By Martha Steeling
Staff Writer

SYRACUSE — Syracuse Cemetery Association is undertaking a new project and needs public feedback and support. The cemetery is located in the northwestern part of town.

Syracuse Cemetery is not under the jurisdiction of Turkey Creek Township and, therefore, is not supported by tax funds. The association’s board of directors, members Phil Mock and Garry Ringler, went to the cemetery recently to document the problems.

The association knew there had been some vandalism and damage to several of the grave sites in the cemetery and wanted a report. Mock and Ringler came back with some findings. Several stones have fallen over or been knocked over. Many stones have moss and debris hiding the information on the stones. Several of the older blanket-type graves with cement over the entire plot are sinking and falling in.

The association wants to do something about this and to get the streets and plots marked. The SCA is seeking input and funding. There are grants that can be applied for but most have matching requirements of monies from the public and fundraising.

Those wishing to make donations for improvements can send checks to Syracuse Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 175, Syracuse, IN 46567. Mark improvements on the subject line of the check. Are there people who would be willing to help hold fundraisers and send out fundraising letters? Interested parties should contact SCA President Matt Kissane (574) 325-0106.

The association meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month. Members are Kissane, Ringler, Mock, Paul Stoelting, Leonard Kline, Richard Owens, Jan Spearman and Ben Plikerd. Penny Plikerd is the secretary-treasurer.