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

When the call came in for masks, due to the COVID-19 crisis, one Leesburg woman knew she needed to spring into action. Ever since, Marsha Frantisak of Leesburg has been making masks for United Way of Kosciusko County.

As of noon Friday, May 22, the Kosciusko County Health Department reported now new cases of COVID-19. The county’s total number of positive cases remains at 68.

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.

As of noon Thursday, May 21, the Kosciusko County Health Department reported six new cases of COVID-19. The county’s total number of positive cases is now at 68.

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

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.

In 1974, President Gerald Ford authorized National EMS Week to celebrate EMS practitioners and the dedication they pour into the work they do for the community.

On Wednesday, May 20, Lakeland Regional Sewer District Board of Trustees voted to extend the suspension of failure to connect penalties through to July 3, in keeping with Governor Holcomb’s planned timeline for lifting COVID-19 restrictions.

The Food Bank of Northern Indiana will be distributing more free food next week.

Floodwaters on several lakes are high enough that officials are banning motorized watercraft from above idle speed.

Residents of Forest Park Mobile Home Community in Warsaw are expressing concerns over continued flooding issues.

The Department of Natural Resources has placed an idle speed restriction on watercraft on the Barbee chain of lakes.

As of noon Wednesday, May 20, the Kosciusko County Health Department reported no new cases of COVID-19. The county’s total number of positive cases remains at 62.

Lake City Bank has announced that Bridget M. Camden has been promoted to credit administration officer. 

Claypool Town Council heard an inquiry regarding a vacant Section Street lot during a meeting on Tuesday, May 19.

News Release WARSAW — Cardinal Services is one of 11 nonprofit organizations to receive a surprise $50,000 award from AWS Foundation. The agencies, all serving people with disabilities in Northeast Indiana, were informed of the awards via a Zoom meeting last week. Cardinal CEO Randy Hall praised AWS Foundation and its board in a news …read more.

Anyone who would like to donate artwork or art-related supplies and equipment to the Lakeland Art Association’s first online auction must do so from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 20; or from 2 to 6 p.m. Thursday, May 21.

Former Indiana Secretary of State and Fourth District Congressman Todd Rokita announced Wednesday, May 20, that he is seeking the Republican nomination for the Office of Attorney General at the upcoming Indiana Republican State Convention.

A total of $60,000 has been directed by the town council to help offset financial problems for town businesses hurt by the pandemic.

After a six-year run that saw the street department move from a state of “shambles” to a prototype for other cities to consider, Warsaw Public Works Superintendent Jeff Beeler is stepping aside.

The Syracuse-Wawasee Trail Committee has announced that the Conklin Bay trail and boardwalk project in Syracuse is complete and open to the public. An official ribbon cutting will be scheduled at a later date.

Tippecanoe Valley High School Principal Brandon Kresca recently released more details on the senior parade happening this Friday, May 22.

By Phoebe Muthart InkFreeNews SYRACUSE — Syracuse-Wawasee Trails Committee conducted a virtual Zoom meeting Monday night, May 18. An update on the new Conklin Bay project was given. Selge Construction completed the project last Wednesday, May 13. A final walk-through was last Friday, May 15, and went well with minor issues to address. Erlene Yentes, …read more.

The Lakeland Regional Sewer District will hold its regular meeting at 6 p.m.  Wednesday, May 20. The meeting will be held at the district office located at 5002 E 100N. Warsaw. Pursuant to Indiana Executive Order 20-09 Section 4, the “Executive Order,” this hearing will also be available utilizing electronic participation.

Local small businesses and nonprofits can now utilize the state’s new online marketplace to request personal protective equipment, according to State Rep. Dave Wolkins.

Warsaw Community Schools recently announced the Class of 2020 Work Ethic Certificate recipients. 

Eisenhower Elementary School’s Dual Language Immersion students achieved high composite scores in Spanish proficiency in a December assessment.

SILVER LAKE — A veterans’ ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday. May 23, at Lakeview Cemetery in Silver Lake. This event is sponsored by the Silver Lake Lions Club. Those who attend are asked to please practice social distancing.

The Kosciusko County Council has changed the location of its June 11 meeting.

Warsaw Community Schools’ summer school program will look slightly different this year in order to be in accordance with state guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Grace College President Dr. Bill Katip released a letter to students and parents on Monday, May 18, that announced the college’s intention to reopen its campus to students in the fall.

Wawasee Community Schools recently announced the schedule for meals for children 18 and younger.

With a weekend of heavy rain, many area roads are experiencing high water and some closures.

MENTONE — The Food Bank Of Northern Indiana, in cooperation with The Salvation Army of Kosciusko County, will distribute food boxes to families in need from 10 a.m. to noon on Wednesday, May 20, at Mentone Elementary School, 301 E. Jackson St., Mentone,  in the north parking lot.  The distribution will be a drive-through event …read more.

WARSAW – Kosciusko County’s Republican Party has formally announced plans to fill the vacancy for Sidney Town Clerk-Treasurer, due to resignation of Lydia Neal. Mike Ragan, chairman of the Kosciusko County Republican Central Committee, said a selection will be announced at 6:30 p.m., May 26, at the Sidney Fire Station Meeting Room. Declarations of candidacy …read more.

Kosciusko County doesn’t get much more conservative than what was seen on Thursday night. While the city of Warsaw and state of Indiana have pitched in more than $300,000 for an emergency relief fund for small businesses – a program created by Kosciusko County Economic Development Corporation – the county itself doesn’t seem that interested …read more.

Coronavirus was an issue heard repeatedly during parts of the wide-ranging candidate forum in Warsaw Friday night.

Wildman distributed PPE at the JB Furniture parking lot Friday for frontline workers and first responders.

Warsaw Street Superintendent Jeff Beeler and City Councilman Jeff Grose plan to meet next week with homeowners who will be affected by the first phase of the reconstruction of Hodges Addition.

Residents of Silver Lake are feeling a void after the man many thought of as the town’s unofficial mayor, Phil Shalley, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, May 13, at the age of 73.

The Kosciusko County Health Department on Friday released the number of COVID-19 cases by zip codes.

Three Warsaw Community High School students created customized pieces of art for Warsaw Schools’ elementary buildings through their Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy project.

Several of Kosciusko County’s department heads attended Thursday evening’s county council meeting to provide updates on how their duties have been affected by COVID-19, as well as what new methods have been implemented to keep employees and citizens safe.

The Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce and The Kosciusko County Bar Association are hosting a candidate forum that will feature the four-way race for Superior 3 and several other competitive primary races at 6 p.m. Friday, May 15.

Kosciusko County Council tabled discussion on whether to contribute to an emergency loan program set up by the county’s economic development office for small businesses hurt by the pandemic.

A state legislative leader said Thursday he believes significant spending cuts might be needed to address Indiana’s financial stress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

It appears the debate over what to do about the old Silver Lake school building is over — and the building is coming down.

Despite heavy rain and thunderstorms, Oakwood Resort gave away 350 free meals Thursday, May 14, in Syracuse.

A Statewide Silver Alert has been declared for a Warsaw man.

As of noon Thursday, May 14, the Kosciusko County Health Department reported two new cases of COVID-19, bringing the county’s total number of positive cases to 53.

Milford Town Council held an in-person meeting, Monday, May 11, in the community building, where guidelines for social distancing could be observed. As well as approving motions relating to the CR 1300N overpass and workforce housing (see related article), the council caught up on business put on hold during the COVID-19 lockdown.

North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce board of directors met via Zoom Monday, May 11. The meeting covered an event set tentatively for Saturday, Aug. 22, to bring people to town to shop, distribution of the newly released North Webster Community Guides, and beginning the search for two new board members.

The National Weather Service in Northern Indiana has issued a Special Weather Statement for western Kosciusko County.

The Lodge, a Christian retreat center in Syracuse, has new caretakers, Mitch and Kim Moser. The couple recently moved from Fort Wayne to Syracuse to take on this new challenge.

Staff Report WARSAW – The next few days in northern Indiana will be warmer and wet, according to the National Weather Service. High temperatures Thursday through Sunday will reach into the lower 70s, but will be accompanied by strong chances of rain. The forecast for Thursday, May 14, calls for a 70% chance of showers …read more.

While the town of Syracuse and Polywood LLC hammer out the final details in a economic development agreement (see related story), Chad Jonsson, Syracuse Park superintendent, and Syracuse Town Councilman Larry Martindale have been working on a preliminary plan for the new ball park.

News Release WARSAW – The Food Bank of Northern Indiana and Salvation Army will be distributing free food next week. This is a drive-through distribution of pre-boxed and pre-bagged items. First come, first served, for up to 500 households while supplies last for those in need of food assistance. The following is a partial list …read more.

Press Release WARSAW — Titus Funeral Home is offering free tribute videos to the families of graduating students. The video tribute can then be shared with friends or loved ones virtually or in-person later at a graduation ceremony. Cory Benz, owner of Titus Funeral Home, said he remembers his senior year of high school as …read more.

Despite a significant uptick in local COVID-19 cases, Kosciusko County’s Health Officer, Dr. William Remington, on Wednesday expressed optimism and insights on what he sees as an improving situation.

Press Release WARSAW — As Warsaw Community Schools approaches the close of the 2019-20 school year, WCS Superintendent Dr. David Hoffert would like to thank parents for their continued support and encourage students across the district to finish strong. “While these past few months have challenged us all, there is still great cause for celebration …read more.

By Liz Shepherd InkFreeNews PIERCETON — Two local men face criminal charges after allegedly stealing a tractor and burglarizing Loose Moose Motor Sports in Pierceton. Jeremy Louis Coburn, 40, 916 S. Hansing St., Syracuse, is charged with burglary, a level 5 felony; and theft, a level 6 felony. Tristen Lee Terry, 34, 9688 E. Excalibur …read more.

By Liz Shepherd InkFreeNews WARSAW — As of noon Wednesday, May 13, the Kosciusko County Health Department reported two new cases of COVID-19, bringing the county’s total number of positive cases to 51. Statewide, the latest posting on the Indiana State Department of Health website shows the number of COVID-19 deaths in Indiana rose to …read more.

Press Release NORTH MANCHESTER — The rising demand for professionals who can understand health issues affecting communities of people has led to Manchester University’s creation of a new major to help meet that need, according to a news release from the university. In population health, which begins in fall 2020, students will learn how to …read more.

The Salvation Army Central Territory is offering an “Emotional & Spiritual Care Hotline”

By Liz Shepherd InkFreeNews WARSAW — A Silver Lake woman will serve a year in jail for violating her rules of probation after she battered a police officer. Tina Marie Cole, 38, 106 S. High St., Silver Lake, was charged with battery against a public safety official, a level 6 felony. Cole was sentenced for …read more.

LEESBURG — A community curbside meal event will take place from 5 p.m. until food is gone May 18.  The event will be held at the Leesburg Lions Club, located at 114 School Street in Leesburg. Stacy’s of Leesburg is preparing the food, with 275 meals to be given out to those in need. The …read more.

The Etna Green Town Council discussed the town’s noise ordinance and property upkeep during an in-person meeting on Tuesday, May 12.

Late Tuesday afternoon, May 12, the Wawasee School Board held a quick emergency meeting in the conference room of the school corporation’s central office in Syracuse. Only three people were present including board president Rebecca Linnemeier, superintendent Dr. Tom Edington and Tammy Hutchinson, Edington’s secretary.

A man was recently arrested after a high-speed vehicle pursuit that led to the discovery of drugs.

As of noon Tuesday, May 12, the Kosciusko County Health Department reported three new cases of COVID-19, bringing the county’s total number of positive cases to 49.

Attorney Steve Snyder, left, is seen wearing a mask while social distancing is being practiced during this month’s Kosciusko County Board of Zoning Appeals meeting. By Maggie Kenworthy InkFreeNews WARSAW — With only five cases on the agenda, the Kosciusko County Board of Zoning Appeals meeting held this morning, May 12, went quicker than usual. …read more.

By Lasca Randels InkFreeNews WARSAW — Kosciusko Community Corrections Executive Director Barry Andrew received permission to apply for two grants at the Kosciusko County Commissioners meeting held Tuesday, May 12. Barry Andrew Commissioners gave approval for Andrew to apply for the 2021 Community Corrections grant, which averages $360,000 each year, and the 2021 Drug Court …read more.

Press Release AKRON — Tippecanoe Valley High School will hold an in-person graduation ceremony for the Class of 2020 on Sunday, July 19. More information on specific event details will be released to seniors and their families prior to the event. A backup date is set for Sunday, July 26. The baccalaureate ceremony will begin …read more.

News Release SYRACUSE — The Food Bank of Northern Indiana, in cooperation with The Salvation Army of Kosciusko County, will distribute food boxes to families in need from 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday, May 13, at Wawasee High School, Syracuse. The truck and volunteers will be located at the main entrance of the high school. …read more.

By David Hazledine InkFreeNews MILFORD — Milford Town Council and Redevelopment Commission were back in action Monday, May 11, with agendas indicative of eventful months ahead for the town. Both meetings were attended by Steve Moriarty, Kosciusko County Highway Department superintendent, who gave a brief presentation on plans to extend CR 1300N and future railroad …read more.

By Lasca Randels InkFreeNews LEESBURG — The Leesburg Memorial Day Parade will take place this year — with a couple of modifications.  The parade will take place at 10:30 a.m. May 25, with line up at 10:15 a.m. “We are going to have a ceremony here and at the cemetery as always,” Leesburg Street Commissioner …read more.

Press Release WARSAW — Warsaw Community High School has been honored with the SupportMusic Merit Award from The NAMM Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education. The SupportMusic Merit Award recognizes individual schools that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students. To qualify for the SupportMusic Merit …read more.

CROMWELL — The Turkey Creek Regional Sewer District will hold its regular meeting at 7 p.m. Monday, May 18. Pursuant to Indiana Executive Order 20-09 Section 4 this hearing will be conducted utilizing electronic participation only. The district office is closed and there will be no in person participation. There will be an opportunity for …read more.

Staff Report ETNA GREEN — The town of Etna Green will holding its monthly council meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 12. It will be an in-person meeting. The meeting is open to the public.

Decisions, perhaps the easiest ones to be made, were handled by the Tippecanoe Chapman Lakes Regional Sewer District Board tonight, Monday, May 11. The board not only elected its officers, but preliminarily decided on a treatment provider, thus filling the remaining vacancy on the board and adopted its first resolution.

Members of the Warsaw Plan Commission attended the meeting virtually via the television pictured to the left of the Council Chambers. By Maggie Kenworthy InkFreeNews   WARSAW — The meeting of the Warsaw Plan Commission held this evening, May 11, looked different this month as commissioners attended virtually. City Planner Jeremy Skinner, Senior City Planner …read more.

Press Release WARSAW — United Way of Kosciusko County announced that it has been approved to receive a $450,000 COVID-19 Economic Relief Initiative Grant, made possible through a partnership between Lilly Endowment, Inc. and Indiana United Ways. These funds will be used to boost the local COVID-19 pandemic response efforts.  “United Way of Kosciusko County …read more.

By Lasca Randels InkFreeNews INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Attorney General Curtis Hill is officially suspended from practicing law in Indiana for 30 days. The suspension begins May 18 and stems from allegations of sexual misconduct that occurred at a 2018 gathering of legislative staffers. The alleged incidents took place at AJ’s Lounge in downtown Indianapolis in …read more.

SYRACUSE — Due to COVID-19 restrictions, Chautauqua-Wawasee is rescheduling the May 21 Historical Lake Wawasee “Then & Now” S.S. Lillypad Cruise to July 31.  All tickets that were purchased for the May 21 program are being fully refunded. Organizers apologize that no ticket exchanges are possible. Those wishing to attend the July 31 Cruise will …read more.

By Liz Shepherd InkFreeNews WARSAW — The Kosciusko County Health Department reported seven new cases of COVID-19, bringing the county’s total number of positive cases to 46. The spike in reported cases represents the biggest jump seen in Kosciusko County since the tracking began. Statewide, the latest posting on the Indiana State Department of Health …read more.

News Release WARSAW — Warsaw Community Schools will hold an in-person graduation ceremony at 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 17, on the high school football field. The ceremony will observe social distancing guidelines. Since this is an outdoor event, the first rain date would be 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 18, and the second rain date is …read more.

Red yard signs seem to be the color of choice for at least five local candidates in the upcoming June 2 primary, but two of those are emanating from the same household.

Food insecurity was a problem in Indiana well before the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2018, roughly one million Hoosiers had limited or uncertain access to adequate food, above the national average.

Following Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb’s announcement of a five-step plan to reopening the state, churches are faced with a decision on how — and when — to reopen.

A Warsaw woman was recently arrested after stealing items from Harbor Freight Tools while being employed there.

Press Release WARSAW — The Warsaw Education Foundation is offering Honor an Educator tribute packages during the month of May. Show appreciation to a special educator for their extraordinary efforts to continue providing educational activities and lessons for all children of Warsaw Community Schools during these unprecedented circumstances. Don’t forget those bus drivers for helping …read more.

The National Weather Service of Northern Indiana has declared a freeze warning for Kosciusko County and surrounding areas.