WARSAW — Warsaw officials have been lobbying for years for a specific site for construction of a VA clinic, and on Monday, one official said they’re eyeing a location on CR 200N near Parkview Kosciusko Hospital.

Efforts to bring a VA clinic to Warsw have been underway for several years, and Jeremy Skinner, director of community & economic development, said Monday they found an entity that agreed to place it adjacent to other recently constructed medical offices along CR 200N.

The US Department of Veterans Affairs has increasingly relied on the use of third-party entities for construction projects.

Skinnner said they've been lobbying for that property because of its proximity to Parkview, Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital and US 30.

Skinner brought up the issue Monday at a city redevelopment commission meeting and said they are working on a memo of understanding that would be part of a sale of the land from Parkview Health to an unidentified LLC.

The clinic is expected to be about 16,000 square feet, and Skinner said they hope construction could begin this year or next.

The project is expected to cost roughly seven to eight million dollars, and Skinner said the city is ready to provide $1 million to cover some of the development costs.

Neither the MOU nor the financial transaction has been approved by the city, but Skinner addressed the rationale on Monday.

"When you think about the benefit that this will offer all of the veterans in Kosciusko County, people who have served our country, giving them easy access to the health care that they need in a shorter distance, a shorter travel ... that's definitely worth the city's participation," Skinner said.

He was also asked if the plan would come together if not for the city's financial support.

"They' ve been trying to put on (in Warsaw) for the last five years," Skinner said. "Does this help get it done? I think so, yes."

Money for the project would come from one of several tax increment finance funds controlled by the city.

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WARSAW — Two programs aimed at supporting those with Parkinson's disease have been announced in Warsaw this week.

The first is a new program overseen by Kosciusko Community YMCA, which will host a Rock Steady Boxing open house on Friday, Jan. 16, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Downtown Warsaw YMCA, 575 W. Fort Wayne St.

Rock Steady Boxing is an evidence-based, non-contact fitness program specifically designed for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease.

It’s inspired by the training methods of boxing and the program helps participants improve balance, mobility, strength, coordination, and overall daily function, while working to slow the progression of symptoms in a safe and supportive environment.

The program is designed to empower participants to live stronger, healthier, and more confident lives while connecting with others who are on a similar journey.

During the open house, attendees will have the opportunity to learn how the program works, tour the newly developed Rock Steady Boxing space, meet the YMCA’s three certified Rock Steady Boxing coaches, and ask questions about class structure, training methods, and what to expect. Staff will also be available to discuss membership and class options.

Meanwhile, a Parkinson’s support group will meet will hold its monthly meeting on Friday, Jan. 9 at 6:30 p.m. in the Administration Classroom at Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital, 2101 E. DuBois Drive, Warsaw.

The meeting is free and open to individuals with Parkinson’s disease, family members, care partners, and community members.

Cases of Parkinson’s have grown significantly in recent decades.

In 1990, 2.6 million people worldwide had Parkinson’s. As of 2025, that number has risen to 11.8 million, making Parkinson’s the fastest-growing neurological disease in the world, surpassing Alzheimer’s disease. Initial projections estimated 12 million cases by 2035, a number nearly reached a decade early.

January’s discussion will focus on The Parkinson’s Plan, a book by Dr. Ray Dorsey that explores the global rise of Parkinson’s disease and outlines strategies for prevention and improved quality of life. 

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WARSAW — Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital has announced the upcoming
retirement of its celebrated Chief Nursing Officer Kimberly Finch, effective Aug. 1.

She will conclude a remarkable career of 41 years dedicated to advancing patient care,
growing nursing support and shaping the future of Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital.

“The best part of my job was staff development; watching staff grow in nursing positions and ancillary staff become nurses. One of my favorite things was recognizing nurses for impacting patients' lives. I have been truly blessed to interact with so many great staff members, leaders, and providers within the network and CHS,” Finch said.

Since joining Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital on May 30, 1984, Finch has been an
instrumental leader, overseeing all nursing operations and playing a pivotal role in several
renovation projects, starting the operation of the Medstat program, and most recently, the
renovation of the surgical department and implementation of the surgical robotic program.

Finch has held many positions throughout her tenure, including manager and director of
ER/oncology/urgent care, quality auditor and medical staff director, compliance officer, and
physician recruiter.

“For over four decades, Kim has been the heart and soul of our nursing team, embodying
compassion, innovation, and unwavering dedication. Her leadership has left a mark on our
institution, fostering a culture of compassion that will continue to benefit our community for
years to come,” said Chad Towner, chief executive officer of Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital.

“I would like to be remembered as a leader who championed the advancement of nursing
excellence while focusing on patient safety and quality. What I look forward to most in
retirement will be spending time with my loved ones and traveling more,” said Finch.

Lutheran Health Network is a family of more than 6,000 employees, physicians, advanced practice providers and volunteers. For more information, visit LutheranHealth.net.

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KYLA taking applications for next year

WARSAW — Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy is now accepting applications for the 2025-26 academic year.

High school students who will be juniors in fall 2025 are eligible to apply.

Applicants can apply from the following schools: Warsaw Community High School, Lakeland Christian Academy, Wawasee High School, Tippecanoe Valley High School, Triton High School, Whitko High School, NorthWood and Fairfield High School. Other area students attending a high school not mentioned (if you reside in Kosciusko County) are welcome to apply along with homeschooled Kosciusko County students.

Deadline is Tuesday May 20. Additional questions can be directed to Carl Lauster, KYLA president, at 574-269-2932 between the hours of  9 am to 5 pm.

Applications can be filed online here and then look for the "apply" tab.

Pierceton will celebrate new sidewalks on May 29

Pierceton will celebrate its combined 2,600 feet of new sidewalk with a ribbon cutting on May 29.

The Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program (HELP) Kosciusko and the town of Pierceton will host a ribbon-cutting at 4 p.m. at the corner of Third Street and Pierceton Elementary School. 

The project spans the east side of Seventh Street, the south side of School Street and the east side of Third Street. 

Improvements include the installation of 6-foot-wide concrete sidewalks, ADA-compliant ramps, driveway enhancements and grass seeding.

LKH workshop looks at emergency first aid

WARSAW — Learn fundamental lifesaving techniques from Lutheran EMS and Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital staff during the next LKH Community Health session on Thursday, May 15 from 8:30 am - 9:30 am in the LKH Administration Classroom, 2101 E. DuBois Dr., Warsaw.

Engage in four processes of emergency first aid: assess, plan, execute and evaluate.
Join us for a morning of fundamental practical instruction.

Topics include:
• Introduction to CPR basics
• Administering opioid overdose medication: when and how to use it
• Stop a bleed
• Signs of a stroke - BE FAST
• Adult and infant choking

A question-and-answer session will follow the presentation.

Those interested in attending can call 260-435-7787 or email CommunityRelations@LHN.net.

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WARSAW — Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce enjoyed another memorable year with record-setting membership and put the spotlight on local businesses and leaders with another soldout annual dinner Thursday at the Manahan Orthopaedic Capital Center in Winona Lake.

The chamber honored Leon Horn as the Man of the Year and Becky Walls as the Woman of the Year.

Among the many other awards, Winona Lake Town Manager Craig Allebach was honored with the government excellence award and Parkview Health received the Business of the Year Award.

See the full list of award winners below.

Chamber president Rob Parker highlighted top community issues in a short address and urged people to remain engaged in the US 30 project

"Because when we fix US 30 — we take out the stoplights and it becomes a freeway — we can get from here to Fort Wayne in under 30 minutes which means Fort Wayne would be a suburb of Warsaw," Parker said, drawing laughs.

Parker also announced Scott Wiley, the chamber’s member relations manager, who has been a big part of hundreds of Chamber social media videos, is stepping down from his position.

Parker thanked Wiley for his role and impact and Wiley was then greeted with a sustained round of applause in appreciation of his work.

Below is a full list of awards based on a news release from the Chamber.

Parker recognized Lake City Bank as the recipient of the Chamber’s second annual Legacy Impact award. The award honors a business that has been a part of the Kosciusko  County business community for at least 75 years.  

The LaunchPad Impact award, which recognizes a business that provides innovative and creative  solutions to childcare needs in the community was presented to the Kosciusko Community YMCA. Stillwater Hospice was this year’s award sponsor, and it was presented by Leslie Freidel. 

The Main Street Impact Award, sponsored by PNC Bank and presented by Catherine Hill, was awarded to Atelier. Honorable Mention for the Main Street Impact Award was given to Glam Boutique and  Generous Coffee.  

The Making a Difference Award was sponsored by K21 Health Foundation and presented by Rich  Haddad. The award was given to Cardinal Services. Honorable Mention for the Making a Difference  award was given to Big Brothers Big Sisters and Moving Pictures Tattoo Cinema.  

The Rising Star Award is given to Kosciusko County’s highest-performing new company. This year, the award, sponsored by Horizon Bank and presented by Sonja Hesser, was awarded to The River Coffeehouse. Honorable Mention for the Rising Star Award was given to CS Portables and Envision  Design.  

The Community Development Award, honoring a business that has shown an outstanding contribution to community development in Kosciusko County, was sponsored by Old National Bank and presented by Sandra Parra. This year’s recipient was The Barn 1880. Honorable Mention for the Community  Development Award was given to D.R. Horton and Milestone Construction.  

This year’s Business of the Year Award was sponsored by Lake City Bank. Chris Wiggins presented the award to Parkview Health. Honorable Mention for the Business of the Year Award was given to Grace  Village and Warsaw Chemical.  

Lauren Twombly, the Chamber’s Director of Marketing and Communications presented the Chamber Ambassador of the Year Award to Stacey Leek from Stillwater Hospice. 

The Kosciusko Young Adult Professional of the Year Award was sponsored by Crossroads Bank and presented by John Warren. YAP is a group of business professionals under the age of 40 who are active in the community. This year’s recipient was Leo Patino with Warsaw Community Schools.  

Tabitha McDonalds presented the Government Excellence Award, sponsored by Zimmer Biomet, to Winona Lake Town Manager, Craig Allebach.  

The final awards presented for the evening were the highly anticipated Man and Woman of the Year  Awards. These awards were co-sponsored by 1st Source Bank and Times-Union.  

Doug Hanes of 1st Source Bank then presented the Man of the Year Award. Hanes stated that, “our man  of the year has quietly shaped the fabric of Kosciusko County, using his wisdom, integrity, and  generosity to make our community a better place. For anyone who has spent time walking around  Kosciusko County with him, it’s immediately apparent how deeply he’s embedded in the community.  The number of people he knows and the conversations he shares with them are a testament to his far-reaching influence. Yet, despite all his accomplishments, he remains remarkably humble, never seeking  recognition or accolades for his efforts.” The 2024 Man of the Year is Leon Horn.  

David Slone of Times Union presented the Woman of the Year Award saying that, “our Woman of the  Year is a truly exceptional individual whose dedication, compassion, and leadership have transformed countless lives in Kosciusko County. If one had even half the passion and dedication that she has for the  Special Olympics, they would still be an extraordinary force for change. Her unwavering commitment is  truly unmatched, and she sets a standard for leadership, compassion, and perseverance that inspires  everyone around her.” The 2024 Woman of the Year is Becky Walls. 

Dinner was prepared by The LakeSide in Syracuse. 

The major sponsors for the event included Lake City Bank, 1st Source Bank, 1Eighty Digital, Blue River Digital, Bowen Health, Core Mechanical Services,  DreamOn Studios, Grace College & Seminary, Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital, Maple Leaf Farms, Robinson  Construction, Silveus Insurance Group, Warsaw GMC, Winona IT, and Wildman.  

The evening’s keynote speaker was Vanessa Green Sinders, President & CEO of the Indiana Chamber of  Commerce. Green Sinders was interviewed by Lake City Bank President & Chief Executive Officer, David  Findlay. 

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WARSAW — Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital celebrated the completion of a $30 million expansion and renovation on Tuesday with a ribbon cutting and open house.

Community and hospital leadership included representatives from the LKH board, medical staff, city and chamber who provided comments during the ceremony that was held inside the newly redesigned lobby.

“The medical staff at Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital has been committed to the delivery of
quality healthcare services to our patients since 1976. This renovation and expansion makes access to care more convenient and comfortable for our patients, visitors, doctors and employees,” said Dr. Brian Reichenbach, Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital medical staff member and LKH board of trustees member.

“The ongoing investment is a priority for the hospital and we hope our patients are pleased with the improvements,” he added.

The project includes 25,700 square feet of new construction and renovations and includes:

• An expanded, redesigned lobby with new public entry
  Renovations to all patient rooms, public spaces and nursing stations on the
  medical, surgical and intensive care units
• Updates to the hospital façade
• New campus exterior signage to enhance patient wayfinding
• Surgical services expansion and updates, including:
• Expanded pre- and post-surgical bays with additional spaces for
  increased patient privacy and more room for family members to be with
  loved ones
• Renovation of existing operating room so surgeons can accommodate
  more complex cases, allowing patients to be scheduled sooner and
  remain close to home when surgery is needed
• Expanded sterile processing area with new technology for faster
  equipment sterilization

Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital is also the area’s only hospital with both an accredited chest
pain center and accredited stroke center. The hospital offers a variety of quality services
close to home, including emergency care, an urgent care center, a birthing center, heart and stroke care, orthopedics, occupational health, rehabilitation services, a sleep center, a wound care center and a cancer care center providing radiation therapy.

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WARSAW — Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital (LKH) announced today that outpatient medical oncology services provided through the hospital’s LKH Cancer Center will end on June 30.

Medical oncology involves treatment for certain types of cancers using medications, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy, to destroy and change tumors and cancer cells. Radiation oncology services will continue to be offered at this center and are not
affected by this change. Radiation oncology is the treatment of cancers using radiation.

There are other medical oncology programs in the area, including Warsaw. Patients receiving medical oncology treatment at the LKH Cancer Center are being notified directly and provided with support to transition their care. Patients with questions can call this information line: (574) 549-6990.

“We recognize the need to shift treatment to a different center may cause concern among our patients, and we want to quickly alleviate concerns. We will work with our patients and the other area treatment centers to make this transition as smooth as possible,”  said Lynn Mergen, LKH Chief Executive Officer.

“While we had hoped to continue this service indefinitely, we have been unable to secure a full time permanent medical oncologist to oversee management of this program. We are grateful to the team who has been supporting the delivery of high-quality care for many years,” he said.

The organization is actively seeking transfer assignments and other roles within LKH and across the broader Lutheran Health Network for staff and providers affected by the change.

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WARSAW — The basics of first aid will be taught at the next community health series presentation at Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital on Thursday, April 25 beginning at 8:30 a.m.

Lutheran EMS leadership and Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital educators will teach the fundamentals of emergency first aid.

Participants can actively engage in the four crucial processes of emergency first aid: assess, plan, execute and evaluate. Attendees will be divided into groups during this session to receive practical instruction. The education is designed for all age groups. Highlights include:
• Introduction to the basics of CPR
• Administering Narcan: when and how to use
• How to stop a bleed in an emergency situation
• Signs of a stroke: BE FAST
• What to do if an adult or infant is choking

Additionally, attendees can renew or receive CPR certification for $20 payable by cash or
check.

This community session will take place in the hospital’s administrative classroom. Please
RSVP by Monday, April 22 by calling (260) 435-7787 or emailing
CommunityRelations@LHN.net.

The Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital Community Health Series features monthly medical experts educating and encouraging the community to live a healthier lifestyle.

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WARSAW — To help address hunger in the community and in celebration of National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day on Tuesday, Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital (LKH) collected 1,754 jars of peanut and other nut butters for Combined Community Services.

The jars were donated by Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital employees, medical staff members,
volunteers and residents during a recent Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive which
was launched to help support neighbors facing food insecurity — a social determinant of health.

“Food insecurity has a significant impact on a person’s overall health and wellbeing,” said Lynn Mergen, chief executive officer for LKH.

“Through our Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive, we are working to help fight hunger in our community. Our generous medical staff, Walsh Construction team working on our expansion, community members and employees really stepped up and exceeded our donation expectations,” Mergen said.

Combined Community Services serves hundreds of families a month and peanut butter is one of the high-demand food items food banks can provide to offer a protein source that has an extended shelf life.

All Lutheran Health Network hospitals participated in the drive collecting a total of 3,451 jars of nut butters that were donated to area food banks in Fort Wayne, Warsaw, Peru and Bluffton.

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WARSAW — While birthing centers in Indiana and elsewhere continue to close, there’s a glimmer of good news for Kosciusko County residents.

Parkview Health, which announced the closing of two birthing centers in its network over the past year, announced Thursday that it would shut down another — this one at Parkview Whitley Hospital in Columbia City.

“The Parkview Whitley Hospital Family Birthing Center will be relocated to the new Parkview Kosciusko Hospital this fall,” according to a statement issued by the hospital.

Other types of gynecology care in Whitley County will remain open, and the hospital’s emergency department will remain equipped to care for pregnant women who may be experiencing a medical emergency, the hospital said.

The birthing center at Parkview Kosciusko Hospital in Warsaw is expected to open Sept. 1.

The new PKH Family Birthing Center will feature seven labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum rooms, as well as two outpatient/triage rooms, the hospital said.

Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital in Warsaw also has a birthing center.

All employees at Parkview Whitley Hospital affected by the service transfer have been offered roles at Parkview Kosciusko Hospital or somewhere else at Parkview Health.

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