Quite a crowd gathered at Triton Performing Arts Center at Triton Jr.-Sr. High School on Saturday, Oct. 18, for the annual Triton Junior Miss pageant.

It was the 51st competition to select the Distinguished Young Woman of Triton. Kevin Boyer, master of ceremonies for the evening, took to the microphone to kick off the super hero-themed event.

After a brief introduction, the house lights dimmed, the “Flash Gordon” theme song began playing and the seven contestants and last year’s Junior Miss, Kayleigh Criag – all clad in super hero garb – began racing around the auditorium, capturing villains and dragging them to the stage.

The ladies bound their captives and led them back stage. Again, Commissioner Boyer took to the podium. “I think we’ve got a unique and appropriate theme this year,” Boyer said. “Each one of these contestants is a hero in her own right.”

The contestants returned to the stage wearing formal gowns and deftly executing a choreographed routine. Then on to the “self expression” portion of the contest. Each girl was asked what kind of superhero she would be and why.

The 2015 Triton Junior Miss contestants. Back row, from left: Rachel Chickering, Lillie Nicole Berger, Kylie Michele Mason and Arianna Hope Nelson. Front row, from left: Shelby Ranae Wagoner, Makayla Marie Musilli and Kayla Marie Burkett.

Contestant number one, Kayla Marie Burkett, said she would be Ms. Positive so she could “make people see that there’s positive in every situation.” Makayla Marie Musilli, contestant number two, said, “I would be called The Healer and eliminate all sickness and disease in the world.”

Shelby Ranae Wagoner, contestant number three, said she would be Cloak Woman so that she could disguise all evil with good. Contestant number four, Arianna Hope Nelson, said she would be The Provider and provide food to the underprivileged.

Kylie Michele Mason, contestant number five, said “I would be Minute Woman,” and she would manipulate time to make the good times last longer and the bad times pass quickly. Contestant number six, Lillie Nicole Berger, said, “I would be Enviro Girl, and my superpower would be to influence everybody to be more environmental.” Rachel Chickering, contestant number seven, said, “I would be the Bully Buster.”

The program moved into the talent contest. Each participant prepared a brief entertainment routine.

Wagoner sang “A Thousand Years.” Mason performed a basketball handling routine. Burkett sang “If I Could Make A Living.” Musilli danced to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.”

Berger performed a song with a cup providing percussive accompaniment. Nelson signed to “Amazing Grace My Chains Are Gone.” And Chickering sang Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.” After each contestant performed, Craig provided a special flag routine to “Turn All the Lights Off.”

After a brief intermission, six young men competed in the Triton Junior Mister contest. Three harrowing tests of skill and poise whittled down the contestants until a champion remained.

The 2015 Triton Junior Mister was awarded to a burly, charismatic young man, clad in t-shirt and cargo shorts, known simply as “Nate.” He graciously accepted a gold medal, a $100 scholarship and his name will be added to a trophy alongside past Junior Mister winners.

It was nearly time to crown the 2015 Triton Junior, but before all the pomp and circumstance, Craig took to the podium to say a few words about her experience as Triton Junior Miss the previous year.

“I’ve discovered so much about myself,” Craig said, now a freshman at Indiana University in South Bend. “Everybody was so friendly. I gained 22 new sisters.”

After winning last year, Craig traveled to Kokomo to compete in Indiana’s Distinguished Young Women competition. The 2015 winner will make the same journey for this year’s competition, held on Feb. 19, 20 and 21.

Craig offered some final words of encouragement to this year’s contestants: “To the ladies backstage, may the odds be ever in your favor.” Before awards were presented, Boyer took a moment to honor three women who were integral in organizing the competition.

Tammy Sauer, president of the Triton Junior Miss Board of Directors, Kristen Hoffer, vice president of Triton Junior Miss Board of Directors, and Whitney Ambrose, secretary of Triton Junior Miss Board of Directors, were brought to the stage. The contestants gave them each a bouquet of flowers to thank them for all the support and efforts. Then it was time for the grand finale.

First, a few special awards were presented. Burkett was the Poster Board and Spirit of Junior Miss winner. Wagoner was the Ticket Sales winner. Chickering won for Talent, while Musilli won for Self-Expression.

The Third Runner-Up was Rachael Chickering. Second Runner-Up went to Arianna Nelson, and First Runner-Up was awarded to Makayla Musilli.

Thanks to local sposors, a total of $3,700 in scholarships will be awarded to each contestant. And the winner of the 2015 Triton Junior Miss competition went to – drum roll please – contestant number five, Kylie Mason.

The winners, back row, from left: Rachel Chickering, Makkalya Musilli, Kylie Mason and Arianna Nelson; front row, from left: Kayla Burkett, Shelby Wagoner, Lillie Berger.

On Thursday, Oct. 23, Building 429, a premier Christian music group, is bringing its We Won’t Be Shaken tour to the Warsaw Performing Arts Center. Supporting the group will be Love & the Outcome and Cadence.

For the last few years, Building 429 has been positioning themselves as one of the best acts in the Christian music scene. “Where I Belong,” the single from the group’s 2011 album, Listen to the Sound, was crowned Billboard’s number one Christian song of 2012. Building 429 released their latest record, We Won’t Be Shaken, in May of last year.

“When asked what we were trying to achieve with this record, we thought back to a plaque on our manager’s desk,” says frontman Jason Roy in a statement on the band’s website. “‘What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?’ We felt like that was the perfect mantra of this record.”

“We know who we are better than ever before,” continues drummer Michael Anderson. “Who we are as men, who we are as husbands, who we are as Christ followers and that just pours into the music.”

While the event promises to be a night filled with clean, quality entertainment, it will also support a greater cause. The show is a fund and awareness raiser for Allowing Christ to Shine.

“We’re a nonprofit started in 2011, and we’re based out of Warsaw,” says Clark Shepherd, founder of ACTS and the shows organizer. Shepherd says ACTS provides much needed support to Haiti. His organization has founded two schools and an orphanage in Haiti and also provides other outreach, such as clothing and food.

“It’s great that we can bring these things to the community,” Shepherd says. ACTS is raising money to send 155,520 meals, provided by Feed My Starving Children, to Haiti. Shepherd says shipping costs are $10,000.

This may seem like a lot, but it’s merely 6 cents per meal. “To raise the money, we are asking for 1,000 people to donate $10,” says Shepherd. Donations can be made at allowingchirsttoshine.org or by mailing a check to PO Box 841, Warsaw, IN 46581 – write FMSC in the comment or memo line.

“This concert will help,” says Shepherd. “It’s overwhelming the support we get.”

Tickets for the concert are $25 for VIP, $20 for main floor seats and $10 for balcony seats. Groups of five or more get a $3 per ticket discount. VIP tickets include early entry, a meet and greet with the band and a photo opportunity.

Doors open for VIP ticket holders at 4:45 p.m., VIP experience begins at 5 p.m. The concert begins at 6:30 p.m. Visit allowingchirsttoshine.org to purchase tickets.

Antoine Phillips

At approximately 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, the Warsaw narcotics team converged on a Winona Lake residence, located at 110 N. Union Drive, after several undercover purchases of illegal drugs from individuals at the residence. Narcotics officers arrested several suspects and located 17 grams of cocaine, 11 grams of heroin, a handgun and money. These arrests also led officers to another location, 1748 S. Blue Spruce Road, on the south side of Warsaw, where additional undercover purchases had been made.

Erika Holt

Upon arriving, police performed a traffic stop on a vehicle leaving the residence. A Warsaw Police K9 alerted to the presence of illegal drugs and officers

located two containers of heroin, totaling 22 grams. Several individuals at the residence were taken into custody and a search warrant seized additional drugs. Police believe that the individuals involved are significant drug suppliers in Kosciusko County.

Tremal Curtis

The individuals charged are: Tremal Curtis, 48, Warsaw, arrested for dealing narcotic drugs and possession of narcotic drugs; Erika Holt, 18, Warsaw, arrested for dealing narcotic drugs; Antoine Phillips, 53, Winona Lake, arrested for dealing cocaine; Misty Warren, 37, Winona Lake, arrested for dealing cocaine; Willie Phillips, 49, Warsaw, arrested for possession of cocaine and visiting a common nuisance; Jeremy Blackburn, 28, Warsaw, arrested for visiting a common nuisance; Teresa Deafenbaugh, 51, Winona Lake, arrested for possession of paraphernalia and visiting a common nuisance.

Misty Warren

Two juveniles were also charged with visiting a common nuisance.

All suspects are being held with no bond and many of the charges have been enhanced to a higher level felony due to the quantity of drugs and the presence of a handgun. More arrests may be forthcoming.

Warsaw Narcotics officers were assisted by Warsaw Police patrol officers, Winona Lake Police, Indiana State Police, and the Kosciusko County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. Warsaw Police continue to diligently work to reduce the influence of illegal drug activity in our community.

Any drug tips can be called into the Warsaw Police Department at 574-372-9540.

Surveillance footage of the intruder at Tippecanoe Valley Middle School. (Photo provided by Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department)

Early this morning a break-in occurred at Tippecanoe Valley Middle School. Forced entry was made into the building where the intruder attempted to steal money, prescription medications, and musical instruments from secured areas. Damage was done to a few areas of the school, with the primary damage occurring in the office and nearby areas.

The break-in was discovered by the school’s head custodian, who immediately contacted school officials and law enforcement. To ensure the safety of all students and staff, the entire building was thoroughly searched prior to the start of school by School Resource Officer John Hart and officers of the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department. The school environment is safe and secure and school is operating as normal.

The school’s video surveillance system has provided excellent digital images that will be useful in determining the identity of the intruder. Anyone with information about the break-in is encouraged to contact the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department or Crime Stoppers.

Troy Knefelkamp was sworn in Monday morning as the newest firefighter with the Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory. Shown in front is his son Leighton. In back are Chief Michael Brubaker, Knefelkamp, Nicole Leighton holding Maxton Knefelkamp, Charles Smith and Jeff Grose, board of public works members. (Photo by Deb Patterson)

Troy Knefelkamp takes the oath of office from Charles Smith during the regular board of public works and safety meeting today.

The swearing in of a new firefighter, change in fuel purchase and approval for new and additional equipment were topics at Warsaw Board of Public Works and Safety this morning.

Troy Knefelkamp was sworn in as Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory’s newest firefighter at the start of the meeting. He has completed his probationary training.

A change in fuel delivery and tank usage was presented by Warsaw Police Chief Scott Whitaker. Stating tanks for diesel and gas usage are at the police department, it was felt there were far better options.

Gasoline for all town equipment will be using regular 87 octane gasoline and diesel fuel from Lassus Brothers stations at North Detroit Street and at Parker and US 30, at a cost of $2.731 per gallon and $2.936 per gallon for diesel. An agreement was also approved to purchase diesel from North Central Co-op at a cost of $2.99.

Whitaker noted the desire to go with two companies for diesel provided more options in case immediate needs arise. It was also stated that while North Central Co-op was slightly higher, the grade of diesel is a higher quality. Clear gasoline will be delivered to a specific site, with a location yet to be determined.

Whitaker stated there will be a gas card system for each employee who has a company vehicle. The cards will be vehicle specific. There will also be pin numbers for each card.

During other business approvals were given for:

• Release of a mortgage for a home rehabilitated by Warsaw Housing Authority.
• Purchase of a copier by the Warsaw Parks and Recreation Department at a cost of $5,758.87, plus a $1,200 per year maintenance agreement.
• Purchase, the Department of Public Works, new heating and air conditioning unit from  Quine Freeman at a cost of $28,157.
• Purchase of a new welder for public works from Norhtern Gases & Supplies Inc. for $4,680
• Pay application in the amount of $9,268 on the Husky Trail Project for engineering services, the town’s portion of an 80/20 grant. Right of Way acquisition is expected in the next month with bid letting later in the year.
• Purchase additional smoke detectors, as part of the elevator remodel project, outside the elevator doors, to be connected to the elevator hardware providing safe exit from various floors in the event of a fire: $1,577.70.
• Purchase of a 2015 2500 Crew Ram truck at a cost of $29,762.87 for the Utility Department with the plow to be purchased through the street department’s plow bid process.

Non-financial action included signing an agreement with Warsaw Community Schools to jointly purchase ice melting materials; and allowing the Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory to  apply for a K21 Grant to upgrade three defibrillation units. This grant would request $81,534.

Expenses for travel were also approved for Kip Shuter, Warsaw Police Department, to attend an event planning/security training in late November and for Elizabeth McKinley, park department, to attend the IPRA Conference after the first of the year.

The board also approved the closing of the alley between St. Regis Club and the city building, between noon Saturday, Nov. 1, to midnight, Sunday, Nov. 2, for an outdoor music and food event. Closing of Buffalo Street between Main and Center streets was approved from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, for a visit by Gov. Mike Pence.

(Photo by John Faulkner)

Winona Lake emergency personnel are at the scene of what has been reported as a moped/vehicle accident. The accident is at Poplar and 14th Street.

According to officials the driver of the moped was injured in the accident and is being transported to Kosciusko Community Hospital by Multi-Township EMS.

Winona Lake Police Department and Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department responded to the scene.

More information will be provided when a report becomes available.

Franklin Lewis Engle

On Thursday, Jan. 3, 2013, Kosciusko County Detectives arrested Franklin “Frankie” Lewis Engle, 33, of Warsaw on two preliminary charges of sexual misconduct with a juvenile under the age of 15, both Class B felony charges. Today, a three-day jury trial will begin in Kosciusko County Superior Court I with Judge Duane Huffer to determine Engle’s fate.

The extensive investigation by Kosciusko County detectives led to the arrest of Engle earlier this year. Due to the nature of the crime, detectives declined to divulge too many details of the case to protect the alleged victims, a 14-year-old and a 15-year-old. The alleged incidents reportedly occurred during the spring of 2012.

Engle was booked into the Kosciusko County Jail with a $20,000 bond.

To better assist veterans in the county, the Magical Meadows is starting a new program for veterans, Kosciusko County Commissioners heard Tuesday.

Tammy Stackhouse, founder of Magical Meadows, said the new program, called Warrior Round-Up, kicks off this week. Magical Meadows offers therapeutic horseback riding for children and adults with special needs.

Stackhouse said horseback riding helps people with balance and coordination. “It’s not just a pony ride,” she said. “There’s something special about horses.”

She said the new veterans program is similar to a Horse for Heroes program in New Mexico. Stackhouse said the new program will assist certain veterans, especially those who have sustained post traumatic stress disorder or physical injuries while in combat.

Two 4-H’ers gave a brief presentation at the meeting. This year marks the 100th anniversary of 4-H in Indiana. There are 160,000 children in 4-H in Indiana and all 92 counties have chapters. There are 700 children in 4-H in Kosciusko County and more than 200 adult volunteers.

Two home-school, 4-H students spoke about 4-H. Carolyn Pitt, 15, has been in 4-H for seven years. She has raised animals and conducted various projects while in 4-H. Olivia Johnson has been a 4-H’er for three years and has sold chickens and done general projects.

Open enrollment for 4-H begins Nov. 1. There are also two new 4-H programs starting: Rockets to Rescue and a robotics program.

A property in Lewallen Park, on the east side of Little Tippecanoe Lake, was discussed. Attorney Steve Snyder said he has been working on the case for 16 years.

In 1988, the property, less than an acre, became a public roadway. The property in question was never recorded when it was vacated by county commissioners in December 2002. Since that time, the property has changed hands over the years and has recently been owned by Tom Warner, who has been paying the tax bills. County Attorney Chad Miner suggested quiet title action, which was approved.

A rezoning for Terry and Margaret Likens was approved. The couple wants to rezone their property from agricultural to residential for a one-lot subdivision. The couple’s property, less than an acre, is located at SR 13 and Backwater Road, North Webster.

In highway news, a stop sign ordinance was approved. The intersection of CR 400N and CR 500W will become a four-way stop due to a traffic pattern change. The expansion of a nearby business also prompted the stop signs, making it a much safer intersection. New signs will be installed this week.

KABS third quarter claims report was presented. There were $108,036 in INDOT claims for July through September and 12,307 rides. CDL physicals and annual drivers’ training has been completed, said Kevin Planck, KABS general manager.

Commissioners amended a personnel policy by placing certain county employees, such as those in the sheriff’s department, dispatch center and work release, on salary due to a new time keeping system.

In other news, commissioners:

• signed the 2015 not-for-profit agreements.

• signed the 2015 inter-local agreements for terminal services data.

• appointed Dennis Darr to the drainage board due to the death of Don Goon.

The next meeting is at 9 a.m. Monday, Nov. 3, due to the election. Meetings are in the courthouse in downtown Warsaw.

Parkview leaders today announced the health system will invest $55 million into the Parkview Hospital Randallia campus – the largest healthcare investment in this region since the Parkview Regional Medical Center.

The project will lead to the creation of nearly 150 new jobs and many new services that will compliment Parkview Regional Medical Center and Parkview’s community hospitals in Huntington, Whitley, Noble and LaGrange counties. It will be completed in phases over the next four to five years.

“We’ve made many significant investments into new services and improvements over the last two years as we also carefully evaluated the long term plans for Parkview Hospital Randallia,” said Mike Packnett, president and CEO, Parkview Health. “The demand for care and services at this hospital has exceeded our expectations and many residents continue to choose this location as their preferred source of health care. We’re excited to continue to invest in this campus as we address the needs of our community.”

At the heart of the multi-million dollar investment will be many improvements to the interior and exterior of the facility. On the inside, nearly $30 million will be invested into structural improvements and enhancements. This will allow for many new inpatient and outpatient services to be added and/or expanded upon. There will also be enhancements made to the exterior of the hospital façade and improvements will be made in the way-finding around the campus.

Key investment items include but are not limited to:

• State-of-the-art surgery suites
• Cardiac catheterization lab
• Updated and enhanced Family Birthing Center
• Updated and enhanced inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services
• Expanded critical care services
• Expanded services at Center for Wound Healing
• Expanded services at Center on Aging and Health

“Since the opening of Parkview Regional Medical Center two years ago, we have invested nearly $20 million into this campus. That combined with today’s announcement is $75 million dedicated to meeting the needs of our community through the addition of many expanded or new services,” said Ben Miles, COO, Parkview Hospital and Affiliates. “Randallia is important to us because it’s important to this community. The residents in and around this area continue to choose this facility for their care. We also have new individuals coming to Parkview Hospital Randallia, starting their families at our Family Birthing Center, or establishing their medical care with a new primary care doctor. We look forward to being here, supporting their needs for many years to come.”

Work will begin on the facility almost immediately. There will be a core Parkview Hospital Randallia team focused on the construction project and they will work to share with residents and community leaders key updates, information or milestones. Those interested in following the project can do so by visiting www.parkview.com/parkviewhospitalrandallia.

Source: Parkview Health, Inside INdiana Business

By STACI POE
Legal Assistant to David C. Kolbe

David Kolbe, candidate for Disctrict 22, Indiana House of Representatives, has recieved the endorsement of Mayor Allan Kauffman, Goshen.

In a statement released Oct. 15, Kauffman stated: “I’ve known Attorney David Kolbe since the time I worked for NBS Office Supplies and Equipment and one of our retail stores in Warsaw. But only recently have I come to know him personally. While House district 22 doesn’t reach Goshen, the decisions he make affecting places like Warsaw, Winona Lake, Syracuse and other units of local government will also affect Goshen.

“I trust his judgement and have faith that the decisions he will make as State Representative will be supportive of local control, not only for cities, towns and counties, but also for our public schools and libraries. Moving local decisions to the State Legislature makes no more sense than moving state decisions to the federal government. Please support David Kolbe with your vote Tuesday, Nov. 4.”

Kolbe responded: “I am again humbled and honored to have the endorsement of Mayor Kauffman, a proven local leader. I share his vision for local control of government, schools, and libraries and look forward to advancing that vision in the Indiana House of Representatives.”

Kosciusko County Deputies have arrested a South Bend man involved with yesterday’s early morning burglary of the Tippecanoe Valley Middle School. (see related)

Joseph Luis Stoll

Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Deputies, along with the assistance of the Kosciusko County DTF and South Bend Metro Special Operations Section, arrested Joseph Luis Stoll II, 30, South Bend, shortly before noon on Tuesday, Oct. 21. Stoll has preliminarily been charged with felony theft, along with felony burglary with intent, after allegedly breaking and entering into the Tippecanoe Valley Middle School yesterday. Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department Deputies Chris Anderson and Cpl. Brandon Hepler were able to locate several items associated with the burglary incident inside Stoll’s vehicle, which was located in the parking lot of the Motel 6 along US 933 in the city of South Bend, Ind.

Numerous tips had been provided to the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department within the last 24 hours that assisted deputies in the subsequent arrest. Stoll is currently being held on a $10,000 bond in the Kosciusko County Jail. The Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department was also assisted by the Kosciusko County Prosecutor’s Office during the investigation.

The Kosciusko County Prosecutor’s Office advises that the defendant’s charge is merely an accusation and that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Atwood Fire Department and Multi-Township EMS have just been dispatched to a two-vehicle  accident at West Old Road 30 near CR 800W.

According to a Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department officer at the scene two individuals have been transported to Kosciusko Community Hospital.

More information will be provided when it is available.

Outlined is the proposed tract of ground for a substance abuse addiction rehab facility in Tippecanoe Township. It is to the north of CR 375N and east of CR 400E.

Bill Fawley was a lawyer who started coming in contact with women dealing with substance abuse problems. Eventually he felt a strong desire to help some of the women, enough to resign as a partner in a law firm.

He is now the executive director and founder of All Things New, a not for profit Christian based ministry designed to provide treatment and hope to women struggling with various types of substance abuse addictions.

All Things New is eyeing an approximately 16 acre tract of ground on CR 375N, just east of CR 400E in Tippecanoe Township. Presently it is farmland where soybeans are grown.

The intent is to build a residential rehabilitation facility for women dealing with substance abuse issues. A petition to build the facility was presented to the Kosciusko County Board of Zoning Appeals during its regular monthly meeting Oct. 14 in Warsaw. But the petition was tabled due to a lack of a specific site plan until the Dec. 9 meeting, and there were also several remonstrators living nearby and even as much as a mile or two away who expressed various concerns.

Fawley was interviewed by The Mail-Journal and said the land was chosen because it is currently owned by his father, Max Fawley, who also owns about half of the land immediately surrounding the tract. Bill Fawley lives less than a mile away and grew up in the area, too. “I don’t want to do anything to harm my neighbors,” he said.

“We realize when the two words ‘addiction rehab’ are used, it brings out all sorts of fears,” he said. “We knew no matter where we chose to petition, there would be opposition.” But, he noted, at least a few of the nearby property owners are in support and have no problems with the proposed facility.

Fawley emphasized the facility would house a maximum of 16 women and be voluntary. Women would not “be held against their will” and if they choose to leave, transportation will be provided.

A more detailed site plan is being developed and according to attorney Steve Snyder, representing Fawley, those details will be made available to remonstrators before the December BZA meeting.

Substance abuse is a major problem in the area and, Fawley said, presently there are no residential rehab facilities specifically for women in Kosciusko County, though there is one just across the county line into Elkhart County. He said part of the problem is those with addictions are released and often go back to the same neighborhood and people and end up being arrested again. But a goal of All Things New will be to get residents involved in local churches so they are exposed to new people and a different environment.

He noted the facility would be located as close to the center of the parcel of land as possible and would not be visible from the road, but exact placement is hinging on state regulations concerning placement of the septic system. He added he did go door to door to provide materials to nearby residents before the Oct. 14 meeting.

Concerns Of Remonstrators

Many living nearby said at the BZA meeting they want more details about the proposed facility and are concerned about safety and security. They want to know specifically where the building will be located, its size and how many women will stay in each room.

Another concern is active farmland ceasing to produce crops, though Fawley said the intent is to leave part of the land in farming and possibly to use crops as a buffer to help shield the facility.

But attempts to obtain comments from even a few of the remonstrators against the petition have, for the most part, been unsuccessful. An attorney representing a husband and wife opposed to the petition declined to make any specific comments and instructed his clients to do likewise.

Contact was made by telephone with another remonstrator who indicated she would later provide comments, but she was not heard from again even after a follow-up phone call. An email was received anonymously from a “concerned neighbor” who indicated they would talk to neighbors and provide contact information to The Mail-Journal, but that information was not provided as of press time.

One woman who asked her name not to be used said she felt like the concerns of the neighbors were not taken seriously at the BZA meeting “and if they (All Things New) would have had a detailed site plan, it probably would have been approved.”

Though whether or not property values of nearby homes would be reduced is not clear, having such a facility would not improve the area’s “economic value,” she added. A petition is being circulated among those opposed to get signatures, she said.

During Warsaw Community School Corporation’s monthly board work session, the school board was presented with the previously embargoed school pass rates for the IREAD-3. The information was presented by WCS Chief Academic Officer David Robertson, who presented in the stead of WCS Chief Accountability Officer Dani Barkey.

According to Robertson, the concluding information regarding IREAD-3 test results had been embargoed by the state until recently. The test, which is a literacy test given to third grade students within the district, measures foundational reading standards for students. The data presented by Robertson included students who entered into summer remediation and retesting after not passing the first IREAD test.

According to Robertson, of the eight WCS elementary schools, four schools received a final pass rate of 100 percent. Claypool, which had an initial pass rate of 90 percent reported a 100 percent final pass rate; Harrison reported a first time pass rate of 91 percent with a 100 percent final pass rate; Madison, which reported 84 percent passing after the first test reported a final pass rate of 100 percent; and Washington, which first reported a 97 percent pass rate, reported a final pass rate of 100 percent as well.

Eisenhower reported close to a 100 percent pass rate with 98 percent of students passing initially and 99 percent passing after exemptions and summer remediation. Lincoln Elementary reported a 89 percent pass rate initially with a 98 percent final pass rate.

Jefferson Elementary saw substantial improvements in pass rates with 73 percent of students reported as passing initially and 96 percent of students reported as passing after remediation and exemptions. Robertson, who was the former principal of the school, noted that Jefferson teachers are working hard to embed the IREAD skills into their reading block through implementing weekly reading comprehension checks, creating a language arts success time and by using indicator scores to divide students and work specifically to their needs.

Leesburg Elementary reported similar improvements in scores with 78 percent of students passing initially and 99 percent of students passing after exemptions and remediation in summer school.

The final pass rates took into account “good cause exemption” students. This exemption includes students who are not entirely fluent in english (level 4 or below English level), special education student with an I.E.P. or if they’ve been retained two times previously.

Warsaw Community School Corporation as a whole reported a pass rate of 89 percent after initial IREAD-3 testing. Of the 516 students tested, Robertson noted 459 passed the test the first time. Forty-three students had IEP Exceptions and were recommended to summer school. A total of 46 students completed summer school and the IREAD-3 retake with 37 passing — equaling a pass rate of 80 percent. After exemptions and remediation, the corporation saw a total of 97 percent of students pass the exam.

(EDITOR’S NOTE: While the victims of the sex crime were identified in open court, InkFreeNews has opted not to release the names of victims or their family members.)

It took a little over an hour to seat 12 members of a jury and one alternate Tuesday morning, the start of a three-day jury trial against Franklin L. Engle, 35, Warsaw. The trial is being held in Kosciusko Superior Court 1. Engle has been charged with two counts of sexual misconduct with a minor, both class B felonies.

(See Original Story)

The day concluded at 4:15 p.m. following testimony from witnesses for the state. Mike Miner, deputy prosecuting attorney called to the stand Warsaw Police Det. Brad Kellar, who was a county deputy at the time, and Det. J.D. Ayers, mothers of the two victims and the victims themselves.

The trial resumes this morning at approximately 8:30 a.m.

Kellar described how the investigation began and his involvement. Ayers described the process of interviewing the mothers of both victims, the victims and the suspect.

While the two victims appeared to remain calm on the stand, one mother became emotional during testimony. The other mother’s emotion were displayed after she walked out of the courtroom.

Explicit details of the assaults were heard during testimony.

Events began around May 28, 2012. Both victims attended a family camp-out at their grandparent’s home near Mentone. The first crime involved a 14-year-old being touched inappropriately, having her touch him inappropriately, ending in anal sex.

The second alleged misconduct occurred with a 15-year-old several months later. This alleged crime occurred in the sleeper of Engle’s semitractor, at a truck stop in Gary. Engle was bringing the young teen home from visiting grandparents in Wyoming.

No adult was told of the allegations until questioned by police in the fall of 2012.

The investigation began in November 2012. Engle’s former wife, Ashley, brought disturbing messages to police that she found on several electronic devices. One such message indicated the sender (assumed to be Engle) had sex with relatives. Several other messages, including an alleged conversation with a 12-year-old.

Questioned by Engle’s attorney, Samuel Bolinger, both officers stated it was not verified who sent the messages. Yet testimony was heard that Engle and his former wife were the only ones with access to the computer.

Ayres testified Engle was calm when confronted with accusations. To Ayers this was concerning. His past experience has been innocent suspects would become exited if not mad when confronted.

Mothers of the victims were questioned as to when they became aware of the alleged crime and what they were told. Cross examination by Bolinger focused on their relationships with their daughters, if the daughters had ever fabricated or lied to them and how often their daughters communicated amongst themselves.

One mothers testified she noticed a behavioral change in her daughter, cutting herself off from family, becoming depressed and recently learning her daughter was “cutting” (a form of self-injury by making small cuts on the body).

The victims stated they did not tell any adult because they had felt ashamed.

Conflicting reports regarding some of the events were brought out in testimony by both girls during Bolinger’s questioning.

Indiana State Police Trooper Brandon McBrier followed through on a tip, resulting in the arrest of six individuals Tuesday morning. Five of those individuals have been charged with manufacturing methamphetamine.

The search warrant was served at approximately 10 a.m. at 261 EMS T25 Lane, Leesburg, approximately three homes south of the Tippy Dance Hall.

Searching the residence, police found an active one-pot meth lab, prescription medication, other drugs and paraphernalia.

Arrested for manufacturing methamphetamine and held on $4,000 surety bonds were:

• Kelly Marie Harner, 19, 261 T25 Lane, Leesburg
• Bradley Ray Slone, 27, 302 E. North St., Larwill
• Angela Marie Wilson, 24, 64 EMS W26 Lane, North Webster
• Jason Michael Thorn, 30, 11260 N. Syracuse-Webster Road, Syracuse
• Timothy Alan Shear, 52, 328 N. Mckinley St., Warsaw

Ricky A. Johnson, 34, 7641 W 200N, Wabash, was charged with illegal sale/purchase of ephedrine/pseudo. He was held on $350 cash bond.

According to ISP Bremen District Post Commander Chad Larsh, McBrier gathered information from the tip prior to getting the search warrant.

Indiana State Police were assisted by Indiana Conservation Officers and the Kosciusko County Drug Task Force. The Indiana State Police Clandestine Lab Team also responded.

Syracuse Town Council approved its 2015 budget at its regular monthly meeting Tuesday evening. The total budget is for $3,375,727. Home rule funds, those that are not taxable are $122,500 and the tax levy for the town is $1,739,783.

The council also approved the 2015 salary ordinance.

Brett Konarski of Jones, Petrie Rafinski reported construction is complete at the industrial park and paperwork has been filed with the Economic Development Administration, administering a grant for the project, and Elkhart County, since the property is across county lines.

In the department reports, Henry DeJulia, town manager, requested the council accept the industrial park now that the work has been completed. The council did so. Councilman Bill Musser asked about the plans for distributing the brochure for the park. DeJulia said he plans to send brochures to targeted businesses, the business incubator at the University of Notre Dame and commercial realtors.

NIPSCO completed installing a new pipe on the north side of Brooklyn Street. Paving work was also completed in Oakwood Park.

Police Chief Tony Ciriello reported several security measures in town hall have been installed. He spent $11,570 of $15,000 allocated to him from the cigarette tax fund. He requested spending the remaining $3,000 on body cameras for his officers.

Ciriello showed the council one such camera, explaining the department is trying them. “It works fantastic,” he said. Film from the cams have been submitted as evidence for cases to the prosecutors office. The $3,000 will allow Ciriello to purchase an additional seven cameras, but he needs 10 to cover the reserve officers as well.

After discussion, with Councilman Larry Siegel saying, “I’m just trying to figure out how to get them 10, that’s fantastic.” Ciriello said he could purchase the remaining cameras out of the 2015 equipment budget. Council approved the purchase.

Chad Jonsson, parks superintendent, reported the Harvest Fest was held Oct. 11 at Lakeside Park and was successful. Construction in the expanded fitness room is complete and a few more pieces of equipment are on the way. The haunted house is under construction in Crosson Mill Park and will be open 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Oct. 24-25 and Oct. 31-Nov. 1.

In the public works report, Jeremy Sponseller, public works director, encouraged members of the council to see the improvements in Oakwood Park. Bids on the wastewater treatment plant will be opened Nov. 12.

Council approved spending $2,900 on a set of winter tracks for the skid loader. The tracks will be purchased at Monteith Tire in Syracuse.

The Wawasee Trail Project has approached the street department about partnering on installing sidewalk from SR 13 along Harkless Drive to Palm Drive. The town will provide $25,000 while the trail committee will raise the remaining amount through grants. After discussion the proposal was approved.

Estimates on the costs for the wastewater treatment plant project are due this week.

Julie Kline, clerk-treasurer, reported the clerk’s office will be closed Nov. 12 for an annual training meeting.

Megan McCellan, executive director of the Syracuse-Wawasee Trails Committee, introduced herself and thanked the council for the pedestrian bridge on Harkless Drive.

Melanie Shorthill of Indiana Telephone Network came before the council asking to make a 30 minute presentation on what they have to offer. Kline told her a commitment has been already made to another company.

Tammy Cotton, executive director of the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce, made the council aware of several upcoming events.

Musser reported an open house for newly renovated fire station one will be noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8.

Council President Brian Woody reported he has been working with a company in South Bend regarding establishing a quiet zone through town with the railroad. He requested the town make a commitment so the company could begin a study into the matter. After debate and questions, the council approved committing to wanting a quiet zone, but not spending money on it.

By VINCE ZITO
Deputy Press Secretary, Office of Senator Dan Coats

United States Senator Dan Coats, Republican, announced today that a member of his staff will visit Warsaw from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24.

The staff member will be meeting with local residents and assisting Hoosiers that are experiencing problems with a federal agency.

They will be meeting at the Warsaw Community Public Library in meeting room A. The library is located at 310 E. Main St., Warsaw.

East Washington Street neighbors of two unoccupied properties addressed concerns to the North Webster Town Council during the meeting Tuesday evening. It was held in the North Webster Community Center.

Approaching the council were Larry and Linda Kinsey, Barbara Miller and Jane Garlotte. Armed with photographs of the deterioration and concerned about the lack of maintenance of the properties, they reported they had talked with a representative for the owners and been promised something would be done. “The homes have not been lived in for at least two years and we’ve been told for three years action will be taken and it hasn’t been,” explained Larry Kinsey. “A car has been sitting on flat tires at one of the properties for quite some time too.”

The homes and out buildings are at 316 E. Washington St. and 320 E. Washington St. Kosciusko County tax records show both properties are current on tax payments. The owners of 316 are listed with the county as Young Pilchers with a mailing address of North Elm Grove Drive, Syracuse. Brooke and Brittany L. Thompson own half of 320 with Logan Pilcher et al., owning the other half. The mailing address is the same as for 316.

A representative for the owners was present at the meeting. He was from Meyer and Meyer Construction and said his firm has been contracted for about eight months to tear off the old roof and put on a new one at the 320 address. His work schedule runs about a year out but he estimated work would be finished on the roof by Dec. 1. Another person has been working on the properties cleaning up and grinding fallen branches and trimming trees this week. He has also been hired to remove the car.

The goal as stated by Deb Pilcher Aalbretgse, mother and aunt of the owners, to Meyer and Meyer’s representative was both properties would be fixed up and rented by next spring. Council President Jon Sroufe addressed the neighbors, “Keep us posted. If they aren’t shaped up by next spring, come back and we will revisit the situation.”

Council passed the 2015 budget and Triad Associates, Indianapolis, was hired as the engineer of record for design of the town’s wastewater treatment system. The grant and loan applications for the project are underway and on schedule.

The inter local agreement with Knapp Lake Regional Sewer District was also approved and signed by the council. KLRSD will eventually connect to the North Webster wastewater system at Knapp Lake’s expense.

The town council approved the reappointment of Phil Metcalf as its representative on the North Webster Community Public Library board.

Severn Trent Utilities Manager Mike Noe reported leaf pickup began Oct. 16 and continues. The new snow removal truck will be delivered soon.

“Halloween trick or treat hours are 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31,” reminded Police Chief Greg Church. “Drivers should be on the lookout during the evening and it is suggested that trick or treaters wear reflective clothing.”