working on fixed route, other improvements…
KABS: for the public
By LILLI DWYER Staff
In recent months, Kosciusko
Area Bus Service’s General Manager Kristin Rude has been appearing at town council meetings around the county, including Leesburg and Syracuse, to inform the public about the KABS service and plans to improve it
KABS is a curb-to-curb public transportation service, which operates countywide through Cardinal Services but can be used by anyone There are no fixed stops — riders are picked up at a location they pre-arrange and dropped off wherever they wish, within county limits Through Medicaid, KABS can also provide transportation to medical appointments anywhere in the state KABS’ operating hours are 5:30 a m to 6 p m Monday through Friday
Rude became general manager in May and was already aware of some strategic plans for improving the service
“We had talked about a deviated, fixed route Efficiency, just increasing efficiency, trying to increase rides and those kind of things, to make services that are meeting community needs,” she said
Rude cites transportation as a “huge need” for everyday people Access to it might be hampered by low income, age, disability or other health problems
“The biggest barrier is not having transportation or friends and family who can meet that gap,” she explained Without a car, the other options are KABS, Kosciusko Community Senior Services’ van transportation, or a taxi service
In her first three months, Rude met with the Kosciusko County Commissioners and the Michiana Area Council of Governments “to talk about what are the transportation issues in Kosciusko County, what are those barriers, how are we gonna go about tackling this as a group?”
The three
most common rides
are for work, medical needs and nutrition needs, like grocery shopping KABS also transports students, who aren’t served by a bus route to their schools
Driver Alex Venegas said he gives about 30 rides per day In the last fiscal year, KABS gave 38,972 rides in total In 2020, the number was 44,606
“Our goal is to get back to pre-COVID numbers We’re seeing a gradual increase each year, we’re giving more and more rides, so really pushing toward getting those rides back up there,” Rude said Prior to COVID, KABS also operated until 8 p m
“We just haven’t been able to get those last two hours back into the schedule We don’t get the calls, and so we can’t have the drivers just doing nothing,” Rude explained; however, KABS is interested in the possibility of extending its hours in the future
“Transportation out of county is a big barrier Maybe individuals live in Silver Lake but they need to go to Wabash for a court appointment, or they have a specialist in Rochester or in Goshen,” Rude mentioned
For this, KABS has recently established an out-of-county fare structure, with a maximum distance of 300 miles round trip
Within the county, KABS’ biggest hurdle is in distance
Northern destinations, like Syracuse, Milford and Nappanee, are harder to reach because of mileage, travel time, and the effort of coordinating all necessary rides within a day
Dispatching software helps organize travel times, and part of the strategic plan is to vet out some new software to better meet KABS’ scheduling needs
Upgrading its software would also include adding debit and credit payment methods
Right now, riders must give exact change to the driver, or purchase bus tokens or tickets in the KABS office at 1804 E Winona Avenue, Warsaw
Another modernizing addition would be digital scheduling
“We would love, if
it’s sustainable within the price point, to be able to offer the public the option to schedule their rides from their phone,” Rude said
After meetings with MACOG, KABS has received an initial analysis for a fixed bus route within Warsaw
“We’re looking at one bus route with a one-hour loop, going to different fixed stops on that route that would cover very frequent high-traffic places in the community Things like groceries, medical, downtown components,” Rude explained “I think it will help individuals live their life more freely, be able to access things more independently, be able to access their needs without having to think it through and plan it out so much ”
Having a fixed route within Warsaw, she added, could free up drivers to take more trips outside the city
While plans are not yet set in stone, Rude said, “We’re hopeful to see it come to fruition by fall of next year at the latest We want to get feedback from the community, from businesses that might be identified as some of those stops ”
In general, public input will be a component of KABS’ decision-making process as it looks to make changes Potential avenues for feedback include public meetings, surveys, and informational tabling at local events
There are also quarterly transportation advisory committee meetings, with Rude and David Neff of KCSS, that the public is welcome to attend The next is at 11 a m Jan 9 , at 1515 Provident Drive, Warsaw
For those who have had difficulty getting an evening ride in the past, Rude said, “I encourage the public to reach back out and give us a try Even if they’ve been told ‘no’ before, they might get told ‘no’ again, but it does help us collect information We track all of our denials, and we look at that all monthly All of that is analyzed and goes into helping us make better decisions for the community in the future ”
More information about KABS can be found at cardinalservices org/services/kabs To schedule a ride, call (574) 2674990
BUS TALK KABS general manager Kristin Rude, right, talks with driver Gene O’Connor.
STARTING ROUTE Rude and driver Alex Venegas, right, look at dispatch information on the screen in a KABS bus. Dispatch software helps keeps track of travel times. New dispatch software and digital payment methods are part of KABS’ strategic plan to better meet the community’s transportation needs.
TWELVE SEATER Pictured is the inside of a medium KABS bus, which has 12 seats and space for two wheelchairs. Anyone needing transportation in Kosciusko County can use the KABS service, and an out-of-county fare structure was recently established.
Text and Photos
Writer
Michaels finds Broadway dreams in local theater
By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer
“My love for theater began in high school, when I attended a performing arts high school,” said Scott Michaels, artistic director of the Warsaw-based nonprofit theater, Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts. “Before planning my move to New York City to chase my Broadway dreams, I aimed to sharpen my audition skills by auditioning for various theaters, including the Wagon Wheel.”
For his Wagon Wheel audition, Michaels prepared a piece that was inspired by his athletic background, as he spend years playing an array of sports, including hockey, tennis, basketball, football and baseball. In his audition piece, Michaels incorporated baseball-themed choreography.
“To my surprise, I received a call offering me not only acting roles but also the chance to choreograph three summer shows,” Michaels gleamed. “I was thrilled and took the opportunity, thinking I’d move to NYC afterward; but, here I am, 30 years later, still at the Wagon Wheel.”
Before officially settling down in the Warsaw-area full time, Michaels had tasted what it was like to live in cities across the country, including Chicago, Tampa, Virginia Beach, Minneapolis, Wichita and Milwaukee.
“My time in Warsaw has been nothing short of incredible,” Michaels assured. “Here, I met my amazing and talented wife, Jennifer Dow, and together we’ve built a beautiful life with our dog, Inara.”
Michaels has been involved with the Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts since 1996 as a resident choreographer and accepted the artistic director role in 2008, when his mentor and friend, Roy Hine, passed away unexpectedly.
“I jumped at the chance to honor Roy’s legacy,” Michaels reminisced. “I have been in this role ever since, dedicated to keeping the spirit of the Wagon Wheel alive.”
Michaels’ passion for theatrics started early in his life, as he often has felt “sparked by the magic of storytelling and the unique way live performances connect people.”
“I’ve always been fascinated by the power of theater to evoke emotion, inspire change and bring people together in a shared experience,” Michaels elaborated. “The combination of creativity, collaboration, and the ability to express complex human emotions on stage drew me into this art form, and I knew I wanted to dedicate my career to it.”
As artistic director of Wagon Wheel, Michaels has to balance
many spinning plates to bring the productions to life.
“When selecting plays and
musicals for our summer season, I consider audience preferences, diversity of programming, and our theater’s artistic vision. I aim for a mix of classic and contemporary works that will hopefully resonate with our audiences,” Michaels explained. “I try to prioritize essential elements, like strong casting and storytelling over glitz and glamour, creatively manage resources by re-purposing sets and costumes, and having a talented staff that can do a lot with very little. We certainly create a lot of magic on very tight budget.”
Michaels has had the privilege to work on some very memorable productions and create some very special memories. Some of his favorite past productions include “Ragtime” for its music and story; “Cats” for its choreography; “Mary Poppins” for its technical difficulty and all- around, on-stage magic; “Tarzan” for the opportunity of working with Disney Theatrical on the world premier of the
regional production; “Fiddler on the Roof” for the music and story; and “Peter Pan” for its technical difficulty and magic of flying four actors on stage at the same time. Michaels described the theatrical feat as “jaw-dropping.”
Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts is about to enter its’ 70th season this summer. The milestone season boasts a lineup of audience-favorite productions, including “Joseph and the Amazing Dreamcoat,” “South Pacific,” “Sister Act,” “Steel Magnolias” and “Grease.”
“This milestone allows us to reflect on our rich history while also looking forward to an exciting future. This anniversary season is not just a celebration; it’s an opportunity to deepen our connections with the community and inspire a new generation of theater goers and artists,” Michaels exclaimed. “I can’t wait to share this special season with our audiences and create unforgettable memories together.”
HAPPY 90TH BIRTHDAY Margaret Cousins will celebrate her 90th birthday on Tuesday, Oct. 22, with some family and her husband, Dean, who was 89 in July. They have been married 67 years and were king and queen of Milford Fest this past year. Photos provided.
Plenty of time to send us photos of your veterans
‘the PAPER’ wants to honor the veterans in our county in our Nov. 6 publication. We will be dedicating space to publish photos of these veterans and asking our readers to help by sending photos and information.
Please send us a photo, past or present, of a veteran in the family. Include the veteran’s name, military branch and the years served.
Email photos and information to dpatterson@the-papers.com, mailed to ‘the PAPER,’ P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542 or bring a photo and information to either our Warsaw office, 114 W. Market St., Syracuse office, 102 E. Main St., or the main office at 206 S. Main St., Milford. Information published in the 2023 salutes will not be used
Nappanee’s Halloween activities
The town of Nappanee has announced its activities for Halloween. All activities will be held on Thursday, Oct. 31.
Nappanee’s city-wide, trickor-treat event will be 5-7 p.m.
The American Legion trunkor-treat will be from 5-6:30 p.m. at 2021 W. Lincoln St. The library’s story walk will be from 5-7 p.m. at Nappanee Elementary School, 755 E. Van Buren St.
The Boys and Girls Club will host an activity from 5-7 p.m. at 900 E. Centennial St. The cute and creepy costume contest starts at 7:15 p.m. at the Nappanee Boys and Girls Club, hosted by the Nappanee Parks and Recreation Department.
For more information, visit nappaneeparks.recdesk.com/ Community/Program.
Don’t forget Christmas Bucks are coming
There is still time for merchants to participate in the annual Christmas Bucks promotion sponsored by ‘the PAPER.‘
This is the 53rd year for Christmas Bucks in ‘the PAPER’ with a total of $3,000 in Christmas Bucks to be given away to seven lucky readers through a drawing. The promotion drives customer traffic into participating merchant’s stores in order to register to win. The Christmas Bucks cash can then only be spent in participating stores.
Make sure you’re one of those merchants by contacting your sales representative, Carl Lauster at our Warsaw office, (574) 269-2932 or Susan Stump
GENEROUS PARTNERSHIP
unless we are notified to use the photo and information again.
Please provide photos and information by Friday, Oct. 25.
ROBERT L. FOX U.S. NAVY 1943-1945
Pictured from left are Ashley Starkweather, administrative assistant to the principal at Harrison Elementary School; Beth Williman, Generous Coffee; Selah Williman, sixth-grade student; and Matt Deeds, principal of Harrison. Photo provided.
at our Syracuse office, (574) 6120128, or contact Kristin DeVittorio, advertising manager, at the corporate office (574) 658-4111,
ext. 2308.
Oct. 23.
Harrison partners to sell coffee to raise money
Harrison Elementary School in Warsaw has partnered with Generous Coffee to raise money for the school.
Generous Coffee, downtown Warsaw, is a for-profit organization which gives back 100% of its profits to nonprofits, with its mission being “generosity.”
Harrison Elementary is raising money to support the “Leader in Me” program it is using with
students, which aims to help students develop and use leadership skills to reach their full potential.
“Leader in Me” is based on Stephen Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.”
“We are grateful to partner with Generous Coffee, and we encourage anyone who wants a bag, to stop by Harrison Elementary,” the school said in a news release.
Good Neighbors is a column in which readers share friendly advice. To ask or answer questions, write the Shopping Guide News, Good Neighbors, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542; fax 800-886-3796; or e-mail abias@the-papers.com. Please no phone calls.
Editor’s Note: The Good Neighbors column is for people looking for hard-to-find or old items or for people seeking advice, not for items you can find in a local store or sell through the help of a classified ad. This column runs every other week.
Encyclopedia
Good neighbors: I have an encyclopedia: The World Book (letter S), 1986. At a garage sale in Nappanee, you purchased a set of World Book Encyclopedias minus the “S” book. I have found that book and would love to get it to you to complete your set. Reply through this column. — A reader Saw found
Good neighbors: I found a saw (circular type) near Chapman Lake, one mile north of Armstrong Road, maybe on CR 175, on the side of the road. Call (260) 215-3780.
Cardstock
Good neighbors: At my garage sale in late July, someone bought two ink pads and the colors were orchid oasis and starry sky. I have found one packet of card stock for each of these colors. If interested, call (574) 773-0310.
New questions
Used CDs — Looking for used or scratched music or teaching CDs. They can be scratched, bent or used. Any kind can work. Call (574) 306-8527.
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Grocery
Puzzle pieces — Looking for puzzle pieces. The puzzle does not need to be complete. Just looking for various colors of puzzle pieces, like green, red, gold, brights, etc. Call (574) 306-8527.
Queen mattress set — Would anyone have a used queen mattress set in good condition they would like to get rid of? Call (574) 658-4447.
Used Rainbow sweeper — I am looking for a used Rainbow sweeper with attachments. Leave a message at (574) 546-1199.
Hoverboard repair — Does any good neighbor know of anyone who fixes hoverboards? If we turn ours on, the one side just beeps. Call (574) 354-8388.
Christmas stamp set — I am trying to find “The Light of the World” stamp set by Stampin’ Up. This is a retired Christmas stamp set. Call (574) 646-2153.
Used accessibility equipment — Does any good neighbor know if there is an outlet to sell used accessibility equipment? I have a like-new lift chair, adjustable bed, 24-inch seat, wheelchair and more and cannot find a resale outlet. Contact Mike at (574) 903-1701.
Rubber stamps — Does anyone still use rubber stamps mounted on wood blocks? I have around 20 sets and hope someone would be interested. They are Stampin’ Up. Call Ruth at (574) 773-0310.
Kosciusko County official recognized for training
The Association of Indiana Counties recently announced that 56 local officials and county employees received accreditation in the Institute for Excellence in County Government program. Twelve received their Institute for Excellence Certification by completing 30 credit hours within four years. Additionally, 44 individuals completed requirements for additional awards.
Among area officials receiving recognition were Kosciusko County Council member Joni Truex, who received a Silver Masters Pin; Fulton County Treasurer Kathy Adamson, institute certificate; Wabash County Auditor Marcie Shepherd, institute certificate; Marshall County Auditor Angie Birchmeier, continuing education certificate; and Elkhart County Auditor Patricia Pickens, continuing education certificate.
Ongoing education is needed to ensure government functions run
smoothly. With the support of Bliss McKnight Inc., the Association of Indiana Counties has devoted resources to improving government through its educational program, called Institute for Excellence in County Government.
The institute was established in 1993 to allow officials and county employees access to training, which is geared specifically to county government.
The Association of Indiana Counties assists county government officials and employees in becoming more efficient, solving problems and finding the resources they need to serve their constituents.
The Association of Indiana Counties Institute is made available to all elected county officials and staff.
After accruing 30 or more credit hours of study within three consecutive years, program participants qualify for various levels of AIC institute certificates. Continuing ed-
ucation certificates are awarded to those who have previously earned an institute certificate and have completed an additional 20 hours of course work within one calendar year.
Silver Masters Pins are awarded to students, who have completed 75 hours after completing their initial certificate; Gold Masters Pins are awarded to students who have completed 125 hours; Platinum Masters Pins are awarded to those students who have completed 180 total credit hours; and Life Achievement Certificates are awarded to students who have completed at least 240 total credit hours since the program’s inception in 1993.
Association of Indiana Counties and Bliss McKnight are helping county officials continue pursuing their educational goals through live and recorded classes.
To learn more about the AIC Institute, visit indianacounties.org.
Daily Bread Market hosting Fall Fest Oct. 19
By PHOEBE MUTHART Staff Writer
Daily Bread Market in Nappanee is hosting a special event Saturday, Oct. 19. Fall Fest will be from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will offer face painting, hay rides, meadow maze, barrel trains, bounce house, apple sling shot, pumpkin bowling, apple butter demonstrations, kettle corn, food trucks, cider floats and slushies.
The owners are Lamar Chupp and his wife, Kristine. The store opened in December 2023.
“We want to celebrate the harvest of the community,” said Lamar.
The apple butter will be made in a copper kettle, a family heirloom.
“It’s about making memories as a family,” said Lamar of Fall Fest.
Like most grocery stores, Daily Bread market has a deli, bakery, produce section, meat department and a cafe. It also carries items in bulk, such as flour.
“We do a lot of local produce,” Lamar said. “It is high quality, organic and pesticide free. Being local is a big thing we do here. The milk is local, too.”
It also offers homemade seasonings, candles, cereal and granola.
The bakery features homemade pies, bread and cookies. The fresh meat market includes locally-raised beef and chicken in bulk.
“We have good competitive prices,” said Lamar.
Some of the activities Saturday
will be available for a nominal fee. A photographer will take fall family photos for $20. The apple sling shot requires apples to be purchased and face painting does have a small fee.
“If you don’t purchase tickets, there is still some fun, family-friendly things to do,” said Lamar.
A cafe offers outdoor and indoor seating. The cafe offers coffee, sandwiches, smoothies, ice cream and milkshakes. It serves breakfast and lunch items.
“When you are with friends and family, it brings people together. Being a part of that is special,”
said Lamar.
Regular business hours are 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.
Daily Bread Market is located at 9922 W. CR 1350N, Nappanee. Call (574) 773-0303 or visit its Facebook or Instagram page for more information.
FRESH PRODUCE Daily Bread Market in Nappanee offers locally-grown fresh produce. It also has a meat market, cafe and bakery and is hosting Fall Fest Saturday, Oct. 19. Photo by Phoebe Muthart.
Get ready for the holidays at Extension Homemakers’ program
The Kosciusko County Extension Homemakers are inviting the public to join them for its annual holiday program, a day of demonstrations, food and crafts.
The event takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7, at the Home and Family Arts Building at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds, 1400 E. Smith St., Warsaw.
The morning session will begin at 9 with breakfast and snacks, followed by Christmas tips and sessions on making two different kinds of pie crust, homemade noodles and a recipe using Brussels sprouts,
purple cabbage and onions. Samples will be available.
There will be door prizes and a surprise treat.
After lunch, which is also furnished, participants will have the choice of attending one of four different craft sessions. The sessions to choose from include:
1. Beaded napkin rings; materials will be furnished to make four rings.
2. Mug rug, jewelry case and reindeer; materials will be furnished for participants to make one of each.
3. Vintage memory book; books
and decorative materials will be furnished so participants can create a book with personal mementos they bring, such as recipes, ticket stubs and pictures.
4. Clothespin angel and CD ornament; materials will be furnished to make one of each.
Reservations are due by Saturday, Oct. 26. Make a reservation by mailing your name, telephone number, choice of session and a $10 check payable to Kosciusko County Extension Homemakers to: DeeAnna Muraski, P.O. Box 796, Warsaw, IN 46580.
Art on the Road: Class is
By DEEANNA MURASKI and DARLA MCCAMMON Guest Writers
For the next few weeks in our “Art in Action: Art on the Road” series, we will be traveling around the area to elementary, middle school, and high school classrooms. You will have an inside view of their instructors, the subjects they are studying and their artwork, which is very worthy of a prominent place on the refrigerator if not framed and hung on the wall.
But before we start this series, it will help draw appreciation and context if we commence at the beginning. We can easily assume art education has been around since one-room schoolhouses.
The first American one-room
schoolhouse started in 1750 in Southington, Conn. However, our assumption would be incorrect. Art education started very precisely in 1821; to do the math for you, it was 203 years ago. Initially, schooling was only provided to a very privileged class of children. So why did it take 71 years for art education to finally be introduced? And why very precisely in 1821? Two words: industrial revolution.
The industrial revolution (1760-1840) was a time of great innovation. The very first application for a patent was filed with the United States Patent and Trademark office in 1790. As a sidebar, the application was for a mixture of pearl ash and pot ash (or potash). The mixture of fire ashes soaked in water created lye and could be mixed with pearl
ash, a leavening agent, to make soap and fertilizer.
This was also a time of a chemical revolution. The conflux of both the industrial and chemical revolutions required other non-typical ingredients for success: renderings/drawings of the items (to provide on patent applications, etc.) and marketing designs.
Both of those required an influx of artists quickly able to draw sketches and advertisements to market the product to the masses. Society also required book and magazine illustrators and architectural sketches. Back then, these were lucrative trade jobs, which could quickly be attained at the completion of a rudimentary education, thus equipping the young adults to be economic producers.
Next week, we will continue the journey traveling forward in time 200 years.
To Visit Warsaw City Hall. Current artist Elizabeth Wamsley’s beautiful pottery coupled with a metal works display, a great interplay on the textures. Location: 102 S. Buffalo St., Warsaw. Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, except holidays. All on the first floor; handicap accessible.
STEAM PATENT DRAWINGS The Industrial Revolution brought about the need for dedicated art schools as detailed drawings were required for patents and trademarks.
Drawings, such as these of a steam engine, were lucrative trade jobs during this time. Graphic provided by DeeAnna Muraski.
Time to register for Extension Homemakers’ fall holiday program
The Elkhart County Extension Homemakers will host “Creative Crafts and Cuisine: Homemade for the Holidays” program from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 26, in the Home and Family Arts Building, located on the Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds, Goshen. Each participant will receive a booklet with all of the craft instructions and recipes. The cost is $15 per person with pre-registration or $18 per person at the door. Cash and check will be accepted. Checks can be made payable to Elkhart County Extension Homemakers.
Come enjoy food tasting, makeand-takes, craft demonstrations, and networking. New this year will be a silent auction where you can bid on holiday/gift items, such as a
tooth whitening kit, voice lessons, Cherished Teddies, hand-knit items, books, handmade purses, and more. Proceeds will benefit the programs of Elkhart County Extension Homemakers. Doors open at 8:30 a.m. with the first 33 participants receiving a free tote bag.
Registration forms are available at the Purdue Extension Elkhart County office, can be downloaded and printed at bit.ly/FallProgram2024 or email fink24@purdue. edu for a copy.
This program and all Purdue University programs are open to the general public. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, contact Emily Christ at (574) 533-0554 two weeks prior to the event.
KYLA students learn about Kosciusko County social services
The Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy class of 2024-25 recently gathered for its second session of the year, focusing on social services in Kosciusko County.
The session provided students with the opportunity to hear from multiple community leaders, who are at the forefront of social service initiatives in the region.
During the session, each speaker shared insights about their respective nonprofit organizations, highlighting the services provided to the community. Students gained a deeper understanding of social challenges faced by the county and the work being done to address them.
Kosciusko Youth Leadership
Academy fosters an environment where high school juniors can develop leadership skills and become informed, proactive members of the community. The academy’s monthly sessions cover a range of community sectors, including government, health care, agriculture and service organizations, to provide a comprehensive leadership education.
For more information, visit kosciuskoyouthleadership.org or follow KYLA on social media.
LEADERSHIP EDUCATION — The Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy class of 2024-25 recently gathered for its second session of the year. Pictured in front from left are Courtney Brower, Warsaw Community High School; Landon Bewley, Tippecanoe Valley High School; Macy Carson, Triton Junior-Senior High School; Samantha Bloomfield, Lakeland Christian Academy; and Taelyn Tom, Wawasee High School.
Pictured in the back row are Eric Lane, Fellowship Missions; Michelle Bickel, Joe’s Kids; April Slone, Beaman Home; Ami Pitt, Combined Community Services; Austin Rhodes, Live Well Kosciusko; and Kyrie Maierle, Cardinal Services. Not pictured is Tracy Furnivall, Baker Youth Club. Photo provided.
Purdue Extension Kosciusko County Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator Emily Kresca will be presenting “Indoor Oasis: The Joy of Gardening with Houseplants” from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 24, at the North Webster Community Public Library.
Explore the world of indoor gardening in this presentation focused on houseplants and their benefits. The program will cover the best plants for various light conditions, tips for maintaining optimal humidity and essential care routines to keep your indoor garden thriving. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to expand your collection, this session could inspire you to transform your living space into an inviting green space.
Preregister for the program by Thursday, Oct. 17, by calling (574) 268-2132 or sending an email to eluc@purdue.edu.
All Purdue University Extension Service are open to everyone. If you need an accommodation to participate in this program, contact Kresca at (574) 372-2340 or by email at eluc@purdue.edu by Oct. 17.
Frederick Kitchens
Frederick Kitchens, 54, Oswego, died Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.
Rosemary Mast
Rosemary Mast, 62, Etna Green, died at 3:45 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2024, at home. She was born Sept. 25, 1962.
She is survived by her mother, Sylvia Mast, Etna Green; brothers, Lamar Mast, North Webster, Paul Mast, Etna Green, and Galen Mast, Bourbon; sister, Linda (Floyd) Hochstetler, Nappanee; brother-in-law, Merle (Kathy) Chupp, Etna Green; sister-in-law, Anita Mast, Nappanee; and 20 nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her father, Marvin J. Mast; sisters, Barbara Mast and Carolyn Chupp; brothers, Lester Mast, Mark Allen Mast and Dennis Lee Mast; and three nieces.
Visitation was held Thursday, Oct. 10, and all day Friday, Oct. 11, at the Merle Chupp residence in Etna
Green. A funeral service began at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 12, at the Merle Chupp residence. Home ministries of the Old Order Amish Church officiated and burial was in Graber Cemetery.
Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee, was in charge of arrangements.
Anne Pease
Anne Pease, 63, Kimmell, died Thursday, Oct. 3, 2024.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of North Webster.
Laura Smith
Laura Smith, 80, Warsaw, died Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, in her residence.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.
Francis F. Troup
Francis F. Troup, 83, Wyandotte, Mich., formerly of Syracuse, died Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, in her home.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse.
Bret Waine Wolf
Feb. 19, 1959-Sept. 23, 2024
Bret Waine Wolf, 65, passed away Sept. 23, 2024, in Warsaw. He was born on Feb. 19, 1959, in Goshen, to Marion M. and Barbara Sue Wolf. On June 30, 1979, he married his sweet Sue Ellen (Sprong) Wolf.
Bret was a graduate of West Noble High School (1977) and the Acme Institute of Technology (1980). During his education and continuing throughout his life, he pursued careers in broadcasting and sales. Many may remember him from his time with WRSW radio station of Warsaw.
It was love at first sight for Bret and Sue when they met at the Mermaid Festival in North Webster in 1977. Their 1979 wedding was one for the story books. In 1982, God granted them their miracle twin babies for which they enjoyed taking part in every activity together as their daughters grew.
Bret enjoyed his time as an active member of the community. As a member of the Warsaw Breakfast Optimist Club, he served in many roles, including president and treasured the friendships he formed. Bret also enjoyed many hobbies, including flying. As a private pilot, he enjoyed sitting around the table at the airport. Sharing a cup of coffee and stories with his pilot friends brought him as much joy as flying itself.
Bret’s family and friends will remember his love of music and the time he spent playing at the family farm. He was a hard worker and was always interested in learning new things. Bret was extremely creative and had a great sense of humor. He loved to play in the kitchen, and many may remember his homemade pizzas. His daughters were extra fond of his homemade taffy and had fun with their dad participating in the process and enjoying the results. Bret loved to spend time with family and friends, including his Claypool United Methodist Church family. As much as he loved to make new memories, he loved to recall old ones and cherished all that were shared.
He is survived by twin daughters, Lori (Matt) Deeds of Warsaw and Lisa Wolf of Cincinnati, Ohio; siblings, Eric (Barbara E.) Wolf, Scot (Kim) Wolf, twin sister Brenda (Don) Patrick and Brad Wolf; his two grandsons; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Sue, as well as his parents, Marion Wolf and Barbara Sue Wolf-Hoover.
Bret was remembered during a private burial at Oakwood Cemetery in honor of his life. Family and friends are welcome to visit the cemetery, where he was laid to rest with Sue to honor his memory and grieve in their timing. May we all find comfort in our cherished memories.
Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw has been entrusted with the care of Bret.
Small Claims
The following small claims have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Snow and Sauerteig LLP v. Michelle Baxter, $5,782.66; v. Elizabeth Spry, $4,535.14; v. Diana Tackett, $2,045.71
Taylor Law Office PC v. Joshua Cooper, $1,122.37; v. Kelsey Ancil v. Jonathan Ensz, $5,310
Goshen Hospital Association Inc. v. Jill K. Hackleman, $113.55
Client Services KL v. Julia A. Hopkins, $609.46
Rockhill Pinnick LLP v. Kelley Katzer, $9,081.27
H&L Motors v. Penguin Point Group LLC, $4,673.17
Total Recovery Services Inc. v. Kion-
tay Smith, $1,094.80
Kathryn Newby v. V&H Enterprises LLC, $5,047.88
Macy Clutter v. Thomas Wyman, $4,250
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, $1,788.79; v. Jessica Coquillard, aka Jessica Yoder, $2,896.08; v. Jordan Good, $1,958.79; b. Lindsay Purvis, $1,064.32
Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. Jennifer N. Baker, $1,523.25; v. Andres Cervantes, $1,448.88
Velocity Investments LLC v. Ebony Bond, $3,996.80; v. Sabrina Phillips, $1,609.11
Beckham Riggs Graber
Drew and Jessica Graber, Milford, are the parents of a son, Beckham Riggs, born at 6:59 p.m. Oct. 2, 2024, at Goshen Hospital. He weighed 7 pounds, 15.7 ounces, and was 21 inches long.
Elim Jonah Yoder
Marcus and Deborah (Bontrager) Yoder, Middlebury, are the parents of a son, Elim Jonah, born at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 4, 2024, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 9 pounds, 1 ounce, and was 20 1/2 inches long. Charles Joshua Koble Caleb and Corina (Royer) Koble, Warsaw, are the parents of a son, Charles Joshua, born at 4:06 a.m. Oct. 10, 2024, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 7 pounds, 6 ounces.
Maternal grandparents are Eddy and Rachel Royer. Paternal grandparents are Brooks and Mary Koble.
Charles joins two siblings, Thomas and George.
Stella Ann Hochstetler
Joeseph and Marla (Borkholder) Hochstetler, Bremen, are the parents of a daughter, Stella Ann, born at 4:37 a.m. Oct. 10, 2024, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 7 pounds, 5 ounces, and was 19 1/2 inches long.
Maternal grandparents are Lamar and Jolene Borkholder. Paternal grandparents are Lyle and Karen Hochstetler. Stella joins a sibling, Felix.
Discover Bank v. Christina C. Conwell, $3,061.34
LVNV Funding LLC v. Charlie Farmer III, $939.36
CommunityWide Federal Credit Union v. Angelica Heeter, $9,378.18; v. Michael R. Moore, $6,331.23
Northwest Bank v. Keegan Hernandez, $10,974.28
CKS Prime Investments LLC v. Lloyd Mast Jr., $1,228.57
SAC Finance Inc. v. Danielle K. Reames, $15,841.73
Citibank NA v. Sonya L. Riffle, $2,498.02
Consumer Portfolio Services Inc. v. Serena Warren, $7,069.82
Interra Credit Union v. Jerry D. Wilkins, $19,031.46
Gateway Financial Solutions v. David Ybarra III, $10,566.64
Plenaries
The following plenaries have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court I, Judge Karin McGrath presiding: Lake City Bank v. Creative Technology Solutions Inc., Timothy R. Poyner, $49,189.97
The Daltons Inc. v. Roy Messick, $7,297.20 Civil Torts
The following civil tort has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler presiding: Progressive Insurance Co. v. Julian R. Hunter, $12,864.04 Evictions
The following evictions have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Neighbors of Village Estates LLC v. Continued on page 9
BRET WAINE WOLF
P ublic A uctions
Hepler Real Estate Auction
6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17. Located at 10943 N. SR 19, Nappanee. Three-acre farmette, 1,452 sq. ft. home, 3-bed, 1-bath, barn and sheds. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Stutzman Real Estate & Personal Property Auction
4 p.m. Monday, Oct. 21. Real estate sells 6 p.m. Located at 15242 CR 40, Goshen. Threebed, 1 1/2 bath home with 48′ x 32′ shop and wooded acreage. Scaffolding plus plank and castors; shop items; fishing poles, rods and reels; lawn and garden items. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Online Auction
Bidding open until 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 21. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Antique tools, primitives,
blacksmith and forging equipment, anvils, glass oil bottles, lightning rods, axes, hatchets, wood pulleys, coal irons. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Real
Estate Auction
6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 21. Property located 3½ miles north of Shipshewana on SR 5 to SR 120, east 2½ miles to 5460 W SR 120, Shipshewana. Auction located at Chupp Auction Center, 890 S. Van Buren St., Shipshewana.
Real Estate Auction
6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 21. Located at 406 E. 1000N, North Manchester.
Toy Auction
3 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 23. Located at Chupp Auction Center, 890 S. Van Buren St., Shipshewana.
R e P o R t
Timothy A. Goble, Winona Lake, $164
Continued from page 8
Kayla Anderson, $4,227.70
Huntington 112, LLC v. Tori David, Ethan Hibbs, $7,138.20
Edd Allen, Judy Allen v. Christina Heiman, Kevin Heiman, $9,539.44
Sherri Makinson v. Damian Henry, $7,534; v. Elizabeth Hoffman, $10,000; v. Austin Newsome, $4,400; v. Aryanna Scholl, $8,192
Little Crow Lofts LLC v. Brittany Huston, $8,005.24; v. Casey Lee, $8,005.24
Michael’s Management Affordable LLC, d/b/a Heron Preserve Corporate Housing v. Madison Ryan, $2,091.50 Superior Court III
The following fines for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Speeding — Brent A. Sabin, Syracuse, $164.50; Colin A. Vanlue, Milford, $164.50; Jose J. Castillo Giron, Warsaw, $164.50; Teresa D. Grechenkov, Warsaw, $164.50; Ruben M. Meza-Quezada, Warsaw, $164.50; Casey N. Elliott, Syracuse, $164.50; Cameron L. Dennis, Rochester, $164.50; Sara J. Harris, New Paris, $164.50; Andrew S. Pelo, Mentone, $164.50; J.F. Medina, Claypool, $164.50; Operating a motor vehicle without financial responsibility — Kaitlyn M. Kubley, Milford, $189.50; Taylor A. Biberstine, Warsaw, $189.50
Unlawful operation of a motor vehicle with special fuel containing dye or marker — Nathanial A. Imhoff, Pierceton, $239.50
Operating with expired plates — Spencer L. Davidson, Syracuse, $164;
Online Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24. Open house 5:30-6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 21. Property located at 6950 E. 700N, Rochester. Cropland, ranch home, pole barn, woods and pond in four tracts. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Online Sports Card Auction
Bidding open until 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. PSA and SGC graded cards, rookie cards, unopened sets, all-stars, football, baseball, basketball, racing. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Online Coin & Currency Auction
Bidding open until 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 27. Pickup located at 1582 W.
Wilczynski-Brown
Failure of occupant to use a safety belt, disregarding stop sign Jaime Ponce, Warsaw, $189.50
Disregarding stop sign — Maria A. Brito, Warsaw, $164.50
Learner’s permit violation — Esmerelda S. Saucedo-Camarillo, Winona Lake, $164.50; Odilber P. Perez Bernardo, Warsaw, $164.50
Failure of occupant to use a safety belt — David S. Dilley, Warsaw, $25; Jeremy D. Lawlor, North Webster, $25; Brittany R. Adair-Austin, Warsaw, $25; Roger L. Clemens, Warsaw, $25; Derek A. Domenico, Warsaw, $25; Bradley A. Sroufe, Warsaw, $25; Daniel L. Hollett, Warsaw, $25; Clinton P. Reiff, Warsaw, $25; Deborah A. Reiff, Warsaw, $25
Holding or using a telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle — Alexis B. Devenney, Warsaw, $164.50; Kinsey B. Julian, Warsaw, $164.50; Chelsea M. Salas, Warsaw, $164.50; Amy L. Miller, Mentone, $164.50
Address or name change violation, holding or using a telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle Karthik Chandrasekaran, Warsaw, $189.50
Marriage Licenses
The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court
Anne Torpy: Frye-Shumaker
Heidi Lynn Frye, 40, Milford, and Sean Elliot Shumaker, 49, Milford Davis-Evans
Rachel N. Davis, 40, Warsaw, and Zachariah Evans, 43, Pierceton Miotto-Pennington
Robert Eugene Miotto, 48, Warsaw, and Leann Christine Pennington, 50, Warsaw
Kaitlyn Elizabeth Wilczynski, 22, Milford, and Zachary Roth Brown, 22, Fishers Yoder-Hochstetler
Michael L. Yoder, 36, Etna Green, and Angela Jane Hochstetler, 25, Etna Green
Steinmeyer-Williams
Elizabeth Anne Steinmeyer, 41, Silver Lake, and Adam Michael Williams, 36, Silver Lake Lopez-Ybarra
Darjel Ramon Romero Lopez, 34, Warsaw, and Erica Marian Ybarra, 42, Warsaw Zolman-Howard
Jacob Clarence Gene Zolman, 22, Warsaw, and Tiffany Marie Howard, 23, Warsaw Kline-Stoddard
Jacob Lee Kline, 21, Warsaw, and Cassandra Stoddard, 21, Warsaw
Marriage
Dissolutions
The following couples have filed for a marriage dissolution in Kosciusko Superior Courts I or IV:
Bays — Sarah N. Bays, Leesburg, and Keegan A. Bays, Warsaw. Minor child(ren).
Stoddard — Alexzandrea Stoddard, Pierceton, and Justin Stoddard, Warsaw. No minor child(ren).
Grechenkov — Arseniy S. Grechenkov, Warsaw, and Teresa D. Grechenkov, Warsaw. Minor child(ren).
Toscano — Megan Toscano, Syracuse, and Joseph Toscano, Warsaw. Minor child(ren).
Yates-Clark — Keenan S. Yates, Warsaw, and Britany L. Clark, Warsaw. Minor child(ren).
Wells — Benjamin Wells, Warsaw, and Ashley Wells, Pierceton. No minor child(ren).
Erb — Kathleen Erb, Syracuse, and Larry Erb, Syracuse. No minor
SR 114, North Manchester. Graded coins, silver dollars, coin books, seal notes, proof and mints sets, foreign currency. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Online Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 6:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 28. Open house 5:30-6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 22. Property located at 10401 S. 950 W-92, North Manchester. Country home, pole barn and pond on 7.49 acres. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction. com.
Online Coca-Cola Collection Auction
Bidding open until 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 28. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Bottles, advertising, neons, vending machines, coolers and more. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Online Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 23. Property located at 710 Southside Drive, Warsaw. Open house 5:30-6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17. Ranch home with barn. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Phone Bid Real
Estate Auction
Bidding open until 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 29. Property located at 2465 S. 600W, Topeka. Inspections 3-5 p.m. Tuesdays. For bidding and bidding updates, call (260) 499-0216 or (260) 499-0093. Real Estate Auction
6 p.m Tuesday, Oct. 29. Located at 4011 N. Valley Lane, Warsaw. Brick home, 4-bed, 2 1/2 bath with attached 2-car garage on corner lot. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
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pearl was left to die
At Isaiah 11 Ministry—a self-proclaimed “rescue” near Warsaw—Linda Ozier deprived sick and injured animals of veterinary care, even when they were dying. A PETA investigation found that Ozier intended to let a critically ill cat named Pearl die slowly and painfully.
Cats at the facility were left to suffer from upper respiratory and ear infections, muscle wasting, and chronic, painful wounds. Animals’ remains were found rotting in unrefrigerated containers outside. This information and other irrefutable evidence of crimes have been sitting on Kosciusko County Prosecuting Attorney J. Brad Voelz’s desk since early April.
In the meantime, Ozier still keeps numerous animals at her home. Urge Voelz to prevent her from harming more animals: Call him at 574-372-2419, and e-mail him at prosatty@kcgov.com
Please ask five family members and friends to do the same!