10 Years Ago Thanksgiving was a little more special this year for the family of Spec. James M. Smith who returned home Nov. 22. His mother, Dixie Houck, says “It’s just great – no words really.” James is a specialist with the 685th Transportation Company out of Hobart. On Jan. 20 he received his activation orders at Fort Snelling, Minn. His Company went to Fort Campbell, Ky. and then left for Camp Victory, Kuwait March 9. For seven weeks they were stationed at Camp Cedar, Iraq. Their mission was to transport food and equipment to other divisions. James’ younger brother, Brady Houck, said “I’m happy he served our country. I love him. I’m glad he’s back.” 25 Years Ago The Salvation Army opened a display in a vacant store next to Baskin Robbins on Center Street which showcases teddy bears dressed in Christmas costumes and prepared by the Womens Auxiliary. Captain Ken Locke says the bears will be given away at the Toy Center Dec. 22. The Kosciusko County American Red Cross has extended their Amish goods and bake sale. Brad Nostel, South Whitley, was hired by the town board as a new police officer for the town. He replaces Dennis Ruch who accepted a position with the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department. Dave McKeever was appointed to the position of assistant town marshal. 50 Years Ago Lincoln Elementary School notched its seventh win in a row Thursday evening to cop the city flagball championship with a 26-0 victory over Adams. The undefeated “eastenders” are coached by Gene Butts. Bruce Grossnickle scored from 24 yards out on a reverse. Stan Becker added a TD on a six-yard run. Doug Robinson made it a 14-0 first quarter lead by stopping the Adams quarterback in the end zone for a safety. Grossnickle made it 20-0 on a three-yard run in the second quarter. The final counter came in the fourth period on a pass from Pat Bennett to Robinson of three yards. Robinson, tackles Bill Hettinger and Bill Shafer, and team captain Kim Essenburg all turned in a stout defensive game for the winners. 75 Years Ago The 57th anniversary of the Warsaw Times as Warsaw’s first daily newspaper occurred this week. On Sept. 20, 1881 the Daily Times appeared as a morning daily publication, chronicling the death from assassination of President James Garfield which occurred the night before. Previously the establishment had printed a weekly edition only. Editor L. H. Williams and Ed C. Aborn are the only two surviving members of the staff of hand typesetters who as young men helped produce Warsaw’s first daily, then called the Daily Indianian. The Northern Indianian had been founded as a weekly publication previously in 1856 by the late General Reuben Williams.
