The Mail-Journal, Volume 29, Number 2, Milford, Kosciusko County, 21 February 1990 — Page 4
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THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wed., February 21,1990
Editorial
FFA interest vital to success FFA members all over the country are promoting agricultural education and the food and fiber industry this week — designated as National FFA Week. * Unfortunately, many people don’t take the time to reflect on the contributions the agricultural sector provides to our country and to. ensure their healthy persistence. As has been evident throughout the country, a decline in membership of the Wawasee High School FFA Club mirrors that disinterest. The local FFA is comprised of 29 members, with numbers steadily declining. In an effort to revive the organization, a change at the national convention was made last year that changed the meaning of FFA, with Future Farmers of America no longer being the lone designation. “The organization is trying to get away from the image that it’s (FFA) just for farmers,” noted Wawasee FFA Advisor referring to a change intended to give the agri-business sector more involvement. However, involvement is needed from local residents to ensure FFA’s future successes. No name change is going to equal the effect personal involvement the agri-business will have. FFA activities and award programs complement instruction in agricultural education by giving students practical experience in the application of agricultural skills and knowledge gained in classes. Developing agricultural leadership, cooperation and citizenship is FFA’s major objective. Local citizens must help in realizing that objective. May he who is without sin . . . In a community of Christians it should be difficult to find hatred or blame being carelessly thrown about. But the sad truth is, no matter how good the Christian; how forgiving the person, human nature makes each and every one of us willing and able to pass judgement. In this small community many have mastered the art of blame as we approach the saddening anniversary of an accident that took the lives of six people just one year ago. Only one person survived. Those families who lost their loved ones were certainly victims, but what we have failed to realize is that the sole survivor may be the ultimate victim. He is forced to live not only with the memory of the accident, but also with the ridicule and blame being forced upon him by those calling themselves Christians. As Jesus says in the Bible, “May he who is without sin cast the first stone.” Those that recall the following actions of the group Jesus was speaking to, will know that each and every person dropped their stones and walked away from the woman they intended to stone to death for committing adultery. No one, including good Christians, are without sin or fault. As it has been determined, the fatal accident occurred on a stretch of unmarked, hazardous, county roadway. Although excessive speeds and careless actions played a large role, we must learn to accept that an accident is just that. It certainly was not anyone’s intent to kill that early March morning. Whether late for work or an appointment, or just plain restlessness following a slow driver, we have all taken stupid chances with a vehicle. We would not be human if we didn’t. And we would not be human if we didn’t ridicule someone else who was not so lucky to get away with a stupid chance. But it doesn’t make it right. Blame will not erase the past. It will not bring back loved ones. It can, however, be turned into forgiveness and acceptance. Remember those who have been taken from this world, but pray especially for those who have been left to suffer silently for the rest of their lives. What others say — It happens at home Child abuse is not something we just read about, hear about or see on television. It is something that happens right here at home. If you don’t believe us, just check with our county law enforcement officers who investigate a record 283 cases this past year . . . more than nine times the number reported five years earlier. The abuse takes many forms, some almost beyond comprehension; and children are the victims. Beyond molestation is neglect, which often opens the door to additional types of abuse and criminal acts. The sheriff’s department currently has two officers assigned full-time to investigating reports of child abuse and related activities. Sgt. Susan Austin has investigated more than 600 abuse and neglect cases since 1984; often finding many typical responses from both offenders and victims of a child sexual abuse. Although not as repulsive as physical abuse, emotional abuse of children is just as damaging, leaving long-lasting results. Continual criticism, harassment, ridicule, and threats are all forms of emotional abuse. Material on child abuse prevention, molestation and neglect, and ways for parents to deal with the stress associated with raising children is available, free for the asking. Child abuse is happening at home — not in the newspapers, magazines, on radio or television. - HENDRICKS COUNTY GUIDE-GAZETTE
Meeks helps schools increase space
“Education has been a priority throughout this short session,” State Senator Robert L. Meeks (R-LaGrange) reflected following Senate approval of House Bill 1294 last evening, Tuesday, Feb 20 “This measure corrects an existing inequity in our state code as it concerns school financing. And, I’m told, it will assist at least 10-15 school corporations or more.” House Bill 1294, which Meeks sponsored in the Senate, will allow the base tax levy of a school corporation to be increased if it opens an existing facility after July 1, 1988, which has not been used for at least three years. The facility reopening would have to be for additional classroom space, School corporations, presently, which construct new facilities to provide additional classroom -space may broaden their base tax levy to accommodate the additional expenses.
"The principle thrust of Project PrimeTime,”' Meeks underscored, “is to reduce class size. Obviously, to do that, school corporations- need additional classroom space. This measure really removes the incentive to simply build a new structure if another facility that may have been closed could be restored to use, There’s absolutely no reason for our school corporations to be penny wise and dollar foolish Without the action we’ve taken, however, for many school corporations, the dollars simply are not there to provide for such a facility reopening." Building maintenance and janitorial expenses are the only two items which may be funded under House Bill 1294. Teacher and faculty salaries could not be provided under this bill. Members of the Senate Finance Committee were told earlier this month during testimony that between 1983-84 and 1987-88, 95 school corporations constructed 634 Prime Time classrooms in-
cluding 11 new elementary schools at a cost of $72 million. Between those years, 73 school corporations renovated or restructured older facilities into 479 classrooms. According to the Indiana Department of Education (DOE), 72 school corporations reported.immediate needs during the next two years for additional classroom space directly associated with Prime Time requirements. . “I think this bill provides for better stewardship of our facilities,” Meeks noted. “We should not encourage the burden of new or higher taxes on Hoosiers to provide facilities that may already exist. Prime Time is working. It’s a proven and sue cessful part of our reform in education. This bill just provides a little more room for ing in the use of structures while leveling out the playing field. ” House Bill 1284 will now move back to the House of Representatives where it will await further action in its amended form.
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Court news
County Court
The following persons have paid fines and costs in Kosciusko County Court, Judge James Jarrette presiding: Speeding — Sean R. Mock, 22, Syracuse,sßo. Disregarding Stop Sign — Michael P. Shock. 26, Syracuse, S6O. Circuit Court The following petitions have been filed in Kosciusko Circuit Court, Judge Richard Sand presiding: Complaint Ameritrust National Bank, Michiana, f/k/a State Bank of Syracuse versus Owen K. Cobbum and Saundra K. Cobbum, Syracuse. Petitioner seeks $70,543.57, principal in sum of $63,511.34, interest, attorney fees, expenses, costs, foreclosure. Complaint State of Indiana versus Kathryn Breidinger, rural route, Syracuse. Petitioner seeks S4OO. Superior Court The following petitions have been filed in Kosciusko Superior Court, Judge Robert Burner presiding: Complaint Roy's Shell Station, North Webster, versus, Charles C. Harris, rural route, North Webster. Petitioner seeks $295 plus $55 in court costs. Complaint Augsburger’s Super Valu versus Carla Clawson, Ligonier. Petitioner seeks $B2l plus $55 in court costs. Complaint Augsburger’s Super Valu versus Melinda Hlutke, rural route, Syracuse. Petitioner seeks $387 plus $55 in court costs. Complaint Augsburger’s Super Valu versus Kevin L. Steele, Carrol Street, Syracuse. Petitioner seeks $320.82 plus $55 in court costs. Complaint Lakeland Animal Clinic, Syracuse, versus Beverly England, Cromwell. Petitioner seeks $819.50 plus $55 in court costs.
Ice, snow blamed as vehicles collide
Syracuse Police investigated the following accidents and theft during the past week: Two-vehicles collided at the intersection of Boston and Brooklyn Street at 8:06 a m.. Wednesday, Feb. 14. Police report that Molly M. Young, 29, Cromwell, was traveling west in her 1980 Ford Fairmount. In her attempt to make a right turn her vehicle started to slide on the snow and ice and slid into the rear of a 1985 Ford Escort that was also westbound. Roberta L Cammarn, 17, Syracuse, told police she was attempting to make a right turn in her vehicle also when the accident occurred. Following too closely and snow and ice on the road were the causes of a two-vehicle accident Wednesday, Feb. 14, at 5:17 p.m . at SR 13 and Main Street. Brent L. Conley, 18, Milford, was traveling south on SR 13 in his 1982 Buick and could not stop when the traffic light changed to red, sliding into the rear of a 1982 Ford, driven by Lori A. Powell. 23, Claypool. Powell had stopped for the traffic light when the accident occurred. Damage was
THE MAIL-JOURNAL (U.S.P S. 3258-4000) Published by The Papers Incorporated every Wednesday and entered as Second Class matter at the Post Office in Syracuse, Indiana 46567. Second class postage paid at 103 E. Main Street, Syracuse, Indiana 46567 and at additional entry offices. Subscription: Newstand rate 40C per copy, SIB.OO per year in Kosciusko County, $24 00 outside county. * / Della Baumgartner, Publisher (if 0 Ron Baumgartner, General Manager 10l „ , Jeri Seely, Editor ck L z< zV Kip Schumm, Advertising Manager xeciMX POSTMASTERS. Send change of address forms to The Mail Journal, P.O. Box 188, Milford. Indiana 46542 The Papers Incorporated reserves the right to refuse for publication any advertising that is Considered offensive, misleading or detrimental to the public, the newspaper or another advertiser and to edit advertising at its discretion DEADLINES Legal copy, 5 p m Monday, classified copy and display copy, 11 a m Tuesday
Marriage Licenses The following couple has applied for a marriage license in the office of Kosciusko County Clerk Jeanne Weirick: Feldman-Andrews Jay A. Feldman, 25, Hepler Drive, Warsaw; and Christine Michelle Andrews, 23, PO Box, North Webster. Marriage Dissolutions The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in the Kosciusko Superior and Circuit Courts: Roulo — Michele Marie Roulo, no address given, and Donald Charles Roulo, PO Box, North Webster. The couple was married April 3, 1985, and separated Sept. 1,1989. There is one minor child. Kinney — Charlotte Elaine Kinney, Winona Avenue, Warsaw, and Bruce Kinney, Jr., rural route, Leesburg. The couple was married Sept. 12, 1981. and separated Feb. 11, 1982. Petitioner seeks restoration of former name. Smith — Debora L. Smith, no address given, and Michael B. Smith, rural route, Syracuse. The couple was married Jan. 14,1983, and separated’ Dec. 14, 1989. There are two minor children. Miller — Peggy D. Doty-Miller, rural route, Milford, and John E. Miller, rural route, Milford. The couple was married Nov. 21,1987, and separated Jan. 30, 1990. Petitioner seeks restoration of former name. County Court Goshen Division The following area resident has had fines levied and paid in the Elkhart County Court: False Or ficticious registration — Kathleen Dav, 30, Syracuse. $54 City Court The following fines have been levied and paid in the Goshen City Court: Speeding — Harlan W. Steffen, 55. Syracuse, $63: Andrea M. Gray, 65. Syracuse. S6B
estimated up to $2,500 to Conley's vehicle and under S2OO to Powell’s vehicle. Police Notified Later Beth Williams, Syracuse, notified police at 2.p.m., Thursday,' Feb. 15, that at approximately 1:40 p.m., that afternoon her vehicle had collided with another vehicle. Police were not notified of the accident until Williams contacted the department for a police report. According to information given to police, Williams stated she was attempting to drive her vehicle away from the curb when another vehicle turned in front of her causing the accident. The police report states Kermit Kropf was driving an Oldsmobile Omega that was involved in the accident. Damage was estimated up to S7OO to Williams’ vehicle. Further information was not available. Theft
Betty Schlotterbak, Syracuse, reported the theft of a zipper purse from Lakeland Laundry on Monday, Feb. 19 The purse contained around S2OO plus some miscellaneous items. The theft occurred around 2 p.m.
“C RUZIN AROUND 'CUSE"
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Ly y HILE LAST Wednesday I% A / evening’s snow and ice V Y storm left something to be J desired for motorists, it was a winter wonderland for youngsters by the weekend. The blanket of snow was covered with a glaze of ice. During ttye day, the snow and ice that melted froze over night keeping a good amount of ground cover. Warm temperatures on Saturday brought kids and sleds out to enjoy an icy mound of snow on a hill, such as the hill in the parking lot at Lakeside Park. Captured in the above photo enjoying a good sled run are Sarah Combs and Ashley Ray on the saucer sled with Gab Combs and B.J. Cook waiting for their turn down the hill. —o— THERE’S A new business coming to Syracuse. Kriders Nurseries of Middlebury will be opening a new garden center in town. A grand opening has been set for April 1. The company purchased the land and home just south of The Image Group and across from McDonald's on SR 13. The owners noted the nursery will carry all of the same lawn and garden materials carried at the Middlebury location. Hours will be 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday and 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. —o— COULD THERE be another business coming to Syracuse in the near future? It has been learned that a parcel of land has been purchased in Wawasee Village. Further information will be available in several weeks. —o— HOOK’S DRUG Store in Syracuse has taken on a new look inside. According to Bill Czarnecki, manager, the exterior walls have been repainted as well as the cornice, giving it a fresh new look. CONGRATULATIONS TO members of the Wawasee High School Academic Team who placed 14th out of 22 in the state competition on the University of Indianapolis campus. The team had won the right to participate in the state finals by winning the regional in mid-January. Wawasee High School had the only students in the county win such honors. At the academic decathalon, team members are tested in the areas of economics, science, mathematics, fine arts, social science, and language/literature. Team members must also participate in the Super Quiz, write an essay, give a speech, and be interviewed by a business community representative. Members of Wawasee’s team are Larry Horwitz, Jeremy Beer, Scott Berkey, Lydia Bonner, Matt Bucher, Jenny Smith, Becky Vint and Shawn Kiser. These students were coached by Beth Hursh, Karen Parr, Pam Schumm, Chris Kline, Ron Corson and numerous other helpers. —o— CONGRATULATIONS SHOULD also go to Todd C. Roberts, Jr., r 6, Syracuse. He was recently one of five Purdue University students in the School of Agriculture to receive SI,OOO DowElanco Scholarships. > Todd is a junior majoring in agricultural sales and marketing. SYRACUSE TOWN board member Carl Myrick can’t say he doesn’t know a millionaire. In fact, he has one in the family. According to his wife, Susan, Carl’s nephew, Greg Grant, Elkhart, won a million dollars in the Hoosier Lottery several weeks ago. MEMBERS OF the Syracuse Police Department continue to upgrade their knowledge of police work by attending seminars and schools. Recently, Robert E. Houser, detective for the department, attended a three-day seminar in Indianapolis on homicide investigation. Other members of the department Will also be attending seminars and schools over the next several months. MANY OF us know that former Northern Indiana Public Service Company manager Jay Peffley is an avid basketball fan and participated in sports during his high school days. We also know that sports was an interest of his brother, Bob.
Earlier this month Bob was among 15 former athletes and coaches who had made outstanding contributions to Goshen High School athletics and was inducted into that school’s hall of fame. Bob was a football, basketball and baseball player who graduated from GHS in 1930. He was the quarterback of the unbeaten 1929 football team and a member of the 1929-30 basketball team that went to the final 16. Bob had served as a basketball referee for 13 years, and in 1975 was made an honorary referee. Bob retired after 50 years of selling sporting goods. LAST WEEK we noted in this column that applications are being accepted by the Federal Communications Commission for operation of an FM radio station in the Syracuse area. It seems that Syracuse residents Mary Lou Dixon, Mary Jane Deardorff, and Bill and John Dixon will be applying for that license as Deardorff and Dixon. In fact, these local residents were responsible for “creating a window” for a radio station in the area. Bill commented that his family filed a petition with the FCC in February 1989 following a study that it was feasible. A notice of proposed rule was made around June 21, 1989, which this was a good idea. The Dixon family was the only one who filed comments regarding being in favor of the station. Once the time passed for comments, their request was placed at the bottom of the stack. The request came to the top on Thursday, Feb. 8. when it was approved to let Syracuse have an FM radio station and creating a window for a station. Bill noted that the window will be opened on March 19 for applying for the license. This they intend to do. “We are serious about putting a station in the area,” noted Bill. Members of the family have three reasons why they want to start a radio station in their hometown: Bill is personally very interested in radio and has a bachelor of arts from Northwestern University and a master’s of mass communications from the University of Georgia. Another reason is Bill was born and raised in • Syracuse, members of his family are from Syracuse, and he wants to “come back home.” The third reason is that the northern third of Kosciusko County, southern part of Elkhart County, and a corner of Noble County are “underserved by radio stations,” according to Bill. He noted that what it all boils down to is community responsibility. The family does meet the criteria set by the FCC in determining the awarding of a license. The criteria consists of diversity of ownership, local ownership, integration of ownership with management, broadcast experience, community service, and various different technical conditions. In addition to Bill and his experience with radio, his brother, John, is working on an English degree from DePauw University. Their mother, Mary Lou, has been advisor for the Syracuse Junior High newspaper for a number of years. Mary Jane Deardorff, aunt to the boys, worked with the National Weather Service in South Bend. The group is very serious about its endeavor. Approximately SIOO,OOO has been spent in studies and fees to get this far. It will cost another estimated SIOO,OOO to proceed further. It is hoped that the FM station will have the call letters of WAWC. If approval is given for the license, the radio station will operate 24 hours a day and include news, sports, market reports, community service spots, and of course music. Initial reports indicated that the request was made by Larry Fuss, president of Contemporary Communications, a consulting firm in Atlanta, Ga. All attempts to contact Fuss have failed. SYRACUSE JAYCEES President Jeanette Gaskins and Vice President Jerry Wright spent the past weekend in Marion attending the Indiana State Jaycee Convention. Both agreed it was one of the best meetings they have attended. Each quarter. Jaycees from throughout the state gather to share ideas, exchange information on projects and generally have a great time. Syracuse Jaycees have done many things for others and for the community, including the annual Toys for Tots Dinner, March of Dimes Rubber Duck Roadblock for MDA, Chamber of Commerce sign cleanup, and chaperoning teen dances at the Lakeland Youth Center. ’ (Continued on page 5)