The Paper of Miami County - Jan. 25, 2023

Peru native honors fallen, protects U.S. Borders

By Amanda Redman aredman@thepaperofmiami.com

The uniform must be crisp.

Brass buttons and patent leather shoes must be shiny.

The movement must be precise when U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Honor Guard performs ceremony at the funeral of a fallen member.

It’s a calling Honor Guard members answer in honor of fallen law enforcement personnel and their families, explained Peru native Brittainy Wallick Spitznagle, Agriculture Specialist and Agriculture Detector Canine Handler at CBP Chicago Field Office.

Spitznagle joined the elite team upon graduation from CBP National Honor Guard Academy in December.

“I did my best to prepare physically for a great deal of marching, drill and ceremony practices as well as prepare mentally for a very rigid and challenging team of cadre,” Spitznagle said. “With the guidance of current Chicago Field Office Honor Guard members, I have been training and preparing for this academy for the past 2 years.”

Spitznagle is one of only two agriculture specialists in the history of Chicago Field Office to graduate the academy at DavisMonthan Air Force Base in Tucson, AZ.

The two-week course began with 18 recruits with only eight successfully graduating.

“The Honor Guard device is one of the top two most difficult devices to earn with CBP,” said Spitznagle, a Peru High School graduate now living in northern Illinois with her husband, William.

Spitznagle is no stranger to precise movements. The daughter of Michelle and Jim Boswell, and Randy and Debi Wallick, she is a former circus Peru Amateur Circus performer and trainer whose favorite act was High Wire. Michelle Boswell is the former editor and current assistant general manager of The Paper of Miami County.

“Brittainy has really worked hard and pushed the envelope in her field,” said Michelle Boswell. “She always strives to be the best…to stand out from the rest. I’m very proud of her.”

Spitznagle attended multiple academies for CBP but Honor Guard Academy was by far the most difficult, she said.

“It was an exhausting period of daily uniform inspections, drill and ceremony practice and constant reminders of why we have chosen to answer the calling of Honor Guard members; to honor fallen law enforcement personnel and their families,” Spitznagle said.

Following a full day of marching, performing various drill, and ceremony practices, Spitznagle who was designated as Squad Leader 1, returned to her lodge and began uniform maintenance for

the following day. She would spend two to four hours on her own gear then help her cadre to ensure all uniform gear was spotless and ready for inspection.

“Every morning we started out with an intensive uniform inspection with several cadre members picking apart our uniforms throughout the platoon,” Spitznagle said. “Compliments were rare and for every compliment you got, if you got one, they would find what felt like 10 more things wrong with your uniform that day.”

The final test was a mock line-of-duty death funeral with presentation of Colors, casket-carrying, rifle party, folding and presentation of the U.S. Flag, then retrieval of Colors.

This test was especially dear to Spitznagle’s heart as it was near the oneyear passing date of her friend and canine handler mentor, Jeff DelaCruz. A 21-year CBP Port of Chicago Canine Enforcement Officer, DelaCruz passed Dec. 23, 2021, at age 50 following complications of COVID, leaving behind a wife and two daughters.

“The number one mission of our Honor Guard is to honor our fallen fellow law enforcement personnel,” Spitznagle explained. “Jeff and his family stayed in the forefront of my mind during the entire academy; remembering Jeff and honoring his family was the biggest driving force that helped to push me through the honor guard academy.”

While Jeff was ill, his CBP co-workers started a GoFundMe, and other fundraising efforts to help with medical expenses.

“Our K9 family is just that, a family. If someone falls down, everyone rallies around them to help them up,” Spitznagle said. “Jeff’s passing was difficult for everyone who knew him. He was a great friend, a mentor to me when I joined the K9 team and it’s been hard not having him here.”

Becoming a CBP Agriculture Specialist initially required Spitznagle to attend CBP Field Operations Academy in Brunswick, Georgia. She was designated Squad Leader 1, graduating in August 2017 a Distinguished Student with a variety of skills including law enforcement professionalism, regulatory decision-making, international trade and import requirements, as well as

As Squad Leader 1, Brittainy Wallick Spitznagle, left, leads her cadre formation at U.S. Customs and Border Control National Honor Guard Academy in Tucson, Arizona. Photo provided by Brittainy Wallick Spitznagle

insect identification.

Handling canines required more training at National Detector Dog Training Center in Newnan, GA. Spitznagle completed an 8week program working with Beagles in various passenger-accessible environments to become part of the Beagle Brigade that inspects passengers and luggage.

Later, she underwent a 10-week program to work with Labradors in cargo areas including conveyor belts, vehicles,

cargo pallets and luggage.

“You want to make sure you are setting both yourself and that dog up for success in your specific working environment,” Spitznagle explained.

Spitznagle’s workday begins with picking up her partner Cici, a chocolate lab, who will help her inspect international cargo and inbound international mail at O’Hare International Airport.

The pair will find several prohibited items each shift such as fruit, propagative plants, meat, vegetables or endan-

gered wildlife products like ivory. When Cici detects some-

thing, Spitznagle determines the country of origin, and if a special

permit or veterinary certificate is required.

“Most travelers don’t realize how detrimental something as a simple mango or orange brought into the country from abroad can actually be,” Spitznagle said. “These kinds of items can easily bring pests like seed weevils, Mediterranean Fruit Fly among countless other pests and diseases with them that if established here in the U.S. will cost farmers and consumers millions upon millions of dollars.”

The best part about her job is

that no two days are ever the same, Spitznagle said. She also enjoys working with the canines.

“I have always had a love for dogs,” Spitznagle said. “I have had a pet dog in my home since I was a little kid and thought it would be great to find a way to work with dogs professionally someday.

Thankfully U.S. Customs and Border Protection has an excellent K9 program both for Officers and for Agriculture Specialists, like myself.”

Spitznagle holds a bachelor’s degree in Natural

Resources and Environmental Management from Ball State University. In 2012, she embarked on her law enforcement career as a corrections officer at Miami Correctional Facility, Bunker Hill, later becoming a Miami County Sheriff’s Office deputy jailer.

“I knew I wanted the kind of job that would allow me to utilize my degree background and I was fortunate enough to find a position working for U.S. Customs and Border Protection as an Agriculture Specialist,” Spitznagle said.

p.m.

Brittainy Wallick Spitznagle, U.S. Customers and Border Protection agriculture specialist and her detector dog, Cici, inspect a package at O’Hare International Airport..Photo provided by Brittainy Wallick Spitznagle

Brittainy Wallick Spitznagle, U.S. Customers and Border Protection agriculture specialist picks up her detector dog, Cici for work at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago.

Photo provided by Brittainy Wallick Spitznagle

“Most travelers don’t realize how detrimental something as a simple mango or orange brought into the country from abroad can actually be. These kinds of items can easily bring pests like seed weevils, Mediterranean Fruit Fly among countless other pests and diseases with them that if established here in the U.S. will cost farmers and consumers millions upon millions of dollars”

~Brittainy Wallick Spitznagle, Agriculture Specialist, an Agriculture Detector Canine Handler, at U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Chicago Field Office

FUNERAL HOMES

Family Owned & Operated Since Since 1945 and Serving All Faiths

Obituaries

Mary Thelma “Dotsy” Merrill, 95

Mary Thelma “Dotsy” Merrill, 95, passed away Thursday, January 12, 2023 at Aperion Care of Peru.

Mary was born on October 28, 1927 in Pilot, Kentucky to Sherman and Bernice (Townsend) McQuinn. She married Ocie Merrill and he preceded her in death. “Dotsy”, as she was fondly known , enjoyed gardening and spending time outdoors. She was employed at Woolsworth in Logansport and a member of the Christian Pilgrim Church. She is survived by a sister, Wilma Walker, of Peru, Indiana and nieces; Elizabeth McQuinn of Logansport, Indiana, Joan McQuinn, of Walton, Indiana, Lisa Chiavola of Logansport, Indiana, nephew, Wes McQuinn of Ohio, great nieces; Ashley Chiavola, Jocelyn Chiavola, Kendall Hlebasko, and great nephews; Jordan Chiavola, Quinton McQuinn, and Lee Edwards. Mary was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and brother, Aubrey Fay McQuinn. Visitation was Thursday, January 19, 2023 at FlowersLeedy Funeral Home. A funeral service immediately followed with Pastor Paul Lane officiating. Burial took place at Ever-Rest Memorial Park Cemetery in Logansport, Indiana. Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Friends and family may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.

Beverly Joe Carpenter, 83, Rochester, Indiana, passed away at 4:45 a.m. on Saturday, January 14, 2023, at her residence.

Born on June 8, 1939, in Rochester, Indiana, she was the daughter of Harold Ray and Florence W. “Betty” (Powers) Price. On January 23, 1969, in Rochester, Indiana, she was married to Kent Eugene Carpenter, and he preceded her in death on December 2, 1987.

She was retired from Hart Schaffner & Marx in Rochester, Indiana. She loved line-dancing, and for many years, taught classes around the area.

Survivors include three children, Kellie Jo Gillenwater, Rick Dawson Carpenter, and Kent Eugene Carpenter, Jr.; five grandchildren, Kimberly, Joshua, Shannay, Taylor, and Jaden; three step-grandchildren, Ashley, Rachelle, and Eugene; and one sister, Bea Stephenson.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and one sister, Barbara Jones.

There will be no services or visitation. In honoring Beverly’s wishes, cremation arrangements have been handled by McClain Funeral Home, Denver, Indiana. Condolences may be sent online at www.mcclainfh.com.

James “Jim” Rairigh passed away Friday, January 13, 2023.

Born July 15, 1967, Jim was the son of William and Frances (Pasquale) Rairigh, who preceded him in death.

He married Denise K. Sholty on January 3, 1987. Together they raised three children, Kayla C. (Rairigh) Lockwood (James) of Sanford, FL, Brandon J. Rairigh, who preceded him in death, and Tayler L. Rairigh of Peru, IN. He was also loved by three grandchildren.

Jim was a 1985 graduate of North Miami High School where he enjoyed choir and band. He entered the United States Air Force in 1986 and served 11 years. Jim loved spending time with his family and friends.

In addition to his wife, daughters, and 3 grandchildren, Jim is survived by one sister, Christina M. (Rairigh) Miltenberger (Rex) of South Bend, IN, and two brothers, Robert W. Rairigh (Kathy) of Milford, IN, and Timothy J. Rairigh (Debbie) of Tehachapi, CA, and several nieces and nephews.

A private burial will take place at Marion National Cemetery with Pastor Rod Correll officiating.

A memorial service will be held at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, you may make memorial donations to the family through Zion Chapel Church at 915 S Broadway, Peru, IN 46970.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Friends and family may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.

Margaret S. Robillard, 90, of Muncie, passed away at 9:15 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2023, at her residence. She was born in Bath, England, Aug. 30, 1932.

Margaret married John R. Robillard in Schenectady, New York, July 5, 1958, and he preceded her in death Nov. 11, 2001.

Margaret was a member of the St. Charles Catholic Church and also at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Muncie. She enjoyed reading and spending time with her family, especially spoiling the grandchildren.

Surviving are her children Mark (Tammy) Robillard of Canton, GA, David (Maggie) Robillard of Richmond, KY, Ann (Tim) Robacker of Belleville, IL and Steven Robillard and Becky of Muncie, IN; grandchildren Jon Mark Robillard, Tyler Robillard, Lauren Robillard, Casey Robacker, Jay Robillard, Alec Robillard and Parker Robillard and a brother George Laycock.

A Catholic Mass celebrating the life of Margaret S. Robillard was held Friday, Jan. 20, 2023, at St. Charles Catholic Church, 58 W. 5th St., Peru, IN. Burial followed at St. Charles Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made through the EikenberryEddy Funeral Home to the St. Charles Catholic Church.

Diana Jean Conrad, 73, Peru, Indiana, (rural Twelve Mile), passed away at 8:53 a.m. on Monday, January 16, 2023, at Blair Ridge Health Campus, Peru.

Born November 30, 1949, in Peru, Indiana, she was the daughter of Robert A. and Carolyn R. (Conner) Conrad.

Diana was a graduate of Caston High School in 1967. She received a B.S. from Ball State University before attending IUPUI where she received a B.A. in Communications Studies while minoring in Spanish and Creative Writing. She worked as a Medical Technologist, ASCP Registered, for South Bend Medical Foundation at Memorial Hospital in Logansport. She was a member of Corinth Brethren Church near Twelve Mile, and hosted many Bible studies in her home.

Survivors include two brothers, John Robert Conrad, Brooklyn Center, MN; and Matthew (Pat) Conrad, LaPorte, Indiana; one aunt, Janet Dalman, Holland, Michigan; several cousins and friends, and her church family from Corinth Brethren Church, Twelve Mile.

Diana was able to stay in her home until her health declined too much over the last month. She was blessed and appreciative to have her close friends, church family, and Guardian Angel Hospice to help care for her in her final days.

Funeral services were Thursday, January 19, 2023, at McClain Funeral Home, Denver, Indiana, with Pastor Cole Westwood officiating. The service was live-streamed at www.mcclainfh.com/livestream. Burial followed in Corinth Cemetery, Twelve Mile.

McClain Funeral Home, Denver, Indiana, has been entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.mcclainfh.com.

James “Jim” Rairigh, 55

Beverly Joe Carpenter, 83

Diana Jean Conrad, 73,

Margaret S. Robillard, 90,

Dennis E. Hughes, 73, of Peru, Indiana, passed away Wednesday, January 18, 2023, at his residence. Born on July 8, 1949, in Tecumseh, Michigan, Dennis was the second child of Haskell and Helen Hughes.

He married his wife, Jo Ann, on November 1, 2004.

Dennis served in the United States Air Force for 33 years. He enjoyed traveling the world and meeting people throughout his years in the military. He retired from the Air Force as a Senior Master Sergeant on August 1, 2008.

Frequenting car shows was one way Dennis enjoyed spending his weekends. He was often joined by his wife and grandson. He was a huge Wolverine fan and loved rooting for the University of Michigan. He looked forward to evenings by the campfire with family and regularly attended athletic events for his grandchildren.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Jo Ann Hughes, of Peru, sister Karen Messersmith of Florida, brother Cy Hughes of Michigan, son Christopher Hughes of South Carolina, and grandchildren Lily and Tyler Hughes. He also had the privilege of embracing the love of family members Christy (Chris) McGuire, grandchildren Trey Christensen (Jamie Rutledge), Masyn, Avery, Regan, Kynle & Kaden McGuire, and great-grandchild Jason J. Christensen. He was proceeded in death by his parents, his sister Jo Ann Harwick, family members Jason E. Christensen and his namesake great-grandson Everett Christensen.

A “Celebration of Life” visitation was held Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at the Mt. Hope Cemetery Chapel, 411 N. Grant Street, Peru, Indiana. Military honors were provided by Peru VFW.

His grandchildren were the light of his life, so in lieu of flowers and in loving memory of Dennis, please reach out and enrich a child’s life, even with a small act of kindness.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Friends and family may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.

Iona Elizabeth Weeks, 94

Iona Elizabeth Weeks passed away Thursday, January 19, 2023 at The Waters of Peru.

Liz was born in Kokomo, Indiana on March 15, 1928 to Bill and Lorene Nash. She married Donald Weeks on July 19, 1946. Donald and Liz built and owned the Gateway Drive by the Mississinewa Reservoir. They operated the business for many years. They also had Rustic Creations and attended many craft shows where Liz sold many paintings and also painted sawblades. They enjoyed spending many winters in Texas.

Liz is survived by two sons, Donald (Sharon) Weeks and Daniel (Roxanne) Weeks and daughter-in-law, Nancy Weeks, eight grandchildren: Chris (Karyn) Weeks, Eric (Tonya) Weeks, Aaron (Michelle) Weeks, David (Sheila) Weeks, Leslie Murphy, Angie (Ramon) Crews, Abby (Smitty) Tocorzic, Daniel (Christine) Weeks, eighteen greatgrandchildren, and three great- great- grandchildren, sister-in-law, Dolly Garvin, niece, Tammy Everroad, and nephew, Mike Nash.

Liz is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and son, David Weeks, one great- grandchild, Ryan Weeks, and brother, Edgar Nash.

Graveside services were held at Rankin Cemetery on Monday, January 23, 2023 with Father Kyle Neterer officiating.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Friends and family may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.

If a loved one has passed away, let your funeral home know you would like to have it published in The Paper of Miami County. We make it affordable to honor the ones you love.

Roman Oleh Kmicikewycz, 75, of Peru, Indiana, passed away surrounded by his three children and his cat, Pete, January 19, 2023. He was born on April 22, 1947, in Landeck, Austria to the late, Roman A. and Olena (Lukijanowycz) Kmicikewycz during World War 2. Prior to the war, the Kmicikewycz family lived in Lviv, Ukraine, but left at the onset of the war. They eventually came to America on the SS Constitution through Ellis Island to New York and then to Chicago where they lived for over 10 years, and finally settling in Peru, Indiana. He was proud of his Ukrainian heritage and loved sharing his family traditions with those around him.

Roman proudly served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He enjoyed attending the annual Howard County Vietnam Veterans Reunion every year in September. That time with his “brothers” sharing in stories, food, camaraderie, laughter, and a few tears meant so much to him. They meant so much to him.

He worked for Delco in Kokomo until his retirement. During his time at Delco he made lifelong friendships that lasted long after his retirement. Those were friendships he cherished until his passing.

One of his greatest passions of work was his pheasant farm, Roman’s Acres. He enjoyed caring for and building his farm with his children especially his son, Roman. Together they traveled to many swap meets and pheasant breeders across the Midwest.

Anyone who knew Roman, knew that he loved being outside, he was always busy taking care of his property, tending to a fire in his firepit while entertaining his close friends and neighbors, and listening to music outside while watching wildlife around him with his favorite dog, Bob, and later, his cat, Pete. He enjoyed woodworking and creating beautiful gifts for his family and friends.

Roman loved to travel and visited numerous countries including his birthplace in Austria. Two of his favorite trips included visiting his daughter, Natalia and her family, when they lived in Australia and traveling with his oldest daughter, Christine, to Denmark.

Roman had a personality bigger than life. He was loud, he was outspoken, but he loved the people in his life whom he called family and friends. He loved to laugh and joke, sometimes at the expense of himself, and he loved making videos and taking pictures to share with others.

What Roman was most proud of was his family. He loved his 3 children and 10 grandchildren with all that he had, and they gave his life purpose. His 10 grandchildren were the light of his world. He enjoyed being their Jajo. He enjoyed hearing them laugh and did anything he could to get a laugh or smile. He enjoyed their annual campouts where they fished, played, explored the woods, and made s’mores. He loved attending their sporting events and school functions. Most of all, he enjoyed time with them taking them for tractor rides, picking up sticks in the woods, pushing them on the swings, and creating memories with them. Every visit with Jajo, advice for life was given to those who were listening. His grandchildren will always be his greatest legacy.

Roman is survived by his daughter, Christine Hendrickson, and husband Matt and their 4 children, Vaughn, Helene, Naomi, and Macy (all of Fort Wayne, IN); his daughter, Natalia Hehir and husband Dave and their 3 children, Mayah, Sheridan, and Emmett (all of Fort Wayne, IN); and his son, Roman A. Kmicikewycz and wife Shae and their 3 children, Bohdan, Roman, and Aleksander (all of .Avon, IN).

He was also preceded in death by his brother, Bohdan Roman Kmicikewycz.

The family will host a celebration of life for him in the spring, his favorite time of year. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a contribution to the Howard County Vietnam Veterans Organization in his memory. To make a contribution, Email: vveterans@aol.com, call 765-628-0297 or visit their website https://Hcvvo.net.

Dennis E. Hughes, 73,

Super-duper Soup!

By Laura Kurella

There are just so many people always looking for a quick fix for losing weight, and better health.

However, in truth the body holds onto excess weight because it is unsure of when the next nutrition or hydration is going to come along.

This, in a nutshell, is the true secret to real, lasting weight loss. Simply consume adequate amounts of fiber and nutrition on a regular schedule, along with adequate amounts of hydration, also on a regular schedule, and the weight will start to come off.

No calorie or carb counting needed. Just nutrients, like I mentioned in last week’s column.

When we consume nutrients and hydration on a regular basis, it sends a signal to our bodies that they can relax and let go of that excess weight and fluid.

Another truth to weight loss is keeping the bowels moving regularly. Bowels can easily add ten pounds to the scale if they are not moving as they should, which makes it important to get fiber in daily as well.

Fiber not only helps to cleanse the digestive tract, and help us feel fuller longer, but it also is the only food good bacteria can eat, so it must be consumed daily to keep our immune systems up and running and, on its toes, too!

Personally, the most nutritious food out there-

kale -benefits by being added into dishes that don’t necessarily make it noticeable. This is why it is perfect for adding to a favorite soup recipe, even if you need to puree it before adding it in. In fact, I often add vegetables I don’t like, but know they are good for me to make soups, letting them cook intact then pureeing them in the end so I don’t have to deal with unpleasant textures.

For example, cabbage or celery may not be something you want to encounter floating in your bowl of soup, but if you puree these in the broth before serving, you won’t know they are there, but will reap the rewards of consuming these health-giving foods.

It’s also a great way to get kids to consume more nutrition. I could never get the little ones to eat a hearty vegetable soup until I pureed it. Not having solids to examine somehow makes it okay to eat.

A chef secret to pulling more flavor out of vegetables is to broil them, giving them a bit of a char, before adding to a soup. Same is true with rice. Toast it in the bottom of a skillet to up its nutty flavor. Be careful not to add any oil or fat to it or you may end up popping it like accidentally did. In truth, it causes a whole new, nutty flavor and more tender texture to emerge, so go for it!

Laura Kurella is an award-winning recipe developer and food colum-

nist who enjoys sharing recipes from her Great Lakes Midwest kitchen. She welcomes your comments at laurakurella@y ahoo.com

Super-nutritious Cabbage Soup

2 large Bermuda (sweet) onions, sliced

3 carrots, sliced 1 bunch of celery, leaves included, sliced

10 ounces mushrooms, sliced 1/2 head garlic, minced

2 green bell peppers, seeded and sliced

half a head of cabbage, sliced kale leaves (optional)

30 ounces tomatoes

2 quarts low sodium chicken or vegetable broth unrefined mineral sea salt, black pepper, to taste

Slice onions then add to a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add oil and stir then slice and add carrots. Cook until onions begin to caramelize then

add sliced celery and mushrooms. Stir well then add minced garlic and sliced peppers. Cook stirring for 3 to 5 minutes then add cabbage and tomatoes. Cover with broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for one hour.

Note: If you would like a spicy soup, add a small amount of curry or cayenne pepper now.

Salt and pepper to taste. Puree, if desired, before serving.

Splendid Butternut Squash Soup

Prep: 10 mins Cook: 15 mins Total: 25 mins Yield: 8 servings

2 tablespoons butter

1 sweet onion, sliced

3 cloves garlic

3 sprigs fresh thyme

1 butternut squash - peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes

2 quarts low sodium chicken stock

1/8 teaspoon ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon ground black pep-

per 1 pinch ground allspice

1/2 teaspoon unrefined mineral sea salt

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt butter. Add onion and cook until softened, about 7 minutes. Add garlic, thyme and cook for about 5 minutes. Add squash, chicken stock, and spices then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until the squash is tender, 10 to 15 minutes.

Remove from heat and pour soup into a blender, filling the pitcher no more than halfway. Hold the lid of the blender in place with a kitchen towel and carefully start the blender using a few quick pulses to get the soup moving before leaving it on to puree. Puree in batches until smooth and pour into a serving bowl. Alternatively, you can use a stick blender and puree the soup in the pot.

Oh-so-creamy Mushroom Soup

Prep: 15 mins; Cook: 1 hr. 20 mins; Total: 1 hr. 35 mins; Yield: 6 servings

1/4 cup unsalted butter

2 pounds sliced fresh mushrooms

1/2 teaspoon unrefined mineral sea salt

1 large sweet onion, diced 1?1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

6 sprigs fresh thyme

2 cloves garlic, peeled

4 cups chicken broth

1 cup water

1 cup heavy whipping cream freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaf for garnish, or to taste

Melt butter in a large soup pot over medium-high heat; cook mushrooms in butter with salt until the mushrooms give off their juices; reduce heat to low. Continue to cook, stirring often, until juices evaporate and the mushrooms are

golden brown, about 15 minutes.

Set aside a few attractive mushroom slices for garnish later, if desired. Mix onion into mushrooms and cook until onion is soft and translucent, about 5 more minutes. Stir flour into mushroom mixture and cook, stirring often, for 2 minutes to remove raw flour taste. Tie thyme sprigs into a small bundle with kitchen twine and add to mushroom mixture; add garlic cloves. Pour chicken stock and water into mushroom mixture. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1 hour. Remove thyme bundle. Transfer soup to a blender in small batches and puree on high speed until smooth and thick. Return soup to pot and stir in cream. Season with salt and black pepper and serve in bowls, garnished with reserved mushroom slices and a few thyme leaves.

There are many varities of soup for just about every taste. Photo by Laura Kurella

Winter is time to find rosehips, make syrup

By Lori Matthews

Nurture the Soul

with Nature is an education column that encourages reconnecting with nature to nurture the soul with:

●Natural plant and mushroom medicines

●The observation of the natural processes of the earth, moon, and sun

●The observation of our local flora and fauna (plants and animal)

●Honor and concern for our local water supply

●Following the honorable harvest in our food and medicine foraging

As the light of winter comes later in the morning in the east, the dense foggy atmosphere has lowered itself into the trees and vegetation. It's easy to enjoy the quiet three-dimensional naked trees rising into the sky from the warm home that I enjoy.

Large pignut hickory, wild cherries, black walnuts, hackberry, elm, sycamore, maple, tulip poplar, and white pines look over me. I think of these trees as my grandmothers looking after me and the critters that depend on them. I have a teenage basswood standing tall in the foreground and a row of elderberry trees in the background, waiting to renew themselves in the spring.

You can hear the birds waking up to start their day while all the other critters stay hunkered in until full light. Today's quest will be to find a nice stand of wild, tasty rosehips on this mid-January day. Rosehips or rose haws contain rose plant seeds. Most, not all, can be very tasty this time of year. In our area, we have

an abundance of the invasive type of rose called multiflora rose. This species originates in Asia. It was planted heavily in the 70s and 80s for soil erosion control and now has become the bane of farmers and naturalists alike. It takes over native species habitats. I have it where I live and must keep it cut back to control it. Rose petals and the hips are very tasty and have medicinal properties. They are high in vitamin c, phytochemicals that can reduce inflammation, and polyunsaturated fats. They are a popular herbal source for the relief of osteoarthritis.

Rosehip Syrup

Remove any stems, leaves, and brown flower bits (called the calyx) from the hips, if needed. Rinse them through a colander. Break the rose hips into small pieces with a pulse blender or mortar/pestle. Put the broken-up rose hips into a pot with water. A ratio of two parts water to one part rose hips works well. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water has reduced by about half. Turn the heat off and steep the rosehip tea for another 15 to 30 minutes. Then strain the rose hips with a very fine mesh sieve. You don't want any small hairs inside of your rose hips to remain. They can be very irritating. When the tea has cooled to room temperature, add an equal amount of honey to the rose hip tea and stir. Store in the refrigerator and use as you would any syrup.

The advice offered in this column is intended for informational purposes only. Use of this column not intended to replace or substitute for any professional, financial, medical, legal, or other professional advice. If you have specific concerns or a situation in which you require professional, psychological or medical help, you should consult with an appropriately trained and qualified specialist. The opinions or views expressed in this column are not intended to treat or diagnose; nor are they meant to replace the treatment and care that you may be receiving from a licensed professional, physician or mental health professional. This column, its author, the newspaper and publisher are not responsible for the outcome or results of following any advice in any given situation.

Patricia Cannon, 72, passed away at her residence Wednesday, January 18, 2023.

She was born in Peru, Indiana on September 22, 1950 to the late John and Margaret (Snay) Schultz. Patricia married Eldon Cannon on December 14, 1973 and he survives. Patricia was a homemaker. She enjoyed playing bingo and the computer game POGO and shopping at Walmart.

She is survived by her husband, children; Amanda Copper of Peru, Eldon Cannon II of Elkhart, Bradley Cannon of Peru, 6 grandchildren; Austin Stivers, Anthony Miller, Shelby Miller, Zoey Nickles, Isabell Cannon, Elenor Cannon, 1 great grandchild, Oliver Stivers, brother, John Schultz of Rochester, sisters; Donna Long of Kansas, Cherly Lancaster of Peru, Marlene Coots of Wabash, Wilma Schultz of Wabash, and JoEllen Shockey of Wabash.

Patricia is preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation was Monday, January 23, 2023 at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, 105 West Third Street, Peru, Indiana.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Friends and family may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.

If a loved one has passed away, let the funeral home know you would like to have it published in The Paper of Miami County

We make it affordable to honor your loved ones

Rosehips can be found throughout Miami County branches in Winter.

Photo provided by Lori Matthews

North Miami Middle/High School

2nd Nine Weeks

Honor Roll

All A

SENIORS: Connor Ammerman, Connor Bahney, Jayden Bohn, Allison Bowman, Zane Carroll, Astella Fisher, Gabriella Francis, Blakely Herren, Reese Hoover, Landen Hunt, Tyler Hunter, Tyler Kling, Austin Knauf, Erik Lopez, Jacob Murphy, Lauren Neff, Landon Thomas, Garrett Walker, Allie Wildermuth, Joey Witmeyer, Noah Yentes.

JUNIORS: Alyssa Black, Kyler Brownlee, Kacie Deardoff, Aslan Emberton, Andrew Lane, Parker Mallow, Lulu McBride, Carson Raber, Zekiel Reshkus, Alison Smith, Emily R. Smith, Graycie Storm.

SOPHOMORES: Isabella Chapa, Michael Cleaver, Matthew Converse, Madison Deeds, Calie France, Alexndria Gerstorff, Maliyah Hall, Jenna Hughes, Riley Kling, Katrina Longawa, Ming Lowry, Victoria Masters, Joshua Mowery, Jlynn Piercy, Jacob Riley, Josalyn Simons, Garrett Starkey, Ema Steele, Dakoda Whann, Drew Wright.

FRESHMEN: Katelyn Cleaver, Riley Collins, Hannah Early, Hartley Hoover, Grayson Mavrick, Ryan Meredith, Leah Miller, Laney Musall, Zephaniah Reshkus, Grace Sailors, Zoey Sparks, Meggan Starkey, Taylor Sturch.

EIGHTH: Karly Hostetler, Laina Kling, Logan Smith, Kinzy Storm, Delilah Weaver, Alan Wildermuth.

SEVENTH: Anna Gallian, Kolten Hudson, Emma Hughes, Ava Kinney, Erika Raber, Sarah Snavely, Addyson Thomas, Leah Wessels.

A-B: SENIORS: Amaya James, Gage Caudill, Lauren Duncan, Bradyn Fennell, Kolton Floor, Molly Freeman, Madison Goulette, Isabella Gustin, Lucas Keim, Owen Knight, Alivia Mathias, Hannah Miller, Kinzee Miser, Isaac Ross, Austin Smith, Kyndal Wheetley, Grant Wildermuth.

JUNIORS: Jonathan Augustyn, Timothy Augustyn, Dolan Blakely, Griffin Dyson, Gracyn Gidley, Kaiden Hanley, Preston Holmes, Ben Hoover, Isaac Ireland, Reid Johnson, Edward Lane, Aiden Laycock, Pierce Madden, Maverick Malott, Addison Miller, Ella Neff, Jayson Phillips, Ammaraluck Plodripu, Braxtyn Rader, Emily L. Smith, Luke Spencer, Jordan Weaver, Edward Weidner, Alexander Wilcox, Calvin Wildermuth, Erma Yoder.

SOPHOMORES: Kylei Brown, Jordan Eaton, Annika Hulsey, Jordan Korreckt, Ray Pickett, Ashley SumpterMusic.

FRESHMEN: Annabelle Bufington, Kale Deardorff, Aaron Edick, Hannah Fennell, Karter Floor, Isaac Floyd, Braxton Fritz, Gavyn Fritz, Jordyn Hackworth, Ashtyn Halterman, Alivia Kinney, Steven Manning, Braylon McIntire, Lake Musall, Lucas Patton, Lindsey Pugh, Christian Snavely, Chloe Sparks, Samuel Stone, Brinly Sturch, Kayley Waggoner, Kamren Whann, Joannah Wildermuth, Gabriel Wiley, Noah Winters.

EIGHTH: Kaiden Badger, Colten Clark, Kayden Donaldson, Courtlen Finnegan, Michelle Hawkins, Aaron Jones, Karasyn Kuhn, Leona Mullet, Zion See, Hayden Spin.

SEVENTH: Alivia Burt, Evan Chumbley, Brady Coppler, Maddox Craft, Khloe

Evans, Elise Floyd, Ella Gidley, Jace Hall, Nathan Hiffner, Andrea Hoover, Coltyn Hyden, Audrianna Medina, Porscha Pickett, Stormy Spicer, Madyson Trickett, Keyli Pantaleon.

NORTH MIAMI MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL 1ST SEMESTER HONOR ROLL

All A

SENIORS: Connor Ammerman, Amaya James, Allison Bowman, Bradyn Fennell, Gabriella Francis, Kloie Hargrove, Blakely Herren, Reese Hoover, Landen Hunt, Lucas Keim, Tyler Kling, Austin Knauf, Jacob Murphy, Lauren Neff, Landon Thomas, Garrett Walker, Allie Wildermuth, Joey Witmeyer.

JUNIORS: Alyssa Black, Kacie Deardoff, Grifin Dyson, Aslan Emberton, Isaac Ireland, Reid Johnson, Andrew Lane, Aiden Laycock, Parker Mallow, Lulu McBride, Carson Raber, Zekiel Reshkus, Emily R. Smith, Luke Spencer, Graycie Storm.

SOPHOMORES: Isabella Chapa, Michael Cleaver, Matthew Converse, Madison Deeds, Calie France, Maliyah Hall, Riley Kling, Katrina Longawa, Joshua Mowery, Ray Pickett, Jlynn Piercy, Jacob Riley, Garrett Starkey, Dakoda Whann, Drew Wright.

FRESHMEN: Katelyn Cleaver, Riley Collins, Hannah Early, Hartley Hoover, Grayson Mavrick, Ryan Meredith, Leah Miller, Laney Musall, Zephaniah Reshkus, Grace Sailors, Meggan Starkey, Taylor Sturch, Joannah Wildermuth, Noah Winters.

EIGHTH: Kayden Donaldson Laina Kling, Logan Smith, Kinzy Storm, Delilah Weaver, Alan Wildermuth.

SEVENTH: Anna Gallian, Kolten Hudson, Emma Hughes, Ava Kinney, Erika Raber, Sarah Snavely, Addyson Thomas, Leah Wessels

A-B

SENIORS: Alana Amburgey, Connor Bahney, Aubrey Burns, Zane Carroll, Gage Caudill, Lauren Duncan, Astella Fisher, Kolton Floor, Madison Goulette, Isabella Gustin, Owen Knight, Erik Lopez, Alivia Mathias, Hannah Miller, Kinzee Miser, Austin Smith, Samantha Smith, Noah Yentes.

JUNIORS: Timothy Augustyn, Dolan Blakely, Kyler Brownlee, Jaagup Eckle, Gracyn Gidley, Preston Holmes, Ben Hoover, Bradlee Larrowe, Pierce Madden, Maverick Malott, Haylie Meives, Ella Neff, KJ Plodripu, Braya Schanlaub, Alison Smith, Emily L. Smith, Jordan Weaver, Edward Weidner, Alexander Wilcox, Sophia Wohlfarth, Erma Yoder.

SOPHOMORES: Kylei Brown, Jordan Eaton, Yesica Pantaleon, Jenna Hughes, Jordan Korreckt, Ming Lowry, Victoria Masters, Wyatt McClanahan, Lilly Quinn, Josalyn Simons, Liberty Spohn, Emma Steele, Ashley SumpterMusic.

FRESHMEN: Nikolas Augustyn, Annabelle Bufington, Kale Deardorff, Aaron Edick, Karter Floor, Colin Floyd, Isaac Floyd, Braxton Fritz, Gavyn Fritz, Jordyn Hackworth, Ashtyn Halterman, Alivia Kinney, Steven Manning, Braylon McIntire, Lake Musall, Lindsey Pugh, Zoey Rafferty, Christian Snavely, Chloe Sparks, Zoey Sparks, Lilly Spicer, Samuel Stone, Brinly Sturch, Jonathon Towles, Kayley Waggoner, Kamren Whann, Gabriel Wiley.

EIGHTH: Kaiden Badger, Caedra Behny, Colton Clark,

Brylee Edwards, Courtlen Finnegan, Karly Hostetler, Aaron Jones, Karasyn Kuhn, Michael Miser, Hayden Spin, Alan Wildermuth.

SEVENTH: Aiden Adams, Karston Black, Alexandria Blackford, Alivia Burt, Brady Coppler, Kloe Evans, Elise Floyd, Ella Gidley, Jace Hall, Layla Hampton, Nathan Hiffner, Andrea Hoover, Coltyn Hyden,Trevor Kline, Olivia Marshall, Porscha Pickett, Stormy Spicer, Madyson Trickett, Keyli Pantaleon.

North Miami Elementary

All A GRADE 2: Jadyn Ballard, Jordan Carroll, Layanah Garcia, Eden Hammon, Lillian Houchin, Madison Howell, Journey Shepard, Aryssa Zartman

GRADE 3: Aubrey Clark, Dane Deardorff, Tenley DeMien, Addison Feller, Dean Haynes, Evelyn Hendrix, Michael Hostetler, Amelia Kinney, Oliver McBride, Bentley Miller, Kainan Ousley, Jake Stuber, Kennadi Thorrington, Savannah Weaver

GRADE 4: Chloe Carter Addison Chumbley, Maddox

Martin, Daisy Mellen, Corinna Pickett, Cason Smith, Savannah Smith, Naomi Snavely, Bentley Stewart, Mckinley Tacheny, Callie Thorrington

GRADE 5: Kylie Durst, Holden Fritz, Madilyn Hall, Sam Sailors, Halle Shirrell, Daphne Weaver

GRADE 6: Kinley Deardorff, Keaton Floor, Sydney Lane, Kain Sopher, Tyler Tacheny

All A & B

GRADE 2: Harley Brunner, Alexandria Cruz, Lucas Easterday, Nolan Handy, Delilah Hollarman, Dani Hoover, Serena Leverett, Kyndrah Maxwell, Gunner Miller, Harper Miller, Angel Mills, Mason Rylands,Casey Thorrington, Jaylee Walrod, Ben Wessels, Gunner Williams, Ben Wolfe

GRADE 3: Oliver Bauder, Izabelle Brantley, Shane Briscoe, Michael Byers, Braden Campbell, Madeline Crist, Breanna Douglass, Keaton Fletchall, MelodieMae Genga, Saylor Hall, Greyson Howard, Kolton Howard, Cynia Jumper, Sawyer Kabage, Marshall Lambert, Ireland McBride, Izabella Nethercutt, Haisley Patton, Willow Ribble, Kitzia Saucedo Escobar, Cyrus

Smith, Karma Smith, Jackson Thompson, Jacob Waggoner, Levi White, Autumn Wilder

GRADE 4: Kayden Brownlee, Aubri Chumbley, Matthew Clark, Peyton Collins, Judah Hammon, Skylar Hudson, Zayne Jackson, Hilary Lawson, Alexander Magee, Chloe Mahan, Bonnie Ousley, Isabella Ousley, Wes Pickett, Averie Raffensperger, Braelynn Rairigh, Blake Rentschler, Alex Schwartz, Adilynn See, Haley Smith, Khloe Smith, Heath Spin, Jordyn Stamper, Alex Weaver, Jubilee Werner

GRADE 5: Lily Barnes, Shawna Cook, Averie Hudson Duncan, Anai Escamilla-Pantaleon, Avery Gallian, Alivia Haynes, Ada Hovermale, Sophia Jaberg, Victoria Judy, Levi Mathias, Addison Million, Izzac Myers, Brantlee Ousely, Brady Schanlaub, Zola See, Isabella Shidler-Fan, Taylor Starkey, Laynee Townsend, Parker Weaver, Lucas Wessels, Keagan Wibel, Colin Wilder, Jaxon Wright

GRADE 6: Jayce Burns, Madelyn Cervantes, Isabella Curtis, Ian Floyd, Andrew Hawkins, Roscoe Hoover, Reese Hostetler, Tayah Listenberger, Nehemiah McFarland, Alexan-

Sports shorts

Maconaquah

Girls Varsity Swimming Wins 7th consecutive championship

By Janet McManus

The girls came to TRC ready to swim!

We had over twenty best times and I couldn’t have been more proud of their performances. They were ready to defend their title as the best in the TRC!

In the 200 Medley Relay, Loshnowsky, Heath (PR), Collins (PR), and Winegardner (PR) placed 2nd and dropped two full seconds off of their time.

Chloe Jordan placed 1st dropping 1 second with Thea Tyra in 4th and Maddie Brennan dropped three seconds and placed 7th.

In the 200 IM, Samantha Jones placed 2nd, Kyndal Collins dropped one second placing 4th, and Shay Schottmer placed 7th. Zoie Laber dropped a second and placed 2nd, Laci Winegardner dropped .6 seconds placing 6th, followed by Nevy Sebastian in 7th.

Kathryn Rodkey stood on top of the podium as champion with Kaylee Futrell placing 5th.

In the 100 butterfly, Samantha Jones placed 2nd, Nevy Sebastian placed 4th, and Abby Jordan placed 5th.

The 100 freestyle was a great race with Laber dropping 2 seconds placing 3rd, Abby Heath dropping a second placed 4th, and Lucy Loshnowsky also dropping a second and placing 5th.

Chloe Jordan placed 1st in the 500, Thea Tyra placed 3rd and Maddie Brennan

dropped a second to hang on to 5th place.

The 200 free-relay had the girls (Laber, Winegardner, Tyra, Chloe Jordan (PR) placing 2nd with a 4 second time drop.

Lucy Loshnowsky placed 1st in the 100-backstroke followed by Collins and Abby Jordan in 3rd and 4th.

Abby Heath placed 1st in the 100 Breaststroke dropping 2 seconds followed by Laci Winegardner in 5th and Shay Schoettmer in 6th.

In the 400freestyle relay, Laber (PR), Heath (PR), Sebastian, and C. Jordan placed 1st.

Two Golden Goggles were given out today and wento to Nevy Sebastian and Shay Schoettmer.

Both ladies have had a rough couple of weeks and have pressed on and continued to stay positive. They both made it onto the podium today and kept their team on track. I love their spirit and dedication, I could not have been more proud!

Boys Varsity Swimming finishes 1st at TRC Championships; eighth consecutive conference win

By Brad McManus

What a great day to be a BRAVE!

I am so proud of the effort all of the boys put forth today. 84% Best Times/Scores.

Time drops are:

Ian Kolhs 3.6 in 100 Breaststroke

Quinn Richard 1 in 100 Butterfly and 2 in 100 Backstroke

Jesse Santiago .7 in 200 IM

Coen Thompson .6 in 100 Back and 1.1 in 100 Free Jarrod Nead 4 in

200 Free and 11.4 in 500 Free

Luke Abbott 2.3 in 100 Breast Brady Dausch was our only champion winning Diving with 290.20 points. He also dropped .8 in 50 Free

P.J. Higgins .5 in 50 Free, 7 in 200 IM, and .6 in 100 Free Garrett McManus 4.5 in 200 Free, 10 in 500 Free, 1.8 in 100 Free

Cole Nye .6 in 50 Breast, 4.5 in 100 Fly, .7 in 50 Free, and 2.5 in 100 Breast

Victor Riker .5 in 50 Free and 1.6 in 100 Back

Drake Samuel 5.5 in 500 Free

The Golden Goggle Award goes to Isaac Lorenz and Ryley Rodkey.

Isaac was 4/4 best. He looked so fast all day. He dropped .9 in 50 Free, 1.5 in 100 Free, .1 in 50 Free leg of 200 Free Relay, and 3.6 in 100 Free leg of 400 Free Relay.

Ryley had an amazing swim in the 200 Free dropping 6 seconds, 1.3 in the 100 Free, and .7 in 100 Free leg of 400 Relay

This was the 8th consecutive conference win for our program. It would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of our athletes.

Varsity Wrestling Team Gets 2nd at TRC

By Bob Freije

The wrestling team competed well! A lot of ranked wrestlers competed today with GREAT MATCHES & UPSETS! The team competes in the IHSAA Sectional next weekend at Peru.

Team Score: Rochester: 272.0 See Shorts, Page 9

Duncan is Franklin bound...

My name is Lauren Duncan (third from left) and I signed to continue my academic and softballcareers at Franklin College. I will be studying psychology. I am so grateful for this opportunity and I want to thank everyone who has helped me achieve this dream of mine. Pictured with Duncan are her parents, David and Kassy Duncan, and sister Abby Duncan.

Photo provided by North Miami Athletic Department

IHSAA girls basketball

sectional draw is released

The draw for the 2022-23 girls basketball state tournament that begins next week, Tuesday, Jan. 31, was released by the IHSAA Sunday, Jan. 22.

Class 2A Sectional 36 at Lewis Cass North Miami moved up a class and will compete in the Class 2A Sectional 36 at Lewis Cass next week.

Wabash (13-7) and No. 5 Pioneer (18-3) play the only game in the opening round on Tuesday, Jan. 31 at 7 p.m. Pioneer defeated Wabash, 70-60, on Nov. 22.

The second round is played Friday, Feb. 3, where North Miami (16-4) faces Winamac (4-17) at 6 p.m. and Lewis Cass (7-15) awaits

the winner of Wabash and Pioneer in the second game at 7:30 p.m.

The championship game is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 4, at 7 p.m.

North Miami defeated Lewis Cass, 43-36, on Jan. 11 and topped Wabash, 6253, on Jan. 21.

Class 3A Sectional 23 at Norwell Peru (8-12) and Maconaquah (4-16) will face off for the third time this season in the opening game of the Class 3A Sectional 23 at Norwell, Tuesday, Jan. 31.

Peru won both of the teams’ previous games, 44-21, on Dec. 15, and 34-31, on Dec. 28.

On Wednesday, Feb. 1, Bellmont (164) and Oak Hill (714) play in the first

Mac girls swim to seventh conference win

game of the night in a first-round matchup at 6 p.m. while Northwestern (14-4) and Mississinewa (6-15) play the nightcap at 7:30 p.m.

Host Norwell (173) awaits the winner of the Peru-Maconaquah game in the first game of the semifinals on Friday, Feb. 3, at 6 p.m. with the Bellmont-Oak Hill winner facing the Northwestern-Mississinewa winner at 7:30 p.m.

The championship game is at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4.

Peru lost to Oak Hill, 45-37 on Nov. 4 while Maconaquah lost to Oak Hill, 4117, on Dec. 3 and to Mississinewa, 48-38, on Dec. 21.

Shorts continued from Page 8

Maconaquah: 210.0

North Miami: 204.0

Peru: 133.0

Manchester: 112.5 Tippecanoe Valley: 93.0 Wabash: 67.0 Northfield: 66.0 Southwood: 56.0 Whitko: 29.0

Individual Results: Champions: Logan Farnell, Ethan Farnell, & Austin Ringeisen

2nd Place: Brayden Raber, Alex Ousley, Ty Glavan, Wyatt Price, & Camron Montgomery.

3rd Place: Nate Hanes

4th Place: Evan Oglesby & Aaron Ringeisen

7th Place: Camron Metcalf & Bryson Bledsoe

Boys Varsity Basketball wins on the road

By John Burrus

The Braves went on the road and beat Western. The Panthers had won 7 straight games. The Braves improve to 8-5.

Coach Burrus said, “The win at Western was a major accomplishment for our team. They were a big challenge and had posted some big

Mac boys swim to eighth conference win

wins. I really liked the play of MJ Ellis, and Trace Armstrong. They combined for 16 points. They chased Bauer Maple, hard but he still scored 27.

We also had 19 steals for the game. I liked our pressure. The kids made Western play fast. They are really good at playing slow and getting what they want. Our team dictated the pace of the game. We forced them to take 3’s or we got a turnover. Dean, the 6’8 kid got some dunks but we held everyone else down. I also liked how we played with the lead in the 4th. We spread the floor and got easy baskets.

It also was also a special game for me with win number 300. Thanks to everyone who made last night so special.

Maple 27pts 4reb 4ast 1bl 4st Ball 8pts 7reb 5ast 1st Armstrong 8pts 4reb 1ast 2bl 4st Ellis 8pts 4reb 1ast 3st Kelly 8pts 1reb 3ast 2st Kile 4pts 3reb 1ast 1st

Lady Braves claim county championship

By Rex Betzner

The Lady Braves improved to 6-0 with a 46-15 win over the Caston Comets to claim the County Championship.

The Lady Braves overwhelmed the previously unbeaten Comets with full court pressure defense and a smothering half court man. The ladies again had a balanced scoring attack with six Braves scoring. The Braves were led by Aubrey Kaiser with 18, Aubrey Stoll with 9, Delaney Betzner with 8, Kasey Murry with 6, Ireland Kile with 3 and Ani Osornio rounded out the scoring with 2.

Peru

Girls Varsity Basketball falls to Tippy Valley By Jenna Hayes

The Tigers traveled to Tippy Valley

Three wrestling champions at Maconaquah

Austin Ringeisen, Logan Farnell, and Ethan Farnell

Zeiser 3pts 1reb 3st Collins 1reb Miller 1reb

on Tuesday night for a TRC contest with the Lady Vikings.

The Tigers got off to a slow start and struggled to get anything going offensively until the 4th quarter due to the Vikings pressure. Turnovers and many missed opportunities to convert off the Vikings press found the Tigers in a big 23-50 deficit heading to the 4th quarter.

The Tigers found some footing in the 4th quarter outscoring the Vikings 19-12, but it ultimately was not enough as the Tigers fell 42-62.

Leading the Tigers offensively was Emma Eldridge with 10 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist, and 2 steals.

Brooklyn Garner had 8 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 steal.

Cameryn Raber had 8 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 steal. Brianna Bennett had 7 points, 1 rebound, 7 assists, and 1 steal. Addison Robbins had 5 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 steal. Kaylene Kirk had 2 points, 5 rebounds, and 1 blocked shot.

Peyton Wideman had 2 points.

Maddie Nordman had 1 rebound.

Maliyah Dunn had 1 assist.

The Tigers are

now 8-11 on the season and 4-4 in TRC play. The Tigers will travel to Pioneer for a non-conference game.

Peru 8th grade girls grab a big win over Lewis Cass

By Gayle Raber

Peru’s 8th grade girls started fast and played a com-

plete 4 quarters Thursday night to get a win over Lewis Cass 36-12.

Jacey Boswell played her best defensive game of the season thus far as she was able to gather in rebounds and help set the team up for quick transitions up the floor.

Emmy Thompson had herself a

great offensive game and led all scorers with 13 points.

The 8th grade is now 2-5 on the season.

Scoring for Peru:

Emmy Thompson - 13 pts

Maddie Gatliff12 pts

Jacey Boswell11 pts

Lady Tigers go 1-1 in Miami/Fulton Tournament

By Gayle Raber

Peru 8th grade fell to Caston in the first round of the Miami/Fulton Tournament 39-38. We started fast and were up by 6 at halftime.

In the 2nd half we struggled defensively to keep Caston out of the paint. The girls fought hard and battled to take the last second shot, but fell short.

Maddie Gatliff and Emmy Thomp-

son both had a great offensive game as Gatliff scored 22 pts and Thompson finished with 10 pts.

In game 2 Peru got a win as they held off North Miami 32-20. Emmy Thompson handled the ball and controlled the offense to help Peru find the basket. We played a great team game in this win.

Scoring vs. Caston Maddie Gatliff22 pts

Emmy Thompson-10 pts Alyvia Guyer -4 pts

Jacey Boswell -2 pts

Scoring vs. North Miami Maddie Gatliff13 pts

Emmy Thompson-8 pts Jacey Boswell-7 pts Sofie Nordman – 4 pts

Girls Junior Varsity Basketball beats Pioneer Jr-Sr 30 –17

By Stephanie Bennett

The Peru JV Lady Tigers were on the road at Pioneer tonight. We started out slow in the first half but these young ladies continue to fight and never give up. We picked it up after half time.

We adjusted our offense and defense and came out victorious. The Lady Tigers beat the Panthers 30-17.

Leading scorers for the Tigers were Sydney Azbell, and Molly Mann with 8 points each. Maliyah Dunn, Peyton Wideman, and Amariya Jackson had 4 points each. Ky Correll had a bucket.

Peru Wrestling Finishes 4th at TRC invite

By Zachary Leffel

Individual Re-

sults Include: 106 lbs. Regan McGuire: 1-2 (7th place)

113 lbs. Leland Brown: 2-3 (6th place)

120 lbs. Brayden Gibson: 2-1 (2nd place)

126 lbs. Glen Baldwin: 1-3 (6th place)

132 lbs. Zach Smithers: 1-3 (8th place)

138 lbs. Cooper Baldwin: 3-0 (1st place)

145 lbs. Cody Legg: 3-2 (5th place)

152 lbs. Isaiah Korba: 2-3 (6th place)

160 lbs. Ian Black: 2-2 (4th place)

170 lbs. Jay Taylor: 2-2 (7th place)

182 lbs. Alex Smithers 2-3 (6th place)

195 lbs. Melachi Gatliff: 2-2 (7th place)

220 lbs. Keyton Ousley: 3-1 (3rd place)

285 lbs. Trevi Hillman-Conley: 4-1 (3rd place)

Maconaquah's Brayden Raber gets a pin over Rochester's Zyler Baughman in the 113 pound weight class at the Three Rivers Conference Tournament Saturday, Jan. 21. Raber finished second on the day. Photo by Eric Christiansen

Peru Tiger, Cooper Baldwin, was the lone champion for the Tigers at the TRC Invitational. Photo provided

ria McGovern, Rivkah Miller, Aeva Myers, Dean Pickett, Savannah Rentschler, Colton Sheline, Cole Thorrington, Oliver Wildermuth

Outstanding At-

tendance 2nd 9 weeks

Kindergarten: Gabryella Brantley, Amelia Burton, Jocelyn Carroll, Helen Coldiron, Henry Deeds, Hudson Hall, Braylon Hampton, Camdon

Hetzner, Norah Hileman, Sawyer Hovermale, Ryker Hyatt, Gracelyn Miller, Kasen Musselman, Hendrix Oldfather, Reid Pickett, Henry Powell, Eiley See, Piper See, Alliviah Silvers, Brianne

Smith, Ainsley Spann, Brody Speer, Emmett Stephenson, Aubrey Tacheny, Caroline Weaver, Jesse Weaver, Kody Wheetley, Savanna White 1st GRADE: Savanna Campbell, Emer-

syn DeMien, Yeni Escamilla-Pantaleon, Hazleigh Green, Dezmon Hall, Gauge Hasselkus, Jaxon Hileman, Horace Hovermale, Graham Kabage, Grayson Kabage, Keilynn McCart-

ney, Silas Miller, Haven Oldfather, Owen Prior, Lorali Ramirez, Eden See, Carianne Smith, Karsynn Smith, Keith Smith Jr., Jeremiah Snavely, Sawyer Stuber, Harper Tigler, Ryker Williams,

Kensley Wilson

2nd GRADE: Jadyn Ballard, Alicia Brown, Jordan Carroll, Hudson Click, Alexandria Cruz, Lucas Easterday, Aria Ewing, Dominik Fodge, Leland Fodge, Lindsay Frederick, Layanah Garcia, Delilah Hollarman, Dani Hoover, Khloe Hostetler, Lillian Houchin, Madison Howell, Gunner Miller, Harper Miller, Hayden Musselman, Sophie Richardson, Mason Rylands, Jennifer Schwartz, Madison Smith, Morgan Starkey Gunner Williams