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A preview of the Wabash County Soil & Water Conservation District annual meeting can be found in a special section inside this week’s The Paper
February 16, 2022
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Bids received for addition to Wabash Carnegie Public Library By Joseph Slacian jslacian@thepaperofwabash.com
Snow won’t stop fishermen: Mitch Rebholz of Wabash pulls a crappie out of the ice on Salamonie Lake in Huntington County on Feb. 10. Ice fishing enthusiasts have been able to enjoy several weeks of ice fishing in Wabash County and surrounding areas, due to frigid temperatures over the past month or more. However, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources warns anglers to always be diligent when venturing out on the ice. The IDNR uses the slogan When in doubt, don’t go out. Beware of thin ice to provide guidance to fishermen who love braving the cold to engage in fishing’s winter bounty. As a guideline, the IDNR advises fishermen, hikers and skaters to stay off any ice that is less than four inches thick. The IDNR also warns that ice can be various thicknesses on one body of water and holes must not be any wider than a diameter of 12 inches. Photo by Phil Smith
Four companies submitted bids on Wednesday, Feb. 9, to build an addition to the Wabash Carnegie Public Library. The bids – ranging from $3.8 million to $4.5 million – will be reviewed by the Wabash Carnegie Public Library Board on Feb. 15. The library board is considering adding a two-story, 4,400-square-foot addition to the building, located northeast of the intersection of West Hill and South Cass streets. The bids were open during a brief meeting, overseen by Zachary Benedict, a principal at MKM, an architect and design firm from Fort Wayne. The library board is working with MKM on the project. The bids consisted of five parts – the base bid, along with four alternate addons, to enlarge the library vestibule, work on lower-level restrooms, add a skylight and replace the building’s roof. The bids also included anticipated start dates, as well as the number of calendar days anticipated to complete the project. Submitting bids were: — Shawnee Construction and Engineering, Fort Wayne — $4,522,000 for the base bid. Alternate bids were
$561,000 (vestibule); $74,000 (lower level restrooms); $67,000 (skylight), $99,000 (replacing roof). The firm anticipates the start date as May 2, and it would take 730 days to complete the project. — Hamilton Hunter Builders, Fort Wayne — $3,865,972 for the base bid. Alternate bids were $405,440 (vestibule); $70,930 (lower level restrooms); $73,940 (skylight); and $113,400 (replacing roof). The firm anticipates a March 1 start date, with work taking 425 days to complete. — CDI Inc., Terre Haute — $4,294,000 for the base bid. Alternate bids were $180,000 (vestibule); $67,000 (lower level restrooms); $48,000 (skylight); and $110,000 (replacing roof). The firm anticipates a March 1 start date, with work taking 365 days to complete. — CME Corp., Fort Wayne — $4,587,000 for the base bid. Alternate bids were $492,000 (vestibule); $118,000 (lower level restrooms); $92,000 (skylight); and $148,000 (replacing roof). The firm anticipates a March 1 start date, with work taking 480 days to complete. If approved, the new addition would be located on the east side of the existing building, attached to an addition placed on the facility in 1972. The addition would have a glass divider attaching it to the existing building.
Zachary Benedict, a principal at MKM, an architect and design firm from Fort Wayne, reads a bid received for the Wabash Carnegie Public Library addition during a special meeting on Feb. 9. Photo by Joseph Slacian
Record breaker: Manchester High School wrestler Dylan Stroud
(right) set a new county record, winning the 145th match of his high school career while at the New Haven Wrestling Semi-state. He will compete this weekend at the IHSAA State Finals in Indianapolis. For more, see Page 14. Photo by Eric Christiansen
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The Paper of Wabash County
February 16, 2022
Voted “Best Garage Door Company in Wabash County” in The Paper of Wabash County 2020 Readers Choice
Babe of Wabash County toy drive deemed a success By Phil Smith psmith@thepaperofwabash.com
Southwood Jr/Sr High School’s Amy Long, left, was nominated for the Staff Spotlight by co-worker Beth Eagan. Photo provided
Southwood nurse receives MSD’s Staff Spotlight Award By Phil Smith psmith@thepaperof wabash.com The ability to wear two distinctly different hats has garnered a Metropolitan School District of Wabash County staff member a Staff Spotlight Award. At the regular meeting of the MSDWC board of trustees, Southwood Jr/Sr High School’s Amy Long was presented the award by Superintendent Mike Keaffaber and co-worker Beth Eagan, who nominated her for the honor. “At the beginning of the school year, we were one office secretary short and Amy wore many, many hats,” said Eagan, pointing out that Long’s primary role is that of school nurse. “Not only was she a school secretary, a school nurse, but she took care of attendance and many, many other things. And, she always had a smile on her face.” Eagan pointed out that one of Long’s strengths is her ability to stay poised regardless of outside stresses. “I’m sure there are times
when she’s not happy, but we would never know that,” said Eagan. “She’s always willing to go the extra mile to help someone out. That’s just what we see out of Amy every single day. We’re definitely honored and privileged to have Amy.” Eagan said she personally experienced Long’s compassion during a recent health issue. “She has been a cheerleader for me as I continue my recovery from cancer,” Eagan said. Keaffaber said it’s the corporation’s only time of having an employee serve as both a secretary and a school nurse. The sentiments regarding Long were also mirrored by Southwood Principal Andrew McDaniel. “We got to know Amy in years past as a substitute nurse and we knew her as somebody spunky and fun and just an all-around great person,” McDaniel said. “She’s meticulous and has an excellent work ethic. She gets through things and she’s just fund to be around.”
Nearly two months removed from the holidays, a local non-profit is recalling the challenges faced in trying to provide toys for underprivileged children, and giving a shot in the arm to a local teacher in the process. According to Katey Till, executive director of BABE of Wabash County, her organization’s annual toy drive in December met with some unexpected hurdles. She credited Northfield Jr/Sr High School teacher Roger Votaw with helping to ensure a successful drive. Till made a presentation on the event during the regular meeting of the Metropolitan School District of Wabash County’s board of trustees. “It’s something that BABE of Wabash County put together a couple of years ago and (we) decided that it was something that we wanted to do again,” said Till of the toy drive. “We knew that there was a need in our community.” Till said her organization received some surplus toys from another organization and also received help from the U.S. Marines’ Toys For Tots. “Putting together a large toy drive is a lot of work,” she said. “We had to clear out the educa-
tional spaces in BABE so we could set up the toys. How the toy drive works is that we set up the toys like a toy store so when families come in who are in need of Christmas presents for their children, they’re given a certain amount of points. It’s 10 points per child. They spend these points like money. So, every toy in the shop has to be individually priced.” Till said approximately 400 children were served during the inaugural event in 2020. The results of the first drive would not prepare Till’s team for 2021. “That’s what we were kind of expecting this year too,” she said.
“That first day, when we showed up to open up the toy distribution, there was a line of people that stretched all the way down Miami Street — from our front door all the way down to the railroad road tracks. It was freezing that day.”
Till told the MSDWC board there was no way to accommodate the shoppers against the elements. Shoppers were required to first register, then return to the line until their number was called. Covid19 protocols also Continued on Page 3
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Wabash senior to intern at The Paper of Wabash County Wabash High School senior Wyatt Buzzard has joined the staff of The Paper of Wabash County as an intern for the spring semester of the 2021-22 school year. Buzzard was given the opportunity to participate join forces with The Paper staff through Wabash High School’s Entrepreneurship
program led by Whitney Myers. The program pushes students to dabble in business and get a feel for what they can achieve with any idea, big or small. Buzzard is undecided on the college he wants to attend, but said he’s taking advantage of this opportunity and getting a taste of as many different slices of life as pos-
Toy drive complicated matters. “People were standing outside and they were freezing,” Till said. “We had so many people show up that day and we weren’t prepared for it.” That’s when Till said she started calling potential volunteers for help. One of those helpers was Votaw. “People dropped what they were doing and they came and helped us,” she said. “We served more children on that first day then we did on all four days of the year before. The second day came and (we thought) this is the slow day because last year it was the slow day. Again, we show up and there is a line of people.” It was then Till said she received a call from a representative of Toys For Tots, explaining a situation that seemed to illustrate why her drive was in such high demand. “They said ‘you are the only toy site open in eight surrounding counties, will you please consider opening for more than just Wabash and Miami counties,’” Till said. “When you’re in that situation and you’re seeing the families come in and the stories that you’re hearing and the gratitude, it is a
real special event to be a part of. I can’t quite describe it. People were like ‘thank you because I didn’t know what I was going to do if you weren’t open.’” Till said the Marines showed up with military trucks filled with more toys. She said her daughter advised her to be prepared for the third day. “So, I called Roger, he’s the guy, the first guy I thought of,” Till said, noting that Votaw coordinated with a local church to give shoppers a place to wait out of the elements. “When people would register, they could go over and wait in the church,” Till said. “He took it one step further and instead of just providing a warm place to stay, he brought coffee and donuts and volunteers,” she said. Votaw, a sponsor of Northfield’s Key Club and National Honor Society, brought a contingent of students to bear on the situation. “They just filled in where we needed them to fill in,” said Till, adding that by the end, the drive served 834 children. “You can imagine what the place looked like,” she said. “Roger got students and
WYATT BUZZARD
sible. He’s hoping to obtain many skills before he makes his final
choice. At Wabash High School, Buzzard is one of four captains on the football team. His free time consists of training and trying new things in the gym. He’s developed a love for the gym and is very passionate about overall fitness. Buzzard said he is excited to start his internship at The Paper and
...continued from Page 2 cleaned up. I can’t even describe how awesome that was. I didn’t know how I was going to get this whole thing
cleaned. There wasn’t a lazy bone in this group, they all pulled their weight and they all did an amazing job.”
believes this is one of the best ways he can pick up some unique skills he can use later in college and the workforce. Hands-on is, he said, the best way to learn, and he can’t wait to get started. The Paper editor Joseph Slacian said he’s looking forward to working with Buzzard over the next several
weeks, and is thankful for the opportunity to help mentor a high school student. Wabash High School Entrepreneurship program is a strong supporter of making their students smarter, independent, entrepreneurs/employees, and believes the skills they obtain during these
internships will be indispensable, Myers said.
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February 16, 2022
MSD facing shortage in custodial staff By Phil Smith psmith@thepaperofwabash.com Metropolitan School District of Wabash County joins other area school corporations in feeling the crunch of a distressed job market — particularly where it relates to those invaluable staff members who keep the school hallways sanitary. At the regular meeting of MSDWC’s board of trustees on Tuesday, Feb. 8, Superintendent Mike Keaffaber echoed the words of Northfield High School Principal Jay Snyder who lauded the efforts of a trio of custodians who have carried the weight of a
NM firm to host ribbon cutting
Grow Wabash County officials announce that Nature’s Remedy will be hosting a grand re-opening at its new location, 121 E. Main St., in North Manchester. The community is invited to attend a ribbon cutting at the new location on Friday, March 4 at noon, to celebrate the occasion. “We here at Nature’s Remedy cannot thank the community enough for the overwhelming support and the opportunity to let us serve [them] over the initial year opening our doors,” said Krystal Presl, owner of Nature’s Remedy. In addition to massages of all sorts, Nature’s Remedy now includes skin care, waxing and cosmetic teeth whitening services with staff esthetician, Mikayla Arnett.
usually larger staff. “We have a new hire who started last week at Northfield, but they went the last month or more working extra between the three of them to keep things clean at Northfield,” said Keaffaber, reading a report from Snyder on custodians Ron Nordman, Mike Arrowood and Lisa Goshert. “Thanks for all you do to keep the school clean and looking great each day.” MSDWC is not the only corporation to feel the pinch of an employee-heavy job market. At last month’s meeting of Wabash City Schools board, a former full-time
custodian agreed to come on board to help out while the district figured out how to fill holes made by the retirement of 17-year custodial veteran Steve Howard and the resignation of Wabash High School’s Andrew LaBonte. At MSDWC, Vernon Mollette retired from Sharp Creek Elementary School after 26 years. A shortage all around has put added responsibilities on the shoulders of regulars like Nordman, Arrowood and Goshert. Both school corporations have announced they still have custodial openings.
Author has book signing: Brenda Jacoby signs a copy of her recently-published book “Alvin-Alveena” during a book signing at Wabash’s Joy Christian Book Store Feb. 9. According to the author, the book is aimed at pet owners, particularly first-time or young ones — and it’s a story nearly four decades in the making about a case of mistaken gender identity when the author’s son mistook a new pet turtle as a male. Photo by Phil Smith
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February 16, 2022
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City Schools eyes team-teaching concept By Phil Smith psmith@thepaperofwabash.com Thanks to a recent seminar attended by several Wabash City Schools educators and administrators, a new, teamoriented approach to educating could be coming down the pike at the school district. WCS Superintendent Dr. Amy Sivley told the district’s board of trustees at its regular Feb. 7 meeting that staff would give a presentation on the initiative. “We went last week to Phoenix to a PLC (Professional Learning Community) training, and I’m going to allow them to introduce themselves and anybody who wishes to share, please kind of give us a little nugget on what you’ve learned and how this is going to make change in Wabash City Schools,” said Sivley Beth Phillipy, principal at OJ Neighbors Elementary School, told the board that the program is a paradigm shift from traditional education. “One of the things that was very impressive to us is that it taught us a whole new
WCS adjusts Covid-19 protocols By Phil Smith psmith@thepaperofwabash.com Wabash City Schools’ board of trustees has made another adjustment to its Covid-19 protocols as changes were announced by the state health department. “The Indiana State Department of Health has modified their quarantine guidance for schools that are mask required,” said WCS Superintendent Dr. Amy Sivley at the board’s regular meeting Monday, Feb. 7. “We will no longer have to quarantine any student that is contact traced during activities where the mask may be off for a short period of time, such as lunch or band.” The superintendent told the board that the corporation still contact traces, or keeps track of students who
way of teaching,” she said. “Focus was really on learning versus teaching — asking not what (was) taught today, but what did my students learn today. It’s a big mind shift from the traditional way of teaching, but there were a lot of benefits that we found through the collaboration that we had together, and then we were able to collaborate with the whole team that went down, which was really nice for us to learn and build on things that they taught us.” Phillipy said the collaborative process “was something that really stood out to us, that
it’s not just a ‘my classroom,’ you have different teams within your own building, so it looks different at every level.” Phillipy also added that PLC focuses on inclusion. “All kids can learn, and it’s up to us to hold those expectations for them and to work toward that, and to use each other as a foundation to reach all the students and provide them everything that they need to learn. It’s a process, and we’ve got a lot of plans in place that we’re going to reach out to our building and try to work with them.” Sivley told the board that the
were possibly exposed to the virus. “We would notify families that (their) child was in close contact — please watch them for symptoms — but they don’t have to go home now. So this was great news for us.” Last month the district’s board discussed the need for implementing policies regarding the testing of staff members. According to Sivley, the state “also modified the reporting requirements. Our school nurses only have to report positive cases, instead of all that have been contact traced. So that is greatly reducing the amount of time required by our nurses.” In addition, Sivley told the board the district received a quantity of rapids tests, which can be used on students or staff members. However, she told the board that the tests would expire soon.
recent seminar was her fourth. “I will say that I learned something new at every single conference that they put on,” she said. “One of the things they talk about is that you have to have a guaranteed and viable curriculum,” Sivley said. “Viable means that we have looked at our state standards and determined that we can teach that in the time that we have.” Ryan Evans, a seventh grade teacher at Wabash Middle School, told the board he was most struck by the team aspect of PLC. “For us to suc-
Purdue Extension to host ServSafe class, examination Purdue Extension is offering a ServSafe Food Manager class and examination on March 29. This course will prepare participants to take the Certified Professional Food Manager certification exam. The class will meet at the REMC Community Room. The class will meet from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with the exam at 3:30 p.m. ServSafe Food protection Manager is the highest certification for food service workers. This course will prepare individuals to take and pass the multiplechoice certification exam. The course focuses on five aspects: — Foodborne microorganisms and allergens — Personal hygiene
— Purchasing, receiving, and storage — Preparing, cooking, and serving — Facilities, cleaning/sanitation, and managing pests Upon successful completion of the exam, participants will receive a certification and their name will be added to the National Registry of Food Managers. The certification is valid for five years. The course fee is $165 and includes the manual and exam. The exam only is $65. Register with Cvent online: https://cvent.me/O7OzQO For more information contact Mindy Mayes at the Purdue Extension Wabash County office, 260-560-0661, 1408, or email mayes7@purdue.edu.
ceed in being able to do this, you need to know you’re not alone in this process,” he said. “We have this community aspect to this, then we will
know what kids need to do, how we can get them there and how we know that they got there. That’s what I’m excited about, because a lot of times you’re in your own little containment area, how
do you know it’s working?” The superintendent also told the board that 20 more staff members of WCS will attend a similar conference over the summer in Grand Rapids, Mich.
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IDOE launches dashboard for Covid relief school spending
The North Manchester Public Library was able to receive five new laptops thanks to a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the Indiana State Library. Photo provided
NM Library receives new laptops
The North Manchester Public Library now has five new HP Probook Laptops available for patrons to check out and use inhouse. The purchase of these laptops was made possible through an LSTA grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the Indiana State Library. For patrons who may need a quiet place to study, who want to curl up on a window seat to catch up with email, or who want to do some research in the Indiana Room, these new laptops
February 16, 2022
will provide the flexibility to do computer work from anywhere in the library. “We’re really excited to be able to update our inhouse laptops,” said Jeanna Hann, Adult Department Manager. “Any card-holding patron over the age of 18 may check out a laptop from the front desk and use them anywhere in the library. This will allow patrons more privacy, and allow them to move throughout the library to do their work - for example, a parent can take a laptop down to the playroom to work while keeping an eye on their kids.” “NMPL is so
grateful for the opportunity to purchase new laptops for the library through the ARPA LSTA grant,” Library Director Diane Randall said. “This grant enables the library to continue to provide the North Manchester community with the use of quality technology equipment. “This supports our mission statement to provide materials, programs, and services necessary to meet the recreational and educational needs of the community in a comfortable and easily-accessible facility.” The laptops are available for check
Wabash Musicale members have January meeting Wabash Musicale met Jan. 25 at the Christian Church with 14 members and one guest present. President Carolyn Eppley welcomed the ladies and turned the meeting over to Sarah See and Barb Biehl who took turns announcing their clarinet duets. Their first song was “Praise and Adoration” – a medley of “We Bring the Sacrifice of Praise,” “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore You” and “Serve the Lord with Gladness”, arranged by Stan Pethel, a widely qualified composer and arranger of over 1,300 works. Their next song was “Find
Us Faithful”, arranged by Stan Pethel with words and music by Jon Mohr. Carolyn Eppley played “Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered” from the musical “Pal Joey” with music by Richard Rodgers. Sarah See and Barb Biehl returned to play “Great is They Faithfulness” with words by Thomas Chisholm and music by the Rev. William Runyon. It was published in 1923. Their last song was “Shout to the Lord”, arranged by Stan Pethel with words and music by Darlene Zshech. A short business meeting followed.
out during the library’s computer lab hours (MondayThursday, 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.; FridaySaturday 9:30 a.m.4:30 p.m.). Any card holding patron over the age of 18 may check out a laptop to use in the building.
The Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) last week launched a statewide Covid-19 relief school spending dashboard. The dashboard reflects COVID-19 federal relief grant fund reimbursements as part of schools’ locally-developed spending plans, which are focused on improving student learning. Schools in Wabash County have all received nearly half of the funds they’ve been allocated, according to the dashboard. “Empowered by historic levels of state and federal education funding, schools have an unparalleled opportunity to improve students’ educational outcomes with these dollars,” said Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education. “To most impactfully invest these funds, we must focus on accelerating student learning, supporting educators, promoting sustainable innovation, and updating technology and other infrastructure.” The dashboard reflects school grant allocations and reimbursements from the three rounds of federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funding, as well as competitive grants that were
awarded to schools from federal Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) funding. Across Indiana, $2.8 billion in federal funding has been allocated to local school districts. Currently, more than $550 million in expenditures have been reimbursed — with school districts continuing to submit for reimbursements on allowable expenses per federal law. School corporations have through September 2022 to encumber the first round of ESSER funding and through September 2023 and September 2024, respectively, to encumber the second and third rounds of their ESSER grants. For Manchester Community Schools, $2,858,603 has been allocated, for which $1,256,722 has been reimbursed, or 44 percent. Metropolitan School District of Wabash County has been reimbursed $778,979 of the $2,497,715 allocated. For MSDWC, 68.8 percent remains to be reimbursed. Wabash City Schools has been reimbursed $1,234,556 of the allocated $3,646,590, with 66.1 percent remaining.
The Paper of Wabash County NM resident named to Alabama dean’s list
February 16, 2022
Spence Trick of North Manchester was named to the University of Alabama Deans List for Fall Semester 2021. A total of 11,979 students enrolled during the fall 2021 term at The University of Alabama made the dean’s list with academic records of 3.5 or above (on a 4.0 scale), or the president’s list with academic records of 4.0 (all A’s). COLTON EUGENE DIRCK
Colton Eugene Dirck Colton Eugene Dirck was born Dec. 30, 2021, at Parkview Regional Medical Center to Mr. & Mrs. Sam Dirck. The baby weighed 7 pounds 3 ounces and was 19 inches long. His mother is the former Alyssa Gaerte. Colton has a big sister, Claire Dirck. Grandparents are Steve and Carolyn Dirck, Diane Newman
and Nick Gaerte. Aunts and uncles are Chase and Cassie Gaerte, Lillie Evans, Seth Gaerte, Reiss Gaerte and Nathan and Fran Dirck. Colton is named after his great-great-grandfathers, Robert Eugene France Sr., Alan Gene Dirck and Gene Custer.
UWIN tree sale continues through March 16 Upper Wabash Invasives Network (UWIN) is holding a second tree sale, now through March 15. Selected trees are native to this area and – beyond the beauty, shade, and curb appeal - provide native insects and wildlife necessary food and habitat. A sampling of trees and
large shrubs available are red maple, sweetgum, persimmon, tulip (Indiana State tree), redbud, paw paw, snowberry, red osier dogwood, spicebush, and more. Prices depending on chosen size, are $15 - $90. Orders may be placed online at lafontainelions.com/shop or email trody@dnr.in.gov to have an order form emailed.
Briner earns Olivet honor Halle Briner of Silver Lake was named to the dean’s list at Olivet Nazarene University during the recently completed fall 2021 semester. To qualify for inclusion on the dean’s list, a student must be full-time have attained a semester grade point average of 3.50 or higher on
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a 4.00 scale.
Trine names dean’s list Trine University students were named to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2021 term. To earn Dean’s List honors, students must complete a minimum of 12 hours and have a grade point average of 3.500-3.749. Whitney Ewing, Peru Nathan Ozenbaugh, North Manchester Opal Polk, Peru Greysen Spohn, Peru Erin Whetstone, Wabash Also, the following students were among those to complete their degrees in the fall of 2021 at Trine University. Connor Hanaway and Whitney Ewing, Peru Caleb Wilkinson, South Whitley Peyton Wilson, LaFontaine
MR. & MRS. BILL SNEP
Mr. & Mrs. Bill Snep Mr. & Mrs. Bill Snep celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Feb. 11, 2022. Snep and the former and Anita Burkhart were married on Feb. 11, 1962, by the Rev. William McCoy at the Congregational Christian Church in Servia. Snep is a retired farmer and Mrs.
Snep worked at Wal-Mart for over 20 years. They have two children, Phil (Brenda) Snep, North Manchester, and Doug (Dee) Snep, North Manchester. The couple has five grandchildren. The couple celebrated with the family.
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The Paper of Wabash County
February 16, 2022
Raymond Sweet, 77
Nancy Taylor, 88
Served in Peace Corps
Worked at Funderburg Library
Retired from Kmart
Oct. 3, 1944 – Feb. 5, 2022
June 25, 1933 – Feb. 8, 2022
July 31, 1936 – Feb. 8, 2022
Raymond Allen Sweet, 77, of Peabody, North Manchester passed away at Parkview Regional Hospital in Fort Wayne on Feb. 5, 2022. He was born in Huntington on Oct. 3, 1944, to Raymond Edward and Mildred (Stuart) Sweet. Raymond was a graduate of Manchester College. After college he joined the Peace Corps and served in Ecuador and Ghana, West Africa. He taught Science in Tampa, Fla., with the Teacher Corps and later on the Choctaw Indian Reservation in Philadelphia, Miss. He was an entomologist and loved collecting and instructing others about the benefits of insects. In retirement he enjoyed gardening, playing chess, watching sports; especially the Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears, and the Kansas State Wildcats; but most of all he enjoyed cheering on the Manchester Squires wrestling team. He loved and was appreciative of the family of nurses and caregivers at Peabody in North Manchester. Raymond is survived by his son, Byron (Dusti) Sweet of Macy, and sister, Brenda Dickey of Marion. He was proceeded in death by his parents and brother, Larry Sweet. A graveside service took place Friday, Feb. 11, 2022, at Pilgrim’s Rest Cemetery in Huntington. Preferred memorials are to be directed to the Manchester Squires wrestling team. McDonald Funeral Homes, 231 Falls Ave., Wabash, have been trusted with Raymond Sweets’ final arrangements. Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com
Jeffrey Grindle, 61 Worked at LSC Communications July 27, 1960 – Feb. 9, 2022
Jeffrey L. “Jeff ” Grindle, 61, North Manchester, passed away on Feb. 9, 2022. He was born July 27, 1960. Visitation from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 17, at McKee Mortuary in North Manchester. Services follow.
Nancy M. (Watson) Taylor, 88, North Manchester, passed away on Feb. 8, 2022, at Peabody Healthcare in North Manchester. The daughter of James L. and Alma L. (Roark) Watson, Nancy was born on June 25, 1933, in Youngstown, Ohio. A 1951 Central High School graduate, Nancy went on to study at Manchester College. On May 5, 1952, Nancy married James C. Taylor and the two welcomed three sons, Ned, Tim and Patrick. She returned to Manchester College to work at Funderburg Library for over 25 years. Nancy loved to travel, especially internationally, and enjoyed regular correspondence with friends and family. She was also a member of a singing quartet early in her life. Nancy’s love for service led her to join service clubs including The Order of the Eastern Star, Ivy Chapter No.69 and TriKappa. She was also a member of the United Methodist Church in North Manchester. Nancy was an avid supporter of her children and grandchildren and made numerous trips to The Firehouse to enjoy her grandson’s band, The Dead Records. She also enjoyed going out to eat with her numerous friend circles. The loving memory of Nancy M. Taylor will be forever cherished by her sons, Ned (Margaret) Taylor, Milford, and Tim (Jenny) Taylor, North Manchester; grandchildren, Katie Taylor, Amy (Jeff) Johnston, Aaron Taylor, Amanda (Jose) Delgado and Abby (Ryan) Layman; and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, James C. Taylor; parents, James L. and Alma L. (Roark) Watson; one son, Patrick Taylor, passed away unexpectedly on Dec. 23, 1994; one brother, Raymond C. Watson; and two sisters, Helen Flannigan and Lola LaBrund. Visitation and services were Saturday, Feb. 12, 2022, at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester. The Order of the Eastern Star, Ivy Chapter No.69 and Pastor J.P. Freeman officiated. Burial was in Oaklawn Cemetery, 600 Beckley St., North Manchester. For those who wish to honor the memory of Nancy M. Taylor, memorial contributions may be made to The Ivy Chapter No.69 OES, 310 E. Mill St., Urbana, IN 46990 or Tri-Kappa P.O. Box 2, North Manchester, IN 46962.
Bette Lou Boyer, 85
Bette Lou Boyer, 85, of rural Wabash, died at 12:20 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2022, at her home. She was born on July 31, 1936, in Wabash, to Walter and Edith (Aukschun) Horner. Bette was a 1954 graduate of Wabash High School. She worked at General Telephone Company for seven years as an operator; she then worked at Kmart in Wabash retiring after 23 years. Bette married Charles Boyer in Rochester, on Nov. 2, 1956. She was a member of Christ United Methodist Church in Wabash. Bette enjoyed cross stitching, working in her yard, flower gardening, sitting on her porch swing, and especially enjoyed watching “Days of Our Lives” and old westerns. She is survived by her husband, Charles Boyer of Wabash; four children, Teresa (Jim) Cummings of Yorktown, Carla (Phil) Draper, Brian (Renee) Boyer, and Patty (Robby) Terrel all of Wabash; nine grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Elsie Strickler and Mary (Ed) Carpenter; and sister-in-law, Colleen Horner, all of Wabash. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Nevin Horner, and three sisters, Evelyn Lester, Juanita Horner, and Colleen Weesner. Funeral services will be private at Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, 1241 Manchester Ave., Wabash, with Pastor Tom Richards officiating. Burial will be in Falls Cemetery, Wabash.Preferred memorial is American Diabetes Association. The memorial guest book may be signed at www.grandstaff-hentgen.com.
Dharma Klug, 23 Wabash High School graduate June 13, 1998 – Feb. 7, 2022 Dharma Walls Klug, 23, of Wabash, passed away at 7:27 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 7, 2022, at her residence. She was born to James and Tiffany (Walls) Badman on June 13, 1998, in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Dharma was a 2016 graduate of Wabash High School. Dharma is survived by her son, Jase Reed of Wabash; maternal grandparents, Richard (Kathy) Hubbard of Wabash; one uncle, Justin Walls of Fort Wayne; two brothers, Dylan Klug and Shawn Learned of Wabash; two sisters, Kadance Klug and Isabelle Learned of Wabash. She was proceeded in death by her parents, James and Tiffany Badman, her grandfather, William Klug, and the father of her son, Tre Reed. Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 12, 2022, at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Ave., Wabash, with Danny Honeycutt officiating. Burial will follow at Falls Cemetery in Wabash. Visitation for family and friends will be two hours prior to the funeral service from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday at the funeral home. McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Ave., Wabash, have been trusted with Dharma Klug’s final arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com
February 16, 2022
Mary Mitchell, 89
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Lozetta May (Sucher) Sundheimer
Meredith ‘Red’ La Mar, 88
Eastern Star member
Was voracious reader
U.S. Army veteran
Aug. 1, 1932 – Feb. 7, 2022
Nov. 15, 1928 – Feb. 2, 2022
March 27, 1933 – Feb. 9, 2022
Mary Louise (Quarry) Mitchell, 89, of Marion, went to be with the Lord on Monday, Feb. 7, 2022, at Parkview Wabash Hospital. She was born on Aug. 1, 1932, in Indianapolis to the Rev. Ralph and Grace (Grable) Quarry. She was married to Harold Bryce Mitchell on February 23, 1951, and he preceded her in death in 2011. Mary graduated from Swayzee High School in 1951. She worked at JC Penney’s and First Christian Church in Marion, where she was the secretary. She retired in 1994 after 18 years. She was a member of First Christian Church, where she served as a deacon and worked with the youth. She enjoyed the Christian Women’s fellowship, Bible study, and book club. Mary was also a member of LaFontaine Eastern Star and the Hostess House. She is survived by her children, Bryan (Modena) Mitchell of Wabash, Cavin (Shirley) Mitchell of Slidell, Texas, and Brenda (Lyndon) McGlothin of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Matthew Mitchell of Noblesville, Benjamin Mitchell of Indianapolis, Elisabeth (Travis) Moore of Noblesville, Katherine Mitchell of Columbia City, Troy (April) Mitchell of Greenwood, Grace (Thomas) Marshall of Indianapolis, Isaac (Carrie) Watson of Morgantown, Misty McGlothin of Churubusco, and Christopher (Beth) McGlothin of Angola; step-grandsons, Bridger (Angel) Peck of Hallettsville, Texas, and Brayden (Sierra) Peck of Decatur, Texas; 17 great-grandchildren; six step-great-grandchildren; and sistersin-law, Barbara Mitchell and Myrna Shane. She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Harold Bryce Mitchell; sons, Myron Jay Mitchell and Harold Eugene Mitchell; daughter, Sharon Kay Watson; daughter-in-law, Debra Mitchell Tinkle; granddaughter, Ruby Ann Mitchell; grandson, Andrew Scott McGlothin; parents; and sister, Ada Matchett. Visitation was Friday, Feb. 11, 2022, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion. Visitation and services were Saturday, Feb. 12, 2022. Pastor Haley Asberry will be officiating with burial taking place at Thrailkill Cemetery in Swayzee. Memorial contributions may be directed to First Christian Church, 1970 N. Wabash Rd., Marion, IN 46952 or Troyer Memorial Library, 1 E. Kendall St., LaFontaine, IN 46940. Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
Kernie Arnett Visitation for Kernie Arnett will be from 2-7 p.m. Feb. 18, at the Gospel Hill Pentecostal Church of God, Silver Lake. Services will be 1 p.m. Feb. 19 at the church; calling at noon.
The world lost a sweet, lovely lady on February 2, 2022, as heaven welcomed her. Lozetta May Sundheimer was born in Butler, on Nov. 15, 1928, to Charles and Iva (Richmond) Sucher into a family of eight. Zettie, as she liked to be called, had three children; Dina, Stanley and Gaye and lived most of her life in Wabash. She was a scholar, voracious reader, a hard worker and a lover of animals. Zettie knew and trusted Jesus and loved everyone she met. She lived her life with a positive attitude and never said an unkind word. She was an Eisenhower Republican but changed parties when the Republicans changed their policies. Zettie worked to support her family her whole life. She was employed at U. S. Gypsum in Wabash for over 25 years and following retirement from U.S.G., she worked at The Wabash County Hospital where she made many friends. She is survived by two sisters, Helen Louise (Lou) Plant and Emma Bever; and Zettie’s three children Dina (Larry) Glass, Stanley (Jeanette) Sundheimer and Gaye (Jim) Haist. Six grandchildren Megan (Chad) Bradley, Katie Sundheimer, Jonathan (Carol) Sundheimer, Molly (William Ross) Strong, Sam (Katelyn) Haist and Ben Haist. Twelve great grandchildren Maddie and Brendon Glass, Phoebe and Jack Bradley, Violet, Thatcher and Winston Strong, Harper May and Quinn Sundheimer and Eden, Chloe and Norah Haist. Zettie was preceded in death by her parents, her two brothers; Charles and Bill, sister Charline Bean and grandson Charlie Glass. She always put her family first – believing that the greatest gift one could give to family was to spend time with them, listen to them, be caring and encouraging and supportive of their dreams. She loved to have fun and made sure to tell people that she loved them often. This is how she lived her life. In lieu of flowers you could honor Zettie’s memory by donating to any Democrat candidate, an act she would have endorsed wholeheartedly, or you could donate to American Humane at americanhumane.org to help give the gift of life to animals in need. The family is planning a private celebration of life to be held in late spring.
Meredith “Red” La Mar, 88, of Wabash, and with ties to Marion, passed away on Feb. 9, 2022, at Miller’s Merry Manor West in Wabash. Mr. La Mar was born in Richmond, to Nathan Samuel and Ethel S. Mull La Mar on March 27, 1933. He graduated from Hagerstown High School in 1951. He married Norma “Kay” La Mar on Sept. 13, 1952. He worked for 36 1/2 years as a Tool & Die Maker at the GM plant in Marion, until his retirement in 1993. He was a veteran of the Korean War where he served as an MP in the U.S. Army at West Point from 1953 to 1955. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, and brother. Survivors include his wife Norma “Kay” La Mar of Wabash, a daughter Cheryl “Sherry” (Dan) Townsend of Wabash; two sons Scott (Lisa) La Mar of Wabash, and Steven (Vickie) La Mar of Kokomo. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two nephews and a niece. The family of Red would like to extend our sincere thanks to the staff of Miller’s Merry Manor, Heartland Hospice, and their church family at the Marion First Friends Church. A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Marion First Friends Church 2211 N Wabash Rd, Marion, IN 46952.
Dennis Nicholas, 59 Enjoyed fishing June 25, 1962 – Feb. 12, 2022 Dennis Ervin Nicholas, 59, of Kokomo, died Saturday, Feb. 12, 2022, at Community Howard Regional Health, in Kokomo. He was born June 25, 1962, in Theresa, N.Y., to Arnold and Jean Nicholas. Dennis was a member of the Moonshine Cowboys. He enjoyed fishing, collecting model cars, and playing with his two huskies. He is survived by four children, Gabryel Nicholas of Wabash, Aden Michael King of Huntington, Elijah Ray Hiner of Peru, and Danny Nicholas of Canisteo, N.Y.; several grandchildren; and sisters
and brother, Debbie, Shelly, Dawn, Darlene, and Dale. He was preceded in death by his parents. There will be no services. Arrangements by GrandstaffHentgen Funeral Service. The memorial guest book for Dennis may be signed at www.grandstaff-hentgen.com.
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Frances Parrett, 86 Retired from Hooks Drug Store April 4, 1935 – Feb. 10, 2022 Frances Evelyn Parrett, 86, of Wabash, died at 10:55 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 10, 2022, at her granddaughter’s home in North Manchester. She was born on April 4, 1935, in Hot Springs, Ark., to W.D. and Clara (Lunceford) Gibson. Frances was a 1953 graduate of Lakeside High School in Hot Springs, Ark.. She married Carl Edward Parrett at the Southside E.U.B. Church in Wabash on Nov. 6, 1954; he died Dec. 1, 2005. Frances worked at Hooks Drug Store in Wabash, retiring after 16 years, and also worked 8 years at Gackenheimer Pharmacy. She enjoyed gardening, loved her pets and adored her grandchildren. Frances was a caregiver to many, and was known for her southern hospitality and sense of humor. She is survived by her son, Bradford Scott Parrett of Wabash; two grandchildren, Jessica (Michael) Duhamell of North Manchester, and Jeremy Scott Parrett of Wabash; eight great-grandchildren, Jadin Parrett, Kaidyn Hobbs, Paris Crull, Isaiah Hunt, Elijah Hunt, Mason Mast, Jase Duhamell, and Jordan Parrett; great-great-grandson Val Harty; and several nieces and nephews in Arkansas. She was also preceded in death by her parents, granddaughter, Jennifer Parrett, nine brothers, and two sisters. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022, at Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, 1241 Manchester Ave., Wabash, with Pastor Tim Prater officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Lawns Cemetery, Wabash. Friends may call 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, at the funeral home. Preferred memorial is Blessings in a Backpack. The memorial guest book for Frances may be signed at www.grandstaff-hentgen.com.
Diana Backus, 69 Enjoyed cooking April 22, 1952 – Feb. 11, 2022 Diana Faye Backus, 69, of North Webster, passed away at 1:36 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 11, 2022, at her residence in North Webster. She was born to William and Faye (Collins) Sopher on April 22, 1952, in Wabash. Diana was a 1970 graduate of Wabash High School. She married Dan Backus July 4, 1976. He passed away April 2010. She worked at Jellystone Park Camp Resort in Pierceton. Diana loved to go shopping, enjoyed camping, cooking, gardening, and most of all loved her family and her grandchildren, and her sweet dog, Baby. Diana is survived by her mother, Faye Sopher of Wabash; one son, Bret (Jeanna) of Mentone; three daughters, Felicia Baker of Syracuse, Angela Backus of North Webster, and Krista (Luke) Bradley of Rochester; 16 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and a brother, Billy Sopher of Wabash. She was proceeded in death by her father, William Sopher, and husband, Dan Backus. Funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022, at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, with Pastor Brad Wright officiating. Burial will follow at Falls Cemetery in Wabash, Indiana. Visitation for family and friends will be 2 hours prior to the funeral service from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home. McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, have been trusted with Diana Backus’s final arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com
Police & Fire Reports North Manchester Police Department Accidents Feb. 8 3:09 p.m. — Vehicles driven by Caleb L. Flick, 18, Roann and Ashley M. Grimes, 38, North Manchester collided in the 600 block of West Main Street. Feb. 10 12:21 p.m. — Vehicles driven by Lynsie H. Compton, 21, Losantville and Sara E. Shultz, 20, Churubusco collided on Ruse Street near Miami Street. Incident Feb. 10 3:27 p.m. —A vandalism report was taken in the 500 block of Miami Street. Arrest Feb. 5 6:59 p.m. — James K. Frasure, 43, North Manchester was arrested for operating while intoxicated. Fire Runs North Manchester and Chester Township fire departments responded: Feb. 2 9:37 a.m. — to the 400 block of West 2nd Street for a medical assist. North Manchester Fire Department responded: 11:38 a.m. — to the 1100 block of West 4th Street for a medical assist. Feb. 3 8:35 a.m. — to the 700 block of North Wayne Street for a medical assist. 1:10 p.m. — to the 600 block of North Mill Street for a medical assist. 3:39 p.m. — to the 400 block of West 7th Street for a medical assist. Feb. 4 2:32 a.m. — to the 300 block of Hickory Lane for a medical assist. 7:41 a.m. — to the 400 block of West 7th Street for a medical assist. 12:18 p.m. — to the 400 block of West 7th Street for a medical assist. Feb. 5 1:45 p.m. — to the 500 block of West South Street for a medical assist. 9:07 a.m. — to the 400 block of West 7th Street for a medical assist. 5:52 p.m. — to the 1200 block of West 4th Street for a medical assist.
Feb. 6 12:21 a.m. — to the 100 block of West Market Street for a medical assist. 8:46 a.m. — to the 1200 block of Beckley Street for a medical assist. 5:03 p.m. — to the 700 block of North Bond Street for a medical assist. Feb. 7 8:14 a.m. — to the 200 block of East 9th Street for a medical assist. 8:33 a.m. — to Chestnut Lane for a medical assist. Units from North Manchester, Chester Township and Pleasant Township fire departments responded: 2 p.m. — to an alarm in the 600 block of East College Avenue. North Manchester Fire Department responded: 3 p.m. — to the 400 block of West 7th Street for a medical assist. Feb. 8 8:16 a.m. — to the 1700 block of SR 114W for a medical assist. 1:20 p.m. — to the 1100 block of West Main Street for a medical assist. Feb. 9 7:46 a.m. — to the 400 block of West 7th Street for a medical assist. 9:38 a.m. — to the 2200 block of East Street for a medical assist. Feb. 10 8:56 a.m. — to the 500 block of East 3rd Street for a medical assist. Units from North Manchester, Chester Township and Pleasant Township fire departments responded: 11:26 p.m. — to the 600 block of East College Avenue for an alarm.
Norma Kitt, 91 Former Northfield teacher April 2, 1930 – Feb. 12, 2022 Norma Isabelle Krile Kitt, 91, Andrews, died Feb. 12, 2022. Norma was born on April 2, 1930. Visitation will be 10:30 a.m. to noon Feb. 19, at Myers Funeral Home, Huntington Chapel. Services to follow.
PERSONAL INJURY WRONGFUL DEATH
Christina Graf, 65 Worked in service industry Oct. 24, 1956 – Feb. 11, 2022 Christina Rosita Graf, 65, of rural Akron, died Friday, Feb. 11, 2022. Christina was born on Oct. 24, 1956. A memorial celebration will take place at a later date. Hartzler Funeral Home handled arrangements.
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Police & Fire Report Cont. from Page 10.
Feb. 11 North Manchester Fire Department responded: 6:22 a.m. — to the 400 block of West 2nd Street for a medical assist. Wabash Sheriff ’s Department Accidents Feb. 2 8:49 a.m. — A vehicle driven by Leah M. Wilson, 44, Peru, left the roadway State Road 13, south of State Road 16, Urbana, and struck an Indiana Department of Transportation sign. Damage up to $5,000. 9:29 a.m. — A vehicle driven by Ciara N. France, 28, North Manchester, left the roadway at the intersection of SR 16 and CR 300 E, Urbana, striking a communications box. Damage up to $5,000. 10:45 a.m. — A vehicle driven by Andrea L. Shively, 26, Wabash, left the roadway on CR 550 W, Somerset, striking a culvert. Damage up to $25,000. 11:25 a.m. — A vehicle driven by Trent J. Bill, 24, New Haven, left the roadway at the intersection of US 24 and CR 500 E, Wabash, striking a traffic sign and a fence. Damage up to $10,000. 4:59 p.m. — A vehicle driven by Steven R. Eagle, 60, Wabash, left the roadway on SR 124, Treaty, coming to rest in a ditch. Damage up to $5,000. Feb. 5 5:44 a.m. — A vehicle driven by Joshua J. Modesitt, 38, Denver, slide on the slick road surface on CR 200 N, west of SR 15, Wabash, striking a guardrail. Damage up to $5,000. Feb. 6 3:06 a.m. — A vehicle driven by Ryan K. Parrett, 35, Roann, slid on the slick road surface on CR 200 N., Wabash, hitting a ditch and coming to rest in a field. Damage up to $10,000. 3:51 p.m. — A vehicle driven by Savannah N. Keppel, 33, Roann, left the roadway at the inter-
section of CR 700 W and CR 700 N, Roann, striking a utility pole. Damage up to $25,000. Feb. 7 5:07 p.m. — Vehicles driven by Thomas E. Smith, 74, Plymouth, Mich. and Nancy S. Corn, 63, Lagro, collided at the intersection of US 24 and SR 13N, Wabash. Damage up to $25,000. Feb. 9 8:46 a.m. — Vehicles driven by Janet E. Warnock, 81, North Manchester and Christina L. Bradford, 51, South Whitley collided at the intersection of CR 1100 N and SR 13, North Manchester. Damage up to $25,000. Wabash Police Department Accident Feb. 11 8:14 p.m. — Vehicles driven by Martin C. Felix, 44, Logansport and Sidney C. Stamper, 16, Wabash, collided at the intersection of US 24 and Cass Street, Wabash. Damage up to $10,000. Arrests Feb. 7 — Levi T. Allen, 33, Wabash, was arrested for a community corrections violation. Feb. 7 — Dustin R. Cloud, 33, Wabash, was arrested for driving while suspended with a prior. Feb. 10 — Donald L. Leach, Jr., 27, Wabash, was arrested for violating probation. Feb. 11 — Nicholas P. Douglas, 21, Fort Wayne, was arrested for operating while never licensed. Feb. 11 — Blake A. Van Dalsen, 34, Roann, was arrested for driving while suspended with a prior and unlawful possession of a syringe. Citations Feb. 7 — Chea L. Davis, 32, Montpelier, was cited for driving while suspended, an infraction. Feb. 8 — John H. Cartright, 48, Peru, was cited for speed. Feb. 9 — Elijah C. Callahan, 17, Wabash, was cited for speed. Land Transfers The following land transfers were reported by
the Wabash County Recorder’s Office from Jan. 31 to Feb. 2, 2022: Frieda M. Warren and Ronnie D. Warren, quit claim deed to Chad M. Holley and Hannah E. Holley. Wayne A. Waggoner and Carol D. Cox, warranty deed to Brian C. Ranck and Sarah A. Ranck. Wayne Waggoner and Carol Waggoner, warranty deed to Brian C. Ranck and Sarah A. Ranck. Tammie S. Farris, quit claim deed to Michael A. Emery and Tina M. Emery. Stone Wall Partners, LLC., warranty deed to Mark D. Freeman. Brian C. Ranck and Sarah A. Ranck, warranty deed to Timothy L. Ranck and Ruth A. Ranck. Timothy L. Ranck and Ruth A. Ranck, warranty deed to Timothy L. Ranck and Ruth A. Ranck Joint Trust, Timothy L. Ranck and Ruth A. Ranck. Gregory L. Caughell and Terri A. Caughell, warranty deed to Travis M. Dyson and Katrina M. Tyson. Thomas S. Jarman, Janet L. Jarman and Janet Jarman, warranty deed to Janet L. Jarman. Nicholas A. Langsdale and Nick A. Langsdale, warranty deed to Cody A. Lloyd. Daniel E. Bricker, quit claim deed to Daniel E. Bricker and Christy L. Bricker. Ronald D. Lane and Deborah L. Lane, quit claim deed to Ronald D. Lane and Deborah L. Lane revocable living trust. Donald B. Carpenter, quit claim deed to Philip C. West and Jennifer A. Klein. Lana Webb and Lana Underwood, warranty deed to McKenzie A. Gray. Richard E. Fox, Jr., Vicki Sue Niccum, Stephen G. Vawter and the Billy D. and Jeanne L. Runkel Family Trust, trust deed to Stephen G. Vawter and Debra Jean Vawter. Richard E. Fox, Jr., Vicki Sue Niccum, Stephen G. Vawter and the Billy D. and Jeanne L. Runkel Family Trust, trust deed to Vicki Sue Niccum.
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The Paper of Wabash County
February 16, 2022
The Paper of Wabash County
February 16, 2022
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Commissioners OK jail re-design plan By Phil Smith psmith@thepaperofwabash.com The Wabash County Board of Commissioners agreed Monday, Feb. 14, to approve a change in the design of the county’s $33 million, 74,000-square-foot jail. Terry Burnworth of Pyramid Consulting addressed the board at its regular meeting and told the panel that supply chain issues have caused a need to rethink the building of the jail’s walls. “Unfortunately, like everything else in this world, supply chain management is an issue,” said Burnworth. “You designed your project and you were using precast concrete, which was the best value, no question at all about that. But, pre-cast is a supply chain issue right now. So, we need to go and have it done as — I call it stick-built — which would be concrete block and metal studs in areas that are not secure.” Burnworth told the commission
Probation Dept. seeks mental health grant By Phil Smith psmith@thepaperofwabash.com The Wabash County Probation Department is seeking additional government funding to help combat an issue that the department claims is not often addressed — mental health. “I’m going to ask is that we approve the possibility of us receiving a grant,” said Brian Swihart, Wabash County’s chief probation officer when he addressed the Wabash County Board of Commissioners at its regular meeting Monday, Feb. 14. Swihart told the three-person panel that he’d already applied for the grant and was requesting that sticking with the plan to use precast walls would cause the project to fall behind schedule. Ground was broken on the 18month project on Oct. 4, 2021. The 300-bed facility is currently on target to be finished by April, 2023. “Going back to stick built will meet the schedule,” Burnworth said. “Pre-cast comes pre-made. The other way, we’ve got to build it on site. It’s unfortunate we have to do it that way, but that will (keep the project on schedule).”
approval after the fact, due to a strict deadline. “This grant, I had to apply for by last Friday (Feb. 11), so I did submit that,” he said. “I do have a copy of the grant.” Swihart told the commission that most grants received by his department come from courts or from departments of corrections. “This is actually coming from the division of mental health and addiction, which is something we’ve never received before,” he said. “It’s also a grant that I’m not 100 percent sure we’re going to get.” The grant, totaling $37,393, is what Swihart calls an advance-
Burnworth told the commission that shifting gears as he recommends will boost the cost of the project, but added that the cost adjustment had already been factored in at the outset. “It’s well within your contingencies,” he said. By making the change, a re-design will be needed at an estimated cost of $50,000 to $80,000. The cost to build the walls on-site, he estimates, will add $150,000 to $200,000 to the project. “Doing this will at least bring it back within a
Richter joins Crossroads Marlee Richter has joined Crossroads Bank as a Commercial and Agricultural Lender in Wabash. Richter graduated from Purdue University with a bachelor’s degree in Finance. She worked at Crossroads Bank as a Commercial Loan Credit Analyst intern while in college. She has previous experience as a
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Senior Credit Analyst specializing in agricultural government programs. Marlee lives in Wabash County with her husband, Drake.
MARLEE RICHTER
schedule that’s doable,”
ment grant, which he said means it would not have to be reimbursed. “This grant is to allow counties to develop, improve, coordinate, align and enhance county coordination related to the access to treatment for substance abuse disorder and mental health,” he said. “Primarily, if we get this grant money, we’re going to put it toward our family recovery (program). Swihart said uses for the money would possibly include getting a third recovery coach, as well as “incentives and future training for some of our staff members.”
Burnworth said. “The other way,
you’re adding months upon
months.” Burnworth told the panel that once the re-design is complete, he would return to the board with a change order, which will include the final cost of the redesign. The board of Barry Eppley, Brian Haupert and Jeff Dawes approved the proposal. Prior to presenting the design change, Burnworth also presented an addendum to the project for an additional $100,000, which the board approved.
GOOD WORDS . . . First impressions can be lasting impressions. It’s often the first time we meet someone that may impact our beliefs about another; creating distance in the relationship. The patriarchs & prophets left initial impressions. Naamam’s (Captain of Aram’s Army) first impression of Elisha almost cost him a miracle. (2 Kings 5:2-3) Our first impression of the church could miss out on a blessing. (Read Psalm 122:1) Have you judged someone too harshly? Who can you get to know more about? Rev. Rick E. Carder - (RickeCarder.com)
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February 16, 2022
Stroud wins semi-state title Squire senior remains undefeated By Eric Christiansen news@thepaperofwabash.com
Manchester senior wrestler Dylan Stroud set the alltime Wabash County record for wins as he moved to 145-12 with a 10-6 decision victory to claim his second semi-state title in three trips to the finals at the New Haven Semi-State Saturday, Feb. 12. Stroud passes the impressive 144-16 mark set by Casey Stouffer, who placed third in the state for Southwood High School. After pinning his first two opponents to claim his third
straight State appearance, Stroud wrestled a great match to knock off 10th ranked Landon Bertsch of Bluffton 7-1. Stroud faced some adversity in the championship match where he gave up his first takedowns of the year, but bounced back and finished in control on top for the victory with a 10-6 win to improve to 36-0 on the season. Stroud started the day with a pin over Colton Bollenbacher from South Adams in 2:42, followed by a quarterfinal win over Eastside’s Briar Munsey in 1:26.
Junior Jordan Ayres (145) won his first match of the day with a pin over Kaleb Lounsbury from Prairie Heights in 5:28 to advance to the quarterfinal, but lost to Austin Brickey from Carroll (Fort Wayne) by disqualification to finish his junior year with a 15-8 record. Junior Zach France (152) saw his junior year come to an end with a 13-5 major decision defeat to Braxton Russell of Delta to end the season with a 33-5 record. Sophomore Preston Duffy lost his opening match to Isaac Benjamin
Wabash’s Jared Brooks ended his season in the semi-state second round with a record of 34-5.
Dylan Stroud will make his third appearance at the IHSAA State Finals this weekend. Photos by Eric Christiansen 7-0 to end the year with a 13-9 record at 220 pounds. “Overall it was a good showing for the team and a learning experience for the three non-senior competitors,” Manchester coach Bryon Sweet said. “Dylan will work hard this week as he attempts to chase the state title in Indianapolis next Saturday night.” Stroud (36-0) faces junior Mason Stanley (42-7) from Rensselaer Central in the opening match of the State Finals Friday, Feb. 18 in the evening session that begins at 7 p.m. at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Friday tickets are available for $10 each at Ticketmaster.com beginning at 10 a.m., Feb. 16. Saturday tickets for $15 per person go on sale Friday, Feb. 18 at 10 p.m. at
Northfield’s Jaydan Goshert finished his senior season with a 21-3 record. Ticketmaster.com. A livestream is available at IHSAAtv.org. go to the IHSAA website, www.ihsaa.org. Wabash senior Jared Brooks finished his high school wrestling career with a second-round loss to eventual champion Isaac Ruble of Bellmont in the quarterfinals of semi-state at 120 pounds. He defeated Fremont’s Essiah Kamer by pin in
2:53 before losing to Ruble by pin in 2:57. Brooks ends the season with a 34-5 record and was a 2021 state qualifier. Northfield’s Jaydan Goshert (182) lost his open-
ing match to Connor McPhee from Jimtown by pin in 1:51 to end the season with a 21-3 record. Goshert won the Maconaquah regional a week earlier.
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February 16, 2022
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Squires top Norse in basketball action
Mason Osborn (center) prepares to sign his letter of intent. He is joined by his parents Deena Osborn (front, at left) and Donny Osborn, Northfield representatives athletic director Josh Mohr (back row, from left), coach Brian Enyeart, brother Dylan Osborn and coach Jeff Kamphues. Photos by Joseph Slacian
2 Norse grid players sign to play in college By Joseph Slacian jslacian@thepaperofwabash.com A pair of Northfield seniors signed Friday, Feb. 10, to continue their respective football careers at university. Mason Osborn signed a letter of intent to play at Manchester University, while Jake Halderman did the same to attend Taylor University. The signings took place at Northfield High School as family and faculty members looked on. Osborn, a 6-foot1-inch, 250 pound offensive and defensive lineman, said he has always wanted to attend Manchester
University. “I kind of decided to go there since my freshman year,” he said after the signing. “We took a camp there and I just fell in love with the facility and what they had to offer there.” Osborn received All-Three Rivers Conference honors at offensive line. He plans on studying accounting. Halderman, a 6foot-3-inch 175 pound quarterback and long snapper, plans to major in business management at Taylor. “The culture at Taylor University is what really set them apart from the other schools,” he said. “Taylor offers a
family based-culture that focuses on God first in everything they do. I absolutely love the coaching staff at Taylor and cannon wait to start playing for Coach Mingo and the rest of the staff.” Halderman was the No.1 ranked long snapper in the state and the 45th in the country. As a senior, he threw for 750 yards and 11 touchdowns, and ran for 770 yards and 12 touchdowns. He received the Gus Dorais Award and was named honorable mention in the Three Rivers Conference at quarterback. Northfield finished the 2021 football season with a 7-4 record.
Jake Halderman (center) prepares to sign his letter of intent. He is joined by his parents Kari (front row, at left) and Howard Halderman and his siblings, Joe Halderman (back row, from left) and Jenna Halderman
The Manchester boys basketball team defeated Northfield in the only county matchup, while the Norse picked up a win at Bluffton, and Wabash ran away from North Miami in boys basketball action last week. Manchester 58, Northfield 43 The Squires built a 20-9 first-quarter lead at Northfield and never let the Norse threaten in a 58-43 win Wednesday, Feb. 9. After Northfield took a 2-0 lead after a basket from Noah Burkhart, Manchester’s Ethan Hendrix and Tyler McLain scored back-to-back baskets, followed by two free throws from William Rickerd to give the Squires a 6-2 lead. Manchester led 11-6 with 3:03 remaining but Gavin Betten scored the Squires’ next six points and Cade Miller hit a 3pointer to take a 209 lead after one quarter. The Squires extended the lead to 37-21 at halftime and the teams played evenly the rest of the way. Betten led Manchester with 25 points and 11 rebounds, followed by McLain with 12 points, three assists, and three steals, Gavin Martin with eight points and six rebounds, Rickerd with seven points, eight rebounds, and two assists, Hendrix with three points and four assists, and Miller with three points and four rebounds. For Northfield, Eli Kroh led the way with 12 points, four rebounds, and three assists, followed by Jake Halderman with 10 points and eight rebounds, Jaxton Peas with six points, Easton Shaw with six points and four
rebounds, Burkhart with four points, Treska with four points and four rebounds, and Kaleb Krom with one point and four rebounds. Peru 70, Manchester 49 The Squires struggled with Peru’s size and three-point shooting in a 70-49 loss to the Tigers Friday night, Feb. 11. Peru hit eight 3pointers, with Matthew Ross scoring 28 of his 30 points in the first three quarters, mostly from inside, and gave Manchester trouble in the paint. P Peru turned a 7-7 tie into a 19-7 lead early in the second quarter before the Squires fought back to cut the lead to 21-18 with 3pointers from Betten, Rickerd, and McLain. The Tigers led 4634 in the third quarter before Manchester cut the lead to 46-39 with two free throws from Hendrix and a 3-pointer from McLain. Peru switched to a 2-3 zone defense and held Manchester to one point in the final 3:32 of the third quarter and put the game away with 12 points in that span, including two 3pointers from Matthew Roettger, and one from Braxten Robbins, to take a 59-40 lead. They kept the Continued on Page 20.
JOSIE BRINER
Briner competes at swim finals Manchester swimmer Josie Briner took her third consecutive trip to the IHSAA Swimming State Finals in Indianapolis and finished 32nd in the 200 IM with a time of 2:21.18 (32.15).
“Josie has been a great leader for the Squires all year and capped off another successful season with her third straight trip to the state finals,” Manchester swim coach Wally Bennett said.
Lady Apaches fall in sectional The Wabash girls basketball team faced the daunting task of battling 21-5 Pioneer, the 2021 Class 1A state champions and the runners-up in 2020. Wabash stayed close for the first half against the Lady Panthers, but Pioneer slowly pulled away for a convincing 51-34 win over the Lady Apaches in the second round of the Lewis Cass Sectional Monday, Feb. 7. Pioneer opened the game with a 7-2 run before Wabash cut it to 9-7 with a
basket from Linda Cordes and a 3pointer from Libby Mattern. After Pioneer extended the lead to 14-7, Jade Stumbo scored inside and Kierra Wilson hit two free throws to make it a 14-11 going into the second quarter. Wabash cut the lead to 23-19 before the Lady Panthers scored the final seven points of the half to take a 28-19 lead. Rylee Yoakum led Wabash with 10 points, followed by Mattern with nine points.
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run going by scoring the first six points of the fourth quarter and cruised to the win. McLain led the Squires with 18 points, followed by Betten with 13, Hendrix with seven, and William Rickerd with six points. Northfield 62, Bluffton 52 Eli Kroh scored 25 points, grabbed six rebounds, and handed out six assists to help Northfield pick up its fourth win of the season with a 62-52 win at Bluffton Friday night, Feb. 11. The Norse jumped out to a 16-9 lead after one quarter of play and extended the lead to 34-23 at halftime. They extended it to 48-32 after three quarters and didn’t let Bluffton get close to enough to threaten. Halderman had eight points and 10 rebounds, while Krom had eight points and five rebounds. Northwestern 77 Southwood 59 The Knights fell behind early against Northwestern and never challenged the Tigers in a 77-59 loss Wednesday, Feb. 9. Northwestern took a 20-13 lead after one quarter and made it a 4527 lead at halftime. Southwood outscored the Tigers 22-15 in the third quarter, but it wasn’t enough. Cole Winer led the Knights with 22 points, four steals, and three rebounds, followed by Nathan Lehner with 13 points and seven rebounds, Dylan Stout with 12 points and three rebounds. Southwood 76 Maconaquah 62 The Southwood Knights
...continued from Page 15
outscored Maconaquah in three of the four quarters and pulled away from the Braves in a 76-62 TRC win Friday, Feb. 11. The Knights jumped out to a 16-6 first-quarter lead, only to see the Braves cut it to 34-29 at halftime. But a 16-12 third quarter gave Southwood a cushion going into the fourth quarter where they outscored Maconaquah 26-21. Nathan Lehner led a balanced Southwood scoring attack with 18 points, along with four steals. Cole Winer added 15 points, six rebounds, and three assists, followed by Derrick Smith with 13 points and three assists, Dylan Stout with nine points and five rebounds, Jason Oprisek with nine points, and nine rebounds, Will Winer with six points and three rebounds, and Isaiah Sutton with six points and seven assists. Madison Grant 47, Southwood 46 Southwood lost a tight, backand-forth contest at MadisonGrant, 47-46, Saturday night, Feb. 12, at home. The Knights led 6-3 at the end of the first quarter but things picked up in the second quarter when the Argylls took a 23-19 lead at halftime. Southwood regrouped and took a 34-33 lead into the fourth quarter but Madison-Grant squeaked out the one-point win. Oprisek led a balanced scoring attack with 13 points and six rebounds, followed by Cole Winer with nine points and six rebounds, Lehner with eight points, three rebounds, and three assists, Stout with eight points
and four rebounds, Smith with six points and five rebounds, and Sutton with two points and three rebounds. Wabash 78, North Miami 34 The outcome was never in doubt in Wabash’s 78-34 win over North Miami Tuesday, Feb. 8. The Apaches shot 17-25 (68 percent) from 3-point range, outscored the Warriors 22-7 in the first quarter, and 33-7 in the second quarter to run away with the win. Andrew Dinkins led Wabash with 17 points, seven rebounds and five 3-pointers, followed by Trevor Daughtry with 16 points, four rebounds, and four 3-pointers, Grant Ford with 12 points, four assists, and four 3-pointers, and Kolton Wilson with 12 points and two 3-pointers. Rochester 51, Wabash 48 The Apaches lost a heartbreaker against Rochester Friday night, Feb. 11, 51-48. The Apaches led the Zebras 30-24 at halftime and 39-35 going into the final quarter, but the visitors took the lead late to squeak out a 51-48 win. Wilson led the Apaches with 22 points and nine rebounds, followed by Daughtry with 16 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and four steals, Wright with four points and nine rebounds, Grant Ford with three points, and Andrew Dinkins with three points. Tippecanoe Valley 63, Wabash 58 In another close TRC game, the Apaches fell short to Tippecanoe Valley 63-58 Saturday, Feb. 12.
February 16, 2022
Paradise Spring annual meeting set The Paradise Spring, Inc. will hold its Annual Meeting and Soup Supper carryin on Wednesday, Feb. 23, at the Wabash County Museum, 36 E. Market Street in Wabash. The event is open to the public; however space is limited. The supper will begin at 6 p.m. and be held in the multipurpose room of the museum. The meal is free but reservations must be made by Feb. 18. Please enter the east door by the east parking lot. Donations will be accepted to help maintain the cabins at Paradise Spring. Following the meal, a historical program will be proJIM vided by retired NEEDLER teacher, Jim Needler. Needler has been involved in the “living history” world since 1992. Having participated in “living history” events throughout the Midwest, his focus has been on the Indian War of the early 1790s that took place in the Northwest Territory to the War of 1812, with Mississinewa 1812 being the pinnacle event. More recently, he has contributed to the portrayal of the treaty signing at Paradise Spring. He will be presenting a first person portrayal of Lt. Needler of Davis’ Rangers, a company of Indiana Rangers during the War of 1812. A Q & A session will follow. To make reservations, call Deanna Unger at 260-571-2879
National Random Act of Kindness Day is this week
Feb. 17 is National Random Acts of Kindness Day. To quote Mark Twain: “Kindness is a language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” Not only do the acts of kindness bring joy to the receiver but they spread positive reactions to the giver, too. Here are a few suggestions: 1) Mail a “thinking of you” card to someone you haven’t talked with in a while; 2) Pay for the coffee or meal of the person in front of you in line; 3) Share words of encouragement; 4) Send a thank-you note to the local fire or police department, or any military personnel; 5) Order a bouquet of flowers to be
delivered to anyone in the hospital. That means, call the florist and tell them to pick a hospital or nursing home and deliver flowers to the person the front desk thinks needs it the most. It could be a sick child, an elderly person with no family, or a college student down on their luck. And, if any of these aren’t possible for you, you
could Just Smile! Dora Christian Church, 2325 S. Salamonie Dam Road, welcomes you to worship service Sunday at 8:15 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. Sunday School is at 9:30 a.m. Pastor Mark Wisniewski’s sermons for Feb. will answer the question “What’s L.O.V.E. got to do with it?” The sermon for Feb. 20 is “The Greatest Love” based on Psalm 86:13 and John 3:16. Prayer time, Bible study, and discussion on “Jesus Among Secular Gods” is every Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. The Men’s Group will meet Monday, Feb. 21, at 6:30 p.m. Join the Bowling and Pizza Party on Sunday, Feb. 27,
from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at the Wabash Cannonball Lanes. A Grief Support group meets at the Church of Christ at Wabash, 1904 N. Wabash St, Wabash, every Monday at 3:30 p.m. You are welcome to join them. If you have questions, contact Donna Wendt, 260-782-2160. The Lagro Community Church also invites you to Sunday School from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. and worship service at 10:00 a.m. every Sunday. The speaker for Feb. 20 will be Tim Brown. Kids’ Klub at Lagro United Methodist Church is a group for Kindergarten through 6th grade. It meets every Wednesday that
Metro Schools is in session, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Bible stories, games, praise and worship songs, and supper are included. Parents who have questions can contact the church at lagroumchurch@gmail.com . Lagro United Methodist Church invites you to its Sunday morning services at 9:00 a.m. and Sunday school for all ages at 10 a.m. Youth group activities for students in the 4th through 12th grades are also offered. Those activities and times vary each month depending on the service project. For more information on youth programs, parents can email the church at LagroUMC@gmail.
com. The Food Pantry at Lagro Community Church is open the third Saturday of every month from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. in the basement. Please enter through the back door of the church. The Food Pantry is for Wabash County residents. For further information on donating food or for assistance please call 260-5714639. Northfield High School honored Mr. Dubois and Mrs. Michel during National Counseling Week. Congratulations and thanks to both of them. There are people in our community who are in need of our prayers at this time. Their names
remain on our lips and their concerns linger in our hearts. Let us not forget to personally be a presence in their lives, to offer hope and help. Their names need not be mentioned; God knows them by name. Lagro Happy Birthdays: Feb. 16 – Robin Daihl; Feb. 20 – Josh Gidley; Feb. 21 – Andrew Frieden; Feb. 22 – Arden Heagy. Do you have a birthday or anniversary to celebrate? Do you have a special event to share? If so, just send me an email at the address listed above, or text me at 260-571-2577. I’d love to share your special day or your community event. Let’s share the news!
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February 16, 2022
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LaFontaine Learning Academy is growing
The LaFontaine Learning Community is growing. Having started with only three rooms, the program has now grown to five rooms! Offering programs from infants 6 weeks old to school age children. LaFontaine Learning Community is a Paths to Quality Level 1 program that also offers both full and parttime preschool for those children aged 3 and 4. Before and after school care and break care is also available, along with eLearning help for those in care for eLearning Days. CCDF vouchers are also accepted. Contact Amanda Lovett, 765-371-2044, to request a tour, find out about staff or child care openings, and see how you can support this local program. LAFONTAINE CHRISTIAN CHURCH NEWS: Supper Start Registration closes March 4 at 12:30 a.m. for 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students. UPCOMING DATES March 4-5 4–5:30 p.m. LOCATION The Creek Church 6430 S Franklin Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46259 ATTENDEE TYPES Student $50 Your kids won’t want to miss this year’s Super Start event where they will experience the incredible truth of the Gospel message through the excitement and exhilaration of a competitive escape room challenge! At Super Start, the kids will be challenged to take ownership of the gospel message. They will learn that Jesus is the only key to unlock their way from sin and brokenness to God and to the life he has in store for us: Walking with
him as a kingdom worker! Experience the good news of the free gift of salvation for all unlocked through Jesus! March 4-5 We will meet at the church right after school on the Friday! Bring a sack dinner with you to eat on the bus ride to Indianapolis We will be staying in a hotel Friday night and then we will be coming home after the event ends at 3 p.m. Saturday. Student Cost $50 each LAFONTAINE BANK ROBBERY: This picture is of Gene Alger also known as “The College Boy Bandit.” Here is his story. On a bright sunny day in October of 1929, LaFontaine was a peaceful community with a lot happening. There were a lot of young people in town that day attending a youth convention at the Christian Church. During their free time they were walking around town going into many of the local businesses especially those with a soda fountain. The man running the corner restaurant across from the bank was busy selling a lot of Coca-Cola and sandwiches. His cash register was unusually full from all the teenagers who had been in so far that day most of whom had come in groups of three or four. One customer, however, piqued his interest. First, he
was alone sitting by himself and constantly looking out the window toward the bank. He was a young man, thin in build and seemed to be very nervous. He ordered a CocaCola and as the restaurant owner watched he spiked his drink with some white powder. After drinking his mysterious concoction, the young man departed. The restaurateur fearful of being robbed grabbed his day’s receipts and headed to the bank. But it wasn’t his store but the bank the stranger was interested in. Assistant cashier, Paul Clupper, was on duty in the bank and busy separating the new bills that had come in from the old. He and Miss Waggoner were working in the cashier’s cage when the mysterious young man, later identified as Alger, approached them. He poked a gun through the bars of the cage and demanded what money they had, getting about $1,500 in cash. He then ran from the bank Clupper, armed with the cashier’s gun and Miss Waggoner were in hot pursuit. Alger raced down a side street, then began running backwards. He fell and Clupper aimed his revolver and pulled the trigger. The gun didn’t go off and the hapless robber leapt to his feet, seconds before Miss Waggoner could grab him. He then raced madly to his getaway car, where his wife gunned the engine and carried him away as he balanced on the running board, gun and money bag in hand. Oddly, the Alger’s stopped at a gas station on the edge of town to refuel.
When the station owner received news of the robbery, within moments of selling the Alger’s gas, he gave chase in his car but lost them. Thus began the career of the “College Boy Bandit” Gene Alger. After robbing the LaFontaine Bank, Alger and his “pretty red-haired bride” headed south robbing other banks on the way-Matthew’s State Bank, Summitville, and Gaston. His last robbery was Paris Crossing State Bank in Jennings County near Vernon. He was caught in Jeffersonville, and sent to Vernon for trial where he was found guilty and sentenced to 15 years at the State Reformatory. Alger knew Wabash County well. In fact, he had family here. Miss Waggoner, the teller, later recalled that he had been to some of her family reunions. Alger had been a student at Butler University. In May 1927, he shot and killed an Indianapolis policeman while trying to steal a car. He received a 2-to-10year sentence. Gov. Harry Leslie had paroled him in May 1929. His “pretty red-haired bride” was returned to Wabash to face charges she helped him to rob the LaFontaine Bank. For several weeks in 1929 Alger and his wife were front page news across the United States. Sad to say his story does not end there. As stated, he went to the State Reformatory but was later transferred to Michigan City State Prison. In 1931 he managed to escape but was recaptured at Henryville, In. DO YOU recog-
The Town of LaFontaine following the 1977 snowstorm.
nize this community (pictured above)? This is an aerial view of LaFontaine at the height of the 1977 snowstorm. On Jan. 27, an arctic front swept southward into Wabash County. What was described as a “wall of snow” accompanied the front. The day before the temperature was in the 40s. It dropped 25 degrees. In its wake it left up to 20 inches of snow. The county sheriff declared a snow disaster and all country roads and state roads were closed. Drifts were said to be up to 12 feet high in some areas. All county schools were closed. A city official said “there is so much snow out there, there isn’t any place to put it.” County commissioners said the county was authorized to call on privately owned construction firms to utilize their heavy equipment for snow removal. On top of that business and factories were asked to lower their thermostats to conserve energy. Somehow, we managed to survive only to face the blizzard of 1978. Then the snowstorm of 1996 (15 inches in spring), 2009 (13 inches and 1 inch of ice), 2011 (The Ground Hog Day Blizzard ice snow and 50,000 without power. TAMMY FARLOW was featured in Southwood High School’s Teacher Tuesday on
Facebook. “I teach because I enjoy students’ sense of accomplishment and excitement for
TAMMY FARLOW
life,” she said, adding that “at the same time I learn along with students and have an outlet for creativity. I find great joy in setting goals and meeting them.” Over the years her goals change: to read a number of books, to travel, to walk a number of miles JOSIAH WHITE’S would like to welcome these new employees to the team! Shawnda Bilbee, Kara Russell, Jewel Buck, and Lori Rietman. LAFONTAINE CHRISTIAN CHURCH If you have a youngster newborn-5 years old, bring them out to Wiggles and Giggles!! This a weekly event for you to come and enjoy time with your little one while we have a small bible lesson song, dancing, games, crafts, snacks and more! This is a free event! All you have to do is come to have some fun! Any questions, contact Lizzy Makin at 765716-4896 SOUTHWOOD JR/SR HIGH SCHOOL week’s Staff Spotlight is Amy Long, Secretary/Nurse at
Southwood High School. Mrs. Long was nominated by coworker Beth Eagan with these words: “Mrs. Long wears many hats every day. Her days have been incredibly full but she always has a smile on her face, and a cheerful greeting for everyone. She never hesitates to be of assistance. On a personal note, Amy has been an incredible help to me as I have continued my cancer journey recovery. Her expertise, encouragement and helpfulness is beyond measure.”
MAKENNA HUNTER
SOUTHWOOD KNIGHT OF THE WEEK is Makenna Hunter, a 7th grader at SHS. Makenna’s dream school is Julliard and if she was stranded on an island, she would bring a book on how to build rafts! Congrats on your week of honor! HAPPY BIRTHDAY Ashley Vandermark Feb. 19, Devid Finch Feb. 20, David Murphy Feb. 21, Kendall Saril Feb. 22, Travis Piercy, Colton Oliver, Katie Hullinger Feb. 23, SEND YOUR NEWS and pictures to me by Thursday to etheleib@gmail.co m.
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The Paper of Wabash County
February 16, 2022
The Paper of Wabash County
February 16, 2022
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Sharp Creek classes raise $2,000-plus for Lions Club
URBANA
The Urbana each puppy. Lions and Sharp Mrs. Riggle’s Creek School comclass of 21 kids bined forces along raised the most with the funds and help of were the kids’ awarded parents, an ice teachers, cream businessparty prees, other sented by organizathe tions and Urbana others Lions. who Michael Mich Michael ael Sn Snell ell Lions donated 260-774-3665 Luke raised pinkynova71@ Hunt, over hotmail.com Michael $2,057. and This is Bonita enough funds to Snell were present sponsor five pupto celebrate with pies. them and to dish Urbana Lion out some tasty ice Luke Hunt cream to the winexplained to Tina ners. Riggle’s class about The Urbana what the class and Lions Club would school will receive like to thank everyfrom Leader Dog. one who was involved or donated The school will to this much needreceive five puppy pictures along with ed cause for the blind and vision their names, a cerimpaired. A big tificate of recognithank you goes to tion, a letter of Sharp Creeks thanks and a sponKiwanis Club sor certificate for
Tina Riggle and her class raised the most in donations for the leader dog fundraiser and won an ice cream party from the Urbana Lions Club. youth. They helped kick this program off. A thank you goes out to Lindsay Culver for her help and informing the youth about the Leader Dog program and what it does for the blind. The Urbana Lions Club want to congratulate Mrs. Riggle’s class for being triumphant in being the class that collected the most in donations. Blood Drive: This is a heads-up notification that the Urbana Yoke Parish Church along with the Outreach Committee will be hosting a blood drive this Feb. 16, 2022. This activity will be held at the Urbana Community building. This life saving
item is very much in short supply. If you can give, please do so and give often. The blood that you give could be the blood that saves a life. You can go on line at the American Red Cross site and Google blood drive locations to make your appointment. ECHO RACING will be racing on Feb. 19 at the Urbana Community building at 2 p.m. All youth ages 7-16 are invited to come and race. There is no charge for this activity. The Urbana Lions Club is the primary sponsor. Tell your parents and come on down and give us a try. You may find out you really like it. It is not too
Preschool plans open house
If you are interested or would like to enroll your child at The Peace Patch Preschool for the 2022-23 school year, come and visit our teachers and see the preschool classrooms at our enrollment and open house on March 1, 6:307:30 p.m. at the Manchester Church of the Brethren (1306 North Beckley Street) in North Manchester. 3 & 4 Year Old Class (3 by August 1). 4 & 5 Year Old Class (4 by August 1). Contact the church at 9827523 with questions. FRANCES SLOCUM CHAPTER, DAR: The monthly meeting of the Frances Slocum Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) took place on
Tuesday, Feb 8 at the GrandstaffHentgen Activity Room, Wabash. The meeting opened with the DAR ritual, followed with devotions by Tamra Wise. The February President General’s message from Denise Doring VanBuren was shared by Joyce Joy-Baker. “As we commemorate AfricanAmerican History Month, we also highlight early African-American preachers, including the inspiring life of Lemuel Haynes. Haynes was a native of West Hartford, Conn., who served in the militia during the American Revolution and preached against the slave trade. Ordained in the
Congregational Church in 1785, he accepted a call to pastor the West Parish Church of Rutland, Vt., where he remained for three decades.” The next meeting of the Frances Slocum Chapter will be March 8, 2022 at the Grandstaff-Hentgen Activity Room, Wabash. Prospective members and guests are always welcome to attend. DAR membership is open to any woman 18 years of age, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution. Those having questions about their family history lineage information may contact www.dar.org or Tamra Wise at 574-527-2208 or Barbara Amiss at 260-9824376. DRIVE THRU FOC FELLOWSHIP MEAL hosted by the Fellowship of Churches is held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the Continued on Page 20.
late to earn points for the A and B Class Championship. If you have any questions or concerns give me a call. I will answer all. We are ECHO. Condolences to Betty Herron’s family and friends from Michael and Bonita Snell, Melody Sullivan’s family and friends from Michael and Bonita Snell, William Yentes’s family and friends from the Urbana Community. Prayer concerns: Julie Miller, Mary Ann Mast, John Eltzroth, Alma DeVore, Phyllis Baker, Ron Baer, Nancy Christie, Ruth Summers, Paxton Wright, Jim and Pat Hartley,
Coy Eads and his parents and sisters, Joni Fox, our Nation and the leaders, our military personnel, our frontline responders and health providers. If anyone would like to have their name added or removed from prayer concerns, please contact me. The Breakfast Bunch met at the Fried Egg on Feb. 9. They try to meet every Wednesday and have breakfast together and talk about what is happening. Those attending were Tom and Joyce Willcox, Larry and Nancy Meyers, Peggy Dilling and Pat McNabney. If you know any of them, come on down and join in
on the fun or at least have breakfast with them. Enjoy. Birthday wishes: Feb. 3 Jerry Long, Feb. 3 Terry Krom, Feb. 4 Emily Burns, Feb. 6 Bud Winters, Feb. 7 Sam Leland, Feb. 8 Shawn Price, Feb. 12 Cody White, Feb. 12 Jeanne Urschel, Feb. 15 McKenzie Thornsbury, Feb. 19 Cindy Runkel, Feb. 20 Vanessa Wilcox, Feb. 21 Ed Fitch and Feb. 22 Lily Griffey.
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Roann firefighters plan annual dinner
The Roann Volunteer Fire Department is having their annual Grilled Tenderloin Dinner on Feb. 26th
from 11am-6pm at the Community Building. It will be a drive-through this year. Cost is $10 for either a meal (Meat, Applesauce, and Green Beans) or meat only. Money from this will be used to update equipment or purchase new. Also, a reminder, the Department is accepting applications for new members. Contact any current member or send an email to vfd811@gmail.com for an application. PASTOR BALMER of The Roann United Methodist Church sermon for Feb. 20th will be from Psalm 139:1-6 titled “God is AllKnowing”. You are invited to worship in person or on Facebook at 9am. UPCOMING DATES: Feb. 24 – Happy Homemakers, 9am; Feb. 26 – RFD Tenderloin Dinner, 11am-6pm; March 19 – Benefit Fish Meal, Tractor Group; March 26 – Spaghetti Meal, The Heritage Group. OUR PRAYERS go out to: Kaylean Zintsmaster, Betty Boyer, Coy Eads, Rhonda Van Buskirk, Ken Musselman, Rob Mace, Tim Kersey, Norma Trump, Ross Trump, Dan Fouts, Jim Huffman, Bill
Palmer, Larry Meyer, and our country. Stay safe and stay healthy. God bless you all! CELEBRATING ANNIVERSARIES: Feb. 16 – Mr. & Mrs. A.J. Cartwright; Feb. 19 – Mr. & Mrs. Malvern Winters; Feb. 20 – Mr. & Mrs. Todd Vigar; Feb. 22 – Mr. & Mrs. Todd Wall and Mr. & Mrs. Mike Pell. CELEBRATING BIRTHDAYS: Feb. 16 – Nancy Vigar, Kimberly Baer, and Paige Cooley; Feb. 17 – Kenneth Emley; Feb. 18 – Todd Krom and Bob Kramer; Feb. 19 – Finn Fairchild, Bobby Haecker, Rex Vigar, and Penelope Galley; Feb. 21 – Peggy Myers; Feb. 22 – Waylon McWhirt and Beverly Renz. PASTOR ROB Mace’s Thoughts for the Week: Everyone wants to believe they or their loved one is going to heaven when they pass from this life. The hope is that they are set free from the pain and suffering of this life and that now they are experiencing peace and rest. But the question that needs to be asked is, “How do we know we or our loved ones are going to heaven?” with all the various theories and philosophies concerning the qualifications for a heavenly existence. When people pass away, the families want it stated that their loved one is in heaven, but
how do we know that? How does one receive the opportunity to transition from this life into a heavenly one? Acts four teaches that Jesus Christ is the Messiah and in his name is the only name in which one can be saved. There is salvation in no one else! God sent his son to a world that he loved, to pay the penalty for their sin, so mankind could be made right with a holy God. Salvation is not of works. Salvation is not just about love. Salvation is not just about escaping eternal damnation. Salvation is about a loving God who paid the penalty of sin, so mankind could be made right with a holy God and have their name written in the Book of Life and live eternally in Heaven. So, how do we know if we or our loved one’s name is written in the Book of Life? We know if we confess Jesus Christ as our Lord and believe that God raised him from the dead, confess Jesus as the one who God, the father, gave as payment for our sin so that we are made a new creation in Christ Jesus. It is not about becoming perfect, or performing some act, or desiring heaven. Salvation is a gift of eternal life in heaven. You receive that gift as the Holy Spirit convicts you
ROANN AND NORTHERN MIAMI
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NM news Ann Me Ann Meyer yer 765-833-2614 meyerann@ centurylink.net
of your need of grace and you openly accept that grace in your life. So, one can know of their loved one’s salvation as that person accepts the grace of God in their life. Transformation comes not as a part of being saved, but is the power of God’s grace working in a life that is a constant process. A changed life is a product of God’s grace. So don’t wait to accept Christ until you change. God’s grace is the agent of change. Salvation is the agent of a new life, where the old man is put away and made new. So, we need to make sure we ask our loved ones how they know they are saved. The answer will reveal the reality of where they are in Christ. We need more discussion in how one knows they are in Christ. We will never know if we do not. I CAN BE reached by email at meyerann@centurylink.net or at the Roann United Methodist Church on Tuesday and Thursday, 10am1pm. Also, I am reachable by phone 765-833-2614. News deadline will be Wednesday at 10am to appear in the next weeks paper.
Purdue Extension plans farmland series Purdue Extension’s Farmland for the Next Generation program is designed to help attendees achieve their land acquisition goals. The five-session virtual interactive series will address
three paths to land access: leasing, purchasing and receiving land through inheritance or gift. It uses a skillsbased approach that focuses on what people need to be able to do, not
just on what they need to know. The series will be offered 6:30-8:30 p.m. ET Monday evenings Feb. 21 through March 21. The registration fee is $50. Individuals can sign up online by
February 16, 2022
Feb. 14. For more information, or if you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, contact Kathryn Weiss at 219-2858620 ext. 2800 or weiss44@purdue.edu.
month at the Zion Lutheran Church from 4:30-6 p.m. The church is located at 113 W. Main Street. Guests should drive up in front of the Zion Lutheran Church for pickup. FOC THRIFT STORE: Hours are Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Closed Sundays and Mondays. Guidelines will be in place for the safety of visitors and staff. Use back door for all donations. The Thrift Store is located at 410 N. Market Street, North Manchester. MANCHESTER MEALS-ONWHEELS provides meals prepared according to the
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dietary needs, as recommended by their physician. Each weekday between 11 a.m. and noon a hot lunch and a cold evening meal are delivered by volunteer drivers to the client’s homes. Clients can choose how often to receive meals. To sign up for meals call the office at 260-982-6010 and talk with an office
volunteer or leave a voice mail message. THURSDAY’S CHILD located at 410 N. Market St., next door to The Thrift Shop, serves the youngest among us. Thursday’s Child has clothes, diapers, wipes, blankets, shoes, etc. Everything is FREE. Thursday’s Child is open on Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m.
February 16, 2022
The Paper of Wabash County
www.thepaperofwabash.com
ESSENTIAL SSENTIAL SS ENTIAL BUSINESSES USINESSES USIN ESSES
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The Paper of Wabash County
February 16, 2022
The Paper of Wabash County, P.O. Box 603, Wabash, IN 46992. Classified Ads: $9.50 for first 20 words in advance: 15¢ each word thereafter. Deadline 5:00 on Fridays
Employment
Mobile Homes
ARE YOU LOOKING to work independently? OTR Class A CDL driver needed, part-time or full-time you choose. Very flexible schedule working for an independent business with company-owned late model Peterbilts. Long haul, no touch. 5 years of Class A OTR experience required. Call Steve at 260-568-1585.
WANTED: DO you have a MOBILE HOME you want to sell? Call or text 574218-3300. We need single wides, double wides & modulars. Look forward to hearing from you!
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NEW HIRES Looking for someone with a valid driver’s license and those who are able to lift up to 100 pounds. If interested, office hours are from 8-4 M-F at 732 Falls Avenue, Wabash, IN 46992.
The Paper of Wabash County
February 16, 2022
www.thepaperofwabash.com
The Paper of Wabash County, P.O. Box 603, Wabash, IN 46992. Classified Ads: $9.50 for first 20 words in advance: 15¢ each word thereafter. Deadline 5:00 on Fridays
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for Laborer Position. This position is full-time with benefits in 90 days working swing-shift. STARTING HOURLY WAGE IS $20.62 AND AFTER 90 DAYS COULD EARN UP TO $27.58. Requirements to submit application: • High school diploma or GED • Pass 1 test at WorkOne
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The Paper of Wabash County
February 16, 2022