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.

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.

WARSAW – US Rep. Jim Banks will host a Facebook Live town hall at 10 a.m. Friday, March 20, to answer coronavirus-related questions. Indiana’s Third District Congressman and his staff will be joined by New Haven Mayor Steven McMichael. In addition to answering questions, the Congressman will provide an update on coronavirus response efforts at …read more.

WARSAW – Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office is putting forth measures to maintain the health and safety of our staff and community during the coronavirus outbreak. The sheriff’s office issued the following statement Thursday night, March 19: At this time, patrol operations remain fully functional; with precautionary measures in place. Deputies are still responding to incidents …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 — 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 — 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.

NORTH WEBSTER – North Webster Town Hall will be closed to the public until further notice in light of the coronavirus. The clerk’s office will be staffed Monday through Thursday from 8:30-4:30 and can be reached at (574) 834-7894. Wastewater payments can be made by mail, dropoff box on the south side of the building …read more.

WARSAW – Local food pantries are rising to meet the challenges presented by the unprecedented coronavirus epidemic while maintaining a reserve of flexibility should circumstances change. With an expected spike in unemployment, pantries are expecting to see a rise in calls for assistance. As of now, all local food pantries are remaining open, some with …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.

WARSAW – Here are several more event changes as a result of the coronavirus crisis: A meet and greet with candidate Craig Snow, scheduled for 7 a.m. Wednesday, March 18, morning has been canceled. Snow is a candidate running for State House District 18. Eastlake Skating Center will be closed until at least Thursday, April …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.

WINONA LAKE — Winona Lake Clerk-Treasurer Kent Adams released a statement outlining the steps the town is taking amidst concern regarding the spread of COVID-19. Due to COVID-19 safety concerns, the Town Hall has decided to take precautionary measures to reduce exposure for our employees and the public. The Town Hall will be closed to …read more.

NAPPANEE – NorthWood didn’t even get a chance to make a head start to regional, seeing its boys basketball dreams be put on hold…for now.

INDIANAPOLIS —The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) announced on Tuesday, March 17, the second Indiana death from COVID-19. According to a press release on the ISDH website, the patient was a Johnson County adult over age 60 who had been hospitalized. No further information about the patient will be released due to privacy laws. …read more.

WASHINGTON — Despite widespread bipartisan support for a coronavirus relief package passed by lawmakers after midnight Saturday morning, northeast Indiana Rep. Jim Banks, R-Columbia City, was one of 40 lawmakers to cast a “no vote.” The aid package will provide free testing, sick pay for workers, enhanced unemployment benefits and bolstered food programs. Despite contentious …read more.

WARSAW – Restauranteurs and customers alike in Warsaw expressed some support for the temporary state-wide closing of bars and eateries Monday in the growing effort to slow down the spread of the coronavirus. Word spread quickly Monday morning, March 16, at several Warsaw eateries after Gov. Holcomb issued new directives to close bars, nightclubs and …read more.

WARSAW – The city of Warsaw will close all city buildings beginning Wednesday, March 18, as officials consider new ways to slow the spread of coronavirus, said Mayor Joe Thallemer. The restrictions, which also include a ban on non-essential travel for city workers, was announced Monday night at the regular city council meeting, which took …read more.

TVHS Principal Brandon Kresca shows off the new graduation gowns voted on by the senior class.   AKRON — During the Tippecanoe Valley School Board meeting held tonight, March 16, a COVID-19 Employee Compensation Resolution was passed. Due to the recent concern for the coronavirus, Tippecanoe Valley schools will take advantage of a combination of …read more.

WARSAW — To protect the health of patrons and staff, Warsaw Community Public Library will close the library starting tomorrow, March 17, through April 13. This includes the cancellation of programs occurring inside and outside of the building, and the closing of study rooms and meeting rooms through May 4. Currently, the library plans to …read more.

WARSAW — Meals are continuing to be delivered to seniors through the mobile meals program at Kosciusko Community Senior Services, with some minor changes implemented due to coronavirus concerns.   Approximately 100 physician-approved meals are delivered each day, Monday through Friday, throughout the county by KCSS. “We have implemented what we call Stop and Drop,” …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb and the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) announced on Monday, March 16, the first Indiana death from COVID-19. The patient was a Marion County adult. “A family today is suffering the ultimate loss due to COVID-19, and this sadly underscores how severe the virus can be – …read more.

KANSAS CITY, MO. – With new CDC regulations coming down on gathering limits, the NAIA was forced to cancel its spring sports season Monday afternoon.

INDIANAPOLIS — Gov. Eric J. Holcomb has announced additional efforts in a continuing effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus. The governor and other state officials will conduct a COVID-19 briefing today at 2:30 p.m. in the south atrium of the Indiana Statehouse with the latest updates on testing and cases. Here are additional …read more.

TERRE HAUTE – Indiana is closing its licensed casinos and racing operations for at least 14 days beginning at 6 a.m. Monday. The change is a result of the coronavirus pandemic. The Indiana Gaming Commission posted and distributed this statement Saturday: “Based on changing circumstances and in the interest of public health, Indiana licensed gaming …read more.

FORT WAYNE — In its commitment to the health and safety of patients, visitors, co-workers and the community, Parkview Health is implementing multiple precautionary measures across its facilities to mitigate the impact of novel coronavirus (COVID-19). “Parkview is committed to doing everything we can to mitigate the impact of COVID-19,” said Jeffrey Boord, MD, MPH, …read more.

MUNCIE – Chesterton edged rival Valparaiso to claim its third straight IHSAA Gymnastics State Championship Saturday afternoon at an empty Worthen Arena at Ball State University.

If you think consuming news about coronavirus is fatiguing, try writing about it. Or, more accurately, keeping up with all the developments. The last few days of changing circumstances as the impact of the pandemic seeps into the local landscape has been something to behold. Without too much navel-gazing and introspection, I can tell you …read more.

WARSAW – Mary Kester looked down the long, empty portion of the aisle reserved for toilet paper and then grabbed a package of napkins instead. “It’s definitely going to be a backup,” Kester said in half jest. “This is crazy.” Mary and her husband, Greg, found themselves at Owen’s Supermarket early Friday evening, March 13, …read more.

WARSAW – Two more school districts – Tippecanoe Valley and Whitko – are ceasing classes out of concern for the coronavirus. Warsaw, Wawasee, Triton and Manchester school districts announced closure plans earlier Friday, March 13. Tippecanoe Valley outlined a details schedule for the next few weeks. The school district issued the following statement: Tippecanoe Valley …read more.

EDITOR’S NOTE: A Spanish version of this press release is available toward the bottom. WARSAW – One day after taking several steps to eliminate exposure to the coronavirus, Warsaw Schools Corporation announced classes have been canceled. On Friday, March 13, Dr. David Hoffert announced that Warsaw Community Schools will close beginning Monday, March 16,  and …read more.

WARSAW — The Indiana Department of Health updates statistics on the spread of coronavirus each day. As of Friday morning, March 13, the state reported 73 people have been tested and 12 cases were confirmed. There wasn’t a change from data provided for Thursday, March 12. The numbers are based on figures from the state …read more.

WARSAW — Three area hospitals have released statements regarding preventative measures and tests for COVID-19, or the coronavirus. Kosciusko Community Hospital says staff are taking proactive steps to prepare for the protection of patients, caregivers and the community while monitoring ongoing COVID-19 updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “We are using the …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS – The IHSAA has postponed the boys basketball regional tournaments across the state. Gymnastics state will carry on as scheduled.

Editor’s note: This story has been updated from earlier today to include new notices. WARSAW — The following organizations in Kosciusko County and surrounding areas have announced event cancellations and postponements as a result of concerns over coronavirus: Annual REMC Cooperative Meeting Due to concerns regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic, and following the recommendation of …read more.

AVON, Ohio – The Crossroads League announced on Friday that all spring sports competitions will be suspended until at least April 1.

WINONA LAKE — Grace College announced on Friday, March 13, the school’s decision to cancel on-campus classes and to temporarily close the residence halls for the next four weeks due to COVID-19 (coronavirus.). According to a statement from Grace College’s website, the school has had two students who have been tested for COVID-19, though neither …read more.

WARSAW — The Parkview Warsaw YMCA is closely monitoring information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Indiana Department of Health regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19).and The YMCA is also in contact with the local Kosciusko County Health Department, said a news release from the Parkview Warsaw YMCA. As with any newly …read more.

SYRACUSE – Wawasee High School announced Thursday night via its Twitter account it is halting athletic competition through April 2.

WINONA LAKE – The NCCAA in conjunction with Grace College is canceling the entirety of the Division I Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships.

 FORT WAYNE — While the Centers for Disease Control still considers COVID-19 to be a low threat to the general American public, VA Northern Indiana Health Care System Fort Wayne Campus is paying special attention to it.    Effective March 12, the Fort Wayne VA Campus will have a single point of entry to the …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — Governor Eric Holcomb recently announced additional steps the state will take to reduce the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Indiana. As of noon Thursday, March 12, the state has 12 citizens who have tested presumptively positive for COVID-19. “This is a time when we must do all we can to reduce the …read more.

ROSEMONT, Ill. – The Big Ten Conference shut down sports for the remainder of the 2019-20 calendar year, ending all winter and spring sports including tournaments.

Editor’s Note: This article has been updated with further cancellation announcements. The most recent is at the top. WARSAW — The following organizations in Kosciusko County and surrounding areas announced event cancellations as a result of concerns over coronavirus: The Lerner Theatre All events for the month of March at The Lerner Theatre have been …read more.

WINONA LAKE — Grace College issued a statement Wednesday night saying the campus is closely monitoring developments of the coronavirus. A response team has been assembled on campus to continually assess the situation, develop response plans and coordinate communication. Grace College administrators are in regular contact with local and state health departments, the Centers for …read more.

WARSAW — The Kosciusko County Prosecuting Attorneys Office, Child Support Division, is implementing a new procedure in response to the Center for Disease Control’s directive of limiting personal contact due to the Coronavirus COVID-19.  On most Fridays, the Child Support Division has between 50 and 100 people required to personally appear for Court hearings at …read more.

WARSAW – The city of Warsaw has issued a statement from Mayor Joe Thallemer, who said the potential pandemic spread of the coronavirus “is very real.” Thallemer’s statement continued: Common sense practices, including a thorough washing of hands, staying home when not feeling well and promptly seeking medical care when indicated, will go a long …read more.

FORT WAYNE — US Rep. Jim Banks (IN-03) has updated his website to include resources related to the coronavirus. The update comes after the Indiana Department of Health confirmed two cases of coronavirus in the state last week, said a news release from the office of Rep. Banks. Resources include: The latest information on coronavirus …read more.

INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) has identified the second presumptive positive case of COVID-19 in the state on Sunday, March 8. The patient, an adult who resides in Hendricks County, is in isolation with mild symptoms and is not hospitalized at this time. Hendricks County is located to the west of …read more.

WARSAW — Kosciusko County has thus far not been affected by the incipient spread of coronavirus as it moves across parts of the globe. As of Tuesday, March 3, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 60 cases of COVID-19 from 12 states. Twenty-two of those are travel-related; eleven are believed to be …read more.

WARSAW — If you’re in the market for surgical masks, you may not have much luck — at least locally. But the demand for the masks appears to be misdirected. Heightened fears related to the novel coronavirus and the potential for a global pandemic has led to a worldwide shortage of medical masks and respirators …read more.

WARSAW — The Indiana State Department of Health is closely monitoring an outbreak of the 2019 novel (new) coronavirus or 2019-nCoV. This new respiratory virus was first identified in the city of Wuhan in China’s Hubei Province and continues to infect people in China and around the world, including the United States. ISDH is working …read more.