INDIANAPOLIS — More than 6,900 people have been tested for COVID-19 in Indiana as of Friday, March 27, according to the Indiana Department of Health. The latest posting on the ISDH website shows the number of deaths increased from 17 on Thursday to 24 on Friday morning. The number of positive cases in Indiana totals …read more.

FORT WAYNE — Parkview Physicians Group has created designated “respiratory clinics,” focused on treating patients with signs and symptoms of novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The main symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough or difficulty breathing. Patients with these symptoms are encouraged to call 1-877-PPG-TODAY (1-877-774-8632) for a free screening and to be directed to appropriate care, …read more.

WARSAW – Kosciusko County Health Officer Dr. William Remington predicted more positive cases will be reported in short order locally after officials announced the first case in the county earlier in the day. Remington met with the media hours after the announcement Thursday afternoon. Officials declined to give any details about the person who tested …read more.

GOSHEN — Jason Dewart has been hired as a business development officer at Interra Credit Union, Goshen. In his new position, Dewart will be headquartered at the corporate office in Goshen and will focus on building new business relationships and serving existing members, primarily within Iterra’s eastern and southern footprint. “I look forward to increasing …read more.

ROCHESTER — Fulton and Whitley counties joined Kosciusko County on Thursday, March 26, in confirmed its first COVID-19 cases. According to a statement from the Whitley County Health Department, a resident of Whitley County has tested positive for COVID-19. All contacts with the individual are being notified to observe for symptoms. “At this time we …read more.

WARSAW — Lakeland Art Association will hold its annual juried spring show this May. However, due to the uncertainty of future events, the LAA may have to change show dates. Check the LAA website and Facebook page for updates. If, by chance, the LAA board decides it is best to cancel the show, notices will …read more.

WARSAW – Kosciusko County has recorded its first case of Coronavirus. The health department announced the first positive case of COVID-19 in the county. Dr. Bill Remington, Jr., the county health officer, is working closely with local and state officials to ensure the contacts of the patient are identified and monitored and that all infection …read more.

SYRACUSE — The Lakeland Regional Sewer District would like to remind all customers those items that should not be flushed down the toilet. Products that seem flushable such as paper towels, disposable wipes, and used cooking grease can cause blockages in your sewer line to the grinder which can lead to a sewer back up …read more.

WINONA LAKE — Grace College officials announced that on-campus classes are suspended through the end of the spring 2020 semester. Grace’s courses will continue to be delivered remotely, and the Commencement ceremony scheduled for May is suspended. “This is one of the hardest decisions of my 40-plus years in higher education,” stated Grace College President …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — More than 4,500 people have been tested for COVID-19 in Indiana as of Thursday, March 26, according to the Indiana Department of Health. The latest posting on the ISDH website shows the number of deaths increased from 14 on Wednesday to 17 on Thursday morning. The number of positive cases in Indiana totals …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Commission for Higher Education is seeking applicants for the next Student Commission Member position. The student member, to be appointed by Gov. Eric Holcomb, will serve on the Commission from July 1, 2020, through June 30, 2022. The student member is a full voting member of the Commission for Higher Education, …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — In a continuing effort to slow the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19), Gov. Eric Holcomb has announced additional efforts, including new guidance for child care. “There is a critical need for child care for those workers who are taking care of others and helping Hoosiers keep food and supplies in their homes. We …read more.

WARSAW — Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation today announced updates to terms of early-stage loans from the organization’s Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) to meet the immediate needs of local businesses. “We understand that building ‘locally owned, locally grown’ includes helping clients build resiliency during times of uncertainty,” said KEDCo CEO Alan Tio.  “Our team is reaching …read more.

WARSAW —  Kosciusko County Commissioners reviewed and approved an ordinance adopting an amended Health Pandemic Emergency Closing policy at a lengthy special meeting held Wednesday, March 25. Commissioners approved the change in policy at a meeting March 17, which ensured that county employees would be paid for scheduled work in the event of an emergency …read more.

WARSAW – A desperate call last week for help from the American Red Cross for blood led to some positive reaction. But there’s been a setback. Because of the social distancing expectation, the Red Cross cannot use its standard bloodmobiles for blood drives for the time being. As a result, four blood drives planned at …read more.

FORT WAYNE — Given the public health concerns arising from COVID-19 and following the directive of Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb, Parkview Foundation’s Cookin’ Men presented by Fifth Third Bank will be a virtual event for 2020. The annual event previously featured food prepared by “celebrity” chefs, a silent auction and other activities for a sold-out …read more.

Editor’s note: Less than an hour after posting this story, we learned it has been postponed. NORTH MANCHESTER — Maegan Pollonais will perform “Songs of the Islands” at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 26, in the upper level of the Jo Young Switzer Center at Manchester University. Because of restrictions imposed by COVID-19, the venue will …read more.

WARSAW – Kosciusko County has released an update on coronavirus testing. As of Tuesday, March 24, the county has received notice on 66 total tests performed, according to a statement released Wednesday afternoon, March 25. All results so far have been negative, according to a statement from the health department. The health department statement noted …read more.

WARSAW — With all Indiana schools now remaining closed until May 1 by order of Gov. Eric Holcomb, several Kosciusko County school corporations, including Warsaw Community Schools, are using school buses as temporary WiFi hotspots. On WCS eLearning days (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays), bus drivers travel to 19 locations for Warsaw students to provide free …read more.

WARSAW — The Kosciusko REMC Board of Directors named Kurt D. Carver as the cooperative’s president and chief executive officer. Carver was previously manager of engineering and operations for KREMC and assumed the role from Bruce Goslee, who retires March 28. “I am honored to have been selected as the next CEO of Kosciusko REMC,” …read more.

FORT WAYNE — Parkview Health is partnering with businesses and volunteers to protect its supply of personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Though Parkview currently has an adequate supply of face masks, face shields and other PPE, innovative measures are being taken to ensure the international shortage doesn’t impact local patients or caregivers. “Parkview …read more.

WEST LAFAYETTE — A  new program at Purdue University is aimed at high school students. Fast Start, created by Purdue University in partnership with the philanthropic online learning program Modern States, is designed to help Indiana high school students earn access to up to a year of college credit through free online courses and the …read more.

WARSAW — The Kosciusko Community Foundation outlined its commitment to the community amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time of uncertainty as we face the COVID-19 pandemic, we are certain of one thing. Our commitment to serving you and our community remains steadfast, said Stephanie Overbey, CEO of the Kosciusko Community Foundation in a letter …read more.

WARSAW — The Kosciusko County Justice Building and the adjacent Kosciusko County Courthouse in Warsaw will be closed beginning Wednesday as a result of the Gov. Eric Holcomb’s Stay-At-Home Order. The closure will continue through April 6.   Services will resume at 8 a.m. Tuesday, April 7. The date and time at which the offices …read more.

WARSAW — Two Whitley County men face charges of drug-dealing after two alleged incidents in one day. In the first case, Donald Alan Boseker, 57, 402 W. Pleasant St., Churubusco, is charged with dealing in a narcotic drug, a level 2 felony; and possession of a narcotic drug, a level 4 felony. Boseker is charged …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS —  Attorney General Curtis Hill is providing tips for those who are unsure about their travel plans during the pandemic. If one’s flight is impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, it is important to know their rights, said a news release from the office of Attorney General Hill. Airlines have slashed hundreds of flights …read more.

By Darla McCammon Are you housebound with a cranky spouse and three bored kids? Or are you the only one home and going stir-crazy? Want to throttle those people who hoarded all the toilet paper? This week you can relax, get a break, imagine you are about to go on to Jeopardy and show the …read more.

WARSAW – The city of Warsaw reported two lift stations were shut down and a pump was destroyed Monday because of improper items being flushed down toilets. Officials suspect more people are using (and flushing) disinfectant wipes as a way to combat the coronavirus. The damage comes after repeated pleas to the public in recent …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS  — Indiana’s call center, intended to field industry questions about the impact from Gov. Eric Holcomb’s directive to stay-at-home, is back online after a temporary problem. A spokesperson for the governor said it was back online late this morning and that it was already experiencing high call volumes. Holcomb instituted a statewide stay-at-home order …read more.

WARSAW — Despite cancellation of park-sponsored activities and rental facilities due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Warsaw Parks Department staff is keeping busy. Warsaw Parks & Recreation Superintendent Larry Plummer said all employees will remain in their original positions and there is no concern about layoffs at this time. “We still have 80 acres to …read more.

SYRACUSE — As it did last week, the Wawasee School Board held a special emergency meeting Tuesday morning, March 24, in Syracuse in light of the coronavirus outbreak. Only one board member — board president Rebecca Linnemeier — was present while the other board members with the exception of Mary Lou Dixon participated by phone …read more.

MILFORD — On Monday, March 23, Milford Town Council entered into what President Doug Ruch called “uncharted waters” with an emergency session held by conference call to vote on measures responding to state Gov. Eric Holcomb’s stay-at-home order issued earlier the same day. The council voted to stop utility disconnections and suspend penalties from unpaid …read more.

WARSAW — The Warsaw Community Schools Board of Trustees approved an employee pay resolution for the school corporation’s support staff during a meeting on Monday, March 23. The resolution was one of two COVID-19 resolutions that the board approved. “Traditionally, school systems are governed by the State Board of Accounts, and that means that hourly employees …read more.

WARSAW – Mayor Joe Thallemer has declared a public health emergency within Warsaw city limits. The move, following similar moves by President Donald Trump and Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb, will allow the city to respond better to the coronavirus outbreak. The executive order is in effect immediately and shall remain in effect until the health …read more.

MERRILLVILLE — NIPSCO has instituted a pandemic response plan. “We understand that this situation has changed how our customers function and operate in their daily lives,” said NIPSCO President Violet Sistovaris via a prepared statement. “With many of you teleworking and e-learning from home, we know reliable energy is necessary to fulfill these needs.” The …read more.

From the Files of the Kosciusko County Historical Society This is a retrospective series that runs a few times a month on InkFreeNews. March 23, 1978 — Total enrollment of the first Indiana Vocational Technical College courses offered in Kosciusko County has been estimated at 250 by Ivy Tech administrators. The first public and special Ivy …read more.

Gov. Eric Holcomb addresses the state during an broadcast address on Monday, March 23, regarding a stay-at-home order. INDIANAPOLIS — Gov. Eric Holcomb has issued a statewide stay-at-home order from Wednesday, March 25 to Tuesday, April 7, in a preventative measure against COVID-19. Gov. Holcomb delivered a statewide address on Monday, March 23, ordering that …read more.

WARSAW — The Kosciusko and Whitley County courts are curtailing operations through May 4. This is after the Indiana Supreme Court approved requests for both county courts for emergency relief pursuant to Indiana Administrative Rule 17 to operate under emergency conditions. Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed and Whitley County Superior Court Judge Douglas Fahl …read more.

WARSAW — Kosciusko County Commissioners will host a special meeting at Kosciusko County Courthouse at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 25. The meeting will be on the third floor of the courtroom. No reason for the meeting was given.

Ken Locke speaks as 107.3 WRSW Operations Manager Kris Lake facilitates the special broadcast on March 22. InkFreeNews photo by Kory Betts. WARSAW — Ken Locke, director of the Greater Warsaw Ministerial Association led a time of prayer on local radio Sunday, March 22 in light of the coronavirus pandemic. Locke who also serves as …read more.

ROCHESTER — The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office announced precautionary operational changes amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Effective March 22, the sheriff’s office will limit access to the administration building and the jail, said a news release from the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office issued the following changes. Calls for Service: Deputies will respond to …read more.

MENTONE — As of Wednesday, March 18, the Bell Memorial Public Library will be closed for approximately two weeks due to concerns surrounding the coronavirus. Effective immediately, all programs at Bell Memorial Public Library are canceled until further notice. The library appreciates everyone’s understanding as we do our best to keep everyone’s safe and healthy. …read more.

WARSAW – A Day of Prayer for the coronavirus pandemic is being organized in Kosciusko County. With the COVID-19 pandemic affecting business and activities in Kosciusko County and around the World, the Kosciusko County Commissioners are encouraging everyone to pray Sunday, March 22, in a Countywide Day of Prayer.   The Greater Warsaw Ministerial Association will …read more.

WARSAW — Between March 16 and March 20, WCS Food & Nutrition, in partnership with WCS Transportation, prepared and delivered over 4,000 meals to seven school locations. The locations included door-to-door deliveries for families unable to drive to one of the site locations, said a news release from Warsaw Community Schools. Marci Franks, Director of …read more.

NORTH WEBSTER — While coronavirus has grounded many normal daily activities to a halt, construction continues on the new North Webster Community Public Library building. The roof has been shingled and exterior brick is being laid while inside drywall has been hung and painting began. The crew is finishing up the ductwork for the heating …read more.

ELKHART — Elkhart County Health Department announced the first presumptive positive case of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the County, Saturday, March 21. The local health department is working closely with the local and state officials to ensure that contacts of the patient are identified and monitored and that all infection control protocols are being followed, …read more.

MENTONE — The Town of Mentone is providing an alternative means of trash disposal for its residents. Last week, Akron-based Valley Sanitation suspended regular trash pickup in Mentone until further notice, according to Tim Croy. He is a member of the Mentone Town Council. On Friday, March 20, three rollaway dumpsters were installed by the town …read more.

MENTONE — The ability to make utility payments online is now available in Mentone. Residents will be able to submit their utility payments on paygov.us. The service was officially made available Friday, March 20, according to Clerk-Treasurer Janick Norris. Payments by cash or check were long the only payment method accepted by the Clerk’s office.  …read more.

MONOQUET — First responders worked to contain a mobile home fire Friday evening, March 20. At about 5:38 p.m. Leesburg Fire Department responded to a fully engulfed mobile home on fire at 960 West Tippecanoe St. near Monoquet. Assisting agencies included Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory and Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office. The cause of the blaze is …read more.

WINONA LAKE — The Town of Winona Lake announced changes in trash pickup amidst the virus pandemic. Advanced Disposal is the company that the Town of Winona Lake contracts with for trash and recycling services.  Starting Monday, March 23, Advanced Disposal will be implementing some changes to the residential trash/recycling services due to the public health …read more.

WARSAW — Leaders from K21 Health Foundation, Kosciusko County Community Foundation, United Way of Kosciusko County and Zimmer Biomet Foundation recently met to create a unified response to the community’s needs as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Collectively, the organizations are issuing $20,000 in grants to area food pantries. These grants are considered the …read more.

WARSAW – Trying to figure out which local restaurants are offering takeout? Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce has the answer. Less than two days after Indiana’s governor mandated bars and restaurants close their doors (except for carryout and takeout) over concerns for the coronavirus, the chamber created a Facebook page titled To Go Kosciusko that allows …read more.

FORT WAYNE — Congressman Jim Banks provided updates on actions concerning the coronavirus via a town hall on Facebook Live, March 20. The livestream broadcast emanated from Banks’ district office in Fort Wayne. IU Health Fort Wayne Chief Medical Officer Geoff Randolf, Cameron Memorial Community Hospital Chief Medical Officer Todd Rumsey and New Haven Mayor …read more.

WARSAW — Lakeland Regional Sewer District Board of Trustees voted to suspend failure to connect penalties from March 1 to April 30 at a brief public meeting held Wednesday, March 18. President Jim Haney cited additional financial burdens on LRSD residents and contractors caused by the COVID-19 epidemic as the board’s reason for suspending penalties. …read more.

WARSAW — Bowen Center is now providing psychiatric, therapy and community-based services over the phone. Governor Eric Holcomb and Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction Director Jay Chaudhary, J.D. worked to allow Bowen Center the flexibility to provide care over the phone instead putting patients and mental health professionals at risk of transmitting the …read more.

SYRACUSE — Syracuse Board of Zoning Appeals approved the two variance petitions brought before it Thursday, March 19. Both votes were unanimous. Consideration of the first petition, brought by John “Jack” Gardner of 720 E. Bishop St., was resumed from the original hearing in January. Gardner sought a variance to allow the 10-by-16 shed on …read more.

WINONA LAKE — Grace College President Dr. Bill Katip, students and staff recently participated in a six-day Civil Rights Bus Tour on which the group met several heroines of the civil rights movement. The tour was led by Dr. Todd Allen, founder of The Common Ground Project, professor of communication at Messiah College, and friend …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — Governor Eric Holcomb joined Secretary of State Connie Lawson, Republican Party Chair Kyle Hupfer and Democratic Party Chair John Zody on Friday, March 20, to announce an agreement to move the date of this year’s Indiana primary election from May 5 to June 2. All dates corresponding with the primary election will be …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS – The number of people tested in Indiana for COVID-19 rose from 380 to 554 since Thursday, March 19, according to the Indiana Department of Health. The death count remains at 2. Kosciusko County does not have any positive cases so far, according to the state. Marion County, with 25 cases, has the most …read more.

WABASH — The Honeywell Foundation announced it is postponing most events through at least April. The Honeywell Foundation’s top priority is always the health and safety of its much-valued team, volunteers, and guests said a news release from the Honeywell Foundation. The Foundation is abiding by Indiana Governor Holcomb’s mandate including precautionary social distancing to …read more.

WARSAW – A Day of Prayer for the coronavirus pandemic is being organized in Kosciusko County. With the COVID-19 pandemic affecting business and activities in Kosciusko County and around the World, the Kosciusko County Commissioners are encouraging everyone to pray this Sunday, March 22, in a Countywide Day of Prayer.   The Greater Warsaw Ministerial Association …read more.

Hospitals Parkview Warsaw and Lutheran Health Network, including Kosciusko Community Hospital, have cancelled or postponed elective, medically non-urgent surgical procedures. Woodlawn Hospital in Rochester announced it is implementing a “no visitor” restriction to all of its locations. There will be no visitors permitted inside the hospital or the physician’s medical clinics. Exceptions include children under …read more.

WARSAW — A Mentone woman will serve four years in prison if she is not accepted into a community corrections program after molesting a minor in 2019. Jasmine Sue Davis, 19, 204 N. Franklin St., Mentone, was charged with child molesting, a level 4 felony. Davis was sentenced in Kosciusko Superior Court 1 on Thursday, …read more.

SILVER LAKE — The old school building in Silver Lake will soon belong to the town. Mike Baur has signed an agreement stating he will deed the property, located at 202 E. Sycamore Street, over to the town of Silver Lake for $1. Baur purchased the building, which was slated for demolition, around 2008, voicing …read more.

PIERCETON — In order to ensure the health and safety of the community, the Town of Pierceton Clerk-Treasurer’s office will be closing to the public until further notice. The office will be staffed during business hours and can be reached by phone at (574) 594-2231, according to a statement from Clerk-Treasurer Myra Mast. Utility payments …read more.

WARSAW — The Kosciusko Board of Realtors will extend its rich history of community involvement by awarding three Kosciusko County students each a $1,000 scholarship in 2020. KBOR has awarded $78,000 in scholarships since 1993 to foster and invest in tomorrow’s Kosciusko County leaders. This scholarship is specifically designed to assist bright and motivated students …read more.

LEESBURG — Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, officials in Leesburg will limit town office activity to official business only, beginning Thursday, March 19, until further notice. Utility customers may still use the drop box located at the clerk’s office.  Any questions or concerns, call the following numbers: Clerk: (574) 453-3315 Street Dept. (574) 527-2884

WARSAW — In light of Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb’s press release at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 19, Warsaw Community Schools will extend the closing of physical school buildings until May 1 in compliance with the executive order. As previously messaged, Warsaw Community Schools and active student learning continues to stay open through eLearning lessons. WCS …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — Governor Eric J. Holcomb took additional unprecedented actions on Thursday, March 19, to protect and support Hoosiers during the COVID-19 outbreak by signing executive orders that extend the closure of schools, provide economic relief and protections for individuals and businesses, and expand unemployment insurance benefits for those impacted by job loss. “Every day …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — Attorney General Curtis Hill urged Hoosiers who believe they have been subjected to excessive prices for consumer goods during the coronavirus pandemic to file a complaint online with the Office of the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. While specific price-gouging authority in Indiana law refers to fuel prices during a state of emergency, the …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — Kroger’s Central Divison announced immediate openings at its stores Wednesday. The positions may be perfect for people whose current jobs have been suspended by the coronavirus crisis, the company said in a news release from Kroger. Owen’s Supermarket on Center Street in Warsaw is owned and operated by Kroger. “Our current associates are …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — The number of people being tested in Indiana increased while the number of deaths from coronavirus remains at two. The state says 380 people have been tested, up from 193 one day earlier. The number of people testing positive rose to 56 from 39 a day earlier, according to the Indiana Department of …read more.

WARSAW — Warsaw Area Career Center senior student Jacelyn Ellinger placed third in the Microsoft Word division of the 2019 Microsoft Office Specialist Fall Qualifier state championship. Ellinger participated in this contest while taking Digital Applications and Responsibility with Mr. Scott Schramm. Ellinger received a certificate from the Microsoft Office Specialist Team as recognition for …read more.

CLAYPOOL — Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the officials in Claypool will limit town office activity to official business only beginning Thursday, March 19, until further notice. Utility customers can still use the drop box located at the clerk’s office. Any questions or concerns, call the following numbers: Clerk: (574) 566-2910 Police: (574) 566-2912 Utilities: …read more.

WARSAW — Restrictions on large gatherings as a result of COVID-19 have affected many in the community, even those who are no longer with us. Within the past two weeks, several obituaries in InkFreeNews mention the coronavirus situation, as some family members who have recently lost a loved one are deciding to postpone services, have …read more.

ETNA GREEN — The town of Etna Green is holding a council meeting at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 25, to discuss the township fire contract and a resolution for response procedures. This meeting is open to the public.

WINONA LAKE — The Kosciusko County Velo Board of Directors announced that the Fat & Skinny Tire Fest has been postponed until 2021 via a post on social media. The KCV Board of Directors and FSTF management team have followed the COVID-19 development closely and are committed to ensuring the health and safety of its …read more.

FORT WAYNE — Parkview Health is implementing additional precautions to mitigate the spread and impact of the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. All Parkview facilities are implementing tightened visitor restrictions, and the Parkview Cancer Institute is adding procedures to protect cancer patients arriving for treatment or appointments. Additionally, due to the suspension of elective and non-urgent …read more.

WARSAW — The Kosciusko Community YMCA Warsaw and North Webster branches will be closed for all activities effective at 8 p.m Wednesday, March 18, through a tentative date of March 31. “It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we make this decision and though difficult, we believe these actions are necessary to help …read more.

SYRACUSE — Dr. Tom Edington, superintendent of the Wawasee Community School Corporation, submitted the following letter to the community in the midst of fears and concerns about the coronavirus: “We wake up every day to additional news about the coronavirus, including school closures. Wawasee Schools have closed through the end of our spring break, April …read more.

WARSAW — The Kosciusko County Recycling Depot is staying open but has implemented a few changes in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Community drop-off bins in the county are operational and are still being serviced on a regular schedule; however, the recycling depot’s re-use room is closed until further notice. The depot’s facility drop-off is …read more.

WARSAW — Kosciusko County offices continue to remain open at the present time but with certain restrictions in place due to concerns surrounding COVID-19. Kosciusko County Commissioners President Brad Jackson said they are asking that the public conduct county business via phone or email whenever possible and only come to the courthouse if absolutely necessary. …read more.

WARSAW —All three Kosciusko County Commissioners are encouraging everyone to pray for the county and everyone affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many worship services across the U.S. are being cancelled in light of concerns about COVID-19. According to Kosciusko County Commissioner President Brad Jackson, the commissioners are calling for a special countywide day of prayer …read more.

WINONA LAKE — The town council adopted two rights-of-way vacation requests, Tuesday, March 17. The first vacation was adopted for an alley between 911-1007 Sunday Lane. The second was adopted for the south end of Park Avenue. A right-of-way vacation is a type of easement in which a government transfers the right of way of …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — Beginning Wednesday, March 18, to lessen strain on offenders and their loved ones as a result of the COVID-19 virus, Indiana Department of Correction officials worked with the telephone and video service provider to help prisoners keep in contact with those outside prison walls. The short-term policy permits each eligible offender the opportunity …read more.

SYRACUSE — As of Wednesday, March 18, there had been no COVID-19 cases reported in Kosciusko County, but first responders in the area are making sure they are prepared to assist those who may need transportation to a hospital. Mickey Scott, fire chief for the Turkey Creek Fire Territory, explained Kosciusko County Dispatch is screening …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana State Department of Health reported 39 positive cases of coronavirus in the state, March 18. This is an increase of nine from the 30 reported a day earlier. Two deaths related to the virus have been reported as of Wednesday morning. Marion County has 11 positive cases – that’s the most …read more.

  CROMWELL — Although the state and federal governments have begun to limit how many people can gather, the Turkey Creek Regional Sewer District was able to slide in one last meeting before restrictions tighten. The meeting was held Monday, March 16, in the garage bay with plenty of Clorox wipes present, and ample spacing …read more.

WARSAW — While the jobless rate increased slightly in Kosciusko County in January, the rate is still below the national and state average. According to the January 2020 statistics released by the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, Kosciusko County had a 3.1% unemployment rate. This is a .4% increase in unemployment from statistics released for …read more.

MILFORD — Locally owned restaurants, bars and nightclubs abruptly had to make tough decisions after Gov. Eric Holcomb’s announcement Monday, March 16, dining in could no longer be offered. Some responded by closing and not offering either carry-out or delivery, some will offer carry-out only and others will offer both carry-out and delivery. Depending on …read more.

WARSAW — Several schools in Kosciusko County and surrounding areas are offering free meals to students during the school corporations’ closings as a preventative measure against COVID-19. During the closure, Warsaw Community Schools is offering free breakfasts and lunches at seven locations from 11 a.m. to noon Mondays through Fridays. Each morning, staff in WCS’ …read more.

WINONA LAKE — The town council approved a cost-sharing agreement for new equipment in the Winona Lake Police Department’s interview room. According to Winona Lake Police Chief Joe Hawn, the equipment currently used for the interview room is no longer operational. Hawn said he has been in contact with the Kosciusko County prosecutor’s office regarding …read more.

The Syracuse Town Council held its regular monthly meeting Tuesday night, March 17, to handle essential business only.

WARSAW —  Kosciusko County Emergency Management Agency Director Ed Rock received approval to apply for a grant to be used to improve security.  Rock said the grant is to be used to “harden” facilities, making them more resistant to an attack and would be used specifically for the justice building. “The grant was for up …read more.

SYRACUSE — Wawasee Community School Corporation is making some changes to how children ages 18 and under can access free breakfasts and lunches during this time of school closures. Wednesday, March 18, meal pickups will remain the same as the previous two days, at Milford School, North Webster School, and Syracuse School at the main …read more.

GOODLETTSVILLE, TENN. — Dollar General Corporation announced plans to dedicate the first hour of each shopping day to senior shoppers. Dollar General also announced plans to amend store operating hours beginning Tuesday, March 17. There are 11 Dollar General locations in Kosciusko County. Dollar General is strongly encouraging that the first hour of operations each day …read more.

WARSAW — State Representative Dave Wolkins was presented with a plaque recognizing his 32 years of service during the Kosciusko County Commissioners meeting Tuesday, March 17. Commissioner President Brad Jackson and Vice-President Bob Conley each said a few words about Wolkins. Jackson described Wolkins as “always accessible” and said “When you need something done, Dave’s …read more.

WINONA LAKE — Grace College announced the results for the second Grace student tested for COVID-19. On March 15, the college was informed that the COVID-19 tests for one of our students cam back negative. The college was notified earlier March 17 that the test results of the second student were also negative, said a …read more.

PIERCETON — The Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County will be closing its doors to the public as of Wednesday, March 18. The closure is in response to the situation regarding COVID-19, or the coronavirus. Only essential staff and approved volunteers that have been trained will be permitted to enter the shelter building. According to …read more.

WARSAW — Although Kosciusko County offices remain open at this time, county commissioners made a move that will assure that county employees will be paid for scheduled work if an emergency closing is necessary due to the pandemic conditions. Kosciusko County Commissioners approved the change in policy at their meeting Tuesday, March 17. The addition includes …read more.