After being asked to leave the Syracuse Community Center in September, Rock Solid Teen Center has found a new home. It moved into Wawasee High School and programming began in the first part of November. “We kind of had to start as quickly as we ended,” said Pastor Mark Eastway, Rock Solid Teen Center board …read more.

WARSAW — When donating to Goodwill, one does not always think about where those items are going. However, a quick stop inside the career center at the opposite end of the store will reveal what those donations can do. According to Warsaw Goodwill Career Center Manager Lauren Byers, 80 percent of the donations brought to the …read more.

By CONNOR O’SHAUGHNESSY Marketing Communications Coordinator, Big Brothers Big Sisters Northeast Indiana FORT WAYNE — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana awarded the Diane Humphrey Award to Sherri Milton, Warsaw, during the Eighth Annual Women’s Champagne Brunch at the Grand Wayne Convention Center to benefit the organization and its mission to help local children …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Lt. Governor Sue Ellspermann announced yesterday, Monday, Dec. 7, that she has joined the Office of Community and Rural Affairs to recognize more than 100 rural communities who partnered with the agency throughout 2015 to cooperatively shape and execute their vision for local community and economic development opportunities. “It is important to …read more.

NEW BUFFALO, Mich. — The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians’ Four Winds Casinos are pleased to announce a concert by The Band Perry at Four Winds New Buffalo’s Silver Creek Event Center at 9 p.m. Friday, April 15. Hotel and dinner packages will also be available on the night of the concert. Tickets can be purchased beginning at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 11. Eastern exclusively through the Ticketmaster Web site, or by calling (800) 745-3000. Ticket prices for the concert start at $75 plus applicable fees.

NORTH WEBSTER — After classmates signed the photos, they huddled together to laugh and cry about fond memories with Kaplanis and Singer. Most stories included typical high school activities: Taco Bell before sports, late nights with good friends and a lot of songs that were the acting soundtrack to pre-college life.

INDIANAPOLIS — Curtis T. Hill Jr. has officially announced he is seeking the Republican nomination for Attorney General of the State of Indiana at the GOP State Convention in June, 2016. Hill announced that support for his candidacy has been overwhelming. He has been endorsed by more than 40 Indiana county prosecutors and numerous police and law …read more.

MIDDLESBROUGH, U.K. — Get ready to feel all the feels, because this heartwarming moment between a mall Santa and a little girl with a hearing impairment is basically the best thing to ever happen.

FORT WAYNE — The two victims who died after a car crash early Sunday morning in Fort Wayne are former Wawasee High School students and residents of the Syracuse/North Webster area. The Allen County Coroner’s Office released the names around 11 a.m. today, Dec. 8. The driver has been identified as Dakota G. Singer, 22, …read more.

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH — A Utah family witnessed an early Christmas miracle when they managed to bring a kitten back to life after finding him frozen in the snow.

KOSCIUSKO — The Salvation Army Choice Pantry is holding the second annual “Hundred Ham Challenge” to collect at least 100 canned hams for the Christmas season to give to families in need in addition to the food given in the pantry. “Many families without children and seniors come into our choice pantry during the holidays …read more.

By KEN LOCKE Community Ministries Coordinator, The Salvation Army WARSAW — The Friday Night Challenge continues for The Salvation Army as Team Purdue will face off against Team IU at Wal-Mart in Warsaw from 5-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, at both doors. Last Friday, Dec. 4, the Star Wars challenge resulted in the Empire raising $113.25 …read more.

INDIANA — Following Catholic Charities’ decision to settle Syrian refugees in the state of Indiana, Governor Mike Pence’s spokesman Matt Lloyd issued the following statement: “The governor holds Catholic Charities in the highest regard but respectfully disagrees with their decision to place a Syrian refugee family in Indiana at this time. “Prior to the terrorist …read more.

By SGT. TONY SLOCUM Public Information Officer, Indiana State Police District 16-Peru STUART, FLA — A cold cas murder investigation by Indiana State Police Detective 1st. Sgt. Bob Burgess and Detective Josh Maller resulted in the arrest of William Stinemetz, 62, Palm City, Fla. The detectives served Stinemetz with a Fulton Circuit Court arrest warrant …read more.

ELKHART — Officers from the Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department will be participating in this year’s Shop with a Sheriff event that will kickoff at approximately 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 9.

WARSAW — Fred J. Landolt III, 26, 733 E. Fort Wayne St., Warsaw, was arrested Monday afternoon, Dec. 7, on initial charges of burglary and theft. The arrests stem from a Dec. 2 burglary at a residence in Warsaw. Warsaw Police were called on Dec. 2 by the homeowner who reported he had received a …read more.

KOSCIUSKO — NIPSCO is warning customers of a rise in telephone scams, which began over the weekend and has continued into Monday. Reports state, the scammers are contacting businesses and residential customers from various 800 numbers claiming to be NIPSCO employees and informing them of a delinquent bill. They tell customers that immediate payment is …read more.

WARSAW — The beginning of some year-end business took place Monday evening, Dec. 7, at the Warsaw Common Council meeting, with council appointments to various boards and commissions. Additional appointments, made by the mayor, will be announced at the Dec. 21 meeting. “You have six appointments to make,” Warsaw Mayor Joe Thallemer told council members. …read more.

MENTONE — During a relatively brief regular meeting Monday evening, Dec. 7, the Mentone Town Council and Mentone Town Marshal Jim Eads set a date to sit down together and discuss the interviewing process for a new deputy marshal. The discussion is set for 7 p.m. this Thursday, Dec. 10, during which time the council and …read more.

INDIANA — Kosciusko County will be among other counties in the state raising the official bicentennial flag at noon Friday. A brief ceremony will take place on the southeast corner of the courthouse lawn. Activities are slated to kick off this week to celebrate the state’s bicentennial and the Association of Indiana Counties is encouraging …read more.

WARSAW — The Warsaw Community High School Band will present “The Sounds of the Season” at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 10, in the WCHS Performing Arts Center. The concert will feature the WCHS Flute Choir, Clarinet Choir, Saxophone Ensemble, Brass Quintet, Low Brass Ensemble, Jazz Band, Percussion Ensemble and combined Concert Bands performing a variety …read more.

By LINDSAY JANCEK Communications Director MISHAWAKA — Congresswoman Jackie Walorski reminded constituents that a member of her staff will hold office hours to assist with casework and official business. The Rochester district office, 709 Main St., Rochester, is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday. Stop by or call (574) 223-4373 to …read more.

MILFORD — No major injuries occurred following a rollover accident that occurred on East CR 1300N, Milford, Friday, Dec. 4. The accident occurred at 5:32 p.m. According to police reports, Derick A. Herendeen, 46, East 1300N, Milford, was eastbound on CR 1300, driving down the center of the road. Meanwhile, another vehicle was westbound on the same …read more.

PRAIRIE TOWNSHIP — Virginia Baker, a member of the Prairie Township Board, has submitted her resignation effective Dec. 31. Declarations of candidacy will be taken until Dec. 27, to fill the remainder of her unexpired term. The term would end Dec. 31, 2018.

WARSAW — There are over 23 square miles of water and 100 lakes in Kosciusko County and the Center for Lakes and Streams hopes to take care of all that water with programs run by sponsorships.

KOSCIUSKO — Though the holiday season is typically filled with good will and gifts, area law enforcement agencies are warning of those with colder intentions targeting the unsuspecting this holiday season. According to First Sgt. Chad Hill, the Kosciusko County 911 Center has received numerous calls today reporting a potential scam. According to callers, these …read more.

WARSAW — The final meeting of the year was held at noon today, Monday, Dec. 7, for the Warsaw Redevelopment Commission. “We’ve had a great year, and got an awful lot done. I’m proud of the work we’ve had done,” stated Rick Snodgrass, commission vice president. Jeremy Skinner, city planner noted the amount of work …read more.

ELKHART — Get The Led Out, the “American Led Zeppelin”, will be performing at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 26 at the Lerner Theatre, 410 S. Main St. in Elkhart, as part of its nationwide tour. During this epic show, the phenomenal tribute band will recreate the recorded music of Led Zeppelin with the studio overdubs that the “mighty Zep” was never able to recreate on the concert stage themselves. When one hears three guitars on the album, Get The Led Out delivers three guitars on stage. Get The Led Out brings what the audience wants a high energy, Zeppelin concert with an honest heart-thumping intensity.

INDIANAPOLIS — Eighty percent of Indiana employers have been impacted by prescription drug misuse and abuse, including opioid painkillers, in their workplaces, according to a survey released today by the National Safety Council and the Indiana Attorney General’s Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention Task Force. The survey, the first of its kind in the nation, found nearly …read more.

WARSAW — KGP Logistics is as a woman-owned business offering a unique combination of supply chain, distribution and integrated services to the telecommunications industry. The company’s Warsaw facilities, which have been in operation since its acquisition of EMBARQ Logistics in 2009, will open its second location in January 2016, in the former PolyOne building on SR 15 N.

By RENATA ROBINSON Executive Director, Manchester Main Street NORTH MANCHESTER — Manchester Main Street extends a heartfelt thank you to all the tremendous community support that helped make Saturday’s 4th annual Manchester Main Street “Light Up The Town” Holiday Gala a huge success. Over 150 guests attended the Dec. 5 sold out progressive dinner event …read more.

MIDDLEBURY — Carbon monoxide poisoning has sent some workers from Forest River RV plant in Middlebury early this morning, Monday, Dec. 7. Emergency crews were called around  7 a.m. to the plant were at least five were taken by ambulance to the hospital with around a dozen taken by bus. Middlebury Fire Chief Jeff Wogman …read more.

WARSAW — While attending college can bring success, it can also be a financial struggle. With this in mind, Matt Gull and Tim Keyes of the Ivy Tech, Warsaw, campus, in conjunction with the Ivy Tech Foundation, are asking the community to step up and donate toward students’ futures. The two have set up a …read more.

WARSAW — Indiana Business Opportunity Partners held a charity craft event and quarter auction for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana in Warsaw Nov. 14, at the Baker Youth Club. The iBOP group was able to make a $3,272 donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters and wish to thank those that supported the event.

SYRACUSE — Any support from others in any way, whether spoken, unspoken, a smile, a note card, a text or a simply a lantern lit in memory of the child gone before, makes a huge statement of compassion and caring for those who often don’t know why or how to cope, particularly during the holidays.

WARSAW — Derrick Gasaway, 24, 4335 E. CR 725S, Warsaw, has been arrested for neglect of a dependent after allegedly purchasing and using drugs while his son was with him. According to court documents, a female drove Gasaway and his son to South Bend, where Gasaway met with another female subject. Upon returning to Warsaw, Gasaway reportedly used …read more.

WARSAW — Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” is on stage at the Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts in Warsaw for the next two weekends. While the plot is well known, it has been updated. It’s different. There are surprises.

By DARLA MCCAMMON Executive Director, Animal Welfare League WARSAW — My second favorite Christmas themed painting I have chosen is “The Census at Bethlehem” by Pieter Bruegel the Elder. This is an oil-on-panel work by Bruegel the Elder that was painted in 1566. This work is now on exhibit at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts …read more.

WARSAW — At 2:52 a.m. Friday, Dec. 4, Warsaw Police Department, Lutheran EMS and Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory responded to an accident located on North Detroit Street off of Lake City Highway near Jalynn Street, Warsaw. Upon arrival, police discovered an accident had occurred between a Jeep SUV, driven by Amy C. Eskridge, 30, South Smith …read more.

[weaver_youtube G_2yLR24AL0 rel=0] WINONA LAKE — Numerous area families visited Winona Lake yesterday, Saturday, Dec. 5, to celebrate the season with the Winona Lake Parks Department at the annual “Kringlefest” celebration. Taking a break from the seasonal duties of decorating Christmas trees, making shopping lists and wrapping gifts, parents and children alike were welcomed to …read more.

UPDATE — Phillip J. Armey, 43, Heron Boulevard, Warsaw, suffered minor bleeding to his face and head following his 1985 Pontiac Fiero hitting the back of a semitractor-trailer Sunday morning. Armey was checked by paramedics, but refused medical treatment. The driver of the semitractor, Thomas D. Smotherman, 37, Whitney Street, Detroit, Mich., was not injured. …read more.

UPDATE: David A. Gentile, 59, Grayfield Court, Fort Wayne, was not injured in a single-vehicle accident Saturday evening on Lake City Highway, west of Anchorage Road, Warsaw. But he was transported to Kosciusko Community Hospital for non-accident related matters. Warsaw Police report the accident occurred at 6:21 p.m. Gentile told police he was eastbound in …read more.

WARSAW — Yesterday evening men, women and children lined the streets in downtown Warsaw during December’s First Friday event to watch the annual Twinkle Lights Parade. Emergency vehicles, tow trucks and more decked in lights drove down Center Street sprinkling the crowd with candy as they drove past. The lighted vehicles led the way to …read more.

WARSAW — Numerous county organizations and community members visited Martin’s Supermarket, located on Mariner’s Drive, Warsaw, not only for their Saturday morning shopping but to give back to the community. The Morales family have been attending the annual, live Toys For Tots drive as volunteers for approximately 27 years according to Officer Dave Morales of …read more.

SYRACUSE — Over 500 people, which included children and their families, spent Saturday, Dec. 5 having Breakfast with Santa at the Syracuse Community Center. Children also made crafts, met Santa, and had a free breakfast. The annual Breakfast with Santa event is sponsored by Wawasee Kiwanis Club and six other agencies. The Wawasee High School …read more.

FORT WAYNE — Dr. Ben Carson’s presidential campaign will be making a stop in Fort Wayne.

[weaver_youtube Ohio4LL_heQ rel=0] WARSAW — December’s First Friday is currently underway in Warsaw. Despite a temperature of 41 degrees, children, adults and pets alike are strolling the streets of Warsaw to enjoy some pre-Christmas holiday cheer. Guests began lining up for a chance to see Santa in the Optimist Club’s Santa House, currently parked at the …read more.

MILFORD — One person will reportedly be transported to the hospital following a rollover accident at the intersection of CR 1300N and CR 250E, east of Milford. Milford Fire Department and Lutheran EMS has responded. Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department and Syracuse Police are at the scene. The driver was the lone occupant in a white …read more.

WARSAW — The KCH Health & Wellness Center hosted the Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy’s Dec. 2 meeting where the students learned about orthopedics and healthcare in the county. KYLA moderator, Tony Ciriello and Jay de los Reyes, chief operating officer for Kosciusko Community Hospital welcomed the students. Brad Harris stated that he has been working …read more.

WARSAW — A grade separation study on railroad crossings in the downtown Warsaw area was approved Friday morning, Dec. 4. The study is to see if going under or over current crossings is economical and feasible. BOW members approved signing an agreement with American Structurepoint, Fort Wayne, for the Center Street Grade Separation Feasibility Study. …read more.

Weekly picks for local high school, college and pro sports from IFN write Nick Goralczyk.

WARSAW — Warsaw Fire Department and Lutheran EMS are responding to a two vehicle accident on 2455 Jalynn St., Warsaw, and may include a semi.

WINONA LAKE — With Thanksgiving quickly approaching this week, many Christmas fanatics are excitedly beginning to “deck the halls,” create shopping lists and even put up the family Christmas tree. For those too excited to wait till Christmas day, Winona Lake Parks and Recreation Department is offering an opportunity to enjoy the season’s cheer. From …read more.

[weaver_youtube djpdG06-LuI rel=0] WASRAW — When Warsaw resident Adam Churchill’s wife surprised him with software to create his own synchronized light show, he had no way of knowing how big his project would become. “One day, we were on YouTube looking at the Larsons’ Christmas display and I told my wife that would be so much …read more.

WARSAW — The City of Warsaw has announce the final week for leaf pick up has been scheduled for the week of Dec. 7. Large piles of leaves can be raked to the curb or alley, not in the street. The leaves will be picked up on each resident’s regular trash day and need to …read more.

WARSAW — A one-year-sentence for failure to register as a sex or violent offender will be appealed, with the blessings of the court. Adrian P. Cirsostomo, 32, 8110 Hepton Road, Nappanee, who was arrested on May 5, was sentenced to one year in the Kosciusko County Jail Thursday morning. Cirstomo was given credit for 190 …read more.

WARSAW — The Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department has a new recreation director, though not necessarily a new face. Sheila Wieringa officially started as recreation director Nov. 9. Prior to that, she worked with the parks department as an administrative assistant since December, 2011. When she heard the recreation director position was opening, she knew it would …read more.

NOBLE COUNTY — An Elkhart Woman was taken to Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne, after a one-vehicle accident at 8:56 a.m. today, Dec. 4, which closed US 33 at CR 200N in Noble County for approximately an hour. According to the Noble County Sheriff’s Department, Debra K. Milner, 60, Edwards Road, Elkhart, complained of …read more.

NORTH WEBSTER — The district voted with a five to one yes to put a plan in place for property owners to be added to the project who may have refused to join before, purchased new property within the district, or one of several other possible reasons. Treasurer Mike DeWald was the only board member to vote no.

MARSHALL COUNTY — Marshall County Police Department were dispatched around 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 30, to a residence on Timber Lane, Plymouth, in reference to a stray bullet hitting the home, almost hitting the resident. The bullet eventually landed on the living room floor.

Court cases before Kosciusko Superior Court Judge David Cates Thursday morning, Dec. 3, ranged from issuing sentences to taking plea agreements under advisement. The court accepted the plea agreement of Jarrod W. Turpen, 30, 6179 W 100N, Warsaw, sentencing him to a lesser but included charge of criminal confinement, a level 6 felony instead of …read more.

UPDATE: At 9:35 a.m. Friday, Dec. 4, officers with Warsaw Police Department as well as Lutheran EMS responded to an accident located at Lake City Highway and Silveus crossing. According to an accident reported filed by WPD, the accident occurred between a semi, driven by Scott G. Elkin, 55, Holton Road, LaPorte, and a minivan, driven …read more.

  WARSAW — The KCH Orthopedic Center is open and organizers and staff celebrated last evening, Thursday, Dec. 3, with an open house and tours of the facility. The center, located on the third floor, encompasses a variety of areas. The idea has been in the planning since March, 2014, when a team of 12 surgeons, …read more.

MARSHALL COUNTY — The Marshall County Sheriff’s Department is asking anyone with information regarding a burglary at Cindy’s Restaurant sometime between 3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 2, and 12:23 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 3, to contact police.

WARSAW — First Friday will take place this week on Friday, Dec. 4. The celebration will begin at 5 p.m. with events happening all evening long. Saint Nicholas will be flying into Warsaw Friday evening to celebrate December’s First Friday from 5-9 p.m. If you are unable to attend First Friday don’t worry. Santa will …read more.

SYRACUSE — Wawasee High School’s Choral Department will present a Christmas celebration for the public at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15, in the high school auditorium.

WARSAW — In this day and age, going to the grocery store or keeping an appointment typically means getting into the car and driving to the appropriate destination. For many Kosciusko County residents, however, getting around is not that simple. Those who do not drive often have to rely on others who may not always be available. This is where organizations …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Office of Defense Developmen recently hosted their second community roundtable with regional economic development partners and representatives from the offices of U.S. Senators Dan Coats and Joe Donnelly.

INDIANAPOLIS — In accordance with a presidential proclamation issued today, Thursday, Dec. 3, Indiana Gov. Mike Pence is directing flags at state facilities statewide be flown at half-staff in honor of the victims of the tragedy in San Bernardino, Calif. on Dec. 2.

KOSCIUSKO COUNTY — The Miss Kosciusko Scholarship Program has a Princess Pageant just for young girls who have dreamed of becoming a princess. Join the county scholarship program for a memorable experience by participating as a Miss Kosciusko County Princess. The program will be held at 5 p.m. Jan. 16, at Wawasee Middle School. This …read more.

By AMANDA ZAMBRANO Master Gardener Intern WARSAW — I think plants are such a lovely gift to give at the holidays, as well as an affordable way to decorate your home. Live evergreen trees, poinsettias, and holiday cactus are all festive and bring beauty to the dreariness of winter. Live evergreens, whether as trees, wreaths …read more.

KOSCIUSKO — The Kosciusko County Alcoholic Beverage Commission held its monthly meeting today, Dec. 3, at 1 p.m. There were ten renewals granted, alongside five renewals with violations, two new licenses and one transfer of ownership.

KOSCIUSKO COUNTY — The Salvation Army “Friday Night Challenge” will kick-off this Friday, Dec. 4, at Wal-Mart Supercenter, Warsaw, with Star Wars theme — Rebels vs. The Empire ringing bells at both doors.

By STEPHANIE OVERBEY Kosciusko Community Foundation Inc. KOSCIUSKO COUNTY — The Smithstrong Foundation Fund was recently established at the Kosciusko County Community Foundation in memory of Charlie and Scott Smith. Michelle Smith LeDrew and Ryan Smith established the fund in memory of their father, Charlie, and their brother, Scott. The fund will annually support Tippecanoe …read more.

By JUSTIN STEVENS Indiana State Director, Americans For Prosperity INDIANAPOLIS — Americans for Prosperity’s Indiana chapter today, Wednesday, Dec. 3, began informing citizens and lawmakers on the facts about the state gas tax in the lead up to the transportation funding debate. AFP pointed out that the state’s high gas tax is the exception to the …read more.

ELKHART — The Indiana State Supreme Court Wednesday unanimously denied a petition to rehear cases for three members of the Elkhart Four who had convictions overturned.

ETNA GREEN — Etna Green Town Councilman Andrew Cook has recently submitted a declination of re-election by default to another term, effective Jan. 1. Cook ran unopposed in the election, and now there is a vacant seat on the council.

NORTH LIBERTY — Indiana Conservation Officers will host a recruiting event at 5 p.m. next Tuesday, December 8, at Potato Creek State Park Nature Center, 25601 SR 4, North Liberty. The presentation will last approximately one hour and topics will include physical fitness standards, a practice test, the duties and ethical expectations of Indiana conservation …read more.

LEESBURG — All are invited to attend a special ceremony for the annual displaying of Leesburg’s life-size Nativity at the town’s Clover Park at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12. Clover Park is located on the south side of Van Buren Street in Leesburg. The Nativity, which for many years was displayed in front of the …read more.

WARSAW — Two Warsaw residents are behind bars after being arrested late last night, Wednesday, Dec. 2, in Pierceton. Megan Leigh Slone, 26, of 425 Wexford Place, Warsaw, was booked in the Kosciusko County Jail for dealing in a narcotic drug, a level 5 felony; conspiring to commit a felony dealing in a narcotic drug, …read more.

MENTONE — The Palestine Bible Church will host a Christmas music concert featuring local Christian music group – By Grace at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 13. By Grace consists of Anna Jackson, Janet Hawley, Rachel Hawley and Michaela Hawley. By Grace will touch your heart with their music, put a smile on your face and most importantly, reflect Christ’s love to everyone who hears them sing.

By BRUCE ANDREWS Fruit Basket Committee Chair, Kiwanis Club of Warsaw WARSAW — Now in its fifth year, the annual fruit basket sale by the Kiwanis Club of Warsaw has helped a variety of nonprofit organizations. Large baskets each contain two pears, four jumbo oranges and 10 apples. Small baskets each contain one pear, two jumbo oranges …read more.

HAMMOND — For more than a decade, the Towle Theater in downtown Hammond has brought new and exciting theatrical works to the Northwest Indiana region and 2016 is no different. Now entering its 13th season, the Towle is bringing more premiere productions.

WARSAW — ‘Tis the season to be giving and while many legitimate charities are accepting holiday donations, there are also those seeking to exploit the generous, yet unsuspecting. Information is key when it comes to choosing a charity. According to Amy Kill of the Better Business Bureau, northern Indiana, a legitimate charity should willingly disclose any information a …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — The executive director of the Indiana Bicentennial Commission says next week’s Statehood Day will kick off dozens of events that will lead up to a “singular moment” in the state’s history. Perry Hammock says community and individual involvement in events that will take place in all 92 counties has brought thousands of Hoosiers together. In all, there are nearly 700 registered projects, with more than half designated Bicentennial Legacy Projects.

By BRITTANY LYON Director, Gradway LEESBURG — Gradway recently recognized Bob and Waneta Bishop, Bishop Farms, Leesburg, who have supported at-risk Kosciusko County students for three years through donations. As a result of their continued giving, local students at risk for not graduating are able to receive coaching to guide them toward successful completion of …read more.

ELKHART COUNTY — Four new troopers reported to the Indiana State Police Post on the Toll Road Monday, including Warsaw Community High School graduate, Matthew Drudge. The Toll Road Post is located in Bristol and covers the entire stretch of Interstate 80/90 from Illinois to Ohio. The troopers are welcomed from the class of 46 …read more.

By NICHOLE HACHA-THOMAS Media Relations Director, INDOT WARSAW — Current weather forecasts indicate scattered rain and snow showers will impact roadways in northern Indiana this afternoon and last through the evening hours. Pavement temperatures are expected to remain above freezing throughout the daylight hours but temperatures are forecasted to drop through the evening.  Indiana Department …read more.

KOSCIUSKO COUNTY — In 2012, at the age of 26, Wawasee graduate Adrian McDaniel found herself in the doctor’s office receiving a diagnosis that would change her life. McDaniel was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma — formerly known as Hodgkin’s disease. The disease is a form of cancer that attacks the lymphatic system, which is part …read more.

NORTHERN INDIANA — The National Weather Service, Northern Indiana, issued a hazardous weather outlook at 4:05 p.m. today, Dec. 2. Kosciusko, Noble, Marshall, Fulton, and Whitley counties are included in that outlook. NWS reports scattered snow showers are expected into the early evening with little to no accumulation. Roads should remain mainly wet, but slick …read more.

WARSAW — The Kosciusko County Historical Society will host a Christmas House Tour from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12. Tour five homes and the old Jail Museum decked out in Christmas finery.

SYRACUSE — With the new year just around the corner, the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce sought to get 2016 events, budgets, membership packets and more in order at its regular board meeting Wednesday, Dec. 2.

WARSAW — Close to an hour of discussion and debate about a preliminary plat petition from Terry Shepherd led to no vote on the petition being taken by the Kosciusko County Area Planning Commission during its regular monthly meeting Wednesday afternoon, Dec. 2, in Warsaw.

By MADISSON HEINL Communications Specialist, Center for Lakes & Streams at Grace College WINONA LAKE — The Center for Lakes & Streams Lake in the Classroom program kicked off the 2015-2016 school year this October with a record 29 aquariums. The Lake in the Classroom program supplies aquariums, sponsored by local organizations, to Kosciusko County …read more.

WARSAW — The Warsaw Rotary Club will observe its 88th annual Rotary Toy Day by bringing toys to their meeting this 12 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, at the Shrine Building. The event was started in 1927 when the club met at the Hotel Hays in downtown Warsaw, which is the present site of Lake City …read more.

UPDATE: Scott Pelfrey remains in critical condition at IU Methodist Hospital, Indianapolis, where he underwent surgery Tuesday evening. According to his wife, Bobbie, he still has two more surgeries. Bobbie Pelfrey reports her husband suffered six broken ribs — three on each side; a broken hip; broken femur, fibula and tibia in his left leg; …read more.

SYRACUSE — New Paris Fire Department and EMS personnel are responding to a two-car accident on CR 29 and U.S. Highway 6, in Syracuse.

INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) today announced over $9 million in funding for the Stormwater Improvements Program (SIP) was awarded to 11 communities throughout the state, including Ligonier.

By JOY LOHSEE Lutheran Health Network, Kosciusko Community Hospital, Marketing Director WARSAW — Kosciusko Community Hospital and Lutheran EMS Kosciusko presented a check for $1,470 to Warsaw Community High School allowing WCHS to purchase an automated external defibrillator to be placed in the swimming pool arena. Edgewood Nurse Tracey Akers said, “When assessing WCHS facilities …read more.

INDIANA — Gas prices are plunging around the country, with the national average falling in 24 out of the past 30 days, according to AAA. The price of a gallon of regular now stands at $2.04 nationally, down 14 cents compared to one month ago and 74 cents lower than this time last year. In early 2015, the national average dropped near the $2 mark but never crossed it. But AAA and others anticipate that we’ll dip below the $2 threshold within a matter of days.