The Mail-Journal, Volume 28, Number 41, Milford, Kosciusko County, 22 November 1989 — Page 4

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THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wed., November 22,1989

Editorial

A time to be thankful Thanksgiving 1989 brings us a number of blessings and causes, both locally and throughout the world, for which we should give thanks. Remembering those closest to us is foremost. In addition to the benefits we reap from our families, friends and neighbors, we, in Kosciusko County enjoy a booming economy. For most of us, fears of homelessness and poverty are not a reality. By and large, Kosciusko County is also a safe place to live. Unfortunately, several weeks ago, that was not the case for Melvin Williams of Syracuse. A victim of a brutal stabbing, he is now on the mend and at home with his family. The whole community joins in giving thanks for his recovery. As a nation, despite genuine problems, we in the United States still enjoy great freedom. Across the globe, the message of freedom is spreading like wildfire — toppling hard line Communist regimes in eastern Europe and bringing about sweeping reforms. The tumbling of the Berlin Wall, an act with enormous implications for the entire world, is cause for both thanks and rejoicing. Although the call for democracy was silenced in China, we should give thanks that the students and workers there spoke up at all. This Thanksgiving Day brings us much for which to be grateful. In all, the world just might be a getting a little better. Syracuse could lessen the blow Syracuse has a unique opportunity to become a main artery for al! of Kosciusko County, with Amtrak announcing plans to re-route its Broadway LTD and Capitol LTD passenger lines. While Warsaw would be a losing pawn in the venture, with passenger service leaving the city after a five year stay, Syracuse could lessen the blow by inheriting a passenger stop. Warsaw Mayor Jeff Plank has pledged his support to “retain (passenger) service within the county.” The Syracuse Town Council added its support last night (Tuesday), while the Syracuse Chamber of Commerce has formed a committee to pursue a passenger stop and the park department has pledged its assistance. Now it is time for community members, businesses and industry to pledge their support. A passenger rail through Syracuse could mean more money for business and industry while it would increase transportation options for residents. Chamber of Commerce member Jeanne Gardiner estimated that $3.5 million per year has been generated through the county while Warsaw has hosted the service and now Syracuse has an opportunity to share in that profit. With proposed stops including a direct line to Chicago, shopping and entertainment opportunities for Syracuse and neighboring residents abound. Money will be needed to build and maintain a Syracuse depot, but the resulting advantages are twofold. Dedication is also needed on the part of town officials to assure a stop in Syracuse, while community support can do nothing but help. Syracuse has a unique opportunity and its residents should assure that it doesn’t slip away. Warsaw travel agencies reported that an average Amtrak rider paid approximately $75 a ticket, with $750,000 in ticket sales each year. A percent of Amtrak riders also purchase food, gasoline, various mementos and travel items previous to boarding a train, while some may even stay overnight in local motels, bringing even more money to the area. A Syracuse stop also provides the opportunity for various groups and organizations to plan trips that are more economically feasible.

What others say — Don't delay car safety Plane crashes capture our attention, but car accidents claim more lives. In 1988 about 49,000 people died on American roads. About 1.8 million others suffered disabling injuries. These crashes cost Americans some $70.2 billion last year alone. Isn’t it time the country got serious about auto safety and established standards that would better protect us and our cars? Before the laissez-faire Reagan administration took safety on a deadend ride, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which sets car safety standards, was a strong protector. About 15 years ago the agency contracted with auto manufacturers to build a small but safe fuel-efficient car at a moderate price. The result was the Research Safety Vehicle, or RSV. If all cars were equipped with the RSV’s features, it has been estimated the United States would see a 40 percent decline in gasoline consumption and at least 10,000 fewer fatalities each year. The RSV was not a pipe dream. The government said it could have been mass-produced in the late 1970 s for a $7,000-SB,OOO sticker price. What’s sad, though, is thabihrough a combination of governmental laxity and manufacturers’ disinterest, only one of the car’s major safety features — air bags — has made it to the marketplace. Owners of American cars still can’t benefit from the RSV’s foam-filled side panels with special reinforcement, which protected against side collisions. And radar braking, which made the car automatically brake when an object approached more quickly than a driver could react to it, hasn’t become a standard either. And don’t look for the RSV’s advanced bumpers, which could withstand collisions up to 10 mph. In fact, during the Reagan years, NHTSA lowered its bumper standards. Cars previously had to be able to withstand, without damage, front and rear collisions up to 5 mph; in 1982 the requirement was lowered to 2.5 mph, and damage was permitted. The result of that change alone is hundreds of millions of dollars annually in repair costs and higher insurance premiums. (This year’s models aren’t any better. A recent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Study test on 19 small 1989 two-door cars found they all sustained damage — some more than $3,000 worth — in 5 mph crash tests.) Will the RSV’s features ever become a standard part of cars? One hopeful sign is that Bush doesn’t put a pox on regulation, as Reagan did. In fact, Jerry R. Curry, his nominee for NHTSA head, said in his Senate confirmation hearing last week that he’s committed to quickening NHTSA’s pace on setting safety standards. He also has said he supports stricter safety standards for light trucks and vans, which aren’t as regulated as cars. However, when it comes to safer cars, consumers hold a lot of power. Making safety a prime concern when car shopping sends a powerful message to auto manufacturers. It was consumers’ concerns over the safety of the Audi 5000, for example, that caused its manufacturer to make design changes. Finally, letting legislators know that safety matters is an effective way to put on the pressure for hptfpr-huilt — THE JOURNAL-GAZETTE, FORT WAYNE

A 1 ' I i U® r * |; Or I*" 1 "“• Hr Take time to give thanks on Thursday

Court news

City Court The following fines have been levied and paid in the Goshen City Court: Violation of learner’s permit — Ronald D. Hull 11. 19. Milford, dismissed Speeding — Tracy L. Eppert, 24, Milford, S6B; George O. Snook, 42, Syracuse, S6B Public intoxication — John A. Haskins, 35, Milford, $153, S2OO suspended. 60 days in jail suspended, one year good behavior, complete after care program at GAP County Court The following persons have paid fines and costs in Kosciusko County Court. Judge James Jarrette presiding: Speeding — Charlotte Upson, no age. North Webster, S6O; James L. Winters, no age. North Webster, $65; Lisa K. Fidler, 26, Leesburg, SBO. Disregarding Stop Sign — Lisa K. Fidler, 26. Leesburg, S6O. Expired Plates — Neal Germanprez. no age. North Webster. S6O. Battery — Diana Lynn Slone, no age. North Webster, $213. Operating While Intoxicated — Shari L. Klenke. no age. Syracuse, $333. driver's license restricted 180 days, K.C.J. six days. « Operating Without License — Sherry Durflinger, no age. North Webster. $l3B. Marriage Licenses The following couple has applied for a marriage license in Elkhart County Court. Goshen Division: Herr-Switzer Phillip Edward Herr, 31. rural route, Syracuse and Kimberly Jo Switzer, 25, CR 121, New Paris

Drug grant —

Kosciusko County awarded $129,613

(By STACEY LESCH Staff Writer According to Kosciusko CountySheriff Ron Robinson, a federal drug grant totaling $129,613.23 was officially awarded to the county on October 6 of this year. Although no money has yet reached the department, pending finalization of paper work, Robinson hopes to have the monies by early December Administered by the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, the purpose of the federally funded drug grant is to aid law enforcement officials in the war against drugs. The monies will be used for undercover police drug buys, equipment, and manpower. Robinson estimated that at least eight other Indiana counties have filed for a drug grant. In a joint effort with the Plymouth Police Department in Marshall County, Robinson says the two departments filed a dual grant. Despite the two counties receiving individual funding, Robinson explains that, when necessary, equipment and man-

THE MAIL JOURNAL (U.S P S 3258 4000) Published by The Mail Journal every Wednesday and entered as Second Class matter at the Post Office at Syracuse. Indiana 46567 Second class postage paid at 103 E Mains Street. Syracuse Indiana 46567 and at additional entry offices Subscription $lB 00 per year in Kosciusko County $24 00 outside county POSTMASTERS Send change of ad, dress forms to The Mail Journal P O Box 188 Milford. Indiana 46542

The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk Jeanne Weirick: Stiffler-Lesley Charles E. Stiffler, 81, PO Box, North Webster, and Sarnie L. Lesley, 77, New Paris. Green-Hartman James W. Green, 64, rural route, Leesburg, and Mae E. Hartman. 74, rural route, Leesburg: Sheets-Sobczak Steven A. Sheets, 26, East Shore Drive. Syracuse, and Nancy R. Sobczak. 28. East Shore Drive. Syracuse. Marriage Dissolutions The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in the Kosciusko Superior and Circuit Courts: DeWitt — Dena K. DeWitt, North Harrison Street, Syracuse, and Joseph J. DeWitt, rural route. Syracuse. The couple was married Oct. 8. 1986, and separated Sept. 28. 1989. Circuit Court .The following petitions have been filed in Kosciusko Circuit Court, Judge Richard Sand presiding: Complaint On Note Mutual Federal Savings Bank versus Howard G. Moser and Janlyn Moser, rural route, Leesburg, and Hire & Ulery Enterprises, East Main St., Warsaw. Petitioner seeks $77,749.28, interest, expenses, attorney fees, costs, foreclosure of mortgage.

power will be shared between the counties. Robinson credits patrolman Jeff Bronsing for coordinating the information and statistics from recent local drug raids for the purpose of the grant. In fashion Bat-logos continue to be popular in children’s sweatshirts. A thrifty mom can create individual designs by buying plain sweatshirts and creating these and other favorites of children. This year fake leopard furs and skirt designs are gaining in popularity. This same motif is found in tights, sheer stockings and knee-highs in black, white, navy and various other colors. New Subscribers M. P. Surso R 2 Box 411 Syracuse,lnd.46s67 Warren Fisher 1720 Ormands Jungle Den Rd. Astor, Fla. 32102 Gus Duehmig 406 Front St. Syracuse, Ind. 46567 Amy L. Smith 5327-5 Stonehedge Blvd. Fort Wayne, Ind. 46835 Dan L. Bohnstedt R 1 Box 157-S Milford, Ind. 46542 Cary Beardslee 2020 N. Beachwood Dr. 204 Hollywood Hills, Calif. 90068 Charles Bolinger 6344 E. State St. Fort Wayne, Ind. 46815

"CRUZIN AROUND 'CUSE''

I * SKI v ■ : V WTO PROUDLY DISPLAYING her prize shot is Sirena Bartow, 18, Syracuse, who -I could not fully explain the excitement she felt after bringing down a 183 pound, nine-point buck last Wednesday. “I shot it and just freaked,” she told Mail-Journal reporter Stacey Lesch, as she bubbled with joy. Sirena says she is the only female hunter in a family full of hunting fanatics. She deer hunted for the first time last fall, but was not successful. This year, while hunting alone in a woods near her grandparents home, Goshen, her luck changed. Sirena brought the buck down with one shot. She manages a shy smile as she tells, “Everyone at work is calling me a killer now." She says the rack itself is something to be proud of and she plans to have the buck’s head mounted. —O’WHILE ON the topic of deer, people often hear about driver’s hitting a deer. But how often do you hear of a deer hitting a car? This is what happened to Rev. Dick Bunnell of Saint Andrew's United Methodist Church. The yearling dog ran into the side of his car as he was traveling (fast on US6 last week. Rev. Bunnell stated he, Myra Lackey and Jan Karr were enroute to a meeting in Nappanee when the accident occurred. The yearling darted out from the south side of the road and hit the car. Mrs. Lackey saw the doe dash out, but the accident could not be avoided. Police were notified of the accident and Mrs. Karr contacted her husband. Arnie Karr, of the Tri-County Fish and Wildlife Area. Karr, manager of the game reserve, took the doe away. —o— COUNTY AND Christmas banners went up in Syracuse Tuesday. Both banners have been placed on poles at the Syracuse Town Hall. Nevil Speicher, Nappanee, is responsible for getting the task done. —O'BETTY ARTHUR was honored for her volunteer work at the Lakeland Youth Center, recently. She and her family were treated to a limousine ride and dinner at Sleepy Owl restaurant. A plaque bearing her name will be placed on the wall in the Lakeland Youth Center meeting room. —o— FOUR COUPLES from Saint Andrew’s United Methodist Church spent the first week of this month in Nags Head, N.C. The vacation was the result of an auction, last January. These four couples bid on a vacation at a beach home, partially owned by Bob and Pam Westfall. The auction was to raise funds for the youth of the church. On November 1, Rev. Dick and Helen Bunnell, George and Lois Walbridge, Jim and Jay Hughes and Dale and Lois Allen left for a group vacation. According to Bunnell, the home is on the outer banks of North Carolina, along the ocean. The week was spent in relaxation, golf outings, good eating, travel and sightseeing. Among the sightseeing was a visit to the village of Kitty Hawk, site of the Wright Brothers 1903 flight and the museum there; as well as a visit to Cape Hatteras, home of the oldest lighthouse in the country. The group returned to Syracuse on November 11. —o — MEMBERS OF the Syracuse Fire Department and Emergency Medical Service along with spouses and/or friends, were honored with an appreciation dinner last Saturday at the American Legion. The dinner was coordinated by Ron Conley through donations from a number of businesses. Hershel Wells, owner of Gropp’s, donated ail the food.

Those who attended the dinner noted appreciation for the event. SUNDAY, DEC. 24, will be the last Sunday in Syracuse for Rev. David Maish and his wife, Sallie. Following the four Christmas services the Maishes will be moving to Muncie. He has accepted a pastorate at Gethsemane United Methodist Church, Muncie. During the last 7'/z years at Calvary United Methodist Church, Rev. Maish was instrumental in the formation of Learning Adventures For Fun and Mobile Meals. He has been active in the Syracuse-Wawasee Ministerial Association and Syracuse-Wawasee Rotary Club. In addition he has served on some committees for the Wawasee Community School Corporation and is presently on the AIDS Task Force for the corporation. He also has served on boards for Oakwood Park and Epworth Forest. For the last three years he has led devotions for residents at Lakeland Loving Care, Milford. His wife, Sallie, helps single parents and displaced homemakers receive the education needed for a career. She will continue her work for several months, three days a week. She works out of Goshen and will be staying with friends while working in the area. SOME CHANGES on Main Street will soon be visable. Local attorney, Steve Snyder, will be building a new office on the now empty lot at 123 W. Main Street. That location is the former site of the McClintic Building. Snyder commented construction will begin as soon as contractors can get to the site with the basement of the building being completed yet this fall. Heckaman Homes is building four modules, each measuring 14 feet by 62 feet, which will be set in place by March 1. Once completed the building will have five offices with the basement allowing for future expansion. Snyder noted the move was necessary as adequate office space is no longer available at the current location in Pickwick Place. This new building will provide ample room for additional secretaries. Plans also include for the new construction to coincide with the town’s beautification plans designed by Ball State University. The exterior of the building will be beige vinyl siding with dark brown trim. He will be using the brick pavers for a walkway from the sidewalk to the front door. Beckman Lawson Sandler Snyder & Federoff opened an office in Syracuse in 1976 in the First Charter Building. In 1978 the offices moved to 111 Pickwick Place. Currently there are three attorneys with the firm in Syracuse, Snyder, David Cates and Donald K. Broad. —o— IF YOU have been in the town’s clerktreasurer’s office this week, persons will find a new, but familiar face working for ClerkTreasurer Elgie Tatman. Julie Wanggaard has moved from a matron/secretary for the Syracuse Police Department to a clerk in the clerk-treasurer’s office. Julie and Nancy Pratt worked part-time for the police department. Nancy has now become a full time matron/secretary for the department. A farewell for Julie was held at the police department last Thursday. STEVE SHARP, member of Calvary United Methodist Church, recently left for a month-long stay in Ganta, Liberia, West Africa. He will be joining and working with Grandin and Virginia Godley, also members of Calvary, who have been supervisors of work teams and project coordinators at the Ganta missions on and off for a year. The Godleys plan to spend at least another year there. Ganta has a church, vocational school, hospital and leprosarium, which are supported by the United Methodist Churches. THE SYRACUSE Public Library basement was filled last week with stacks of children’s books and a number of ladies who volunteered their time to help sort them out, in order to put together a new system in the children’s department. Dianna Evans, children’s librarian, said the “new system” simply means a reorganization so the books will be easier for the children and parents to find. The women were labeling, sorting and shelving all of the children's fiction books. A local business donated paper, coding dots and other needed supplies for the work. Dianna indicated there is still work to be done. If anyone else would like to volunteer, please let her know by calling 457-3022. This is a job that cannot be done without help from the public. * IN REGARD to the big weekend coming up Dec. 2 and 3 for the community and merchants, the day of the free movie showing at the Pickwick Theatre will be Saturday, Dec. 2, instead of Sunday. The movie, “The Muppets Take Manhattan,” will be shown at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m„ with Santa Claus visiting between times. Tickets for the movie will be given free from participating merchants, as this is a fund raiser for the Lakeland Daycare Center. Merchants’ stores will be open Saturday for Christmas shopping and to give away the tickets, and some of the participating stores will also be open on Sunday afternoon, Dec 3 (Continued on page 5)