An interview with Santa
Text and Photos
By LAUREN ZEUGNER Editor
Editor’s Note: Steve Foster, one of Santa’s dedicated helpers, assisted in this article.
As most children in Kosciusko County know, Santa has been making his rounds double checking his naughty and nice list. ‘the PAPER’ recently caught up with Santa, as he was taking a break between appearances, for an interview.
Q: How old are you Santa?
A: Ageless, but I try to maintain that 70-80-yearold look.
Q: How many elves do you have working for you?
A: There are thousands of elves who do all that needs to be done.
Q: How do you maintain your sleigh?
A: The elves keep the sleigh in tip-top shape. The elves do everything.
Q: Do the elves make toys all year long? Do they get vacation time?
A: Everybody is very happy doing what they do, and they make toys all year long. The elves do everything, and I oversee everything. The elves harness the reindeer; they do it all.
Q: How hard is it to land in a blinding snow storm?
A: That’s probably the best time to land, is in a snow storm ... The Christmas snow is nice and soft. It cuts down on the noise, so I can move nice and quietly.
Q: Are there kids really on the naughty list?
A: No
Q: What is the most unusual gift request you have received from a child.
A: A pair of shoestrings. He (a little boy) asked for a pair of shoestrings for his friend because when they played outside, his shoes would fall off.
Q: What is the most com-
mon gift children ask for?
A: Dolls for girls, some type of truck or sports equipment for boys.
Q: How is it possible for you to travel around the world in one night delivering toys to all the children?
A: I don’t not work under conventional time. I use some Santa magic to make the trip in 24 hours.
Q: Has the trip gotten easier or harder with airplanes flying while you’re traveling in your sleigh?
A: I don’t notice the planes; remember, I’m not subject to conventional time.
Q: What is your favorite cookie?
A: Chocolate chip.
Q: Do the reindeer enjoy the carrots some children leave out for them?
A: They do like the carrots, very much.
Q: If there is no chimney at a child’s home. How do you get in to deliver the gifts?
A: I create my own entrance to deliver the toys.
Q: What does Mrs. Claus do at the North Pole? Does she have a specific job?
A: She spends her time encouraging me to do what I do.
Santa has such a good time visiting with the children in North Webster, he’s coming back for Breakfast with Santa, which was held Saturday, Dec. 14.
ABOVE: A LONG WAIT — Shown is the line to see Santa during North Webster’s annual tree lighting last month. The line went out the door and didn’t really get shorter until just before the Christmas tree lighting. Children and their parents waited patiently to see Santa and tell them what they would like for Christmas.
RIGHT: ASKING FOR A TRAIN Jordy Al-Khateeb, right, was a tad shy about chatting with Santa, so her father, Yezan, went with her. She asked for a train “with all the bells and whistles,” which im pressed Santa. Al-Khateeb saw Santa when he came to North Webster for its annual tree lighting Nov. 23.
CHATTING WITH SANTA — While visiting North Webster for its annual Christmas tree lighting on Nov. 23, Santa chatted with these children about what they wanted for Christmas.
Moeller reflects on a year of tattoo apprenticeship
By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer
Jackson Moeller recently met the one-year mark in his apprenticeship at Moving Pictures Tattoo Cinema in Warsaw, and the anniversary has given him a lot to think about.
Originally from Noblesville, Moeller moved with his family to Warsaw at age 11. He also went from home schooling to attending public school, an adjustment that had him looking to drawing for support and self-expression.
“Learning how much art and creative expression mattered to me really helped me stay grounded and gave me an escape,” he recalled.
It was in art class at Edgewood Middle School that he met close friend, Baxter Roland, who also apprentices at Moving Pictures Tattoo Cinema.
“I spent a lot of time with him and his family growing up. His family is super, super serious about art. They’re all very creative people and spending time around them showed me that if I put enough time into my art I could make a living out of it,” Moeller said.
A fan of comics and cartoons since childhood, Moeller first thought he might become a comic book artist or animator before switching to tattooing.
Each day at the studio involves working on a different skill. Currently, Moeller is working on his lettering, honing the ability to break down a font and translate the art of writing into drawing. He also explores different styles through his work, with traditional Japanese tattoos being a favorite of his.
An apprenticeship requires a variety of artistic skills as well
as gaining mastery of the tattoo machinery.
“You have to make sure you are a solid artist who understands the fundamentals — being able to structure things, shading, visual harmony, layout and design, making sure the piece is balanced. All of that stuff is critically important, but when it comes to tattooing, it’s learning how to work with the machine, the functionality and different kinds of needles,” he said.
There are many groups of tattoo needles with different uses, Moeller explained, including liners, shaders and magnums — or mags — which can be used like a paintbrush to fill in color.
Before they can actually put needle to skin, an apprentice first practices on silicon sheets called “fake skin.”
“Sometimes there are molds that are made of fake hands or heads or different body parts,” Moeller added. “It helps you practice making sure you have a steady hand and you’re holding the machine at a proper angle ... There are a lot of variables depending on what line you’re trying to create.”
There is also a social aspect to being a good tattoo artist.
“You have to be able to listen to people, to understand their story and where they’re coming
Continued on page 3
Early deadlines
The Kosciusko edition of ‘the PAPER’ will observe early deadlines for the issues of Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. Dec 25 Issue
All news copy, display advertising and classified advertising must be in the Warsaw, Syracuse or Milford office by 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20.
All offices of The Papers will close at noon Tuesday, Dec. 24 and be closed all day Wednesday, Dec. 25, in observance of Christmas.
The Warsaw and Milford office will reopen Thursday, Dec. 26. Jan. 1 issue
All news copy, display advertising and classified advertising must be in the Warsaw, Syracuse or Milford office by 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 27.
All offices of The Papers will close at noon Tuesday, Dec. 31 and be closed all day Wednesday, Jan. 1, in observance of News Years Day.
The Warsaw and Milford office will reopen Thursday, Jan. 2.
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THE TATTOO ARTIST’S APPRENTICE Jackson Moeller looks through a drawer of tattoo needles at Moving Pictures Tattoo Cinema in Warsaw, the shop he’s been apprenticing at for the past year. In one hand is a silicon arm for practice tattooing purposes. Photo by Lilli Dwyer.
BIGGER SHOWROOM Pro Wake Water Sports in Leesburg celebrated its showroom expansion with a ribbon cutting Friday, Dec. 6.
Pictured in the front row from left are Jeff Dyson, Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce; Jeanetta Slabaugh, Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce, Horizon Bank; Ashley Dillon, director, Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce; Jeff Kiess, Pro Wake Watersports; Patty Richards; Owner Mark Richards; Jenna Habegger, Pro Wake Watersports; Emily Shipley, president, North Webster-Tippecanoe Chamber of Commerce; Karen White, North Webster-Tippecanoe Chamber of Commerce Chamber; Dawn Jaggers, Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce; Rob Parker, president and CEO, Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce;
and Scott Wiley, member relations manager, Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce.
In the back row are Shawn Brown, ambassador, Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce; Chris Scheeren, Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce, Blue Barn Berry Farm; Russ Vance, ambassador, Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce, ReMax Results; Jason Dewart, Interra Credit Union, Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce; Chris Trowbridge, North Webster-Tippecanoe Chamber of Commerce; Josh Himelick, North Webster-Tippecanoe Chamber of Commerce; Northwest Bank; and Nicole Nabinger, Kinetic Firearms, North Webster-Tippecanoe Chamber of Commerce. Photo by Phoebe Muthart.
Pro Wake expands showroom, hosts ribbon cutting
By PHOEBE MUTHART Staff Writer
Pro Wake Water Sports in Leesburg celebrated its showroom expansion with a ribbon cutting Friday, Dec. 6.
The Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce, Kosciusko Cham-
Moeller
Continued from page 2
from,” he explained.
Now on the precipice of graduating from fake skin to real skin and looking to open up his books, Moeller described himself as “excited and nervous” at the prospect of creating permanent wearable art for tattooing clients.
“Knowing that I’m gonna start having the ability to help people express themselves and carry that with them and tell their own stories, that feels super fulfilling. I’m really excited. But now I also don’t want to mess up and give them something they’re disappointed with, so that’s a lot of pressure. But I think that pressure’s a good thing. That means I’m going to give it my all. When I do start tattooing people, I’m gonna spend as much time as possible working on their design to make they’re as satisfied as I can make them,” he said. “Beginning this journey has made it so my art has become about more than just me. That’s a really big honor and a really big responsibility at the same time.”
When not at the tattoo studio, Moeller enjoys playing video and board games with friends, watching movies, spending time with family and exercising.
ber and North Webster-Tippecanoe Chamber of Commerce all helped celebrate the newly remodeled showroom.
Owner Mark Richards said the expansion was needed to accommodate three new boat lines.
Richards said he added on 2,200 square feet in the showroom, which now has six new boats on display.
“I needed the additional space, especially in the winter time,” he said.
The new boats lines are: Scout, Lancer Craft and Baretta.
Pro Wake also carries Supra, Moomba, Sylvan and Harris.
“This allows us more diversity by reaching out to more clientele besides just surf boats and pontoons,” Richards explained.
Pro Wake Watersports was established in North Webster in 2012.
Richards said Pro Wake “sells,
stores and services everything watercraft related.”
Pro Wake also has a surf shop with clothing, vests, sunglasses and more.
A secondary location is also in Syracuse.
For more information, visit, prowake.com, its Facebook page or call (574) 834-1334. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Carthage College nursing students receive white coat
Devon Kuhn, Leesburg, participated in Carthage College’s White Coat Ceremony. This milestone signifies the transition from pre-nursing classes to vocational course work for the remaining two years at Carthage before becoming a professional nurse.
The 68 students were celebrated on Saturday, Sept. 28, in the A.F. Siebert Chapel on cam-
pus in Kenosha, Wis. Carthage College’s nursing program continues to thrive with a growing enrollment, supported by stateof-the-art labs and simulation
facilities. This innovative program equips future health care professionals with the skills to provide compassionate and excellent nursing care.
11 a.m.-5 p.m.
11 a.m.-5 p.m. • Sunday 12 p.m.-4 p.m. 574-224-2200 petunias.antiques@gmail.com
EDITORIAL OFFICES, CIRCULATION, DISPLAY AND CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING
WARSAW OFFICE MILFORD OFFICE
KBOR annual Boots For Scholars hosts 25 children
For the 12th year in a row, with the assistance of Tammy Smith, Big Brothers Big Sisters community development director Kosciusko County, the Kosciusko Board of Realtors partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana and hosted “Littles” and their “Bigs” for its Boots for Scholars Program.
On Thursday, Nov. 21, the evening started with KBOR hosting 25 children and their mentors for dinner at Papa Vino’s in Warsaw. After dinner the attendees headed to Shoe Carnival, where the adults assisted the children in selecting winter boots using gift cards provided by KBOR. Big Brothers Big Sisters and KBOR have partnered with Shoe Carnival for all 12 years of this program and appreciates the staff for their assistance and hospitality.
Big Brothers Big Sisters mission is to help children reach their potential through support and one-to-one relationships. That mission aligns perfectly
with KBOR’s core belief that families thrive when community partners come together to provide support and assistance where needed.
SYRACUSE OFFICE
114 West Market St. 206 S. Main St. 102 East Main St. Warsaw, IN 46580 P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542 Syracuse, IN 46567 Phone (574) 269-2932 Phone (574) 658-4111 Phone (574) 457-3666 Fax 888-371-2934 1-800-733-4111 Fax 800-886-3796
Out-Of-County: Phone 1-800-733-4111
OFFICE HOURS: 8:00-5:00 Monday Thru Friday www.thepapersonline.com
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Grocery
SUSAN R. MCCLANAHAN PROMOTED Lake City Bank has announced that Susan R. McClanahan has been promoted to vice president, home equity manager. In this position, McClanahan is responsible for underwriting loan applications, preparing reports and managing the home equity processing team. She has been with the bank for 26 years.
McClanahan volunteers with Junior Achievement of Northern Indiana. Photo provided by Lake City Bank.
Supplements versus the real thing
By EMILY CHRIST Health and Human Sciences
In an age where health-conscious individuals are constantly seeking ways to optimize their well-being, the debate between supplements and whole foods has gained significant attention.
The allure of vitamins and minerals packed into convenient pills or capsules is undeniable but are they a true substitute for the nutrients found in whole foods? Let’s explore the merits of both approaches and help you make informed choices for your nutrition.
Supplements are like nutritional shortcuts offering a concentrated dose of specific vitamins, minerals or other compounds without the
need for meal planning or preparation. They are particularly appealing for those with busy lifestyles or dietary restrictions; however, they can come with some pitfalls.
Supplements often isolate specific nutrients, such as Vitamin C or calcium, without the myriads of accompanying compounds found in whole foods. Whole foods provide a synergistic blend of vitamins, minerals, fiber and phytochemicals. They work together for optimal absorption and health benefits.
The body’s ability to absorb nutrients from supplements can vary based on individual factors, the supplement form (e.g. pill or liquid), and the presence of certain co-factors. For instance, some vitamins require fat for absorption while others work best with specific minerals. Not all supplements
are created equal. The quality, purity and bio-availability of supplements can vary widely. It’s essential to choose reputable brands and consult a health care professional when necessary.
Some supplements are derived from whole-food sources providing a more natural and balanced approach to supplementation. In the end, the age-old wisdom of “food is medicine” holds true.
Whole foods provide a holistic approach to nutrition while supplements can serve as a useful complement in certain situations. The key to a healthy and balanced diet is understanding when to choose one over the other and how to integrate them seamlessly into your lifestyle. Remember, there’s no one-size-fitsall answer and the best approach is one that aligns with your individual health goals and needs.
DONATION RECEIVED — Angie Jarret, KBOR committee member; Dominic Palmitessa, KBOR committee member, Northwest Bank; and Tammy Smith, Big Brothers Big Sisters with a donation from Northwest Bank. Photo provided by KBOR.
SHOPPING FOR SHOES A participant of Big Brothers Big Sisters is shown with a pair of tennis shoes with Nicki Parson, KBOR committee member. Photo provided by KBOR.
Dots and Dreams Scents in
Dec. 9,
representatives of the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce.
Pictured in the front row from left are Karen White, Caliber Designs, secretary of the chamber; Becky Stevens; Cris Kistler; Taran Kistler, owner; Emily Shipley, chamber president; Tyler Huffer, Titus Funeral Home, chamber board of directors; Elise Guy, Guy’s Lawn Care, chamber treasurer; and Nicole Nabinger, Kinetic Firearms, chamber board of directors. In the back row are Ronald Schroeder; Jane Schroeder; Chris Trowbridge, Maverick Promotions, chamber board of directors; Gwen Fuchs, Northwest Bank, chamber board of directors; and Josh Himelick, Northwest Bank, chamber board of directors. Photo by Susan Stump.
Dots and Dreams Scents opens in North Webster
Dots and Dreams Scents celebrated its opening by having a ribbon cutting Monday, Dec. 9.
COURTNEY OZMINKOWSKI
Crossroads Bank welcomes Courtney Ozminkowski
Crossroads Bank has announced Courtney Ozminkowski has joined the team as vice president, Top Retail Banking Officer. With extensive experience in financial services, Ozminkowski is known for her strong leadership and innovative problem-solving abilities. She plans to leverage her expertise in high-level customer service, product development and treasury management to drive success at Crossroads Bank.
Originally from Columbia City, Ozminkowski has become an active and dedicated member of the Miami County community. As a committed leader, she serves as president of both Rotary and Junior Achievement of Miami County.
Ozminkowski contributes to the community through organizing fundraising events, teaching educational courses and participating in various local initiatives, including the Miami County 4-H Fair, United Way Monte Carlo, Ivy Tech, Circus City Festival, Harvesting Capabilities Chili Cook-Off, Second Saturdays and Rotary International.
“Over the past nine years in community banking, I’ve gained a deep understanding of the vital role bankers play in addressing the needs of their communities. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to share my expertise and inspire others to create meaningful change. I am excited to join the Crossroads team and contribute to our shared mission of enriching the communities we serve,” said Ozminkowski.
The ribbon cutting was hosted by North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce.
Taran Kistler, owner of Dots and Dreams Scents, said it creates scent-themed wax melts, candles, reed diffusers, and room sprays. He sells products, which are made to be strong and long lasting, for those who struggle to find hardy scents capable of getting the job done.
Dots and Dreams Scents was started with the idea that creative visual expression and presentation can amplify the experience and satisfaction given by
the scents candles and wax melts add to people’s homes.
The store also has gifts for Christmas or one’s own home decor. Other hand-crafted items can also be found at Dots and Dreams.
Dots and Dreams Scents is located at 225 N. Main St., Suite D, North Webster. Winter hours may vary but it is always open on weekends.
Call (574) 377-4966 for more information, or visit dotsanddreamscents.com or its Facebook page, or email dotsanddreamsscents@gmail.com.
Summers Plumbing donates
food, money to Salvation Army
Summers
lecting,
Summers
requests
SECOND PLACE WINNER Justin Turner was the second place winner of the North Webster Christmas Cash promotion, earning him $100 in Webster Christmas Cash. His entry was registered at NAPA in North Webster. Sheila Turner, his wife, left, accepted the winnings on his behalf from Russ Bradley, NAPA manager, right. Photo by Susan Stump.
FIRST PLACE WINNER The first place winner in ‘the PAPER’s’ North Webster Christmas Cash promotion was Misty Smalley of Leesburg. She registered at Pine Outdoor Apparel in North Webster. She won $250 in Webster Bucks, which can be spent at any of the seven locations that participated in this year’s promotion. Pictured are Connie Hagen, left, and Smalley. Photo by Susan Stump.
THIRD PLACE WINNER Rene Perry was the third place winner in ‘the PAPER’s’ North Webster Christmas Cash promotion. Perry registered at The River Coffee House in North Webster. Perry received $50 in Webster cash, which can be spent at any of the participating locations. Photo by Susan Stump.
Capture memories: Enter photos for TWF photo contest
Share your greatest moments by entering the “Picture Your Watershed” photo contest. The contest is sponsored by The Watershed Foundation.
Submit your entry by Tuesday, Dec. 31 to capture the stunning scenes and memorable moments which make lakes, landscapes, and wildlife so special. From scenic views to outdoor fun, photos help showcase and protect the places cherished.
The contest is open to participants of all ages. Images should showcase the Upper Tippecanoe River Watershed. All photographs should accurately reflect the subject matter and the scene as it appeared. Each photo must be submitted electronically. All photos submitted must include the photographer’s name and contact information, location the image was taken, and the category in which to photo is to be judged. People may enter multiple photos in multiple categories.
the “Picture Your Watershed” photo contest. Photo provided by The Watershed Foundation.
for the
Kosciusko REMC now taking applications for youth programs
Kosciusko REMC is now accepting applications for students to attend the annual Camp Kilowatt in Indiana and the Youth Tour to Washington, D.C.
Camp Kilowatt will be held June 4-7, 2025, at Camp Tecumseh in Brookston. The Youth Tour to Washington, D.C., will take place June 15-22, 2025.
Camp Kilowatt is a camp experience for sixth-grade students going into seventh grade across Indiana. Kids get the chance to learn more about energy, while making new friends and participating in activities and games.
The Youth Tour to Washington, D.C., is for students going into their senior year of high school. All expenses are paid for students selected to participate. It is a seven-day educational trip, which includes visits to historical monuments and museums as well as meetings on Capitol Hill with Indiana’s congressional delegation.
“We are thrilled to be accepting applications for Camp Kilowatt
Images will be judged on originality, technical excellence, composition, overall impact and artistic merit. Images will be judged in the following categories:
• Lovin’ the Lakes: People engaged in lake activities, such as tubing, swimming, walking along the shore, etc.
• Wet ‘n’ Wildlife: Animals and wildlife.
• Nature’s Studio: Landscapes and watery reflections.
• Pollution Solutions: Capturing volunteer efforts and the fixes protecting the lakes.
• Memories of the Lakes: Vintage photos of life and loved ones at local lakes.
Voting for the People’s Choice Awards runs from Jan. 1-31, 2025. All awards will be announced in February.
For more information or to submit a photo, visit watershedfoundation.org.
and the Youth Tour to Washington, D.C.,” said Tara Haack, vice president of marketing and communications at Kosciusko REMC.
“These programs provide a wonderful opportunity to invest in the students in our community every year. Students will get to learn more about energy and the role of electric cooperatives, while having fun and making lifelong memories.”
To apply for the program, visit kremc.com/youth-programs. The application deadline for both is March 3, 2025.
CHRISTMAS IN NAPPANEE — Members of Encounter Church of Nappanee created a nativity scene on its float
Miracles at Main and Market Street Parade Saturday, Dec. 7. Photo by Nathan Pace.
SKIING SANTA Get inspired by The Watershed Foundation board member, Ryan Drake, skiing as Santa on Lake Tippecanoe, and share your greatest moments by entering
WARSAW VARSITY GIRLS BASKETBALL — The Warsaw Lady Tigers in no particular order are: Lucy Andrew, Abbey Peterson, Alexis Neely, Madison Branam, Joslyn Bricker, Kyra Kiser, Brooke Winchester, Brooke Zartman, Braylie Chastain, Leila Knepp and Erin McManus, Kelsey Wrenn and Cayleigh Go-
WARSAW GIRLS VARSITY BASKETBALL SCHEDULE
Nov. 26 at Penn 4A W 66-46
Elkhart Goshen Middlebury Nappanee Wakarusa Warsaw Plymouth Silver Lake Ashkum, IL Kankakee, IL
heen. Student assistants are Eva Demopoulos, Makenna Moore, Rose Castillo and Sadie Brown. Head coach is Lenny Krebs and assistant coaches are Jim Speicher, Kevin Bragg, Sarah Etchison, Karen Gardner, Josh Fitzgerald and Jon Andrews. Not pictured: Reagan Robinson. Photo provided by Desiree Wood.
assistant coaches are David Wayne, Ryan Bricker, Greg Allison, Hal Gunter and Jack Sumpter. Not pictured: Drew Jones. Photo provided by Desiree Wood.
AESTHETICS SPA Syracuse’s newest aesthetics spa, Fresh Aesthetics, cut ribbon on its first location within Adventures in Health, 507 N. Huntington
Aesthetics is the door on the left after entering the building. Fresh Aesthetics will be hosting a soft opening on Thursday,
SWCC hosts ribbon cutting for Fresh Aesthetics
By MARISSA SWEATLAND Staff Writer
“I am obsessed with all things skin and beauty,” Leigh Keirn, founder, RN and nurse injector at Fresh Aesthetics, 507 N. Huntington St., Syracuse.
The spa is located within Adventures in Health.
“I want to educate the community on skincare and aesthetics. We want to provide the services people are looking for,” she said.
The aesthetics spa cut the ribbon on its new location on Tues-
day, Dec. 10, with a handful members of the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce in attendance. Fresh Aesthetics will be hosting a soft opening on Thursday, Dec. 19. Services which will be available are neurotoxins, such as Botox, Dysport and Xeomin, and facials.
“My goal is to provide the community with the services they really want. I know what I love to do and what I want to do, but that does not always translate,” Keirn explained. “So, we will be listening to people as they come in and
see what they are looking for and add services from there.”
Keirn is working to expand the services offered at the aesthetics spa by adding filler, IV therapies, microneedling and weight-loss injections to her roster at the top of the new year.
“I know the weight-loss industry well,” Keirn mentioned. “The sky is the limit for the services people want.”
For about a decade, Keirn had managed weight management clinics, which only deepened her love for all things aesthetics.
Fresh Aesthetics will be open by appointment only Monday to Wednesday; 4-7 p.m. Thursday; noon to 6 p.m. Friday; and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. To contact the aesthetic spa, call (574) 253-0244 or email info@freshfacespa.com.
“We want to grow with the community and what their needs are,” Keirn said.
For more information about Fresh Aesthetics, the services offered or the soft opening, follow the aesthetic spa on Facebook or visit its website, freshfacespa. com.
Nicholas Haynes graduates from University of Georgia
Nicholas John Haynes is one of over 3,200 candidates to be recognized in the University of Georgia’s class of 2024 fall commencement ceremonies held this week. Haynes, Claypool, is a candidate for a Ph.D. in psychology.
“The class of 2024 has demonstrated remarkable resilience, dedication and excellence during their time at the University of Georgia, and we are pleased to be able to celebrate them during fall commencement ceremonies,” said University of Georgia President Jere W. Morehead. “We are confident that these outstanding graduates will continue to inspire, innovate and lead in their communities and beyond. We look forward to seeing all that they will go on to accomplish as proud alumni of the University of Georgia.”
The fall undergraduate commencement ceremony took place at 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 13, followed by the graduate ceremony at 2:30 p.m. Both events were held in Stegeman Coliseum.
May Your Holidays Be Bright!
St. Fresh
Dec. 19.
Pictured from left are chamber ambassador Melissa Longenecker, Remax Partners; Jeanetta Slabaugh, Horizon Bank; Troy Richards, Fresh Aesthetics; Leigh Keirn, Fresh Aesthetics; chamber ambassador, Melody Cusick, Remax Partners; and chamber executive Director Ashley Dillon.
Photo by Marissa Sweatland.
Warsaw High cheerleaders seek donations to go to nationals
Warsaw Community High School’s cheerleading team is set to compete in the game day division at the Universal Cheerleaders Association High School Nationals, which will be held early next year at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla.
The team earned the bid to compete at nationals during the UCA regional competition this fall in Indianapolis. The team also placed fourth in the Timeout division at state this year.
But in order to make it to nationals competition, the cheerleading team needs to raise approximately $15,000 to cover travel and accommodations to compete at nationals.
Warsaw’s cheerleaders serve as role models to more than 150 young girls who participate in their clinics and attend games every year. These younger students look up to the cheerleaders, inspired by their team work and community involvement.
“Supporting the team helps not only the athletes themselves, but also the next generation of students who aspire to follow in their footsteps,” according to a news release.
“Backing the Warsaw cheerleaders is more than just supporting the team; it’s an investment in the pride, growth and spirit of the entire community. When these athletes succeed, they bring recognition to the town, highlighting local talent and fostering a sense of unity. By rally-
POISED FOR NATIONALS The Warsaw Community High School cheerleading team is raising money to be able to attend a national contest.
Pictured in front from left are Macy Moore, Kaytlin Skeans, Audrina Jones, Kaitlyn Fouts, Dakota Betts, Brianna Bencze, Baylor Doty, Addison Sand and Dulce Ramos Gomora. Pictured in back are Coach Kendall Hepler, Kendra Sumpter, Rosalee Alderfer, Adalin Eck, Laicey Snyder, Domino Custer, Reese Finley, Courtney Brower, Taylor Meads, Sadie Finley, Olivia Starkweather, Finley Brown, Harper Escapule, Coach Ashley Nordmann, and Coach Kari Doty. Photo provided by the Warsaw Community High School cheerleading team.
ing behind the Warsaw cheerleaders, community members create a ripple effect of positivity throughout the town, inspiring young athletes, boosting local pride and strengthening the community fabric. Together, let’s help these cheerleaders shine on the national stage; every contribution counts. Please help us give this squad this opportunity to make Warsaw proud.”
To donate or become a sponsor, send an email to astarkweather@ warsawschools.org and/or kdoty@ warsawschools.org.
Marshall Beebe wins awards at S.T.E.M. Symposium
Trine University students have been honored for projects presented at the university’s eighth annual S.T.E.M. Research and Design Symposium, held Thursday, Dec. 5, on the concourse of the MTI Center.
A local student was presented the following awards:
Honorable Mention — Trine Undergraduate Research in Chemical Engineering — Chemical engineering major, Marshall Beebe, Nappanee, “Soot Recovery System.” People’s Choice — Beebe, “Bio-Based Epoxy-Modified Pine Fibers to Reinforce Polylactic Acid and Polyhydroxybutyrate.”
The symposium featured 52 student projects representing multiple academic departments. Projects included departmental freshman and research projects and research experiences for undergraduates.
B ituaries
Carlla Kiser
Carlla Kiser, 75, Warsaw, died Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024, at Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital.
Arrangements are currently pending at Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw.
Verlyn Grace Reinhardt
Verlyn Grace Reinhardt, 71, Waddell, Ariz., formerly of Nappanee, died Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024.
A celebration of life will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 30, at Nappanee Missionary Church, 70417 SR 19, Nappanee. Mishler Funeral Home, Bremen, was in charge of arrangements.
B irths
Iva Maudine Chupp
Galen and Linette (Slabaugh) Chupp, Bremen, are the parents of a daughter, Iva Maudine, born at 4:58 a.m. Dec. 10, 2024. She weighed 7 pounds, 9 ounces.
Micah Wade Zehr
Jose and Elaine (Stutzman) Zehr, Goshen, are the parents of a son, Micah Wade, born at 4:28 a.m. Dec. 12, 2024, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Nappanee. He weighed 8 pounds, 4.6 ounces, and was 19 1/2 inches long.
Micah joins six siblings: Makayla, Jared, Cynthia, Angela, Eric and Joel.
C O unty r ep O rt
Court News
Small Claims
The following small claims have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Warsaw Health System LLC, d/b/a Kosciusko Community Hospital v. Felecia Bedwell, $6,284.09
Client Services KL v. Kim Miller, $812.05
Professional Roofing Solutions and Construction LLC v. Michelle Slabach, $5,510.82
CL Benz Co. LLC v. Floyd Tanner, $7,592.28
State warns companies about robocalls
Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita took new action recently against illegal robocallers, who are trying to scam Hoosiers. He warned four voice service providers that they have been transmitting suspected illegal robocall traffic on its networks on behalf of one or more of its customers.
As a lead member of the 51-member, bipartisan attorney general Anti-Robocall Multistate Litigation Task Force, Rokita and Doug Swetnam, section chief of data privacy and ID theft, and his team have been investigating these providers.
“These annoying and illegal calls not only terrorize Hoosiers but Americans across the nation,” Rokita said. “I said it before and I’ll say it again, if the telecom industry won’t police itself, this unprecedented task force will.”
In the warning letters, the task
force informs the providers it has shared the findings of its investigations with the Federal Communications Commission, which will consider appropriate next steps.
The task force sent warning letters to the following companies:
KWK Communications Inc.: KWK Communications received at least 129 trace-back notices from the industry trace-back group between 2020 and 2022, which included high volumes of calls associated with Internal Revenue Service and Social Security Administration scams, auto warranty scams and utilities scams. In just one month in 2022, KWK allegedly routed more than 20,000 calls with illegally spoofed telephone numbers and more than 8.7 million calls made using invalid caller ID numbers.
Inbound Inc.: Inbound re-
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Civil Collections
The following civil collections have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler presiding: Discover Bank v. Brittany R. Boggs, $6,529.38; v. Noe Castro, $1,367.26; v. Tim K. Housman, $12,146.46; v. Erika Mariage, $8,988.70
Westlake Services LLC, d/b/a Westlake Financial Services v. Terry Brown, $21,606.04
LVNV Funding LLC v. Lucina Clark, $1,595.65; v. Ashlie Manns, $808.61; v. Miguel Rodriguez, $2,662.12; v. Brianna Slone, $5,496.82
American Express National Bank v. Deborah Cowie, a/k/a Deborah L. Cowie, $15,175.76
ceived at least 63 trace-back notices between 2021 and 2022, including many about calls which involved imposter scams. Inbound is also estimated to have allegedly routed more than 28.4 million DirecTV and cable discount scam robocalls in a single month in 2022. The FTC previously issued a cease-and-desist demand to Inbound over these scam calls.
AKA Management Inc.: AKA received at least 129 trace-back notices between 2020 and 2022, including about calls that were government imposter scams and tech-support scams. AKA is also estimated to have allegedly routed about 12.1 million Amazon and Apple imposter robocalls to consumers in a single month in 2022.
CallVox LLC: CallVox received more than 47 trace-back notices between 2020 and 2022 warning of unlawful or suspicious robocalls that it helped move into and through the U.S. telephone network, including thousands of calls to people who were registered on the do not call list and calls placed using illegally spoofed telephone numbers.
The letters warned that if these providers continue to transmit robocalls and violate state and federal laws, the task force may pursue further legal actions against these companies and its owners.
The Anti-Robocall Multistate Litigation Task Force of 51, bipartisan attorneys general investigates and takes legal action against those responsible for routing significant volumes of illegal robocall traffic into and across the U.S.
J.P. Morgan Chase Bank NA v. Chad Dahms, $9,009.21; v. Thea Sainer, $5,632.52
Synchrony Bank v. Marissa Davies, $4,970.58
Midland Credit Management Inc. v. David Diaz, $6,551.81; v. Crystal Malone, $3,725.93
Roots Management, d/b/a Hideaway Hills v. David Eherenman, $4,792.49
Horizon Bank v. Garrett M. Elder, $4,631.23
Synchrony Bank, c/o Lloyd and McDaniel PLC v. Jorge Alicea Garcia, $6,335.75
Jefferson Capital Systems LLC v. Monica Gentry, $746.63; v. Lisa M. Jayne, $2,548.22; v. Joseph M. Lenczewski, $2,777.06; v. Justin Syndram, $6,763.18
Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. Kelli Hamilton, $2,695.81; v. Corey Matthews, $2,974.88; v. Angela Wood, $1,485.78
Merrick Bank v. Heather N. Holbrook, $2,649.66
Gateway Financial Solutions v. Elaina Howard, $12,825.75; v. Ariel Osbun, $11,161.61
Cavalry SPV I LLC v. Steven Lowrance, $1,349.21
SAC Finance Inc. v. Drucilla A. Myers, $12,631.17; v. Jonathan J. Weaver, $18,624.19
Glenbrook Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Mark Cordell Phillips Jr., $13,231.98
Crown Asset Management LLC v. Ryan Price, $912.69 Sandia Resolution Co. LLC v. Dan and Pamela Shively, $7,903.58
Civil Torts
The following civil torts have been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court IV, Judge Christopher D. Kehler presiding: Progressive Paloverde Insurance Co. v. Sherita Roper, $14,338.52 Progressive Insurance Co. v. Kyle Sult, $9,278.09
Mortgage Foreclosures
The following mortgage foreclosure has been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Nationstar Mortgage LLC v. Naomi Gaff, $73,759.60
Evictions
The following evictions have
“Our
been awarded in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding:
547 Clinic LLC v. Phillip J. Fletcher, $5,424.74
Roots Management, d/b/a Fairlane Estates v. Dolores Gonzales, $2,978.10; v. Jared Hurd, $1,792.85
Roots Management, d/b/a Hideaway Hills v. Paul Reese, $1,830.24; v. Phillip Shafer, $4,136.24
Superior Court III
The following fines for infractions have been assessed in Kosciusko Superior Court III, Judge Chad Miner presiding: Speeding — Zachary L. Harkness, Warsaw, $164.50
Speeding, operating with expired plates, disregarding stop sign — Toriana M. Rogers, Etna Green, $214.50
No valid driver’s license Leonardo Gomez Diaz, Warsaw, $164.50; Cristian O. Aleman Zaldivar, Warsaw, $164.50
Authorization for IAC conservation violations — Austin Miller, Ligonier, $164
Failure of occupant to use a safety belt — Steven R. Dunnuck, Syracuse, $25
Harboring a non-immunized dog (no injury) — Justin R. Loftis, Leesburg, $164
Marriage Licenses
The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk of the Court Anne Torpy: Dawson-Leathers
James Allen Dawson II, 37, Bourbon, and Sabrina Danielle Leathers, 45, Pierceton Bowling-Klumpp
Matthew David Bowling, 60, Michigan City, and Debra Lyn Klumpp, 57, Warsaw Bailey-McGowan
Trisha Ann Bailey, 56, Claypool, and Christopher Brent McGowan, 52, Claypool Limbers-McGlynn
Brenda Limbers, 56, Leesburg, and Barry Wayne McGlynn, 60, Leesburg Crawford-Evans
Elizabeth Crawford, 45, York, Pa., and Kyle Preston Evans, 30, Leesburg Zakaria-Ratkay
Paul George Zakaria, 36, Warsaw, and Jessica Elizabeth Ratkay, 35, Warsaw Gunter-Pruitt
David Timothy Gunter, 39, Warsaw, and Courtney Irene Pruitt, 25, Warsaw Peters-Lychagina
Andrew Joseph Peters, 41, Warsaw, and Anna Lychagina, 28, Warsaw
Andujar-Febles
Ismario Perez Andujar, 33, Warsaw, and Ivelissa Vega Febles, 36, Warsaw
families serving your family with professionalism, compassion and care.”
Pierceton and Warsaw Michael and Tracy Wilson
Wheels On Fire present checks to 4 cancer organizations
Text and Photos
By DAVID SLONE Times-Union
Wheels on Fire — Cancer Crusaders presented checks Sunday, Dec. 8, to four cancer organizations totaling $75,000 at Beaver Dam Community Church.
Chris Morehouse, chairperson for Wheels on Fire, said the group raised over $80,000 this year. The money collected each year goes to the Cancer Care Funds of Kosciusko and Fulton counties, and this year it’ll also support two other organizations.
“We’ve also expanded out to give to two new organizations, which is Joe’s Hope in Fulton County, and we’re also giving to Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana,” she said. “We found out about Joe’s Hope this year and it fits our mission. They help local cancer patients with their immediate financial needs, so we wanted to expand out and help them with their mission and what they’re doing with cancer patients. And the same with Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana. They also help local cancer patients in Kosciusko County, and it just fit our mission statement.”
The money was divided based on the organization’s needs in different areas and what each organization can do with the funds given, Morehouse explained. “It’s going to be divided into how they can serve the patients best with what they need to do.”
Wheels on Fire — Cancer Crusaders have been raising money to support cancer organizations for almost 20 years.
Wheels on Fire — Campus Crusaders presented checks to four cancer organizations Sunday at Beaver Dam Community Church.
Shown in front from left are Linda Tucker, Dave Morehouse, Linda Heighway, Jill Lewis, Cris Randall.
In back: Max Cumberland, Judy Cumberland; Chris Morehouse presenting a check to LeeAnn Pollock, donor adviser, Fulton County Cancer Fund; Lisa Tucker and Terry Randall.
“It started out as a Relay for Life team, and then in 2015 they decided that they would kind of keep it in-house because most of the money that was being raised was going to salaries and that kind of stuff. So, we formed a team here and all the money stays local that we raise,” Morehouse said.
Including this year’s total, she said they’ve raised $520,000 over the years.
“It is a lot of money and it helps a lot of patients,” Morehouse agreed.
While Beaver Dam Community Church is the “team,” the Wheels on Fire “family” on a regular basis probably has 15-20 members that work all the fundraisers, food booths, etc. They have fundraisers year-round. “We have put a lot of heart and soul into it, and by the end of those fundraisers we’re pretty tired. But we do it out of love for the cancer patients.”
Morehouse said anyone can help Wheels on Fire and they don’t have to be a member of the Beaver Dam Community Church.
“But if you have a desire to help cancer patients, contact us. We’re more than willing to put you to work to help us with something. And, everyone we know and everyone that is out there knows someone, has a family member, friend, whatever, that has been touched by cancer. So, if there’s an organization that you’re familiar with that helps cancer patients, do what you can to help them, too, if you don’t want to be a part of our team or assist us. Help somewhere,” Morehouse said.
The website for the church can be found at beaverdamcc.org/, which has a link to their Facebook page.
Wheels on Fire has a Facebook page under their name.
Chautauqua-Wawasee’s 2024 season highlights
By MARK KNECHT President Chautauqua-Wawasee
Chautauqua-Wawasee strives to be a beacon of tradition and community spirit, offering a unique blend of programs based on the four Chautauqua pillars. This season was our most ambitious yet with more than 20 programs. In addition to a successful year of programs, we doubled our volunteer base, which is critical for our organization. Here is a recap of the year:
• Purdue Varsity Glee Club provided an energetic repertoire of music performing at Wawasee High School.
• Our Earth Day program highlighted the monarch butterfly.
• Local celebrity, Shanna Zolman Mahaley, Indiana’s 2002 Miss Basketball, returned to overflowing audiences sharing her faith and life story.
• Wawasee Fine Arts Festival featured an increase in children’s participation for onsite art activities.
• Northern Indiana Plein Air Art Association conducted a successful “paint out” and workshop for beginners.
• “Taps Across the Water at Dusk,” our Memorial Day trib-
ute, was heard across Syracuse, Wawasee, Papakeechie and Webster lakes.
• New this year was the Pawasee Dog Parade with many dressed-up owners and pets.
• Ben Franklin was this year’s patriotic speaker. Re-enactor Barry Stevens delighted the crowd with his multi-faceted Franklin impersonations.
• Our “Famous Hoosiers” program featured legendary basketball coach John Wooden. Dr. Richard Gunderman, author of “Hoosier Beacons,” provided an inspiring presentation of Wooden’s career and life lessons.
• “The Survival of the Myaamia People” program featured historian Dr. Cam Shriver, who shared the fight of the Myaamia nation’s removal from their Indiana homelands.
• Our “Digging Through History” programs featured two previous year presenters: Trevor Tipton and Notre Dame Professor Dr. Mark Schurr.
• “Old-Fashioned Christmas” continued to grow with more free fun and tradition as the annual kickoff to the Christmas season. Plans for 2025 are all set. It promises to be our best year yet. Follow us on Facebook or visit CHQW.org to stay in touch.
Correction
In the Wednesday, Dec. 18 edition of ‘the PAPER,’ the winners of the 2024 Christmas Bucks promotion were announced. One of the participating businesses in the promotion was Warsaw’s Village Florist Shop. The owner’s name was incorrectly printed as Rachel Maroset. The owner’s name is actually Rachel Marose.
DONATION TO CANCER SERVICES — Wheels on Fire — Campus Crusaders presented checks to four cancer organizations Sunday at Beaver Dam Community Church. Shown om front from left are Linda Tucker, Dave Morehouse, Linda Heighway, Jill Lewis, Cris Randall. In back: Max Cumberland, Judy Cumberland; Chris Morehouse presenting a check to Eva Vega, client advocate, Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana; Lisa Tucker and Terry Randall.
CANCER CARE FUND RECEIVES DONATION Wheels on Fire — Campus Crusaders presented checks to four cancer organizations Sunday at Beaver Dam Community Church. Shown in front from left are Linda Tucker, Dave Morehouse, Linda Heighway, Jill Lewis, Cris Randall. In back: Max Cumberland, Judy Cumberland; Chris Morehouse presenting a check to Liz Surface, Cancer Care volunteer with Kosciusko County Cancer Care Fund; Lisa Tucker and Terry Randall.
JOE’S KIDS RECEIVES DONATON Wheels on Fire — Campus Crusaders presented checks to four cancer organizations Sunday at Beaver Dam Community Church. Shown in front from left are Linda Tucker, Dave Morehouse, Linda Heighway, Jill Lewis, Cris Randall. In back: Max Cumberland, Judy Cumberland; Chris Morehouse presenting a check to Dustin Shidler, president, Joe’s Hope, and Linda Lowry; Lisa Tucker and Terry Randall.
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Bowen Health creates mental health response program in Whitley County
Bowen Health has created a mental health response program alongside Whitley County courts and law enforcement that, so far, has 100% success in getting people into treatment and keeping them out of the court system.
Recognizing The Need
About two years ago, Whitley County officials were trying to sort out a recurring problem. Police and the court system were spending valuable time and money on people who were obviously struggling, in need of help and not breaking any laws.
“We had several cases of law enforcement being called out to homes where the youth was clearly in crisis,” remembered Whitley County Deputy Prosecutor Lindsey Grossnickel. “Parents wouldn’t know what to do and felt that they could not control the youth, but we were not in a position to remove them.”
In cases when there was no legal reason for police to intervene, the situation was left unaddressed until the next time and the next. The issues weren’t solving themselves and it was only a matter of time, in most cases, that trouble would follow.
Grossnickel, along with Whitley County Assistant Chief of Probation Jen Christie, co-chair Whitley County’s Juvenile Detention Aversion Initiative, an effort to keep kids out of trouble and out of the court system. They both felt there
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had to be a better way and were willing to put the agency’s funding behind it, especially when it came to children, who might be caught up in the legal system.
Building The Program
The discussions led to an idea: Have a mental health provider respond to certain crisis situations alongside law enforcement to get a jump on addressing root causes of those circumstances before they could deteriorate further.
“Initially, it was a pipe dream because of cost, availability, willingness…,” said Grossnickel. “I brought the idea to Mista, and she immediately started working on it and made it a reality.”
Mista Lauber, Bowen Health executive director for northeast Indiana, and her staff started to figure out how they could create a system providing life-saving care for these situations, which were usually unresolved. They got busy creating staffing plans, protocols and guidelines: When should the team be called? When shouldn’t they be called? Who is responsible for what?
Working with Whitley County officials, they devised the system which is now in operation.
How It Works
“When law enforcement arrives at a scene and there’s nothing they can do legally because it’s more of a mental health issue, they will call us,” explained Lauber. “We will respond 24/7/365. Law enforce-
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“The goal is to stabilize the situation right away when we get there. The crisis teams are trained to stabilize and diffuse the situation. Before they leave, they work with family members to make a follow-up plan and a safety plan moving forward.”
Collaboration Equals Success
Once the details of the JDAI system were worked out, everyone involved had to be trained on how the program worked. Several law enforcement agencies, the prosecutor’s office, probation department, and dispatch operators had to know their roles or the system would not function. Beginning in January 2023, the program moved into reality thanks to a shared desire to improve results for those struggling.
“Whitley County is lucky to have great community partnerships,” said Grossnickel. “Law enforcement was excited when we brought this idea to them. We all understand that we need tools. If we can have more tools for better outcomes, it’s a win-win.”
Collaborators helping to make this effort a reality include Whitley County law enforcement (Churubusco, South Whitley, and Columbia City police, Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, and Indiana State Police), dispatch,
prosecutors, probation, Bowen Health and Community Corrections.
Results
Supported by the enthusiastic participation of these agencies, Bowen Health crisis teams have responded to dozens of calls since early 2023 and have started to change lives.
“One hundred percent have come back for services, said Lauber. “That drastically lowers the number of times they’re calling law enforcement for the same thing over and over again.”
Instead of becoming wards of “the system,” these people are now on a path to better health and the chance to live their best lives.
The court system is seeing similar results.
“Since the program has gone live, we have not had a youth placed on probation after a crisis call has been made,” said Grossnickel. “I have only heard positive comments. Other communities want to duplicate this program because the need is everywhere.”
Noting the program’s success with youth, Community Corrections is now providing the funding to support calls for adults, too.
“Bowen Health is always looking to connect with individuals who need our help but who may not seek it out,” said its vice president of intensive services, Tess Ottenweller. “This is early intervention that offers a window of opportunity to manage immediate symptoms, build resilience, and shape a healthier future.”
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Year-end income tax deduction options
By MARK EVANS Plant and Soil Science Extension Educator
Purdue Extension, Elkhart County
Ho! Ho! Ho! Tis the season for giving and thinking to finalize tax considerations when reflecting on the past calendar year. You may receive a return of a 50% direct credit to your tax bill when donating up to $200 per individual and $400 for couples filing jointly, given to an Indiana-funded university.
Because Purdue Extension is part of a state-funded university, one can donate to the local Extension Office and that would qualify. Therefore, a $100 contribution to the Purdue Extension-Elkhart County program would cost one only $50.
While it might seem I have had too much eggnog, this giving option is for real. The discussion for this column focuses on Elkhart County; these options would most likely be available for any Indiana county if one is reading
this with interests from outside of Elkhart County.
One can also specify in many cases how the money would be used (i.e. 4-H youth development, agriculture, natural resources, or health and human science educational programming areas or specific equipment, etc. for teaching).
One could even specify the gift be used for a specific educational program or topic (i.e. 4-H STEAM, advanced Master Gardener workshop, nutrition education, workforce development workshop, etc.). Some limitations do exist. For example, funds donated for awards or scholarships would not be eligible for the additional direct state tax deduction.
Give the extension office a call and ask about this excellent way you can support community programs for minimal cost to your pocket due to the additional state tax credit. Other options focus on income tax deductions rather than a direct credit.
Purdue Extension Educator, Jim Luzar, stated, “Writing a
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check may not always be the best bang for the buck. Only about 11% of taxpayers itemize deductions according to tax data. Most farms will not be itemizing and will take the standard deduction.”
The threshold for a standard deduction is $24,000 and a $5,000 check would fall within the standard deduction. However, a gift of $5,000 worth of grain or an animal donation would not fall under the standard deduction umbrella.
Donating the $5,000 in the form of a commodity would give the farm a $2,000 federal tax deduction thereby allowing the farm to gift a total of $5,000 for only a cost of $3,000 to the farm. Before donating a commodity, please consult with your tax practitioner and talk with the intended recipient to determine the specific tax benefits of your situation and assure a seamless plan.
Another example is that local extension positions may be endowed with a family name or business for example. There are also family scholarships that may be set up to specifically benefit a county or even multiple counties.
Land or other assets may also be willed or donated to sponsor larger gifts as well. This can be done through the Purdue Foundation and also can be done over time and there is no percentage fee taken out of the gift like there are at many foundations.
Another possibility for setting up an endowed instrument or contributing to an existing endowment is to utilize “required minimum distributions” from IRA’s or other retirement funds that ultimately would otherwise be taxed. These RMD and the associated capital gains can be
donated, and
To discuss a giving option, contact your local Extension office. In
Elkhart County, visit its website at extension.purdue.edu/elkhart or you can contact the local office by calling (574) 533-0554 for more information regarding this week’s column topic.
Bowen Health names new Allen County managers
Bowen Health has named four current employees to new management positions in Allen County.
Three will serve as practice administrators, responsible for the oversight of employees and operations at the Bowen Health site. The director of community engagement will serve as a county-wide ambassador for the organization, identifying community partners and under-served populations while developing initiatives to improve their access to health care.
April Fullenkamp, practice administrator, Allen County, Goshen Road, has been working with Bowen Health for more than a decade. Fullenkamp brings experience in direct service and management to this position. She is an IU graduate and holds an MBA from Huntington University.
“April has proven her ability to build strong teams, and she will ensure we continue to consistently deliver exceptional results and exceed expectations for our deserving patients,” said Allen County Executive Director Kylie Riecken. “She knows the value of providing care for a patient’s mind and body in a single visit, regardless of their ability to pay and the positive effect it’s having on our community.”
Antionette Johnson, practice administrator, Allen County, Rudisill Boulevard, is a graduate of IPFW. Johnson brings more than 20 years of experience in Allen County social support agen-
cies, including Bowen Health and its Rudisill Boulevard location.
“Antionette has overseen daily operations since we opened this location in 2021 and has built a strong, caring team,” said Riecken. “She understands the needs of our patients. I know she will continue to successfully run that office and to make a difference.”
Tim Williams, practice administrator, Bowen Health Recovery Center, has been working with Bowen Health since 2019. He is a graduate and MBA recipient from Grace College.
“Tim has vast knowledge of our Recovery Center operations and is an integral part of our team in Allen County,” said Riecken. “He will ensure that the experience a new patient has when they first ask for help is caring and compassionate and that the focus remains on them as they continue their successful journey through recovery.”
Jayme Yates, director of community engagement for Allen County, is a Ball State graduate with degrees in marketing, telecommunications and Spanish, and an MBA from the University of Southern Indiana. Yates has served Bowen Health through direct service and various management roles.
“Jayme has spent 12 years already building strong relationships in the community and truly has a heart for the people we serve,” said Riecken. “This new role will allow her time to build and nurture our relationships with those in Allen County.”
