Willie 103.5 https://www.willie1035.com/ Warsaw's FUN Country Fri, 17 Apr 2026 10:58:13 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Venture Challenge gets students going on the road to entrepreneurship https://www.willie1035.com/venture-challenge-gets-students-going-on-the-road-to-entrepreneurship/ Fri, 17 Apr 2026 10:05:33 +0000 https://www.willie1035.com/venture-challenge-gets-students-going-on-the-road-to-entrepreneurship/ By David Slone
Times-Union

WINONA LAKE — High schoolers in the Kosciusko Student Venture Challenge (KSVC) aren’t waiting for the future to become entrepreneurs.

Through the program, they’ve started on the road to becoming the next Dr. Dane Miller, founder of Biomet, or Jake Furbee, founder of Core Mechanical, to learn what it takes to be entrepreneurs and start their own businesses.

Thursday night at the Manahan Orthopaedic Capital Center was the KSVC Showcase, the culmination of the program where the students from the six area high schools displayed and discussed their businesses to family, friends and the public. Afterward, certificates and monetary awards were presented to the students to assist them in continuing on with their ventures.

Kosciusko Community Coordinator Amy Roe explained KSVC started through the Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program (HELP). “That was the first grant process that I was in charge of, and actually came out of the Strengthening Local Economies with the premise that we needed to strengthen entrepreneurship in the county, starting at the high school level. So what would it look like to normalize that so that we could have the next Dane Miller,” she said.

After doing their research, they found the Believe In A Dream organization.

“Steve Franks was the original co-founder (of KSVC) with myself, and the idea was birthed over cheese bread over at what used to be Light Rail in Winona Lake. So his organization they had, it was a different program, which he’s not there anymore, but we basically worked with him to come up with a Kosciusko program that would have basically training of learning how to start a business and then being able to show off that business, if you will.

So, the basics of business, with the hope that they would like the beginnings of a business that they could, maybe when they graduate from high school, work and make more intentional,” Roe said.

In the first year, KSVC started with 25 students from two schools, Warsaw and Tippecanoe Valley. In year two, it grew to 43 students from five schools: Warsaw, Tippecanoe Valley, Whitko, Wawasee and Lakeland Christian Academy. This year, Triton joined and the program started with 65 students.

“We’ve been really blessed because the partnership continues to expand with Believe In A Dream, even though Steve stepped away. Megan (McClellan) became the (executive) director and she’s been so great to help us with the fiscal sponsorship side of things. And that’s been super helpful because, since it started in the county government and the county government basically doesn’t do the programs, I needed to have that fiscal sponsor. So they are our stability, our financial (partners) … because without Megan, it would not be possible,” Roe said.

She also gave thanks to all the teachers/coaches who help the students. At each school, the teacher/coach decides which students participate in KSVC. The students then start the program by showing up on the first day and going through an eight-week bootcamp.

“Every month that they come, we have different mentors that come from the community that are experts in the area for the specific classes, having that bootcamp for that day,” Roe said. “Those adult mentors help to lead the facilitation.”

This year, the co-facilitators were Aaron Engbrecht from Tippecanoe Valley and Scott Greene of Warsaw.

“They facilitate this beautiful class, this bootcamp and the participation with each of the students. They do breakout sessions, they get to sit with these adults, they get to talk about their ideas. The adults help them to process through the ideas, decide what works and what doesn’t work. And these are real-life entrepreneurs and/or business leaders or community leaders who come in and give up their time and volunteer. It’s so great,” Roe stated.

After five weeks of learning and a field trip in week six, week seven of the bootcamp is where students present their business to a two-person panel of judges.

“The concept is as if you were pitching your business to a banker. Because tonight they will receive the financial investment for what level the bankers (judges) felt that they were qualified to receive at the time that they pitched,” Roe explained.

Bronze award recipients received $100, Silver award recipients received $300, and Gold earned $500. Co-owners split their earnings. A total of $14,300 was awarded Thursday night. Money for the program is donated, and there are in-kind sponsorships as well. The award money where the students get for their financial investment comes from Core Mechanical, the main award sponsor, Roe said.

Zack Kryder won Gold with his business, KH PowerWashing. “Me and my cousin started this business a couple of years ago, and it’s really been a big success for us since. We do powerwashing mostly houses, but we have done some pole barns, steel buildings, stuff like that,” he said.

He said they cover all of Kosciusko County, as well as some areas in Elkhart County like Nappanee.

Brody Duncan and Gage Hileman started Midwest Car Club.

“It’s a car community. We host car events, pretty much all around the Midwest right now, and kind of developing into a brand, making sure there’s merchandise and stuff like that,” Hileman explained.

He said they had 10 car events last year with over 500 people attending. To make money, Duncan said they’ve started selling their own Midwest Car Club merchandise like T-shirts.

Hileman said they plan to have two charity events this year to raise money for cancer.

Zyshawn Ira Rael Terry, 16, was offering food samples from his business, Ira’s Kitchen. “My main thing is that I’m offering flavors from all around the world. I’ve worked in many kitchens here in Warsaw,” he said. “It’s just bringing all those flavors to a one-stop shop kind of thing and just diversifying the food culture of Warsaw.”

He said he got his first job as a cook when he was 12. His favorite thing to cook is port belly.

Logan Miller had his business, Terra’s Embrace, and he won one of the two Best In Show awards, which includes a $500 prize. The other Best In Show award went to Cruz Nunez and his CB Artworks.

Miller, 18, said, “I personally make teas that are flavor-forward, but also create and have strong medicinal effects as well. So it really helps a lot with, depending on the one, one is an appetite suppressant, one is great for respiratory, the other settles the stomach. Another is just general immune-boosting.”

He stated he’s studied holistic medicine for 10 years. Each tea goes through one to six months of testing.
Lalia Streby and Emily Rush co-own Divine Designs and won Silver. “We make jewelry and apparel for Christians, or really for anyone who wants to express their faith outwardly and it’s a good conversation starter. It’s a great way to bring confidence through your faith,” Streby said.

Maryssa Lozano and her business, Puppers Pantry, offers all-natural dog treats. She makes them herself.

“I have a dog and I love to bake, so I thought it would be a great idea to make some dog treats. Pretty basic,” she said, noting she uses a variety of fruits and vegetables and tries to limit her ingredients. She doesn’t use any meat products at all.

Engbrecht teaches business classes at Tippecanoe Valley and runs their Work-Based Learning Program. Valley also has an Entrepreneurship Pathway and most of Valley’s students in the KSVC are in their second year of that pathway.

On the variety of student businesses, he said there was “everything from flower seeds that you can plant, the socks that fit that are very specific to track athletes, clothing, food, dog treats and it’s just really cool. I really encourage kids to find something that they’re going to enjoy because we work on it throughout the year. Find a product that you’re excited about. If you don’t get excited about working on this, then you’re probably doing the wrong thing.”

He said what impressed him about the students is, “I think about myself as a high school student and I don’t think I could have done this. I think I would have felt overwhelmed by it.”

The post Venture Challenge gets students going on the road to entrepreneurship appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

The post Venture Challenge gets students going on the road to entrepreneurship appeared first on Willie 103.5.

]]> This post was provided by News Now Warsaw
By David Slone
Times-Union

WINONA LAKE — High schoolers in the Kosciusko Student Venture Challenge (KSVC) aren’t waiting for the future to become entrepreneurs.

Through the program, they’ve started on the road to becoming the next Dr. Dane Miller, founder of Biomet, or Jake Furbee, founder of Core Mechanical, to learn what it takes to be entrepreneurs and start their own businesses.

Thursday night at the Manahan Orthopaedic Capital Center was the KSVC Showcase, the culmination of the program where the students from the six area high schools displayed and discussed their businesses to family, friends and the public. Afterward, certificates and monetary awards were presented to the students to assist them in continuing on with their ventures.

Kosciusko Community Coordinator Amy Roe explained KSVC started through the Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program (HELP). “That was the first grant process that I was in charge of, and actually came out of the Strengthening Local Economies with the premise that we needed to strengthen entrepreneurship in the county, starting at the high school level. So what would it look like to normalize that so that we could have the next Dane Miller,” she said.

After doing their research, they found the Believe In A Dream organization.

“Steve Franks was the original co-founder (of KSVC) with myself, and the idea was birthed over cheese bread over at what used to be Light Rail in Winona Lake. So his organization they had, it was a different program, which he’s not there anymore, but we basically worked with him to come up with a Kosciusko program that would have basically training of learning how to start a business and then being able to show off that business, if you will.

So, the basics of business, with the hope that they would like the beginnings of a business that they could, maybe when they graduate from high school, work and make more intentional,” Roe said.

In the first year, KSVC started with 25 students from two schools, Warsaw and Tippecanoe Valley. In year two, it grew to 43 students from five schools: Warsaw, Tippecanoe Valley, Whitko, Wawasee and Lakeland Christian Academy. This year, Triton joined and the program started with 65 students.

“We’ve been really blessed because the partnership continues to expand with Believe In A Dream, even though Steve stepped away. Megan (McClellan) became the (executive) director and she’s been so great to help us with the fiscal sponsorship side of things. And that’s been super helpful because, since it started in the county government and the county government basically doesn’t do the programs, I needed to have that fiscal sponsor. So they are our stability, our financial (partners) … because without Megan, it would not be possible,” Roe said.

She also gave thanks to all the teachers/coaches who help the students. At each school, the teacher/coach decides which students participate in KSVC. The students then start the program by showing up on the first day and going through an eight-week bootcamp.

“Every month that they come, we have different mentors that come from the community that are experts in the area for the specific classes, having that bootcamp for that day,” Roe said. “Those adult mentors help to lead the facilitation.”

This year, the co-facilitators were Aaron Engbrecht from Tippecanoe Valley and Scott Greene of Warsaw.

“They facilitate this beautiful class, this bootcamp and the participation with each of the students. They do breakout sessions, they get to sit with these adults, they get to talk about their ideas. The adults help them to process through the ideas, decide what works and what doesn’t work. And these are real-life entrepreneurs and/or business leaders or community leaders who come in and give up their time and volunteer. It’s so great,” Roe stated.

After five weeks of learning and a field trip in week six, week seven of the bootcamp is where students present their business to a two-person panel of judges.

“The concept is as if you were pitching your business to a banker. Because tonight they will receive the financial investment for what level the bankers (judges) felt that they were qualified to receive at the time that they pitched,” Roe explained.

Bronze award recipients received $100, Silver award recipients received $300, and Gold earned $500. Co-owners split their earnings. A total of $14,300 was awarded Thursday night. Money for the program is donated, and there are in-kind sponsorships as well. The award money where the students get for their financial investment comes from Core Mechanical, the main award sponsor, Roe said.

Zack Kryder won Gold with his business, KH PowerWashing. “Me and my cousin started this business a couple of years ago, and it’s really been a big success for us since. We do powerwashing mostly houses, but we have done some pole barns, steel buildings, stuff like that,” he said.

He said they cover all of Kosciusko County, as well as some areas in Elkhart County like Nappanee.

Brody Duncan and Gage Hileman started Midwest Car Club.

“It’s a car community. We host car events, pretty much all around the Midwest right now, and kind of developing into a brand, making sure there’s merchandise and stuff like that,” Hileman explained.

He said they had 10 car events last year with over 500 people attending. To make money, Duncan said they’ve started selling their own Midwest Car Club merchandise like T-shirts.

Hileman said they plan to have two charity events this year to raise money for cancer.

Zyshawn Ira Rael Terry, 16, was offering food samples from his business, Ira’s Kitchen. “My main thing is that I’m offering flavors from all around the world. I’ve worked in many kitchens here in Warsaw,” he said. “It’s just bringing all those flavors to a one-stop shop kind of thing and just diversifying the food culture of Warsaw.”

He said he got his first job as a cook when he was 12. His favorite thing to cook is port belly.

Logan Miller had his business, Terra’s Embrace, and he won one of the two Best In Show awards, which includes a $500 prize. The other Best In Show award went to Cruz Nunez and his CB Artworks.

Miller, 18, said, “I personally make teas that are flavor-forward, but also create and have strong medicinal effects as well. So it really helps a lot with, depending on the one, one is an appetite suppressant, one is great for respiratory, the other settles the stomach. Another is just general immune-boosting.”

He stated he’s studied holistic medicine for 10 years. Each tea goes through one to six months of testing.
Lalia Streby and Emily Rush co-own Divine Designs and won Silver. “We make jewelry and apparel for Christians, or really for anyone who wants to express their faith outwardly and it’s a good conversation starter. It’s a great way to bring confidence through your faith,” Streby said.

Maryssa Lozano and her business, Puppers Pantry, offers all-natural dog treats. She makes them herself.

“I have a dog and I love to bake, so I thought it would be a great idea to make some dog treats. Pretty basic,” she said, noting she uses a variety of fruits and vegetables and tries to limit her ingredients. She doesn’t use any meat products at all.

Engbrecht teaches business classes at Tippecanoe Valley and runs their Work-Based Learning Program. Valley also has an Entrepreneurship Pathway and most of Valley’s students in the KSVC are in their second year of that pathway.

On the variety of student businesses, he said there was “everything from flower seeds that you can plant, the socks that fit that are very specific to track athletes, clothing, food, dog treats and it’s just really cool. I really encourage kids to find something that they’re going to enjoy because we work on it throughout the year. Find a product that you’re excited about. If you don’t get excited about working on this, then you’re probably doing the wrong thing.”

He said what impressed him about the students is, “I think about myself as a high school student and I don’t think I could have done this. I think I would have felt overwhelmed by it.”

The post Venture Challenge gets students going on the road to entrepreneurship appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

The post Venture Challenge gets students going on the road to entrepreneurship appeared first on Willie 103.5.

]]> Owens Meat Market plans to open second store on south side of Warsaw https://www.willie1035.com/owens-meat-market-plans-to-open-second-store-on-south-side-of-warsaw/ Thu, 16 Apr 2026 15:12:37 +0000 https://www.willie1035.com/owens-meat-market-plans-to-open-second-store-on-south-side-of-warsaw/ By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — Warsaw area shoppers have been clamoring for years to see a grocery store open up on the south side of the city, and it’s now about to happen, but on a smaller scale. 

Owens Fresh Meat Market, which opened in Leesburg two years ago, is adding a second store on the south side of Warsaw just north of Warsaw Community High School.

The store will be on Fisher Avenue near Kincaid Street in a building that used to be home to Kendall Electric. 

Co-owner Christy Owens said they’ve been looking for a spot in Warsaw and had considered using part of the Old Marsh property before finding a spot further to the south.

She said the future operations won’t have a butcher on staff, but will be similar to the store in Leesburg.

“I know we’ll have a fresh meat counter in there, probably a deli, a grocery section … like everybody wants,” Owens said.

“Pretty close to what we have here up in Leesburg, it’ll just be on a smaller scale,” she said.

She said they could open for business “hopefully” in June.

The closing of the Marsh grocery store (nine years ago) and the Owen’s Grocery store (no relation to the Leesburg store owners) in 2919 left a clear void for residents on the west and south sides of the city.

City leaders worked for years to attract a grocery store to the Marsh property at the corner of Winona Avenue and South Buffalo Street, for years with no luck because of the property’s deteriorating condition.

At the same time, the company that owned the old Owen’s property (Krogers) prevented other grocery stores from acquiring the land, which will soon be home to a new apartment complex.

Filling that void, Owens said, is part of the reason for expanding.

Kristy Owens said they were interested in using part of the Marsh property, which had been owned by the city of Warsaw before it was sold to a company that is redeveloping the building into a large antique mall, which is expected to open posskbly by the end of the year.

Ultimately, they learned of the Fisher Avenue opportunity, she said.

News of the expansion plans was announced earlier this week in a video posted by the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce, which you can see here. The video attracted hundreds of positive comments and reactions.

 

The post Owens Meat Market plans to open second store on south side of Warsaw appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

The post Owens Meat Market plans to open second store on south side of Warsaw appeared first on Willie 103.5.

]]> This post was provided by News Now Warsaw
By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — Warsaw area shoppers have been clamoring for years to see a grocery store open up on the south side of the city, and it’s now about to happen, but on a smaller scale. 

Owens Fresh Meat Market, which opened in Leesburg two years ago, is adding a second store on the south side of Warsaw just north of Warsaw Community High School.

The store will be on Fisher Avenue near Kincaid Street in a building that used to be home to Kendall Electric. 

Co-owner Christy Owens said they’ve been looking for a spot in Warsaw and had considered using part of the Old Marsh property before finding a spot further to the south.

She said the future operations won’t have a butcher on staff, but will be similar to the store in Leesburg.

“I know we’ll have a fresh meat counter in there, probably a deli, a grocery section … like everybody wants,” Owens said.

“Pretty close to what we have here up in Leesburg, it’ll just be on a smaller scale,” she said.

She said they could open for business “hopefully” in June.

The closing of the Marsh grocery store (nine years ago) and the Owen’s Grocery store (no relation to the Leesburg store owners) in 2919 left a clear void for residents on the west and south sides of the city.

City leaders worked for years to attract a grocery store to the Marsh property at the corner of Winona Avenue and South Buffalo Street, for years with no luck because of the property’s deteriorating condition.

At the same time, the company that owned the old Owen’s property (Krogers) prevented other grocery stores from acquiring the land, which will soon be home to a new apartment complex.

Filling that void, Owens said, is part of the reason for expanding.

Kristy Owens said they were interested in using part of the Marsh property, which had been owned by the city of Warsaw before it was sold to a company that is redeveloping the building into a large antique mall, which is expected to open posskbly by the end of the year.

Ultimately, they learned of the Fisher Avenue opportunity, she said.

News of the expansion plans was announced earlier this week in a video posted by the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce, which you can see here. The video attracted hundreds of positive comments and reactions.

 

The post Owens Meat Market plans to open second store on south side of Warsaw appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

The post Owens Meat Market plans to open second store on south side of Warsaw appeared first on Willie 103.5.

]]> Columnist Roger Grossman recalls ‘A life-changing day’ https://www.willie1035.com/columnist-roger-grossman-recalls-a-life-changing-day/ Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:45:26 +0000 https://www.willie1035.com/columnist-roger-grossman-recalls-a-life-changing-day/
Roger Grossman
News Now Warsaw

Sunday was a day I won’t ever forget.

Being in a room full of people is normal for me. Sometimes that’s in a gym. It happens every Sunday at church.

But this … this was very different.

This gathering was, in part, to honor me!

Imagine a huge room inside the clubhouse of a golf course. One whole wall made of windows that overlooks the first tee and the ninth green.

The course is immaculate, and it’s busy on this summer-like Sunday afternoon.

In this room are people of all ages. Some of those in attendance are members of the Indiana Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association.

Some have already been inducted into their hall of fame.

Some were there to be inducted, and some are family members and friends of those to be honored.

Ten people were honored in total. Four of them received the ISSA’s annual awards. Those awards are named after famous members of the Indiana sports media.

Among the winners of those awards was Rob Blackman, the play-by-play voice of Purdue basketball and the pregame and postgame host of Purdue football on the radio.

I admit to being completely intimidated by the people in attendance.

Let me perfectly clear — there was absolutely no reason for me to feel that way. From the people who checked my wife and me in to the people sitting around us, we couldn’t have been treated any better than we were.

But one of my greatest flaws — or at least one of my most self-annoying qualities — is that I default to being intimidated by people.

The meal was delicious, and the staff at Valle Vista Golf Club and Conference Center couldn’t have been nicer.

After the meal, it was time for the awards, starting with the annual awards.

Then it was time for the ceremony.

They were going in alphabetical order, so I knew I was second. Knowing that was important because I might have been a little nervous in the moment. If you figure out when your turn is going to be, it takes some of the edge off.

Right before me was my good friend and colleague, Anthony Anderson.

One of the best parts of this experience was sharing it with Anthony. He and I have known each other for a long time, and we have leaned on each other for scouting reports and nuggets about upcoming games we were covering.

Then the person introducing those being honored started to read my biography.

I walked up on the stage and got my picture taken with my trophy and ISSA President Greg Rakestraw, whose name and voice you might recognize from hosting the Colts postgame show and the IHSAA pairings shows that we air on News Now Warsaw.

Then I delivered my speech.

My remarks are all over the internet and social media, so if you’d like to hear what I had to say, please take a minute to find the video and listen.

I would, however, like to share the main theme of my six minutes on stage—gratitude.

I am thankful for my radio station family, who came through big time in honoring me over the last three weeks. They threw me a wonderful open house at the station two weeks ago and were well represented at the ceremony on Sunday.

I am thankful that my wife could be there. She’s been my biggest supporter despite knowing that I was never going to make much money, my side of the bed would always be vacant in the morning, and I would be gone on cold winter weekends.

And, above all, I thank the Lord for making it all happen.

I pointed out to those who were listening that too many things had to fall perfectly into place for my broadcasting career to turn out the way it has.

It was “too many coincidences to be a coincidence.”

Monday morning, the alarm went off at 4 a.m., like always.

But I must be completely honest with you, I felt different.

Even as I walked into that room Sunday afternoon, there was a part of me that felt like it wasn’t real.

It was never my goal to be a “hall of fame broadcaster,” but I am that now.

Does it make me a different person? Absolutely not. I am still me, and I don’t ever want that to be different.

But someday someone is going to ask, “Who was Roger Grossman?” Hopefully, the person answering will start their response with something like “he was a really nice, Christian guy,” and shortly after that, the conversation will shift to what happened on Sunday in that big room in Greenwood, when the son of a tractor mechanic and a stay-at-home mom experienced the life-changing moment of becoming a hall of fame broadcaster.

The post Columnist Roger Grossman recalls ‘A life-changing day’ appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

The post Columnist Roger Grossman recalls ‘A life-changing day’ appeared first on Willie 103.5.

]]> This post was provided by News Now Warsaw
Roger Grossman
News Now Warsaw

Sunday was a day I won’t ever forget.

Being in a room full of people is normal for me. Sometimes that’s in a gym. It happens every Sunday at church.

But this … this was very different.

This gathering was, in part, to honor me!

Imagine a huge room inside the clubhouse of a golf course. One whole wall made of windows that overlooks the first tee and the ninth green.

The course is immaculate, and it’s busy on this summer-like Sunday afternoon.

In this room are people of all ages. Some of those in attendance are members of the Indiana Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association.

Some have already been inducted into their hall of fame.

Some were there to be inducted, and some are family members and friends of those to be honored.

Ten people were honored in total. Four of them received the ISSA’s annual awards. Those awards are named after famous members of the Indiana sports media.

Among the winners of those awards was Rob Blackman, the play-by-play voice of Purdue basketball and the pregame and postgame host of Purdue football on the radio.

I admit to being completely intimidated by the people in attendance.

Let me perfectly clear — there was absolutely no reason for me to feel that way. From the people who checked my wife and me in to the people sitting around us, we couldn’t have been treated any better than we were.

But one of my greatest flaws — or at least one of my most self-annoying qualities — is that I default to being intimidated by people.

The meal was delicious, and the staff at Valle Vista Golf Club and Conference Center couldn’t have been nicer.

After the meal, it was time for the awards, starting with the annual awards.

Then it was time for the ceremony.

They were going in alphabetical order, so I knew I was second. Knowing that was important because I might have been a little nervous in the moment. If you figure out when your turn is going to be, it takes some of the edge off.

Right before me was my good friend and colleague, Anthony Anderson.

One of the best parts of this experience was sharing it with Anthony. He and I have known each other for a long time, and we have leaned on each other for scouting reports and nuggets about upcoming games we were covering.

Then the person introducing those being honored started to read my biography.

I walked up on the stage and got my picture taken with my trophy and ISSA President Greg Rakestraw, whose name and voice you might recognize from hosting the Colts postgame show and the IHSAA pairings shows that we air on News Now Warsaw.

Then I delivered my speech.

My remarks are all over the internet and social media, so if you’d like to hear what I had to say, please take a minute to find the video and listen.

I would, however, like to share the main theme of my six minutes on stage—gratitude.

I am thankful for my radio station family, who came through big time in honoring me over the last three weeks. They threw me a wonderful open house at the station two weeks ago and were well represented at the ceremony on Sunday.

I am thankful that my wife could be there. She’s been my biggest supporter despite knowing that I was never going to make much money, my side of the bed would always be vacant in the morning, and I would be gone on cold winter weekends.

And, above all, I thank the Lord for making it all happen.

I pointed out to those who were listening that too many things had to fall perfectly into place for my broadcasting career to turn out the way it has.

It was “too many coincidences to be a coincidence.”

Monday morning, the alarm went off at 4 a.m., like always.

But I must be completely honest with you, I felt different.

Even as I walked into that room Sunday afternoon, there was a part of me that felt like it wasn’t real.

It was never my goal to be a “hall of fame broadcaster,” but I am that now.

Does it make me a different person? Absolutely not. I am still me, and I don’t ever want that to be different.

But someday someone is going to ask, “Who was Roger Grossman?” Hopefully, the person answering will start their response with something like “he was a really nice, Christian guy,” and shortly after that, the conversation will shift to what happened on Sunday in that big room in Greenwood, when the son of a tractor mechanic and a stay-at-home mom experienced the life-changing moment of becoming a hall of fame broadcaster.

The post Columnist Roger Grossman recalls ‘A life-changing day’ appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

The post Columnist Roger Grossman recalls ‘A life-changing day’ appeared first on Willie 103.5.

]]> More rain in the forecast on Thursday, Saturday across Kosciusko County https://www.willie1035.com/more-rain-in-the-forecast-on-thursday-saturday-across-kosciusko-county/ Thu, 16 Apr 2026 10:44:03 +0000 https://www.willie1035.com/more-rain-in-the-forecast-on-thursday-saturday-across-kosciusko-county/ By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — More rain on Wednesday afternoon further saturated Kosciusko County, but conditions in parts of Fulton and Marshall counties worsened.

The National Weather Service received more reports of flooding in the northern parts of those two counties, and a flood warning was in effect until 8 a.m. Thursday, said Meteorologist Chris Roller.

A flood watch has been in effect across northern Indiana since Tuesday, but small pockets across the region remained under a flood warning Thursday morning. Graphic provided by the National Weather Service.

But that status could change again with more rain in the forecast.

Roller said some additional rain is likely on Thursday. While a short dry period is expected on Friday, more showers could arrive on Saturday

“I think having the dryer Friday is going to help, but the ground is soggy, and there’s only so much runoff that can occur,” Roller said.

Low-lying areas have seen flooding that began about ten days ago across parts of the county.

Water levels along part of Sunset Drive near Anchorage Road and west of Little Pike Lake in Warsaw remain high. 

“We’re starting to see the impacts occur as a result,” Roller said.

He said rain totals in Warsaw from Wednesday to Saturday could total two inches.

Thursday’s high is expected to reach 73, but a significant cooldown will arrive over the weekend.

The post More rain in the forecast on Thursday, Saturday across Kosciusko County appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

The post More rain in the forecast on Thursday, Saturday across Kosciusko County appeared first on Willie 103.5.

]]> This post was provided by News Now Warsaw
By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — More rain on Wednesday afternoon further saturated Kosciusko County, but conditions in parts of Fulton and Marshall counties worsened.

The National Weather Service received more reports of flooding in the northern parts of those two counties, and a flood warning was in effect until 8 a.m. Thursday, said Meteorologist Chris Roller.

A flood watch has been in effect across northern Indiana since Tuesday, but small pockets across the region remained under a flood warning Thursday morning. Graphic provided by the National Weather Service.

But that status could change again with more rain in the forecast.

Roller said some additional rain is likely on Thursday. While a short dry period is expected on Friday, more showers could arrive on Saturday

“I think having the dryer Friday is going to help, but the ground is soggy, and there’s only so much runoff that can occur,” Roller said.

Low-lying areas have seen flooding that began about ten days ago across parts of the county.

Water levels along part of Sunset Drive near Anchorage Road and west of Little Pike Lake in Warsaw remain high. 

“We’re starting to see the impacts occur as a result,” Roller said.

He said rain totals in Warsaw from Wednesday to Saturday could total two inches.

Thursday’s high is expected to reach 73, but a significant cooldown will arrive over the weekend.

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]]> Warsaw girls basketball coach Lenny Krebs resigns after nine seasons https://www.willie1035.com/warsaw-girls-basketball-coach-lenny-krebs-resigns-after-nine-seasons/ Wed, 15 Apr 2026 14:14:21 +0000 https://www.willie1035.com/warsaw-girls-basketball-coach-lenny-krebs-resigns-after-nine-seasons/ News Release

WARSAW — Lenny Krebs has informed the Warsaw Athletic Department that he is stepping down as head coach of the Lady Tiger basketball program.

Krebs finished his ninth season in Warsaw in February with a final record of 162-58.
He led the Lady Tigers to the 2025 4A state championship game after knocking off #1 and previously unbeaten Hamilton Southeastern in the Frankfort Semi-State championship game.

Krebs also led Warsaw to the last five Northern Lakes Conference championships and a current 36-game NLC win streak.

Krebs informed the graduating seniors and returning players on Wednesday morning.

“I am not leaving to coach anywhere else,” Krebs told the team. “I am not leaving to coach or teach anywhere else. I have poured out my life and my heart for you and this program for nine years, and I can’t do that anymore. You need someone to lead you who can devote the time required to give you what you need.”

During his time at Warsaw, the Lady Tigers never won fewer than 14 games (2023-24) and won 50 games in the last two seasons (26 in 2024-25 and 24 in 2025-26).

He finishes second in wins at WCHS with 162 (Will Wienhorst 316 from 1987-2004) and total games coached with 220 (Wienhorst 409).

He coached three Indiana All-Stars during his tenure, including Brooke Winchester last season and Brooke Zartman and Joslyn Bricker,  who will represent the Hoosier state this summer. The search for the seventh head coach in Lady Tiger history will begin immediately.

Assistant coach Josh Fitzgerald will be handling the day-to-day operations of the team until a new coach is put in place.

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]]> This post was provided by News Now Warsaw
News Release

WARSAW — Lenny Krebs has informed the Warsaw Athletic Department that he is stepping down as head coach of the Lady Tiger basketball program.

Krebs finished his ninth season in Warsaw in February with a final record of 162-58.
He led the Lady Tigers to the 2025 4A state championship game after knocking off #1 and previously unbeaten Hamilton Southeastern in the Frankfort Semi-State championship game.

Krebs also led Warsaw to the last five Northern Lakes Conference championships and a current 36-game NLC win streak.

Krebs informed the graduating seniors and returning players on Wednesday morning.

“I am not leaving to coach anywhere else,” Krebs told the team. “I am not leaving to coach or teach anywhere else. I have poured out my life and my heart for you and this program for nine years, and I can’t do that anymore. You need someone to lead you who can devote the time required to give you what you need.”

During his time at Warsaw, the Lady Tigers never won fewer than 14 games (2023-24) and won 50 games in the last two seasons (26 in 2024-25 and 24 in 2025-26).

He finishes second in wins at WCHS with 162 (Will Wienhorst 316 from 1987-2004) and total games coached with 220 (Wienhorst 409).

He coached three Indiana All-Stars during his tenure, including Brooke Winchester last season and Brooke Zartman and Joslyn Bricker,  who will represent the Hoosier state this summer. The search for the seventh head coach in Lady Tiger history will begin immediately.

Assistant coach Josh Fitzgerald will be handling the day-to-day operations of the team until a new coach is put in place.

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]]> Sickafoose, Sordelet named Whitko’s top academic students of 2026 https://www.willie1035.com/sickafoose-sordelet-named-whitkos-top-academic-students-of-2026/ Wed, 15 Apr 2026 13:45:33 +0000 https://www.willie1035.com/sickafoose-sordelet-named-whitkos-top-academic-students-of-2026/  

News Release
SOUTH WHITLEY — Lillie Sickafoose is the Whitko Junior Senior High School Class of 2026 valedictorian and Kira Sordelet is the salutatorian, school principal Kathy Longenbaugh announced. 

Lillie is the daughter of Cory and Maudie Sickafoose, South Whitley; Kira is the daughter of Matt and Amanda Sordelet, also of South Whitley.

Both students plan to attend Purdue University: Lillie to study agribusiness as a prelude to becoming a veterinarian; Kira to study biomedical engineering with a planned career as a dentist or orthodontist.

A member of the National Honor Society, student council and FFA, Lillie is a 4-H member and shows livestock.

“I’ve realized the importance of learning through experiences,” Lillie said. “We all face challenges. Learning how to respond to situations allows you to adapt, grow, and move confidently.”

Lillie said she’s had several influential teachers at Whitko, “They taught me the importance of having a good work ethic, how to problem solve, and the importance of management skills. Most importantly, they have encouraged me to always do my best.”

The valedictorian’s advice to incoming freshmen is “Don’t take anything in life for granted, always appreciate the little things.”

Kira is a PeaceKeepers member and runs track for the Wildcats. Outside of class she enjoys motocross, snowboarding and hunting.

Kira appreciates Whitko’s small community environment and the feeling of closeness to everyone.

“I’ve become more responsible, independent and confident,” she said. “I’ve also improved my leadership skills and experienced many new opportunities.”

The salutatorian’s advice to incoming freshmen is “try to be comfortable being out of your comfort zone. Being comfortable limits what you’re capable of accomplishing.”

Classmates from South Whitley and planning to attend Purdue University, this year’s top students also have another thing in common, naming long-time teacher John Strayer as their favorite instructor.

Strayer had a few things to say about them, too.

“Lillie consistently stands out not only for her intelligence, but also for her curiosity and determination to fully understand and engage with the material,” Strayer said. “She demonstrates strong critical thinking skills, communicates effectively, and collaborates well with others, making her a true role model among her peers. In addition, her natural sense of humor brings a positive energy to the classroom, often lifting the spirits of those around her while still maintaining focus and respect for the learning environment.

“What truly sets Lillie apart is her caring nature. She goes out of her way to support those around her—whether by helping a struggling classmate, offering words of encouragement, or volunteering her time without hesitation. Her kindness and empathy foster a positive environment, and she leads by example through both her actions and her character. Her ability to balance compassion with a lighthearted personality makes her admired by her peers.

“Beyond her academic achievements, Lillie has shown exceptional character. She treats others with respect, maintains a positive attitude, and faces challenges with confidence and resilience. Her involvement in school activities, combined with her genuine desire to help others, reflects her natural leadership ability.

“Earning the title of valedictorian is a testament to Lillie’s hard work, discipline, and perseverance. I am confident that she will continue to accomplish great things and make a meaningful impact in whatever path she chooses.”

Of this year’s salutatorian, Strayer said, “Kira has distinguished herself through academic excellence, an amazing work ethic, respectfulness, and a strong commitment to personal growth. In the classroom, Kira consistently demonstrates intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and clear communication. She approaches challenges with determination and takes pride in producing high-quality work. Her outgoing personality allows her to connect easily with peers, and she naturally creates a welcoming and inclusive environment where others feel comfortable participating and contributing.

“Kira’s leadership stands out in both subtle and significant ways. She leads by example—setting high standards for herself while encouraging those around her to do the same. Whether working in group settings or participating in school activities, she is dependable, organized, and thoughtful in her decision-making. She listens to others, values different perspectives, and helps guide her peers toward success without ever seeking recognition for herself.

“Equally impressive is Kira’s character. She is genuinely caring and consistently goes out of her way to help others. She also brings a wonderful sense of humor to everything she does. Her positive energy and lighthearted nature make the classroom an enjoyable place to learn, and she has a unique ability to lift the spirits of those around her.”

The Class of 2026 graduates Friday, May 29 and the ceremony starts at 6 p.m.

For more information about Whitko Junior Senior High School or Whitko Community Schools, visit whitko.org.

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]]> This post was provided by News Now Warsaw

 

News Release
SOUTH WHITLEY — Lillie Sickafoose is the Whitko Junior Senior High School Class of 2026 valedictorian and Kira Sordelet is the salutatorian, school principal Kathy Longenbaugh announced. 

Lillie is the daughter of Cory and Maudie Sickafoose, South Whitley; Kira is the daughter of Matt and Amanda Sordelet, also of South Whitley.

Both students plan to attend Purdue University: Lillie to study agribusiness as a prelude to becoming a veterinarian; Kira to study biomedical engineering with a planned career as a dentist or orthodontist.

A member of the National Honor Society, student council and FFA, Lillie is a 4-H member and shows livestock.

“I’ve realized the importance of learning through experiences,” Lillie said. “We all face challenges. Learning how to respond to situations allows you to adapt, grow, and move confidently.”

Lillie said she’s had several influential teachers at Whitko, “They taught me the importance of having a good work ethic, how to problem solve, and the importance of management skills. Most importantly, they have encouraged me to always do my best.”

The valedictorian’s advice to incoming freshmen is “Don’t take anything in life for granted, always appreciate the little things.”

Kira is a PeaceKeepers member and runs track for the Wildcats. Outside of class she enjoys motocross, snowboarding and hunting.

Kira appreciates Whitko’s small community environment and the feeling of closeness to everyone.

“I’ve become more responsible, independent and confident,” she said. “I’ve also improved my leadership skills and experienced many new opportunities.”

The salutatorian’s advice to incoming freshmen is “try to be comfortable being out of your comfort zone. Being comfortable limits what you’re capable of accomplishing.”

Classmates from South Whitley and planning to attend Purdue University, this year’s top students also have another thing in common, naming long-time teacher John Strayer as their favorite instructor.

Strayer had a few things to say about them, too.

“Lillie consistently stands out not only for her intelligence, but also for her curiosity and determination to fully understand and engage with the material,” Strayer said. “She demonstrates strong critical thinking skills, communicates effectively, and collaborates well with others, making her a true role model among her peers. In addition, her natural sense of humor brings a positive energy to the classroom, often lifting the spirits of those around her while still maintaining focus and respect for the learning environment.

“What truly sets Lillie apart is her caring nature. She goes out of her way to support those around her—whether by helping a struggling classmate, offering words of encouragement, or volunteering her time without hesitation. Her kindness and empathy foster a positive environment, and she leads by example through both her actions and her character. Her ability to balance compassion with a lighthearted personality makes her admired by her peers.

“Beyond her academic achievements, Lillie has shown exceptional character. She treats others with respect, maintains a positive attitude, and faces challenges with confidence and resilience. Her involvement in school activities, combined with her genuine desire to help others, reflects her natural leadership ability.

“Earning the title of valedictorian is a testament to Lillie’s hard work, discipline, and perseverance. I am confident that she will continue to accomplish great things and make a meaningful impact in whatever path she chooses.”

Of this year’s salutatorian, Strayer said, “Kira has distinguished herself through academic excellence, an amazing work ethic, respectfulness, and a strong commitment to personal growth. In the classroom, Kira consistently demonstrates intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and clear communication. She approaches challenges with determination and takes pride in producing high-quality work. Her outgoing personality allows her to connect easily with peers, and she naturally creates a welcoming and inclusive environment where others feel comfortable participating and contributing.

“Kira’s leadership stands out in both subtle and significant ways. She leads by example—setting high standards for herself while encouraging those around her to do the same. Whether working in group settings or participating in school activities, she is dependable, organized, and thoughtful in her decision-making. She listens to others, values different perspectives, and helps guide her peers toward success without ever seeking recognition for herself.

“Equally impressive is Kira’s character. She is genuinely caring and consistently goes out of her way to help others. She also brings a wonderful sense of humor to everything she does. Her positive energy and lighthearted nature make the classroom an enjoyable place to learn, and she has a unique ability to lift the spirits of those around her.”

The Class of 2026 graduates Friday, May 29 and the ceremony starts at 6 p.m.

For more information about Whitko Junior Senior High School or Whitko Community Schools, visit whitko.org.

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]]> Sponsors lining up behind upcoming Holocaust exhibit; ‘Butterfly Project’ announced https://www.willie1035.com/sponsors-lining-up-behind-upcoming-holocaust-exhibit-butterfly-project-announced/ Wed, 15 Apr 2026 12:01:44 +0000 https://www.willie1035.com/sponsors-lining-up-behind-upcoming-holocaust-exhibit-butterfly-project-announced/ By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — More details were released this week by the Warsaw Community Public Library about the upcoming five-week Holocaust exhibit that will feature, among other things, a speech from a Holocaust survivor at the Performing Arts Center in Warsaw. 

‘Americans and the Holocaust,’ which looks at how Americans came to learn about the Nazi Germany atrocities, is sponsored by the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum and the American Library Association.

Library Director Heather Barron said they’re also enjoying lots of other local support.

Some of those include Jewish Federations in Fort Wayne and South Bend, PBS Michiana, the Warsaw Friends of the Library, and on top of that, the Rotary Club of Warsaw and Lake City Bank are both hosting different speakers.

The exhibit is also being publicized by the Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts.

Barron said effective publicity is crucial.

“The more that we can help get the word out, bring in engaging, thoughtful speakers and presentations, the more impact this exhibit will have,” Barron said.

She said she expects the exhibit to attract people from outside Indiana.

“This is definitely the biggest event that we have done in the past few years that I know of. So for us, this is a whole new level of partnership and sponsoring,” she said. 

The exhibit begins June 20.

Butterfly Project

While there will be numerous exhibits and panel discussions, another big component is what’s being called the Butterfly Project, which involves Warsaw School teachers and the Warsaw Public Arts Commission.

The ongoing initiative was co-founded in 2006 in San Diego and uses art to teach children about the Holocaust and commemorate the 1.5 million children who died.

Barron describes it as a very thoughtful attempt “to beautifully honor the children who were killed in the Holocaust.”

Barron said the Fort Wayne Jewish Foundation proposed the idea, which is being funded by a group known as The Butterfly Foundation.

“We’ve been thrilled because Warsaw Community Schools, the art teachers, decided to come on board with this, and then the Public Arts Commission, they’re going to help us as well with finding a good place for the installation,” Barron said.

Students participating in the project will draw inspiration by attending a June 23rd speech at the PAC by Holocaust survivor Irene Miller.

The concept often involves assembling original artwork by students in the shape of butterflies that are then assembled as part of a mosaic.

“This fall, the art teachers are taking it upon themselves to teach about the Holocaust in their classrooms and then let their students paint these butterflies,” Barron explained. “And then, in the winter, it is the high school art students who will take this project and carry it to the finish line by actually creating the art installation.

More details on the exhibit and Butterfly Project will be released soon by the library.

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]]> This post was provided by News Now Warsaw
By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

WARSAW — More details were released this week by the Warsaw Community Public Library about the upcoming five-week Holocaust exhibit that will feature, among other things, a speech from a Holocaust survivor at the Performing Arts Center in Warsaw. 

‘Americans and the Holocaust,’ which looks at how Americans came to learn about the Nazi Germany atrocities, is sponsored by the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum and the American Library Association.

Library Director Heather Barron said they’re also enjoying lots of other local support.

Some of those include Jewish Federations in Fort Wayne and South Bend, PBS Michiana, the Warsaw Friends of the Library, and on top of that, the Rotary Club of Warsaw and Lake City Bank are both hosting different speakers.

The exhibit is also being publicized by the Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts.

Barron said effective publicity is crucial.

“The more that we can help get the word out, bring in engaging, thoughtful speakers and presentations, the more impact this exhibit will have,” Barron said.

She said she expects the exhibit to attract people from outside Indiana.

“This is definitely the biggest event that we have done in the past few years that I know of. So for us, this is a whole new level of partnership and sponsoring,” she said. 

The exhibit begins June 20.

Butterfly Project

While there will be numerous exhibits and panel discussions, another big component is what’s being called the Butterfly Project, which involves Warsaw School teachers and the Warsaw Public Arts Commission.

The ongoing initiative was co-founded in 2006 in San Diego and uses art to teach children about the Holocaust and commemorate the 1.5 million children who died.

Barron describes it as a very thoughtful attempt “to beautifully honor the children who were killed in the Holocaust.”

Barron said the Fort Wayne Jewish Foundation proposed the idea, which is being funded by a group known as The Butterfly Foundation.

“We’ve been thrilled because Warsaw Community Schools, the art teachers, decided to come on board with this, and then the Public Arts Commission, they’re going to help us as well with finding a good place for the installation,” Barron said.

Students participating in the project will draw inspiration by attending a June 23rd speech at the PAC by Holocaust survivor Irene Miller.

The concept often involves assembling original artwork by students in the shape of butterflies that are then assembled as part of a mosaic.

“This fall, the art teachers are taking it upon themselves to teach about the Holocaust in their classrooms and then let their students paint these butterflies,” Barron explained. “And then, in the winter, it is the high school art students who will take this project and carry it to the finish line by actually creating the art installation.

More details on the exhibit and Butterfly Project will be released soon by the library.

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]]> $1.7 million distributed to 13 groups by K21 Health Foundation https://www.willie1035.com/1-7-million-distributed-to-13-groups-by-k21-health-foundation/ Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:01:54 +0000 https://www.willie1035.com/1-7-million-distributed-to-13-groups-by-k21-health-foundation/ Staff Report

WINONA LAKE — The K21 Health Foundation has awarded $1,708,227 in grants to several nonprofit organizations dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of Kosciusko County residents.

This funding cycle had a significant number of requests focused on project enhancements, as well as facility additions and renovations, according to a provided news release.

Rich Haddad, president and CEO of K21, highlighted the diversity of recipients and grant impact, stating, “These grants demonstrate our commitment to creating wellness for generations, now and into the future, with both immediate program support as well as new facilities that will serve our residents for years to come.”

K21 Health Foundation awards grants in four key Health Pillars: Community Culture & Wellbeing, Health Access & Opportunity, Direct Services & Prevention, and Youth Development & Activity.

2025 Q1 grant recipients are:

• Baker Youth Club – Physical Activities Program
• Bowen Center – Enchanted Hills Park Equipment
• City of Warsaw – Parks Department – Community Skate Park
• Fellowship Missions – Facility Expansion and Renovations
• Fellowship Missions – Life Skills and Wellness Programming
• Grace College & Seminary – Catalyst Corridor Initiative – Community Fieldhouse
• Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County – Home-Repair Program
• Heartline Pregnancy Center – Health and Wellness Programs
• Kosciusko Health Services Pavilion – Facility Renovations
• Mentone Youth League – Facility Improvements
• Servants at Work – Wheelchair Ramps for Homes Program
• Warsaw Girls Rugby Foundation – Equipment
• Youth & the Outdoors United – Equipment

For more information and to learn more about K21 Health Foundation’s grantmaking, visit k21healthfoundation.org or contact Angie Summers, operations manager, at angie@k21healthfoundation.org or 574 269-5188.

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]]> This post was provided by News Now Warsaw
Staff Report

WINONA LAKE — The K21 Health Foundation has awarded $1,708,227 in grants to several nonprofit organizations dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of Kosciusko County residents.

This funding cycle had a significant number of requests focused on project enhancements, as well as facility additions and renovations, according to a provided news release.

Rich Haddad, president and CEO of K21, highlighted the diversity of recipients and grant impact, stating, “These grants demonstrate our commitment to creating wellness for generations, now and into the future, with both immediate program support as well as new facilities that will serve our residents for years to come.”

K21 Health Foundation awards grants in four key Health Pillars: Community Culture & Wellbeing, Health Access & Opportunity, Direct Services & Prevention, and Youth Development & Activity.

2025 Q1 grant recipients are:

• Baker Youth Club – Physical Activities Program
• Bowen Center – Enchanted Hills Park Equipment
• City of Warsaw – Parks Department – Community Skate Park
• Fellowship Missions – Facility Expansion and Renovations
• Fellowship Missions – Life Skills and Wellness Programming
• Grace College & Seminary – Catalyst Corridor Initiative – Community Fieldhouse
• Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County – Home-Repair Program
• Heartline Pregnancy Center – Health and Wellness Programs
• Kosciusko Health Services Pavilion – Facility Renovations
• Mentone Youth League – Facility Improvements
• Servants at Work – Wheelchair Ramps for Homes Program
• Warsaw Girls Rugby Foundation – Equipment
• Youth & the Outdoors United – Equipment

For more information and to learn more about K21 Health Foundation’s grantmaking, visit k21healthfoundation.org or contact Angie Summers, operations manager, at angie@k21healthfoundation.org or 574 269-5188.

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]]> Rain expected through Saturday; Storms and hail possible tonight https://www.willie1035.com/rain-expected-through-saturday-storms-and-hail-possible-tonight/ Tue, 14 Apr 2026 21:42:23 +0000 https://www.willie1035.com/rain-expected-through-saturday-storms-and-hail-possible-tonight/ By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

NORTH WEBSTER — The National Weather Service in North Webster is predicting more rain is likely through Saturday across much of northern Indiana that could result in fresh flooding.

Much of north central Indiana is under a flood watch beginning Tuesday night, with storms, heavy rain, and hail possible overnight, the National Weather Service said this afternoon.

A flood watch is in effect from 8 p.m. Tuesday until Wednesday night, the weather service said.

Recent rains caused flooding in low-level areas ten days ago and the area has not fully recovered.

Although water levels continue to fall in many areas, soils are saturated with areas of standing water still existing, the weather service said.

Chances for heavy rain increase tonight into Wednesday to bring the threat or renewed flooding to the watch area, the weather service said.

High temps for the next few days will remain the low 70s.

 

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]]> This post was provided by News Now Warsaw
By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw

NORTH WEBSTER — The National Weather Service in North Webster is predicting more rain is likely through Saturday across much of northern Indiana that could result in fresh flooding.

Much of north central Indiana is under a flood watch beginning Tuesday night, with storms, heavy rain, and hail possible overnight, the National Weather Service said this afternoon.

A flood watch is in effect from 8 p.m. Tuesday until Wednesday night, the weather service said.

Recent rains caused flooding in low-level areas ten days ago and the area has not fully recovered.

Although water levels continue to fall in many areas, soils are saturated with areas of standing water still existing, the weather service said.

Chances for heavy rain increase tonight into Wednesday to bring the threat or renewed flooding to the watch area, the weather service said.

High temps for the next few days will remain the low 70s.

 

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]]> Governor to pump $200M into child care vouchers, take 14K kids off waitlist https://www.willie1035.com/governor-to-pump-200m-into-child-care-vouchers-take-14k-kids-off-waitlist/ Tue, 14 Apr 2026 13:30:30 +0000 https://www.willie1035.com/governor-to-pump-200m-into-child-care-vouchers-take-14k-kids-off-waitlist/ By Leslie Bonilla Muniz
Indiana Capital Chronicle

About 14,000 additional low-income children could soon nab vouchers for free and reduced-cost child care under a $200 million proposal announced Tuesday by Gov. Mike Braun’s administration.

The administration will ask the State Budget Committee to let it divert $200 million from the General Fund to another account — created to cover underfunding in other agencies — and use the money to reopen admissions for a key child care program.

The Child Care and Development Fund is a state-administered federal program that serves about 43,000 children in Indiana. Families must meet income and work requirements to qualify for the assistance.

“Every voucher represents a working parent that wants to take a step forward for both their lives and then also for the next generation of Hoosier lives here,” said Adam Alson, the director of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning, which administers CCDF in Indiana.

“This is not just a social service program,” Alson added. “This is an economic engine that supports Indiana’s workforce and the state’s long-term economic future.”

The program has been closed to new children for more than a year, since enrollment peaked at 69,000 in December 2024. Former Gov. Eric Holcomb’s administration paused sign-ups and opened a waitlist.

Braun’s administration previously said the program would not expand until 2027, citing funding constraints after a dismal revenue forecast. But the latest forecast is significantly rosier.

Shortly after, lawmakers approved Senate Enrolled Act 4, allowing the state to spend money from the $300 million Financial Responsibility and Opportunity Growth fund on CCDF — or to direct more money to the fund specifically for CCDF.

The $200 million move would be subject to State Budget Committee approval. The lawmaker-dominated body next meets Thursday, for the first time since the end of the legislative session.

According to the March revenue report, Indiana is now $653 million ahead of the budget plan.

“We as an administration understand the importance of the CCDF voucher program, and we want to bring this to the State Budget Committee as quickly as possible … in order for child care businesses, families and children … (to) have more clarity around what the future holds,” Alson told the Capital Chronicle.

His office is part of the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration. As of February, almost 35,400 children were waiting for a CCDF voucher, according to FSSA’s child care subsidy dashboard.

The $200 million is projected to bring enrollment back up to 57,000, bringing a lucky 14,000 off the waitlist as soon as May.

Alson said there will be seats set aside for foster and kinship families, followed by slots for special needs and homeless children, as well as for the children of child care workers.

Indiana Public Media has reported that the voucher pause is forcing foster parents to pass on children they otherwise would’ve taken in.

“We don’t want the hindrance on that, for those individuals and those families that are looking to do that, to be the cost of child care,” Alson said.

The number of seats set aside per category hasn’t yet been determined, according to Alson. If the augmentation is approved at the Thursday meeting, implementation would begin late May.

That timeline is intended to give child care providers time to reopen classrooms and rehire staff. Many providers have constricted their operations or even closed amid the voucher enrollment crunch and deep cuts in voucher reimbursement rates from the state.

Regulated provider capacity has grown from about 170,900 in December 2024 to 175,600 in December 2025, according to FSSA quarterly financial reporting. But the state has lost 64 locations over that year.

Asked how to offer child care providers greater stability, Alson acknowledged the importance of “consistent funding,” as well as reduced regulatory burdens.

The $200 million influx will be paired with a statewide variance waiving state regulations on the mixing of different age groups at the beginning and end of the day, which Alson said increases staffing costs.

About 21,400 children are expected to remain on the waitlist, however.

“This $200 million is the largest one-time investment, one-year investment, in child care in the state’s history,” Alson said. “And it’s a significant step forward in … our acknowledgement of the importance of the child care space to the state of Indiana.”

“I think after we execute this, we’ll have a much better handle on what that demand for this program is as well — and we’ll be in a … more advantageous position going into the next budget cycle to address things like this,” he continued.

* * *

The Indiana Capital Chronicle is an independent, nonprofit news organization dedicated to giving Hoosiers a comprehensive look inside state government, policy and elections. The site combines daily coverage with in-depth scrutiny, political awareness and insightful commentary.

You can read the original version of the story here.

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By Leslie Bonilla Muniz
Indiana Capital Chronicle

About 14,000 additional low-income children could soon nab vouchers for free and reduced-cost child care under a $200 million proposal announced Tuesday by Gov. Mike Braun’s administration.

The administration will ask the State Budget Committee to let it divert $200 million from the General Fund to another account — created to cover underfunding in other agencies — and use the money to reopen admissions for a key child care program.

The Child Care and Development Fund is a state-administered federal program that serves about 43,000 children in Indiana. Families must meet income and work requirements to qualify for the assistance.

“Every voucher represents a working parent that wants to take a step forward for both their lives and then also for the next generation of Hoosier lives here,” said Adam Alson, the director of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning, which administers CCDF in Indiana.

“This is not just a social service program,” Alson added. “This is an economic engine that supports Indiana’s workforce and the state’s long-term economic future.”

The program has been closed to new children for more than a year, since enrollment peaked at 69,000 in December 2024. Former Gov. Eric Holcomb’s administration paused sign-ups and opened a waitlist.

Braun’s administration previously said the program would not expand until 2027, citing funding constraints after a dismal revenue forecast. But the latest forecast is significantly rosier.

Shortly after, lawmakers approved Senate Enrolled Act 4, allowing the state to spend money from the $300 million Financial Responsibility and Opportunity Growth fund on CCDF — or to direct more money to the fund specifically for CCDF.

The $200 million move would be subject to State Budget Committee approval. The lawmaker-dominated body next meets Thursday, for the first time since the end of the legislative session.

According to the March revenue report, Indiana is now $653 million ahead of the budget plan.

“We as an administration understand the importance of the CCDF voucher program, and we want to bring this to the State Budget Committee as quickly as possible … in order for child care businesses, families and children … (to) have more clarity around what the future holds,” Alson told the Capital Chronicle.

His office is part of the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration. As of February, almost 35,400 children were waiting for a CCDF voucher, according to FSSA’s child care subsidy dashboard.

The $200 million is projected to bring enrollment back up to 57,000, bringing a lucky 14,000 off the waitlist as soon as May.

Alson said there will be seats set aside for foster and kinship families, followed by slots for special needs and homeless children, as well as for the children of child care workers.

Indiana Public Media has reported that the voucher pause is forcing foster parents to pass on children they otherwise would’ve taken in.

“We don’t want the hindrance on that, for those individuals and those families that are looking to do that, to be the cost of child care,” Alson said.

The number of seats set aside per category hasn’t yet been determined, according to Alson. If the augmentation is approved at the Thursday meeting, implementation would begin late May.

That timeline is intended to give child care providers time to reopen classrooms and rehire staff. Many providers have constricted their operations or even closed amid the voucher enrollment crunch and deep cuts in voucher reimbursement rates from the state.

Regulated provider capacity has grown from about 170,900 in December 2024 to 175,600 in December 2025, according to FSSA quarterly financial reporting. But the state has lost 64 locations over that year.

Asked how to offer child care providers greater stability, Alson acknowledged the importance of “consistent funding,” as well as reduced regulatory burdens.

The $200 million influx will be paired with a statewide variance waiving state regulations on the mixing of different age groups at the beginning and end of the day, which Alson said increases staffing costs.

About 21,400 children are expected to remain on the waitlist, however.

“This $200 million is the largest one-time investment, one-year investment, in child care in the state’s history,” Alson said. “And it’s a significant step forward in … our acknowledgement of the importance of the child care space to the state of Indiana.”

“I think after we execute this, we’ll have a much better handle on what that demand for this program is as well — and we’ll be in a … more advantageous position going into the next budget cycle to address things like this,” he continued.

* * *

The Indiana Capital Chronicle is an independent, nonprofit news organization dedicated to giving Hoosiers a comprehensive look inside state government, policy and elections. The site combines daily coverage with in-depth scrutiny, political awareness and insightful commentary.

You can read the original version of the story here.

The post Governor to pump $200M into child care vouchers, take 14K kids off waitlist appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

The post Governor to pump $200M into child care vouchers, take 14K kids off waitlist appeared first on Willie 103.5.

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