Children countdown to Christmas
By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer
With Christmas just a short three weeks away, area children are buzzing in excitement for a visit with their family, friends and their favorite jolly man, Santa Claus. Little girls and boys across the county, state, country and world have been on their best behavior to ensure a visit from Santa.
Syracuse Elementary School fourth grader Austen Bess is sure he made this year’s nice list because he was recently very supportive when his little brother, Matthew, hurt his finger.
“I think Santa was glad to see that I was there to help my brother,” Bess said. “But I was glad to help my brother because he is my brother.”
Bess wakes up his brother and dad, Warren, as soon as he wakes up on Christmas morning, which is usually around 7:30 a.m.
“Sometimes we leave cookies out for Santa,” Bess explained. “But sometimes we don’t because we don’t want to give him a tummy ache.”
Once the house is awake, presents are opened and memories are made. This year, Bess is hoping Santa brings him a Minecraft Lego set.
“That is just one set of Legos that I would like,” Bess mentioned. “But I love doing Legos, so really any set would be fun to build.”
After presents are opened, it is time for Bess’ favorite Christmas tradition: napping with his dad, Warren.
“Because we wake up early, we are usually tired in the afternoon,” Bess said. “I love napping with my dad, he
is very comfy.”
Milford Elementary School fifth grader Rosemary Miller believes she made the nice list because she has helped her younger sister, Evelyn, with her homework.
“I am so excited for Christmas,” Miller stated.
One of her favorite Christmas traditions is when her family puts up the Christmas tree, they snack on an orange chocolate treat.
“It’s really yummy!” Miller emphasized.
Her other favorite traditions include leaving cookies out for Santa.
Her favorite cookie to leave out is a vanilla cookie with sprinkles, which just so happens to be Miller’s favorite Christmas cookie.
“I like to give and receive gifts because it is nice to give and it is nice to get,” Miller mentioned. “My favorite person to give a gift to is my sister.”
Harrison Elementary School third grader Reece Herring landed himself on Santa’s nice list because he was nice to his older brother, Brooks.
“Christmas is my favorite holiday,” Herring said.
Herring has some big wishes for Santa this year: a German shepherd-husky puppy, a kitten and a baby sister. Herring currently has two cats: Cookie Monster and Oreo.
“I really want a baby sister,” Herring said.
Herring loves to go play in the snow. He and his dad, Scott, like to go outside and have snowball fights together.
Herring looks forward to Christmas to give presents to his family.
“I love giving gifts to my family,” Herring said.
Lincoln Elementary School second grader Aurora Everett ensured her spot on the nice list because she was very nice this year to her younger brother, Zander, and did not fight with him.
“Christmas is my favorite holiday,” Everett said. “Because Santa comes and brings us presents.”
She and Zander love to go out in the snow and play.
Her big Christmas wish is for “Jesus to have a great birthday.”
“Santa’s favorite cookie is a chocolate chip cookie,” Everett mentioned. “Like me.”
Everett reported Santa consistently ate every bite of the cookies she and Zander leave for him.
“Christmas is my favorite holiday. Well, one of them. Because Santa brings me presents, but only if you’re good!” Washington Elementary School kindergartner Jacob Yocum explained. “Good kids get presents and bad kids get coal.”
Luckily, there is no coal in Yocum’s future because he has cemented himself on Santa’s nice list another year because he is very helpful without needing to be asked.
“I love helping my parents,” Yocum stated. “And the ‘Star Leader’ helps my teacher.”
Yocum has his fingers crossed Santa brings him a stuffed-horse plushy. He loves to leave Santa cookies and milk. He believes Santa’s favorite cookie is an M&M cookie, which is also Yocum’s favorite cookie.
With as well-behaved local children have been this year, there is absolutely no doubt Santa Claus will be making stops in Kosciusko County again this year.
Circulars (in selected areas)
SANTA’S FAVORITE COOKIE — Milford Elementary School fifth grader Rosemary Miller thinks about what Santa’s favorite cookie could be. She decided vanilla cookie with sprinkles, which just so happens to be her favorite cookie.
NAUGHTY OR NICE — Washington Elementary kindergartner knows the difference between ending up on the Naughty List versus being on the Nice List. “Good kids get presents and bad kids get coal!” He explained. Yocum has always made the Nice List.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS — Although Lincoln Elementary School second grader Aurora Everett had wishes of her own, including a new Barbie. Her biggest Christmas wish is for Jesus to have a happy birthday.
BABY SISTER OR A PUPPY — Harrison Elementary School third grader Reece Herring knew exactly what topped his Christmas wish list this year: a baby sister or a German shepherd-husky puppy.
THE NICE LIST — Syracuse Elementary School fourth grader Austen Bess knows he made Santa’s nice list again this year because he was very supportive and helpful to his little brother, Matthew, when he hurt his finger.
Text and Photos
Mother, daughter complete last Art in Action column
By PHOEBE MUTHART Staff Writer
Deanna Muraski and Darla McCammon have been collaborating on the weekly Art in Action column for over 15 years.
That column, which has appeared in ‘the PAPER,’ is now coming to a close. The last column will appear in early December.
For over 15 years, the duo behind the column have volunteered hours and hours of time in writing the weekly column.
McCammon was raised in California. Her mother died when she was in high school and she took up painting. Muraski was born in Huntington Beach, Calif., and eventually moved to Indiana.
While in California, McCammon joined an artists’ guild in the 1970s. She got exposed to different art, from watercolors to different paints.
McCammon established the Dana Wharf Art show, which is still in existence today, in California.
“It became so popular,” said Muraski. “She created a culture.”
McCammon later moved to Indiana. It was McCammon who came up with the idea for the Art in Action column.
“She was not getting paid; neither of us were for writing the column. I know people assume that but it really was a labor of love,” said Muraski.
McCammon is very well known in the community. She was the director of the Animal Welfare League and has been very active in the Lakeland Art Association. She also started the Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery.
“She’s been getting new artists,” Muraski said. “That’s helped promote the arts.”
Muraski is CEO of Operation
Read. She has also been active in The Warsaw Rotary Club and served as its president. She also worked for Grace College.
Due to health reasons, McCammon has to put the pen and paper away and step back from writing the column.
Muraski is the youngest of McCammon’s four daughters. Writing the column together allowed the two to spend quality time together.
“I’ve enjoyed writing it and engaging the readers. It was something different and unique,” said Muraski.
She said she has had nothing but positive feedback from the column.
“Readers have enjoyed the column,” Muraski said.
While readers may or may not be artists, she said they loved the column. People would often tell her, “you and your mom opened my eyes,” said Muraski.
Muraski said the column was a combined effort by joining forces.
“I’ve helped her all along,” she said.
McCammon would write a draft, and “we would collaborate on it. We kept a list and never repeated a column,” said Muraski.
The duo would often brainstorm ideas for the next column and find photos to go with the columns. Along the way, they learned a lot, too.
Wellness & Wisdom SPEAKER
SERIES
“It kept us both engaged in the art world,” said Muraski. “It was a divide and conquer kind of thing.”
Although the column will be a thing of the past, Muraski said
our speaker series.
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she hopes people now appreciate the arts more and will do so in the future.
“It’s been a gift to the community,” Muraski said fondly.
Learn to ‘Curb the Urge to Splurge’ this holiday
“Curb the Urge to Splurge” will be offered from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 11, at the Senior Center, 800 N. Park Ave., Warsaw.
The free, educational program will be presented by Shannon Shepherd, extension educator for health and human sciences for Purdue Extension Kosciusko County.
The program will help people learn to identify holiday marketing strategies, to define their holiday goals, identify holiday needs
and wants, create a plan for holiday spending, and review the consequences of overspending.
If you would like to attend the program, pre-register by Wednesday, Dec. 4, by calling the Senior Center at (574) 268-2132.
All programs of the Purdue University Extension Service are open to everyone. If you need an accommodation to participate in the program, contact Shepherd at (574) 372-2340 or shephe52@ purdue.edu by Dec. 4.
Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.
Melanie can brighten up the Interior of your home.
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Stairways
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Woodwork Staining
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Great Service – Reasonable Rates
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References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075
References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075
Great Service – Reasonable Rates
References Available Upon Request. 574-304-5075
A LABOR OF LOVE Deanna Muraski, right, and her mother, Darla McCammon, have collaborated on the Art in Action column for over 15 years. This month, the last Art in Action column will be printed in ‘the PAPER.’ Photo provided by Deanna Muraski.
NWCC Massage Therapy is NWTCC November Member of the Month
Noelia Castillo, owner of NWCC Massage Therapy, is the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce’s Member of the Month for November.
Castillo has been a massage therapist for 13 years and has been located at the North Webster Community Center for the last three.
Specializing in “treated-base massage,” she offers deep tissue massage, lymphatic drainage, sports massage, pregnancy massage, Reiki, and relaxation massage. “Whatever physical issue my client comes to me with, we will determine the best treatment, and I will help take care of those issues,” said Castillo.
“I love this community,” Castillo remarked, “it’s the people that I’ve gotten to meet and the clients I have had the privilege of helping.” The chamber chose NWCC Massage Therapy for Castillo’s dedication to volunteering for various events.
NWCC Massage Therapy is currently offering one hour massages through online booking and will be offering a one-day, Black Friday only, sale on gift certificates for one hour massages at a discounted price. Visit nwcommunitycenter.org or call (574) 621-5107.
Crossroads
NOVEMBER MEMBER OF THE MONTH NWCC Massage Therapy is the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce’s Member of the Month for November. Shown in front from left Karen White, Caliber Designs, chamber secretary; Scott Kuhn, Tangibles Resale, chamber vice president; Noelia Castillo, owner NWCC Massage; Emily Shiply, NWCC, chamber president; and Elise Guy, Guy’s Lawn Care, chamber
treasurer. In back: Keith Kuric, North Webster Public Library; Chris Trowbridge, Maverick Promotions, chamber director; Gwen Fuchs, Northwest Bank, chamber director; Linda Land, Lake-Land Cottages, chamber director; and Nicole Nabinger, Kinetic Firearms, chamber director. Photo provided by North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce.
‘Rotary Toy Day’ in Warsaw coming up Dec. 5
The Warsaw Rotary Club will hold its 97th annual “Rotary Toy Day” on Thursday, Dec. 5, at the club meeting for its outreach with The Salvation Army in Kosciusko County.
The first toy day was held in December 1927 when the club met at the Hotel Hays and gathered gifts. This year’s collection is being held to support gifts to veterans’ fami-
lies by American Legion Post 49 in Warsaw in cooperation with The Salvation Army.
Toys may be dropped off at The Salvation Army Angel Tree located at Walmart Supercenter, 2501 Walton Blvd., Warsaw (inside the Home & Pharmacy door). Donors should place gifts in a bag with “Veteran” clearly marked on it by the deadline of Saturday, Dec. 14.
“The Salvation Army appreciates the Warsaw Rotary Club and their support of our mission over the years,” said Salvation Army
Envoy Ken Locke, administrator. “We are excited to partner with American Legion Post 49 in serving veterans in our county as well.”
Crossroads Bank has announced the promotion of Nate Fansher to executive vice president, chief credit officer and chief lending officer.
Fansher joined Crossroads Bank in 2007 as a credit analyst and has advanced through several key positions, including credit officer in July 2010, commercial loan operations manager in September 2010, vice president of commercial loan operations in July 2012, senior vice president of credit administration in January 2015, and executive vice president of Crossroads Bank in July 2023.
While Fansher actively contributes to the success of Crossroads Bank, he also remains involved in the community. He serves on the boards of Visit Wabash County, the Wabash County Museum and the Title Center of Indiana, and he participates in the Economic Vitality Committee of Downtown Wabash Inc.
“Community banks play a vital role in supporting local economies. I’m grateful for the trust Crossroads Bank has placed in me to meet the lending needs of the communities we serve,” said Fansher.
NATE FANSHER
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Grocery
Church Food Pantry. Photo provided by Par-Kan.
Par-Kan collects food to stock local pantry
The week of Nov. 18-22, ParKan, located in Silver Lake, held a food drive with hopes to give the food to a local organization.
Art in Action —
The food collected went to teacher Katie Yoars and the Mentone Bulldogs Student Council, which holds a food drive every year to collect vari-
ous items for the Mentone
Church Food Pantry.
gave a shout-out of thanks to all its employees, who made the food drive happen.
Unexpected art on the road
By DEEANNA MURASKI and DARLA MCCAMMON Guest Writers
My favorite moments are those not anticipated which bring great joy. Recently, I got to experience one of those moments. Like most of us when we get in a hurry, we are focused on what we need to do in that moment and what is coming next that we need to do after we are done.
I was at Ivy Tech finishing up a meeting and getting ready to attend my next meeting when something caught my eye. As I was walking down the hallway, I saw a beautiful piece of artwork. I stopped to study its beauty but knew I needed to move on; however, I came across another beautiful piece and realized the artwork was following me down the hallway. Now, I knew I could no longer ignore it and needed to inspect the work closer. I was delighted to find the description identified as a piece of artwork from RedBird Art Studio, located in Cardinal Services.
I moved on upstairs to go onto my next appointment, but was again stopped as the morning sun was streaming through the floor-toceiling glass windows and illuminating an entire gallery of RedBird Art on the wall.
The installation looked so beautiful splashed onto canvases showcased along the wall. Without even meaning or intending to, I got to go on the road for our Art on the Road series.
ON DISPLAY
Shown is one of the Redbird Art Studio pieces DeeAnna Muraski came across while attending meetings at Ivy Tech in Warsaw. Redbird Art Studio is part of Cardinal Services. Photo provided by DeeAnna Muraski.
RedBird Art Studio started as a way for those with differing abilities to express themselves artistically. My gallery experience at Ivy Tech reminded me of my recent trip to see the RedBird art studio.
I had attended a luncheon at Cardinal to learn about their services. They have done a great job of not only instructing the students with professional materials but also helping them to create and sell their works of art.
They segued into art on coffee mugs, jigsaw puzzles, canvases and pretty much whatever you could imagine. Each artist is able to keep track of which of their art pieces sell the most and in highest demand.
The joy on the students faces
as they were working on their art was wonderful to see. They were all pleased as peacocks to show what they were creating at their work stations.
To Go • RedBird Art Studio is open to visitors and art is available for purchase from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday, at 504 North Bay Drive, Warsaw. One can find wonderful Christmas gifts, while helping to give back to Cardinal Services.
• Ivy Tech Community College, Warsaw. Stop by to see its display of RedBird Art on the first floor and lower level. There is an elevator to get to the lower floor. Ivy Tech is located at 2545 Silveus Crossing, Warsaw.
Katie Yoars and the Mentone Bulldogs Student Council
Mentone First Baptist
First Baptist
Par-Kan
Rich Beauty, Syracuse collects donations for L.I.T.E. program
Rich Beauty Parlor, Syracuse, had another successful month collecting donations of self-care items for the basic needs bank at Living in Transition Effectively, or L.I.T.E., a substance abuse recovery program in Milford.
For a few years, Rich Beauty Parlor has encouraged its guests to clean out their closets and bring their like-new selfcare items, such as shampoo, conditioner, body sprays and soaps to the salon.
The salon would also encourage guests to bring in purses that they did not need. Another group of individuals would take the purses and stuff them with items that are useful. The donations this year included cotton swabs, cotton balls, lotions, soaps, skin care products, toothpaste and many other items. The bags were distributed to the local homeless and women’s shelters throughout the years. This year, the salon was given dozens of pre-filled purses to donate to the L.I.T.E. program.
L.I.T.E has a women’s substance abuse recovery housing program, a recovery cafe, grief counseling and peer-led services for anyone who needs sup-
port. It helps individuals find transportation, housing and employment and will have new programs launching in January of 2025 in Enchanted Hills.
Free food offered in Mentone
The Food Bank of Northern Indiana will hold a mobile food distribution in Kosciusko County in December.
The event will take place from 10 a.m. to noon Thursday, Dec. 5, at the former Helping Hands Food Pantry, 10072 W. 600S, Mentone.
The distribution is sponsored by Managed Health Services and will provide U.S. Department of Agriculture products and serve 150 households.
Mobile food distributions offer
assorted food items free of charge to those in need of food assistance. All items are pre-boxed and pre-bagged. Food is available on a first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last. One box or bag of food is available per household. Distributions are drive-thru events. Recipients are asked to remain in their vehicle and open their trunk to receive items. An area will be available for self-loading if your trunk does not open.
Kosciusko County Council
Member Sue Ann Mitchell was elected president of the Association of Indiana Counties board of directors. She began her term Nov. 1, 2024. Board elections were held during the AIC’s annual conference in September.
“It is a true honor to serve as the Association of Indiana Counties president,” said Mitchell in a statement. “The association has a strong executive committee with a great board of directors representing districts and county elected officials in the state of Indiana.”
Mitchell continued, “The primary function of AIC includes bringing all county elected officials to the table to share ideas, concepts and concerns; provide educational opportunities for county elected officials; and to provide strong legislative input on all issues im-
pacting county government; proud to have been an active member of the AIC for many years.”
The Association of Indiana Counties board of directors sets policies and legislative goals for the association.
SUE ANN MITCHELL
BEAUTIFUL WORK Rich Beauty Parlor recently donated dozens of purses filled with self-care products to Living in Transition Effectively.
Pictured from left are Tammy Cotton, director of L.I.T.E.; Brittney Shepherd, master stylist; Brittany Bushong, owner of Rich Beauty; and Jasmine Adair, Quiet River Massage and Revival, located inside Rich Beauty. Photo provided by Rich Beauty Parlor.
Shop North Webster
Gifts to keep you warm and cozy
The time has changed, and so has the temperature. Mornings are crisp, and evenings are dark and chilly. Check out this list of products sure to keep you warm and cozy — whether you’re snuggling in bed, braving an outdoor workout (go you!), or just enjoying the briskness of the season. Baby, it’s cold outside, but you don’t have to be!
Woven Woven Weighted Blanket
This weighted blanket uses stitching science and aesthetics into one dreamy, bead-free weighted blanket for snuggly and warm nights.
It is bead-free and all-natural made with certified organic cotton providing a a chic and exquisite look making it unique and one-of-a-kind.
The blanket comes in a variety of soothing colors and prioritizes the needs of children and parents alike. It is breathable, gentle, and hypo-allergenic, machine washable and durable.
Geared towards toddlers the blanket has two weight options: 3.31 pounds and 4.85 pounds.
The blanket is made by Woven Woven.
FlipBelt Thermal Leggings
Take a sudden cold snap in stride with high-waisted thermal running tights with an integrated FlipBelt waistband to discreetly secure your essen-
tial items.
The leggings have moisture wicking, side pockets, an ultra soft thermal lining, internal key ring, large phone pockets and 3M reflective logo. They are machine wash and dry.
Vashon Coffee Dust
Wrap yourself in cozy vibes with a warm cup of coffee and a dash of coffee dust flavor.
Vashon Coffee Dust is subtle, delicious spice blends that flavor coffee without additives like propylene glycol. It is finely ground to dissolve beautifully. Just add ½ teaspoon per mug to grounds before brewing. Or add 1/8 teaspoon per mug of
brewed coffee or 1/8 teaspoon to froth it with milk.
Buy individual flavors or assortments.
Coastal Crew Jacket
This Coastal Crew jacket is laid-back with a relaxed style that resonates with the cozy season!
It is the perfect mix of casual and dressy. Lightweight but insulating and incredibly soft.
The plush, lightweight fabrics made from a unique blend of bamboo/rayon, cotton and spandex.
Hoodies are lined with 100% cotton dress shirt fabrics.
The Q-zips and hoodies provide the perfect pop of color for an elevated look you can wear to work, the golf course, or a night out on the town.
First and only hoodie to have the dress shirt fabric inside the hood.
Hilu Blanket
The Hilu Blanket is a cozy blanket that regulates your body temperature while you sleep!
It synchronizes with your body temperature while you sleep and is made with hypoallergenic materials that are great for sensitive skin, antibacterial and antimicrobial to keep you safe from germs and odor-free. The blanket is durable and made to last with a 10year warranty.
Twin, queen, and king sizes
are available with available colors in green, blue, and grey.
Made out of the highest quality graphene fiber.
Puffer Hug Cashmitt Scarf Stay cozy and connected with the new Cashmitt Scarf from Puffer Hug!
Crafted with a luxurious cashmere feel, the scarf has built-in pockets perfect for stashing small essentials. The hidden mittens keep your hands warm and are touchscreen compatible.
Crafted with conductive touch knit technology, it measures 72 inches long and 12 inches wide. It’s lightweight and packs down for travel.
Available in ivory, charcoal, blue, and pink.
Puffer Hug donates a portion of all online sales to children’s mental health, wellness, and educational programs nationwide.
Pull Start Fire
Get the Pull Start Fire, the fastest way to start a fire when adventure can’t wait!
It is the easiest and fastest way to start a fire. There’s no matches, lighters, or kindling needed. Just add wood, pull the string, and let the flames begin!
It’s windproof and rainproof, lights wet wood, burns for 30 minutes and safe to cook over.
Toss a pack in your car, camper, or go bag for instant fun!
SYNCHRONIZES WITH YOUR BODY This blanket synchronizes with your body temperature while you sleep.
BUILT IN POCKETS This scarf has built-in pockets and hidden mittens with a luxurious cashmere feel.
Shop North Webster
Ace Hardware is the place for your home, garden needs
By PHOEBE MUTHART Staff Writer
Ace Hardware in North Webster is the place for all your home and garden and outdoor needs. For the last 40 years, Ace has been the go-to place for home and outdoor needs.
Owner Dennis Wagoner said a hardware store in North Webster dates back to the 1880s, when there was one in the downtown area.
The current Ace Hardware store was founded in the 1960s by Earl Teghtmeyer.
“It gave us buying power,” said Wagoner.
Ace Hardware sells a variety of home and garden products. It carries marine supplies, lawn and garden items, tools, grills, home decor and an assortment of lumber.
Due to the fact that North Webster doesn’t have a lumber store, “we are an option locally,” said Wagoner.
Ace Hardware also has a paint department.
“We have an extensive electrical and plumbing department, too,” said Wagoner.
A majority of its business is in the summer. Therefore, it has a large selection of marine and boat supplies. Since Bart’s Watersports closed, Wagoner said Ace has begun selling items Bart’s sold. Called Wag’s Watersports, Wagoner hopes the new business venture will grow. He hopes to expand the building in the near future to accommodate even more new watersports products.
Success, said Wagoner, is based on its employees. Some of these employees are military veterans and, added Wagoner, attract other good employees.
Ace prides itself on good customer service.
Ace also can make automotive keys and programmable ones.
“We greet them and ask them if they need any help,” said Wagoner.
“If someone doesn’t have an answer, we ask another sales associate until we get the answer.”
Wagoner said it is good to shop local as it’s good for the economy in North Webster and Kosciusko County.
Ace Hardware has plenty of gift ideas for Christmas as well as holiday decor, too. The store manager is Bret Hite. Store hours are 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. six days a week and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.
Healthy holiday habits
By EMILY CHRIST Health & Human Sciences Extension Educator Purdue University Elkhart County
The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. It’s also a time when our well-intentioned plans for healthy living can often go awry. The abundance of delicious but calorie-laden foods coupled with a busy schedule can lead us to make less-than-ideal choices.
However, with a little mindfulness and some practical strategies, it’s possible to create healthy holiday habits that allow you to enjoy the season
while staying true to your wellness goals.
Before diving into the holiday season, take a moment to set realistic health and wellness goals. Understand the holidays are a time for indulgence, but doesn’t mean you have to abandon your healthy habits entirely.
Decide on a few specific objectives, whether it’s maintaining your exercise routine, eating more fruits and vegetables or reducing stress through mindfulness practices.
It’s okay to savor holiday treats, but practice mindful eating. Slow down, savor each bite, and pay attention to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. This
can help you avoid overindulging while still enjoying your favorite dishes.
On the topic of practicing mindfulness, holidays can be stressful. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to help you stay calm and focused on your wellness goals.
Remember nobody is perfect and the occasional indulgence is part of the holiday spirit. If you do overindulge, don’t be too
hard on yourself. Simply return to your healthy habits the next day.
Creating healthy holiday habits doesn’t mean missing out on the festive joys of the season. Instead, it’s about finding balance, making conscious choices, and prioritizing your well-being. With these strategies, you can embrace the holidays with open arms knowing that you’re nurturing your body and mind even in the midst of celebrations.
For more information, visit acehardware.com or its Facebook page or call (574) 834-2021.
His Holy Spirit be with you and your family this
and throughout the new year.
Hite, sales associate Mattie Plank, and Owner Dennis Wagoner. Photo by Phoebe Muthart.
Claypool students ponder ‘Are You a Pineapple?’
Local children’s book author, Kathryn A. (May) Zolman, recently had the opportunity to return to her elementary school alma mater, Claypool Elementary, School, and be a guest reader.
Zolman read her children’s book “Are You a Pineapple?” to kindergarten, first-grade and second-grade classes.
“Are You a Pineapple?” was published by Mascot Books in May 2022. It is based on the true story of how Pineapple, the dog, decided on her own name.
While at the school, Zolman donated one of her books to the school library.
Zolman attended Claypool Elementary between 1973 and 1980 and graduated from Warsaw Community High School in 1986. She and her husband, Brad, have been married for 35 years and have one daughter, Brooklyn (Chris) Greenleif, and a 3-year-old granddaughter.
Connect with Zolman on Instagram @areyouapineapple_ book, on Facebook at facebook. com/areyouapineapple or go online to areyouapineapple.com.
Join NPL for winter reading: A cozy challenge
Escape the cold and dive into the warmth of a great story!
The Nappanee Public Library is excited to announce its Winter Reading Challenge, a cozy way to make this season even more enjoyable. The challenge will run
Dec. 10 through Jan. 7, 2025. Participants are encouraged to read 750 minutes to earn a $5 gift card to Main Street Roasters. Along the way, for every 250 minutes read, you’ll also receive a ticket for a grand prize draw-
reading will help you reach your goal.
ing. Prizes include a sourdough starter kit, a Carhart lunchbox, gift cards to local businesses and more. No library card is required to join the challenge, and all kinds of reading count. Whether you’re enjoying a book, ebook, magazine, newspaper or even an audiobook, every minute you spend
During the challenge, the library will also host fun programs for all ages, making it a perfect opportunity for the whole family to get involved. Visit the library’s website for more details about these events and activities. Join the library for the Win-
ter Reading Challenge Kickoff from 4-6 p.m. Dec. 10. During this special event, sign up for the challenge, enter the giveaway, and enjoy a cozy beverage from the Electric Brew Espresso Bar while supplies last.
Cozy up with a good book this winter and make it a season to remember.
Project Cut Flower Grower” workshop series. It will be held at various sites throughout Indiana and virtually from 6-9 p.m. on the following dates:
• Monday, Jan. 20.
• Monday, Jan. 27.
• Monday, Feb. 3.
• Monday, Feb. 10.
• Monday, Feb. 17.
• Monday, Feb. 24.
“Annie’s Project for Cut Flower Growers” will introduce and implement risk management skills for new and experienced cut-flower growers. The course will focus on developing skills in new business development, financial management, strategic marketing, competitive production practices and liability geared toward sustainable growth.
Participants will hear from keynote speakers, who will be streamed live to dozens of workshop sites throughout the state of Indiana. Each site will also host local speakers and hands-on ac-
tivities. Attendees will have the chance to ask questions of local extension experts, while learning business skills and best practices to improve its cut-flower businesses.
The workshop costs $65 per person, and participants should plan to attend each session. A virtual option is available for those who are unable to attend a workshop site, although in-person attendance is highly encouraged to better network with other attendees and to interact with speakers. Refreshments will be provided.
Registration is required by Monday, Jan. 13, 2025.
Host sites for the sessions include: Boone, Montgomery, Warrick, Hancock, Clark, Lake/Porter, Johnson/Morgan, Steuben and Allen counties.
For more information, register by Jan. 13 at cvent.me/xbkgdZ. If you are in need of accommodations to attend the program, contact Emily Kresca at eluc@ purdue.edu or (574) 372-2340 by Jan. 13, 2025.
STORY TIME Kindergarten, first-grade and second-grade students at Claypool Elementary school recently heard local author, Kathryn
Zolman, read aloud her children’s book “Are You a Pineapple?” Photo provided by Kathryn A. Zolman.
the Right Before Christmas
(Family Features) If holiday gatherings have started to feel more overwhelming than celebratory, it’s time to go back to the basics with seasonal desserts that are easy yet elegant.
Wow your crowd this year with a mouthwatering Hummingbird Cake or Coconut Cake that call to mind holidays past without requiring hours spent in the kitchen (like grandma used to do). Or for a classic take on an old favorite, these Christmas Cinnamon Cookies can even let the kiddos get involved - just make the dough then have your little helpers use their favorite cookie cutters to make festive shapes before the oven does the rest of the work.
Find these recipes and more from “Cookin’ Savvy” at Culinary. net.
Hummingbird Cake
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
1 spice cake mix
1 cup sugar
1 cup banana cream
Greek yogurt
3 eggs
1 cup crushed pineapple
1 cup crushed pecans
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons melted butter
Frosting:
1 stick butter, softened
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
5 cups powdered sugar
1 package pecans (optional)
Heat oven to 350F.
In mixing bowl, mix spice mix and sugar. Blend in yogurt, eggs and pineapple. In separate bowl, mix pecans, flour and butter then add to cake mixture.
Grease two 8-inch cake pans with butter. Pour half the mixture into each pan then bake 45 minutes. Cool on rack before icing.
To make frosting: In mixing bowl, mix butter, cream cheese and heavy whipping cream. Slowly blend in powdered sugar.
Ice cake then decorate with pecans, if desired.
Coconut Cake
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
1 vanilla or white cake mix
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1 cup coconut Greek yogurt
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons melted butter
3 eggs
Frosting:
1 stick butter, softened
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
5 cups powered sugar
2-4 cups shredded coconut
Heat oven to 350F.
In mixing bowl, mix cake mix, flour and sugar. Blend in yogurt, milk, butter and eggs.
Grease two 8-inch cake pans with butter. Pour half the mixture into each pan and bake 45 minutes. Cool on rack before icing.
To make frosting: In mixing bowl, mix butter, cream cheese and heavy whipping cream. Slowly blend in powdered sugar.
Ice cake then pat shredded coconut gently into icing.
Christmas Cinnamon Cookies
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
1 2/3 cups self-rising flour
2 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ginger
1/8 teaspoon cloves
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 egg
2 tablespoons water (optional)
1 cup powered sugar (optional)
In mixing bowl, combine flour, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, sugar, brown sugar and egg to make dough. If dough is too dry to form
into ball, add water. Form into log and wrap in parchment paper.
Refrigerate 1 hour.
Heat oven to 350 F.
Roll dough out and cut into shapes with cookie cutters. Place on cookie sheet covered in parchment paper and bake 8-10 minutes. Let cool on rack then dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
CLASSIC DESSERTS Hummingbird cake and coconut cake bring back holidays past without a lot of hours in the kitchen with Christmas Cinnamon Cookies allowing the kids to get involved. Photo from Culinary.net.
(StatePoint) Staying warm during the cold winter months is a top priority for many, which is why holiday gifts that help in this endeavor are always a surefire hit!
Here are some head-to-toe gift ideas that will add comfort to the season and show your loved ones you care.
1. Functional Gloves for the Fashionista. From navigating with GPS to queuing up a playlist, your loved one relies on her devices all the time outdoors.
That’s why her gloves should offer touchscreen-capable fingertips so that even in frigid temperatures, she can stay cozy and connected. Enter the Women’s Mya Faux Fur Cuff Gloves from Isotoner, where style meets practicality. With SmarTouch technology for superior touchscreen capability and SmartDri water-repellent features that make rain and snow roll right off, elevating winter weather ensembles has never been easier!
2. On-the-Go Coziness for the
Fashion Forward. Staying warm and stylish with this must-have beanie and scarf set is easy. Featuring a waffle knit beanie with Levi’s iconic red tab and a soft buffalo plaid scarf, this duo is perfect for on-the-go coziness and will keep your loved one comfortable during all their favorite winter activities. Designed for the fashion-forward, it’s an ideal gift for anyone looking to blend warmth with timeless style.
3. For the Best Dressed Friend. Ultimate comfort and style go hand in hand with these Women’s Shortie Stretch Microsuede Gloves. Made from super soft and stretchy microsuede fabric, these slim-fitting contoured gloves feature a velour interior and plenty of stretch, providing warmth and flexibility with none of the bulk. With touchscreen-enabled fingertips and a water-repellent exterior designed with beautiful stitching detail, your loved one will stay warm, dry and stylish all winter.
4. For the Multitasking Guy. For the type who tackles winter head on —whether it’s shoveling snow or scraping icy windshields — you’ll want the Men’s Neoprene Gloves from Isotoner. With a durable exterior, sleek tech detailing and an adjustable zip closure, they’re designed to handle the cold. Plus, a non-slip palm offers extra grip and SmartDri water-repellent technology, to keep hands warm and dry in all
kinds of weather, so that he can find comfort in any moment.
5. For the On-the-Go Guy Who Wants to Be Comfortable. The Isotoner Men’s Carter Microsuede Water Repellent Boat Moccasin is made with durable microsuede. Not just a slipper, this versatile indoor/outdoor footwear doubles as a shoe. The moisture-wicking lining and cooling gel-infused memory foam with super supportive enhanced heel
cushion offer ultimate comfort, rain or shine.
6. For the Cozy Homebody. Make winter movie marathons and sleep sessions toastier and more restful with a weighted blanket. After all, it’s also important to stay warm inside. Research has found that weighted blankets may improve sleep quality, making this a great choice for those in need of some extra shut-eye.
Indiana grown holiday gift box
Introducing the 2024 Indiana Grown Holiday Gift Box. This year’s holiday box will include products crafted across the great state of Indiana. The holiday box is a wonderful way to support local businesses and gift unique
items that are perfect for friends and family.
The box includes: Blueberry lemon granola, handcrafted from Perkins’ Good Earth Farm located in Demotte Continued on page 11
Holiday gift ideas for students
(StatePoint) Want to brighten the holiday season for the students in your life? Consider gifts that will ease the transition into the spring semester. Here are few to consider:
1. Support a musical journey: With 44 mini keys, the SA-81 from Casio is a great keyboard for both
first-time players just embarking on their musical education and accomplished instrumentalists.
A built-in metronome makes practice sessions a breeze, and features such as scale tuning, octave shift and transpose help introduce musical concepts. One-hundred
INDIANA GROWN ITEMS The 2024 Indiana Grown
Box includes items made across Indiana.
using locally grown blueberries from Van Kley’s farm.
Honey infused lotion bar, created by Sweet Melissa Honey and Hive from Fishers
“Hoosier” style gourmet popcorn, created by Poptique Popcorn with retail locations in both Fort Wayne and Columbia City Snack sticks, produced by Pig’s Tale Charcuterie located in Indianapolis utilizing locally sourced beef and pork
Coffee samplers, including 1 Christmas Blend and 1 Morning Jolt, roasted by JavAroma Roasters in Mitchell
Artisan made pretzels, from Tell City Pretzels located in Jasper. Each Holiday gift box will in-
clude a 3.8 oz Honey Mustard and 3.8 oz Original flavored pretzels Cinnamon & sugar roasted pecans (2.5 oz), by Simply Jill’s located in Lebanon
Trio of seasoning blends, created by Spicekick located in Carmel. Each holiday box will include 1 each packet of Taco Seasoning, Sloppy Joe Seasoning and Chili Seasoning.
Small batch lotion, developed and produced by The Lotion Company located in Muncie. Each holiday box will include a 2 oz Perfectly Peppermint and a 2 oz Caramel Candy
Shipping is three-day ground with tracking and insurance. Visit indianagrown.org or in.accessgov.com/indiana-grown-store
high-quality built-in tones covering a range of instruments, including piano, wind, percussion and acoustic instruments, along with 50 rhythm patterns in a variety of genres like pop, ballad, dance, and more, offer budding musicians a chance to experiment and express themselves creatively right away.
All housed in a compact frame, it’s a great choice for young students, students on-the-go, and dorm dwellers.
2. Lighten their load: If you remember lugging around heavy textbooks during your own student days, consider lightening the load of your gift recipient with a high-quality e-reader. Look for a model with note-taking features, adjustable lighting to protect eyes and portability. A color screen is also a good idea, as it will make diagrams and charts easier to examine if your student will be reading textbooks on the device.
3. Bring the world of STEM within reach: With the advanced features of a next-generation graphing calculator, the fx-CG50 PRIZM can support students through middle school, high school and into college.
With Natural Textbook Display and an intuitive icon menu, students will find the calculator incredibly easy to use. Its 3D graphing and
improved catalog functions allow for greater engagement and real-life application in the mathematics classroom, and a host of compatible resources available at casioeducation. com can set them up for success.
Because the model is approved for the SAT, PSAT, ACT and AP tests, your gift will be helping them prepare for a bright future.
4. Help them keep time: Is your student an athlete? Whether they run track, do swim team or tackle contact sports head-on, a durable, water-resistant sports watch can
help them track their speed and progress throughout the season.
5. Expand their world: While many people today get their news by rapidly scanning headlines on apps, a deeper dive can improve literacy, expand knowledge and foster an understanding of the world. Consider gifting your student a subscription to a high-quality newspaper or news magazine.
This holiday season, give students thoughtful gifts that will ease their life and make their schoolwork and extracurriculars more enjoyable.
Richard L. Holmes
Leaves a Legacy Of Warmth, Humor, And Dedication
Richard L. Holmes, born on March 16, 1932, in Fort Wayne, passed away peacefully in Syracuse, on Thursday, Nov. 21, 2024. He was a beloved to many who had the pleasure of knowing him.
RICHARD L. HOLMES
Richard’s career spanned multiple endeavors, reflecting his versatile skill set and commitment to his work. He began his professional journey after graduating from Central High School in Fort Wayne in 1950. Richard spent three years with International Harvester before moving on to Liberty Homes in Syracuse, where he dedicated an impressive 16 years. Following this, he effectively managed a liquor store in Fort Wayne for a decade and served the Indiana Department of Transportation for two years. His community contributions continued as he worked with the Goshen Engineering Department for three years and rounded out his career as a carpenter for five years.
His steadfast dedication to duty was matched by his service to his country; Richard proudly served in the United States Air Force for eight years, an experience that showcased his commitment to service and discipline.
Known for his warm personality, Richard was well-liked by those around him, always ready with a witty comeback and a spirit that endeared him to many. He embraced the joy of life, particularly through his passion for decorating his home for the holidays, which he held dear. His fondness for animated toys reflected his youthful nature — a true kid at heart.
He is survived by his daughter, Cheryl Deck; grandson, Wesley York; brother, David Holmes; sister, Diane Holmes; and long-time friend, Beverly Epley. Richard was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Robert R. and Mary E. Holmes; his wife, Dorothy Holmes; and brothers Bill, Larry, and Philip.
Richard L. Holmes leaves a legacy of warmth, humor, and dedication, cherished by his family and friends, whose lives were touched and enhanced by his presence. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1001 S. Huntington St., Syracuse, IN 46567 is entrusted with Richard’s care. His family is grieving privately therefore no public services will be held. To leave a condolence, visit TitusFuneralHome.com
C ounty r eport Court News
Small Claims
The following small claims have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:
IOM Health System LP v. Lori Bays, $2,078.05; Terry Teachworth, $3,024.51
Snow & Sauerteig LLP v. Christina Chavez, $2,975.11; Kristey Deems, $5,243.86; Jesse Gunnels, $6,908.25; Wendy McClone, $2,522.61; Roger Rigsby, $4,062.06; Monty Sechrist, $8,879.62
Kenyon Cotton v. Miguel Gomez, $4,000
Peabody Retirement Community v. Ronald D. Thompson, $5,172.93 Civil Collections
The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler presiding:
Citibank NA v. Jenna M. Bailey, $2,335.10; Angela Wilson, $3,133.68
LVNV Funding LLC v. Brittany Bollman, $872.24; Bryan Hagan, $961.54
Barclays Bank Delaware v. Kylee Bryant, $1,500.95
Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. Andres Cervantes, $837.33; John Jones, $1,548.09; Fernando Martinez, $1,784.68; Tina Morris, $1,716.51; Marlin Pearson, $876.17; Marlin Pearson, $978.58; Bradley Shelhart, $1,583.12; Natalie D. Sherrard, $841.04
Wood Finance Inc. d/b/a Premier Acceptance v. Anthony Collins, $10,442.30
Capital One NA v. Brian J. Davies, $5,090.51; Angelica M. Martinez, $2,881.85; Carlos A. Mendoza, $3,693.85; Emily I. Nusbaum, $4,835.41; Marco A. Patino, $5,282.81
Mariner Finance LLC v. Heather A. Kitson, $4,723.50; Todd A. Kohler, $1,858.20; Eberia L. Mallory, Nicole Mallory, $8,147.30; Trevor J. McKibben, $1,356.06; Kevin W. Morris, $8,933.52; Jason R. Siegel, $1,632.85; Justin L. Thompson, $2,656.36; David Tran, Terri J. Tran, $6,351.26; Daniel P. Vandiver II, $290 Interra Credit Union v. Crystal R. Lewallen, Douglas W. Lewallen,
Matthew Leroy Wagoner
Lifetime North Webster/Pierceton resident
Matthew Leroy “Matt” Wagoner, 62, of North Webster, passed away at 5:45 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024 at his home. He was born on Oct. 13, 1962 in Columbia City, to Mervin Woodrow “Woody” and Joan Ellen (Funderburg) Wagoner.
He was a lifetime North Webster/ Pierceton area resident and attended Wawasee High School in Syracuse. He was married on Aug. 1, 1987 in North Webster to Terri Kim Ehman who survives.
He formerly worked at North Webster Products, Heaters Engineering, Group Dekko, White’s Plumbing & Heating, and was a self-employed construction worker.
He formerly attended the Salem Community Church in Wilmot and North Webster Church of God where he really enjoyed the men’s prayer breakfast as a young man. He enjoyed spending time with his family, fixing things, and working outside, especially cutting wood,
He is survived by: his wife, Terri Kim Wagoner of North Webster; children, Lindsay (Fred) Kreps of Pierceton, Melissa (Cory) Sidel of Syracuse, Amy (Scott) Farmer of Syracuse, Jamie Elliott of Warsaw, Matthew G. Wagoner of Milford, Kevin (Ashley) Vice of Brainerd, Minn., Bradley Wagoner of Syracuse, and Jennifer (Derek Grim) Wagoner of North Webster; 19 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sister, Kimberly (Richard) Owen of North Webster; brothers, Mark (Lisa) Wagoner of Neon, Ky., and Mitchell Wagoner of Syracuse; stepmother, Teri Wagoner of Washington, N.J.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Woody Wagoner and Joan Beall and stepfather, Richard “Dick” Beall. Visitation was from 2-6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1, at Eastlund Funeral Home, 7458 E. 1000N, Syracuse. Funeral Services were at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 2, in the funeral home with Pastor Mark Wagoner of the Neon First Church of God officiating. Burial will follow in the Mock Addition of the North Webster Cemetery. Preferred memorials may be given to the Church of God Youth Fund, P.O. Box 313, North Webster, IN 46555.
Pirkko A. Miller
Pirkko Miller, 91, previously of Barbee Lake, died at UC Health Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland, Colo., Monday, Nov. 25, 2024.
Arrangements are pending with Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 8056 E. 500N. North Webster.
Randall Pollen
Randall Pollen, 73, Milford, died Friday, Nov. 29, 2024.
Arrangements are pending with Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1001 S. Huntington St., Syracuse.
Manuel Tlahuetl
Manuel Tlahuetl, 24, Warsaw, died due to an automobile accident on Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024.
Arrangements are pending with Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 2000 Sheridan Street, Warsaw.
Diane Warren
Diane Warren, 77, Warsaw, died Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024
Arrangements are pending with Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 2000 Sheridan St., Warsaw.
$44,799; Miguel A. Rodriguez Valencia, Anali Rodriguez, $19,225.83 and $7,771.21
Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Justin M. Lewallen, $7,663.86
Cavalry SPV I LLC as assignee of Department Stores National Bank v. Maria M. Ortiz, $1,900.72
Bank of America NA v. Karen Ann Saffen, $7,878.47
Jefferson Capital Systems LLC v. Jose Vega Martinez, $2,486.89
Discover Bank v. Jim Waid, $6,009.73
Citizens Bank NA v. Justin Wegener, 54,997.64
Plenaries
The following plenaries have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court I, Judge Karin McGrath presiding: U.S. Management of Warsaw LLC v. Robert Levelle, $23,810.67
Indiana Farmers Mutual Insurance a/s/o Moss v. Mishel Moyotl Cielo, $1,503.64
Evictions
The following evictions have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:
HATTON-SADLER FUNERAL CHAPELS
“Our families serving your family with professionalism, compassion and care.”
Pierceton and Warsaw Michael and Tracy Wilson
Brandon Sturgill, Courtney Sturgill v. Julie Loubert, $1,330 Joshua Carpenter v. Erich Wilhelmi, $3,650
Superior Court III
The following fines for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Speeding — Travis N. Sorensen, Warsaw, $164.50; Hilary N. Hickert, Winona Lake, $164.50; Wyatt T. Lawson, Syracuse, $164.50; Murphy C. Stewart, Warsaw, $164.50; Alan I. Rangel, Warsaw, $164.50; Alec T. Lehr, Goshen, $164.50; Michael B. Sturgis, Warsaw, $164.50; Alexis E. Vargas, Warsaw, $164.50; Everardo J. Juarez-Sanchez, Warsaw, $164.50; Alvin J. Gonzalez Guillen, Warsaw, $164.50
Disregarding stop sign — Tyler G. Humphries, Syracuse, $164.50
Operating a motor vehicle without financial responsibility — Tyler L. Schmucker, Warsaw, $189.50
Driving too fast for conditions
William L. Cunningham, Akron, $164.50
Disregarding an official traffic control device — Jonathan L. Ash, Warsaw, $164.50; Sai K. Boga, Wino-
B irths
Emma Francine Whetstone
Lonnie and Marita (Borkholder) Whetstone, Nappanee, are the parents of a daughter, Emma Francine, born at 7:24 a.m. Nov. 23, 2024, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. She weighed 9 pounds, 4 ounces, and was 20 inches long.
Collin Smith
Jared and Taylor Smith, Pierceton, are the parents of a son, Collin, born at 6:04 p.m. Nov. 24, 2024, at Goshen Hospital. He weighed 8 pounds, 13.9 ounces, and was 21 inches long.
na Lake, $164.50; Fernando A. Escamilla Pacheco, Syracuse, $164.50
Owner allows dog to stray beyond owner’s premises — Debora J. Derrickson, Warsaw, $25
Operating with expired plates
Kristofer L. Hively, North Webster, $164
Unsafe slowing of vehicle or stopping without giving required signal — Anita G. Gest, Warsaw, $164.50
Driving while suspended –suspension not result of conviction — Dakota J. Palmer, Rochester, $189.50
No valid driver’s license — Seth J. Deamaral, Warsaw, $164.50
Failure of occupant to use a safety belt — Alaister S. McFarren, Warsaw, $25; Derek A. Timmons, Leesburg, $25; Eric S. Crawford, Warsaw, $25; Jerry L. Schmidt, Pierceton, $25
Driving while suspended – suspension not result of conviction, operating with expired plates
Victorina Del Real Gaeta, Etna Green, $214.50
Failure to register — Kiran K. Gopalakrishnan Dhu, Warsaw, $164.50
Continued on page 13
Titus Andrew Schwartz
Matthew and Janice (Miller) Schwartz, Mentone, are the parents of a son, Titus Andrew, born at 11:03 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27, at home. He weighed 6 pounds, 8 ounces.
Elijah Daniel Yoder
Michael and Sharon Yoder, Millersburg, are the parents of a son, Elizah Daniel, born at 12:24 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 8 pounds, 6 ounces and was 20 1/2 inches long.
MATTHEW LEROY WAGONER
‘Captain Cash’ visits Mentone Elementary students
“Captain Cash,” an elementary school curriculum designed by Purdue Extension for elementary students, recently sailed at Mentone Elementary School.
The program let 24, fourth-graders participate in classroom activities that helped them consider the following themes: the more you learn the more you earn; every payday save some cash away; there is an end to what you can spend; and for a safer tomorrow, be wise when you borrow.
Purdue Extension is grateful to Mentone Elementary School for
partnering with “Captain Cash” to enable the students to sail on their educational money voyages. The students took part in handson learning sessions during their island voyages, while gaining a better understanding of money concepts that should serve them throughout life.
If you would like to learn more about “Captain Cash” in your school or organization, or embark on a money voyage of your own, contact Kosciusko County Extension educator Shannon Shepherd by telephone at (574) 372-2340 or by email shephe52@purdue.edu.
Purdue Extension offering program on cattle production
Are you currently raising beef or dairy cattle?
Join Purdue Extension Elkhart County for an in-depth exploration of key topics in cattle management, from nutrition and forage health to reproduction and genetics. Covered will be essential areas like AgPlan, marketing strategies and economic considerations.
Toward the end of the program, participants will have the opportunity to participate in a handson carcass quality session, where they’ll learn to grade and understand the factors impacting car-
Continued from page 12
Operating a motor vehicle with a false plate – plate belongs to another vehicle — Osmal E. Madueno Vargas, Warsaw, $164
Marriage Licenses
The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court Anne Torpy: Pegan-Stoll
Madison Rae Pegan, 25, Syracuse, and Brandon Lee Stoll, 23, Syracuse Goble-Johnson
Kaleb Ryan Goble, 20, Warsaw, and Alicia Paige Johnson, 20, Rochester Kmieciak-Rickman
William Kmieciak, 23, Pierceton, and Elizabeth Rickman, 24, Warsaw Carolus-Swinehart
Garett David Carolus, 59, Warsaw, and Suzanne Alice Swinehart, 52, Warsaw Rogers-Dutton
Cherokee Anne Rogers, 26, Warsaw, and Camden Michael Dutton, 30, Etna Green
Bornes-Ortega
Adrias Jamison Bornes, 31, Warsaw, and Jennifer Lisette Ortega, 27, Warsaw Wolf-Poe
Ashley N. Wolf, 27, Mentone, and William G. Poe, 40, Mentone
Marriage Dissolutions
The following couples have filed for a marriage dissolution in Kosciusko Superior Courts I or IV:
Banning — Amber D. Banning, Warsaw, and Marcus L. Banning, Warsaw. They were married Oct. 7, 2007, and separated Dec. 1, 2023. Two minor children.
Evans — Sheila R. Evans, Syracuse, and Gary W. Evans, Elkhart. They were married July 18, 2003; no separation date given. One mi-
cass quality and the final product. In the opening session, past participants will share their experiences and discuss the changes they’ve made since completing the program. Those attending will have the opportunity to ask questions and gain valuable insights.
The program is from 6-9 p.m. Jan. 9, 2025, and will run every Thursday for 11 weeks. While most sessions will take place at the Nappanee Public Library, one will be held in Shipshewana.
Participants will receive a catContinued on page 15
nor child.
Bradford, Garcia — Mariah Bradford, Claypool, and David Garcia III, Claypool. They were married June 3, 2023, and separated Oct. 1, 2024. One minor child. Sibery — Sandy L. Sibery, Warsaw, and Ross N. Sibery, Warsaw. They were married July 2, 2005, and separated Nov. 19, 2024. No minor child(ren).
Buzalski — Allison Buzalski, Warsaw, and Ryan Buzalski, Loveland, Ohio. They were married May 22, 2021, and separated Dec. 31, 2022. No minor child(ren). Barr — Emilie Ruth Barr, Warsaw, and Raymond Clifford Barr, Warsaw. They were married Sept. 14, 2019, and separated June 21, 2024. No minor child(ren).
LEARNING EARLY — Through the “Captain Cash” program, fourth-graders at Mentone Elementary School were introduced to money management skills which should last a lifetime. Photo provided by Shannon Shepherd.
MONEY MATTERS Mentone Elementary School fourth-graders in the “Captain Cash” program learned real-life money skills through hands-on activities. Photo provided by Shannon Shepherd.
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Grace College alum inducted into prestigious ICI Indiana Academy
Grace College graduate, Huntington University trustee and president of Schrader Real Estate and Auction Company, Inc., Rex D. (RD) Schrader II, was inducted into the prestigious Indiana Academy. The honor recognizes his lifetime of achievement and significant contributions to the state of Indiana, Grace College and Huntington University.
The Indiana Academy promotes the advancement of Indiana through the academy’s support of the Independent Colleges of Indiana, Inc. and its member institutions.
Academy membership highlights people who live in or are from the state and who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in philanthropy, business, public service, advancement of the sciences, the arts, literature, culture and scholarship in connection with Indiana’s independent nonprofit colleges and universities.
“RD has left an indelible mark on Grace College through his dedication and passion,” said Dr. Drew Flamm, president of Grace. “I know his continued advocacy for private Christian education in Indiana is a great blessing to many.”
Schrader, Columbia City, attended the Grace College basketball camps as a child. He came to Grace in 1988 to study business and played as a point guard all four years for Grace’s basketball team. During his senior year, the team won the 1992 NAIA national championship — the first in Grace Athletics’ history.
Schrader, who served in his family’s business as a sales manager for years before becoming the president and lead real-estate auctioneer, has invested significantly in his alma mater.
“The private Christian college experience was just invaluable,” said Schrader. “The Christian atmosphere and value system meant so much to my wife, Holly, and I. If we can help provide that kind of opportunity to other young adults, we want to do so.”
When Schrader’s former coach, Jim Kessler, retired a few years ago, Schrader helped lead the charge to raise substantial funds for an endowed scholarship fund in Kessler’s honor. He has also been a member of the Grace School of Business Advisory Council.
Through his leadership on the council, the school has updated its curriculum and the business program has grown to be Grace’s largest academic school. His support for the accounting program has resulted in an endowed professorship.
Schrader has also been integral in assisting Grace with selling farms gifted to the institution. He has connected several students with job opportunities, and he remains a faithful supporter of Grace basketball.
“In spite of all his accomplishments, when I think of RD, I think about him attending Grace’s basketball games, walking hand-inhand with his young granddaughter, enjoying his alma mater and introducing Grace to the next generation,” said Flamm. “He truly defines the phrase ‘humble Hoosier.’”
Schrader has also made a profound impact on Huntington University in Huntington.
“In my role, I have the privilege of meeting many individuals who serve our institutions and the state of Indiana well,” said Dr. Sherilyn Emberton, president of Huntington University. “However, few of them have dedicated their service to our rural private institutions with such intentionality as RD.”
At Huntington University, Schrader is a member of the board of trustees and has been a leader in innovative projects, particularly in the field of agriculture. He is a driving force for HU’s agriculture programs. He sits on the Agriculture Advisory Council and has been instrumental in developing the Haupert Institute for Agricultural Studies. His leadership had a direct impact on the construction of the Don Strauss Animal Science Education Center, which opened new opportunities for students to work with livestock on campus.
Most recently, Schrader was influential in establishing a partnership between Huntington University and Purdue University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. This partnership has led to a dual-degree program where students concurrently earn a Bachelor of Science degree in animal health from HU and an Associate of Applied Science degree in veterinary nursing from Purdue. Schrader also funded a full-time veterinary nursing faculty position at HU.
P ublic A uctions
Nappanee Christmas Auction
5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5. Located at the Claywood Event Center, 13924 N. 1100W, Nappanee. Town of Wakarusa
Surplus Equipment Auction
9 a.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Located at 311 High St., Wakarusa.
Online Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Open house 1-2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1. Property located at 3757 S. SR 25, Mentone. Twobed home just off Palestine Lake. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Online Estate Auction
Bidding open until 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Pickup located in Mentone. Retro furniture and decor, appliances, vintage radios and electronics, primitives, parlor lamps, Tupperware and Corelle. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Great Outdoor and Sportsman Auction
As HU’s Haupert Institute continues to expand and see enrollment growth, Schrader is committed to motivating and inspiring HU students with a passion for agriculture and providing them with excellent agricultural education. His involvement extends to career development, as he provides internship opportunities to students and employment opportunities to graduates at Schrader Real Estate and Auction.
“I have so much respect for private schools and the markets they serve,” said Schrader. “While being inducted into the Indiana Academy was a great honor, perhaps the greatest blessing is knowing I played a role in helping Dr. Sherilyn Emberton and Dr. Drew Flamm accomplish their institutional goals.”
To learn more about ICI’s Indiana Academy, visit icindiana.org/ our-programs/the-indiana-academy.
9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Located at Polk Auction Co., 72435 SR 15, New Paris.
Online Coin Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Silver dollars, gold, coin books, foreign notes, proof and mint sets, seated dimes, coin jewelry. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Byrer Real Estate Auction
6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9. Located at 401 S. Oakland Ave., Nap-
panee. Property located 4 miles east of Bremen on US 6 or 4 miles west of Nappanee, on US 6 across from Pla-Mor Campground. One parcel, 37.1 acres tillable land. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Phone Bid Real
Estate Auction
Bidding open until 4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11. Property located at 4755 N. 450W, Shipshewana. Public inspections 3-5 p.m. Tuesdays or by appointment. For bidding and bidding updates, call (260) 499-0216 or (260) 499-0093.
Online Coin Auction
Bidding open until 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Silver dollars and rounds, gold plated coins, proof sets, graded coins, seated dimes, two cent piece, buffalo nickels, barber coins. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Online Coin, Jewelry and Collectibles Auction
Bidding open until 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12. Preview 1-3 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9, located at 401 S. Oakland Ave., Nappanee. Coins, jewelry, trading cards, lighters, knives. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Online Estate Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12. Pickup located in Wakarusa. Antiques, primitives, advertising, clocks, thermometers, glassware, pottery, toys, art, bikes. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Purdue Extension
Continued from page 13
tle production book, a forage field guide, a forage test and a binder containing materials from each session.
To register or for more information call Kathryn Jennings at (574) 533-0554 or email jennin30@purdue.edu. Registration is required to participate. This program and all programs of the Purdue University Extension Service are open to everyone. If you need an accommodation to participate in this program, call Jennings at (574) 533-0554. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
INDUCTED INTO THE INDIANA ACADEMY Rex D. (RD) Schrader II, center, was nominated by Dr. Sherilyn Emberton, left, and Dr. Drew Flamm, right, to be inducted into the prestigious Indiana Academy. Photo provided by Grace College.
4-H leader’s banquet recognizes outstanding volunteers/partners
Elkhart County’s 4-H adult volunteer leaders, clubs and supporters of 4-H were recognized Thursday evening, Nov. 7, at Grace Community Church in Goshen.
The Spirit of 4-H Award is the highest award the Elkhart County 4-H Club Corporation organization can bestow upon someone. It is not something that is awarded on a yearly basis, but rather, when incredible dedication and passion for 4-H needs to be recognized. This year the Spirit of 4-H Award was presented to Lori Stickel for her many years of outstanding work with the Elkhart County 4-H Dog Club.
Receiving Friend of 4-H Awards were Shelly Steury, Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce, Stephenson’s of Elkhart and Greencroft Goshen. These awards
are presented to those who have contributed to the Elkhart County 4-H program by leadership direction or program support.
4-H Emerald Cup recognizes the top three 4-H clubs for their outstanding work and community service in Elkhart County in 2024. The Emerald Award winners were Concord Lads & Lassies, Clever Clovers and Foundations-4-Life.
Adult leader awards are based on tenure and involvement in the many aspects of the 4-H program. The recipient of the Bronze Award, 1-5 years of leadership, was Brandi Henderson. Heather Cash was awarded the Silver Award,6-11 years of leadership.
The Gold Award, 12 years or more of leadership, was presented to Cindy Evers. The Platinum
Award was presented to Ken Metzler.
The program for the evening was a presentation by Interim State 4-H Program Leader, Tony Carrell. He shared information on statewide 4-H trends and changes since 2020. Several special awards were presented during the evening.
This was the 78th year of continuous sponsorship by the Elkhart County Farm Bureau, Inc., Interra Credit Union and Keystone Cooperative. Two-hundred fifteen 4-H volunteers, family members, friends and supporters gathered for this special evening.
The 4-H Adult Leader Recognition Banquet was organized to thank all community volunteers and partners for a successful 2024 program year.
‘Reality Store’ teaches kids real-life money skills
Purdue Extension Kosciusko County partnered with West Central Middle School in Francesville, Pulaski County, to bring the “Reality Store” program to 56 students in eighth grade.
The educational initiative consisted of six interactive sessions, each lasting 45 minutes, designed to teach essential money management skills.
Through “Reality Store,” students engaged in hands-on activities aimed at empowering them to track their spending, create budgets, devise weekly meal plans and navigate typical monthly expenses. The program’s goal was to enhance financial literacy and prepare students for real-life financial responsibilities.
Survey results reveal that 98% of students who participated in the “Reality Store” program reported gaining knowledge they expect to positively impact their lives.
Key findings include:
• 98% plan to save for emergencies or unexpected events.
• 98% now understand the importance of budgeting.
• 96% are confident in their ability to complete a check registry.
When asked what key takeaways they gained, students shared:
• “You have to be careful and think through your spending choices.”
• “It’s expensive to be a parent.”
• “Life isn’t cheap, and if you’re not careful, you’ll be living paycheck to paycheck.”
• “Be more responsible with money.”
• “How to manage my finances better.”
The responses highlight the financial awareness instilled by the program, equipping students with a deeper understanding of budgeting, spending and long-term financial planning.
For more information about the “Reality Store” program or to learn how to implement it in your own school, contact Shannon Shepherd, Kosciusko County health and human science educator, at (574) 372-2340 or via email at shephe52@purdue.edu.
Heritage Gathering Primitive Show Dec. 7 in Pierceton
The Heritage Gathering Primitive Show is gearing up for its 2024 season. The show will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at Pierceton Elementary School, 434 S. First St., Pierceton.
All vendors are juried, creating a mixture of antique, crafting and primitive vendors. The Pierceton Chamber Committee looks for vendors meeting the specific criteria for primitive antique aesthetics in order to create a unique show. There will be between 30 and 40 vendors spread out between the school entry, gymnasium, hallways and cafeteria. Shoppers can browse the booths to find unique holiday gifts or treasures to take home for themselves.
A food booth with refreshments will be available for shoppers, along with fresh kettle corn, which has become an annual favorite for vendors and guests alike.
While in town, visitors to the show also have the chance to visit a variety of shops with specialties, such as antiques, gifts, jewelry, collectibles and more. Stores will be holding a Shop Hop to coincide with the Heritage Gathering Primitive Show. Many stores will be bringing out new inventory, promoting sales or offering giveaways or drawings.
For more details on the town of Pierceton and its shopping district, visit the Pierceton Chamber’s Facebook page or its website at piercetonchamber.com.
SPIRIT OF 4-H — The Spirit of 4-H Award is the highest award the Elkhart County 4-H Club Corporation organization can bestow upon someone. It is not something that is awarded on a yearly basis, but rather, when incredible dedication and passion for 4-H needs to be recognized. This year the Spirit of 4-H Award was presented to Lori Stickel for her many years of outstanding work with the Elkhart County 4-H Dog Club.
Shown is Circuit Court Judge Michael Christofeno, Stickel and Robert Kelly, County Extension director.
Photo provided by Elkhart County Purdue Extension.
Wednesday, December 4, 2024
SWCD STAFF & PARTNERS:
Tashina Lahr-Manifold — Soil Health Specialist
Amanda Heltzel — Education & Outreach Coordinator
Nathaniel Wise — Conservation Program Technician
Dawn Armey — Executive Director
NATURAL RESOURCE
CONSERVATION SERVICE:
Chad Schotter — District Conservationist
SWCD Supervisors:
David Ransbottom — Chairman
Ryan Martin — Treasurer
Stan Moore — Supervisor
Luke Mullet — Supervisor
TVHS biology students learn about water quality
By AMANDA HELTZEL SWCD Education Coordinator
Students in the biology classes at Tippecanoe Valley High School spent a week focused on learning about water quality. TVHS science teacher, Tricia Sederholm, had previously worked with Hoosier Riverwatch certified staff at Peru Utilities to teach Peru students about water quality and wanted to bring the program to TVHS.
“We are hoping to get students out of the classroom to explore their own environment,” said Sederholm.
Kosciusko SWCD staff and volunteers visited the high school for a day to teach the students about water quality issues in Indiana, focusing on the impacts of erosion and nutrient runoff on aquatic ecosystems. Students learned how to test for sediment, plated E. coli bacteria samples and measured dissolved oxygen and nitrates.
On the following day, students pulled on waders to search a local creek for aquatic macroinvertebrates and conduct a biological assessment. This was when the real fun began — for many students stomping in the creek was a new experience.
Students found a high diversity of animals, including dragonfly nymphs, cranefly larvae and crayfish. They found the creek had an excellent Pollution Tolerance Index rating, indicating a low level of pollution.
Thank you to Warsaw Community High School for lending waders for students’ use, to Hoosier Riverwatch for supplying testing equipment and to volunteers for sharing your knowledge, time and resources with students.
Hoosier Riverwatch is a program of
HIGH DIVERSITY OF ANIMALS Students found a high diversity of animals, including dragonfly nymphs, cranefly larvae and crayfish.
the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. It is focused on engaging Indiana citizens in becoming active stewards of water resources through volunteer stream monitoring.
Indiana DNR state nursery offers tree seedling sales
Kosciusko County SWCD will be picking up tree orders from the state nursery in the spring of 2025. If you are interested in purchasing trees through the DNR State Nursery, visit this link — in.gov/dnr/forestry/tree-seedling-nurseries — for instructions on how to place your order.
There will be a third-party delivery
fee in the amount of $10 per bundle of 100. This fee is in addition to the $10 handling fee charged by the DNR at the time of purchase. The third-party delivery fee is due to Kosciusko SWCD at the time of pick up in May.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at (574) 267-7445, ext. 3.
Farmers encouraged to keep stubble this fall
The Natural Resources Conservation Service is encouraging Indiana farmers to keep the tillage equipment in the machine shed during No-Till November and beyond.
The NRCS campaign encourages farmers to “keep the stubble” on their harvested crops fields. The campaign has reached about 2 million people nationally through Twitter and local media since its inception 2017.
“No-till farming is a cornerstone soil health conservation practice, which also promotes water quality while saving farmers time and money. It is also a key climate smart practice, that helps store more carbon in the soil,” said Kosciusko County NRCS District Conservationist Chad Schotter. “One of the first soil health principles is ‘do not disturb’. This campaign is a fun way to remind farmers about the important relationship between tillage and soil health.”
Improving soil health increases soil biological activity, which provides erosion control, nutrient benefits and can simulate tillage.
For more information, please visit www. nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/in/soils/health/. Why No-Till?
Leave the tillage equipment parked in the shed this fall. Consider the benefits of no-till, which is a way of growing crops or pasture from
KEEP STUBBLE Leaving bean or corn stubble after harvest protects the soil over winter and sets the stage for spring no-till. year to year with minimal soil disturbance. No-till improves soil health by not disturbing soil microbiology. Beneficial soil microbes are essential for growing food, fiber and fuel. Repeated tillage undermines soil structure and reduces aggregate stability; it breaks down organic matter and releases carbon stored in the soil.
No-till is a key climate-smart farming practice, helping healthy soil store more carbon sequestered from the atmosphere to mitigate climate change. Continued on page 2
WADERS Students pulled on waders to search a local creek for aquatic macroinvertebrates and conduct a biological assessment.
Top trees for tricky terrain
By NATHANIEL WISE
Although this brief overview cannot give suggestions for every need, read on for a handful of common troublesome scenarios and recommended suitable species from our upcoming tree sale.
Soggy Spots
Low-lying areas with wet soils, or which flood seasonally, can easily frustrate attempts to introduce trees; however, there are several species included in our sale which tolerate these conditions. Famously, bald cypress flourishes even in areas with standing water since they hail from swamp lands.
Two other coniferous species, which can handle wet conditions, include American arborvitae and Norway spruce. Remaining small and providing great ornamental value, redbud and witch hazel also offers resilience on wet sites.
Dry Ground
In the opposite situation, areas which are especially dry, a surprising species could be the solution to your water-less woes: bald cypress once again tops the list. Profoundly adaptable despite their swampy origins, they exhibit remarkable tenacity in droughty soils. Keep in mind any plant will struggle mightily if faced with insufficient water when newly transplanted, so offering supplemental water until the trees establish themselves completely remains important for success.
Small Yards
Despite their limited space, urban or
suburban yards present underutilized opportunities to introduce native tree, which support pollinators and wildlife, while also enhancing the visual landscape. Our sale will offer a good selection of small trees and shrubs fit to purpose, but here are just a few of note: redbuds are deservedly popular as a landscaping tree due to their small size and bright pink spring flowers.
Serviceberry, however, is grossly underrated and offers exceptional ornamental value and wildlife value throughout all four seasons with profuse spring blooms, summer fruits, fall color and an attractive form in winter.
Finally, American arborvitae maintains a moderate size and provides winter greenery and cover for wildlife.
Shade
Adapted for growth under the shadow of larger trees, native under-story trees present an array of ideal choices for shady sites. The aforementioned redbud and downy service berry count among these, but white dogwood and witch hazel are two further species suitable for shade.
Witch hazel is a lesser-known but extremely interesting shrub, which produces sprays of yellow flowers in the fall, when few other plants offer floral color. For those interested in a shade-tolerant evergreen, balsam fir reaches a moderate-mature size, and their rounded, deep green needles provide year-round greenery.
Finally, sugar maple, a large deciduous tree with resplendent fall color, can reliably withstand limited sunlight.
Orders will open in early February 2025. Keep an eye on our website, social media and this newsletter for updates. We will once again offer online ordering and encourage everyone to take advantage of this option to limit the amount of paper and energy used to mail hard copies with checks and to ensure that your order is in stock. See next for an overview of all the species included in the upcoming sale.
Deciduous trees — Bald cypress, black walnut, butternut, red oak, sugar maple, tulip tree.
Evergreen trees — American arborvitae, balsam fir, Norway spruce, white pine.
Ornamental trees and shrubs — American hazelnut, downy serviceberry, redbud, white dogwood, witch hazel.
Ground covers — creeping phlox (purple), creeping phlox (pink), sedum kamtschaticum.
Wet waders and little learners
By AMANDA HELTZEL SWCD Education Coordinator
How do you build a community of water-literate citizens? We believe it all begins with connecting students to their local lands and waters.
This calendar year, we completed 33 days of water quality sampling at local creeks and rivers with over 3,000 students from Warsaw and Tippecanoe Valley schools. K-12 students sampled Cherry Creek, Eagle Creek, Ring Creek, Gast Creek and the Tippecanoe River for macroinvertebrates, dissolved oxygen and other water-quality parameters.
In the creek, kids become citizen scientists for a day though a hands-on water quality experience.
The Kosciusko SWCD would like to thank the Dekko Foundation for its support of this program with the award of a grant to purchase waders, nets and other related supplies.
In 2024, our goal was to decrease student-to-instructor ratios so that volunteers and employees could more effectively facilitate student discovery of aquatic ecosystems and water quality, encouraging students to
become informed citizens and young scientists.
With the purchase of waders for volunteer and staff use, the SWCD has seen an average increase of two additional instructors at the creek and 13 new education volunteers at creek programs compared to 2023. This is a win for students, who now have a more supportive learning environment in the outdoors facilitated by additional instructors. Thank you to the Dekko Foundation for funding this project and to our volunteers for sharing your time to teach students about water quality.
CHERRY CREEK First grade students from Jefferson Elementary School survey Cherry Creek.
RING CREEK Kindergarteners from Claypool Elementary School searched for macroinvertebrates in Ring Creek.
Students view birds through a new lens
By AMANDA HELTZEL SWCD Education Coordinator
My dad has always encouraged me that if there is a tool I need to help me at my job, it will be worth the investment. This has been great advice. When I was a biologist, I needed to keep track of the tiny nuthatches I was studying so I bought a better pair of binoculars.
Oftentimes, when we think of tools, we
imagine hammers and wrenches, not magnifying glasses, soil probes or any other number of environmental tools. What we all know is that when we have the right tool for the job, we can expect better outcomes.
The “job” of a student is to learn. We want students to discover the joys and value of the environment through our education programs at Kosciusko SWCD. This is where birds come in.
Birds are a great entry point for inspiring people to care about nature. Birds are charismatic and inspire interest in the natural world. Birds are accessible. No matter your age, physical ability, location, culture or any other number of circumstances, you too can enjoy watching birds. Birds are also a barometer of environmental health. The presence, absence and change in behavior of birds are in response to their environments. These things make birds a great focus for environmental education.
It is exciting to watch students light up when they spot a bird with the right tool for the job — binoculars. Arguably, you don’t need binoculars to enjoy birds as we can look and listen with just our eyes and ears; however, using binoculars encourages us to focus in on a bird and take time to observe, appreciate and learn. We have observed that binoculars often increase student engagement in outdoor programming.
With the help of several partners, we are
happy to share that we now have a new set of 30 youth binoculars for students to use at our programs. In October, local fourth grade students took them for a test run during our week of field trips to Wildwood in Silver Lake. Over 500 fourth-graders from Tippecanoe Valley and Warsaw elementary schools had an opportunity to learn about birds and try out binoculars. Students reported seeing white-breasted nuthatches, wood ducks, red-bellied woodpeckers and more. By a show of hands, every fourth-grade class indicated that birdwatching was their favorite activity of the field trip.
We would like to thank the Tippecanoe Audubon Society, the Indiana Audubon Society Mumford and Keller Grant Program and Vortex Optics for funding the purchase of binoculars. Thanks to these partners we have been able to put the right tool in the hands of kids so that they can learn to love nature.
Grant
to Kosciusko County
Program
Kosciusko County Soil and Water Conservation District has been awarded a grant for the 2025-2027 period through The Clean Water Indiana Program. This grant will en-
able us to continue offering our free Annual Soil Conference, which focuses on largescale soil health education.
The conference will feature renowned speakers from across the U.S., providing a premier educational experience and valuable networking opportunities for producers in attendance. We want to thank CWI for this incredible opportunity.
BINOCULARS — Over 500 fourth-graders from Tippecanoe Valley and Warsaw elementary schools had an opportunity to learn about birds and try out binoculars.
www.the-papers.com
SWCD graduates 2024 Master Naturalist class —
underway for 2025 class
The final session of the Kosciusko County SWCD-sponsored 2024 Indiana Master Naturalist class was held in November.
The Kosciusko IMN class was held one night a month, from March through November, covering topics such as wildflowers, forestry, birds, geology, soils, aquatic sciences, habitats, historic naturalists and astronomy.
Participants enjoyed attending at various locations in multiple seasons, including Wildwood, Koinonia, Pisgah Marsh, Winona Lake, Oak Island, Dillon Tree Farm and Harrison Elementary School’s observatory. Additionally, our thanks to Washington Elementary School, the Kosciusko County Community Foundation
and Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian Church for use of its meeting spaces.
The Kosciusko class had 20 participants and 13 of them completed all requirements for certification. Certification entailed attending 80% of the classes, 24 hours of natural resource volunteer service and completing a final assessment.
The Indiana Master Naturalist program is sponsored by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, which certifies participants. Classes are sponsored by a variety of agencies, including the Kosciusko County SWCD. After initial certification, an Advanced Master Natural certification is possible.
• GPS Mapping/Application By Soil Types
• Custom Dry Blends
• Lime Spreading
• Liquid & Dry Starters
• Professional Application
• Small Seeds
• Crop Protection Chemicals
• Field Scouting
• Agro Chem Parts
Business Hours: 7:30 A.M.-5:00 P.M. M-F 37 E. 900 N. MILFORD, IN 46542
cfsmilford@ekova.com 574-658-4158 or 800-686-4158
Over 375 volunteer hours for natural resources organizations were logged by this year’s class. Organizations that IMN participants volunteered for included Kosciusko SWCD, Kosciusko Water and Woodland Invasive Partnership, Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation, Indiana DNR, Hoosier Riverwatch, Wild Ones South Bend Chapter, Potawatomi Wildlife Park, The Watershed Foundation and more.
The Kosciusko IMN steering committee is
busy planning the 2025 program. Spaces will be limited and filled on a first come, first served basis. To get on the waiting list, contact Amanda Heltzel at amanda.heltzel@in.nacdnet.net. A registration form will automatically be sent to you when they become available. You can also contact the SWCD office after the first of the year to request a registration form or stop by the office at 217 E. Bell Drive, Warsaw, to pick one up. We are looking forward to the 2025 class.
IMN GRADUATES Shown in front from left are Mythili Munichetty, Carol Blackford-Iddles, Brandy Cody, Kay Pylant, Andrea Keller, Betsy Hoffman, Frank Sapper and Cindy Peter-
son. In back are Brian Iddles, Eric Cody, Melinda Miller, Cecilie Keenan, Shannon Williams and Mike Hoffman.