News Archives - News Now Warsaw https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/category/news/ Wed, 23 Sep 2026 12:18:17 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Indiana superintendents say they’re cutting jobs because of property tax reforms https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/indiana-superintendents-say-theyre-cutting-jobs-because-of-property-tax-reforms/ Wed, 23 Sep 2026 12:17:38 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=136363 By Mackenzi Klemann
Indiana Capital Chronicle

Dozens of Indiana’s public school superintendents say their districts will cut teaching and support staff in the coming years to contend with the financial fallout of property tax reform, according to a new survey from the Indiana Coalition for Public Education.

This is the second year the volunteer advocacy group surveyed superintendents about the financial outlook of their schools in the wake of Senate Enrolled Act 1, which set forth a series of major property tax reforms.

The survey went out to 290 superintendents throughout the state in August; 144 responded.

Other solutions raised in the report are creative: one superintendent said they planted prairie grass instead of mowing to save money on fuel; removed televisions to save on electricity and launched a student-run business to generate new income.

Nearly all of the respondents said they anticipate negative financial impacts from SEA 1, while a clear majority expressed similar concerns about universal school choice and the level of funding the General Assembly will allocate to public schools next year.

Schools would need anywhere from 1% to 25% in one-time funding increases to maintain the level of services expected by the community, plus an average of 6% in ongoing increases thereafter, the report found.

Jim May, a volunteer with the ICPE, described the findings as “more disheartening than surprising.”

“We’ve seen very large numbers of schools reduce staff, both support staff and teaching staff,” he said. “We’re seeing cuts to services. We’re seeing a lot of rural corporations saying things like classroom sizes are growing.”

How schools are contending with shortfalls?

Many districts are eliminating support staff and teaching roles to make up for budget shortfalls.

Half of respondents said they’ve already cut support staff, while another 16% will do so soon and 30% are considering the same.

Forty-six percent of superintendents said they are eliminating some teaching roles. That number rises to 93% when accounting for districts that are actively considering or will take similar action.

Nearly 40% have issued or will issue a new general obligation bond, though many others are considering the option to raise more support.

Others are considering delayed maintenance, reduced staff raises, cuts to transportation services, electives and field trips or consolidation. One raised the possibility their district won’t be able to sustain student internships, career pathways or dual-credit offerings.

In rural districts, superintendents say they worry lawmakers are pressuring them to consolidate or close schools.

“I feel like funding is bleeding the small schools dry,” one superintendent wrote. “I am skeptical that this is simply a push to consolidate.”

“Our commitment to live within our means in the past, with no referendum and super low tax rates, has caught up with us,” another said. “I think larger schools with better tax bases have given the rest of us a black eye. We haven’t spent haphazardly, but are punished like we did.”

Far fewer districts are seeking a referendum than initially expected this year, despite it being a record year for referendum questions on the ballot.

Responses to the group’s superintendent survey offer a clue as to why so few took this route: 39% of respondents cited a lack of support within their communities.

This is particularly true for rural districts, which were more likely to cut staff than pursue a referendum when compared to urban and suburban districts.

Still, survey responses suggest more referendums could appear on the ballot in 2028 — the next year schools can do so.

“We cannot continue to do more with less,” one superintendent wrote in response to the survey, which did not identify respondents.

“Funding has got to keep pace with salary requirements, safety concerns, increased utility costs, and increased equipment and supply costs. In a day and age where we are required to do more and more to support our students and their families, we lack the financial support to do so. At some point in the very near future we will all have no choice to run a referendum because of the inadequate financial support. And on top of all of those increased costs, in my district 51% of our students do not have English as their native language — it does take more to educate them.”

Others lamented the state’s move to universal access for private school vouchers, which became available to all Hoosier families regardless of income for the first time this year.

“It is a shame that our Indiana public schools are being unnecessarily defunded by our general assembly,” one superintendent wrote, saying they were advised to eliminate $2.5 million from the district’s budget.

“Our state’s supermajority has chosen to create a manufactured financial crisis by way of funding their voucher program, supporting the growth of their charter school program, and the growth of statewide online schools/platforms. Billions of dollars are being funneled away from our public schools to support these private projects.”

Several respondents suggested private schools should be subject to similar accountability measures as public schools as a condition to accept publicly-funded vouchers.

One superintendent went a step further, suggesting any new or existing law should apply to equally to public and private schools supported by tax dollars.

“I do not believe it was a wise financial decision to prioritize paying for the private education of wealthy families,” the superintendent wrote.

“That said, the decision has been made and Indiana is now a 100% school choice state. If this is the case, then we need to level the playing field so all school entities are operating on a level playing field. Any current or new law that applies to public education should be applied to any other school system that accepts state dollars.”

The post Indiana superintendents say they’re cutting jobs because of property tax reforms appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> By Mackenzi Klemann
Indiana Capital Chronicle

Dozens of Indiana’s public school superintendents say their districts will cut teaching and support staff in the coming years to contend with the financial fallout of property tax reform, according to a new survey from the Indiana Coalition for Public Education.

This is the second year the volunteer advocacy group surveyed superintendents about the financial outlook of their schools in the wake of Senate Enrolled Act 1, which set forth a series of major property tax reforms.

The survey went out to 290 superintendents throughout the state in August; 144 responded.

Other solutions raised in the report are creative: one superintendent said they planted prairie grass instead of mowing to save money on fuel; removed televisions to save on electricity and launched a student-run business to generate new income.

Nearly all of the respondents said they anticipate negative financial impacts from SEA 1, while a clear majority expressed similar concerns about universal school choice and the level of funding the General Assembly will allocate to public schools next year.

Schools would need anywhere from 1% to 25% in one-time funding increases to maintain the level of services expected by the community, plus an average of 6% in ongoing increases thereafter, the report found.

Jim May, a volunteer with the ICPE, described the findings as “more disheartening than surprising.”

“We’ve seen very large numbers of schools reduce staff, both support staff and teaching staff,” he said. “We’re seeing cuts to services. We’re seeing a lot of rural corporations saying things like classroom sizes are growing.”

How schools are contending with shortfalls?

Many districts are eliminating support staff and teaching roles to make up for budget shortfalls.

Half of respondents said they’ve already cut support staff, while another 16% will do so soon and 30% are considering the same.

Forty-six percent of superintendents said they are eliminating some teaching roles. That number rises to 93% when accounting for districts that are actively considering or will take similar action.

Nearly 40% have issued or will issue a new general obligation bond, though many others are considering the option to raise more support.

Others are considering delayed maintenance, reduced staff raises, cuts to transportation services, electives and field trips or consolidation. One raised the possibility their district won’t be able to sustain student internships, career pathways or dual-credit offerings.

In rural districts, superintendents say they worry lawmakers are pressuring them to consolidate or close schools.

“I feel like funding is bleeding the small schools dry,” one superintendent wrote. “I am skeptical that this is simply a push to consolidate.”

“Our commitment to live within our means in the past, with no referendum and super low tax rates, has caught up with us,” another said. “I think larger schools with better tax bases have given the rest of us a black eye. We haven’t spent haphazardly, but are punished like we did.”

Far fewer districts are seeking a referendum than initially expected this year, despite it being a record year for referendum questions on the ballot.

Responses to the group’s superintendent survey offer a clue as to why so few took this route: 39% of respondents cited a lack of support within their communities.

This is particularly true for rural districts, which were more likely to cut staff than pursue a referendum when compared to urban and suburban districts.

Still, survey responses suggest more referendums could appear on the ballot in 2028 — the next year schools can do so.

“We cannot continue to do more with less,” one superintendent wrote in response to the survey, which did not identify respondents.

“Funding has got to keep pace with salary requirements, safety concerns, increased utility costs, and increased equipment and supply costs. In a day and age where we are required to do more and more to support our students and their families, we lack the financial support to do so. At some point in the very near future we will all have no choice to run a referendum because of the inadequate financial support. And on top of all of those increased costs, in my district 51% of our students do not have English as their native language — it does take more to educate them.”

Others lamented the state’s move to universal access for private school vouchers, which became available to all Hoosier families regardless of income for the first time this year.

“It is a shame that our Indiana public schools are being unnecessarily defunded by our general assembly,” one superintendent wrote, saying they were advised to eliminate $2.5 million from the district’s budget.

“Our state’s supermajority has chosen to create a manufactured financial crisis by way of funding their voucher program, supporting the growth of their charter school program, and the growth of statewide online schools/platforms. Billions of dollars are being funneled away from our public schools to support these private projects.”

Several respondents suggested private schools should be subject to similar accountability measures as public schools as a condition to accept publicly-funded vouchers.

One superintendent went a step further, suggesting any new or existing law should apply to equally to public and private schools supported by tax dollars.

“I do not believe it was a wise financial decision to prioritize paying for the private education of wealthy families,” the superintendent wrote.

“That said, the decision has been made and Indiana is now a 100% school choice state. If this is the case, then we need to level the playing field so all school entities are operating on a level playing field. Any current or new law that applies to public education should be applied to any other school system that accepts state dollars.”

The post Indiana superintendents say they’re cutting jobs because of property tax reforms appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-23-080247.png Kosciusko County adjusting policy on donation funds following Flock controversy https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/kosciusko-county-adjusting-policy-on-donation-funds-following-flock-controversy/ Wed, 23 Sep 2026 10:23:50 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=136351 By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — The recent Flock Camera controversy in Warsaw has led to a pending policy change.

Questions arose recently about a donation fund set up by the county to help finance a program that has since been abruptly discontinued.

Attorney Travis McConnell brought up the issue at a recent county commissioners' meeting, pointing out that the fund should have been approved also by the county council.

On Tuesday, county attorney Ed Ormsby updated the commissioners and said the ordinance did not follow the latest guidance from the State Board of Accounts.

"They recommend that appropriation be done, and so the commissioners are in the process, in concurrence with the auditor, of identifying those donation funds that do not have appropriation requirements in them. And I think that the commissioners are wanting to do that to consider amending those ordinances so that they are in compliance with the SBOA guidance," Ormsby said.

He also recommended the commissioners take action on the matter soon. 

Ormsby's statement came moments after the commissioners formally terminated their contract with Flock Safety, which is the biggest provider of the surveillance camera systems in the country.

The Flock donation fund is also being dissolved.

Public outrage over the use of Flock cameras reached a tipping point on Sept. 10 when a large crowd turned out at a county council meeting to call for the defunding, saying use of the 31 cameras set up across the county represented a violation of the right to privacy.

More than 80 people at that meeting could be heard yelling angrily from outside the courthouse as council listened to comments. Inside, officials faced numerous outbursts from opponents.

Council then voted unanimously to defund the program, and County Prosecutor Brad Voelz announced a day later that the cameras would be taken down promptly.

On Tuesday, County Commissioner Bob Conley invited public input but urged people to remain civil, saying he didn't want to see it turn into a debate.

Flock opponents thanked the commissioners for their action, and McConnell urged them to take another step.

“I appreciate the willingness that this board has already shown to stand up for the rights of the people it represents. I'm asking you to consider continuing that commitment here,” McConnell said during adoption of the meeting set aside for public comment.

“I'm presenting to you today with the proposed mass surveillance sanctuary ordinance. I'm not asking you to adopt my language simply because I put it in front of you. I'm asking you to take it, review it with counsel, amend it where you believe it is amended, and seriously consider the principle behind it.

The proposal mirrors a Second Amendment "sanctuary" policy established by the county several years ago in an effort to protect gun rights.

Another Flock opponent, Chris Plack, also addressed the donation fund issue.

"When it comes to 4912, an ordinance was written, the fund was created, money started moving through it, and somehow we got years down the road before we were having the conversation we're having now today about whether the process was even proper," Plack said.

He urged county officials to slow down when contemplating future policies.

“Take the time to look at it. Send it to the council. Ask our attorney to review it. Review the contracts and stress test it against the legal limitations,” Plack added.

Cassie Rolon, the Kosciusko County Libertarian Party chair, also addressed the commissioner and alleged, without evidence, that more cameras were apparently being installed. She sought details on the issue.

The commissioners listened, but did not respond.

 

The post Kosciusko County adjusting policy on donation funds following Flock controversy appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — The recent Flock Camera controversy in Warsaw has led to a pending policy change.

Questions arose recently about a donation fund set up by the county to help finance a program that has since been abruptly discontinued.

Attorney Travis McConnell brought up the issue at a recent county commissioners’ meeting, pointing out that the fund should have been approved also by the county council.

On Tuesday, county attorney Ed Ormsby updated the commissioners and said the ordinance did not follow the latest guidance from the State Board of Accounts.

“They recommend that appropriation be done, and so the commissioners are in the process, in concurrence with the auditor, of identifying those donation funds that do not have appropriation requirements in them. And I think that the commissioners are wanting to do that to consider amending those ordinances so that they are in compliance with the SBOA guidance,” Ormsby said.

He also recommended the commissioners take action on the matter soon. 

Ormsby’s statement came moments after the commissioners formally terminated their contract with Flock Safety, which is the biggest provider of the surveillance camera systems in the country.

The Flock donation fund is also being dissolved.

Public outrage over the use of Flock cameras reached a tipping point on Sept. 10 when a large crowd turned out at a county council meeting to call for the defunding, saying use of the 31 cameras set up across the county represented a violation of the right to privacy.

More than 80 people at that meeting could be heard yelling angrily from outside the courthouse as council listened to comments. Inside, officials faced numerous outbursts from opponents.

Council then voted unanimously to defund the program, and County Prosecutor Brad Voelz announced a day later that the cameras would be taken down promptly.

On Tuesday, County Commissioner Bob Conley invited public input but urged people to remain civil, saying he didn’t want to see it turn into a debate.

Flock opponents thanked the commissioners for their action, and McConnell urged them to take another step.

“I appreciate the willingness that this board has already shown to stand up for the rights of the people it represents. I’m asking you to consider continuing that commitment here,” McConnell said during adoption of the meeting set aside for public comment.

“I’m presenting to you today with the proposed mass surveillance sanctuary ordinance. I’m not asking you to adopt my language simply because I put it in front of you. I’m asking you to take it, review it with counsel, amend it where you believe it is amended, and seriously consider the principle behind it.

The proposal mirrors a Second Amendment “sanctuary” policy established by the county several years ago in an effort to protect gun rights.

Another Flock opponent, Chris Plack, also addressed the donation fund issue.

“When it comes to 4912, an ordinance was written, the fund was created, money started moving through it, and somehow we got years down the road before we were having the conversation we’re having now today about whether the process was even proper,” Plack said.

He urged county officials to slow down when contemplating future policies.

“Take the time to look at it. Send it to the council. Ask our attorney to review it. Review the contracts and stress test it against the legal limitations,” Plack added.

Cassie Rolon, the Kosciusko County Libertarian Party chair, also addressed the commissioner and alleged, without evidence, that more cameras were apparently being installed. She sought details on the issue.

The commissioners listened, but did not respond.

 

The post Kosciusko County adjusting policy on donation funds following Flock controversy appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/000-flock-sky.png 300 packing shift volunteer spots remain open for upcoming Warsaw MobilePack https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/300-packing-shift-volunteer-spots-remain-open-for-upcoming-warsaw-mobilepack/ Tue, 22 Sep 2026 14:23:45 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=136327 News Release

WARSAW — The upcoming Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) Warsaw MobilePack is just two weeks away, and the group's Steering team is calling on the Warsaw community to help fill the final volunteer spots and close the remaining fundraising gap.

This year’s Hunger to Hope Warsaw MobilePack will take place October 5-8 at the Warsaw Community High School TRAC. Approximately 300 volunteer spots remain open, and the steering team is still working to raise the final $20,000 needed to fully fund the event.

The Warsaw MobilePack brings together students, families, businesses, churches and community members to pack nutritious meals that Feed My Starving Children distributes to children facing hunger around the world.

Warsaw Community Schools students will once again be an important part of the effort. All WCS middle school students will participate during the school day, along with groups of elementary students and WCS clubs and athletic teams.

The entire community is invited to participate during public packing sessions from 6–8 p.m. Monday, October 5; Tuesday, October 6; and Wednesday, October 7 at the WCHS TRAC.  Families, businesses, churches, teams and community organizations are encouraged to register together.

In addition to packing meals for children around the world, this year’s Warsaw MobilePack will also host a canned food drive to support local hunger needs in Kosciusko County. Volunteers and community members are encouraged to bring canned food donations to the event. High-need items include: Easy Mac, boxes of macaroni and cheese, canned meals/pasta (i.e. Chef Boyardee, ravioli), beef jerky, beef sticks, trail mix, boxes of oatmeal packets and microwavable rice pouches.

Community members can also support the MobilePack by making a financial contribution. A gift of just $106 provides a child with nutritious meals for an entire year.

Volunteer registration and donation information are available at warsawmobilepack.com.

The Warsaw MobilePack is made possible through the generosity of local businesses, churches, families and individuals. 2026 sponsors:

Hunger Impact Sponsors: Orchard Medical Development, SYM Financial Advisors, Zimmer Biomet and Warsaw Community Schools

Hunger Conqueror Sponsors: DePuy, Downtown Eatery, Maple Leaf Farms and Warsaw Community Church

Hunger Champion Sponsors: Digger Specialties Inc., Our House Real Estate, PayProTec and Wildman Business Group

Hunger Hero Sponsors: Anika, Bill & Kathy Hamman, G & G Hauling, Medtronic, Milestone Construction Company, Miller Cattle Company, Performance Services, Polk Equipment, Jasmine Gabriel-Schlitt Family Dentistry and TL Jackson Construction Inc.

Hunger Advocate Sponsors: Faith First Fellowship Church, Johnson Chiropractic, Julia Moore-Bailey Moore Foundation, Knights of Columbus Council 4511 and Warsaw Orthodontics.

The post 300 packing shift volunteer spots remain open for upcoming Warsaw MobilePack appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> News Release

WARSAW — The upcoming Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) Warsaw MobilePack is just two weeks away, and the group’s Steering team is calling on the Warsaw community to help fill the final volunteer spots and close the remaining fundraising gap.

This year’s Hunger to Hope Warsaw MobilePack will take place October 5-8 at the Warsaw Community High School TRAC. Approximately 300 volunteer spots remain open, and the steering team is still working to raise the final $20,000 needed to fully fund the event.

The Warsaw MobilePack brings together students, families, businesses, churches and community members to pack nutritious meals that Feed My Starving Children distributes to children facing hunger around the world.

Warsaw Community Schools students will once again be an important part of the effort. All WCS middle school students will participate during the school day, along with groups of elementary students and WCS clubs and athletic teams.

The entire community is invited to participate during public packing sessions from 6–8 p.m. Monday, October 5; Tuesday, October 6; and Wednesday, October 7 at the WCHS TRAC.  Families, businesses, churches, teams and community organizations are encouraged to register together.

In addition to packing meals for children around the world, this year’s Warsaw MobilePack will also host a canned food drive to support local hunger needs in Kosciusko County. Volunteers and community members are encouraged to bring canned food donations to the event. High-need items include: Easy Mac, boxes of macaroni and cheese, canned meals/pasta (i.e. Chef Boyardee, ravioli), beef jerky, beef sticks, trail mix, boxes of oatmeal packets and microwavable rice pouches.

Community members can also support the MobilePack by making a financial contribution. A gift of just $106 provides a child with nutritious meals for an entire year.

Volunteer registration and donation information are available at warsawmobilepack.com.

The Warsaw MobilePack is made possible through the generosity of local businesses, churches, families and individuals. 2026 sponsors:

Hunger Impact Sponsors: Orchard Medical Development, SYM Financial Advisors, Zimmer Biomet and Warsaw Community Schools

Hunger Conqueror Sponsors: DePuy, Downtown Eatery, Maple Leaf Farms and Warsaw Community Church

Hunger Champion Sponsors: Digger Specialties Inc., Our House Real Estate, PayProTec and Wildman Business Group

Hunger Hero Sponsors: Anika, Bill & Kathy Hamman, G & G Hauling, Medtronic, Milestone Construction Company, Miller Cattle Company, Performance Services, Polk Equipment, Jasmine Gabriel-Schlitt Family Dentistry and TL Jackson Construction Inc.

Hunger Advocate Sponsors: Faith First Fellowship Church, Johnson Chiropractic, Julia Moore-Bailey Moore Foundation, Knights of Columbus Council 4511 and Warsaw Orthodontics.

The post 300 packing shift volunteer spots remain open for upcoming Warsaw MobilePack appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-22-064526.png Kensington enters new phase of exterior renovations on Market Street office https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/kensington-enters-new-phase-of-exterior-renovations-on-market-street-office/ Tue, 22 Sep 2026 10:29:06 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=136317 Editor's note: This story has been updated to correct an address.

By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — Kensington Digital Media's extensive exterior renovations are continuing at its office at 216 W. Market St., in Warsaw.

[caption id="attachment_136319" align="alignright" width="420"] Employees of Kensington Digital Media celebrated another phase of exterior renovations Monday with the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce. Kensington received a second facade grant award from the chamber, which is provided by the city of Warsaw. Photo provided.[/caption]

The office building already has new siding and paint, and the next phase will include new windows, doors, awnings, and signage.

The entire project is expected to cost several hundred thousand dollars, and the company has received two $10,000 facade grants from the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce.

General Manager Woody Zimmerman said the investment speaks volumes about its commitment to the community.

"The goal is to have a building that employees are proud to go to work in, and a building that the city is proud to have in Warsaw," Zimmerman said following a brief celebration with chamber officials.

Work on the project is expected to be completed in 2027.

Above, two photos show a before (L) and after comparison of Kensington Digital Media’s exterior renovations currently underway at the company's offices at 116 W. Market St., in  Warsaw. Work on the property will continue into 2027. Photo provided.

The post Kensington enters new phase of exterior renovations on Market Street office appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> Editor’s note: This story has been updated to correct an address.

By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — Kensington Digital Media’s extensive exterior renovations are continuing at its office at 216 W. Market St., in Warsaw.

Employees of Kensington Digital Media celebrated another phase of exterior renovations Monday with the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce. Kensington received a second facade grant award from the chamber, which is provided by the city of Warsaw. Photo provided.

The office building already has new siding and paint, and the next phase will include new windows, doors, awnings, and signage.

The entire project is expected to cost several hundred thousand dollars, and the company has received two $10,000 facade grants from the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce.

General Manager Woody Zimmerman said the investment speaks volumes about its commitment to the community.

“The goal is to have a building that employees are proud to go to work in, and a building that the city is proud to have in Warsaw,” Zimmerman said following a brief celebration with chamber officials.

Work on the project is expected to be completed in 2027.

Above, two photos show a before (L) and after comparison of Kensington Digital Media’s exterior renovations currently underway at the company’s offices at 116 W. Market St., in  Warsaw. Work on the property will continue into 2027. Photo provided.

The post Kensington enters new phase of exterior renovations on Market Street office appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-22-053120-1.png Flock opponents seek to learn more about donation fund established by county commissioners https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/flock-opponents-seek-to-learn-more-about-donation-fund-established-by-county-commissioners/ Mon, 21 Sep 2026 12:16:28 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=136300 By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — A local group that led the charge against Flock Cameras in Kosciusko County will be seeking answers Tuesday when the county commissioners are expected to discuss the creation of an account used to fund the cameras.

An approval of the account appeared to bypass county council authority.

Attorney Travis McConnell brought up the issue recently, which led to the county auditor saying more details would be made available on Tuesday — at the same time the commissioners are expected to formally vote to end its contract with Flock Safety.

County attorney Ed Ormsby is expected to clarify issues at the meeting.

Chris Plack, another opponent of the cameras, posted on his Facebook page last week that more than $200,000 moved through the account in recent years to support the Flock program.

Plack posed the following question in his social media post:

"What legal authority allowed more than $200,000 to be spent through an account specifically designed to operate without County Council appropriation?"

County Council voted unanimously to defund the cameras on Sept. 10 after nearly 200 people sought to attend the council meeting.

About 120 people were inside the courthouse for the meeting, with many speaking against what they see as a growing web of public surveillance.

An estimated 80 others stood outside the courthouse steps and could be heard from inside yelling angrily as they listened online.

The following day, Prosecutor Brad Voelz announced the cameras would be taken down promptly.

Other than law enforcement, the prosecutor and a representative from Flock, nobody spoke in favor of continuing the program which used 31 installed cameras across the county.

Kosciusko County's action against Flock follows similar moves by communities across parts of northern Indiana in recent weeks.

The county commissioners are scheduled to meet at 9 a.m. Tuesday in the courtroom of the old courthouse.

The post Flock opponents seek to learn more about donation fund established by county commissioners appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — A local group that led the charge against Flock Cameras in Kosciusko County will be seeking answers Tuesday when the county commissioners are expected to discuss the creation of an account used to fund the cameras.

An approval of the account appeared to bypass county council authority.

Attorney Travis McConnell brought up the issue recently, which led to the county auditor saying more details would be made available on Tuesday — at the same time the commissioners are expected to formally vote to end its contract with Flock Safety.

County attorney Ed Ormsby is expected to clarify issues at the meeting.

Chris Plack, another opponent of the cameras, posted on his Facebook page last week that more than $200,000 moved through the account in recent years to support the Flock program.

Plack posed the following question in his social media post:

“What legal authority allowed more than $200,000 to be spent through an account specifically designed to operate without County Council appropriation?”

County Council voted unanimously to defund the cameras on Sept. 10 after nearly 200 people sought to attend the council meeting.

About 120 people were inside the courthouse for the meeting, with many speaking against what they see as a growing web of public surveillance.

An estimated 80 others stood outside the courthouse steps and could be heard from inside yelling angrily as they listened online.

The following day, Prosecutor Brad Voelz announced the cameras would be taken down promptly.

Other than law enforcement, the prosecutor and a representative from Flock, nobody spoke in favor of continuing the program which used 31 installed cameras across the county.

Kosciusko County’s action against Flock follows similar moves by communities across parts of northern Indiana in recent weeks.

The county commissioners are scheduled to meet at 9 a.m. Tuesday in the courtroom of the old courthouse.

The post Flock opponents seek to learn more about donation fund established by county commissioners appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/000-flock-sky.png Open houses in Warsaw, North Webster tout Rock Steady Boxing designed for those with Parkinson’s https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/open-houses-in-warsaw-north-webster-tout-rock-steady-boxing-designed-for-those-with-parkinsons/ Mon, 21 Sep 2026 10:46:29 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=136292 News Release

WARSAW — The Kosciusko Community YMCA invites people living with Parkinson’s
disease, along with their families and caregivers, to a Rock Steady Boxing open house on
Monday, Sept. 28, from 1–4 p.m. at the Downtown Warsaw YMCA at 575 W. Fort Wayne St., Warsaw.

Rock Steady Boxing is a Parkinson’s-specific exercise program that uses non-contact boxing- inspired movements along with exercises designed to challenge strength, balance, coordination, mobility and overall fitness. Participants work at their own ability level, and exercises can be modified to meet individual needs.

The Open House provides an opportunity to visit the program in a relaxed setting, meet Rock Steady coaches, see the equipment and exercises used in class, and ask questions about whether Rock Steady Boxing might be a good fit. No previous boxing or exercise experience is necessary.

“Rock Steady has become much more than an exercise class for our boxers,” said Tracy Frick, Chronic Disease Coordinator for the Kosciusko Community YMCA. “They challenge one another, encourage one another and build friendships with people who understand what it is like to live with Parkinson’s. We want people in our community to know that they don't have to be an athlete or have any boxing experience to walk through our doors. We will meet them where they are.”

Beginning in October, the Downtown Warsaw YMCA will offer Rock Steady Boxing three
afternoons each week, with programming designed to better meet participants at different
stages of Parkinson’s:

Mondays — Level 1–2: For boxers who are generally more independent and ready for a higher
level of challenge.
Wednesdays — Level 3–4: Designed for boxers who may benefit from additional assistance,
modifications and a more supported exercise environment.
Fridays — Mixed Levels: Bringing boxers of varying abilities together for a Parkinson’s-specific workout that can be modified for individual needs.

The YMCA also offers Rock Steady Boxing at its North Webster location, helping make
Parkinson’s-specific exercise more accessible to residents throughout Kosciusko County.
Those unable to attend the September event will have another opportunity to learn about the program at the North Webster Rock Steady Boxing Open House on Wednesday, October
28, from 3:00–5:00 p.m. The North Webster YMCA is located within the North Webster
Community Center at 301 N. Main St., North Webster.

For additional information about Rock Steady Boxing or the upcoming Open Houses, contact Tracy Frick at tfrick@kcymca.org.

The post Open houses in Warsaw, North Webster tout Rock Steady Boxing designed for those with Parkinson’s appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> News Release

WARSAW — The Kosciusko Community YMCA invites people living with Parkinson’s
disease, along with their families and caregivers, to a Rock Steady Boxing open house on
Monday, Sept. 28, from 1–4 p.m. at the Downtown Warsaw YMCA at 575 W. Fort Wayne St., Warsaw.

Rock Steady Boxing is a Parkinson’s-specific exercise program that uses non-contact boxing- inspired movements along with exercises designed to challenge strength, balance, coordination, mobility and overall fitness. Participants work at their own ability level, and exercises can be modified to meet individual needs.

The Open House provides an opportunity to visit the program in a relaxed setting, meet Rock Steady coaches, see the equipment and exercises used in class, and ask questions about whether Rock Steady Boxing might be a good fit. No previous boxing or exercise experience is necessary.

“Rock Steady has become much more than an exercise class for our boxers,” said Tracy Frick, Chronic Disease Coordinator for the Kosciusko Community YMCA. “They challenge one another, encourage one another and build friendships with people who understand what it is like to live with Parkinson’s. We want people in our community to know that they don’t have to be an athlete or have any boxing experience to walk through our doors. We will meet them where they are.”

Beginning in October, the Downtown Warsaw YMCA will offer Rock Steady Boxing three
afternoons each week, with programming designed to better meet participants at different
stages of Parkinson’s:

Mondays — Level 1–2: For boxers who are generally more independent and ready for a higher
level of challenge.
Wednesdays — Level 3–4: Designed for boxers who may benefit from additional assistance,
modifications and a more supported exercise environment.
Fridays — Mixed Levels: Bringing boxers of varying abilities together for a Parkinson’s-specific workout that can be modified for individual needs.

The YMCA also offers Rock Steady Boxing at its North Webster location, helping make
Parkinson’s-specific exercise more accessible to residents throughout Kosciusko County.
Those unable to attend the September event will have another opportunity to learn about the program at the North Webster Rock Steady Boxing Open House on Wednesday, October
28, from 3:00–5:00 p.m. The North Webster YMCA is located within the North Webster
Community Center at 301 N. Main St., North Webster.

For additional information about Rock Steady Boxing or the upcoming Open Houses, contact Tracy Frick at tfrick@kcymca.org.

The post Open houses in Warsaw, North Webster tout Rock Steady Boxing designed for those with Parkinson’s appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/0921-y-sky.png Slate Auto highlights innovation as electric truck maker ramps up toward production in Warsaw https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/slate-auto-highlights-innovation-as-electric-truck-maker-ramps-up-toward-production-in-warsaw/ Sat, 19 Sep 2026 13:38:15 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=136227 By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

[caption id="attachment_136230" align="alignright" width="300"] Photo of hard hat provided by Slate Auto.[/caption]

WARSAW — Slate Auto’s transformation of the old RR Donnelley printing plant in Warsaw into a high tech automotive production facility continues on schedule, according to the company which offered a glimpse on Friday into the changes.

Local media on Friday took a tour of part of the 1.3 million square foot property including the production area that was gutted and brought back to life over the past year.

The start-up automotive company seeks to shake up the market with a stripped-down "Blank Slate" vehicle with a price of $24,950.

More than 180,000 people previously placed a refundable $50 reservation and more than 10,000 have now placed $300 down payments.

“We’re really excited that we have the reservations to prove this is the truck that America wants," said Jeff Jablansky, Slate's head of public relations and communications.

Dan Tasiemski, Slate's head of manufacturing engineering, said they remain on schedule to begin production in the fourth quarter.

Friday's tour focused on part of the production area, which looks like a new plant, already busy with employees and contractors moving across newly installed heavy duty cement flooring.

Jablansky said the factory is essentially "full and basically ready to start building.”

The tour on golf carts included a stop in the body shop where robots could be seen moving behind what looked like wire cages, moving quietly and efficiently.

"The body shop alone (has) 374 robots and just behind us, we're adding 20-plus over here, so this building alone will have over 400 robots in it," Tasiemski said.

The ongoing ramp-up is currently in the design validation phase of the prototype process, which is one step ahead of building production vehicles, Tasiemski said.

[caption id="attachment_136255" align="alignright" width="380"] Dan Tasiemski, Slate's head of manufacturing engineering, stands in front of a work station on the assembly line that moves up and down for better ergonomics. News Now Warsaw photo by Dan Spalding.[/caption]

Eventually, the company plans to push about 35 trucks an hour through the assembly process. At peak production, the company will use three shifts of workers spanning 20 hours.

The tour also took reporters over a stretch of outdoor pavement that felt like an intense and lengthy rumble strip. The company calls it the BSR, (short for buzz, squeak, rattle) that is part of quality control.

Slate also highlighted how work stations on the assembly line can moves up and down for better ergonomics.

Construction of a 133,000 square-foot extension of the production building is currently under way.

Slate has headquarters in Michigan and other offices in California, and has already hired 575 people for the Warsaw facility. Eventually, the company plans to employ around 2,000 and continues to hire aggressively.

The company is currently hiring, with an emphasis on attracting local workers.

“We need and we want those local candidates … to be a part of this team,” said Stacy Burk, head of plant human resources, “My goal, and I think a lot of the leadership's goal here is to create a generational place.” 

Workers, she said, will need “a willingness to be part of something fun. I tell them, 'You know, if you want to come to a company that's got a great culture, come here. You will want to be a part of this. You'll want to come to work every day.' ”

Below are photos taken during the tour by News Now Warsaw.

[caption id="attachment_136260" align="aligncenter" width="752"] Plans to construct an extension of the automotive production area are underway.[/caption]

 

 

 

 

The post Slate Auto highlights innovation as electric truck maker ramps up toward production in Warsaw appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw
Photo of hard hat provided by Slate Auto.

WARSAW — Slate Auto’s transformation of the old RR Donnelley printing plant in Warsaw into a high tech automotive production facility continues on schedule, according to the company which offered a glimpse on Friday into the changes.

Local media on Friday took a tour of part of the 1.3 million square foot property including the production area that was gutted and brought back to life over the past year.

The start-up automotive company seeks to shake up the market with a stripped-down “Blank Slate” vehicle with a price of $24,950.

More than 180,000 people previously placed a refundable $50 reservation and more than 10,000 have now placed $300 down payments.

“We’re really excited that we have the reservations to prove this is the truck that America wants,” said Jeff Jablansky, Slate’s head of public relations and communications.

Dan Tasiemski, Slate’s head of manufacturing engineering, said they remain on schedule to begin production in the fourth quarter.

Friday’s tour focused on part of the production area, which looks like a new plant, already busy with employees and contractors moving across newly installed heavy duty cement flooring.

Jablansky said the factory is essentially “full and basically ready to start building.”

The tour on golf carts included a stop in the body shop where robots could be seen moving behind what looked like wire cages, moving quietly and efficiently.

“The body shop alone (has) 374 robots and just behind us, we’re adding 20-plus over here, so this building alone will have over 400 robots in it,” Tasiemski said.

The ongoing ramp-up is currently in the design validation phase of the prototype process, which is one step ahead of building production vehicles, Tasiemski said.

Dan Tasiemski, Slate’s head of manufacturing engineering, stands in front of a work station on the assembly line that moves up and down for better ergonomics. News Now Warsaw photo by Dan Spalding.

Eventually, the company plans to push about 35 trucks an hour through the assembly process. At peak production, the company will use three shifts of workers spanning 20 hours.

The tour also took reporters over a stretch of outdoor pavement that felt like an intense and lengthy rumble strip. The company calls it the BSR, (short for buzz, squeak, rattle) that is part of quality control.

Slate also highlighted how work stations on the assembly line can moves up and down for better ergonomics.

Construction of a 133,000 square-foot extension of the production building is currently under way.

Slate has headquarters in Michigan and other offices in California, and has already hired 575 people for the Warsaw facility. Eventually, the company plans to employ around 2,000 and continues to hire aggressively.

The company is currently hiring, with an emphasis on attracting local workers.

“We need and we want those local candidates … to be a part of this team,” said Stacy Burk, head of plant human resources, “My goal, and I think a lot of the leadership’s goal here is to create a generational place.” 

Workers, she said, will need “a willingness to be part of something fun. I tell them, ‘You know, if you want to come to a company that’s got a great culture, come here. You will want to be a part of this. You’ll want to come to work every day.’ ”

Below are photos taken during the tour by News Now Warsaw.

Plans to construct an extension of the automotive production area are underway.

 

 

 

 

The post Slate Auto highlights innovation as electric truck maker ramps up toward production in Warsaw appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-19-050826.png New non-profit, Make Room, locks arms with nurses, other groups to fight hunger https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/new-non-profit-make-room-locks-arms-with-nurses-other-groups-to-fight-hunger/ Fri, 18 Sep 2026 17:21:50 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=136147 By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — A relatively new entity focused on reducing hunger in local schools has gained its non-profit status this year, and is coordinating efforts with 17 schools and local existing agencies to reduce hunger.

The organization, known as Make Room, began about two years ago with two women, Amelia Allen and Brooke Ridenour, who were volunteering at the time at a local school when they realized that there were geographical gaps in the coverage of an existing summer food program run by local schools. They then identified neighborhoods where food insecurity was apparent and began providing lunches on a regular schedule.

“Once we saw that gap, we just asked ourselves, if these children can't reach the food, why don't we just bring it to them?” Allen said. “And so that's how Make Room got started."

[caption id="attachment_136150" align="alignright" width="382"] The local group, Make Room, works with a wide variety of groups to help fight hunger, and the food giveaway mentioned above is one of their ongoing efforts. Look for details toward the end of this article.[/caption]

Allen was joined by Ridenour for this week's In the Know, the public affairs show you can hear this weekend on Kensington Digital Media radio stations.

The core group of supporters quickly jelled.

"And we brought different strengths to the table, but we were not intimidated by the size of the problem. We decided that even if we can't solve the whole problem, we might as well give it a try,” Ridenour said.

They then began coordinating with school nurses to identify instances of hunger. Officials reach out to parents with an offer to assist.

During the school year, they also provide immediate food packs to students, a program overseen by Mallory Detweiler, who also does marketing for Make Room.

Families, they said, have embraced the support.

Make Room is now coordinating efforts with 17 school nurses in the Warsaw and Wawsee school districts in an effort to identify specific cases of hunger.

This year, they've been able to assist 2,600 students with food assistance and other supportive programs.

Allen recalls the time she was making small talk with a first grader while volunteering and realized how bad his situation was.

“I asked him, 'What did you have for dinner last night? And he began listing everything that he had been served for breakfast at school that morning. And I said to him, 'Oh, no, no, no, that's what you had for breakfast. What did you have for dinner? And he looked at me and said, 'I don't have food at home. So that was my dinner.' "

Establishing its non-profit status is another boost to its longterm goal, Ridenour said.

“That has allowed us to build a board, develop community partnerships, fundraise, apply for grants, and really put the foundation in place for Make Room to hopefully be sustainable and a lasting resource that schools, kids, and our community members can rely on,” Ridenour said.

They credit their early success with strong support from nurses and a large number of local agencies and volunteers.

Make Room is also partnering with local groups in different ways. One includes a fundraiser with Warsaw Education Foundation.

Another is a food giveaway on Sept. 26 at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds in which Make Way is partnering with the Milford Food Bank. The drive-through event runs from 9 to 11 a.m. and is open to local families in need of additional food support.

Allen said they are currently asking people to consider giving $10 a month to help keep their Immediate Food Packs stocked in 17 local schools. You can learn more about that by clicking here.

Also, to learn more about the organization, go to makeroomtoday.org.

[caption id="attachment_136152" align="aligncenter" width="877"] Pictured above is the culmination of a big packing event over the summer for the group's summer Food Program. Together, participants packed 650 family grocery boxes and 2,400 individual food bags to help make sure children and families in our community had food throughout the summer. Photo provided.[/caption]

Below are broadcast times for this week's public affairs show, In The Know.

News Now Warsaw (99.7 FM and 1480 AM):

Friday at 9 am and 5 pm

Saturday at 7 am

Sunday at 7 am

WRSW (107.3 FM)

Sunday at 6 am

WILLIE (103.5 FM)

Saturday at 7 am

The post New non-profit, Make Room, locks arms with nurses, other groups to fight hunger appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — A relatively new entity focused on reducing hunger in local schools has gained its non-profit status this year, and is coordinating efforts with 17 schools and local existing agencies to reduce hunger.

The organization, known as Make Room, began about two years ago with two women, Amelia Allen and Brooke Ridenour, who were volunteering at the time at a local school when they realized that there were geographical gaps in the coverage of an existing summer food program run by local schools. They then identified neighborhoods where food insecurity was apparent and began providing lunches on a regular schedule.

“Once we saw that gap, we just asked ourselves, if these children can’t reach the food, why don’t we just bring it to them?” Allen said. “And so that’s how Make Room got started.”

The local group, Make Room, works with a wide variety of groups to help fight hunger, and the food giveaway mentioned above is one of their ongoing efforts. Look for details toward the end of this article.

Allen was joined by Ridenour for this week’s In the Know, the public affairs show you can hear this weekend on Kensington Digital Media radio stations.

The core group of supporters quickly jelled.

“And we brought different strengths to the table, but we were not intimidated by the size of the problem. We decided that even if we can’t solve the whole problem, we might as well give it a try,” Ridenour said.

They then began coordinating with school nurses to identify instances of hunger. Officials reach out to parents with an offer to assist.

During the school year, they also provide immediate food packs to students, a program overseen by Mallory Detweiler, who also does marketing for Make Room.

Families, they said, have embraced the support.

Make Room is now coordinating efforts with 17 school nurses in the Warsaw and Wawsee school districts in an effort to identify specific cases of hunger.

This year, they’ve been able to assist 2,600 students with food assistance and other supportive programs.

Allen recalls the time she was making small talk with a first grader while volunteering and realized how bad his situation was.

“I asked him, ‘What did you have for dinner last night? And he began listing everything that he had been served for breakfast at school that morning. And I said to him, ‘Oh, no, no, no, that’s what you had for breakfast. What did you have for dinner? And he looked at me and said, ‘I don’t have food at home. So that was my dinner.’ “

Establishing its non-profit status is another boost to its longterm goal, Ridenour said.

“That has allowed us to build a board, develop community partnerships, fundraise, apply for grants, and really put the foundation in place for Make Room to hopefully be sustainable and a lasting resource that schools, kids, and our community members can rely on,” Ridenour said.

They credit their early success with strong support from nurses and a large number of local agencies and volunteers.

Make Room is also partnering with local groups in different ways. One includes a fundraiser with Warsaw Education Foundation.

Another is a food giveaway on Sept. 26 at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds in which Make Way is partnering with the Milford Food Bank. The drive-through event runs from 9 to 11 a.m. and is open to local families in need of additional food support.

Allen said they are currently asking people to consider giving $10 a month to help keep their Immediate Food Packs stocked in 17 local schools. You can learn more about that by clicking here.

Also, to learn more about the organization, go to makeroomtoday.org.

Pictured above is the culmination of a big packing event over the summer for the group’s summer Food Program. Together, participants packed 650 family grocery boxes and 2,400 individual food bags to help make sure children and families in our community had food throughout the summer. Photo provided.

Below are broadcast times for this week’s public affairs show, In The Know.

News Now Warsaw (99.7 FM and 1480 AM):

Friday at 9 am and 5 pm

Saturday at 7 am

Sunday at 7 am

WRSW (107.3 FM)

Sunday at 6 am

WILLIE (103.5 FM)

Saturday at 7 am

The post New non-profit, Make Room, locks arms with nurses, other groups to fight hunger appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/0918-make-room-sky.png Fellowship Missions plans on opening transitional homes with support from Opioid revenue https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/136136-2/ Fri, 18 Sep 2026 11:02:55 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=136136 By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — Fellowship Missions is preparing to open four transitional homes in coming months in Kosciusko County.

Much of the funding has already been lined up, but Fellowship Missions, which operates a homeless shelter in Warsaw, was granted $175,000 in opioid settlement money allocated by a Kosciusko County committee on Thursday.

The plan is to open two houses for men, another for women, and a fourth that will serve mothers with children at the old Riverwood Ranch property on Old Road 30 in Warsaw by the end of the year.

On Thursday, Lane was seeking financial support from a Kosciusko County committee that oversees the allocation of money from the federal opioid settlement.

He calls the program "Next Step Housing."

"What we were asking for today was for them to help us get an all-women's home as well," Lane said.

Fellowship Missions will oversee the properties.

"Everybody knows it's kind of tough to find housing right now in our community, and that's actually a big barrier for a lot of our residents trying to move on," Lane said. "And so we are actively seeking ways to help them better their lives, and housing is a big hurdle in that."

The county also provided money previously to purchase land that is now home to The Gathering Place in downtown Warsaw.

He expressed appreciation for Thursday's decision.

"Every little bit helps," he said. "I mean, I feel very fortunate, blessed that they approved what they did for us. I mean, my goodness!"

Two other groups also received opioid settlement money at the direction of a county committee.

LITE Recovery will receive $75,000 to expand services at its Milford youth center, known as Rise Up. Serenity House will receive $30,000 to be divided up to pay for small upgrades at three residential homes.

Fellowship had sought $200,000. LITE Recovery asked for $109,000 and Serenity wanted $30,000.

The committee is composed of Sue Ann Mitchell, Joe Irwin, and Tony Ciriello.

The post Fellowship Missions plans on opening transitional homes with support from Opioid revenue appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — Fellowship Missions is preparing to open four transitional homes in coming months in Kosciusko County.

Much of the funding has already been lined up, but Fellowship Missions, which operates a homeless shelter in Warsaw, was granted $175,000 in opioid settlement money allocated by a Kosciusko County committee on Thursday.

The plan is to open two houses for men, another for women, and a fourth that will serve mothers with children at the old Riverwood Ranch property on Old Road 30 in Warsaw by the end of the year.

On Thursday, Lane was seeking financial support from a Kosciusko County committee that oversees the allocation of money from the federal opioid settlement.

He calls the program “Next Step Housing.”

“What we were asking for today was for them to help us get an all-women’s home as well,” Lane said.

Fellowship Missions will oversee the properties.

“Everybody knows it’s kind of tough to find housing right now in our community, and that’s actually a big barrier for a lot of our residents trying to move on,” Lane said. “And so we are actively seeking ways to help them better their lives, and housing is a big hurdle in that.”

The county also provided money previously to purchase land that is now home to The Gathering Place in downtown Warsaw.

He expressed appreciation for Thursday’s decision.

“Every little bit helps,” he said. “I mean, I feel very fortunate, blessed that they approved what they did for us. I mean, my goodness!”

Two other groups also received opioid settlement money at the direction of a county committee.

LITE Recovery will receive $75,000 to expand services at its Milford youth center, known as Rise Up. Serenity House will receive $30,000 to be divided up to pay for small upgrades at three residential homes.

Fellowship had sought $200,000. LITE Recovery asked for $109,000 and Serenity wanted $30,000.

The committee is composed of Sue Ann Mitchell, Joe Irwin, and Tony Ciriello.

The post Fellowship Missions plans on opening transitional homes with support from Opioid revenue appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/city-hall-communty.jpg 19 apprehended in Kosciusko County Net43 drug operation https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/19-apprehended-in-kosciusko-county-net43-drug-operation/ Fri, 18 Sep 2026 10:37:50 +0000 https://www.newsnowwarsaw.com/?p=136129 Staff Report

WARSAW — A multi-month drug investigation involving covert surveillance and undercover operations wrapped up this week with the arrest of 19 people and a handful of others sought on warrants.

The operation was the work of NET 43, Kosciusko County's Drug Enforcement Unit, which coordinated work with the prosecutor's office as well as seven area police departments.

Many of the cases involved methamphetamine and one man was arrested on a gun charge. Fellowship Missions is preparing to open four transitional homes in the next year in Kosciusko County.

Those arrested and corresponding charges are listed below. Those sought on warrants are also listed.

JAVIER JUAREZ (Age 25) – Warsaw: 

Case 1: Dealing in Cocaine (≥ 10g) (Level 2 Felony) and other charges.

Case 2: Dealing in Cocaine (≥ 10g) (Level 2 Felony) and other charges.

DAMARES ARIANNA OROZCO TORRES (Age 26) – Warsaw:

Possession of Cocaine (Level 3 Felony) and other charges.

WILLIAM TODD HAMILTON (Age 58) – Warsaw:

Case 1: Dealing in Methamphetamine (Level 4 Felony) and other charges.

Case 2: Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony).

DANIEL JACOB MILLER (Age 32) – Bourbon:

Case 1: Possession of a Controlled Substance (Class A Misdemeanor).

Case 2: Possession of a Syringe (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

ELIJAH NEHMIAH WATKINS (Age 19) – Pierceton:

Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

JAIMEE NICHOLE MARSHALL (Age 30) – Warsaw:

Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

JODEAN M. NEHER (Age 57) – Claypool:

Possession of Methamphetamine w/ Enhancing Circumstances (Level 5 Felony) and other charges.

JOSHUA J. HAMILTON (Age 44) – Claypool:

Case 1: Dealing in a Controlled Substance (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

Case 2: Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

BRANDY MICHELLE BLACK (Age 45) – Claypool:

Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

JASMINE MARIE RHODES (Age 29) – Syracuse:

Dealing in Methamphetamine (Level 2 Felony) and other charges.

HALEY DAWN FOUNTAIN (Age 34) – Milford:

Case 1: Conspiracy to Commit a Felony (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.Case 2: Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

JUSTIN MICHAEL LEWALLEN (Age 44) – Syracuse:

Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon (Level 4 Felony) and other charges.

JOSIAH JAMES SHIVELY (Age 41) – Warsaw:

Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

TYLER DUANE OWENS (Age 40) – Warsaw:

Dealing in a Fentanyl-Containing Substance (≥ 1g) (Level 3 Felony) and other charges.

DYLAN DELROSS KING (Age 20) – Warsaw:

Possession of Marijuana (Class B Misdemeanor) and other charges.

BILLY JOE TRUEX (Age 42) – Warsaw:

Resisting Law Enforcement (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

AARON GUSTIN FULLER (Age 36) – Warsaw: 

Possession of Marijuana (Class B Misdemeanor) and other charges.

DEREK MICHAEL GRIM (Age 36) – North Webster:

Dealing in Methamphetamine (Level 5 Felony) and other charges.

JOSEPH LEE STEWART (Age 46) – Warsaw:

Charges: Possession of a Device or Substance to Interfere with a Drug or Alcohol Screening Test (Class B Misdemeanor).

OUTSTANDING WARRANTS AND SUMMONSES

Active warrants or summonses have been issued for the following individuals. Anyone with information regarding their location is urged to contact local law enforcement or the NET 43 tip line.

KERRY EDWARD FRIBLEY (Age 41) – Syracuse:

Charges: Dealing in a Narcotic Drug (≥ 5g) (Level 3 Felony) and other charges.

DONALD EDWARD TOOLEY (Age 44) – Claypool: 

Charges: Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

NICOLE LYNN WINSTEAD (Age 39) – Pierceton: Charges:

Possession of Methamphetamine w/ Enhancing Circumstances (Level 4 Felony) and other

charges.

KNIKOLAS DUSTIN DISBRO (Age 40) – Warsaw:

Charges: Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

JOSEPH LEE STEWART (Age 46) – Warsaw:

Charges: Possession of a Device or Substance to Interfere with a Drug or Alcohol Screening Test (Class  Misdemeanor).

 

The Narcotics Enforcement Team (NET 43) is a collaborative task force comprising officers and investigators from the Kosciusko County Prosecutor’s Office, the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, the Warsaw Police Department, the Winona Lake Police Department, and the Nappanee Police Department.

 

 

 

The post 19 apprehended in Kosciusko County Net43 drug operation appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

]]> Staff Report

WARSAW — A multi-month drug investigation involving covert surveillance and undercover operations wrapped up this week with the arrest of 19 people and a handful of others sought on warrants.

The operation was the work of NET 43, Kosciusko County’s Drug Enforcement Unit, which coordinated work with the prosecutor’s office as well as seven area police departments.

Many of the cases involved methamphetamine and one man was arrested on a gun charge. Fellowship Missions is preparing to open four transitional homes in the next year in Kosciusko County.

Those arrested and corresponding charges are listed below. Those sought on warrants are also listed.

JAVIER JUAREZ (Age 25) – Warsaw: 

Case 1: Dealing in Cocaine (≥ 10g) (Level 2 Felony) and other charges.

Case 2: Dealing in Cocaine (≥ 10g) (Level 2 Felony) and other charges.

DAMARES ARIANNA OROZCO TORRES (Age 26) – Warsaw:

Possession of Cocaine (Level 3 Felony) and other charges.

WILLIAM TODD HAMILTON (Age 58) – Warsaw:

Case 1: Dealing in Methamphetamine (Level 4 Felony) and other charges.

Case 2: Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony).

DANIEL JACOB MILLER (Age 32) – Bourbon:

Case 1: Possession of a Controlled Substance (Class A Misdemeanor).

Case 2: Possession of a Syringe (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

ELIJAH NEHMIAH WATKINS (Age 19) – Pierceton:

Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

JAIMEE NICHOLE MARSHALL (Age 30) – Warsaw:

Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

JODEAN M. NEHER (Age 57) – Claypool:

Possession of Methamphetamine w/ Enhancing Circumstances (Level 5 Felony) and other charges.

JOSHUA J. HAMILTON (Age 44) – Claypool:

Case 1: Dealing in a Controlled Substance (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

Case 2: Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

BRANDY MICHELLE BLACK (Age 45) – Claypool:

Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

JASMINE MARIE RHODES (Age 29) – Syracuse:

Dealing in Methamphetamine (Level 2 Felony) and other charges.

HALEY DAWN FOUNTAIN (Age 34) – Milford:

Case 1: Conspiracy to Commit a Felony (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.Case 2: Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

JUSTIN MICHAEL LEWALLEN (Age 44) – Syracuse:

Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon (Level 4 Felony) and other charges.

JOSIAH JAMES SHIVELY (Age 41) – Warsaw:

Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

TYLER DUANE OWENS (Age 40) – Warsaw:

Dealing in a Fentanyl-Containing Substance (≥ 1g) (Level 3 Felony) and other charges.

DYLAN DELROSS KING (Age 20) – Warsaw:

Possession of Marijuana (Class B Misdemeanor) and other charges.

BILLY JOE TRUEX (Age 42) – Warsaw:

Resisting Law Enforcement (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

AARON GUSTIN FULLER (Age 36) – Warsaw: 

Possession of Marijuana (Class B Misdemeanor) and other charges.

DEREK MICHAEL GRIM (Age 36) – North Webster:

Dealing in Methamphetamine (Level 5 Felony) and other charges.

JOSEPH LEE STEWART (Age 46) – Warsaw:

Charges: Possession of a Device or Substance to Interfere with a Drug or Alcohol Screening Test (Class B Misdemeanor).

OUTSTANDING WARRANTS AND SUMMONSES

Active warrants or summonses have been issued for the following individuals. Anyone with information regarding their location is urged to contact local law enforcement or the NET 43 tip line.

KERRY EDWARD FRIBLEY (Age 41) – Syracuse:

Charges: Dealing in a Narcotic Drug (≥ 5g) (Level 3 Felony) and other charges.

DONALD EDWARD TOOLEY (Age 44) – Claypool: 

Charges: Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

NICOLE LYNN WINSTEAD (Age 39) – Pierceton: Charges:

Possession of Methamphetamine w/ Enhancing Circumstances (Level 4 Felony) and other

charges.

KNIKOLAS DUSTIN DISBRO (Age 40) – Warsaw:

Charges: Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony) and other charges.

JOSEPH LEE STEWART (Age 46) – Warsaw:

Charges: Possession of a Device or Substance to Interfere with a Drug or Alcohol Screening Test (Class  Misdemeanor).

 

The Narcotics Enforcement Team (NET 43) is a collaborative task force comprising officers and investigators from the Kosciusko County Prosecutor’s Office, the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, the Warsaw Police Department, the Winona Lake Police Department, and the Nappanee Police Department.

 

 

 

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