexi J. Cervantes, Warsaw, $189.50

Unsafe lane movement - Driven M. Anderson, Leesburg, $164.50

Disregarding lighted signal - Miguel A. Espinoza, Warsaw, $164.50; Nicolis A. Strickland, North Webster, $164.50; Mark E. Knecht, Syracuse, $164.50

Disregarding stop sign - Adriana Belmares, Ligonier, $164.50; Dylan K. Hively, North Webster, $164.50; Anevay R. Manges, Cromwell, $164.50

Disregarding an official traffic control device - Isabel I. Temich, Huntington, $164.50; William A. Mast, Milford, $164.50

Improper passing - Kierstyn Jones, Warsaw, $164.50

No valid driver’s license - Orin J. Pearson, Winona Lake, $164.50

Permitting unlicensed person to drive - Jorge S. Flores-Rosales, Warsaw, $164.50

Permitting unlawful operation of a motorboat - Kyle Lee Newcomer, Syracuse, $164 No valid driver’s licenseChirinos Yaritza Ponce, Warsaw, $164.50

Failure to register an offroad vehicle - Chirinos Yaritza Ponce, Warsaw, $164

Improper display of license plate, speeding - Mario Gonzalez, Warsaw, $189.50

Passing a stopped school bus when stop arm is out and activated - Izabella M. Miller, Wabash, $189.50; Lylah A. Williman, Warsaw, $189.50

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Padilla, Pierceton, $164

Operating with expired plates - Isaiah R. Zimmerman, North Webster, $164

Failure to signal turn, operating a motor vehicle with a fictitious plate - Jerrad M. Schlemmer, Pierceton, $189.50

Marriage Licenses

The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court Melissa Boggs: Bellman-Sherman

Kole Travis Bellman, 24, Milford, and Kyla Ryan Sherman, 23, Milford Bussard-Heinbeck

Ashley Bussard, 40, Mentone, and David Heinbeck, 40, Comstock Park, Mich. Ellis-Manhardt

Rhyleigh Katelynn Faye Ellis, 20, Atwood, and Preston Anthony Ryder Manhardt, 20, Milford Newton-McCord

Logan Eugene Newton, 20, Warsaw, and Maya Nicole McCord, 25, Mentone

Kirchenstien-Wagoner

Rex Kirchenstien, 22, Mentone, and Delaney Wagoner, 23, Silver Lake Hosteter-Lippe

Jacob Hosteter, 26, Kokomo, and Liza Lippe, 24, Claypool Shepard-Blosser

Kaeclin M. Shepard, 20, Cromwell, and Mason Blosser, 23, Goshen Lake-Thornburg

Ephram Joseph Levi Lake, 21, Claypool, and Natalie Ann Thornburg, 19, Bourbon Jimenez-Lacher

Jasmine Jimenez, 22, Warsaw, and Patrick Lacher, 25, Warsaw Camacho-Lara Montes

Olivia Anna Camacho, 43, Elkhart, and Cesar Lara Montes, 44, Warsaw Sells-Ruszkowski

Alisha Rose Sells, 42, Claypool, and Robert Martin Ruszkowski, 46, Claypool

Bontrager-Saltsman

Leon Thomas Bontrager, 41, Cromwell, and Cheri Rae Saltsman, 41, Cromwell Knecht-Neher

Melissa Michelle Knecht, 46, Warsaw, and Gregory Lee Neher, 43, Warsaw Pedraza-Behrens

Brionna Pedraza, 25, Warsaw, and Evan Behrens, 25, Warsaw Chen-Heinz

Thomas Chen, 28, Syracuse, and Rachel Heinz, 27, Syracuse Lenz-Knisely

David John Lenz, 66, Rochester, and Michelle Renee Knisely, 65, Warsaw

Marriage Dissolutions

Boating equipment violation/ float device per person requirement - Matthew S. Carmien, Claypool, $164

Insufficient personal flotation devices - Brad E. Masterson, Warsaw, $164

Fishing without a license - Brad Alan Chaffins, Cromwell, $164

Improper display of license plate - Alejandro C. Perez, Syracuse, $164

Owner allows dog to stray beyond owner’s premises - Lee A. Piercy, Syracuse, $25

Failure of occupant to use a safety belt, child restraint system violations - James Andrew Donovan II, North Manchester, $75 Unlawful possession of tobacco product - Elana Roxanna

The following couples have filed for a marriage dissolution in Kosciusko Superior Courts I or IV: Ooley - Dakota M. Ooley, Syracuse, and Madison E. Ooley. They were married Aug. 18, 2023, and separated July 24, 2026. One minor child.

Dials - Casey Dials, Warsaw, and Nicholas Dials, Warsaw. They were married June 27, 2020, and separated July 24, 2026. No minor child(ren).

Mack - Lyndsay Mack, Warsaw, and Stephen Mack, Syracuse. They were married Sept. 4, 2020, and separated March 30, 2026. No minor child(ren).

Smallwood - Lisa L. Smallwood, Syracuse, and Anthony R. SmallContinued on page 9

JACKI ANN BARR

Syracuse resident among Interra Credit Union leadership promotions

Syracuse-area resident Eric Erlenwein has been promoted to assistant vice president, commercial lender II at Interra Credit Union as part of several recent leadership announcements by the financial institution.

With nearly 20 years of experience in collections, retail banking and commercial lending, Erlenwein works closely with business members to provide lending solutions and financial guidance tailored to their needs. His relationship-focused approach helps businesses identify opportunities and secure financing that supports long-term growth.

Before joining Interra’s commercial lending team, Erlenwein served as the credit union’s collections manager for 12 years and Syracuse branch manager for five years. He said those experiences continue to shape the way he serves members today.

“Working in collections taught me to listen and understand

what members were going through so I could help provide the best possible solutions during some of their toughest times,” Erlenwein said.

He said his time as branch manager also strengthened his passion for helping employees develop.

“Being a branch manager allowed me to focus on our members while also helping team members grow both individually and as a team,” he said. “Those experiences continue to help me as a commercial lender as I work alongside businesses to support their growth and financial needs.”

Erlenwein said helping mem-

bers succeed - along with working alongside his team - remains the most rewarding part of his job. “My team is what excites me most about my role,” he said. “Without them, I could not do what I do.”

Erlenwein lives in the Syracuse-Lake Wawasee area with his wife, Cara. Outside of work, he enjoys RV travel, scuba diving, fishing and spending time with family.

Interra also announced the promotion of Alan Hauger to senior vice president, commercial

lender IV. Hauger, who has more than 22 years of experience in the financial industry and joined Interra in 2021, works with businesses throughout northern Indiana to provide financing for expansion, commercial real estate, equipment purchases, acquisitions and working capital. He is active in the community through local youth baseball and previously served as vice president of the Concord Music Association Board. Hauger lives in Elkhart.

The credit union also promoted Doug Briones to vice president of innovation management, a newly created position that oversees software development, business analysis and project

management. Briones brings more than a decade of experience in financial services and project management and will lead technology initiatives designed to improve employee and member experiences while supporting Interra’s strategic growth.

In addition, Interra welcomed Nicole Grzybowski as assistant vice president, senior financial analyst. Grzybowski has nearly 10 years of experience in public accounting, financial institution auditing and public sector consulting. She will oversee budget planning and risk analysis while supporting the credit union’s long-term financial strategy. A summa cum laude graduate of Ferris State University, she lives in Mishawaka with her family.

The promotions and new hire reflect Interra Credit Union’s continued investment in experienced professionals who support business growth, innovation and member service throughout the communities it serves.

Habitat’s Women Build kicks off home project in Warsaw

More than 80 women gathered Tuesday evening, July 28, in the parking lot of Warsaw Community Church to kick off this year’s Habitat for Humanity Women Build, launching construction of a home for a local family.

The event marks the second consecutive year the Women Build has set out to fund and build an entire home in Warsaw.

“Last year, this event was so

successful and meaningful, we knew we had to bring it back this year,” said Stacy Price, a Habitat for Humanity board member. “Just like in 2025, women from across this community are coming together, volunteering on-site and raising money so a local family can become homeowners for the first time.”

This year’s Women Build includes 20 all-women teams with more than 200 participants. In

addition to volunteering on the construction site, each team is helping raise funds for the project.

The campaign has a fundraising goal of $180,000, with more than $52,000 already raised.

Habitat Director Ben Logan thanked the volunteers and donors for making the project possible.

“We are so grateful for how the women of this community

Local students named to dean’s list

The following local students were recently named to the dean’s list of their respective colleges/universities: Manchester University

have really taken ownership of this event,” Logan said. “It really is only possible because of all these volunteers and donors. Thank you for giving this family a hand up with their housing.”

Habitat also recognized United Way of Whitley and Kosciusko Counties as the event’s food sponsor, Warsaw Community

Church for providing the event space, and Metzger Trucking for donating transportation of the framed walls to the build site.

To learn more about Habitat’s Women Build, visit kosciuskohabitat.org/womenbuild, call (574) 269-4104 or follow @kosciuskohabitat on Facebook.

Bourbon - Elijah Hernandez, Anna McIntyre, Hannah Snyder, Braden Unruh Claypool - Ava Catanella, Jaden Owens

Continued from page 8

wood, Jeffersonville. They were married Jan. 1, 2021, and separated Feb. 15, 2026. No minor child(ren).

Castro-Castro Terrones - Gladys Castro, Warsaw, and Juan Antonio Castro Terrones, Warsaw. They were married March 27, 2021, and separated March 27, 2025. No minor child(ren).

Gutierrez-Gomez-Martinez

Tapia - Luz Gutierrez Gomez, Warsaw, and Alejandro F. Martinez

Leesburg - Anna Allen, Adaline Haynes Milford - Gracelyn Hills, Leo Wrage

Tapia, Juarez, Mexico. No minor child(ren). No additional information was available. Harner-Helblig - Parker Harner, Silver Lake, and Autumn Helblig, Indianapolis. They were married June 16, 2022, and separated March 13, 2024. No minor child(ren). Farmer - Jada Farmer, Syracuse, and Terrance Farmer, Syracuse. They were married Oct. 22, 2022, and separated July 23, 2026. One minor child.

Nappanee - Montana Green, Sierra Knight

North Manchester - Calvin Brown, Ayla Cashdollar, Ava Egolf, Miriam Erbaugh, Kadence Fox, Elise Harter, Gracie Lauer, Ty MacAtee, Marissa McLean, Mindy Moore, Logan Penrod, Ashley Pierce, Megan Pierce, Hadley Schannep, Molly Schannep, Riley Shock, Gabrielle Simmers, London Spangle, Chloe Steele

Pierceton - Cassidy Skinner

Silver Lake - Aymia Miller, Sean Reiley Pega, Alexander Trusty

South Whitley - Korbin Fulk, Michael Ianucilli

Syracuse - Brooke Catron

Warsaw - Gisel Juarez-Medina, Abigail Oliver, Vanesa Perez-Cabrera, Vanellyz Vazquez Texidor

Winona Lake - Grace Beckering

ALAN HAUGER

DOUG BRIONES

ERIC ERLENWEIN

NICOLE GRZYBOWSKI

WOMEN’S BUILD More than 80 women gathered Tuesday, July 28, in the parking lot of Warsaw Community Church to kick off this year’s Habitat for Humanity Women Build,

launching construction of a home for a local family. Photo provided by Habitat for Humanity.

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Mobile mammography in downtown Warsaw Aug. 6

In an effort to improve local health access, Francine’s Friends Mobile Mammography will be holding a mobile screening day on Thursday, Aug. 6, in downtown Warsaw at First United Methodist Church, 179

S. Indiana St.

For more information regarding eligibility, insurance coverage or to schedule an appointment, residents can call (260) 483-1847. Francine’s Friends Mobile

P ublic A uctions

Sliter Real Estate And Personal Property Auction

9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 8. Located at 8537 Abbott St., Bremen. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.

Public Auction

9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 8. Located 3 1/2 miles south of Nappanee on SR 18 to 1050N, east approximately 3 1/2 miles to auction.

Online Real Estate Auction

6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11. Property located at 371 Baythorne Drive, Warsaw. Open house

5:30-6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.

Shirk Personal Property Auction

Noon Tuesday, Aug. 11. Located at 60692 CR 13, Goshen. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.

Shirk Family Farm

Real Estate Auction

6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11. Located at 60692 CR 13, Goshen. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.

Online Personal Property Auction

Bidding open until 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11. Pickup in Warsaw. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.

Dale And Esther Hochstetler Auction

3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 12. Located south of Nappanee on SR 19 to 1050N, west 2 miles to 1000W, north 11169 1000W, Nappanee.

Phone Bid

Real Estate Auction

Bidding open until 4 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 12. Property located 2 miles north of Millersburg on SR 13 to CR 38, west 3 miles to CR 33, north ½ mile to 64605 CR 33, Goshen. For bidding and bidding updates, call (260) 499-0216 or (260) 4990093.

Public Auction

9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15. Located on CR 48 between CR 11 and CR 13 at 24549 CR 48, Nappanee.

Phone Bid Business Auction

Bidding open until 3 p.m. Monday, Aug. 17. Property located 3 blocks south of stoplight in downtown Middlebury on SR 13 to Spring Street, then to end of road at 209 W. Spring St., Middlebury. For bidding and bidding updates, call (574) 642-0444.

Public Auction 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19.

Mammography is a program of Parkview Health. The event is made possible through support from Health First Kosciusko and the partnership of Parkview Health, according to a news release from Live Well Kosciusko.

Reps. Abbott, Snow highlight new state laws taking effect

State Reps. David Abbott (R-Rome City) and Craig Snow (R-Winona Lake) are highlighting new laws that took effect July 1 following the 2026 legislative session. These new laws will help strengthen immigration enforcement, cut taxes for working Hoosiers and support Hoosier farmers and small businesses.

Local lawmakers highlighted the following new laws that will impact Hoosiers:

Senate Enrolled Act 76: Strengthening Immigration Enforcement.

Abbott said this new law strengthens immigration enforcement in Indiana by ensuring local and state cooperation with federal authorities, requiring local units of government to comply with immigration detainer requests.

“Protecting Hoosiers and upholding the law go hand-in-hand,” Abbott said. “This legislation aligns state policy with federal immigration enforcement efforts while strengthening overall public safety.”

House Enrolled Act 1177: Expanding Childcare Access.

A new law expands the state’s employer childcare tax credit for businesses that offer childcare

Located 1 1/2 miles west of Nappanee to CR 101, south across railroad tracks, then 1/2 mile west on CR 56 to 30038 CR 56.

Land And Home Auction

6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27. Inspections 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11 and Wednesday, Aug. 19. Located at Kosciusko County Fairgrounds, 1400 E. Smith St., Warsaw. Tracts 1-3: adjacent to 1474 S. 900W, Mentone. Tracts 4-8: 678 S. 950W, Etna Green. Schrader Auction, schraderauction.com.

Menards collecting pet supplies for local humane association

Menards stores will once again serve as collection sites for pet supplies benefiting local humane associations during the company’s annual Pet Supplies Drive.

The drive runs Aug. 1 through Sept. 30. Donations may be placed in collection boxes located near the exit doors at participating Menards stores.

Customers may donate a variety of pet supplies, including pet food, treats, feeders, collars, beds, storage containers and mats. Items are available for purchase in the stores’ Pet & Wildlife departments.

The annual drive helps provide needed supplies to local humane organizations caring for animals in the community.

options to employees. The credit can be used to help pay for costs such as operating or contracting with a childcare facility, employee training and higher wages for staff.

Senate Enrolled Act 243: Cutting Taxes for Working Hoosiers.

Snow said a new law he co-sponsored aligns with President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts Act to eliminate state taxes on tips and overtime for hardworking Hoosiers in 2026.

“Just like past years, this legislative session we cut red tape and lowered taxes,” said Snow, who serves as vice chair of the House Ways and Means Committee. “Hoosiers and their families deserve to keep more of their money as we continue to make Indiana a great state to live, work and raise a family.”

House Enrolled Act 1424: Supporting Hoosier Farmers, Small Businesses.

A new law prevents over-regulation on Hoosier farmers and local vendors, giving them more freedom to sell their products and expanding access to affordable, homegrown food.

Visit iga.in.gov to learn more about these and other new state laws.

MOBILE SCREENING Mobile mammography screening will be available in downtown Warsaw on Thursday, Aug. 6. Photo provided by Live Well Kosciusko.

FWF presents ‘Wrestling for Preacher Dave’ benefit show

Funkdafied Wrestling Federation will host a special benefit event, “FWF Presents: Wrestling for Preacher Dave,” Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026, at the Kosciusko County 4-H Fairgrounds Arts Building, 1400 E. Smith St., Warsaw. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the first bell at 7 p.m.

Every dollar from ticket sales and concessions will go directly to David “Preacher Dave” Beliles. Beliles suffered a broken hip during FWF’s Summerjam event July 25, requiring immediate total hip replacement surgery and months of recovery. All wrestlers have waived their booking fees, and concessions - including pulled pork and baked goodshave been fully donated.

The card features eight matches, highlighted by:

• FWF Hybrid Championship: Champion “Battle Born” Michael Draven vs. “Dirty” Donny Gunner.

• Unsanctioned Street Fight: Former FWF Heavyweight Champions David Knight vs. Simon Socrates (who was forced to retire from FWF after failing to defeat Knight in a steel cage match for the title).

• Main Event: New FWF Heavyweight Champion “Underdog” Damien Easterday vs. Cletus (former FWF Heavyweight Championl and one-half of the FWF Tag Team Champions, NBK - Natural Born Khaos).

Tickets are $15 and avail-

able from FWF promoter Brian “Lightning Bolt” Johnson at (574) 377-2907, via the official FWF Facebook page, or at the door.

“FWF has always been a family,” Johnson said. “Dave has been with us for five years and it’s always been a pleasure working with him. Everyone loves and respects Preacher Dave. Our team is banding together like never before to make this event a success. This is really inspiring stuff.”

FWF local business partners have donated a number of items and services for local establishments and will be raffled off during the show as well. Every single dollar will go directly to Preacher Dave.

Wa-Nee Schools earns third straight transportation honor

The Wa-Nee Community Schools transportation department has been named one of North America’s Top Transportation Teams for the third consecutive year, becoming the first district to achieve a “three-peat” in the award program’s history.

The annual awards recognize six school transportation departments across North America and are divided into two categories: districts with 100 or more team members and those with fewer than 100.

Wa-Nee earned top honors in the under-100 category, joining Franklin Square Union Free School District and Pembroke Central School District, both in New York. Winners in the 100-plus category were Franklin Township Community School Corp. in Indiana, Hoover City Schools in Alabama and Rockwall ISD in Texas.

Wa-Nee previously won the award in 2024 and 2025. Pembroke and Franklin Township also have won three times, though not consecutively.

“Winning three years in a row makes me super proud of our staff,” said Matt Hostetter, transportation assistant and fleet manager for Wa-Nee Community Schools. “I was surprised and proud and ex-

cited to continue the tradition. Our school district mission statement is, ‘A Standard of Excellence.’”

Hostetter participated in a panel discussion July 13 in Reno, Nev., during the STN EXPO WEST conference to discuss what makes the Wa-Nee transportation team successful.

Winners were selected solely through anonymous employee surveys that measured department culture, resources, leadership, career development and incentives.

“Congratulations to all the 2026 Top Transportation Teams and a special shoutout to three-peat winner Wa-Nee and three-time winner Pembroke,” said Antonio Civitella, president and CEO of Transfinder, which launched and oversees the program. “If you are in school transportation and are looking for whom to model your culture after, these two districts are a great place to start.”

Civitella said participating districts use survey feedback to improve workplace culture and better support team members.

Each winning district receives a full scholarship to STN EXPO WEST in Reno, with airfare and hotel accommodations provided

Whitley Humane Society shares first half of 2026 impact report

The Humane Society of Whitley County is celebrating what it says is a successful first half of 2026, highlighting the impact made possible through the work of staff, volunteers, supporters and community partners.

During the first six months of the year, the nonprofit shelter has provided care, shelter and lifesaving services to animals throughout Whitley County while helping hundreds of pets find safety, medical care and loving homes, according to a news release from the organization.

“Our nonprofit shelter numbers are pretty incredible,” said Abbi Carroll, director of operations for the Humane Society of Whitley County. “We take in pets from all across Whitley County, and every one of these numbers represents an animal whose life has been changed.”

By The Numbers

From January through June 2026:

• 198 animals adopted into homes

• 81 animals transferred to rescue partners for additional placement opportunities

• 241 spay/neuter surgeries completed

• 165 lost pets reunited with their families

• 305 pets microchipped Carroll emphasized that the statistics represent only a portion of the work performed behind the scenes each day.

“Behind every adoption, reunion and happy ending are countless hours of work that most people never see,” Carroll said.

Behind The Numbers

Over the first six months of 2026, shelter staff and volunteers also:

• Washed more than 2,700 loads of laundry, averaging more than 15 loads every day

• Operated the shelter’s commercial dishwasher for more than 400 hours, sanitizing food bowls, litter pans and medical supplies

for the transportation department leader. During the conference, winners shared best practices for building and maintaining successful transportation teams.

• Distributed tens of thousands of treats to help build trust and reinforce positive behavior

• Traveled thousands of miles transporting animals to rescue partners, veterinary appointments

and other lifesaving destinations

• Prepared and served more than 60,000 meals to cats, dogs, kittens and puppies

• Filled and refilled countless water bowls every day

• Cleaned hundreds of kennels and litter boxes, often multiple times daily

• Responded to countless phone calls, emails, adoption applications, lost pet reports and community inquiries

The Human Side

Beyond the measurable statistics, the shelter’s team has provided comfort and compassion to animals during some of their most vulnerable moments, according to the news release.

“Perhaps most importantly, we’ve comforted frightened animals, celebrated happy adoptions, mourned heartbreaking losses, laughed at goofy puppies, cuddled countless kittens and continued showing up every day even when the shelter was overflowing,” Carroll said.

The first half of 2026 has brought significant challenges for animal welfare organizations nationwide, and Whitley County has been no exception, the release stated.

“This year has challenged us,” Carroll said. “Intake has remained high. Kitten season has been relentless. Many days we’ve wondered how we’d make room for just one more animal in need. Yet our staff, volunteers, rescue partners and supporters have continued to step up when animals needed us most.”

As the organization looks toward the remainder of the year, shelter leadership remains focused on expanding lifesaving programs and continuing to serve both animals and the community.

“Thank you for helping us make the first half of 2026 one filled with second chances,” Carroll said. “Here’s to the next six months - and to every life we’ll change together.”

The Humane Society of Whitley County is a nonprofit animal welfare organization dedicated to providing shelter, care, adoption services, lost-and-found assistance, spay/neuter programs and community outreach for animals in need throughout Whitley County.

Community foundation awards regional arts grants

Twenty-nine organizations across northern Indiana have received grants from the Indiana Arts Commission to support arts programming from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027.

The grants, totaling more than $196,000, were awarded through the Indiana Arts Commission’s partnership with the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Since 1998, the Community Foundation has served as a Regional Arts Partner for the commission, overseeing the grant application and award process for St. Joseph, Elkhart, Fulton, Marshall, Kosciusko and Starke counties.

The grants are awarded in two categories: Arts Organization Support grants and Arts Project

Support grants. Arts Organization Support grants provide annual operating support for the ongoing artistic and administrative functions of eligible arts organizations. Arts Project Support grants fund specific arts projects or activities for eligible Indiana nonprofit organizations.

Kosciusko County recipients include: Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts, $13,648, Arts Organization Support grant. Cardinal Services, $3,000, Arts Project Support grant.

City of Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department, $4,000, Arts Project Support grant.

Marshall County recipients include: Heartland Artists, which re-

ceived a $10,450 Arts Organization Support grant.

Wild Rose Moon, which received an $8,093 Arts Organization Support grant.

The grants are funded in part by the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the Indiana Arts Commission, which receives support from the state of Indiana and the National Endowment for the Arts.

The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County is a nonprofit philanthropic endowment that supports initiatives and grant-making in arts and culture, health and human services, parks and community development, and youth and education. For more information, visit cfsjc. org or call (574) 232-0041.

WRESTING FUNDRAISER A wrestling event with proceeds benefiting David “Preacher Dave” Beliles will held be Thursday, Aug. 6 in Warsaw. Photo provided by the Funkdafied Wrestling Federation.