Months, even years spent in discussions came to a reality Tuesday morning as workers with Precise Pile Driving Inc., Fort Recovery, Ohio, moved in equipment and began work on improvements to the Syracuse Lake Control Structure, or Syracuse Dam.

A workshop explaining pollinators was held Monday evening, June 22, at the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation Ruddell Pavilion, hosted by WACF, The Watershed Foundation and other partners. Approximately 45 people attended to hear a presentation by Brad Clayton, Clayton Garden Center, who is a watershed conservationist for TWF with a bachelor’s degree in plant and soil science — crop science.

The Board of Directors for the Kosciusko County Solid Waste Management District is facing some hurdles with the recycling depot’s budget for 2021.

The 91st Indiana FFA State Convention was held virtually June 16-19.

Warsaw Community High School senior Ryan Harris recently won a car for perfect attendance.

A Facebook fundraiser has been recently established for a newborn baby whose family lives in Milford.

If you haven’t looked or ordered your 2020 Wawasee Flotilla Apparel, you have until 11:59 p.m. Sunday, June 21 to do so.

This weeks Animal Welfare Leagues “Pets of the Week” feature Gwenivere the dog, and Callie the cat! 

An open house will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Friday, June 26, for Jim Evans and Joy Goshert, retiring administrators from the Wawasee Community School Corporation. It will be held at the Wawasee High School cafeteria.

Fresh perishable items and dry goods will be offered free of charge at three local areas next week. All items will be pre-boxed and pre-bagged. The events are first come, first serve for up to 400 households while supplies last for those in need of food assistance.

WARSAW — Democrats in Kosciusko County have another candidate for the general election. Paul Morales signed paperwork Wednesday, June 17, to run for one of three at-large seats on Kosciusko County Council. He’s the third Democrat to announce campaigns for county-level seats in recent weeks. He and Noemi Ponce, who announced her campaign a day …read more.

The Milford town marshal recently knocked one big item off his bucket list — publishing his first book. “A Fairy’s Tale,” published under D. A. Kreider, is the first book in a trilogy Derek Kreider has planned.

The Claypool Town Council approved next steps for the building of a home on a vacant Section Street lot during a meeting on Tuesday, June 16.

Warsaw Community High School graduate and former teacher Brian Scott recently had a book published by Prufrock Press. 

“Go Help Feed,” a ministry of Gospel Outreach USA, will be selling Nelson’s Chicken from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 24, to benefit The Salvation Army.

The City of Warsaw Parks & Recreation Board meeting began Tuesday, June 16, with board members expressing their feelings of loss over the recent passing of Board Member Bill Baldwin.

Between noon Friday, June 12, and noon Monday, June 15, the Kosciusko County Health Department received a total of 30 new COVID-19 cases.

The re-entry plan for the upcoming school year was briefly discussed at the Tippecanoe Valley School Board meeting held Monday night, June 15.

Warsaw Community Schools and the Warsaw Community Education Association are working together in conjunction with the Indiana Department of Education, the Governor’s office, local health department, Indiana High School Athletic Association, and multiple other community leaders to develop a plan for a safe physical return to school for students and employees.

WINONA LAKE – My Team Triumph has sign-ups open for its Firecracker 5K, set for July 4 at Winona Lake Park.

The Watershed Foundation will be hosting several upcoming events to support healthy lakes.

Rep. Jim Banks, Indiana, member of the House Education and Labor Committee; and Rep. Tom Tiffany, Wisconsin, introduced a piece of legislation today that would halt a school’s federal funding if they refuse to reopen for in-person learning in the fall. The legislation’s title is “Reopen Our Schools Act.”

Topics at the Warsaw Community Schools Board of School Trustees meeting revolved around the COVID-19 pandemic as those present talked about cleaning buildings, keeping students safe and rewarding employees who have put themselves on the front lines.

Tippecanoe Township Advisory Board approved further discussed properties where a second fire station could be built and the purchase of fire equipment at its Wednesday, June 10, meeting.

Between noon Wednesday, June 10, and noon Thursday, June 11, the Kosciusko County Health Department reported 10 new cases of COVID-19. This brings the county’s number of positive cases to 283, with two deaths.

Wawasee High School senior Evan Coblentz is one of 19 FFA members from across the state who are preparing to interview for the opportunity to serve as an Indiana FFA State Officer in the coming year.

Each year apparel featuring the Wawasee Flotilla Committee has various apparel items available to be purchased promoting that year’s event. This year is no different, but the distribution has changed.

The Grace College School of Education is working to meet the increasing demands of special education.

Dr. Andrew Simkins will deliver the message during the 10:30 a.m. worship service Sunday, June 14, at the Church of the Good Shepherd, 708 College Ave., Winona Lake.

Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce’s June Member Of The Month is The Sleepy Owl Supper Club. Open seven days a week, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, The Sleepy Owl is located at 11374 SR 13, Syracuse. This iconic restaurant has been locally owned by the Larson family for 11 years.

Fresh perishable items and dry goods will be offered free of charge. All items will be pre-boxed and pre-bagged. First come, first served, for up to 400 households, while supplies last, for those in need of food assistance. One per household.

Stage 4 of Governor Eric Holcomb’s “Back on Track Indiana” plan will go into effect beginning Friday, June 12 – two days earlier than originally scheduled.

Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation recently approved several loans awarded through its small business relief fund, which was established to support job retention and business recovery during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Grace College student Obadiah Clemans earned his bachelor’s degree this year and is now working on his master’s.

The Etna Green Town Council discussed language within the proposed Etna Township fire contract during a meeting on Tuesday, June 9.

Two presentations were given at the in-person meeting of the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce Monday, June 8, at the North Webster Community Center. Shelby Bolt received a $500 scholarship she earned from the chamber while the chamber was given a $500 rebate by The Papers Inc. from the ad sales for its community guide.

By Deb Patterson InkFreeNews SYRACUSE — The goal is to open the CR 29 jughandle ramp with US 6, north of Syracuse on Friday, June 12, and the intersection of SR 13/CR 33 with US 6 to close on or after Friday. Crews with Phend & Brown Inc., Milford, have been working on creating an …read more.

In a packed two-hour meeting Monday, June 8, Syracuse Parks and Recreation board members were brought up to speed on department projects, COVID-19 responses and finances after a two-month break.

WARSAW – Bowling alleys in Kosciusko County are anticipating next week’s phase to open its doors to the public again.

News Release SYRACUSE — The Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation announces the results from the first year of their landmark Wawasee Inlets Nutrient Study. This study is the first of its kind for the Wawasee Watershed and the data from the three year scientific effort will yield a comprehensive analysis of nutrient and sediment loads. The …read more.

The Tippecanoe-Chapman Lakes Regional Sewer District will be back meeting in North Webster.

Warsaw Community Schools and Blosser’s Photography partnered together to take pictures of Warsaw Community High School’s Class of 2020 graduates in their caps and gowns.

In a year already turned upside down by COVID-19, three Wawasee High School graduates who will be entering the military were still able to have a graduation ceremony, even if not with their peers in July.

The Silver Lake Lions Club Bingo event originally scheduled for Saturday, June 6, has been cancelled until further notice.

The Claypool Town Council held an administrative meeting this week to discuss a Section Street property and the usage of K21 Health Foundation’s financial pledge to the town.

Eight students in the Warsaw Area Career Center recently received their Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification.

Claypool Elementary School held a virtual award program on May 20 to recognize sixth-grade student achievements.

WARSAW – Golf courses across the state are open, ready to host the public in our socially distant world.

LIGONIER – The 2020 West Noble Primary Color Run is set for Saturday, June 27.

The emergency order restricting motorized watercraft to idle speed on the Barbee chain of lakes in Kosciusko County has been lifted. Normal boating operations may resume.

Do you know of a youth or an individual wanting to start a small business? Lawn service, baby-sitting, tutoring, pet sitter, dog walker, website, or washing cars are a few examples of businesses one can do, but are not limited to. Matthews’ Painting wants to help people pursue their dreams.

Bingo at the Silver Lake Lions Club will resume Saturday, June 6.

By Ray Balogh InkFreeNews WARSAW — Debbie Messenger acknowledges she can’t fix her counseling clients. But she knows she can introduce them to the one who can. Messenger was born in Wisconsin and spent her “formative years” in Mexico as a missionary kid. “It was a transient lifestyle,” she said. “I was from everywhere and …read more.

Warsaw Community Schools recently announced three important updates for the Class of 2020 and their families regarding tickets for graduation, senior appreciation and senior photos. 

SYRACUSE – The 26th annual Wawasee Warrior Open golf outing is set for July 6 at Maxwelton Golf Club.

Wawasee High School held a virtual Academic Hall of Fame induction program Monday evening, June 1. A total of 30 students were inducted.

Amidst many local summer events postponing or canceling due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Etna Green’s annual Fourth of July parade plans are still marching on. The owners of Etna Elevator brought the parade back in 2019 after years of the town not having an annual parade.

Article and photos by Ray Balogh InkFreeNews NORTH WEBSTER — Dateline: North Webster Elementary School. The battle engaged at 4 p.m. Thursday, May 28. A sizable convoy of assault vehicles, disguised as family sedans, SUVs and pickup trucks, rolled along the school’s front drive. Giggling young combatants fired their weapons of choice — squirt guns …read more.

The 2020 Wawasee FFA Awards Banquet was held via a YouTube premiere Friday, May 29, and can still be viewed at www.youtube.com/watch?v=6L3JYNms_s8.

The Food Bank of Northern Indiana, in cooperation with The Salvation Army of Kosciusko County, will distribute food boxes, meat and dairy to families in need from 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday, June 3, at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds, 1400 E. Smith St., Warsaw.

SYRACUSE – The 2020 Flotilla Road Race will be run virtually this year from July 4-5 along its traditional route.

The Kosciusko County Health Department reported a second COVID-19 death in the county on Monday, June 1, and saw another substantial jump in the number of cases in recent days.

Camp Alexander Mack, a Christian camp and conference center, will begin the major construction of an $85,000 challenge course on its property north of Camp Mack Road in Milford, made possible by a grant from the K21 Health Foundation, which serves Kosciusko County. Executive Director Gene Hollenberg made the announcement to supporters of the 95-year old camp operated by the Church of the Brethren in Indiana.

Ivy Tech Community College, including its Fort Wayne and Warsaw locations, has announced it is offering free classes and training opportunities for 10,000 participants.

SYRACUSE – Wawasee’s girls basketball camp will take place July 20-23 at Wawasee High School.

A second protest supporting the Black Lives Matter movement will happen from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 3, outside of the Kosciusko County Courthouse.

WARSAW – Indiana Special Olympics is hosting a virtual experience this summer to replace the originally planned Summer Games.

An open house honoring Doug Buller for his 32 years of service at Warsaw Christian School will be held from 1-3 p.m. Sunday, June 14.

News Release SYRACUSE — The Wawasee Property Owners Association announces that its annual fireworks display celebrating the USA’s Independence will launch on Saturday, July 4, from the center of beautiful Lake Wawasee. The on-water event uses 10 25-foot-long barges spread across the lake to launch the fireworks on Lake Wawasee. Few Independence Day shows can boast …read more.

A community cruise through to honor the Wawasee High School senior class of 2020 has been scheduled from 6-6:30 p.m. Friday, June 5.

Anybody, including graduates, is encouraged to participate in the cruise through by decorating their vehicle. Attendees are asked to stay in their vehicles and practice social distancing.

As of noon Friday, May 29, the Kosciusko County Health Department reported 15 new cases of COVID-19. This brings the county’s number of total positive cases to 120.

This year’s prom at Wawasee High School was cancelled due to COVID-19, but a few seniors of the class of 2020 have set up a GoFundMe account to raise funds to still have a prom this summer.

In 2015, Tobe Forshtay founded Raise the Dough, Inc. to financially help one couple adopt a child. Since then the ministry has blossomed into a major local benefactor with a vision of “saying yes” to 100 families by the end of 2024.

The Summer Food Service Program for Children was created to serve nutritious meals to children when the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Program meals are not available.

As of noon Wednesday, May 27, the Kosciusko County Health Department reported five new cases of COVID-19. This brings the county’s number of total positive cases to 99.

WINONA LAKE – The 27th annual Optimist Triathlon will be a virtual event beginning in late June.

The county council at large election will see three incumbents and one newcomer in the race to make the Republican ballot for the primary. Only three of those running can receive the nomination. Those vying for the nominations are Kimberly Cates, Syracuse, incumbent; Kathleen Groninger, Mentone; Sue Ann Mitchell, Warsaw, incumbent; and Joni L. Truex, Warsaw, incumbent. Each candidate was asked to give a short biography and answer two questions.

Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce is launching Last Friday digitally in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. To join in the fun, visit the chamber’s Facebook page or Instagram or stop by the Syracuse Strong (Indiana) public Facebook group.

The Building Trades program of the Warsaw Area Career Center will be hosting an open house from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 27.

Memorial Day celebrations were limited this year due to COVID-19 and current social distancing restrictions, but each of the local American Legion posts met at area cemeteries to remember those who have served their country. While there were no parades held this year in Milford, North Webster or Syracuse, the community still gathered at each of the area cemeteries to remember and honor those who have died Monday, May 25.

By Deb Patterson InkFreeNews MILFORD — A favorite food during the annual Milford Fest has always been the rib-eye steak sandwiches served by the Milford Fire Department. Even though Milford Fest was cancelled, the event favorite is still a possibility. Milford Firefighters started around 10 a.m. this morning, Sunday, May 24, getting the grills fired …read more.

Grace College mathematics Professor Dr. Ryan Johnson is creating data visualizations of COVID-19 cases in Kosciusko County and other Midwestern localities.

Despite Milford Fest being cancelled, the Milford Fest Committee was still able to bring some fun and excitement to the streets of Milford during Memorial Day weekend.

State Rep. Dave Wolkins recently issued a statement on remembering and honoring fallen service members.

People gathered on both sides of Main Street in Mentone Friday night, May 22, to cheer for Tippecanoe Valley High School seniors during their graduation parade.

Dr. Tom Edington, superintendent of Wawasee Community School Corporation has sent out the following letter to the community:

WARSAW — The DNR has placed idle speed restrictions on watercraft on Oswego Lake in Kosciusko County and Knapp Lake in Noble County.

The following is a list of Memorial Day weekend events happening in Kosciusko County, as well as a list of events that will not occur this year due to COVID-19 restrictions:

Stage 3 of Governor Eric Holcomb’s “Back on Track Indiana” plan started today, May 22. With the exception of three counties, all of Indiana is entering this stage.

Residents of Kosciusko County may once again begin bringing hazardous household chemical for drop-off at KC Recycling.

With an unexpected challenging year for Kosciusko County students, the Kosciusko Board of Realtors is still pleased to be able to announce 2020 scholarship winners. Evan Coblentz, Olivia Long, and Jack Stewart are this year’s winners.

Warsaw Community Schools recently announced that online registration is now open for all students for the 2020-21 school year.

The retirement party for former Kosciusko County Community Foundation CEO Suzie Light has been rescheduled to Aug. 18 at the Winona Heritage Room.

Barbee Lakes residents now have greater access to books through the recent installment of a Little Free Library in the area.

Governor Eric Holcomb announced on Thursday, May 21, that movie theaters and playgrounds, which had been projected to open in stage 3, will remain closed.

A full day of activities, food and rides normally takes place Memorial Day weekend at Milford Fest.

The Department of Natural Resources has placed an idle speed restriction on watercraft on Lake Tippecanoe and James (Little Tippecanoe) Lake.

Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation continues to work to provide opportunities, particularly for entrepreneurs and small businesses. For entrepreneurs looking to get started or those already with small businesses, the Circuit entrepreneur meet up offers connections, resources and opportunities all in one place. While entrepreneurship can sound quite exciting, these meet ups help to show those aspiring to start small businesses what it is like as well as provide them with information to assist them.

Blosser’s Photography will be taking professional pictures of all of Warsaw Community High School’s Class of 2020 graduates in their caps and gowns from 1 to 4 p.m. Friday, June 5.

Dixie Sternwheeler Paddleboat Inc. board of directors made a “sad but necessary decision” Monday evening, May 18.