Know Your Neighbor
Area students look forward to 2025
Text and Photos
By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer
As a new year marches in, people across the globe set a list of New Year’s resolutions to create a better, more well-rounded version of themselves. Area students are no exception.
Darby Fitzsimmons is a fifth grader at Syracuse Elementary School, and she has some big hopes for the new year.
“I want to design my new room,” Fitzsimmons said. “I want to put one of the chairs that hangs from the ceiling and since it’s a new room, we’re going to paint it.”
Fitzsimmons decided on a gray-ish blue for the walls of her new bedroom, one of her favorite colors.
In the new year, she wants to dedicate more time to practicing one of her favorite sports: basketball. She currently plays on Syracuse’s school team as a point guard.
“My goal is to practice two hours a week more,” Fitzsimmons explained.
She also plans to expand her musical talents to include ukulele. She currently plays piano.
Mylah Eakright is a fourth grader at North Webster Elementary School. She aims to become a better athlete in the upcoming year.
“I want to try to play football,” Eakright stated. “I think it would be fun to tackle people and bring them down.”
Her favorite football team is the Indianapolis Colts.
In the new year, she wants to sharpen her gymnastic skills by learning how to do a front flip. She has already mastered a back flip. She likes to do flips on her trampoline.
“I also want to be better at basketball,” Eakright admitted.
She plays on North Webster’s school team.
“Maybe I will practice an extra hour or two a week,” she said.
She also plans to spend less time on her phone by putting it on “do not disturb” mode.
Spencer Schmidt is a first grader at Milford Elementary School. She has her sights set on being on the road in 2025.
“I want to go on road trips,” Schmidt said. Her dream road trip location is Mexico because “it is nice and warm” and she “loves tacos.”
Recently, Schmidt loved going on a road trip to Rich-
mond. In Richmond, she saw a lot of cows.
“While we were driving, there was a huge trailer of them,” Schmidt remembered. “Me and my mom love cows.”
In the new year, Schmidt also has a few recipes she wants to try.
“I want to make sugar cookies with my mom,” Schmidt said.
She loves helping her mom, Kelsey, in the kitchen.
Sophia Hines is a fifth grader at Leesburg Elementary School. She has her focus on athletics and academics in the new year.
“I want to try wrestling,” Hines said. “I want to join a wrestling team because I think it would be fun.”
She also wants to broaden her musical repertoire by learning how to learn how to play the drums.
“I want to try drums in the band because you get to be noisy,” Hines explained.
She currently has an electric and acoustic guitar. She hopes to learn some of Ed Sheeran’s, one of her favorite artists, songs on the guitar.
Academically, Hines wants to dedicate more time to her favorite school subject: math.
“I like math because of the problems you get to solve,” Hines said. “I am really good at math.”
In the new year, she wants to get a jump start by learning algebra.
Charlie Pyle has big, Hollywood dreams going into 2025. He and some of his friends enjoy filming movies. In 2025, Pyle hopes to be able make a full-length, feature film with his friends.
“We play all the parts in our movies,” Pyle explained. “We use an IPad because there’s this app on it called iMovie.”
In addition to original pieces, the group of young actors enjoy to create shot-for-shot remakes of their favorite movies, including Wolverine and Spiderman.
In the new year, he hopes to be able to spend more time crafting his superhero costume. His superhero persona is “Blue Spider.”
“When I am a grown-up or teenager, I am going to wear the costume and save people’s lives,” Pyle explained. “So like if a bank is being robbed, I am going to stop that.”
Pyle is also excited for 2025 because he is really looking forward to going on a field trip to Junior Achievement’s BizTown.
“You can do whatever job you want,” Pyle exclaimed. “So I am going to be a superhero.”
BLUE SPIDER — Jefferson Elementary School fifth grader Charlie Pyle wants to dedicate more time to creating his superhero suit. His superhero alter ego is called Blue Spider.
DO NOT DISTURB — Mylah Eakright, a North Webster Elementary School fourth grader, plans to spend less time on her phone in the new year by placing it on “do not disturb” mode.
HAPPY DANCE — Milford Elementary School first grader Spencer Schmidt happy dances when she recalls seeing a trailer full of her and her mom, Kelsey’s favorite animal, cows, on their road trip to Richmond.
MATHEMATICS — In the new year, Leesburg Elementary School fifth grader Sophia Hines wants to dedicate more time to her favorite school subject, math. She loves math because of the difficult problems she can solve.
NEW YEAR, NEW ROOM — Darby Fitzsimmons, Syracuse Elementary School fifth grader, hopes to design her new room in 2025. She has some big ideas for new space, including painting the walls her favorite color, a grayish blue.
Warsaw native loves creating little free libraries
By LAUREN ZEUGNER Staff Writer
When Warsaw native, Tony Garza, left for college, he headed for Iowa State University where he earned a degree in architectural landscaping. Just as he graduated, the job market for landscape architects was difficult. So a thought about attending law school moved from the back of his mind to the front.
As a student in high school, college and law school, Garza said he wasn’t much of a reader. His love of reading really didn’t start until after law school.
Then he discovered little free libraries and learned there is an app to find little free libraries around the country. This came in handy for him when he left the book he was reading at home while traveling. He used the app to find little free libraries and the second one he checked out, had a copy of the book he was reading.
“It’s hard to argue access to books,” he said.
Soon after, Garza was asked to build a little free library for a friend in Mentone. He repurposed a cabinet he found at Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore, putting a roof on it and filling it with donated books.
That library is located on Jackson Street in Mentone.
Since that first little free library, Garza has made four and installed them, made a fifth someone else installed. He has a sixth one waiting to be installed and a seventh is in his garage in process.
He also made a little free library he put on castors for a professor at Purdue Fort Wayne. She makes a point of pushing the library out in the hall so students and others may peruse the selections.
A ninth little library is attached to an adult tricycle.
While most of the stewards of the little free libraries Garza has made refill their libraries, Garza uses this little free library to refurbish others in the community.
There are two in Winona Lake which get a lot of use. One holds books for adults, while the other holds books for kids. Garza said in the summer, the children’s little library can be refilled each week.
To refill the libraries, Garza will purchase bundles of books from Half Priced Books. He’s also accepted donations.
“One person literally dropped 500 hard backs off when they were downsizing,” he said.
A friend was at a garage sale
by the playground at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church in Warsaw. Photo by Lauren Zeugner. and stumbled upon five or six boxes of books, so he grabbed them for Garza.
Another donation came when a pre-school relocated and it donated several totes full of books for Garza to distribute.
From late May to press time, Garza has distributed 2,100 books. He said he didn’t expect the little free library project to grow the way it did.
He’s even taken his tricycle to S.T.E.M. literacy night, which was last year at Washington
S.T.E.M. Academy. For that event, Garza purchased books from Scholastic in Spanish and French.
Garza noted he’s fallen a tad behind when it comes to fulfilling requests for little free libraries. And it is hard for readers to part with a book, unless they’re going somewhere where someone else can enjoy it.
“The community has been very supportive and generous with their books,” he said.
As for Garza, he likes to read
historical fiction and murder mysteries. He recently went through a period reading about the forgotten women of World War II.
Another hobby Garza has is studying languages. He started doing that after a trip to Italy. He’s currently working on learning French. For Christmas, his staff gave him some French easy readers and a French crossword puzzle book.
Garza is currently serving as judge pro tempore for Judge Douglas M. Falh while he is deployed by the military for service.
Local students named to dean’s list
The following local students were recently named to the dean’s list of their respective colleges/universities: Belmont University
Winona Lake — Tessa Wood Indiana State University
Cromwell — Alexa Gomez-Jones, Avery Gum-Hales
Milford — Ty Brooks
North Webster — Ian Kaase
Syracuse — Emma Yoder
Warsaw — Reid Marie Deaton, Icker Salazar University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Wakarusa — Abigail Weaver
SHARING THE LOVE OF READING Anthony Garza, a Warsaw native, makes and maintains little free libraries around the community. He’s shown here with a little free library located
Earth Mother’s Offerings moves to bigger location
By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer
Earth Mother’s Offerings, Syracuse’s one-stop-shop for all things metaphysical, has moved to a bigger location, 200 E. Pickwick Drive. A ribbon cutting was held on Friday, Dec. 13, to celebrate the move.
Karen Harrington, owner, started her business journey when she would sell her products at the Wawasee Middle School PTO Gift and Craft Bazaar. She also would run a booth at the Syracuse Artisans and Farmers Market. Her store and brand has been growing ever since.
Beef cattle producers invited to dinner meeting
Beef cattle producers in Elkhart, Kosciusko, Lake, LaPorte, Marshall, Porter, St. Joseph and Starke counties (area 10) are invited to a free Indiana Beef Cattle Association meeting at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025.
The meeting will be held at Christo’s Banquet Center, 830 Lincolnway E., Plymouth.
The event will include a complimentary dinner, opportunities for socializing, door prizes and presentations by industry specialists. One key topic will be the market outlook and how to decide whether to keep or sell heifers.
To attend, make a reservation by Monday, Dec. 30, by calling Kathryn Jennings, ag and natural resources animal production educator at the Elkhart County Extension Office, at (574) 5330554.
If you have questions or need an accommodation, call (574) 533-0554 by Dec 30 or send an email to emailjennin30@purdue.edu.
Anyone younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Earth Mother’s Offerings is woman and veteran owned. Harrington offers a permanent 10% veteran discount. Some of the products offered in her store are fossils, crystals, jewelry and shower fizzes, crafted with crystal powders.
“I hope when people come they feel a sense of community,” Harrington explained. “Like they are able to network with like-minded people.”
In the back of the store is the “Zen Den.” Here, guests can connect metaphysically through practitioners Rev. Sabra LaPato, Midwest Shaman; Kayla
Knuckles, palmist and oracle reader; and Tamela Meck, energy healer.
“The Zen Den is a metaphysical studio,” Harrington said. “It is where our practitioners offer services and where we hold workshops.”
Every Wednesday at 7 p.m., Harrington goes live via Earth Mother’s Offerings Facebook page to showcase new product arrivals and restocking. Inventory can be claimed within the live sessions.
Harrington also posts upcoming events to its Facebook page. Earth Mother’s Offerings will
be hosting “Elevate Your Spirit Into 2025” from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18. Attendees can look forward to psychic readings, spirit animal connections, energy healing, store-wide sales, and metaphysical and spiritual community.
“It’s a night of celestial connection, psychic insights and cosmic camaraderie,” Harrington explained.
Earth Mother’s Offerings is open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.
To contact the store, call (574) 457-6571 or connect with the store via social media channels, @simplycomplicateddkaren, TikTok, Facebook and Instagram; ourearthmother.com, Etsy, and earthmothersofferings.com.
BIGGER
Friday, Dec. 13, to celebrate Earth Mother’s Offerings’ move into a bigger location at 200 E. Pickwick Drive, Syracuse. To stayup-to date on the store’s products and events, follow it on Facebook and other social media channels.
Pictured in the front row from left are Jason Dewart, Interra Credit Union; Ashley Dillon,
Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber executive director; Melody Cusick, ReMax Partners; Karen Harrington, Earth Mother’s Offerings; Jeanetta Slabaugh, Horizon Bank; and Melissa Longenecker, ReMax Partners. In the back row are Sheryl Colquitt, Eastlund Funeral Home, and Dan Buchman, State Farm. Photo by Marissa Sweatland.
Animal Welfare League receives $20K grant
Fort Wayne Beagle Club President Mike Clabaugh recently visited the Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County to award the group with a grant for $20,000.
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Grocery
The Fort Wayne Beagle Club, located in Huntington, is a private nonprofit foundation, which has awarded grants to nonprofit animal shelters in several northeast Indiana counties.
The Fort Wayne Beagle Club
awarded AWL the money to help with canine vaccines, spay/neuter, micro-chipping, food and other medical care.
“I can’t thank you enough,” said AWL Executive Director Tonya Blanchard. “We have been truly blessed by your kindness and generosity, and I am deeply grateful. Together, we have the power to create a brighter future for homeless pets by giving them the love, care
and second chances they deserve. Thank you for this wonderful gift.”
“We have absolute gratitude to the Beagle Club for helping with health care costs for our shelter puppies and dogs,” said AWL board President John Lantz. “We thank you for believing in what we do at the Animal Welfare League and sharing our passion that we all have for helping homeless pets in Kosciusko County.”
Area communities receive Indiana Humanities grants
Dozens of cultural institutions, libraries, universities and other nonprofit organizations in nearly 60 communities across the state received grants from Indiana Humanities to provide public humanities programs this year.
Among area communities receiving grants were Ligonier, Syracuse and Winona Lake.
Projects supported by Indiana Humanities funding include an
oral history training, an exhibition on the Potawatomi people of northwest Indiana, a celebration of Japanese language and culture, a Civil War festival, documentaries on Indiana’s Latino heritage and more.
“Indiana Humanities is committed to ensuring that all Hoosiers benefit from cultural programming,” said George Hanlin, director of grants at Indiana Humanities. “I’m pleased that
Ashlyn Feller named to
president’s list
The following student was among over 580 Bob Jones University students named to the president’s list for high academic achievement during the fall 2024 semester: Ashlyn Feller, a senior
visual studies major from Nappanee.
To qualify for the president’s list, students must earn a 3.75 or higher grade point average for the semester.
we’ve awarded funds to so many groups across the state and we’ve been able to serve such a diverse group of people.”
Indiana Humanities awarded: 44 Action Grants, 51 Advancing Racial Equity Collection Development Grants, 18 Historic Preservation Education Grants, eight INcommon Grants, 29 One State/One Story Community Read Grants, one PreservINg Main Street Grant, and five Wilma Gibbs Moore Fellowships, totaling approximately $317,000.
Indiana Humanities will offer approximately $300,000 in grants in 2025, including funds, which will enhance accessibility efforts for public programs, and help Hoosiers commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.
The nonprofit plans to host webinars about its offerings and anticipates holding in-person grant workshops around the state to provide additional information about the grant guidelines and application instructions.
For more information about Indiana Humanities’ grants, contact George Hanlin, director of grants, at ghanlin@indianahumanities.org.
from the Fort Wayne Beagle Club.
Pictured from left are John Lantz, Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County board president; Tonya Blanchard, AWL executive director; and Mike Clabaugh, Fort Wayne Beagle Club’s president. Photo provided by the Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County.
Surprising places germs are hiding at work
Each year, between October and May, cold and flu season rears its ugly head in the U.S. and causes employers to lose
hundreds of billions of dollars annually in costs associated with absenteeism. To help keep the spread of
illness at bay, health agencies implore businesses to promote hand-washing and practiceheightened sanitation efforts
Tri Kappa state scholarship submission deadline is Feb. 1
The state organization of Tri Kappa will award a variety of scholarships to college students throughout Indiana in the spring.
Tri Kappa has provided scholarship awards since 1914, recognizing students on the local, province and state levels. Chapters, provinces and the state organization combined gave more than $1.5 million in 2024 to honor academic achievement.
Scholarship chair Elle Turley of the Warsaw Alpha Lambda Chapter, is currently seeking applicants for the following state scholarships:
Academic Scholarships
To apply for a $1,000 scholarship, students must be currently at least a sophomore or be in the second year of a community or junior college and transferring to a four-year program at the time of application. Students must plan to be enrolled full time during the subsequent school year in a baccalaureate or graduate program.
Sophomore status refers to hours completed; applicants must have completed at least 30 semester hours (36 quarter hours) prior to an application.
Criteria used by the Tri Kappa selection committee are academic achievement, strong goals and extracurricular and work experiences.
Key And Vocational
Scholarships
These scholarships are $1,000 and are directed to those students who have no previous degree beyond high school and have had a lapse in their education for at least five years. Those students enrolled in an accredited school offering an associate or baccalaureate degree, who have completed one semester, may apply.
Vocational applicants should be students who will be enrolled in a post-high school accredited vocational, technical or trade certification program.
Criteria used by the Tri Kappa selection committee for these two scholarships are academic achievement, strong goals and community and work experiences.
Fine Arts Scholarships
Students majoring in art, art therapy, dance, drama, music or music therapy are eligible. To apply for a $1,000 scholarship, students must be currently enrolled
in an accredited baccalaureate or graduate degree program, having completed at least one academic year following high school graduation.
The Twanette Nutter Fleming Music Award
Applicants for this award must be enrolled in a fully-accredited course of study leading to a degree to teach music in a private, public or parochial school. They must have completed at least one academic year, following high school graduation. The amount of the scholarship varies.
Students wishing to apply for any of these scholarships are encouraged to contact Turley at eturley@sym.com for an application.
Application deadline to the Warsaw Alpha Lambda chapter is Feb. 1, to be considered for submittal to the State Tri Kappa organization.
In addition to state scholarships, the Warsaw Alpha Lambda Chapter of Tri Kappa also provides local scholarships. Contact your high school guidance counselor or the Warsaw Alpha Lambda Scholarship chair for further details.
Boomerang food program expands to all Whitko schools
Through funding received from the Whitley County Health Department/Health First Indiana Grant, Whitko Community Schools’ corporation nurse Stephanie Meyer recently announced the Boomerang Backpacks program will expand to students at Whitko Junior/Senior High School and South Whitley Elementary School.
Boomerang Backpacks is a local, nonprofit organization. Its mission is to help provide weekend nourishment to children, who may face food insecurity, and to help support families who have a need for more groceries. This is a self-elect program, available to anyone who would like to participate. There is a simple letter parents and guardians need to sign and return to
participate in the program.
The “backpacks” contain nonperishable foods, breakfast items, protein-rich meals and snacks, which children will collect at their schools at the end of the school day each Friday.
This program for Whitko Junior/Senior High School and South Whitley Elementary School students begins Friday, Jan. 17. There is no cost to participate because the program is funded through grants, private donors and company sponsorships.
Through funding provided by the Kosciusko County Health Department’s Health First Kosciusko program, Pierceton Elementary School has had the Boomerang Backpacks program in place for kindergarten through third grade
students since September.
The money also established a mentor program, hygiene supply closet and an anti-bullying program at the school. A community church’s congregation provides backpacks to students in fourth through sixth grades.
Additional grants from Health First Kosciusko and donations from Cottage Watchman/E.F. Rhoades and Sons, Pierceton High School Alumni Association and the Kosciusko County Community Foundation will continue these programs for Pierceton Elementary School students.
For more information about Boomerang Backpacks, contact Stephanie Meyer at (260) 7230520 or email her at stephanie. meyer@whitko.org.
on common surfaces. The usual suspects? Doorknobs, stair railings, copiers and printers, keyboards, water fountains, vending machines, toilet handles and elevator buttons.
But there are some unsuspecting hot spots where germs could be festering and overlooking those areas could mean more sick days are on the horizon. Here are five places germs could be hiding in the workplace: External-Internal Mail Packages And Envelopes
Those interoffice or interdepartmental office envelopes are handy, but they could also be contaminated with some of the 10 million germs which are found on a typical office desk, as reported by a study from the University of Arizona. Although germs and viruses tend to thrive on harder surfaces, they can live on paper products.
Easy fix: Companies can invest in anti-microbial paper products, but transferring information digitally whenever possible is also an option. Allowing freshly-delivered packages to sit untouched for a few minutes can also help.
Coffee Pots And Microwaves
These two items commonly found in the break room have made the list of unsuspecting germ magnets, but not for the reasons one might think. Yes, germs can transmit from the handles, but there is a bigger problem lurking inside. Warm, wet areas become the quintessential breeding ground for mold. Mold presents its own set of health challenges but recent research also suggests mold can actually trigger the immune system into overreacting to the flu virus, increasing its severity.
Easy fix: Routinely sanitize the appliances inside and out to keep mold away.
Money
From yen to pesos to the almighty American dollar, it’s all dirty money when it comes to bacteria. The exchange of currency is a matter of doing business in many office buildings, but touching both bills and coins could open up the door to bacterial exposure, which could lead to some illnesses like pneumonia, sinus infections and MRSA.
Easy fix: While this one is a little tougher to fix, there are some ways to limit the exposure to bacteria from money in the office. One good way is to offer cash-less vending machines.
Pens
As technology would have it, writing utensils have taken a back seat to keyboards. Both harbor about as many germs as a public toilet seat, but pens tend to be a bit more communal in the workplace. Think signin sheets or receipts. Biting or chewing on a pen can become an unconscious mouthing behavior, but helping germs into the mouth is a surefire way to speed up virus transmission.
Easy fix: Have ample supply of pens to cut down on the need to share among coworkers and visitors and encourage employees to keep pens in their sanitation routines.
Window Sills And Blinds
Due to the possibility of moisture, window sills are another area where mold and mildew can develop. Additionally, blinds can collect and trap germs as well as block ultraviolet light, which studies show can be effective in killing germs inside.
Easy fix: Disinfect window sills regularly and inspect for any signs of mildew or mold. Consider eliminating blinds or disinfecting them often and keep them open during the daylight hours.
A Zimmer Biomet OrthoSolutions employee is among the inductees into the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame’s 2025 Women’s Silver Anniversary Team.
Karen Force-Spurgeon, who graduated from Columbus East High School, joins 17 other women on the team, selected based on their accomplishments as players throughout their careers in high school and college.
Force-Spurgeon averaged 16.5 points, 3.9 assists and 4.4 steals as a senior in leading Columbus East to a 16-5 season in 2000. Over four seasons for Coach Mel Good, the 5-8 guard totaled 891 points (9.9), while helping the Olympians to a 68-28 ledger, which included two sectional titles, two regional crowns and a semi-state championship in 1997.
She averaged 7.4 points and 3.9 assists as a freshman for a 20-5 state finalist squad. She netted just 5.5 points for a 16-9 squad as a sophomore in an inju-
ry-shortened season. She tallied 10.7 points, 3.4 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 3.4 steals for a 16-9 team, which won a Class 4A regional as a junior.
Force-Spurgeon was selected AP honorable mention All-State, Louisville Courier-Journal honorable mention All-State, Columbus Republic co-Player of the Year, IBCA honorable mention Academic All-State, and played in the HBCA East-West All-Star Classic as a senior. She also was named 1999 Republic Player of the Year and three-time Republic first-team All-Area.
Her team played in the Hall of Fame Classic in December 1997; she was named ISCA first-team All-State in soccer as a senior.
She went to Cornell University, where she totaled 1,257 points (11.6), 335 rebounds (3.1), 459 assists (4.3) and 193 steals (1.8) as a four-year starter in helping the Big Red to a 48-60 record.
Force-Spurgeon set Cornell re-
cords for season free throws (139 as junior), free throws in a game (15 at Yale on Feb. 1, 2003), and free throw accuracy in a game (1.000, 10-10 vs. Lafayette on Jan. 7, 2002).
She also is second on the school list for career assists, third for career-free throws (356), fourth for career steals, fifth for career 3-pointers (129), and sixth for career scoring. Her career assist total is 10th in Ivy League annals. She was the first player in Ivy League history to record more than 1,250 points and 400 assists.
Force-Spurgeon was named second-team all-Ivy as a senior, first-team all-Ivy as a junior and honorable mention all-Ivy as a freshman and sophomore. She also was selected to the 2001 Ivy League all-freshman team, won the 2001 Cornell Stenstrom Award, the 2004 Cornell Ronald P. Lynch Award and the team’s Best Defender Award twice and was a three-time team captain. She earned a bachelor’s degree in nutritional science from Cornell University in 2004, then was a college assistant coach from 2004-08 at Cornell, Manchester University and Manhattan College. She transitioned to sales, working for The CBORD Group Inc. from 2008-09 and Biomet Tristate Orthopedics from 200917, and, since 2017, as a territory
sales leader for Zimmer Biomet OrthoSolutions.
Force-Spurgeon was inducted into Cornell University Athletic Hall of Fame in 2015, inducted into Legends of the Ivy League in 2022, and named a Cornell University “Top 50 Women Athlete” in 2022.
The silver anniversary team recognizes players from the graduating class of 25 years earli-
er. The 2025 silver anniversary team includes 11 players, who were named to the 2000 Indiana All-Star squad. Seven other AllState caliber players are included to recognize the top of Indiana’s high school class of 2000.
A mid-day reception is free and open to the public, and will be held Saturday, April 26, at the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame Museum, New Castle.
Lake Doctor looks back at top five podcasts of 2024
The Lilly Center’s director, Dr. Nate Bosch, and his co-host, Suzie Light, have brought amazing lake stories via the Lake Doctor Podcast, which cover meteorology, turtles, fish populations and the economic impact of area lakes.
Here are the top stories from this year.
5. Anchored In S.T.E.M.: Transforming Schools And Lakeside Communities.
Educators, like Dr. David Hoffert and Dr. Rachael Hoffert, are essential partners to multiply the educational impact at the Lilly Center. They share stories of how water literacy is shaping both K-12 students and college students.
4. Lakes, Streams and Stewardship: The Role of Charitable Giving in Conservation.
Stephanie Overbey, CEO of
the Kosciusko County Community Foundation, helps viewers understand how they can make a lasting legacy on their beloved lakes. People will also hear about how her parents moved without telling Stephanie.
3. Liquid Gold: How Our Lakes Drive the Economy.
Join Kay Young, a Syracuse Realtor, as she discusses the economic importance of lakes and why the Lilly Center is dedicated to caring for lakes and streams in Kosciusko County.
2. Building a Legacy: The Origin Story of the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams.
The three founders of the Lilly Center gather from across the United States to reminisce and emphasize the importance of a replicable, sustainable water organization in Kosciusko County.
1. Freshwater Focus: Turtles,
Fish and Water Literacy. Syracuse Elementary School librarian, Leslie Tharp, shares her passion for turtles and lake conversations: something she is passing on to her sons. There will be much more to come in 2025.
Purge your papers Jan. 28
Do you find yourself getting overwhelmed with the stack of papers accumulating on the counter? It can be confusing knowing which papers to dispose of and which ones to keep. Learn about which paperwork to keep for a certain period of time and which ones can go in the garbage. Attend this free, educational program, presented by Emily Christ, Purdue University Extension educator in health and human sciences in Elkhart County.
This program is being offered at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28, in-person at the Purdue Extension Elkhart County office, located on the Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds. Register by calling Jenn at the extension office at (574) 533-0554 or emailing fink24@purdue.edu. This program and all programs of the Purdue University Extension Service are open to everyone. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, call Emily Christ at (574) 533-0554 by Jan. 14. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
WAVING TO THE CROWD — Columbus East graduate Karen Force waves to the crowd as she is inducted into the crowd as she is inducted into Cornell’s Hall of Fame in 2015. Force has been named to the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame’s Silver Anniversary Team. Photo submitted.
Sulfur needs in area crops increasing with time
By JEFF BURBRINK Ag and Natural Resources Extension Educator
Purdue Extension LaGrange County
Back in the 1970s, we used to hear a lot about acid rain. We learned in school that smokestack pollution, in particular the emission of sulfur from power plants, was blamed for the creation of acid rain.
These days, you do not hear much about acid rain. Environmental rules required companies to reduce their smoke emissions and have drastically cut the sulfur smoke and acid rain. In fact, most of today’s school kids have never even heard that phrase.
That is good news, because people were able to work together to solve a problem that seemed large and economically threatening at the time.
Today, you can find evidence in your backyard of how acid rain and the additional sulfur affected us. If you look at the bark on most trees, you will find growths that are gray to green, sometimes tinted with yellow or orange. These growths are called lichens.
Lichens are a combination of a moss and algae living together symbiotically. Lichens and moss can be found on many outdoor surfaces, including tree limbs, rocks, soils, rooftops and swing sets. Lichens are often mistakenly blamed for the decline of trees or branches, but truth be told, their tiny roots do not extend into the inner workings of the tree, and they do not steal nutrients from trees. In short, they just use the tree as a place to grow.
When I first started working for Purdue Extension, back in
the 1980s, it was rare to get calls about lichens. The acid rain was killing the lichens. Today, however, it is a different story. Our office gets calls from concerned citizens about lichens, worried the lichens are killing their trees. The truth be told, lichens are a sign that the air is cleaner now than in the past, and are not responsible for the death of the limbs.
Agriculture in our area has been affected decreasing sulfur as well. It was rare to see sulfur deficiencies in crops in our region in the 1970s and 1980s. In the late 1980s, the research suggests we were receiving 15-20 pounds of sulfate deposited, per acre, per year, in local fields. Today, that figure is well below 4 pounds an acre a year.
As a result, we now are seeing sulfur deficiencies in some crops, particularly wheat, soybeans and corn. Sandy soils and soils with very little organic matter are most likely to need additional sulfur. You are more likely to see sulfur deficiencies in wet fields
A DIFFERENT MATTER —
Mushroom-type of growth emerging from a tree is a different matter. Those fungal structures are an indication of internal rot and decay. Clearly, that tree has some serious internal rot going on. Ironically, you can see a few patches of greenish lichens growing on the bark of the rotting tree!
or where reduced tillage leaves much residue on the surface. The fact we are planting our crops earlier than we used to also contributes to early season sulfur deficiencies.
Shaun Casteel, Purdue’s Extension soybean specialist, has seen better responses to sulfur applications when applied earlier in the season rather than later. Among the results are improved nitrogen fixation, longer leaf retention, increases in seed size and increased bean yields. It’s certainly a subject you will want to discuss with your crop advisors this winter.
Animal Welfare League pays off its mortgage
The Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County was fortunate to receive a financial gift recently allowing the nonprofit to pay off the remaining mortgage for its campus.
In a statement released this week, it said, “AWL feels so blessed that this kind person left us financial support to settle this debt.”
AWL also acknowledged and expressed its heartfelt appreci-
ation to its lender, 1st Source Bank.
“AWL’s leadership wishes to extend its sincere thanks for believing in AWL and for the trust and confidence placed in it. The decision to support it has had a profound impact on the organization. The leadership is proud to have upheld its commitment by never missing a mortgage payment,” the press release stated.
Bowen Health names new northwest area executive director
Mark Groeller has been named Bowen Health’s executive director for northwest Indiana, with responsibility for outpatient operations in Kosciusko, Marshall, St. Joseph, Elkhart, and Starke counties.
“Mark comes to Bowen Health with a wealth of experience at an executive level as well as front line, day-to-day operations and has a passion for quality and compliance, and process improvement,” said Bowen Health COO Shannon Hannon. “Bowen Health is fortunate to have someone with Mark’s vast experience at a time of significant growth to help meet the needs of Hoosier minds and bodies.”
With more than 15 years of experience in the health care industry, most recently, Groeller was responsible for launching and growing a federally-qualified health center operation, which included mental health, primary care, dental, lab and pharmacy services. This specific experience matches well with Bowen Health’s current approach to integrated health care.
“Bowen Health’s multidisciplinary approach to care puts needed services under one roof, reducing the need for patients to travel to multiple locations, while ensuring medical records are securely held and accessible by Bowen’s caregivers who need
it,” said Groeller.
“Mark is walking in the door with great ideas and the experience to execute them,” said Dr. Rob Ryan, Bowen Health president and CEO. “He knows all too well that as the health care landscape changes, health care systems must adapt quickly. Bowen Health has always been a change agent, while keeping the focus on serving its patients with high-quality, accessible health care regardless of their income status. We look forward to working with Mark to strengthen our services in northwest Indiana and beyond.”
“I look forward to continuing Bowen Health’s tradition of offering quality, compassionate care, while finding additional ways to meet the needs of our communities,” said Groeller.
“Patients who choose to receive care at Bowen Health should
Cardinal Services, Warsaw, has received a $3,000 grant from the Dekko Foundation for its Claypool Head Start classroom. Dekko’s “Little Bit of Luck” grant will be used to purchase age-appropriate playground equipment to revitalize the small outdoor play area used by the children.
The Claypool classroom serves 18 pre-school children ages 3 to 5 years old. They will enjoy a new area filled with playthings, which incorporate balance, mobility, creative play, and tactile experiences, all while increasing opportunities for learning and healthy movement.
Included in the new space will be a covered sandbox, an outdoor kitchen play set, a Pump and Play Mud Kitchen, and Balance and Play Tree
know what to expect — a professional, caring environment with billing practices geared toward ensuring each person can receive affordable services, according to their unique situations.”
Steps. The equipment will be used daily during play time and also provides opportunities for classroom S.T.E.M. activities, complex arts and crafts, aerodynamics learning and nature exploration.
In thanking Dekko Foundation, Cardinal Services Executive Director Vickie Lootens said Cardinal’s Head Start team excels at nurturing children through play.
“With this grant, Dekko Foundation has given us an opportunity to create a wonderful new space where children will learn new things through play, and grow in body and mind,” Lootens said. “This is our goal for each Head Start child, and we are grateful to Dekko Foundation for their generous gift making it possible.”
MARK GROELLER
O bituaries
Linda
Kay Geaugh Avid Gardener
Linda Kay Geaugh, 76, Pierceton, a beloved matriarch and devoted friend, passed away on Dec. 23, 2024, in Lutheran Hospital of Indiana, Fort Wayne.
Born on Aug. 7, 1948, in Huntington, to Russell and Devona “De” (Warner) Farley Jr., Linda embodied warmth and kindness, leaving a lasting impression on her family and friends.
Linda began her journey as a stay-at-home mother, dedicating herself wholeheartedly to raising her children. Once they ventured out on their own, she embraced a new chapter of her life by working as a cook at Timbercrest Senior Living, where she dedicated 11 years of her life, before retiring in 2010.
A proud graduate of Pierceton High School in 1966, Linda always maintained a delightful simplicity in her life. She was a woman defined by her love for her family. On Feb. 24, 1968, Linda married George Geaugh. Linda cherished every moment spent with her children and especially delighted in creating lasting memories with her grandchildren. Her home was a sanctuary of laughter, love, and togetherness, filled with aromas of her baking and cooking that brought everyone closer.
An enthusiastic gardener, Linda found joy in nurturing her plants as much as her family. Camping at Chain O’ Lakes State Park was one of her favorite pastimes, where she relished the beauty of nature, while surrounded by those she adored. Linda was known for her meticulous planning and exceptional organizational skills, often seen with a list in hand to ensure her gatherings were nothing short of perfect.
The loving memory of Linda Kay Geaugh will be forever cherished by her husband of 56 years, George Geaugh, Pierceton; son, Darren (fiancée Christine Clendenen) Geaugh, Fort Wayne; daughter, Melissa Mishler, Columbia City; brother, Blaine (Becky) Farley, Naples, Fla.; and three grandchildren. Linda was preceded in death by her parents.
A private graveside will be held at a later date. Burial will be at Oaklawn Cemetery, North Manchester.
For those who wish to honor the memory of Linda Geaugh, memorial contributions may be made to the Kosciusko Cancer Care Fund, 1101 Park Ave., Winona Lake, IN 46590.
The family of Linda Geaugh has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.
Condolences may be emailed to mckeemortuary.com.
At Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, our caring and knowledgeable staff is here to guide you in making the best choices for your family - decisions that honor your loved one while remaining in your budget.
Choosing Titus Funeral Home’s Cremation Center for your loved ones cremation is ideal for many families. We own and operate our own crematory with licensed and certified staff.
Gwendolyn
“Gwen” S. Elliott
Gwendolyn “Gwen” S. Elliott, 65, Syracuse, died Dec. 24, 2024. Arrangements are pending with Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Syracuse.
Bernard Vermillon
Bernard Vermillon, 89, Warsaw, died Friday, Dec. 20, 2024. Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.
C O unty r ep O rt
Court News
Small Claims
The following small claims have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:
Money Matters Professional Collections LLC v. Katie Caldwell, $1,031.79; v. Barbara C. Carter, Roger L. Carter, $1,057.11; v. Sabrina J. Cunnington, $3,094.74; v. Raven R. Fancher, $1,710.24; v. Duran Griffith, $1,544.77; v. Joshua Grosswiler, $976.28; v. William M. Regula, $1,326.24; v. Christine A. Reynolds, $773.74; v. Karissa R. Schrader, $466.97; v. Nicole L. Southard, $2,151.74; v. Jamee Sutton-Kuhnz, $776.58; v. Katrina S. Truman, $467.54; v. Latisha Walters, $453.94; v. Kayanna M. Ward, $972.80; v. Jennifer Wilkinson, $1,857.90
Russell Runyon Jr. v. Amanda Everly, $400
CL Benz Co. LLC v. Tasha Parker, $341.07
AAA Acceptance Corp. v. Kelsey York, $5,024.04
Civil
Collections
The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler presiding:
Midland Credit Management Inc. v. Bret Bailey, $1,012.35; v. Phillip Kellogg, $764.85; v. Jeffrey Long, $8,456.01; v. Cierra Oaks, $2,349.62
Capital One NA v. Noe O. Castro, $3,579.24; v. Jessica Coquillard, $3,391.61; v. Aaron Dixon, $1,915.21; v. Charlotte R. Thatcher, $4,787.94
Jefferson Capital Systems LLC v. Katherine and Miles R. Cole, $6,959.22
TD Bank USA NA v. David Decker, $1,590.33
One Advantage LLC v. Hannah G. Dixon, $9,998.22
Westlake Services LLC, d/b/a Westlake Financial Services v. Tyler Evans, $13,348.61
Mariner Finance v. Brian R. Fowler, $2,628.91
American Express National Bank v. Alexandria Goldsmith, $16,591.67
OneMain Financial Group LLC v. Ricardo Guadian, $12,363.20
Cavalry SPV I LLC v. Veronica R. Hermosillo, $4,605.92
Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. Eric S. Hile, $1,315.43; v. Victor Howey, $1,606.09; v. Eliseo M. Martinez Jr., $1,346.12; v. Makayla Stansbery, $1,024.93
Glenbrook Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Randi L. Ritz, $16,457.49
Discover Bank v. Srivarshini Sudhagar, $8,625.19
Crown Asset Management LLC v. Adrian Visan, $12,635.73
Plenaries
The following plenaries have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court I, Judge Karin McGrath presiding:
Indiana Farmers Mutual Insurance Co., a/s/o Ousley Holdings LLC v. Mauricio E. Carvajal, $21,988.05
Auto-Owners Insurance Co., a/s/o Fernanda Chiode Smith v. Logan D. Frye, $14,429.77
Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance, a/s/o Gabriela Hinojosa, $19,547.77
Evictions
The following evictions have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Gabriel Martinez v. Ashlee Brown, $2,600
Annie Zartman v. Marissa Moore f/k/a Marissa Brown, $3,129
FR Syracuse v. Larnardo Lamont Pittman, $6,000
Superior Court III
The following fines for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:
Speeding — Luis M. Fuenmayor Ferrer, Warsaw, $164.50; Morgan D. Swope, Warsaw, $164.50; Joshua D. Slabaugh, Warsaw, $164.50; Maddin M. Nolin, Warsaw, $164.50; Cierra N. Ousley, Etna Green, $164.50; Ruben R. Quinones, Silver Lake, $164.50; Leann U. Harris, Warsaw, $164.50
Failure of occupant to use a safety belt — Richard M. Hall, Huntington, $25; Wayne J. Owensby, Mentone, $25
Fishing without a license — Ezekial L. Spore, Syracuse, $164 No valid driver’s license — Juan Angel De Santiago Reyes, Warsaw, $164.50
Hunting wild animals, fishing or trapping without a license
Conner M. Sausaman, Warsaw, $164
Marriage
Licenses
The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court Anne Torpy: Norman-Onken
Rachelle Lynn Norman, 37, Etna
b irths
Rosco Forrest Heckaman
Lakota Click and Kyle Heckaman, Warsaw, are the parents of a son, Rosco Forrest, born at 11:22 a.m. Dec. 26, 2024, at Goshen Hospital. He weighed 7 pounds, 3.3 ounces and was 20 inches long.
Green, and Jeremy Onken, 40, Argos Taylor-Martinez
Kyle Taylor, 38, Warsaw, and Katia G. Guerra Martinez, 29, Columbia City Keeling-Butler
Kelly Leigh Keeling, 34, Warsaw, and Shawn Philip Butler, 49, North Manchester Gonzalez-Pedroza
Angel G. Gonzalez Gonzalez, 40, Warsaw, and Ysabel D. Inciarte Pedroza, 45, Warsaw Keaffaber-Winings
Trevor Allen Keaffaber, 18, Cromwell, and Kylee Jo Winings, 19, Cromwell
Wolf-Gann
Chad Michael Wolf, 34, Etna Green, and Anna Elizabeth Gann, 27, Etna Green
Bechtold-Gibson
Brooke Alexandra Bechtold, 31, Syracuse, and Preston Michael Gibson Sr., 36, Syracuse Bland-Garman
Christopher James Bland, 31, Warsaw, and Michelle Lee Garman, 45, Warsaw
Nickle-Cripe
Jason Isaac Nickle, 42, Syracuse, and Amanda Lee Cripe, 44, Syracuse
Marriage Dissolutions
The following couples have filed for a marriage dissolution in Kosciusko Superior Courts I or IV: Beard-Burger — Gabriella Beard, Warsaw, and Craig Burger, Orland. They were married June 20, 2017; separated April 2, 2021. No minor child(ren).
Weldy — Michelle Weldy, Syracuse, and Nathan Weldy, Nappanee. They were married Feb. 14, 1997; separated July 24, 2024. No minor child(ren).
Brown — Amanda Brown, Milford, and Donald Brown, Warsaw. They were married Oct. 24, 2015, and separated Nov. 5, 2024. Five minor child(ren).
Rutledge — Devon Rutledge, Warsaw, and Joshua C. Rutledge, Abilene, Texas. They were married March 7, 2022, and separated in 2024. No minor child(ren).
Bishiopp — Katie Bishiopp, Leesburg, and Collin Bishiopp, Leesburg. They were married Aug. 12, 2023, and separated Nov. 21, 2024. No minor child(ren).
“Our families serving your family with professionalism, compassion and care.”
Pierceton and Warsaw Michael and Tracy Wilson
LINDA GEAUGH
KNIGHTS DONATE TO WORTHY CAUSES The Syracuse Knights of Columbus recently donated $3,025 to area organizations.
Shown from the left are Bob Merchant, the Knights; Kris Stump, Wawasee High School assistant band director, $1,000; Tim Phillips, K Count Kraken softball and baseball, $2,025.
These are but a few of the many area organizations supported by the Syracuse Knights of Columbus. Photo provided by Syracuse Knights of Columbus.
Leamon named county Veteran of the Month
By DAVID SLONE Times-Union
A Shriner four-time “Clown of the Year” who served his country in the Army during Vietnam is the Kosciusko County Veteran of the Month for December.
In reading the biography for Edward Leamon, Kosciusko County Veteran Service Officer Darryl McDowell said Leamon “served honorably in various capacities, reflecting his dedication to both his country and community.”
Leamon was drafted in 1966 into the U.S. Army and sent to Fort Dix, N.J., for basic training. Following that, he spent his first year as a communication specialist at Fort Ritchie, Md., which served as the ground site for the Pentagon, known as “The Rock.”
In July 1967, he was sent to Vietnam, assigned to the 9th Signal Battalion, 9th Infantry Division. Leamon was stationed south of Saigon near Ben Luc, in charge of a microwave wave radio tower supporting the artillery.
McDowell said the reason Leamon got chosen for that was because he was the only one with a high-enough clearance to operate it. Leamon was assigned to the 9th Infantry Division. He returned home in May 1968, “known as Phase II of the TET Offensive, commonly known as the May Offensive or Little TET,” McDowell said.
The offensive was launched by the People’s Army of Vietnam and the Viet Cong. Leamon came home about the time it was ending and he was honorably discharged as a sergeant.
McDowell said, “According to Ed, his life took another significant turn in 1966 when he married the love of his life, Sharon. They have three children, Christine, Ben, Todd; four grandchildren and three great-granddaughters. He wanted me to stress that.
”Leamon is a member of Conwell Masons 705 in Fort Wayne Mizpah Shrine Club. He holds the 32nd degree in Scottish Rite Mason, the “Johnny Appleseed Hillbillies,” and is a Kosciusko Shrine Club member in the Legion of Honor.
As a Shriner clown, Leamon is known as “Patches.” His duties include marching in parades and performing with the Mizpah Shrine Circus. It has been his honor to be chosen as The Shriner’s Clown of the Year in 2017, 2018, 2020 and 2021, McDowell said. Every year, the Shriners takes third-grade children to the circus. The meet-and-greet is a fun time that can be exhausting at times from taking pictures and signing autographs. “Performing at the circus is unparalleled; he can feel the energy of 10,000 kids chanting his clown’s name, Patches. He enjoys making balloon animals and passing them out,” McDowell said.
Over the years, Leamon has
Parkview Dispatch Center receives re-accredition
Parkview Flight and EMS Operations has been recognized by the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch as a Re-Accredited Center of Excellence for emergency flight and EMS dispatching.
Parkview Flight and EMS Operations is one of 180 accredited ACE agencies in the world and is the only accredited center in Indiana.
“When we first started working toward this accreditation eight years ago, there were several who said we would never obtain it,” said Roman Arnold, Parkview Flight and EMS supervisor. “Now, having earned our second re-accreditation, I couldn’t be prouder of our communications center team and all the work and progress they have accomplished over the past six years.”
been involved in many organizations, including the Syracuse Fire Department, where he was one of the first 500 registered EMTs in Indiana and a former underwater dive team member; a youth sports team sponsor for Syracuse T-ball, youth soccer and girls softball; a ski patrol member at Mount Wawasee and a junior high and high school church youth director.
Leamon established his electrical business in 1986. His son, Todd, has been an integral part of the business since he graduated from Purdue.
Leamon’s journey from a soldier in Vietnam to a beloved Shriner clown “is a testament of his commitment to making a difference. Family remains central to his life, and his legacy continues through his children and grandchildren. His multifaceted involvement in organizations emphasizes the positive impact he strives to have.
As he hands over responsibilities in his electrical business to his son Todd, he can take pride in both his professional achievements and personal relationships,” McDowell concluded.
After receiving his framed certificate and a standing ovation, Leamon said, “Thank you very much. I guess I didn’t know I was that busy. It just happens. It’s been an experience, and I’m still standing, so that’s a great thing. Thank you, guys, for doing this, and thank you guys out there.”
Parkview Flight and EMS Operations handles more than 50,000 requests for service each year, of which more than 21,000 are 911 calls. Parkview serves eight counties, totaling more than 2,000 square miles with 19 911 ambulances, two helicopters — including a new Leonardo AW169 added this summer — four transfer ambulances, Parkview Community Paramedics and Parkview Wheelchair Transport.
“Our team of dispatchers are the link that connects people in need with the emergency responders ready to help them as quickly as possible,” said Brett
Steffen, manager of Parkview’s Flight and EMS Operations center. “I am extremely proud of the dedication and skill which has once again made Parkview the only center in Indiana to earn this prestigious accreditation from the IAED.”
“I am incredibly proud of our dispatch team for again meeting the standards for ACE accreditation,” said Dr. Amy Souers, medical director, Parkview Health EMS, community/ ground 911 and EMS dispatch center. “This award represents an incredible commitment to excellence in quality, education and compliance.”
More than 3,500 emergency communication centers worldwide use the medical, fire, police and emergency nurse triage protocols developed and maintained by the IAED. The protocol-based system — known as the priority dispatch system — is recognized as the standard of care and practice for emergency dispatch and is used in 46 countries.
“Accreditation is truly a pinnacle achievement,” said Christof Chwojka, accreditation board chair at IAED. “We applaud the dedicated call takers, dispatchers and leadership team at Parkview Flight and EMS Operations for their commitment to quality, and for meeting that high standard that few achieve. We know their community can count on these first responders to do an outstanding job.”
Take the battlefield in Warsaw Jan. 18
Looking for something fun to do this winter? Join the Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department for Family Nerf Battles. The battlefield will be equipped with barricades to increase strategy and competition.
The parks department will supply all the darts for each onehour battle, along with eye protection for all. Participants will be responsible to bring their own Nerf gun; however, no battery-operated Nerf guns will be allowed.
Family Nerf Battles will take place from 10-11 a.m. or from
2-3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, in the Pete Thorn gym, 800 N. Park Ave., Warsaw. All ages are welcome; there is a $4 cost per person. Registration is required and will be open through Wednesday, Jan. 15, unless filled. There is a maximum of 20 participants per time slot. To register, visit https:// secure.rec1.com/IN/warsaw-in/ catalog.
If you have any questions or need any assistance getting registered, contact Lynnae at (574) 372-9554, ext. 608.
IN FLIGHT Shown is one of Parkview’s Samaritan medical helicopters in flight. Photo provided by Parkview Health.
DECEMBER MEMBER OF THE MONTH Edward Leamon is the Kosciusko County Veteran of the Month for December 2024. Pictured (L to R) are Darryl McDowell, county veteran service officer; Cary Groninger, county commissioner; Leamon; Bob Conley and Brad Jackson, county commissioners. Photo by David Slone, Times-Union.
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Indiana grant boosts diversity through Logansport food hub
By JOE ULERY Indiana News Service
Communities around the state will be watching the progress of a unique project coming up for the north-central Indiana town of Logansport.
The Cass County Community Foundation-backed dream for the new community space includes a permanent farmers market, an incubator kitchen for small food businesses and making community garden plots available to local residents.
Deanna Crispen, president and CEO of the foundation, em-
phasized the initiative’s focus on uniting the diverse community.
“The whole idea behind this proposal was bringing people together through food,” Crispen explained.
Planners chose Heritage Park for the project and intentionally designed it to honor the town’s immigrant history. They are working with minority groups to ensure inclusivity. The Lilly Endowment has awarded a $5 million grant to fund the project.
Crispen pointed out Purdue University’s Extension program will teach agricultural techniques to new residents. The garden
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Bidding open until 6 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 2. Pickup located at 2653 E. US 30, Warsaw. Firearms, ammo, game calls, camo, waders, knives, lanterns, binoculars. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Bagged Ice Business Phone Bid Auction Bidding open until 4 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8. For bidding and bidding updates, call (260) 499-0216 or (260) 499-0093.
Online Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9. Open house 5:30-6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 6. Property located at 68 E. South
plots will allow families to grow traditional foods alongside local staples.
“The space where we’re going to build is where the immigration statue is,” Crispen noted. “This was meant to be a gathering place.”
Organizers expect construction to begin next spring. Local organizations and city officials are coordinating logistics, such as relocating the farmers market during construction. Crispen described the project as a future centerpiece for the community, bringing pride and economic opportunities for years to come.
Winter aid available for Indiana’s rent, bills and basics
By DWIGHT ADAMS Mirror Indy
Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the Mirror Indy-Free Press Indiana-Public News Service Collaboration.
People can almost always use an extra hand when winter arrives.
What do people need the most? “Coats. We can never have enough coats, hats, boots,” said Maumi Van Kirk, director of retail sales for the Julian Center, including its Thrifty Threads store. “We always run out of coats. That’s what people are looking for - warm gear.”
Along with free clothing, local organizations can help with food, rent and utility payment assistance, bus passes and car repairs.
The township you live in can also be a good resource for assistance, whether you need food, medicine, clothing or help paying your bills.
Help With Rent
Renters may be eligible for the Indiana Emergency Rental Assistance program.
Call 211 to learn about which created programs in partnership with local legal aid providers to help residents facing eviction.
Renters who have received an eviction notice or believe their landlord is getting ready to file one can call Indiana Legal Help which has information about legal assistance for housing and other issues.
The Housing Choice Voucher program, administered by the Indianapolis Housing Agency, also can provide rental assistance for qualified low-income families. Under the HCV program, also known as the Section 8 program, participants pay no more than
30% of their monthly adjusted income toward rent and utilities. But the agency is under a federal takeover right now and isn’t running the voucher program effectively, as a Mirror Indy investigation has shown.
Help With Utility Bills
The federally funded Energy Assistance Program provides a one-time annual benefit through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program that is paid to your local utility vendor to cover heating and electric costs.
Indiana households that earn 60% of the state’s median income or less may qualify for this benefit. You can apply before April 14, 2025, on the Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority website, by mail, in person, or by calling 211. Know Your Rights
According to Indiana law, a regulated utility cannot turn off residential utility service from Dec. 1 through March 15 to any customer who has applied for and is eligible for the Energy Assistance Program. This includes utilities that provide electric or gas energy. Winter Assistance Fund Families and individuals who don’t qualify for the EAP can get help paying for heating bills through local utilities companies
or can check with the United Way in their area Jan. 1, 2025, through May 31, 2025.
Food Pantries
Along with well-known food pantries offered through Gleaners and the St. Vincent de Paul Society, local churches, schools and other community organizations also run food pantries, where residents can get free food this winter.
Free Winter Clothing
And Household Items
Check the community for organizations offering free winter clothing and household items such as Catholic Charities, thrift stores operated by churches and other organizations. The local township trustees may have a list of such organizations.
Beds and Britches, Etc., or B.A.B.E.: The B.A.B.E. program, run by local health departments, provides new and gently used clothing, as well as maternity wear, baby supplies, bedding and blankets, baby toys and personal hygiene items for pregnant people and children up to age 5. Car Repairs, Transportation Nationwide charitable organizations may also be able to provide help with repairing or buying a low-cost car, including Free Charity Cars and the Causes Charitable Organization.
St., Milford. Fixer-upper home. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Online Coin Auction
Bidding open until 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Three-legged buffalo nickel, gold coins, silver peace dollars, seal notes, foreign currency. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Estate Auction
9 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11. Located at 401 S. Oakland Ave., Nappanee. Pickup truck, boat, mowers, golf cart, shop equipment, tools, dishes, appliances. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Warsaw Education Foundation grants funding to teacher projects
The Warsaw Education Foundation, a local nonprofit organization supporting educational excellence in Warsaw Schools, awarded $16,514 in Red Apple Grants to 17 teachers throughout the school system in early December.
These grants fund new projects, identified by the teachers, which exceed the day-to-day curriculum, from math software to translation earbuds.
“Our teachers work tirelessly each day to engage their students,” said WEF Director Erin Serafino. “We want to support their hard work as they bring innovative learning experiences to local students. The foundation seeks to make Warsaw Schools the best it can be, and supporting teachers through Red Apple
Grants is our main focus.”
Every year, the foundation raises money through its annual Quiz Bowl, corporate sponsorships, and generous supporters. The funds raised are given to Warsaw teachers through Red Apple Grants. Any Warsaw teacher can apply for project funding through this program. Since its founding in 1987, the foundation has funded more than $550,000 in projects that have impacted over 37,000 K-12 students.
If you would like to support similar projects in Warsaw Schools, visit warsawedfoundation.org/donate to make a gift today and support future grants for Warsaw teachers and students. To sign up a team for Quiz Bowl 2025, visit warsawedfoundation.org/quizbowl.
North Webster, Syracuse libraries hosting annual art contest
The Syracuse and North Webster public libraries have announced the third annual teen art contest. This year, students in grades 6-12 are invited to submit mural designs for a fence, located outside of the North Webster Community Public Library.
Submissions are open until Feb. 14, and students may submit solo designs or in groups of up to four individuals. Mural templates can be picked up and finished designs can be returned at either library.
Completed submissions will be displayed at each library and community members will have a chance to vote on their favorite designs. The winners will bring
their designs to life in spring 2025.
Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to showcase your artistic talents and leave a lasting mark on your community. Need feedback, inspiration or supplies? Join in for one of the art contest workshops. Two sessions are available and students may attend one or both: from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, at the North Webster Community Public Library, and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, at Syracuse Public Library. For more information, call the North Webster library at (574) 834-7122 or the Syracuse library at (574) 457-3022.
Hoosier Solar secures permits for two Starke County solar farms
Hoosier Solar has secured permits for two large-scale solar projects in Starke County, representing a $650 million investment.
The projects, covering over 2,500 acres, are expected to generate enough energy to power more than 53,000 homes once completed. The two solar farms, named North Bend and Starke Central, will be located east of Bass Lake and northeast of Knox. Construction is set to begin in 2026 and is anticipated to take
approximately 18 months. Hoosier Solar estimates the projects will contribute more than $1 million annually to Starke County’s economy. Additionally, they are projected to lower community property taxes by over $285,000 each year.
Once operational, the solar farms are expected to create 10 full-time maintenance positions, with an average annual salary of $75,000.
BOOSTING DIVERSITY Space for the Farmers Market, which includes an incubator commercial kitchen, will be located in Logansport. Photo provided by Cass County Community Foundation.
New director taking the helm of trails committee
By LAUREN ZEUGNER Editor
As 2024 comes to a close, the Syracuse-Wawasee Trails Committee is excited to be heading into 2025 with a new executive director, Tracey Ford.
Ford is no stranger to the area as her family has lived on or near Lake Wawasee since the 1940s. Her dad, Spike Ford, was also one of the founding committee members.
Ford has a background in corporate sales in account management where she did sales strategy, marketing initiatives, key negotiations and even event planning.
In talking to the trails committee, it felt her experience would be a good fit.
“It’s a great time,” she said. “I’m
happy for Amanda.”
Amanda Plank, the current executive director, will be taking over an animal rescue in Albion after the first of the year; however, she will remain involved in the trail committee as a member of the fundraising committee.
Ford said her coming to the Syracuse-Wawasee Trails Committee was a very organic process. Her father spearheaded the Mudd Lake Trailhead. While discussing a future trail head with Plank, Ford mentioned to her she was interested in getting more involved in the community. Plank invited her to a trail committee meeting. After learning Ford was looking for a job, Plank suggested the committee talk to her about the job.
Ford noted she has a head for sales and a heart for the trails, just what the committee was looking for to keep the project moving forward.
“It (the trail committee) was a real passion project of my dad,” she said.
Before the trail committee was formed, Spike Ford noticed there was no safe way for residents or visitors to immerse themselves into a different part of the lake.
Because of his passion, having a trail system in the area quickly became a family passion.
Ford herself is an avid trail user, usually with her golden doodle, Gus, who was adopted from New Hope Pet Rescue. She said one of her favorite parts of the trail system is by Conklin Bay where she’ll often see abundant wildlife.
Ford said her plan is to continue the momentum Plank and the committee started in 2024.
“It’s a great committee. I’m look-
ing forward to working with them,” she said.
One thing she’d like to do is take the existing trails to the next level by providing educational touch points, such as signs highlighting native wildlife which live in the area.
She also plans to lean into her dad’s expertise.
“There is a lot of knowledge to be tapped into,” she said.
Noting trails are about connectivity, Ford said she’s already seen how the trails connect residents, but she’s also likes to see them connect the Syracuse-Wawasee
trail to other communities. She’s looking forward to talking with the Syracuse business community about how to improve the existing trail system and where they want the trail to go.
For 2025, the initiative will be the Wawasee South project. Already the trail committee has secured a $250,000 grant from the K21 Health Foundation for phase one As for her dad, he’s excited to see his daughter give back and grow the community. He believes she can bring a new lens and a new eye to the project.
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COMING FULL CIRCLE Shown is Spike Ford, left, one of the founding members of the Syracuse-Wawasee Trail Committee. His daughter, Tracey, will be taking the helm as the committee’s new full-time director on Jan. 1.
Amanda Plank, who was the previous executive director, has taken a position in Albion but plans to remain on the fundraising committee for Syracuse-Wawasee Trails. Photo by Deb Patterson.