The Mail-Journal, Volume 26, Number 26, Milford, Kosciusko County, 12 August 1987 — Page 1

• 1 sesquicentmnial 18371987

The If a o

Milford 658-4111 ■ & Syracuse 457-3666

VOLUME 26

Decision time: August 27 —

Junior high school debate draws crowd, diverse opinions

I ffr MARK WEINSTEIN Staff Writer Final presentations on middle schools in the Wawasee Community School Corporation were presented by the administrative staff members and Citizen’s for Quality Education at Tuesday evening’s school board meeting. The four-hour meeting, held in the high school auditorium, set up the school board’s final decision on Thursday, Aug. 27. Both sides packed powerful presentations. Both sides had the ear of the corporation’s fivemember school board. The Citizen’s for Quality Education, with attorney Steve Snyder representing the organization, urged school board members to maintain community-spirit by maintaining three middle schools. CQE believes that removing children from hometown area’s would be more harmful than good. Snyder raised the fundamental educational question — whether the present issue deals with the locations of new buildings, or style of education. The attorney suggested the style of education should be the question, rather than the former. “When we deal with the style of education — which I have tried to set our proposal on — we must determine what is the solution to the style, versus the physical planned problem," said Snyder. “We need to start with the style of the community." Members of the Citizen’s organization believe in smalltown education. People migrate to smaller towns for a purpose, one being the atmosphere.

a Y w ® Job m 7 i A- HiHJ| PART OF THE CROWD AT THE TUESDAY NIGHT SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

Busy town board meeting at Milford

I By DEB PATTERSON Staff Writer There were few items on the agenda Monday evening for the Milford Town Board members, yet lengthy discussion was held on three matters, with decisions tabled until the September meeting. Discussion at length concerned the new burning ordinance, wording in the sewer ordinance, and a fence at the street department building north of town.

Milford Kiwanians assist in Special Olympics last week Several members of the Milford Kiwanis Club and their wives assisted in the International Special Olympics on the Notre Dame University campus last Wednesday, assisting the Mishawaka Kiwanis Club. Taking part were Don and Nancy Arnold, Aileen and John Dewart and son Kirk, Betty and Bob Hall, Darrell Orn, John Replogle, Bill Little and Donn Kesler. They worked on two events: the standing broad jump in the momingand the softbalf throw in the afternoon.

Consolidation of THE MILFORD MAIL (Est. 1888) and THE SYRACUSE-WAWASEE JOURNAL (Est. 1907) WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12,1987

“I suggest that the proposal of two middle schools is a significant sacrifice of small town atmosphere,” said Snyder. “Once one more item is taken away from a community, one more sense of the community is eliminated.” Fundamental Schools The Citizen’s for Quality Education believe the fundamental style of education rests in community schools. Moving students out of town —for educational reasons — would be moving away from fundamentalism. “Do we progress to the point that we change styles, combine schools, move children away from their communities as an educational process, and thus erode the small town atmosphere that people live here for?” asked Snyder. “I suggest that all of the educational questions that must be addressed be done so in light of the problems with the com munities.” By doing so, Snyder said the important issues — transportation, water and sewage, class sizes, and future population projections would be addressed. “Moving grades six-through eight in areas where there are no communities, would destroy a portion of the community sense that exists,” said Snyder. "We will be creating artificial communities, an educational factory.” Also in the Citizen's proposal, although not presented verbally, is Lynda Eastman’s STEPS program. The basis for this program confronts the sense of small town communities, transportation needs, emergency services, pedestrian traffic, and sewage and water problems. The thrust of the group is status quo. Maintaining the present system has worked, and will continue in the future.

Dennis Wuthrich and Charles Byrd tabled the signing of an ordinance restricting burning in the town, for a clearer definition of an incinerator. Jean Treesh, board president, was absent due to a torn ligament in her foot and the inability to climb steps. Wuthrich presided over the meeting. Bill Leemon, town attorney, presented a four-paragraph ordinance “not limiting burning, but (allowing) burning in the proper type of container.” he stated. It also established specified months for burning leaves and a fine for violation of the ordinance

“Curriculum and instruction are two legs of education,” insisted Dr. Howard Hull, Wawasee Community School’s Assistant Superintendent. “Good, sound, education does not occur unless we are standing firmly on both legs. Our current, well-discussed, recommendation for two middle schools, combining three communities, is the best way to proceed towards good, sound, education.” Strengths Cited Hull cited three strengths to Thornton’s proposal — student grouping, teacher effectiveness by teaching one type of class all day, and additional educational opportunities. “Our mission is alwaysjtp maximize teaching and learning opportunities for all our staff ana all of our children,” insisted Hull, referring to the school corporation’s proposal. “Only a proposal which does this would be right.” Larry Pletcher, a 20-year teacher in Wawasee’s system, agreed with Hull’s strengths to the corporation proposal. The computer coordinator stated three cases of improper class scheduling — all because of school size. In one instance 36 students were forced into the same math class because they were band students. Two other math classes were available, but not at the appropriate time. “With the two school format there will be larger enrollments and more classes will be available,” said Pletcher. “Then, many of these problems can be solved.” Financially, Roger Kryder, Wawasee’s Business Manager, addressed some concerns listed by the Citizen’s for Quality Education. Kryder noted there would be little difference, financially, in building two middle

Wuthrich commented he liked the ordinance the way it was presented but felt it should include a clarification of an incinerator.* Byrd questioned the ability to enforce what is being burned. However, both men agreed 90 percent of the people who burn trash use 55 gallon drums, and suggested provisions be written in the ordinance where these drums can be used providing a specified cover is used to prohibit ashes from flying out. It was also noted the wording in the ordinance prohibits the street department from burning brush and other items hauled to the “dump” on the north edge of town. Wuthrich mentioned provisions should be made for a resolution where residents wishing to burn used lumber or limbs can come to the board for approval. “You know what this will lead to?” asked Wuthrich, “people wanting garbage pick-up.” Monica Bice, clerk-treasurer, commented most towns charge people for trash pick-up with monthly billings and Leemon commented there are numerous sanitation companies available for people to contact and pick up their garbage. (Note: Residents in Syracuse are provided garbage pick-up which is paid

schools in the country than in the city. Concerns with fire insurance, water and sewage, and transportation were highlighted by Kryder. “We feel that the two middle school proposal is the proper method to insure that we' provide the best for our young people,” said Kryder. “Anything less is to compromise our kids and their future.” Syracuse Advisory Council member Carolyn Anderson echoed Kryder’s sentiment. “What is best for one community (school) should be best for all communities,” said Anderson. “The two middle school project meets most of the requirements for what is best for our students.” Thornton also welcomed comments from Pastor Mike Johnson, Syracuse Church of God, and Courtney Blue. Both enthusiastically endorsed the corporation’s proposal. “Regardless of beliefs, we’ve done our best to seek what is best for our children’s education,” insisted Thornton. “We may not all agree with the plan, but I hope we are all builders, not wreckers.” Wawasee’s school board met a 30-day delay, requested by the Wawasee Property Owners Association, head-on at the conclusion of the meeting. After a brief discussion, All board members voiced opposition to the attempt. “Considering all the months — in research — we have spent on this, I think we have prolonged the decision long enough,” said Dave Carey. “If we grant this delay then where do we stop prolonging the decision.” Wawasee School Board officials will meet in a special executive session Monday, Aug. 17, at the central office. The final middle school issue will be announced at the board’s Thursday, Aug. 27 meeting.

through the town’s general fund, generated by taxes) The ordinance, as presented (Continued on page 2) Important EMS meeting A reminder to all Milford residents who live within a sixmile radius: Don’t forget about the very important EMS meeting that will decide the fate of the Milford organization. The meeting will be held Monday, Aug. 17, at 7 p.m. ■lt was reported earlier the meeting would be held in the back of the Milford Community Building. The Milford Lions Club has graciously moved its meeting to the fire station, so the meeting will now be held in the main room of the community building. < Even for those who don’t want to join the Milford EMS, everyone is encouraged to go to the meeting to find out what the Milford Emergency Medical Service is all about. The present EMTs have received a lot of responses and promises from those planning to attend and are optimistic there will be a good turnout.

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FLAG PRESENTED — George Bushong, owner of Bushong’s Barber Shop, the oldest family-owned business in Syracuse and possibly the county, is shown accepting an American Flag from Karen McHugh, assistant to the Northeast Regional Director in the Office of U.S. Senator Dan Quayle. Mrs. McHugh is a former Syracuse resident whose father, Harold “Zeke” Kuhn was Turkey Creek Township Trustee at one time. Her mother, Elizabeth, resides on the east side of Lake Wawasee. The flag, which flew over the White House, was then presented by Bushong to Jim Hughes, Syracuse Town Board president. Hughes stated the flag would fly over the town hall for one week.

Sesquicentennial ends —

Time capsule buried, marker unveiled at Syracuse Sunday

IBy DEBPATTERSON I Staff Writer The American Flag waved gently in the breeze Sunday, Aug. 9, during the closing ceremonies of the Syracuse Sesquicentennial. Approximately 150 people gathered in front of the veterans monument in Syracuse Cemetery for the celebration’s closing and placement of items in the time capsule. The ceremony was then moved to the gravesite of Samuel Crosson, town co-fourider, where a permanent marker was unveiled. Rev. Michael Johnson, pastor of Syracuse Church of God, the oldest church in Syracuse, opened the ceremonies with an invocation followed by members of the Syracuse Cub Scout Pack presenting the colors. The Calvary United Methodist Church Choir, under the direction of Bob Jones, sang the National Anthem. William Beemer, chairman of the sesquicentennial, gave the opening remarks that included portions from letters received by President Ronald Reagan, Governor Robert D. Orr, U.S. Congressman John Hiler, U.S. Senator Dan Quayle, U.S. Senator Richard Lugar, Indiana Senator John Augsburger and Indiana Representative Thames Mauzy. Beemer also introduced the honored guests who included the “Honorable” Ernie Rogers, Sesquicentennial Mayor of Syracuse; Syracuse Town Board President Jim Hughes; Donna Gosey, great-great-great-granddaughter of Crosson; Naomi McFarland, author of the song “Syracuse;” Joann Boyer, creator of the official logo; George Bushong, owner of Bushong’s Barber Shop, the oldest business in Syracuse and possibly in the county; and Karen McHugh, assistant to the northeast regional director in the office of Senator Dan Quayle. Karen McHugh, a former resident of Syracuse and former student at Syracuse High School, commented she wanted to do something for the town when she heard about the sesquicentennial and requested one of the flags that flew over the White House. Her father, known by many as Harold (“Zeke”) Kuhn, was Turkey Creek Township Trustee, and her mother, Elizabeth, still resides near Syracuse. The flag was presented to Bushong, who accepted it on behalf of the Town of Syracuse and in turn presented it to Hughes. Upon receiving the flag, Hughes stared that it will fly over

the town hall, weather permitting, for one week before being retired to the museum. The McFarland family, 12 in all, were present to sing “Syracuse.” Their wife, mother and grandmother had written about her experience and thoughts on the town. Mayor’s Remarks “Mayor” Rogers, a native of Syracuse, deemed it a great pleasure to be asked to share a few remarks on this great occasion. “In reviewing my own years, growing up, getting married, earning a living and raising a family here, I feel I speak for all of us in saying, ‘What better place could we have lived our life than in Syracuse?’ ” He stated it is fitting and proper “we should preserve for future generations items of our era of history and dedicate a memorial to the co-founder, Samuel Crosson. A lesson we have learned in the past few months is that a lot can be accomplished when people believe in an ideal and work together for one common goal.” Rogers challenged the leaders of Syracuse, 50 years from now.

nF ~ '■ / f Dnfl< * di 'Sk\-\ GRAND CHAMPION BARROW - Zach Stookey’i grand champiM barrow was purchased for $4-75 a pound, totalling JI.SSB.7S, by a group of Milford Merchants. Stookey is from Milford. Pictured from left are. Joe Kessie, First National Bank of Warsaw; Dr. A.G. Schafer. Milford Large Animal Clinic; Stookey; 4-H Fair Queen Lisa Kaiser; Kelly Phillips. Milford Farm Bureau Coop; Phil Campbell, Campbell’s IGA; and Denny Sharp. Sharp Hardware. Not pictured are representatives from Maple Leaf Farms and The Mail-Journal. See additional fair photos and lists of winners on pages 13 and 14.

weather permitting, before it is retired to the museum. Frm left are Donna Gosey, great-great-great-granddaughter of Samuel Crosson, town co-founder; Naomi McFarland, author of “Syracuse;” “Honorable” Ernie Rogers; Jack Elam, sesquicentenniai historian; Hughes, (barely visible behind Hughes is Rev. Mike Johnson of the Syracuse Church of God); Bill Beemer, sesquicentennial chairman; Joann Boyer, designer of the sesquicentennial logo; Paula Markley, member of the Ladies of the Round Table; and Dennis McHugh.

in 2037 to come up to the standards this generation set in giving of their time and talent to pay tribute to the town. In his closing remarks, Rogers borrowed words from Mrs. McFarland’s song, “There is a place that I love best, . Syracuse, dear Syracuse, we love you, dear old Syracuse.” Following “Mayor” Roger’s remarks, the honored guests were called upon to place items in the time capsule. Items included a copy of the song “Syracuse,” a logo with Mrs. Boyer’s signature, and a proclamation by the Town Board of Syracuse. Prior to placing the proclamation into the capsule, Hughes read the statement: “Be it hereby proclaimed that the Town Board of Syracuse issues the greatest commendation and appreciation for the time and efforts of the Sesquicentennial Committee, the mayoral candidates, and all other persons in the area who contributed so unselfishly in making the 150th Birthday Celebration such” an overwhelming success.” The proclamation was signed by all town board members. A number of people looked in-

SESnmCENTBUIIM IND T A~ N~A MIT

’ 35C NUMBER 26

side the capsule to view the numerous objects which would be buried. Among the known items include several banners, one each of the souvenirs, newspapers published during the celebration, parade entries and photos taken by the judges, a book from the Wawasee Property Owners Association, telephone book, year book, two video tapes of the events, and various envelopes with items for the future residents of Syracuse. A list of items in the capsule was included in the vault, and another list will be made available for the museum. Dedication Jack Elam, historian for the sesquicentennial, presented a brief history of the town cofounder prior to the unveiling of the memorial to Crosson. Elam stated Crosson, a miller by trade, possibly attended a primitive country school and many records indicated he could read, write, and sign his name, an accomplishment to be proud of being raised in the backwoods settlement in Eastern Ohio. (Continued on page 2)