the Paper - February 25, 2026

Students LEVEL UP in ESports

By ABBY OLIVER Staff Writer

Athletic sports have been a major part of college life for decades In recent years, however, Esports has emerged as a rising outlet for students in both college and high school Locally, several schools are following this trend, and coaches and directors at three institutions highlight the skills, leadership and other benefits their students gain from Esports Manchester University

Esports has become one of the fastest-growing programs at Manchester University

Manchester University’s Esports program began in fall 2019 with tryouts, just months before the COVID-19 pandemic forced the university online for part of the spring semester Because tryouts were completed before the shutdown, the program continued operating virtually Despite challenges at its founding, the program started strong with 18 students competing in three games: “League of Legends”, “Rocket League” and “Super Smash Bros ”

Garrett Schieferstein, director of Esports at Manchester University, explained the pandemic’s effect on the program

“COVID probably helped out a little bit with building collegiate Esports because kids had to stay home for weeks and months on end, and it really helped grow Esports by getting more people into the games,” Schieferstein said Since 2019, the program has grown to 102 students competing in seven games: Fortnite, League of Legends, Overwatch, Marvel Rivals, Rocket League, Super Smash Bros and Valorant

Three full-time staff members - including Schieferstein and head coaches Logan Copsey and Aaron Cadiz - make the program one of the most wellstaffed among comparable colleges

Scholarships of up to $6,000 per year are available to incoming freshmen and transfer students

Although Esports is classified as a sport, some still hesitate to label it as such Critics argue that it is not as physically intensive or that students are simply “playing video games ” In real-

ity, it is more demanding than many realize

“A lot of people think that Esports is just pressing buttons,” Schieferstein said “The reality is, anyone can play Esports You can be in any physical condition to play Esports But it is really tough to do at a high level - it’s very low entry but very high mastery ”

Schieferstein said there is significant pressure to succeed in Esports, similar to traditional athletics

“In basketball, you can sub people in and out and you have a 10-man rotation,” Schieferstein said “In Valorant, there are five players If you mess up, you are probably losing that game ” Manchester competes in the National Association of Collegiate Esports and is an eighttime Great Lakes Esports Conference champion

Even in its short time at the university, the program has made an academic and personal impact Two of the first students Schieferstein mentored - including the first Esports scholarship recipient - have graduated In a full-circle moment, one former player is now a high school teacher who has started

READY FOR ACTION Garrett Armstrong, a

in criminology and

at the

“Being in Esports reminds me that there are long term goals that feel unachievable, but with dedicated effort and the right people, you can definitely push to the top,” Armstrong said. Photo provided by

an Esports program of his own “Watching them grow from these awkward, introverted 18-year-olds into 22-year-old captains, leaders, mentors and future educators was crazy,” Schieferstein said “They loved their time here and now they’re helping the next generation of Esports students have those opportunities, which is really cool to see ” Students interested in the Esports program at Manchester University can contact Schieferstein at GDSchieferstein@manchester edu Grace College

The Esports program at Grace College has also expanded since its founding

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the program has grown steadily and now has 18 active participants Students compete in “Fortnite”, “Rocket League”, “Valorant” and “Overwatch 2 ”

The team participates in the PlayVS College League, which organizes structured seasons for colleges across the country based on skill level

Marcus Moore, recruiter and program overseer, believes Esports is a valuable addition to college sports

“I don’t think it has to be a direct competitor to traditional sports, but it’s a great opportunity for the sporting landscape to expand,” Moore said “Esports requires skills - like all sports - that align strongly with academic and workforce readiness ”

Moore outlined leadership and communication, analytical thinking, data review, time management, brand building and media literacy as important skills students gain through Esports

Grace College also offers scholarships to students who participate in Esports, with amounts varying based on skill level As interest in Esports continues

to rise nationally, Moore hopes to expand the roster, upgrade equipment and facilities, and add games such as NBA 2K and Madden

Moore encourages high school students to consider Grace College and the opportunities available through its Esports program

Interested students can contact mooreme@grace edu

Tippecanoe Valley High School

Esports is not limited to colleges High schools across the country are also entering the world of Esports, including Tippecanoe Valley High School

The high school’s program began in fall 2020 and currently offers two games: “Overwatch” and “Marvel Rivals ” About 20 students, from freshmen through seniors, compete in PlayVS and the Indiana Esports Network, a collective of more than 150 school districts across the state

The network organizes competitions for 15 games across three enrollment divisions

Jonathan Tinkey, coach and sponsor of the program, recognizes the value of student participation in Esports He has students who compete in traditional athletics as well as Esports, something he says is “really cool to see ” Tinkey also sees Esports as a way for students to earn scholarships in college and develop critical-thinking skills

“It’s a great way to build community in Indiana,” Tinkey said “We get to organize skirmishes with other schools in the area ” Skirmishes are unofficial matches, similar to scrimmages in traditional athletic sports

Tippecanoe Valley High School recently completed largescale renovations to several spaces, including a brand-new Esports room

Engle promotes entertainment on the highest level

By LAURIE LECHLITNER Staff Writer

“I don’t believe the average American realizes how important entertainment is,” stated Sam Engle, Warsaw. “Since the beginning of time, a basic human need has been to witness things and events bigger than ourselves. I feel privileged to be part of the entertainment world, where performance is on the highest level. Our actors and actresses stop in on their way to Broadway, some becoming Tony winners.”

Engle is communications and donor relations coordinator at the Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts, Warsaw.

“I’m really glad to be back in Warsaw. Actually, I’m a fourth-generation resident of Warsaw. I graduated high school here and saw my first show at

Wagon Wheel when I was just 7 years old. It was directed by our famous Roy Hine, who passed away in 2007. The show was ‘A Year with Frog and Toad.’ And it was a privilege to see Roy’s handiwork.”

Engle is no stranger to the stage. He appeared in many high school productions and he starred in a workshop production for young people sponsored by Wagon Wheel when he was 16, titled “Urinetown.”

His college career began at Indiana Wesleyan, where he majored in strategic communications and public relations. He went on to earn a master’s degree in theater education from Southeastern Oklahoma State University.

“While I was working on my master’s, I was living in Orlando, Fla., employed by Disney. It was

ironic. I’ve never been a Star Wars fan but was assigned a job in the Star Wars division. I enjoyed the work. It allowed me to be creative. I was there 3 ½ years.”

A Facebook post eventually brought Engle back to his hometown.

“I said that I wanted to keep my master’s degree training sharp and I’d be interested in dialoguing with someone in theater education.”

Kira Lace-Hawkins contacted him about coming to Wagon Wheel in June 2024 to teach and direct a workshop show for a couple weeks. Aftr that experience, Scott Michaels asked him to come onboard full time in November 2024.

A typical day for Engle is often 12 hours long in the summer.

“For example, last year I was attending the evening performance of ‘South Pacific’ while watching the rehearsals of ‘Sister Act’ in the afternoons. I check my emails each day. I also connect with our community partners. I do both newspaper and radio interviews. One of my favorite parts is being creative with graphics and communication. I’m the marketing guy. I promote the shows. I’m also available to announce the performances at the beginning and to help

introduce the actors to patrons at the stage door at the end of a performance.”

Engle seeks to educate the public about the center.

“I want the community of Warsaw, Kosciusko County, South Bend, Fort Wayne and Elkhart to know that we have the leading regional summer stock in the nation in our area. That’s a great

and awesome privilege for me.”

Engle is married to his job and dearly loves it. He enjoys reading and watching movies.

“I really enjoy escapism at times into other worlds. I read 24 books last year. My perfect day is hosting a dinner party at my home filled with people I love and dancing in the kitchen. To me, that’s a fulfilling life.”

Abigail Weaver honored at UW-Whitewater Perfect Pitch competition

Abigail Weaver of Wakarusa, a management major at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, was one of 34 students who were recognized for their performances at the 2026 Enterprise Mobility Perfect Pitch Competition on Wednesday, Feb. 11.

Weaver’s pitch was part of the beginner placements and earned honorable mention in the competition.

A total of 225 participating students delivered a 60- to 90-second pitch that demonstrated themselves to a prospective new employ-

er - Enterprise Mobility. Students were challenged to tell a story that was unique to them featuring two to three characteristics about themselves.

UW-Whitewater’s Institute for Sales Excellence and American Marketing Association chapter, each supported by the College of Business and Economics, put on the event.

Learn more about the university’s Institute for Sales Excellence and AMA chapter by visiting uww. edu/cobe.

Habitat for Humanity launches Home Repair Program

Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County is launching a new Home Repair Program, in partnership with the Kosciusko County Community Foundation.

The Home Repair Program aims to better serve low-income homeowners across the county in need of a new roof or heating/ventilation/air-conditioning system to keep their home healthy, safe and affordable.

“This program is a natural evolution for Habitat as we strive to help more Kosciusko County residents maintain homeownership and reap its many benefits,” said Ben Logan, Habitat’s director. “When people can stay in the home they own, they can create and build better lives, and this new program will help low-income homeowners do just that.”

The Home Repair Program continues Habitat’s “commitment to offering a hand-up, not a handout.” The program is designed to help low-income homeowners make critical, nonemergency replacements of their roof or HVAC system. No other types of repairs will be considered at this time. Participants in the program will

attend required financial literacy courses, complete 15-25 volunteer hours with Habitat and help pay a portion of the repair cost through a zero-percent interest loan with Habitat.

“Having skin in the game is vital to Habitat’s principles and mission,” said Logan. “Our team designed this program to mirror our trademark Homeownership Program. It truly is a hand-up, and we are excited to offer this opportunity to Kosciusko County homeowners.”

Applications for Habitat’s Home Repair Program will open on Monday, March 2. Anyone interested in applying can visit kosciuskohabitat.org/repair to complete the application online or download a printable version. Paper applications will also be available at the Habitat ReStore, 3970 Corridor Drive, Warsaw, during store hours, which are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. The application and all required documents must be submitted electronically or by appointment no later than 3 p.m. Friday, March 13.

Applications for the Homeownership Program will open

later this spring, from April 2024. Those interested in applying can view the free application guide and sign up to receive reminder emails at kosciuskohab-

itat.org/homeownership.

For questions about either program, call (574) 269-4104 or send an email to apply@kosciuskohabitat.org.

For more information about Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County, visit kosciuskohabitat. org or follow the organization on Facebook (@kosciuskohabitat).

Area improvement projects get boost from INDOT

An influx of money should be getting bridge and other projects off the ground around the state and in the area - including in Kosciusko, Elkhart and Noble counties.

The Indiana Department of Transportation announced Feb. 18 that $179.8 million in federal transportation funding is being awarded to 50 cities, towns and counties in rural portions of Indiana to invest in local road and bridge improvements and sidewalk projects.

For this latest round of funding, rural communities will design, develop and purchase right of way for local projects. While the funds awarded now are dedicated to construction, INDOT will also financially participate in design, engineering and right of way acquisition components.

Federal transportation funds are leveraged by many communities to rehabilitate or replace local bridges. As INDOT continues to partner with local governments to make investments in taking care of existing roads and bridges, this round of funding awards emphasizes improving local bridge conditions. Nearly $129.1 million in federal funds were awarded for projects to rehab or replace 49 local bridges currently rated in poor condition. Beyond bridge projects, the funds will support pavement resurfacing/reconstruction projects; Transportation Alternative Program projects such as sidewalks, handicapped-accessible ramps and trails; and traffic safety projects.

INDOT dedicates approximately 25 percent of its federal

highway funds to supporting local projects each year. Metropolitan Planning Organizations distribute the funds to cities, towns and counties within the state’s larger urbanized areas while INDOT distributes funds outside MPO areas. Communities must contribute at least 20 percent in local matching funds and meet other federal requirements to receive federal funding.

Some projects in the area include:

Noble County

Communities were invited to submit project applications to INDOT for potential funding during a call for projects announced in November 2025.

Local bridge projects - Bridge 75/River Road over Elkhart River, $2,536,000; Bridge 45/CR 150E over Elkhart River, $1,906,400; Bridge 65/CR 525N over Elkhart River, $2,824,000

Elkhart County

Local bridge project - Bridge 252 carrying CR 1 over Baugo Creek, 0.5 miles north of CR 32, $2,367,769 Kosciusko County Local bridge project - Replacement of Bridge 145 on CR 600W, 0.20 miles north of West Shilling Road, $2,630,400

of Faith’ dinner celebration

Milford Food Bank is excited to invite the public to its Night of Faith fundraiser at 6 p.m. Friday, March 27, at its new facility at 112 E. Emeline St., Milford. Tickets must be purchased by March 1 and all proceeds benefit the food bank. Night of Faith will be an impactful evening of celebration and fellowship. Guests will enjoy a special dinner prepared by All Hearts Catering and Beez & The Rocker will provide live music. In addition, exclusive tours of the new facility will be given to guests.

It is the hope of the Milford Food Bank board of directors and staff that guests will leave inspired to help build a future rooted in faith and support its mission and vision for growth.

Milford Food Bank is a faithbased organization dedicated to sharing Christ’s love by providing food to local pantries serving those facing hunger, distributing over 400,000 pounds of food monthly, and partnering with 240 area food pantries and food assistance providers.

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The building expansion, which broke ground in June 2025, will be vital to the food bank serving more food partners. By doubling its storage space and the number of partners it can serve, it can provide more food and essential needs to pantries and organizations on the front lines that provide to those facing food insecurity.

To purchase tickets to Night of Faith or sponsor a table for your business, organization or large group, visit milfordfoodbank.org/ nightoffaith.

‘Greased Lightning’ Dueling Pianos March 6

Kosciusko Senior Services still has room for additional sponsors for its “Greased Lightning” Dueling Pianos event at 6 p.m. Friday, March 6, at The Owl’s Nest.

The event is a fundraiser for Kosciusko Senior Services with a ’50s theme. Attendees are encouraged to “be cool and dress to impress” by wearing their best ’50s look.

A variety of themed sponsorship options are available, ranging from $500 to $2,500, as well as a matching donation that could range from $4,000 to $10,000. Benefits are available to those who become sponsors.

Sponsorships will allow the se-

nior center to continue providing transportation, meals, activities, friendship and connection for seniors in the community. The following packages are available:

“Soda Shop Table” sponsorship$500: Includes an RSVP table for eight, group name recognition, buffet and cash bar.

“Summer Nites” sponsorship -

$1,200: Includes an RSVP table for eight, preferred seating, plated dinner and one drink ticket per person.

“Pink Ladies” sponsorship$2,000: Includes a VIP table, sponsor sign, plated dinner and two drink tickets per person.

“Rydell High” sponsorship -

$2,500: Includes a VIP table, room sponsor sign, plated dinner and two drink tickets per person.

“T-Bird Champ Match the Tip Jar” - $4,000 to $10,000: Includes a VIP premier table, room sponsor sign, plated dinner and two drink tickets per person.

Sponsorships may be made payable to Kosciusko Senior Services. Sponsors must provide a group name, contact email and phone number, group logo, and the names of attending guests. Email david@kc-seniorservices. org or call David at (574) 267-2012 for more information.

Kosciusko Foundation

The Kosciusko County Community Foundation recently awarded 21 local organizations and agencies with Community Fund Grants. In total, $164,835 was awarded.

Community Fund Grants are awarded based on a competitive grant application process. Nonprofit organizations serving Kosciusko County are eligible to apply in one of seven areas of interest that include education, health, recreation, arts and culture, civic projects, the environment, and human services.

The following organizations were awarded grants:

• American Red Cross of Northeast Indiana - $10,000 for disaster financial assistance, made possible by the Helen and Dave Gast Endowment.

• Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana - $7,500 for youth mentoring program support, made possible by the Dekko Enhancement Fund.

• Combined Community Services - $15,000 for self-sufficiency programs, made possible by the Edward R. and Patricia L. Likens Fund.

• Family Christian Development Center - $2,000 for family wellness and summer lunch program, made possible by the Thom-

as J. LeHew Endowment Fund.

• First United Methodist Church of Warsaw - $20,000 for accessible restrooms for community space, made possible by the Way Maker Endowment, Robert and Ann Gephart Memorial Fund, and the Archie and Betty Ferguson Community Endowment Fund.

• Greater Warsaw Cooperative Preschool - $7,000 for enrichment, technology and outdoor play equipment, made possible by the Bright Start Early Learning Fund and the Jerry and Norma Ferguson Community Fund.

• Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County - $10,088 for website and marketing updates, made possible by the Helen and Dave Gast Endowment and the Claude C. Hartman and Sarah R. Hartman Endowment Fund.

• Joe’s Kids - $8,640 for equipment for storage and organization, made possible the the Dekko Enhancement Fund.

• Kosciusko Community Senior Services - $15,000 for transportation and meal delivery for senior citizens, made possible by the Miles D. and Maxine I. Igo Community Fund.

• Kosciusko Community YMCA - $5,000 for financial assistance for memberships, made possible by the J. Alan Morgan and Lucy

Ivy Tech registration fair for summer and fall is March 4

Ivy Tech Community College Kosciusko County is holding a registration fair from noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 4, for anyone interested in registering for summer or fall classes.

The event will take place in Miller Hall at the campus, located at 2545 Silveus Crossing, Warsaw.

Advisers will be on hand to help students sign up for classes, and different departments will be set up to talk about the resources they offer.

Also, participants will have the chance to win prizes.

Those who are not enrolled in the college but wish to attend are encouraged to apply beforehand to streamline the process.

To sign up for the registration fair, visit the webpage at link. ivytech.edu/kcreg.

Also, there is still time to register for spring second eightweek classes, which begin March 16.

Class registration for summer and fall opens March 2.

Morgan Community Endowment in Kosciusko County and the Rob and Renee Parker Community Fund.

• Kosciusko County Emergency Management - $15,900 for safety spill mitigation trailer and equipment, made possible by the Kosciusko Civil Services Fund.

• Lake City Skiers - $1,407 for rigging the new team boat, made possible by the Miles D. and Maxine I. Igo Community Fund.

• Manchester Symphony Orchestra - $1,800 for educational performance for elementary students, made possible by the J. Alan Morgan and Lucy Morgan Community Endowment in Kosciusko County and the Board of Directors Community Endowment Fund.

• Operation Read - $7,500 for books and supplies for literacy programs, made possible by the Dekko Enhancement Fund.

• Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church - $3,000 for food for needy children at Claypool Elementary, made possible by the Robert and Ann Gephart Memorial Fund.

• Senior Talk Michiana - $1,500 for development and marketing of podcast for senior citizens, made possible by the Neal and Joy Carlson Community Fund.

• Stillwater Hospice - $8,000 for hospice, palliative and grief support services, made possible by

the Wood Family Charitable Fund and the Edward R. and Patricia L. Likens Fund.

• Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum - $3,500 for digitization, archival and cataloging technology, made possible by the J. Alan Morgan and Lucy Morgan Community Endowment in Kosciusko County.

• Syracuse-Wawasee Park Foundation - $5,000 for Wawasee South Phase One trail design, made possible by the Mariposa Fund, Archibald (Arch) and Della Baumgartner Community Fund, and the James Hall Family Legacy Fund.

• Turning Point Counseling Center - $10,000 for counseling for low-income clients, made possible by the Miles D. and Maxine I. Igo Community Fund and the Thomas J. LeHew Endowment Fund.

• Warsaw Parks & Recreation

Department - $7,000 for the 2026 Summer

the

Kosciusko students invited to enter Lilly Center Art Contest

Kosciusko County fourththrough 12th-graders are invited to submit their creative depictions of local waterways following the theme “Water Through the Seasons.”

Submissions for the Lilly Center Art Contest may be directed to Ariel Wagner by Thursday, April 2, at the Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams.

Last year, students created works of art that competed for cash prizes. More than 200 works of art were created in several different artistic mediums like oils, watercolors, colored pencils and more.

Caitlin Beer attends Whitko High School and her piece is titled “Reflections of Calm.” Last year, she received second place in the 11th/12th-grade category. When asked about what her art and the lakes and streams mean to her, Beer said, “You can catch weeds or

you can catch a fish and be happy. As long as you can cast and you’re spending time together, you’re creating memorable moments.”

It is important to note that artwork depicting invasive species will not be considered. For example, trumpeter and tundra swans are acceptable but mute swans are not. The Lilly Center asks for only native plants, animals and landscapes.

Prizes will be awarded for first ($100), second ($75) and third ($50) places. Winners are selected in each of the following grade categories: fourth-sixth, seventh-eighth, ninth-10th and 11th-12th. Submissions are welcome from any student in fourth through 12th grade in Kosciusko County.

Winning artwork will be displayed at the South Whitley Public Library, Warsaw Alley Gallery and at an art show at the Lilly

Center over the summer. The artwork will also be published in an art magazine created by the Lilly Center.

The Lilly Center Art Contest is an extension of the award-winning educational programs at the

Lilly Center that create more than 10,000 student connections each year. Through hands-on learning, both in the classroom and outdoors, kindergarten through 12thgrade students increase their water literacy to ensure enjoyment of

local lakes for generations to come.

To learn more about how to enter the art contest and to see all contest rules, visit lakes.grace. edu/education/art-contest.

Stone’s Trace Tavern Spring Hearthside Dinner

The historic Stone’s Trace Tavern will host an authentic 19th-century dinner at 6 p.m. Saturday, April 25. The Spring Hearthside Dinner gives guests the chance to step back in time as the Stone family re-enactment group hosts a multicourse meal inspired by mid-1800s recipes. Attendees will enjoy historical interpretation, storytelling and dining in an authentic pioneer-era setting.

Built in 1839 by Richard Stone, the tavern is one of the oldest buildings in Noble County. Originally a wayside inn for early travelers, it later became a private residence and eventually fell into disrepair after years of vacancy. Dedicated members of the Stone’s Trace Historical Society restored the building in 1964–65 using donated furnishings, materials and labor.

Guests should arrive by 5:45 p.m. for a 6 p.m. dinner. The meal, lasting approximately two hours, includes spiced apples with cream, sippets with jam, charcuterie, hearth rolls and butter, ragout bouillon, pan-fried fish, mint cherry ice, dressed chicken breast with herb-buttered mushrooms and roasted carrots, blackberry fool, coffee and tea and assorted berries, nuts and cheese.

Seating is limited to 20 guests and reservations are required. The cost is $50 per person. Payment and reservation confirmation are due by March 20. Guests are encouraged but not required to wear period attire from the 1850s or earlier.

For reservations or more information, contact Wendy Howard at (260) 343-1190 or email StonesTraceEvents@gmail.com

B ituary

Warren Sloan

Warren Sloan, 91, Syracuse, died Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026, at The Waters of Syracuse.

Arrangements are currently pending at Eastlund Funeral Home, Syracuse.

B irths

Truett Creed Ramer

Josh and Diana (Martin) Ramer, Warsaw, are the parents of a son, Truett Creed, born at 3:08 p.m. Feb. 15, 2026, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 8 pounds, 11 ounces, and was 21 inches long.

Maternal grandparents are Marv and Verna Martin. Paternal grandparents are Glen and Carol Ramer.

Truett joins four siblings: Vincent, Myesha, Isla and Israel.

Grace College faculty recital Feb. 27

The Grace College and The Village at Winona Festival of Music will host its eighth annual Worship Arts Faculty Recital at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, at Winona Lake Grace Church.

The recital is free and open to the public. It will feature a wide array of performances by Grace Worship Arts professors, including a premier reading of English Professor Dr. John Poch’s poem, “Belief at Cherry Creek,” with an accompaniment composed by Worship Arts Professor Dr. Wally Brath.

“In the School of Arts and Humanities at Grace, we see all of our artistic endeavors as a means to care for culture and point people to the Creator,” said Dr. Kim Reiff, dean of the School of Arts and Humanities. “When someone reads a poem, like Dr. Poch’s, or hears a musical composition, like Dr. Brath’s, and feels that it’s beautiful, there is an opportunity to give the glory to God. It’s a blessing to see our faculty strive to do this collaboratively and share it not only in the classroom but with the community.”

“Belief at Cherry Creek” was one of the first poems Poch wrote after moving to Indiana from West Texas, where there is little to no moving water for hundreds of miles. The ability to walk a few hundred yards from his house and stand by a clear, flowing creek that feeds a large, beautiful lake was a wonder to him, inspiring him to put pen to paper.

“Additionally, I had a new nature all about me,” said Poch. “I found myself dropped into a Christian

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with an accompaniment composed by Worship Arts Professor Dr. Wally Brath. Photo provided. workplace at Grace College, where people love me and encourage my faith, and this was a beauty I had never known was possible.”

Not surprisingly, Brath was one of those people.

“John and I enjoyed conversations around poetry and music, encouraging one another in our respective gifts,” said Brath. “I was deeply moved by John’s poem and immediately began imagining a musical soundscape that comple-

mented the prosody.”

While both professors have partnered with other artists over the years, neither has collaborated in this way. Poch, who has often worked with visual artists, said collaborating with a musician is “undiscovered territory.”

In addition to “Belief at Cherry Creek,” the concert will feature classical, jazz and musical theatre selections for solo and small group ensembles performed by various

For more Festival of Music Events, visit grace.edu/about/community/musicfestival. Learn more about Grace’s School of Arts and Humanities at grace.edu/academics/academic-schools-departments/ school-of-arts-and-humanities.

Creighton painting selected for showcase

Local artist Steve Creighton has been notified by the American Impressionist Society that one of his paintings has been juried into its national 10th Annual Impressions: Small Works Showcase.

His painting, “Floral with Foley Vase,” will be displayed at the J. Petter Galleries in Douglas, Mich., May 1-30.

The jury considered more than 1,760 entries for the show, and Creighton’s painting is one of just four selected by Indiana artists.

The exhibition will feature 171 artworks created by impressionist artists from around the nation.

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Creighton grew up near Warsaw and majored in art and business at Valparaiso University. He is a signature member of Oil Painters of America, the National Oil and Acrylic Painters’ Society, and Hoosier Salon. He enjoys the challenge of national and international competitions.

Creighton’s still-life and landscape oil paintings have won awards and have been displayed in major galleries throughout the United States.

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The James R. Ross Fine Art Gallery in Indianapolis offers his paintings for sale, and his works are held by collectors across the country.

His studio is located in Warsaw.

Public invited to Friends Of The Trail

The  Kosciusko County Parks and Recreation Board and the Kosciusko Friends of the Trails invite the public to an informational meeting 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at the City-County Athletic Complex.

They want the public to hear about the plans about proposed improvements to the Chinworth Bridge Historic Trailhead park,

ask the community for input, and share ways individuals can get involved as stewards. For more information on the meeting, contact Kosciusko County Parks and Recreation Board President Troy Turley at (574) 303-7446, or Kosciusko County Friends of the Trails Steven Foegley at (574) 2655294.

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 Bourbon — Elijah Hernandez, Hannah Snyder

Claypool — Jaden Owens Leesburg — Anna Allen, Adaline Haynes

Milford — Gracelyn Hills, Leo Wrage

Nappanee — Montana Green, Sierra Knight

North Manchester — Calvin Brown, Ayla Cashdollar, Isabella

Court News

Small Claims

The following small claims have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Stucky Lauer & Young LLP v. Alexis Casasola (Pantaleon), $1,955.34; Hanna J. Thompson, $628.61

AAA Acceptance Corp. v. Randall Chupp, $3,415.71; v. Allison Cook, $6,835.74; v. Geramy Feather, $2,621.74; v. Justin Hull, $2,616.83; v. Matthew Kinion, $5,094.74; v. Jesus Sanchez, $4,225.84; v. Autumn Smith, $4,267.74; v. Brittany Smith, $3,251.83; v. Kailee Stevens, $1,404.74

General Audit Corp. v. Gerardo Davila, $938.83; v. Mark S. Klosowski, $954.70; v. Kyle Taylor, $1,122.49 Warsaw Health System LLC, d/b/a Kosciusko Community Hospital v. Holly Hummitch, $3,596.41; v. Damon Stapleton, $936.59; Theo Timmerman, $1,726.65

Snow & Sauerteig LLP v. Erin Mosier, $2,699.83; v. Abigail Reeser, $3,253.06; v. Justin Wentz, $2,584.89 Hollar Dental Group v. Brytanny Ramos, $944.54

Civil Collections

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

Ceteris Portfolio Services LLC, a/a/o Gateway Financial Solutions v. Charles Bach, $14,289.65

Capital One NA, successor by merger to Discover Bank v. James R. Boose, $9,708.15

Midland Credit Management Inc. v. Heather Chizum, $15,172.07; v. Catherine A. Gomez, $1,876.39; v. Holly Heller, $1,420.41; v. Chanque Jones, $905.07; v. Chiquita M. Lane, $1,096.64; v. Donna Miller, $8,065.46

Jaimee Suissi, $2,278.17

Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. Kimberly Courson, $1,980.79; v. Michael Myers, $1,041.88

Interra Credit Union v. Rushell Defries, $6,847.56

Capital One NA v. Larry L. Fisher, $3,671.71; v. Dawn Weed, $5,729.22

JP Morgan Chase Bank NA v. Lindsey Hardesty, $14,615.76

LVNV Funding LLC v. Shawn Harris, $1,294.93; v. Timothy J. Jansma, $13,971.46

Regional Acceptance Corp. v. Sam Hecht, $12,837.44

Marlette Funding GrantorTrust 2021-2 v. Bert Kabana, $10,435.01

Etna Green MHP LLC v. Travis Ludwig, $12,995

Finwise Bank v. Todd Marchlewicz,

Corgan, Ava Egolf, Lydia Greer, Milo Hupp, Gracie Lauer, Ty MacAtee, Emilee Manns, Marissa McLean, Logan Penrod, Ashley Pierce, Megan Pierce, Frances Schannep, Hadley Schannep, Gabrielle Simmers, London Spangle, Chloe Steele

Pierceton — Brooke Schroeder, Cassidy Skinner

Silver Lake — Aymia Miller, Sean Reiley Pega, Alexander Trusty Warsaw — Abigail Oliver, Adrianna Osbeck, Vanesa Perez-Cabrera, Vanellyz Vazquez Texidor Winona Lake — Devin Dawson

Yeager Funeral Home in Ligonier invites public to March 1 open house

Yeager Funeral Home is inviting the community to an open house set for Sunday, March 1.

The event will take place from 2-5 p.m. at Yeager Funeral Home, 1589 Lincolnway S., Ligonier. The

funeral home is located just south of the intersection of US 6 and US 33 in Ligonier.

Residents are welcome to visit the funeral home, take a walk-through tour and meet

$2,114.09

Rockhill Pinnick LLP v. George Rans, $1,968.76

Nationwide Acceptance SPV I LLC v. Joshua D. Richardson, $9,232.48 CommunityWide Federal Credit Union v. Karagen E. Simpson, $7,581.12

TD Bank USA NA v. Amy A. Stansbery, $789.35

Mortgage Foreclosures

The following mortgage foreclosures have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Freedom Mortgage Corp. v. Eldon R. Long, $226,182.15

Mortgage Research Center LLC d/b/a Veterans United Home Loans, a Missouri Limit v. Antonio Medina Leyva, Maria Del Carmen Medina Leyva, $174,591.75 Evictions

The following eviction has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: M&M Rental Property Management v. Athena and Gene Boes III, $4,400 Plenaries

The following plenaries have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court I, Judge Karin McGrath presiding: Kosciusko County Board of Zoning Appeals, Kosciusko County Area Planning Commission v. Michael Klarke, $64,700 Morgedy LLC v. MWJW Properties LLC v. $376,933.22

Superior Court III

The following fines and costs for infractions have been assessed in Kos-

Syracuse native

Continued from page 7

50 CMPCs in the state of Indiana.

After founding and running her own business, Tait made the deliberate decision to step away, not because it was easy, but because she saw a bigger need. That decision led her to build and lead the Peak Performance Program at Parkview Sports Medicine, where she works alongside medical professionals to integrate mental performance into injury recovery, leadership development, and sustainable performance.

In addition to her work in mental performance, Tait and her husband own and operate Fort Fitness in Fort Wayne, where they help individuals build

ciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Speeding - Alisha S. Rushing, Milford, $164.50; Michael A. Guedea, Warsaw, $164.50; Sarah J. Ellis, Warsaw, $164.50; Miriam L. Lopez, Warsaw, $164.50; Keagan S. VanCuren, Leesburg, $164.50; Pauline Uribe, Warsaw, $164.50; Eric G. Prezbindowski, Leesburg, $164.50; Allie A. Thompson, Warsaw, $164.50; Foster A. Ashby, Warsaw, $164.50; Braxton C. Huntley, Leesburg, $164.50; Logan L. Bontrager, Milford, $164.50; Sebastian Cano, Warsaw, $164.50; Maria J. Hernandez Arana, Pierceton, $164.50; Juan M. Tecuatl Meyo, Warsaw, $164.50; Rhys J. Hill, Silver Lake, $164.50; Zackaryah S. Kimble, Warsaw, $164.50; Myles M. Lauber, North Webster, $164.50; Madison R. Gibson, Leesburg, $164.50; Scarlett L. Stapleton, Warsaw, $164.50

Failure of occupant to use a safety belt - Bethany J. Walters, Mishawaka, $25; Scott P. Johnston, Claypool, $25; Jessica L. Sherow, Warsaw, $25; Dustin J. Swindle, Leesburg, $25; Joel E. Updike, Huntington, $25; Kelsey L. Hakeos, Warsaw, $25; Bruce L. Bowen, Culver, $25; Hollie L. True, Warsaw, $25; Anthony J. Fitzgerald, Warsaw, $25; Shane R. Checketts, Warsaw, $25

Speeding, no valid driver’s license - Jeffrey N. Rector, Warsaw, $189.50; Juan Guerra Gomez, Warsaw, $189.50

Failure of occupant to use a safety belt, failure to register - Joel S. Franklin, Winona Lake, $189.50

Failure to register - Kaitlyn M. Warren, Warsaw, $164.50; Isaiah J. Stockman, Winona Lake, $164.50; Scott R. Atwood, Fort Wayne, $164.50;

strength, confidence, and consistency, inside and outside the gym. This hands-on work keeps her grounded in the daily realities women face as they balance ambition, health, family, and identity.

Tait is the creator of the philosophy “Through Adversity Is Treasure,” a message rooted in real life, not perfection. She is known for her candid,no-nonsense style and for creating experiences that challenge people to face fear honestly, understand their minds, and make braver decisions. Returning home to share this work is personal for Tait. This room represents where her story began and why the work matters.

Dorvan J. Bontrager, LaGrange, $164.50; Charles J. Haywood, Syracuse, $164.50

Disregarding stop sign - Andrew C. Windbigler, Warsaw, $164.50

Holding or using a telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle - Kelly K. Riddle, Warsaw, $164.50; David I. Woodliff, Roann, $164.50; Christine L. Fischer, Syracuse, $164.50; Paul A. Czerniak, Danville, Ill., $164.50

Learner’s permit violation - Exallany E. Perez, Warsaw, $164.50

Littering, failure of occupant to use a safety belt - Johnna K. Rainwater, Warsaw, $264

Boat equipment violation/float device per person - Skyler A. Harris, Pierceton, $164

Marriage Licenses

The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court

Melissa Boggs: Fountain-Burke

Trista M. Fountain, 36, Warsaw, and David Anthony Burke, 38, Warsaw

STATE OF INDIANA COUNTY OF KOSCIUSKO SS: IN THE KOSCIUSKO SUPERIOR COURT 1 2026 TERM CAUSE NO. 43D01-2510-AD-26

IN RE: THE ADOPTION OF JESLYN SUE ANN BOYD A minor child, DANA RINER AND RANDEL RINER Petitioners.

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION

NICHOLAS BOYD is hereby notified that on the 23rd day of October, 2025, Dana Riner and Randel Riner filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Kosciusko Superior Court I of Kosciusko County, State of Indiana, a Petition for Adoption. On December 11, 2025, the Petitioners also filed its Praecipe for Summons along with supporting affidavit showing that diligent search has been made and that Nicholas Boyd cannot be found.

NICHOLAS BOYD is further notified that unless he responds within thirty (30) days after the last publication of notice of this action, said Petition will be heard and determined by the Court in their absence.

Melissa Boggs, Clerk Kosciusko Superior Court I Alexander L. Hoover, #30679-50 Attorney for Petitioners 315 West Jefferson Street Plymouth, Indiana 46563

staff members. Light snacks and refreshments will be served.

For more information, visit the website at yeagerfuneralhome. com or call (260) 894-4900.

Huston-Gilby

Brittany Lynn Huston, 25, Warsaw, and Dashaun Oniko Gilby, 28, Warsaw Arafat-Satovski

Waseem Hani Arafat, 43, Warsaw, and Oleksandra Satovski, 25, Warsaw

Marriage Dissolutions

The following couples have filed for a marriage dissolution in Kosciusko Superior Courts I or IV: Mann - Sara Mann, Warsaw, and William Mann, Warsaw. They were married June 20, 2016, and separated May 1, 2025. Two minor child(ren).

Walters - Daniel Walters, Warsaw, and LaTisha Walters, Warsaw. They were married June 5, 2016, and separated Jan. 30, 2026. No minor child(ren).

McNees - Pheba McNees, Warsaw, and Douglas McNees, Warsaw. They were married Feb. 12, 2005; no separation date given. No minor child(ren).

Ehinger - Ann N. Ehinger, Kosciusko County, and Corey J. Ehinger, Winona Lake. They were married July 23, 2011, and separated Dec. 24, 2025. No minor child(ren).

STATE OF INDIANA COUNTY OF KOSCIUSKO SS: IN THE KOSCIUSKO SUPERIOR COURT 1 2026 TERM CAUSE NO. 43D01-2510-AD-25

IN RE: THE ADOPTION OF BRYER ALLEN J. COOK A minor child, DANA RINER AND RANDEL RINER Petitioners.

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION

DANNY RAY COOK JR. is hereby notified that on the 23rd day of October, 2025, Dana Riner and Randel Riner filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Kosciusko Superior Court I of Kosciusko County, State of Indiana, a Petition for Adoption. On December 11, 2025, the Petitioners also filed its Praecipe for Summons along with supporting affidavit showing that diligent search has been made and that Danny Ray Cook Jr. cannot be found. DANNY RAY COOK JR. is further notified that unless he responds within thirty (30) days after the last publication of notice of this action, said Petition will be heard and determined by the Court in their absence.

Melissa Boggs, Clerk Kosciusko Superior Court I Alexander L. Hoover, #30679-50

Attorney for Petitioners 315 West Jefferson Street Plymouth, Indiana 46563

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Phone Bid

Real Estate Auction

Bidding open until 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 5. Property located ¾ mile east of US 33 in Goshen

on CR 38 to CR 31, south ¾ mile (3/4 mile south of AllPro Gas) at 65818 CR 31, Goshen. Public inspections 3:30-5:30 Tuesdays. For bidding and bidding updates, call

(260) 499-0216 or (260) 499-0093. Earl And Loretta Yoder Auction

8 a.m. Saturday, March 7. Located 2 miles south of Topeka on

600W to 500S, then west 3 1/2 miles to 9520 W. 500S, Millersburg. Real Estate Auction 10 a.m. Saturday, March 7.

Living on the Land is next Conservation and Coffee

Spring is the perfect time to reconnect with the land we call home, and the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation’s March Conservation & Coffee gathering offers a welcoming place to start.

Join WACF from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, March 7, at the WACF Levinson-LaBrosse Education Center, 11586 SR 13, Syracuse, for a free morning of learning, conversation and community - breakfast included.

This month’s theme, “Living on the Land - How to Take Care of It,” brings together two professionals who work daily to protect and restore natural spaces.

Jody Overmyer of the Marshall County Soil and Water Conservation District will share practical insights on the power of native plants - how they strengthen soil, support wildlife and help homeowners create resilient landscapes.

Cecilie Keenan of Kosciusko Wetland and Woodland Invasive Plants will follow with a discussion on invasive species, how they spread and what individuals can do to stop them.

ICE BOATING Bob Fanning presented information on ice boating at the February Conservation & Coffee event, which focused on “All Things Ice.” The March gathering will highlight “Living on the Land” on Saturday, March 7. Photo provided by Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation.

ICE RESCUE Turkey Creek Fire Territory Fire Chief Quinn Hunter presented information on ice rescue at the February Conservation & Coffee event. He is shown with a rescue ring used by firefighters. Photo provided by Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation. Whether you’re a gardener, a lakeshore resident or simply someone who enjoys the outdoors, this free event offers practical ways to

Open house 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 28. Located at 218 N. Main. St., Topeka.

Middlebury Phone Bid

Real Estate Auction

Bidding open until 3 p.m. Monday, March 9. Property located 4 miles west of SR 13 on 20 in Middlebury to CR 31, then north 1 mile to CR 14, then west 1/4 miles to 16270 CR 14, Goshen. For bidding and bidding updates, call (574) 642-0444.

Leroy And Mary Eash Auction

3:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 11. Located at 11515 N. 500W, Ligonier.

Online Commercial

Real Estate Auction

Bidding open until 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 11. Property located at 1116 S. Harkless Drive, Syracuse. Tract 1: Tavern and special events vessel, 250 ft. Lake Wawasee frontage. Tract 2: .89acre gravel lot. Metzger Property Service, metzgerauction.com. New Paris Phone Bid Real Estate Auction

Bidding open until 4 p.m. Monday, March 16. Property located from SR 15 in New Paris west on CR 142, 3 miles to CR 17, then south 1/2 mile to 68015 CR 17, New Paris. For bidding and bidding updates, call (574) 642-0444.

Auctions

The Friends of the Library will host its Books and Cookies sale

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, March 6 and 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, March 7 at the Warsaw Community Public Library.

care for the land beneath your feet. Come for the coffee, stay for the conversation and leave inspired to make a difference this spring.

UTILITY CLERK

Friends of the Library Book and Cookie Sale

BOOK BASKET

There will be a silent auction with book baskets themed around specific books or activities. Some baskets include crockpot cooking - the basket itself contains a crockpot - beer making, pampering, quilts, tea, decorating small spaces and baskets based on the children’s author Mo Willems, among others.

The Friends of the Library is an organization that raises money to support the library’s needs and special projects.

The organization also runs a bookstore that sells books at low prices in the library from 4-7 p.m. Tuesdays and 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturdays.

Open house on Sidney’s strategic plan

The town of Sidney will host an open house at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, for the community to explain its five-year strategic plan.

The event will be held in the Sidney Fire Station meeting room.

All residents of Sidney are invited to attend. There will be explanations and input from town residents is desired.

The open house is part of the town’s grant agreement with the Kosciusko County Community Foundation for a planned park in Sidney. There will be free food available to the community and information regarding progress on the park.

CLASSIFIEDS

Garage Sales Construction

BONANZA Laurie Voss, left, and Friends of the Library President Peg Burgher show off some of the baskets that will be at the Books and Cookies sale Friday and Saturday, March 6-7 at the Warsaw Community Public Library. Photo provided by Peg Burgher.

Etna Green is looking for a Utility Clerk. It is 30 hours/weekly. Major duties include customer service, data input, utility bill preparation, processing payments, preparation of delinquent notices and disconnections. If interested apply or call 574-858-9321.

Students make ‘Night to Shine’ memorable

Glittery dresses, shiny shoes, and other fancy attire made the night shine as those with special needs danced to their hearts’ content Friday, Feb. 13.

The ninth annual Tim Tebow Foundation “Night to Shine” event was held at Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian Church, and guests were honored even more this year thanks to the Warsaw Area Career Center

Welding and Advanced Manufacturing class, taught by Jeremiah Paseka and the Warsaw Communty High School and Tippecanoe Valley High School Cosmetology school students, instructed by Tina Streby.

The welding class designed and fabricated 45-inch steel letters to spell out “Night to Shine.” Each letter has holes drilled in them so they can be illuminated. The class then painted each letter to make them more aesthetically appealing as well as preventing any rust from forming.

The cosmetology school provided each honored guest with their own glam makeover. Female guests had their hair styled and make up applied by the students of the class and additional volunteers of the event. The services provided by the students added that special touch, so each guest felt fantastic.

The “Night to Shine” committee extends its heart felt gratitude to all who lent a hand to make this a night to remember for each guest in attendance.

NIGHT TO SHINE

These “Night to Shine” letters were made and donated by the Warsaw Community High School welding class. Photo provided by Warsaw Schools.

Students earn top honors in art awards

Students from Warsaw Community High School earned outstanding recognition in the 2026 regional Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, one of the nation’s most prestigious programs honoring creative teens.

This year’s exhibition, hosted by the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, features work from 635 students across 87 schools in northern Indiana and northeast Ohio.

WCHS art students brought home 19 individual awards along with a Silver Key in the Senior Portfolio category, marking one of the school’s most successful years in the competition.

National-level distinction

Senior Kora Rockwell received both a Gold Key and a prestigious American Visions Award nomination for her sculpture “Murky” (ceramics and glass). The honor places her artwork among the five best pieces in the entire region out of 2,270 entries. American Visions nominees advance to national adjudication and scholarship consideration through the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers in New York.

Gold Key Award recipients

• Armando Arizmendi

• Anya Baumgardner

• Oren Henn

• Makenna Moore

• Eleanor Nightingale

• Izabella Patrick

• Kora Rockwell

• Michael Schenck

• Kyra Schmidt

• Makenna Schmidt

Silver Key Award recipients

• Piper Hagan

• Stephanie Malagon

• Izabella Patrick

• Lillian Price

A CLEAR WINNER “Murky,” a sculpture by Warsaw Community High School student Kora Rockwell, earned the senior a Gold Key as well as an American Visions Award in Scholastic arts competition. Photo provided by Warsaw Community Schools.

Honorable Mention recipients

• Anya Baumgardner

• Patryck Bocianski

• Talen Chivington

• Emily Ramsey

• Jeam Torres Vazquez

Senior Portfolio honor

Senior Jeam Torres Vazquez

earned a Silver Key for his AP Studio Art portfolio, an impressive distinction in one of the competition’s most selective categories.

Regional Gold Key winners now advance to national judging, where students compete for medals and more than $450,000 in scholarships. The exhibition at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art runs Feb. 14 to April 12, with an open house celebration on Feb. 15.

“This level of recognition speaks to the talent, dedication and creative voice of our students,” Principal Troy Akers said. “We are incredibly proud of how they represent Warsaw and the impact they are making through their art.”