A tanned lifeguard lounging atop a tall seat overlooking a crowded beach has been a visionary staple of summer in America for decades, but that might soon be a part of history.

WARSAW — For the better part of the evening Friday, Dec. 6, the city of Warsaw will provide a winter wonderland to Yuletide revelers, courtesy of the city’s First Friday celebration. The event, dubbed “Hometown Holly Days,” will run from 5 to 9 p.m. and will feature a variety of seasonal activities in Central Park …read more.

WARSAW — The Kosciusko County Historical Society will host its 54th annual dinner at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 16, at the Center Lake Pavilion in Warsaw. All World War II veterans and a companion are invited to attend the dinner. The event will commemorate the 75th anniversary of D-Day and will feature a presentation by …read more.

WARSAW — Members of the 9/11 Memorial Remembrance Committee will host its 18th commemoration of the tragedies of Sept. 11, 2001, at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11, at Center Lake Pavilion. The featured speaker this year is Tinisha Weigelt, district director for Congressman Jim Banks, who represents a part of Kosciusko County in Washington, D.C. …read more.

WARSAW — Call ‘em what you will — frankfurters, wieners, red hots, coneys, tube steaks — hot dogs are the No. 1 mainstay of summertime cuisine. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, Americans down 7 billion hot dogs, 150 million on the Fourth of July alone. Annually, we consume 20 billion of them, averaging 70 …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — Organizations in Kosciusko County have received more than $315,000 in grants to fight aquatic invasive plants and improve waterways. The funds were recently awarded by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Director Cameron F. Clark through the Lake and River Enhancement program. Invasive aquatic vegetation management grants were awarded to the Barbee Lakes …read more.

WARSAW — With temperatures in the 20s and cloudy skies, locals braved the chilly waters of Warsaw’s Center Lake today, Feb. 16, to raise money for Special Olympics Indiana. More than 50 people, from individuals and pairs to groups decked out in “cool” ice cube costumes, participated in the annual Polar Plunge. This is the …read more.

WARSAW — Thanks to a grant from the Kosciusko County Community Foundation, the city of Warsaw Parks & Recreation Department now has four active iStrike Lightning Detection systems. These systems are located at both Center and Pike Lake beaches, the Pike Lake Campground and Central Park.  Although each alarm system is positioned at a different …read more.

WARSAW — Mark your calendars for Tuesday, Sept. 11, for an abbreviated county-wide 9/11 service. Mike Cox, Kosciusko County 9/11 Remembrance Planning Committee member, announced the abbreviated service will be held at 6:30 p.m. that day, rain or shine, at the 9/11 memorial in Central Park, Warsaw. The program will include a presentation of colors, …read more.

WARSAW — Approximately 25 children built sand castles, played games and stayed cool during the annual Beach Bash event hosted by the Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department Tuesday, Aug. 7. With temperatures in the 80s, kids and parents alike beat the heat by staying cool at Center Lake. The luau-themed party was held at the …read more.

WARSAW — Wawasee High School Gone Boarding students got some tips from the pros ahead of the Supra Boats Pro Wakeboard Tour finale Friday.

WARSAW — Officers with the Warsaw Police Department responded to a report of an overturned boat at Center Lake around 10:20 a.m. Monday, Aug. 6. A witness said a boat overturned in the lake and began sinking. The two subjects in the boat were both wearing life jackets and did not require medical attention. After …read more.

WARSAW — Due to staff availability, this Sunday, Aug. 5, will be the last day for lifeguards at Center Lake. Both Pike and Center Lake Beaches will be “swim at your own risk” through Labor Day. The Warsaw Parks Department appreciates the understanding from the public this summer season with the abbreviated beach hours. For …read more.

KOSCIUSKO — Locals stayed cool during the recent heat advisory by taking advantage of the many lakes in the area. Over the weekend, temperatures rose to between 90 and 95 degrees in Kosciusko County. A cooling center was opened yesterday, June 18, at the Pete Thorn Center gymnasium for those seeking to escape the extreme …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — Department of Natural Resources Division of Fish and Wildlife grants totaling nearly $660,000 have been awarded to fight invasive aquatic plants in the state’s lakes. Organizations in Kosciusko County received $143,200 to fight the invasive plants. Kosciusko County received grants for 10 projects involving 19 lakes. Local sponsors will share at least 20 …read more.

WARSAW — Summer in Kosciusko County usually means residents and visitors flocking to one of the many beaches. When it comes to fun in the sun one of most important topics for Sheila Wieringa, Warsaw Parks Department recreation director, is water safety.

KOSCIUSKO COUNTY — Who said there’s no such thing as a free lunch? Warsaw Community Schools is offering free summer meals to children ages 1 to 18 Monday through Friday at two area parks. Free lunches will take place at Winona Lake Park and Center Lake Park (Bixler pavilion area) in Warsaw. The meals will …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — Three Kosciusko County lakes are experiencing a reduction in invasive Eurasian watermilfoil this spring. Center, Big Chapman and Webster lakes have had recurring problems with Eurasian watermilfoil in past years. EWM is present in most Indiana lakes. It often grows so densely it creates a nuisance for boating and fishing. It also can …read more.

WARSAW -Mike McCulloch won his third straight Warsaw Aqua Mile event this past weekend at Center Lake in Warsaw.

NORTH WEBSTER — Swans and what to do about them was discussed at length this morning during the Barbee Lakes Property Owners Association meeting, held this morning, May 20, at the North Webster Community Center. Kathryn Schmidt, president of the association, opened the discussion saying several residents had posted their displeasure about euthanizing the birds …read more.

WARSAW — At approximately 5:45 a.m. Sunday, April 16, emergency personnel were called to Center Lake, Warsaw, due to report of a vehicle being driven into the lake. Warsaw Police Department and Lutheran EMS were on scene. It is believed that the driver fell asleep behind the wheel, went over the railroad tracks on Lyons …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Department of Natural Resources grants, totaling more than $585,000, will be used to fight invasive aquatic plants in Indiana’s lakes. Some of those funds will be utilized in area lakes.

WARSAW — Preliminary studies for an ice rink and park offices at Center Lake Park were signed Monday morning, Oct. 10, during the Warsaw Board of Public Works and Safety meeting. The study will cost approximately $15,000. The contract was signed with MAI Architects, Claypool. Larry Plummer, parks superintendent, stated this has been in the …read more.

WARSAW — In the midst of summer’s heat, Special Olympic coordinators’ thoughts are already turning to colder weather as they plan the 2017 Polar Plunge fundraiser. Event organizers are already seeking groups brave enough to take the plunge. According to Special Olympics Northwest Regional Manger Buzz Lail, last year’s Warsaw event drew 75 people. This year, the …read more.

WARSAW — Highlights from the Inaugural Crawfish Adventure Race at the Northern Indiana Lakes Festival.

WARSAW — Free lunches are being offered in area parks starting yesterday, Monday, June 6, and continuing through Friday, July 29. “We’re super excited about it,” said Stacie Light, assistant director of Food Services for Warsaw Community Schools. “We love going in there and seeing the kids have fun and get a nutritious meal,” she continued. …read more.

WARSAW — Kids and their families fished for fun Saturday morning, June 4, at Center Lake for the annual Kids’ Fishing Derby. Approximately 35 participants signed up to try their hand at catching the biggest fish of the day. Judging took place in four age groups, including age 2-4, 5-8, 9-12 and 13-26. There was …read more.

WARSAW — There will be a pride picnic from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 4, at Nye Youth Cabin on Center Lake. All ages are welcome and the event will be held come rain or shine. Bring a well-labeled dish to share with everyone. The even is sponsored by the Warsaw LGBT & …read more.

  WARSAW— An introductory Walking Program class for all ages and abilities, who enjoy being outdoors will take place every Wednesday from 12:10 p.m. to 12:50 p.m. through August 31. Each class is FREE, will take walkers on a safe and enjoyable walking route around Central Lake, Central Park and the scenic downtown area and …read more.

WARSAW — Both Pike and Center Lake beaches will open the year from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. this Saturday, May 28. Guarded hours during the week are 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, contact the Parks and Recreation Department by email at [email protected], or call the office at (574) 372-9554. The office …read more.

WARSAW – The Aqua Mile returns to the waters of Center Lake for a Saturday, June 11, competition.

By EILEEN OAKS Outreach And Marketing Specialist, The Watershed Foundation WARSAW — The Clean Waters Partnership steering committee will be meeting at 7 a.m. Tuesday, April 12, at the Kosciusko County Chamber of Commerce, 523 S. Buffalo St. Warsaw. The steering committee is working on developing a watershed management plan to address water quality concerns …read more.

By 1ST SGT. CHAD HILL Public Information Officer, Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department WARSAW — A Warsaw man is in jail today after leading police on an early morning pursuit that resulted in his vehicle being driven into Center Lake. Early this morning, at approximately 3:20 a.m., a Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department deputy had observed a …read more.

WARSAW — Residents of Warsaw and the surrounding communities are taking the cold weather literally on Saturday, Feb. 20, as they brave the wintry waters once again for the 2016 Polar Plunge, benefiting Special Olympics Indiana. On-site registration (including walk-ups) will be from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Center Lake Pavilion, 117 E. Canal St., …read more.

By LYN CRIGHTON Executive Director, The Watershed Foundation NORTH WEBSTER — The Clean Waters Partnership, an extension of The Watershed Foundation, formerly The Tippecanoe Watershed Foundation, recently received a $200,000 grant from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. Beginning at Lake Tippecanoe, the Tippecanoe River and its tributaries flow through the center of Kosciusko County. …read more.

WARSAW — Members of Warsaw and surrounding communities are taking the cold weather to heart on Saturday, Feb. 20, as they brave the wintery waters for the second-time, at the 2016 Polar Plunge, benefiting Special Olympics Indiana. On-site registration (including walk-ups) will be from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., at the Center Lake Pavilion, located …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 — On Sept. 11, men, women and children alike will band together in memory of the tragic attack on the United States in 2001 that claimed the lives of many. Every year since this tragedy, Kosciusko County has held a tribute in Warsaw to commemorate the losses and heroism that occurred on that day. …read more.

By ELIZABETH MCKINLEY, Warsaw Parks & Recreation Department Director The city of Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department will have lifeguards on duty at both Pike and Center lakes this holiday weekend from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, and from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday. The last official day that the city parks department …read more.

By LIZ MCKINLEY, Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department WARSAW — The city of Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department is proud to present the Family Carnival, an event for the entire family, from 6-9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, in Central Park. Enjoy children’s entertainment, games, activities, face painting, a dunk tank and more. Also, sign-up the kids …read more.

The city of Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department will offer free swimming lessons at Center Lake. Registration is required at least one week prior to the start of each session. Those interested are asked to only register if they plan to attend most or all of the session dates. Each session is limited to 10 …read more.

Warsaw Parks & Recreation Department will unfortunately have to cancel the annual Girls Night Out event that was planned for this Tuesday, June 23, at Center Lake Pavilion. All paid registrations will be processed for refund and mailed back to each participant. If anyone has a question, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at (574) 372-9554. Other …read more.

The weather was great for the final day of the Seventh Annual Northern Indiana Lakes Festival. The event concluded at Center Lake, Warsaw, with numerous activities teaching the importance of protecting lakes and streams while having fun. Dr. Nate Bosch, director of the Center for Lakes & Streams, stated everything went perfectly as planned with …read more.

Warsaw Board of Public Works and Safety approved a storm drain art project. Theresa Sailor, stormwater coordinator, presented the proposal this morning. It was met with excitement and unanimous approval. The memorandum of understanding, approved by the board, is with Grace College and the Center for Lakes & Streams. The memorandum outlines the collaboration efforts …read more.

By MADISSON HEINL Communications Specialist, Center For Lakes & Streams The annual Northern Indiana Lakes Festival is this June 5-20. This year’s lakes festival will be a two-week event with educational workshops and recreational activities scheduled around Kosciusko county. The Lakes Festival is an annual celebration of our local lakes and waterways. The most popular …read more.

Redwood Firewood Grill recently moved to their new location in the former “Aloha Bar” building on North Detroit Street overlooking Center Lake in Warsaw and I was able to secure a reservation for opening night. With few hiccups, the experience was enjoyable and old and new fans alike are sure to be enamored with the …read more.

UPDATE: Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department announces a change to the holiday weekend schedule for local beaches. Pike Lake Beach will be open, but no lifeguards will be on duty. Lifeguards will, however, be on duty at Center Lake Beach from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Enjoy some sand and sunshine …read more.

The Center for Lakes and Streams, with funding from the K21 Health Foundation, private donors and Grace College, released the results of a study investigating the causes of elevated E. coli levels at the public swimming beaches at Center and Pike lakes. A previous study by the center from 2012 showed that the public swimming …read more.

Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department will host free canoeing at Center Lake on 11 a.m. to 4 p.m Saturday, July 12. Canoes are available for community use. They are first-come, first-served. All equipment and life vests are provided for participants. Participants will be briefed on safety measures prior to canoeing and will be supervised by …read more.

Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department will host free canoeing at Center Lake from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, June 24. Canoes are available for community use and they are first-come, first-served. All equipment and life vests are provided for participants.  Participants will be briefed on safety measures prior to canoeing and will be supervised …read more.

[weaver_youtube m7UqSWqykPk rel=0] The driver of a car that was found underwater in Center Lake Wednesday morning was located “safe at home,” but was brought to the Warsaw Police Department for voluntary questioning. At just about 8 a.m., a park employee noticed the vehicle in the water and called 911. The vehicle, a Subaru Forester with …read more.

[weaver_youtube m7UqSWqykPk rel=0] The driver of a car that was found underwater in Center Lake this morning was located “safe at home,” but was brought to the Warsaw Police Department for questioning. That is according to WPD Lt. Kip Shuter who was on scene at the public access site this morning when the vehicle was pulled …read more.

Warsaw Parks & Recreation Department is hosting its annual Kids Fishing Derby once again. It will be held at Municipal Park (Center Lake Beach), this Saturday, May 31. The program will begin at 8 a.m. and finish at 11:30 a.m. The event is completely free and open to any child ages 3 years to 16 …read more.

Center Lake and Pike Lake beaches in Warsaw will open for the season beginning Saturday. This weekend is also Memorial Day weekend which marks the official start of the summer season. Lifeguards hours for the Warsaw beaches will be from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays and from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. weekends, weather …read more.

[weaver_youtube F4a8mKju27E rel=0] People of all ages flocked to Center Lake Park today for the sixth annual Play It Safe Family Safety Day hosted by Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory and KREMC. The event, which saw over 3,000 people last year, featured hands-on learning activities, presentations, games and make-and-tells free of charge to participants. The event truly was …read more.

Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department will host free Community Canoeing from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, July 23, at Center Lake Beach. Canoes and equipment will be available for the public to use during the event. Canoes are first-come, first-served and may be used in timed increments.  No registration is required, however, each participant …read more.

Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department will host free Community Canoeing from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 13 at Center Lake Beach. Canoes and equipment will be available to use. Canoes will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis and may be used in timed increments. No registration is required; however, each participant must …read more.

Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department will host free Community Canoeing from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, June 25, at Center Lake Beach. Canoes and equipment will be available to use during the event. Canoes are granted on a “first-come, first-served” basis and may be used in timed increments.  No registration is required, however, each …read more.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43y1-rBYXyU] Parents line up with their children at Bixler Park on Center Lake in Warsaw to receive a free, nutritional packed lunch provided by Warsaw Community Schools.(photo by Alyssa Richardson) Whoever said you cannot receive anything in life for free may not be entirely correct. Warsaw Community Schools, Wawasee Community School Corporation and Tippecanoe …read more.

Children and adults can get close to and even touch some amazing animals at the Silly Safaris animal show coming to the the Northern Indiana Lakes Festival this weekend. A Silly Safaris show is a high-energy and theatrical performance. Children and volunteers join the animals on-stage in games and various fun activities. Each animal, game …read more.

(left to right) Claire Hollowell, 5, Corbin Hollowell, 8, and Dalton Ousley, 9, enjoy a day at Kiddieland Park, on Center Lake in Warsaw.(photo by Alyssa Richardson) As weather begins to warm up and the summer sun begins to peek through Kosciusko County skies, residents of Warsaw are beginning to take to the beach for a …read more.

The Builders Association of Kosciusko-Fulton Counties is holding a Bingo fundraiser Thursday at Center Lake Pavilion in Warsaw to support the Women’s Council. Enjoy a sandwich, chips, slaw, drink and cookies and play Bingo with a chance to win prizes. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Doors open at 5:45 p.m. …read more.

(NOTE: Winona Lake, Center Lake and Syracuse beaches were all closed at approximately 2:30 p.m. Tuesday due to high E. coli counts. The Kosciusko County Health Department says all beached are re-opened today.) The following results are from water samples taken from each public beach in Kosciusko County. Each reading represents the most probable number …read more.

The Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department has planned several events for the next week and is seeking vendors for future festivals. Cultural Vendors Sought for Culture Fest on September 22 Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department will host Culture Fest, a festival to explore and celebrate a variety of cultures, on Saturday, September 22 from 3:00 …read more.

This weekend is the Northern Indiana Lakes Festival in Winona Lake and Warsaw, and there’s plenty of fun and activities planned. The festival is a celebration of water and is used to increase awareness of and appreciation for our may county lakes through education, experience, fun and celebration. This year’s Lakes Festival is Saturday and …read more.