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January 31, 2009
Poll: The Super Bowl
Whitley County Exposed, Taste of Whitley County planned for March 28 at Indian Springs
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
For the past week, a group of volunteers has been working at a feverish pace to revamp and recreate an exciting, memorable event in Whitley County…and from the very name, you won’t forget it: Whitley County Exposed.
The event, slated for March 28 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. at Indian Springs Middle School, will feature the offerings of many local businesses, informative demonstrations, lively entertainment and more. Volunteers are hopeful that the fresh, redesigned event will be educational and energizing.
The wildly popular Taste of Whitley County will showcase the culinary delights of local eateries, coffee shops, caterers, bakeries and more. Proceeds from the event will support Leadership Whitley County with a portion going in support of the development of a Youth Leadership Program. The Taste of Whitley County will happen in tandem with the Whitley County Exposed event.
More information about this event will continue to be available here on Talk of the Town. If your business is interested in securing one of the limited numbers of booths at the event, call the Columbia City Chamber of Commerce at 244-8131.
If your restaurant or catering business would like to participate in the Taste of Whitley County, contact Kelley Sheiss at 799-4045 or Jennifer Zartman Romano at 610-1873 or via email at jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com .
Whitley County Exposed, Taste of Whitley County planned for March 28 at Indian Springs
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
For the past week, a group of volunteers has been working at a feverish pace to revamp and recreate an exciting, memorable event in Whitley County…and from the very name, you won’t forget it: Whitley County Exposed.
The event, slated for March 28 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. at Indian Springs Middle School, will feature the offerings of many local businesses, informative demonstrations, lively entertainment and more. Volunteers are hopeful that the fresh, redesigned event will be educational and energizing.
The wildly popular Taste of Whitley County will showcase the culinary delights of local eateries, coffee shops, caterers, bakeries and more. Proceeds from the event will support Leadership Whitley County with a portion going in support of the development of a Youth Leadership Program. The Taste of Whitley County will happen in tandem with the Whitley County Exposed event.
More information about this event will continue to be available here on Talk of the Town. If your business is interested in securing one of the limited numbers of booths at the event, call the Columbia City Chamber of Commerce at 244-8131.
If your restaurant or catering business would like to participate in the Taste of Whitley County, contact Kelley Sheiss at 799-4045 or Jennifer Zartman Romano at 610-1873 or via email at jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com .
Local florist turning Valentine's Day bouquets into fundraiser for The Lighthouse
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
A local florist will continue her goal of doing good as she prepares for one of the busiest days of the year – Valentine’s Day. 
Pat Henson, owner of Picture Perfect Floral and Catering, will be selling one dozen roses and a box of DeBrand’s chocolates for $45 – with a portion of the proceeds from each sale benefiting Interfaith Mission’s The Lighthouse Homeless Shelter. The Lighthouse is Whitley County’s only homeless shelter and it is located on Business 30 on the west side of Columbia City.
Henson said the roses are available in a box or in a vase.
“Every year we do donate to a charity,” Henson said of her annual Valentine’s Day sales.
“Last year, we donated to the Whitley County 4-H Club. I like to do a different charity each year,” she said. Henson said she occasionally works with The Lighthouse during the year and felt like this was a good opportunity to further assist the shelter.
“We wanted to keep it as economical as we can and yet still give back to the community,” Henson said of her gift package. “It’s two fold.”
Henson suggests people place their orders as early as possible. Credit cards will be accepted and delivery is available. Call in orders at 244-4811 or visit the website by clicking here.
Local florist turning Valentine's Day bouquets into fundraiser for The Lighthouse
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
A local florist will continue her goal of doing good as she prepares for one of the busiest days of the year – Valentine’s Day.
Pat Henson, owner of Picture Perfect Floral and Catering, will be selling one dozen roses and a box of DeBrand’s chocolates for $45 – with a portion of the proceeds from each sale benefiting Interfaith Mission’s The Lighthouse Homeless Shelter. The Lighthouse is Whitley County’s only homeless shelter and it is located on Business 30 on the west side of Columbia City.
Henson said the roses are available in a box or in a vase.
“Every year we do donate to a charity,” Henson said of her annual Valentine’s Day sales.
“Last year, we donated to the Whitley County 4-H Club. I like to do a different charity each year,” she said. Henson said she occasionally works with The Lighthouse during the year and felt like this was a good opportunity to further assist the shelter.
“We wanted to keep it as economical as we can and yet still give back to the community,” Henson said of her gift package. “It’s two fold.”
Henson suggests people place their orders as early as possible. Credit cards will be accepted and delivery is available. Call in orders at 244-4811 or visit the website by clicking here.
January 30, 2009
Fun finds abound at Julie's New Sensation in downtown Columbia City
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Julie Weigold, above at right, with her aunt, Phyllis Hull, owns Julie's New Sensation, a consignment and second hand clothing store in downtown Columbia City. Below, the front window at Julie's New Sensation is ever changing with new merchandise. Beneath, Phyllis Hull sorts and prices a new lot of clothing for the store. At bottom, you can find a little bit of everything at Julie's New Sensation -- and the treasures found there are the reasons her customers come back time after time. A look around the store reveals a quick glimpse at what you might find.
By Nicholas Henney
Who doesn’t love the rush of finding a great deal at a garage sale?
That is a feeling Julie Weigold, owner of Julie’s New Sensation on Van Buren Street, tries to recreate in downtown Columbia City every day.
Julie’s New Sensation is a consignment store that as been located downtown for 12 years and is described by Weigold as a “year round inside garage sale.”
Taking your old clothes, knick-knacks or even old furniture to a consignment shop is like “having a garage sale with none of the work,” says Weigold.
Customers bring in their unwanted items and receive a number that corresponds with their merchandise. Weigold and her aunt then sort price and display the merchandise for 60 days.
If the items sell, the store splits half of the proceeds with the consignor. If the items don’t sell, they are donated to the Salvation Army and the local senior center.
“It’s a way to recycle and keep it in the community,” says Weigold.
Weigold says she enjoys her downtown location because of the hometown feel. Many people who work downtown shop at Julie’s New Sensation on their lunch break and her shop is within walking distance of many of the downtown apartments.
With the declining economy, Weigold says this is one of her busiest years because customers can find designer clothes at a drastic discount. In the span of 12 years, Weigold counts this as one of her busiest. People are trying to pinch their pennies any way they can and choosing not to splurge on brand new clothing is one way to do it.
Julie’s New Sensation is located on Van Buren Street across from the courthouse next to Northside Bar & Grill. The store is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Fun finds abound at Julie's New Sensation in downtown Columbia City
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Julie Weigold, above at right, with her aunt, Phyllis Hull, owns Julie's New Sensation, a consignment and second hand clothing store in downtown Columbia City. Below, the front window at Julie's New Sensation is ever changing with new merchandise. Beneath, Phyllis Hull sorts and prices a new lot of clothing for the store. At bottom, you can find a little bit of everything at Julie's New Sensation -- and the treasures found there are the reasons her customers come back time after time. A look around the store reveals a quick glimpse at what you might find.
By Nicholas Henney
Who doesn’t love the rush of finding a great deal at a garage sale?
That is a feeling Julie Weigold, owner of Julie’s New Sensation on Van Buren Street, tries to recreate in downtown Columbia City every day.
Julie’s New Sensation is a consignment store that as been located downtown for 12 years and is described by Weigold as a “year round inside garage sale.”
Taking your old clothes, knick-knacks or even old furniture to a consignment shop is like “having a garage sale with none of the work,” says Weigold.
Customers bring in their unwanted items and receive a number that corresponds with their merchandise. Weigold and her aunt then sort price and display the merchandise for 60 days.
If the items sell, the store splits half of the proceeds with the consignor. If the items don’t sell, they are donated to the Salvation Army and the local senior center.
“It’s a way to recycle and keep it in the community,” says Weigold.
Weigold says she enjoys her downtown location because of the hometown feel. Many people who work downtown shop at Julie’s New Sensation on their lunch break and her shop is within walking distance of many of the downtown apartments.
With the declining economy, Weigold says this is one of her busiest years because customers can find designer clothes at a drastic discount. In the span of 12 years, Weigold counts this as one of her busiest. People are trying to pinch their pennies any way they can and choosing not to splurge on brand new clothing is one way to do it.
Julie’s New Sensation is located on Van Buren Street across from the courthouse next to Northside Bar & Grill. The store is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Lake City Bank announces 21st consecutive year of record earnings
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Lakeland Financial Corporation, parent company of Lake City Bank, announced record earnings for the 21st consecutive year this week. Above, the Lake City Bank branch is located just off SR 9 near Kroger.
Article provided
Lakeland Financial Corporation (Nasdaq Global Select/LKFN), parent company of Lake City Bank, today reported net income of $19.7 million for 2008 versus $19.2 million for 2007.
“For the 21st consecutive year, Lake City Bank established a new record for net income. We are extremely proud of this performance in the face of the intense economic and industry challenges we faced during the year,” commented Michael L. Kubacki, chairman, president and chief executive officer.
Net income of $19.7 million for 2008 represented an increase of 3% versus $19.2 million for 2007. Diluted net income per share for the year was $1.58 versus $1.55 for 2007. The Company reported net income of $4.4 million for the fourth quarter of 2008, a decrease of 8% versus $4.8 million reported for the fourth quarter of 2007. Diluted net income per share for the quarter was $0.35 versus $0.40 for the comparable period of 2007. On a linked quarter basis, fourth quarter results compared to net income of $5.2 million, or $0.42 per diluted share, for the third quarter of 2008.“Our business is not immune to the challenging conditions we are experiencing nationally and locally. As a result, we were impacted by higher loan losses during the year. Further, there is no question that our traditional commercial and industrial commercial borrowing base is undergoing a very stressful period, as reflected in our loan loss provision for the quarter and full year. Yet, we were able to conclude the year with gratifying results,” said Kubacki.
The Company also announced that the Board of Directors approved a cash dividend for the fourth quarter of $0.155 per share, payable on February 5, 2009 to shareholders of record as of January 25, 2009. The quarterly dividend represents an 11% increase over the quarterly dividends paid in 2007, and maintains the level of dividend paid for the third quarter of 2008.
Average total loans for the fourth quarter of 2008 were $1.77 billion versus $1.46 billion for the fourth quarter of 2007 and $1.69 billion for the linked third quarter of 2008. The year-over-year increase for the fourth quarter represented an increase of 21%, or $305 million. On a linked quarter basis, average loans increased by $82 million versus the third quarter of 2008. Total gross loans as of December 31, 2008 were $1.83 billion compared to $1.52 billion as of December 31, 2007 and $1.72 billion as of September 30, 2008.
“We are particularly proud of the fact that we are using our balance sheet to demonstrate our commitment to Lake City Bank’s clients. In the fourth quarter, we grew our loan portfolio by $116 million, or 7%, over the third quarter totals. There has been quite a bit of commentary during the past several months about the banking industry’s lack of commitment to expanding lending activity in 2008. Clearly, that is not the case with Lake City Bank, as we continued to maintain our historical lending standards while at the same time growing our loan portfolio to provide capital to our clients. Further, our participation in the Capital Purchase Program will bolster an already strong capital structure and balance sheet and provide us with the ability to continue to expand our lending activities in our Indiana footprint,” stated Kubacki.
The Company’s net interest margin was 3.14% in 2008 versus 3.22% in 2007. The net interest margin was 2.98% in the fourth quarter versus 3.14% in the comparable period of 2007 and 3.35% in the third quarter of 2008. The higher net interest margin in the third quarter of 2008 resulted primarily from the recognition of $1.2 million in interest income from the payoff of a loan that had been on nonaccrual. Excluding the impact of this event, the net interest margin would have been 3.12% for the third quarter. The decline in the net interest margin during the fourth quarter resulted primarily from the impact of the Federal Reserve Bank’s Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) actions. During the quarter, the FOMC reduced the target federal funds rate from 2.00% to a range of 0% to 0.25% at the conclusion of the quarter. The target fed funds rate on January 1, 2008 was 4.25%, therefore the FOMC lowered the target rate by a range of 4.00% to 4.25% in seven separate actions during the year. This unprecedented activity contributed to the decline in the Company’s margin as the cost of deposits and borrowed funds did not decline as rapidly as loan revenue. The loan revenue decline resulted directly from variable rate loans, which are generally linked to the prime rate. The prime rate concluded the year at 3.25% versus 7.25% at December 31, 2007.
The previously noted loan growth led to an increase in average earning assets, which contributed to an increase in net interest income of 14%. Net interest income grew to $16.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2008 versus $14.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2007. The Company’s provision for loan losses increased by $1.3 million, or 120%, to $2.3 million for the fourth quarter of 2008 versus $1.1 million in the same period of 2007. In the third quarter of 2008, the provision was $3.7 million. The provision increases in 2008 were primarily driven by a higher level of charge offs, strong loan growth and the overall weaker economic conditions in the Company’s markets.
The Company's noninterest expense was $12.6 million for the fourth quarter of 2008 compared to $11.4 million for the same period in 2007, an increase of 10%. This increase was driven primarily by increased regulatory expenses, as well as increases in payroll and benefit expenses. Other expense increased by $611,000, or 24%, in the quarter driven primarily by higher regulatory expenses of $508,000 due to the Company’s resumption of regular FDIC insurance premiums. Salaries and employee benefits increased by $258,000, or 4%, when compared to the same period in 2007 as a result of a combination of increases in health insurance and performance-based incentive expense, staff additions in administrative and commercial lending positions, normal merit increases and new office staff costs. The Company's efficiency ratio for the fourth quarter of 2008 was 59%, consistent with the same period in 2007. For the full year, the efficiency ratio was 55% versus 57% in 2007.
Net charge-offs totaled $1.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2008, versus $327,000 during the fourth quarter of 2007 and $3.6 million during the third quarter of 2008. Lakeland Financial’s allowance for loan losses as of December 31, 2008 was $18.9 million, compared to $15.8 million as of December 31, 2007 and $18.1 million as of September 30, 2008.
Nonperforming assets totaled $22.4 million as of December 31, 2008 compared to $21.1 million as of September 30, 2008 and $9.9 million on December 31, 2007. The ratio of nonperforming assets to assets was 0.94% on both December 31, 2008 and September 30, 2008, compared to 0.50% at December 31, 2007. The allowance for loan losses represented 89% of nonperforming loans as of December 31, 2008 versus 90% at September 30, 2008 and 212% at December 30, 2007.
For the three months ended December 31, 2008, Lakeland Financial’s average equity to average assets ratio was 6.56% compared to 6.88% for the third quarter of 2008 and 7.47% for the fourth quarter of 2007. Average stockholders' equity for the quarter ended December 31, 2008 was $151.3 million versus $152.0 million for the third quarter of 2008 and $143.9 million for the fourth quarter of 2007. Average total deposits for the quarter ended December 31, 2008 were $1.84 billion versus $1.64 billion for the third quarter of 2008 and $1.52 billion for the fourth quarter of 2007.
Earnings for the year ended December 31, 2008 were positively impacted by the pre-tax benefit of $642,000, or $382,000 after tax, realized from the first quarter initial public offering of Visa, Inc. common shares. Excluding the effect of the Visa transaction, net income for the year would have been $19.3 million and diluted earnings per share would have been $1.55.
Lakeland Financial Corporation is a $2.4 billion bank holding company headquartered in Warsaw, Indiana. Lake City Bank serves Northern Indiana with 43 branches located in the following Indiana counties: Kosciusko, Elkhart, Allen, St. Joseph, DeKalb, Fulton, Huntington, LaGrange, Marshall, Noble, Pulaski and Whitley. The Company also has a Loan Production Office in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Lakeland Financial Corporation may be accessed on its home page at ww.lakecitybank.com.
The Company’s common stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under “LKFN”. Market makers in Lakeland Financial Corporation common shares include Automated Trading Desk Financial Services, LLC, B-Trade Services, LLC, Citadel Derivatives Group, LLC, Citigroup Global Markets Holdings, Inc., Domestic Securities, Inc., E*TRADE Capital Markets LLC, FTN Financial Securities Corp., FTN Midwest Securities Corp., Goldman Sachs & Company, Howe Barnes Hoefer & Arnett, Inc., Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc., Knight Equity Markets, L.P., Lehman Brothers Inc., Morgan Stanley & Co., Inc., Stifel Nicolaus & Company, Inc., Susquehanna Capital Group and UBS Securities LLC.
Lake City Bank announces 21st consecutive year of record earnings
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Lakeland Financial Corporation, parent company of Lake City Bank, announced record earnings for the 21st consecutive year this week. Above, the Lake City Bank branch is located just off SR 9 near Kroger.
Article provided
Lakeland Financial Corporation (Nasdaq Global Select/LKFN), parent company of Lake City Bank, today reported net income of $19.7 million for 2008 versus $19.2 million for 2007.
“For the 21st consecutive year, Lake City Bank established a new record for net income. We are extremely proud of this performance in the face of the intense economic and industry challenges we faced during the year,” commented Michael L. Kubacki, chairman, president and chief executive officer.
Net income of $19.7 million for 2008 represented an increase of 3% versus $19.2 million for 2007. Diluted net income per share for the year was $1.58 versus $1.55 for 2007. The Company reported net income of $4.4 million for the fourth quarter of 2008, a decrease of 8% versus $4.8 million reported for the fourth quarter of 2007. Diluted net income per share for the quarter was $0.35 versus $0.40 for the comparable period of 2007. On a linked quarter basis, fourth quarter results compared to net income of $5.2 million, or $0.42 per diluted share, for the third quarter of 2008.“Our business is not immune to the challenging conditions we are experiencing nationally and locally. As a result, we were impacted by higher loan losses during the year. Further, there is no question that our traditional commercial and industrial commercial borrowing base is undergoing a very stressful period, as reflected in our loan loss provision for the quarter and full year. Yet, we were able to conclude the year with gratifying results,” said Kubacki.
The Company also announced that the Board of Directors approved a cash dividend for the fourth quarter of $0.155 per share, payable on February 5, 2009 to shareholders of record as of January 25, 2009. The quarterly dividend represents an 11% increase over the quarterly dividends paid in 2007, and maintains the level of dividend paid for the third quarter of 2008.
Average total loans for the fourth quarter of 2008 were $1.77 billion versus $1.46 billion for the fourth quarter of 2007 and $1.69 billion for the linked third quarter of 2008. The year-over-year increase for the fourth quarter represented an increase of 21%, or $305 million. On a linked quarter basis, average loans increased by $82 million versus the third quarter of 2008. Total gross loans as of December 31, 2008 were $1.83 billion compared to $1.52 billion as of December 31, 2007 and $1.72 billion as of September 30, 2008.
“We are particularly proud of the fact that we are using our balance sheet to demonstrate our commitment to Lake City Bank’s clients. In the fourth quarter, we grew our loan portfolio by $116 million, or 7%, over the third quarter totals. There has been quite a bit of commentary during the past several months about the banking industry’s lack of commitment to expanding lending activity in 2008. Clearly, that is not the case with Lake City Bank, as we continued to maintain our historical lending standards while at the same time growing our loan portfolio to provide capital to our clients. Further, our participation in the Capital Purchase Program will bolster an already strong capital structure and balance sheet and provide us with the ability to continue to expand our lending activities in our Indiana footprint,” stated Kubacki.
The Company’s net interest margin was 3.14% in 2008 versus 3.22% in 2007. The net interest margin was 2.98% in the fourth quarter versus 3.14% in the comparable period of 2007 and 3.35% in the third quarter of 2008. The higher net interest margin in the third quarter of 2008 resulted primarily from the recognition of $1.2 million in interest income from the payoff of a loan that had been on nonaccrual. Excluding the impact of this event, the net interest margin would have been 3.12% for the third quarter. The decline in the net interest margin during the fourth quarter resulted primarily from the impact of the Federal Reserve Bank’s Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) actions. During the quarter, the FOMC reduced the target federal funds rate from 2.00% to a range of 0% to 0.25% at the conclusion of the quarter. The target fed funds rate on January 1, 2008 was 4.25%, therefore the FOMC lowered the target rate by a range of 4.00% to 4.25% in seven separate actions during the year. This unprecedented activity contributed to the decline in the Company’s margin as the cost of deposits and borrowed funds did not decline as rapidly as loan revenue. The loan revenue decline resulted directly from variable rate loans, which are generally linked to the prime rate. The prime rate concluded the year at 3.25% versus 7.25% at December 31, 2007.
The previously noted loan growth led to an increase in average earning assets, which contributed to an increase in net interest income of 14%. Net interest income grew to $16.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2008 versus $14.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2007. The Company’s provision for loan losses increased by $1.3 million, or 120%, to $2.3 million for the fourth quarter of 2008 versus $1.1 million in the same period of 2007. In the third quarter of 2008, the provision was $3.7 million. The provision increases in 2008 were primarily driven by a higher level of charge offs, strong loan growth and the overall weaker economic conditions in the Company’s markets.
The Company's noninterest expense was $12.6 million for the fourth quarter of 2008 compared to $11.4 million for the same period in 2007, an increase of 10%. This increase was driven primarily by increased regulatory expenses, as well as increases in payroll and benefit expenses. Other expense increased by $611,000, or 24%, in the quarter driven primarily by higher regulatory expenses of $508,000 due to the Company’s resumption of regular FDIC insurance premiums. Salaries and employee benefits increased by $258,000, or 4%, when compared to the same period in 2007 as a result of a combination of increases in health insurance and performance-based incentive expense, staff additions in administrative and commercial lending positions, normal merit increases and new office staff costs. The Company's efficiency ratio for the fourth quarter of 2008 was 59%, consistent with the same period in 2007. For the full year, the efficiency ratio was 55% versus 57% in 2007.
Net charge-offs totaled $1.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2008, versus $327,000 during the fourth quarter of 2007 and $3.6 million during the third quarter of 2008. Lakeland Financial’s allowance for loan losses as of December 31, 2008 was $18.9 million, compared to $15.8 million as of December 31, 2007 and $18.1 million as of September 30, 2008.
Nonperforming assets totaled $22.4 million as of December 31, 2008 compared to $21.1 million as of September 30, 2008 and $9.9 million on December 31, 2007. The ratio of nonperforming assets to assets was 0.94% on both December 31, 2008 and September 30, 2008, compared to 0.50% at December 31, 2007. The allowance for loan losses represented 89% of nonperforming loans as of December 31, 2008 versus 90% at September 30, 2008 and 212% at December 30, 2007.
For the three months ended December 31, 2008, Lakeland Financial’s average equity to average assets ratio was 6.56% compared to 6.88% for the third quarter of 2008 and 7.47% for the fourth quarter of 2007. Average stockholders' equity for the quarter ended December 31, 2008 was $151.3 million versus $152.0 million for the third quarter of 2008 and $143.9 million for the fourth quarter of 2007. Average total deposits for the quarter ended December 31, 2008 were $1.84 billion versus $1.64 billion for the third quarter of 2008 and $1.52 billion for the fourth quarter of 2007.
Earnings for the year ended December 31, 2008 were positively impacted by the pre-tax benefit of $642,000, or $382,000 after tax, realized from the first quarter initial public offering of Visa, Inc. common shares. Excluding the effect of the Visa transaction, net income for the year would have been $19.3 million and diluted earnings per share would have been $1.55.
Lakeland Financial Corporation is a $2.4 billion bank holding company headquartered in Warsaw, Indiana. Lake City Bank serves Northern Indiana with 43 branches located in the following Indiana counties: Kosciusko, Elkhart, Allen, St. Joseph, DeKalb, Fulton, Huntington, LaGrange, Marshall, Noble, Pulaski and Whitley. The Company also has a Loan Production Office in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Lakeland Financial Corporation may be accessed on its home page at ww.lakecitybank.com.
The Company’s common stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under “LKFN”. Market makers in Lakeland Financial Corporation common shares include Automated Trading Desk Financial Services, LLC, B-Trade Services, LLC, Citadel Derivatives Group, LLC, Citigroup Global Markets Holdings, Inc., Domestic Securities, Inc., E*TRADE Capital Markets LLC, FTN Financial Securities Corp., FTN Midwest Securities Corp., Goldman Sachs & Company, Howe Barnes Hoefer & Arnett, Inc., Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc., Knight Equity Markets, L.P., Lehman Brothers Inc., Morgan Stanley & Co., Inc., Stifel Nicolaus & Company, Inc., Susquehanna Capital Group and UBS Securities LLC.
Sycamore Village unveils memory care facility's new name: Keepsake Village
(Photo provided) The staff and residents, not shown, of Sycamore Village senior living community recently celebrated the naming of their memory care facility, Keepsake Village, with a reception, above.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Sycamore Village, located near SR 14 on the Whitley-Allen County Line Road in Dunfee, recently unveiled a new name for their memory care community.
“We wanted to give our memory care community a name that helped us tell our story,” said executive director David Deffenbaugh. “Keepsake Village is meant to honor the older adults we serve, now and in the future, who suffer from Alzheimer’s and other forms of memory loss.”
Staff and residents are excited about the new name and celebrated the unveiling of the name with a celebration recently.
“We feel the name is reflective of the care and services we provide and a statement about our mission at Sycamore Village,” Deffenbaugh added.
In addition to their memory care facility, Sycamore Village is proud to offer exciting independent and assisted living apartments for residents ages 55 and older with such ammenities as a spa, billiards, a lengthy social schedule, fine dining and more.
Sycamore Village unveils memory care facility's new name: Keepsake Village
(Photo provided) The staff and residents, not shown, of Sycamore Village senior living community recently celebrated the naming of their memory care facility, Keepsake Village, with a reception, above.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Sycamore Village, located near SR 14 on the Whitley-Allen County Line Road in Dunfee, recently unveiled a new name for their memory care community.
“We wanted to give our memory care community a name that helped us tell our story,” said executive director David Deffenbaugh. “Keepsake Village is meant to honor the older adults we serve, now and in the future, who suffer from Alzheimer’s and other forms of memory loss.”
Staff and residents are excited about the new name and celebrated the unveiling of the name with a celebration recently.
“We feel the name is reflective of the care and services we provide and a statement about our mission at Sycamore Village,” Deffenbaugh added.
In addition to their memory care facility, Sycamore Village is proud to offer exciting independent and assisted living apartments for residents ages 55 and older with such ammenities as a spa, billiards, a lengthy social schedule, fine dining and more.
UPDATED: Schools delayed this morning, one closed
Smith-Green Community Schools, Whitko Community Schools and Faith Christian Academy of Whitley County are all currently on two hour school and bus delays.
Whitley County Consolidated Schools are now closed for the day.
UPDATED: Schools delayed this morning, one closed
Smith-Green Community Schools, Whitko Community Schools and Faith Christian Academy of Whitley County are all currently on two hour school and bus delays.
Whitley County Consolidated Schools are now closed for the day.
January 29, 2009
M.C. Wheeler & Sons named Chamber's Business of the Month for January
(Talk of the Town photo by Michelle Culbertson) Present for the business of the month award ceremony were, from left in front, Trudy Miller-Longhenry of Simonson Estates, Angie Simcoe and Crystal Wheeler Leighty of M.C. Wheeler & Sons, Pat Hatcher of the Columbia City Chamber of Commerce, Kim Wheeler, owner of M.C. Wheeler & Sons. Row two from left is Kent Rethlake, Dan Richey, Chad Leighty, Randy Judd, Joe Taylor, and Nathan Wheeler, all employees of M.C. Wheeler & Sons.
By Michelle Culbertson
The weather was not very cooperative, but we were determined to honor our Business of the Month for January, M.C. Wheeler & Sons.
This long-standing plumbing, heating & air-conditioning, and well-drilling business began in 1884 (that’s 105 yrs!) and has been handed down from generation to generation in the Wheeler family. Current owner and manager Kim Wheeler plans to keep the tradition alive into the 5th generation as his son, Nathan Wheeler, and daughter, Crystal Wheeler Leighty, as well as his son-in-law Chad Leighty all work for the company.
Though times have been tough recently, the business has expanded in the last 15 years and is gearing up for bigger projects such as 12” wells like the one they placed for the city of Garrett.
Through the years, they have tried to be supportive of the Columbia City and Whitley County area by contributing to numerous high school sports & 4-H projects as well as being a long-standing members of the Columbia City Chamber of Commerce.
Kim Wheeler has also served on the county council and says that he wouldn’t have been able to keep the business going and serve in that way without having strong, long-term employees such as Kent Rethlake, Randy Judd and Dan Richey. And with tough economic times, they will be fighting hard to stay here and be competitive for the 100’s of people that they serve who count on them to be here!
As part of their January Business of the Month award, DQ Grill & Chill will be presenting the business with an ice cream cake in honor of their award.
M.C. Wheeler & Sons named Chamber's Business of the Month for January
(Talk of the Town photo by Michelle Culbertson) Present for the business of the month award ceremony were, from left in front, Trudy Miller-Longhenry of Simonson Estates, Angie Simcoe and Crystal Wheeler Leighty of M.C. Wheeler & Sons, Pat Hatcher of the Columbia City Chamber of Commerce, Kim Wheeler, owner of M.C. Wheeler & Sons. Row two from left is Kent Rethlake, Dan Richey, Chad Leighty, Randy Judd, Joe Taylor, and Nathan Wheeler, all employees of M.C. Wheeler & Sons.
By Michelle Culbertson
The weather was not very cooperative, but we were determined to honor our Business of the Month for January, M.C. Wheeler & Sons.
This long-standing plumbing, heating & air-conditioning, and well-drilling business began in 1884 (that’s 105 yrs!) and has been handed down from generation to generation in the Wheeler family. Current owner and manager Kim Wheeler plans to keep the tradition alive into the 5th generation as his son, Nathan Wheeler, and daughter, Crystal Wheeler Leighty, as well as his son-in-law Chad Leighty all work for the company.
Though times have been tough recently, the business has expanded in the last 15 years and is gearing up for bigger projects such as 12” wells like the one they placed for the city of Garrett.
Through the years, they have tried to be supportive of the Columbia City and Whitley County area by contributing to numerous high school sports & 4-H projects as well as being a long-standing members of the Columbia City Chamber of Commerce.
Kim Wheeler has also served on the county council and says that he wouldn’t have been able to keep the business going and serve in that way without having strong, long-term employees such as Kent Rethlake, Randy Judd and Dan Richey. And with tough economic times, they will be fighting hard to stay here and be competitive for the 100’s of people that they serve who count on them to be here!
As part of their January Business of the Month award, DQ Grill & Chill will be presenting the business with an ice cream cake in honor of their award.
Whitley County Sheriff Mark Hodges urges local students to apply for Indiana Sheriffs' Assocation Scholarships
Whitley County Sheriff Mark Hodges is pleased to announce that the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association will again be awarding college scholarships to qualified high school seniors or college students who are pursuing a degree in criminal justice studies. 
The Indiana Sheriffs’ Association Scholarship Fund was established for the purpose of receiving, investing and dispensing of funds to provide college scholarships to qualified students who are committed to pursuing an education and career in the law enforcement field.
To qualify for one of these scholarships, the applicant must be an Indiana resident, be a current member of the association or a dependent child or grandchild of a current member of the association, attend an Indiana college or university, major in a law enforcement field and enroll as a full-time student (12 hours).
Applications needed to apply for the scholarships are available from your high school counselor, the Whitley County Sheriff’s office or by writing to the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association, PO Box 19127, Indianapolis, Indiana 46219, and requesting an application form. The applications must be completed and received by the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association on or before April 1, 2009.
Whitley County Sheriff Mark Hodges urges local students to apply for Indiana Sheriffs' Assocation Scholarships
Whitley County Sheriff Mark Hodges is pleased to announce that the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association will again be awarding college scholarships to qualified high school seniors or college students who are pursuing a degree in criminal justice studies.
The Indiana Sheriffs’ Association Scholarship Fund was established for the purpose of receiving, investing and dispensing of funds to provide college scholarships to qualified students who are committed to pursuing an education and career in the law enforcement field.
To qualify for one of these scholarships, the applicant must be an Indiana resident, be a current member of the association or a dependent child or grandchild of a current member of the association, attend an Indiana college or university, major in a law enforcement field and enroll as a full-time student (12 hours).
Applications needed to apply for the scholarships are available from your high school counselor, the Whitley County Sheriff’s office or by writing to the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association, PO Box 19127, Indianapolis, Indiana 46219, and requesting an application form. The applications must be completed and received by the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association on or before April 1, 2009.
And the snow piles up...and up...
And the snow piles up...and up...
STAR Financial Bank hosted Agricultural Luncheon Wednesday at Eagles Nest Event Center
STAR Financial Bank hosted Agricultural Luncheon Wednesday at Eagles Nest Event Center
January 28, 2009
Unique sculpture raised funds for The Lighthouse
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Tyler Linder of Larwill, above, places a donation inside an ice sculpture of a lighthouse. Donations collected inside the sculpture were donated to The Lighthouse, Whitley County's only homeless shelter.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Visitors to the Fire & Ice Festival over the weekend may have spotted one sculpture that stood out from the rest -- it was a little "greener" than the others.
Ice carver Greg Mapps, of Gordon's Food Service, created and donated a sculpture in support of Interfaith Mission's The Lighthouse. Mapps carved a lighthouse out of ice with small openings around the sides where people could pitch their pennies or dollars in support of the county's only homeless shelter.
Over the course of the weekend, the ice lighthouse was filled with generous donations from festivalgoers. The donations have since been turned over to The Lighthouse.
Unique sculpture raised funds for The Lighthouse
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Tyler Linder of Larwill, above, places a donation inside an ice sculpture of a lighthouse. Donations collected inside the sculpture were donated to The Lighthouse, Whitley County's only homeless shelter.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Visitors to the Fire & Ice Festival over the weekend may have spotted one sculpture that stood out from the rest -- it was a little "greener" than the others.
Ice carver Greg Mapps, of Gordon's Food Service, created and donated a sculpture in support of Interfaith Mission's The Lighthouse. Mapps carved a lighthouse out of ice with small openings around the sides where people could pitch their pennies or dollars in support of the county's only homeless shelter.
Over the course of the weekend, the ice lighthouse was filled with generous donations from festivalgoers. The donations have since been turned over to The Lighthouse.
Kiwanis Club members learn more about Leadership Whitley County program at noon meeting today
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The Kiwanis Club of Whitley County met today at Big G's in Columbia City. Kelley Sheiss, director of the Leadership Whitley County program, above, gave a presentation on the county's premier servant leadership development program to club members. For more information about Leadership Whitley County, visit www.leadershipwc.org
Kiwanis Club members learn more about Leadership Whitley County program at noon meeting today
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The Kiwanis Club of Whitley County met today at Big G's in Columbia City. Kelley Sheiss, director of the Leadership Whitley County program, above, gave a presentation on the county's premier servant leadership development program to club members. For more information about Leadership Whitley County, visit www.leadershipwc.org
Weather impacts many activities this evening
Weather woes continue to cause delays and cancellations this evening. Here are a few:
- Churubusco High School’s boys basketball game versus Whitko postponed
- Columbia City Church of the Brethren evening activities cancelled
- New Hope Wesleyan Church evening services cancelled
- Tri Lakes Baptist Church evening activities cancelled
- Troy Presbyterian Church evening activities cancelled
- Columbia City Church of the Nazarene is closed today
- Columbia City Free Will Baptist Church evening activities are cancelled
- Grace Lutheran Church evening activities are cancelled
- Victory Christian Fellowship evening activities are cancelled
If you have an additional meeting, event or activity to add to this list, sent it via email to: jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com
Weather impacts many activities this evening
Weather woes continue to cause delays and cancellations this evening. Here are a few:
- Churubusco High School’s boys basketball game versus Whitko postponed
- Columbia City Church of the Brethren evening activities cancelled
- New Hope Wesleyan Church evening services cancelled
- Tri Lakes Baptist Church evening activities cancelled
- Troy Presbyterian Church evening activities cancelled
- Columbia City Church of the Nazarene is closed today
- Columbia City Free Will Baptist Church evening activities are cancelled
- Grace Lutheran Church evening activities are cancelled
- Victory Christian Fellowship evening activities are cancelled
If you have an additional meeting, event or activity to add to this list, sent it via email to: jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com
Kiwanis-Peabody Jeopardy Tournament to boast best & brightest brains in Whitley County
(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The glow of the Jeopardy screen illuminates the lower level of the Peabody Public Library last winter during the 2008 edition of the Kiwanis-Peabody Jeopardy Tournament. Plans are already underway for the 2009 event.
Article Provided
The excitement is building for the 6th Annual Kiwanis - Peabody Jeopardy Tournament. The teams are signing up, the categories and answers are ready, and winners from previous years are planning to do it again. 
“We are continually trying to improve the Jeopardy Tournament,” said Kiwanis President Steve Beck, “Last year we started providing each championship team member with a Winners Plaque. This year we decided to lower the entry fee to attract even more players.”
In addition to the plaques the Kiwanis - Peabody Jeopardy Tournament Trophy features each years tournament champion team on its base. The trophy is on display year round at the Peabody Library. Greg Hockemeyer will be returning for the enjoyable task of being “Alex”, the tournament’s moderator.
The fun begins with the preliminary rounds scheduled to start on Tuesday, February 17, 2009. The tournament will continue each Tuesday evening at 6:30 culminating with Final Jeopardy rounds on March 24.
Several teams have already signed up for this fun filled event. You too can sign up at B. E. Computer or at the Peabody Library. Anyone who is interested in being on a team, may contact the library. The library is keeping a list of individuals who would like to play but need help finding team mates.
The entry fee is $10 per person ($30.00 per three member team). Prizes are generously donated by local businesses and refreshments provided by the Friends of the Library.
“The Jeopardy Tournament is a charity event. The proceeds from it will help fund the children and community projects taken on by the Kiwanis Club of Whitley County.” added Beck.
Peabody librarian Ray Ranier commented, “Whether you are on a team, a Jeopardy fan, or just like to have a good time everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the fun of this year’s tournament.”
For more information on team registration, contact the Peabody Public Library at 244-5541.
Kiwanis-Peabody Jeopardy Tournament to boast best & brightest brains in Whitley County
(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The glow of the Jeopardy screen illuminates the lower level of the Peabody Public Library last winter during the 2008 edition of the Kiwanis-Peabody Jeopardy Tournament. Plans are already underway for the 2009 event.
Article Provided
The excitement is building for the 6th Annual Kiwanis - Peabody Jeopardy Tournament. The teams are signing up, the categories and answers are ready, and winners from previous years are planning to do it again.
“We are continually trying to improve the Jeopardy Tournament,” said Kiwanis President Steve Beck, “Last year we started providing each championship team member with a Winners Plaque. This year we decided to lower the entry fee to attract even more players.”
In addition to the plaques the Kiwanis - Peabody Jeopardy Tournament Trophy features each years tournament champion team on its base. The trophy is on display year round at the Peabody Library. Greg Hockemeyer will be returning for the enjoyable task of being “Alex”, the tournament’s moderator.
The fun begins with the preliminary rounds scheduled to start on Tuesday, February 17, 2009. The tournament will continue each Tuesday evening at 6:30 culminating with Final Jeopardy rounds on March 24.
Several teams have already signed up for this fun filled event. You too can sign up at B. E. Computer or at the Peabody Library. Anyone who is interested in being on a team, may contact the library. The library is keeping a list of individuals who would like to play but need help finding team mates.
The entry fee is $10 per person ($30.00 per three member team). Prizes are generously donated by local businesses and refreshments provided by the Friends of the Library.
“The Jeopardy Tournament is a charity event. The proceeds from it will help fund the children and community projects taken on by the Kiwanis Club of Whitley County.” added Beck.
Peabody librarian Ray Ranier commented, “Whether you are on a team, a Jeopardy fan, or just like to have a good time everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the fun of this year’s tournament.”
For more information on team registration, contact the Peabody Public Library at 244-5541.
Registration now underway for Girls Rock!
Event aimed at improving young girls' self-esteem
Article provided
The Whitley County Giving Circle for Women’s Health is proud to present Girls Rock! – an afternoon of fun, insightful activities designed to empower girls and help them to become healthy, confident individuals. 
According to September McConnell, executive director of the Whitley County Community Foundation, registration forms for the popular event are now available.
Open to Whitley County girls in grades 3, 4 & 5, the event is scheduled for Sunday, March 8 at Indian Springs Middle School from 1 to 4 p.m.
Admission is free, however pre-registration is required and enrollment is limited on a first-come basis. Girls should attend with a mom, aunt, grandmother or adult friend. Registration forms are available in the front offices of all elementary schools in Whitley County as well as local libraries.
There will be plenty of “A-ha!” moments as Right-Relations, an energetic professional group of counselors leads the sessions that will focus on topics such as accepting and celebrating differences, nutrition, muddling through emotions, working toward independence and creating a personal mission.
There’s even a special session designed just for moms who might benefit from shared discussion on how to talk about tough subjects. The group will share ideas for providing the tools girls need to become strong women.
In addition to scrumptious refreshments there will be great take-home items for all participants and awesome door-prizes.
To receive a registration form, contact the Whitley County Community Foundation at 244-5224.
The Whitley County Giving Circle for Women’s Health is a part of the Whitley County Community Foundation and exists to support projects and programs that impact the health of girls and women in our community.
Registration now underway for Girls Rock!
Event aimed at improving young girls' self-esteem
Article provided
The Whitley County Giving Circle for Women’s Health is proud to present Girls Rock! – an afternoon of fun, insightful activities designed to empower girls and help them to become healthy, confident individuals.
According to September McConnell, executive director of the Whitley County Community Foundation, registration forms for the popular event are now available.
Open to Whitley County girls in grades 3, 4 & 5, the event is scheduled for Sunday, March 8 at Indian Springs Middle School from 1 to 4 p.m.
Admission is free, however pre-registration is required and enrollment is limited on a first-come basis. Girls should attend with a mom, aunt, grandmother or adult friend. Registration forms are available in the front offices of all elementary schools in Whitley County as well as local libraries.
There will be plenty of “A-ha!” moments as Right-Relations, an energetic professional group of counselors leads the sessions that will focus on topics such as accepting and celebrating differences, nutrition, muddling through emotions, working toward independence and creating a personal mission.
There’s even a special session designed just for moms who might benefit from shared discussion on how to talk about tough subjects. The group will share ideas for providing the tools girls need to become strong women.
In addition to scrumptious refreshments there will be great take-home items for all participants and awesome door-prizes.
To receive a registration form, contact the Whitley County Community Foundation at 244-5224.
The Whitley County Giving Circle for Women’s Health is a part of the Whitley County Community Foundation and exists to support projects and programs that impact the health of girls and women in our community.
STAR Financial Bank reports record earnings for '08
Article provided
STAR Financial Bank announced record earnings for 2008 in a release issued late Tuesday afternoon.
Net income for the company stood at $14.0 million, up 25.5 percent compared to December 31, 2007, reflecting the best performance in the bank’s 65-year history. At year-end total assets increased 5.2 percent to $1.67 billion.
Total deposits grew 4.8 percent to $1.28 billion and total loans increased 10.1 percent to $1.31 billion at year-end 2008. STAR Financial Bank’s leverage, Tier 1 and risk-based capital ratios remain above the Federal Reserve’s “well capitalized” levels.
“The marketplace continues to be attracted to STAR. People want a bank that they know is safe and sound,” said President and CEO Jim Marcuccilli. “We continue to exercise discipline in our decisions,” he added.
Fourth quarter results reflected an increase in net income of 7.2 percent over the same period last year. Also in the fourth quarter, STAR Financial Bank opened its 46th office at the corner of 146th Street and Hazel Dell Parkway in Noblesville.
STAR Financial Bank reports record earnings for '08
Article provided
STAR Financial Bank announced record earnings for 2008 in a release issued late Tuesday afternoon.
Net income for the company stood at $14.0 million, up 25.5 percent compared to December 31, 2007, reflecting the best performance in the bank’s 65-year history. At year-end total assets increased 5.2 percent to $1.67 billion.
Total deposits grew 4.8 percent to $1.28 billion and total loans increased 10.1 percent to $1.31 billion at year-end 2008. STAR Financial Bank’s leverage, Tier 1 and risk-based capital ratios remain above the Federal Reserve’s “well capitalized” levels.
“The marketplace continues to be attracted to STAR. People want a bank that they know is safe and sound,” said President and CEO Jim Marcuccilli. “We continue to exercise discipline in our decisions,” he added.
Fourth quarter results reflected an increase in net income of 7.2 percent over the same period last year. Also in the fourth quarter, STAR Financial Bank opened its 46th office at the corner of 146th Street and Hazel Dell Parkway in Noblesville.
Schools close after snow covers Whitley County overnight
More than a few students awoke gleefully this morning to learn of school delays and were further delighted to hear that all of the schools in Whitley County have decided to close for the day. Indeed, Whitley County Consolidated, Smith-Green Community Schools, Whitko Schools and Faith Christian Academy of Whitley County are all closed for the day.
Schools close after snow covers Whitley County overnight
More than a few students awoke gleefully this morning to learn of school delays and were further delighted to hear that all of the schools in Whitley County have decided to close for the day. Indeed, Whitley County Consolidated, Smith-Green Community Schools, Whitko Schools and Faith Christian Academy of Whitley County are all closed for the day.
January 27, 2009
Snapshots: Sunday afternoon at the Fire & Ice Fest
Snapshots: Sunday afternoon at the Fire & Ice Fest
Snapshots: Saturday afternoon at the Fire & Ice Festival in downtown Columbia City
Snapshots: Saturday afternoon at the Fire & Ice Festival in downtown Columbia City
January 26, 2009
Snapshots: The Fire & Ice Festival Chili Cookoff
Snapshots: The Fire & Ice Festival Chili Cookoff
Sheiss, Slusher & Saldivar win Chili Cookoff
(Talk of the Town photo by Tony Romano) Winners of the Fire & Ice Festival’s Chili Cookoff were, from left, Kelley Sheiss, with her son Dillon, Dorothy Slusher and AJ Saldivar.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The people have spoken.
And for the second consecutive year, the people of Whitley County have selected Etna Troy township resident Kelley Sheiss as the People’s Choice winner of the Whitley County Council on Aging’s Chili Cookoff Sunday afternoon.
As a perfect balance to the trophy she took home in last year’s contest, Sheiss took home a second trophy yesterday – adding to her growing reputation as Whitley County’s cook. Sheiss was also a member of the The Center’s Cookoff winning team last spring.
The first place award went to Dorothy Slusher, the Parkview Whitley Hospital food service department employee who won their intra-organizational cookoff for the opportunity to represent the hospital at the event on Sunday. Slusher took home the $100 prize award. Slusher is a Pierceton resident.
The “Most Unusual” award went to Whitko High School student AJ Saldivar. Tasters indicated his recipe was quite delicious with a sweet, spicy flavor. Saldivar took home a $50 prize.
Overall, this year’s chili cookoff event was well-attended and included more participants than last year’s event with 14 entries.
According to The Woodlands Senior Center director Jackie Hake, 247 people came through to sample cookoff entries this year. “There may have even been a few more,” she added. An estimated 200 people attended the event last year on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn. “We had a really good turnout,” she said.
“It was so nice to be indoors because it was such a cold day,” Hake said, mentioning that last year’s event was held outdoors in a tent. Despite heaters in the tent, it was still chilly and created difficulty for participants to move easily to each station.
This year’s cookoff was held inside The Center, creating a unique partnership between seniors and the community’s youths. Hake said a donation from the event will be given to The Center. “It’s the young people giving to the seniors and the seniors giving back to the young people,” Hake said.
Hake said plans are already in place to present the event again next year. “It is absolutely a good community project and a good fundraiser,” Hake said.
“Thank you to everyone who was involved this year and we look forward to seeing you next year,” Hake added.
Click the link below for Kelley Sheiss’ winning People’s Choice recipe:
Bahama Mama Chili
By Kelley Sheiss
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1-2 pounds slow-cooked pork butt (shoulder), shredded
2 Tbsp. brown sugar
1 onion, chopped
2 Tbsp. garlic
½ cup non-alcoholic margarita mix
½ cup lemon-lime soda
1 large can diced tomatoes
1 small can tomato paste
1 can crushed pineapple, drained
1 small jar salsa (mild to medium)
Notes:
To add some more “spice”, add several dashes of Tabasco or a hotter salsa. Can also add red pepper to taste.
If pineapple salsa is available, it can be used in place of crushed pineapple and salsa.
For a “juicier” chili, add one can of tomato sauce and or do not drain pineapple
To Make:
Slow cook pork shoulder at least one day before; cool and shred.
Brown ground beef with onion and garlic. Mix in brown sugar. Combine beef, shredded pork and all other ingredients in slow cooker. Cook on low at least 6-8 hours. Serve with lime tortilla chips or soft tortillas.
Sheiss, Slusher & Saldivar win Chili Cookoff
(Talk of the Town photo by Tony Romano) Winners of the Fire & Ice Festival’s Chili Cookoff were, from left, Kelley Sheiss, with her son Dillon, Dorothy Slusher and AJ Saldivar.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The people have spoken.
And for the second consecutive year, the people of Whitley County have selected Etna Troy township resident Kelley Sheiss as the People’s Choice winner of the Whitley County Council on Aging’s Chili Cookoff Sunday afternoon.
As a perfect balance to the trophy she took home in last year’s contest, Sheiss took home a second trophy yesterday – adding to her growing reputation as Whitley County’s cook. Sheiss was also a member of the The Center’s Cookoff winning team last spring.
The first place award went to Dorothy Slusher, the Parkview Whitley Hospital food service department employee who won their intra-organizational cookoff for the opportunity to represent the hospital at the event on Sunday. Slusher took home the $100 prize award. Slusher is a Pierceton resident.
The “Most Unusual” award went to Whitko High School student AJ Saldivar. Tasters indicated his recipe was quite delicious with a sweet, spicy flavor. Saldivar took home a $50 prize.
Overall, this year’s chili cookoff event was well-attended and included more participants than last year’s event with 14 entries.
According to The Woodlands Senior Center director Jackie Hake, 247 people came through to sample cookoff entries this year. “There may have even been a few more,” she added. An estimated 200 people attended the event last year on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn. “We had a really good turnout,” she said.
“It was so nice to be indoors because it was such a cold day,” Hake said, mentioning that last year’s event was held outdoors in a tent. Despite heaters in the tent, it was still chilly and created difficulty for participants to move easily to each station.
This year’s cookoff was held inside The Center, creating a unique partnership between seniors and the community’s youths. Hake said a donation from the event will be given to The Center. “It’s the young people giving to the seniors and the seniors giving back to the young people,” Hake said.
Hake said plans are already in place to present the event again next year. “It is absolutely a good community project and a good fundraiser,” Hake said.
“Thank you to everyone who was involved this year and we look forward to seeing you next year,” Hake added.
Click the link below for Kelley Sheiss’ winning People’s Choice recipe:
Bahama Mama Chili
By Kelley Sheiss
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1-2 pounds slow-cooked pork butt (shoulder), shredded
2 Tbsp. brown sugar
1 onion, chopped
2 Tbsp. garlic
½ cup non-alcoholic margarita mix
½ cup lemon-lime soda
1 large can diced tomatoes
1 small can tomato paste
1 can crushed pineapple, drained
1 small jar salsa (mild to medium)
Notes:
To add some more “spice”, add several dashes of Tabasco or a hotter salsa. Can also add red pepper to taste.
If pineapple salsa is available, it can be used in place of crushed pineapple and salsa.
For a “juicier” chili, add one can of tomato sauce and or do not drain pineapple
To Make:
Slow cook pork shoulder at least one day before; cool and shred.
Brown ground beef with onion and garlic. Mix in brown sugar. Combine beef, shredded pork and all other ingredients in slow cooker. Cook on low at least 6-8 hours. Serve with lime tortilla chips or soft tortillas.
Faith Christian Academy attends the circus thanks to Whitley County Shriners
Faith Christian Academy attends the circus thanks to Whitley County Shriners
Whitley County & The Civil War
Editor’s Note: On Sunday, February 8, 2009, at 1 p.m., a program at the Whitley County Historical Museum is planned. The program will be orchestrated by Russ Gilliom, president of the 30th Indiana Civil War Re-enactors Group. The program will center around the Civil War soldier (Infantry, Artillery, Navy and maybe even a drummer) and what it was like to serve in the Civil War from the eyes of those people. Guns and other equipment used will be on display.
By Chuck Jones
During the 1840’s and 1850’s, Whitley County continued to grow as land was available and many were moving westward looking for a new life.
Our country was also growing westward but with that growth came the issue of a new state or territory being either a free state or a slave state. Debates in Congress would work out compromises that would set aside one as a free and the next as a slave state or territory so as to keep an even balance between the two.
Abe Lincoln and Stephen Douglas, candidates for President in 1860 spent much time debating the slave vs. Free State issue. Lincoln was not a true abolitionist but he believed the enslavement of any man was wrong. In regard to African Americans, he felt it best if they were let free, landowners were paid for the loss of their laborers and that they the African Americans would be better off in colonies perhaps even in other countries.
Because of the differences that existed between the Northern States and the Southern states that were very dependent on slaves for their large plantations, late in 1860 Southern States began to withdraw from the Union. Lincoln won the election and was immediately involved in handling this problem. Believing that a House Divided against itself cannot stand, and to preserve the Union, Abe saw no way out but to begin immobilizing an army and navy and fight to save the Union. Later in January of 1863 Abe declared that the cause was to end slavery in his famous Emancipation Proclamation speech.
A rally was held at the Whitley County Court House on April 20, 1861. Patriotic speeches were given by several men and a resolution pledging loyal support to the Union was adopted. The population of Whitley County was 12,000 by this time and Whitley County over the course of the four years of the war provided 1786 men to the cause. Men from this county fought with the 17th, 44th , 74th, ,88th, 100th, 129th, and the 152nd Infantry units. A large portion of the 5th Indiana Light Artillery Battery came from the county (my great grandfather Daniel Jones and great uncle Wm. Jones were a part of that unit). Imagine the drain of resources sending the main bread provider off to war put on families.
In December of 1862, superintendents of soldier’s families were appointed. Their duty was to investigate the circumstances of the families of the soldiers. From Smith Township, Francis Tulley was appointed. $3 was given to the spouse and $1 for each child. Wives of the soldiers without children were not included in the relief except in case of sickness. It was such a drain on county funds that in June of 1864 limitations were put on the monies available to the families.
In October of 1861, the women of the county organized the Whitley County Soldiers Aid Society. The object of these groups, which were formed throughout the State, was to make such articles as blankets, mittens, socks, woolen drawers and shirts for the men. They did the same thing we do today to raise funds with bake sales, auctions, etc.
When the war was over 620,000 men died either in battle or from disease (360,000 were from the Northern troops and 260,000 from the South). It put a great drain on the economies of all states and in 1865 dollars the wars cost was over $3,000,000,000.
After the war ended men who made it through the war returned to their families, many with injuries and illnesses that would inflict them the rest of their lives.
The Whitley County Museum has the names of most all the men who fought in all wars up through WWII, including the Civil War, from this county and the units they fought in. You can also find that list on web site genealogy.whitleynet.org under military servicemen.
Whitley County & The Civil War
Editor’s Note: On Sunday, February 8, 2009, at 1 p.m., a program at the Whitley County Historical Museum is planned. The program will be orchestrated by Russ Gilliom, president of the 30th Indiana Civil War Re-enactors Group. The program will center around the Civil War soldier (Infantry, Artillery, Navy and maybe even a drummer) and what it was like to serve in the Civil War from the eyes of those people. Guns and other equipment used will be on display.
By Chuck Jones
During the 1840’s and 1850’s, Whitley County continued to grow as land was available and many were moving westward looking for a new life.
Our country was also growing westward but with that growth came the issue of a new state or territory being either a free state or a slave state. Debates in Congress would work out compromises that would set aside one as a free and the next as a slave state or territory so as to keep an even balance between the two.
Abe Lincoln and Stephen Douglas, candidates for President in 1860 spent much time debating the slave vs. Free State issue. Lincoln was not a true abolitionist but he believed the enslavement of any man was wrong. In regard to African Americans, he felt it best if they were let free, landowners were paid for the loss of their laborers and that they the African Americans would be better off in colonies perhaps even in other countries.
Because of the differences that existed between the Northern States and the Southern states that were very dependent on slaves for their large plantations, late in 1860 Southern States began to withdraw from the Union. Lincoln won the election and was immediately involved in handling this problem. Believing that a House Divided against itself cannot stand, and to preserve the Union, Abe saw no way out but to begin immobilizing an army and navy and fight to save the Union. Later in January of 1863 Abe declared that the cause was to end slavery in his famous Emancipation Proclamation speech.
A rally was held at the Whitley County Court House on April 20, 1861. Patriotic speeches were given by several men and a resolution pledging loyal support to the Union was adopted. The population of Whitley County was 12,000 by this time and Whitley County over the course of the four years of the war provided 1786 men to the cause. Men from this county fought with the 17th, 44th , 74th, ,88th, 100th, 129th, and the 152nd Infantry units. A large portion of the 5th Indiana Light Artillery Battery came from the county (my great grandfather Daniel Jones and great uncle Wm. Jones were a part of that unit). Imagine the drain of resources sending the main bread provider off to war put on families.
In December of 1862, superintendents of soldier’s families were appointed. Their duty was to investigate the circumstances of the families of the soldiers. From Smith Township, Francis Tulley was appointed. $3 was given to the spouse and $1 for each child. Wives of the soldiers without children were not included in the relief except in case of sickness. It was such a drain on county funds that in June of 1864 limitations were put on the monies available to the families.
In October of 1861, the women of the county organized the Whitley County Soldiers Aid Society. The object of these groups, which were formed throughout the State, was to make such articles as blankets, mittens, socks, woolen drawers and shirts for the men. They did the same thing we do today to raise funds with bake sales, auctions, etc.
When the war was over 620,000 men died either in battle or from disease (360,000 were from the Northern troops and 260,000 from the South). It put a great drain on the economies of all states and in 1865 dollars the wars cost was over $3,000,000,000.
After the war ended men who made it through the war returned to their families, many with injuries and illnesses that would inflict them the rest of their lives.
The Whitley County Museum has the names of most all the men who fought in all wars up through WWII, including the Civil War, from this county and the units they fought in. You can also find that list on web site genealogy.whitleynet.org under military servicemen.
January 25, 2009
Chili Cookoff will begin shortly
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The event that put the “fire” in the Fire & Ice Festival, the Whitley County Council on Aging’s Chili Cookoff will begin shortly.
The Chili Cookoff will be held in The Center at the corner of Market and Chauncey Streets in the gym. The event will be open to the public from 12-2 p.m. today.
For $5, visitors can sample chili prepared by local amateurs and professionals and select a “People’s Choice” winner. Other prizes will be awarded as well.
Once you’ve filled up on chili, venture outside where you can watch the ice carvers compete in a creative carving challenge on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn.
Chili Cookoff will begin shortly
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The event that put the “fire” in the Fire & Ice Festival, the Whitley County Council on Aging’s Chili Cookoff will begin shortly.
The Chili Cookoff will be held in The Center at the corner of Market and Chauncey Streets in the gym. The event will be open to the public from 12-2 p.m. today.
For $5, visitors can sample chili prepared by local amateurs and professionals and select a “People’s Choice” winner. Other prizes will be awarded as well.
Once you’ve filled up on chili, venture outside where you can watch the ice carvers compete in a creative carving challenge on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn.
Snapshots: The Fire & Ice Bazaar
Snapshots: The Fire & Ice Bazaar
CC Deli Soups of the Week for January 26-30
The soups of the week for the week of January 26-30, 2009, at the CC Deli include:
Monday: Tomato Tortellini and French Onion
Tuesday: Chicken Noodle and Cheesy Potato
Wednesday: Talk of the Town White Chili and Stuffed Pepper
Thursday: Beef & Noodle and Potato Bacon
Friday: Veggie Beef and Chili
CC Deli Soups of the Week for January 26-30
The soups of the week for the week of January 26-30, 2009, at the CC Deli include:
Monday: Tomato Tortellini and French Onion
Tuesday: Chicken Noodle and Cheesy Potato
Wednesday: Talk of the Town White Chili and Stuffed Pepper
Thursday: Beef & Noodle and Potato Bacon
Friday: Veggie Beef and Chili
January 24, 2009
Contestants said Dairy Queen Brain Freeze ice cream eating contest was a scream!
Contestants said Dairy Queen Brain Freeze ice cream eating contest was a scream!
The crowds are growing downtown
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The crowd is growing by the hour downtown today as people come to see the fourth annual Fire & Ice Festival on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn. Ice carvers are currently lined up along Van Buren Street and continuing south on Chauncey Street.
The crowds are growing downtown
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The crowd is growing by the hour downtown today as people come to see the fourth annual Fire & Ice Festival on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn. Ice carvers are currently lined up along Van Buren Street and continuing south on Chauncey Street.
Let the snow fly! Fire & Ice Festival kicks off today
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Activity is already apparent on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn as volunteers begin moving ice blocks and carvers, after finishing their breakfast at Big G’s, are preparing to let the snow fly!
If you’re wondering what’s going on today, here’s a quick glimpse of what you can expect on and around the courthouse lawn:
Ice carving throughout the day
Fire & Ice Festival Bazaar at The Center from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Brain Freeze Ice Cream Eating Contest at 11 a.m. Register before 10 a.m. All ages.
Free hot chocolate from Drug Free Indiana & Relay for Life all day
YMCA Kid’s Corner activities at The Center 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Shopping and big sales at downtown businesses 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Click the link below to see a full list of this year’s sculptures and their locations.
Let the snow fly! Fire & Ice Festival kicks off today
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Activity is already apparent on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn as volunteers begin moving ice blocks and carvers, after finishing their breakfast at Big G’s, are preparing to let the snow fly!
If you’re wondering what’s going on today, here’s a quick glimpse of what you can expect on and around the courthouse lawn:
Ice carving throughout the day
Fire & Ice Festival Bazaar at The Center from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Brain Freeze Ice Cream Eating Contest at 11 a.m. Register before 10 a.m. All ages.
Free hot chocolate from Drug Free Indiana & Relay for Life all day
YMCA Kid’s Corner activities at The Center 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Shopping and big sales at downtown businesses 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Click the link below to see a full list of this year’s sculptures and their locations.
Governor Mitch Daniels makes a stop in town for lunch Friday, greeting local residents
(Talk of the Town photos by Lyn Lancaster) Governor Mitch Daniels' visit to Columbia City for lunch Friday was a topic of conversation for many. The informal event enabled the Governor to speak with local residents about issues of concern to them. Above, Daniels talks with an unidentified man. At bottom, Daniels visits with a group of local residents, including Scott Dailey, second from right, and Jim Macino, far right.
By Lyn Lancaster
Big G's in Columbia City was a little busier than usual on Friday as word spread quickly Governor Mitch Daniels would be stopping by for a bite to eat.
The Governor was touring the WorkOne sites in Elkhart and Fort Wayne and took the time to stop for lunch in CC, saying he had his favorite places and his staff heard this was a good place to eat.
This is the third time the Governor has stopped at the local restaurant, according to owner Gary Parrett, who added some extra staff today for the special event.
"It's an honor and a pleasure to have him here," said Parrett, adding this is the first time Big G's has really publicized the stop.
The Governor took the time to greet and visit with a number of local residents. Northern Heights Elementary first grader Dillon Sheiss had the chance to visit with Daniels and ask him what it was like to work for a President. Daniels said it was a tough job and a lot of hard work, but he enjoyed it.
Sheiss said he was nervous at first, but when the Governor sat down across from him he seemed "just like a regular guy."
"He'd make a nice third grandpa if I could pick one," he added. Sheiss and his uncle, David Sheiss, talked with Daniels about agriculture and the value of the family farm.
Daniels said "As I drove up here and watched the fields go by, I realized that in times like we are in now people should appreciate agriculture all the more."
Several lunch-goers thanked Daniels for the work he had accomplished. "Our folks have done a good job," said Daniels.
Upon taking a quick glance at the menu, Daniels turned to a group of gentlemen from W.A. Jones and asked for their recommendation. They were quick to suggest a tenderloin sandwich, which Daniels enjoyed while visiting with several other workers who stopped in for lunch.
Local elected officials and business people also were present. County Council President Tom Western hoped to have a moment to visit with the Governor and discuss the ramifications of House Bill 1001 and the proposed changes to local and county government, however the Governor’s focus was to talk with the residents of Whitley County about the matters weighing on their minds.
Governor Mitch Daniels makes a stop in town for lunch Friday, greeting local residents
(Talk of the Town photos by Lyn Lancaster) Governor Mitch Daniels' visit to Columbia City for lunch Friday was a topic of conversation for many. The informal event enabled the Governor to speak with local residents about issues of concern to them. Above, Daniels talks with an unidentified man. At bottom, Daniels visits with a group of local residents, including Scott Dailey, second from right, and Jim Macino, far right.
By Lyn Lancaster
Big G's in Columbia City was a little busier than usual on Friday as word spread quickly Governor Mitch Daniels would be stopping by for a bite to eat.
The Governor was touring the WorkOne sites in Elkhart and Fort Wayne and took the time to stop for lunch in CC, saying he had his favorite places and his staff heard this was a good place to eat.
This is the third time the Governor has stopped at the local restaurant, according to owner Gary Parrett, who added some extra staff today for the special event.
"It's an honor and a pleasure to have him here," said Parrett, adding this is the first time Big G's has really publicized the stop.
The Governor took the time to greet and visit with a number of local residents. Northern Heights Elementary first grader Dillon Sheiss had the chance to visit with Daniels and ask him what it was like to work for a President. Daniels said it was a tough job and a lot of hard work, but he enjoyed it.
Sheiss said he was nervous at first, but when the Governor sat down across from him he seemed "just like a regular guy."
"He'd make a nice third grandpa if I could pick one," he added. Sheiss and his uncle, David Sheiss, talked with Daniels about agriculture and the value of the family farm.
Daniels said "As I drove up here and watched the fields go by, I realized that in times like we are in now people should appreciate agriculture all the more."
Several lunch-goers thanked Daniels for the work he had accomplished. "Our folks have done a good job," said Daniels.
Upon taking a quick glance at the menu, Daniels turned to a group of gentlemen from W.A. Jones and asked for their recommendation. They were quick to suggest a tenderloin sandwich, which Daniels enjoyed while visiting with several other workers who stopped in for lunch.
Local elected officials and business people also were present. County Council President Tom Western hoped to have a moment to visit with the Governor and discuss the ramifications of House Bill 1001 and the proposed changes to local and county government, however the Governor’s focus was to talk with the residents of Whitley County about the matters weighing on their minds.
Mary Raber students celebrate 100th day of school with a pile of gifts for the Salvation Army
(Talk of the Town photo by Alison Oelschlager) The six first and second grade classes at Mary Raber Elementary School in Columbia City collected toiletry items to help celebrate the 100th day of school, which was Thursday, January 22. 
The goal, according to teacher Alison Oelschlager, was to collect 100 total items but, they did even better. “We collected 268 items,” Oelschlager said.
Items collected included bars of soap, shampoo and conditioner, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, lotion and toilet paper.
“We donated all the items to the Salvation Army,” Oelschlager said. “The items will be used to make care packages for local families.”
At top, standing on the far left is Pat Mossburg, director of the Salvation Army of Whitley County. Mossburg is surrounded by students representing the six first and second grade classes at Mary Raber Elementary School. At right, a closer look at the items donated by Mary Raber Elementary School students.
Mary Raber students celebrate 100th day of school with a pile of gifts for the Salvation Army
(Talk of the Town photo by Alison Oelschlager) The six first and second grade classes at Mary Raber Elementary School in Columbia City collected toiletry items to help celebrate the 100th day of school, which was Thursday, January 22.
The goal, according to teacher Alison Oelschlager, was to collect 100 total items but, they did even better. “We collected 268 items,” Oelschlager said.
Items collected included bars of soap, shampoo and conditioner, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, lotion and toilet paper.
“We donated all the items to the Salvation Army,” Oelschlager said. “The items will be used to make care packages for local families.”
At top, standing on the far left is Pat Mossburg, director of the Salvation Army of Whitley County. Mossburg is surrounded by students representing the six first and second grade classes at Mary Raber Elementary School. At right, a closer look at the items donated by Mary Raber Elementary School students.
January 23, 2009
Governor Mitch Daniels spends lunchtime visit getting to know the people of Whitley County
Governor Mitch Daniels spends lunchtime visit getting to know the people of Whitley County
Final preparations underway for Fire & Ice Festival in downtown Columbia City tomorrow, Sunday
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Members of the Fire & Ice Festival committee are putting the finishing touches 
on plans for tomorrow’s events around the Whitley County Courthouse lawns as the annual Fire & Festival kicks off tomorrow morning in downtown Columbia City. The ice carvers will enjoy breakfast at Big G’s restaurant around 7 a.m. and shortly thereafter, the carving of sponsor’s sculptures will begin and continue throughout the day downtown.
From 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday, stop by The Center at the corner of Chauncey and Market Street to warm up and view the Fire & Ice Bazaar as well as children’s activities.
Sunday will bring the annual Whitley County Council on Aging’s Chili Cookoff at The Center and ice carving competitions will be held on the courthouse lawn during the afternoon.
Above, committee member Stan Horne holds a photograph of an Eskimo he plans to carve during the festival on Saturday. Once finished, visitors to the downtown will be able to have their photographs taken with the sculpture.
Final preparations underway for Fire & Ice Festival in downtown Columbia City tomorrow, Sunday
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Members of the Fire & Ice Festival committee are putting the finishing touches on plans for tomorrow’s events around the Whitley County Courthouse lawns as the annual Fire & Festival kicks off tomorrow morning in downtown Columbia City. The ice carvers will enjoy breakfast at Big G’s restaurant around 7 a.m. and shortly thereafter, the carving of sponsor’s sculptures will begin and continue throughout the day downtown.
From 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday, stop by The Center at the corner of Chauncey and Market Street to warm up and view the Fire & Ice Bazaar as well as children’s activities.
Sunday will bring the annual Whitley County Council on Aging’s Chili Cookoff at The Center and ice carving competitions will be held on the courthouse lawn during the afternoon.
Above, committee member Stan Horne holds a photograph of an Eskimo he plans to carve during the festival on Saturday. Once finished, visitors to the downtown will be able to have their photographs taken with the sculpture.
Parkview ponders future uses for Oak Street facility
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) John Meister, chief operations officer for Parkview Whitley Hospital, below, gave his fellow Columbia City Rotary Club members an overview of plans for the new Parkview Whitley Hospital. Meister also answered several questions that have been on many people's minds regarding the new campus.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
There are three things John Meister is regularly asked about regarding the construction of the new Parkview Whitley Hospital.
People want to know when Parkview will break ground for the facility. They want to know when the hospital will open. And they want to know what will happen with the old hospital on Oak Street in Columbia City. 
Answers for the first two questions, while impacted by several factors, are easier to find. But, according to Meister, the answer to the latter question is an important concern on many minds – including those at Parkview Health who feel it is a building with a lot of life left in it.
“I don’t have an answer, today, to that question,” Meister said.
Meister then elaborated on several possibilities currently under discussion for the site – including the possibility that the site may one day be used as a high tech high school.
Describing the need to prepare students for jobs of the future, “The nirvana will be to address that need in a very high tech way.”
The Lehmberg Building, adjacent to the hospital, Meister said, could be used as the site for the business incubator program currently being created. The incubator program would help small start-up businesses get established and grow, further developing commerce and industry in Whitley County.
“Huntington University and Ivy Tech are also interested in space,” Meister said.
As for the first two questions, Parkview will ceremoniously broke ground in October 2008 and construction is expected to being in the fall of 2009. The opening date for the facility is estimated to be sometime in November or December 2011.
The 96,000 square foot facility with 30 beds will including 21 medical/surgical beds and five labor and delivery in a concise, well-planned two and a half story structure overlooking natural wetland areas and using principles of green building in a wellness-centric environment.
Meister noted that we are now living in what he describes as “a revolutionary time in hospital design,” when facilities are being built that meld concepts like noise reduction, improvements in infection control, spirituality, programmatic orientation and awareness about how colors and sound can improve patient outcomes.
“This is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Meister said. “It allows us to reflect on how we deliver effective care.”
For more information about the hospital, including the groundbreaking ceremony that was held in October 2008, click here.
Parkview ponders future uses for Oak Street facility
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) John Meister, chief operations officer for Parkview Whitley Hospital, below, gave his fellow Columbia City Rotary Club members an overview of plans for the new Parkview Whitley Hospital. Meister also answered several questions that have been on many people's minds regarding the new campus.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
There are three things John Meister is regularly asked about regarding the construction of the new Parkview Whitley Hospital.
People want to know when Parkview will break ground for the facility. They want to know when the hospital will open. And they want to know what will happen with the old hospital on Oak Street in Columbia City.
Answers for the first two questions, while impacted by several factors, are easier to find. But, according to Meister, the answer to the latter question is an important concern on many minds – including those at Parkview Health who feel it is a building with a lot of life left in it.
“I don’t have an answer, today, to that question,” Meister said.
Meister then elaborated on several possibilities currently under discussion for the site – including the possibility that the site may one day be used as a high tech high school.
Describing the need to prepare students for jobs of the future, “The nirvana will be to address that need in a very high tech way.”
The Lehmberg Building, adjacent to the hospital, Meister said, could be used as the site for the business incubator program currently being created. The incubator program would help small start-up businesses get established and grow, further developing commerce and industry in Whitley County.
“Huntington University and Ivy Tech are also interested in space,” Meister said.
As for the first two questions, Parkview will ceremoniously broke ground in October 2008 and construction is expected to being in the fall of 2009. The opening date for the facility is estimated to be sometime in November or December 2011.
The 96,000 square foot facility with 30 beds will including 21 medical/surgical beds and five labor and delivery in a concise, well-planned two and a half story structure overlooking natural wetland areas and using principles of green building in a wellness-centric environment.
Meister noted that we are now living in what he describes as “a revolutionary time in hospital design,” when facilities are being built that meld concepts like noise reduction, improvements in infection control, spirituality, programmatic orientation and awareness about how colors and sound can improve patient outcomes.
“This is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Meister said. “It allows us to reflect on how we deliver effective care.”
For more information about the hospital, including the groundbreaking ceremony that was held in October 2008, click here.
January 22, 2009
Commissioners hear request for drainage attorney, Sheriff's Department vehicles
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) County commissioners, from left, Tom Rethlake, Mike Schrader and Don Amber listened to a variety of requests Tuesday afternoon.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Whitley County Sheriff Mark Hodges appeared before the county commissioners Tuesday in hopes of securing approval to buy three new vehicles for the department this year.
“There will not be any new additions to the fleet – just replacing the old with the new,” Hodges said. Regarding the three oldest and high mileage vehicles, Hodges said, “They’re about the highest mileage we like to put out there.”
Hodges’ plan is to take three of the highest mile vehicles out of daily use and move those into use by reserve deputies. From there, three of the very oldest or in once case, less needed vehicles, would then potentially be sold at the county auction or could be allocated to other uses by the county.
The “less needed” vehicle is a 1990 Dodge van formerly used by the Whitley County Drug Task force. Once outfitted with the latest technology, the vehicle is now outdated and Hodges feels the cost of updated it would not be a good use of county funds. “There is no reason right now to have a vehicle like that,” Hodges said.
Hodges hopes to use the $80,000 to purchase a Crown Victoria, an additional Ford Explorer for crime scene investigation and possibly a Dodge. Each of the vehicles, he said, would be fully-equipped.
Commissioners Tom Rethlake and Don Amber both asked whether local car dealerships were involved in the bid process to sell vehicles to the Sheriff’s Department.
“I appreciate trying to stay at home as much as you can on this,” said Amber. “I think it should be right that everyone in our area, especially in our county, should get to bid.”
The commissioners agreed to recommend the purchase to the Whitley County Council.
In other matters:
Dan Weigold brought forth a request to find $7,500 worth of funds to pay for the services of an attorney to address drainage concerns. According to Weigold, $15,000 worth of fees were exhausted in 2008, depleting budgeted funds to cover such expenses.
“We have some drainage issues coming up where an attorney is extremely necessary, Weigold said.
The request will be forwarded to Whitley County Council.
County coordinator Amy Crickmore recommended that Lifeworks counseling service be added as another option for county employees seeking counseling services. Crickmore asked that they continue to keep Family Care Center on the list of providers as well.
“At least this gives employees a couple of options,” said commissioner Mike Schrader.
Commissioners then signed a one-year contract with Lifeworks counseling service.
Commissioners briefly discussed the purchase of backup batteries for county-owned computers. The estimated cost was $69 per battery and $80 for installation.
The commissioners were unsure how to proceed and were unsure how many computers would be in need of backup batteries.
“Does every computer need one if we have backup on the server somewhere,” Amber asked, requesting that the number of batteries be determined before considering the matter further.
Commissioners also approved use of the Whitley County Courthouse square for the annual Junior Achievement Car Show on August 1.
Commissioners hear request for drainage attorney, Sheriff's Department vehicles
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) County commissioners, from left, Tom Rethlake, Mike Schrader and Don Amber listened to a variety of requests Tuesday afternoon.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Whitley County Sheriff Mark Hodges appeared before the county commissioners Tuesday in hopes of securing approval to buy three new vehicles for the department this year.
“There will not be any new additions to the fleet – just replacing the old with the new,” Hodges said. Regarding the three oldest and high mileage vehicles, Hodges said, “They’re about the highest mileage we like to put out there.”
Hodges’ plan is to take three of the highest mile vehicles out of daily use and move those into use by reserve deputies. From there, three of the very oldest or in once case, less needed vehicles, would then potentially be sold at the county auction or could be allocated to other uses by the county.
The “less needed” vehicle is a 1990 Dodge van formerly used by the Whitley County Drug Task force. Once outfitted with the latest technology, the vehicle is now outdated and Hodges feels the cost of updated it would not be a good use of county funds. “There is no reason right now to have a vehicle like that,” Hodges said.
Hodges hopes to use the $80,000 to purchase a Crown Victoria, an additional Ford Explorer for crime scene investigation and possibly a Dodge. Each of the vehicles, he said, would be fully-equipped.
Commissioners Tom Rethlake and Don Amber both asked whether local car dealerships were involved in the bid process to sell vehicles to the Sheriff’s Department.
“I appreciate trying to stay at home as much as you can on this,” said Amber. “I think it should be right that everyone in our area, especially in our county, should get to bid.”
The commissioners agreed to recommend the purchase to the Whitley County Council.
In other matters:
Dan Weigold brought forth a request to find $7,500 worth of funds to pay for the services of an attorney to address drainage concerns. According to Weigold, $15,000 worth of fees were exhausted in 2008, depleting budgeted funds to cover such expenses.
“We have some drainage issues coming up where an attorney is extremely necessary, Weigold said.
The request will be forwarded to Whitley County Council.
County coordinator Amy Crickmore recommended that Lifeworks counseling service be added as another option for county employees seeking counseling services. Crickmore asked that they continue to keep Family Care Center on the list of providers as well.
“At least this gives employees a couple of options,” said commissioner Mike Schrader.
Commissioners then signed a one-year contract with Lifeworks counseling service.
Commissioners briefly discussed the purchase of backup batteries for county-owned computers. The estimated cost was $69 per battery and $80 for installation.
The commissioners were unsure how to proceed and were unsure how many computers would be in need of backup batteries.
“Does every computer need one if we have backup on the server somewhere,” Amber asked, requesting that the number of batteries be determined before considering the matter further.
Commissioners also approved use of the Whitley County Courthouse square for the annual Junior Achievement Car Show on August 1.
Souder urges new VA Secretary to keep Fort Wayne VA Hospital open
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
In hopes of making steps to save the VA Hospital in Fort Wayne, today Congressman Mark Souder sent a letter to new Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki.
Souder urged Shinseki to consider keeping the VA Hospital open for the sake of local veterans and their families.
“To send veterans -- and their families -- to an inpatient facility in Indianapolis, over a hundred miles from their homes, is totally unacceptable,” Souder wrote. “I will continue to fight on behalf of the veterans in northern Indiana to protect care in Fort Wayne.”
The VA Hospital, located near the Parkview Hospital campus in near-downtown Fort Wayne, has been a topic of discussion in for some time – beginning with former Veterans Affairs Secretary Anthony Principi’s recommendation to close the inpatient care portion of the facility in 2004.
Souder’s note to Shinseki also requested updated information derived from a report expected from consulting firm Booz Allen Hamilton that was to have been completed in 2007 which might shed further light on whether the hospital will remain open.
Souder also asked for a personal meeting with Shinseki to discuss the matter further.
Souder urges new VA Secretary to keep Fort Wayne VA Hospital open
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
In hopes of making steps to save the VA Hospital in Fort Wayne, today Congressman Mark Souder sent a letter to new Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki.
Souder urged Shinseki to consider keeping the VA Hospital open for the sake of local veterans and their families.
“To send veterans -- and their families -- to an inpatient facility in Indianapolis, over a hundred miles from their homes, is totally unacceptable,” Souder wrote. “I will continue to fight on behalf of the veterans in northern Indiana to protect care in Fort Wayne.”
The VA Hospital, located near the Parkview Hospital campus in near-downtown Fort Wayne, has been a topic of discussion in for some time – beginning with former Veterans Affairs Secretary Anthony Principi’s recommendation to close the inpatient care portion of the facility in 2004.
Souder’s note to Shinseki also requested updated information derived from a report expected from consulting firm Booz Allen Hamilton that was to have been completed in 2007 which might shed further light on whether the hospital will remain open.
Souder also asked for a personal meeting with Shinseki to discuss the matter further.
More news? Can it be?
Indeed! We'll be posting more news later today, so be sure to check back. We're working hard to bring you the best Whitley County has to offer. As always, if you have ideas, comments, suggestions or news to share, send an email to: jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com or click the comments button on the right at the bottom of the navigation toolbar. Also, we hope you're all aware of the FREE classifieds on Talk of the Town, our calendar where you can post your own events, as well as the regularly updated memorial section with full-length obituaries and color photographs.
More news? Can it be?
Indeed! We'll be posting more news later today, so be sure to check back. We're working hard to bring you the best Whitley County has to offer. As always, if you have ideas, comments, suggestions or news to share, send an email to: jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com or click the comments button on the right at the bottom of the navigation toolbar. Also, we hope you're all aware of the FREE classifieds on Talk of the Town, our calendar where you can post your own events, as well as the regularly updated memorial section with full-length obituaries and color photographs.
Homemade snow?
(Photo provided) Larwill residents Mark and Joyce Linder and their grandson, Tyler, found a creative way to enjoy the really cold, negative degree weather recently -- with a science experiment. The Linders threw boiling water into the air and watched as it turned into a puff of snow! "He had so much fun we had to do the experiment twice," said Joyce Linder.
Homemade snow?
(Photo provided) Larwill residents Mark and Joyce Linder and their grandson, Tyler, found a creative way to enjoy the really cold, negative degree weather recently -- with a science experiment. The Linders threw boiling water into the air and watched as it turned into a puff of snow! "He had so much fun we had to do the experiment twice," said Joyce Linder.
Community has supported Whitley County Cares Fund with $17,000 in gifts
(Photo provided) John Lefever of STAR Insurance, above at right, presents a $1,000 check to Laurie Steill of the Whitley County Community Foundation. The generous donation made on behalf of Cincinnati Insurance and STAR Insurance was directed to the Whitley County Cares Fund, where it was matched dollar for dollar by the Community Foundation. The Whitley County Cares Fund provides assistance to local families in need.
Article provided
Understanding that we are enduring a very harsh winter and an unstable economy, the board and staff of the Whitley County Community Foundation are working to provide assistance to local families who are most in need such as those who have lost jobs or had significant decreases in income.Last month, the organization announced that it would match gifts made to the Whitley County Cares Fund, dollar for dollar up to $50,000. Since that time, members of our community have generously given $17,000 toward helping local residents who are struggling, and those gifts have been matched by the Foundation.
This week, the first distributions were made to local non-profit organizations.
While the Community Foundation is unable to assist individuals directly, it can make funding available to local non-profits who exist to help people in distress. The first gift made from the Whitley County Cares Fund was a grant to Helpline of Whitley County.
A volunteer program, Helpline collects new or gently used household items and furnishings, and then donates the items to families in need. There are currently 55 families on their waiting list.
“Helpline has seen a significant increase in requests for help over the past few weeks. The organization is very responsible when responding to requests, and this is exactly the type of cause we wanted to assist when the match was established for Whitley County Cares,” said September McConnell, director of the community foundation.
Local food pantries in Whitley County will also benefit from the Whitley County Cares Fund, with an additional $9,000 earmarked for the various food banks in our community. John Slavich, program director for the Foundation contends that when it comes to responsible spending “those folks at the food banks know how to stretch a dollar!”
In addition, the Foundation will continue to work with Kriders Meats. The local business processed donated deer at cost, with the meat then distributed to the food pantries. The Richland Township Volunteer Fire Department recently donated $250, specifically earmarked to help offset the cost of processing the meat.
The Edwin and Flossie Heupel Good Samaritan Fund was created to assist Whitley County residents who are enduring a medical crisis and are in need financial assistance. Those eligible must be recommended to the Foundation by a church or social service organization. A volunteer committee is responsible for reviewing the request and recommending funding.
Over the past three months, there has been an increase in requests for assistance. “We have helped people with everything from replacing their eyeglasses to helping with doctor bills to providing gas money to Riley Hospital,” explained Slavich. Because of the increased demand, $5,000 from the Whitley County Cares Fund will be used to supplement these distributions.
An additional $13,000 from Whitley County Cares is being made available to organizations throughout the county that see need on a daily basis, but have had limited means of offering assistance.
“This is not an endowed fund,” explained McConnell. “From the onset, it has been our intent to get the money out and put it to work to help address local needs. The response to our challenge has been heartwarming. People genuinely want to help and make a difference.”
“We hope that others will be inclined to give,” McConnell continued. “The Foundation will continue to match the next $33,000 in contributions dollar for dollar. This means that a gift of $10 instantly becomes $20; $250 becomes $500.”
Gifts to the Whitley County Cares Fund are tax deductible and may be sent to the Community Foundation at 400 N. Whitley Street, Columbia City, IN 46725; simply note Whitley County Cares on the memo line.
The Foundation is unable to grant money to individuals. All requests for assistance should be made to local non profit organizations, who can then contact the Foundation. Organizations that can be assisted by the Whitley County Cares Fund include:
· Beds & Britches, Etc. (BABE) 244-2820 – Diapers, infant products offered through a coupon incentive program
· Big Lake Church of God Food Pantry
· Churubusco United Methodist Church Food Pantry
· Community Action of Northeast Indiana (CANI) Supplemental energy bill assistance for low income homes – 248-4887
· Etna United Methodist Church Food Pantry
· First Church of God, non-food pantry provides toiletries, cleaning supplies and diapers with voucher from welfare, or WIC
· Grace Lutheran Food Pantry
· Helpline of Whitley County – Household furnishings such as furniture, cookware, etc.
· Interfaith Mission – Transitional homeless shelter, 244-9603
· Jefferson Chapel United Methodist Church
· South Whitley Area Emergency Food Bank
· St. John Bosco Catholic Church Food Pantry
· St. Vincent DePaul Food Pantry at St. Paul of the Cross Church
· Victory Christian Fellowship – Shared Blessings Food Pantry
· Whitley Co. Council on Aging, Non-perishable food pantry; public transportation
· Whitley Co. Ministerial Association – Overnight lodging for stranded travelers or recent jail release and referrals by city police dispatcher
Community has supported Whitley County Cares Fund with $17,000 in gifts
(Photo provided) John Lefever of STAR Insurance, above at right, presents a $1,000 check to Laurie Steill of the Whitley County Community Foundation. The generous donation made on behalf of Cincinnati Insurance and STAR Insurance was directed to the Whitley County Cares Fund, where it was matched dollar for dollar by the Community Foundation. The Whitley County Cares Fund provides assistance to local families in need.
Article provided
Understanding that we are enduring a very harsh winter and an unstable economy, the board and staff of the Whitley County Community Foundation are working to provide assistance to local families who are most in need such as those who have lost jobs or had significant decreases in income.Last month, the organization announced that it would match gifts made to the Whitley County Cares Fund, dollar for dollar up to $50,000. Since that time, members of our community have generously given $17,000 toward helping local residents who are struggling, and those gifts have been matched by the Foundation.
This week, the first distributions were made to local non-profit organizations.
While the Community Foundation is unable to assist individuals directly, it can make funding available to local non-profits who exist to help people in distress. The first gift made from the Whitley County Cares Fund was a grant to Helpline of Whitley County.
A volunteer program, Helpline collects new or gently used household items and furnishings, and then donates the items to families in need. There are currently 55 families on their waiting list.
“Helpline has seen a significant increase in requests for help over the past few weeks. The organization is very responsible when responding to requests, and this is exactly the type of cause we wanted to assist when the match was established for Whitley County Cares,” said September McConnell, director of the community foundation.
Local food pantries in Whitley County will also benefit from the Whitley County Cares Fund, with an additional $9,000 earmarked for the various food banks in our community. John Slavich, program director for the Foundation contends that when it comes to responsible spending “those folks at the food banks know how to stretch a dollar!”
In addition, the Foundation will continue to work with Kriders Meats. The local business processed donated deer at cost, with the meat then distributed to the food pantries. The Richland Township Volunteer Fire Department recently donated $250, specifically earmarked to help offset the cost of processing the meat.
The Edwin and Flossie Heupel Good Samaritan Fund was created to assist Whitley County residents who are enduring a medical crisis and are in need financial assistance. Those eligible must be recommended to the Foundation by a church or social service organization. A volunteer committee is responsible for reviewing the request and recommending funding.
Over the past three months, there has been an increase in requests for assistance. “We have helped people with everything from replacing their eyeglasses to helping with doctor bills to providing gas money to Riley Hospital,” explained Slavich. Because of the increased demand, $5,000 from the Whitley County Cares Fund will be used to supplement these distributions.
An additional $13,000 from Whitley County Cares is being made available to organizations throughout the county that see need on a daily basis, but have had limited means of offering assistance.
“This is not an endowed fund,” explained McConnell. “From the onset, it has been our intent to get the money out and put it to work to help address local needs. The response to our challenge has been heartwarming. People genuinely want to help and make a difference.”
“We hope that others will be inclined to give,” McConnell continued. “The Foundation will continue to match the next $33,000 in contributions dollar for dollar. This means that a gift of $10 instantly becomes $20; $250 becomes $500.”
Gifts to the Whitley County Cares Fund are tax deductible and may be sent to the Community Foundation at 400 N. Whitley Street, Columbia City, IN 46725; simply note Whitley County Cares on the memo line.
The Foundation is unable to grant money to individuals. All requests for assistance should be made to local non profit organizations, who can then contact the Foundation. Organizations that can be assisted by the Whitley County Cares Fund include:
· Beds & Britches, Etc. (BABE) 244-2820 – Diapers, infant products offered through a coupon incentive program
· Big Lake Church of God Food Pantry
· Churubusco United Methodist Church Food Pantry
· Community Action of Northeast Indiana (CANI) Supplemental energy bill assistance for low income homes – 248-4887
· Etna United Methodist Church Food Pantry
· First Church of God, non-food pantry provides toiletries, cleaning supplies and diapers with voucher from welfare, or WIC
· Grace Lutheran Food Pantry
· Helpline of Whitley County – Household furnishings such as furniture, cookware, etc.
· Interfaith Mission – Transitional homeless shelter, 244-9603
· Jefferson Chapel United Methodist Church
· South Whitley Area Emergency Food Bank
· St. John Bosco Catholic Church Food Pantry
· St. Vincent DePaul Food Pantry at St. Paul of the Cross Church
· Victory Christian Fellowship – Shared Blessings Food Pantry
· Whitley Co. Council on Aging, Non-perishable food pantry; public transportation
· Whitley Co. Ministerial Association – Overnight lodging for stranded travelers or recent jail release and referrals by city police dispatcher
January 21, 2009
Watching history at home in Whitley County
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) In small groups, in the lobby of the hospital, in elementary school classrooms or alone in their homes, Whitley County residents watched media coverage of the historic inauguration of Barack Obama on Tuesday. Above, Columbia City Rotarians Al Anderson, left, and Candice Yeakle, right, watched the swearing in ceremony along with fellow club members on a large screen television in the lower level of Parkview Whitley Hospital Tuesday shortly after noon.
Watching history at home in Whitley County
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) In small groups, in the lobby of the hospital, in elementary school classrooms or alone in their homes, Whitley County residents watched media coverage of the historic inauguration of Barack Obama on Tuesday. Above, Columbia City Rotarians Al Anderson, left, and Candice Yeakle, right, watched the swearing in ceremony along with fellow club members on a large screen television in the lower level of Parkview Whitley Hospital Tuesday shortly after noon.
County commissioners research giving Whitley County Government website a facelift
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
In hopes of sprucing up the county’s online image, the Whitley County Commissioners heard a presentation from a Fort Wayne design firm Tuesday afternoon.
Mindy Hambrick, president of Design Factore, located on Barr Street in Fort Wayne, discussed options for the county to update their current internet-based offerings and handed out proposal packets to each of the Whitley County commissioners.
“We’ve tried to distill it down to a phase one because a website can be a really big project,” Hambrick said. “We’ve isolated some core responsibilities of the website.”
Hambrick explained the steps to recreating the county government website. The initial startup for the project would cost $3900.
“We’d like the 25 cent proposal,” said commissioner Tom Rethlake smiling.
Although the firm has not created a county government website before, Hambrick cited other recent projects including the company’s role as a subcontractor in working with the City of Kendallville’s website and said she had researched other local government websites.
Hambrick recommended including easy to navigate service directories, email contact for constituents to reach local leaders, a printable citizen’s guide to services packet, quick links, online polls and surveys, news and events, public information and a frequently asked questions section.
With such information available online, Hambrick said it provides a real service to residents. “It can reduce administrative overhead for people calling to ask the same questions,” she said.
Currently, the county’s website is hosted through Whitleynet. The Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, GIS and Community Corrections already have their own independent websites and a decision would have to be made regarding including those sites in a county-wide government website. “This way, it’s a legitimate portal into those websites,” Hambrick said.
Hambrick said the proposed website would be set up on a content management framework and that a person or persons within local government would need to be responsible for updating the site. Hambrick said her company could update the site if needed for $80 an hour, but recommended the county purchase prepaid maintenance blocks for site updating and maintenance needs and receive a 30% discount.
Hambrick estimated that the update process would typically take 24-48 hours.
Rethlake said that after talking with local residents, he’d like the website to be able to offer additional services through the website – such as paying speeding tickets online.
Hambrick said services such as online payment of parking tickets or property taxes would be included in a phase two of the website construction
“Those are phase two features,” Hambrick said and would not be covered in the initial $3900 startup. Hambrick said until they were able to determine a way of integrating a new website with old ones, she would not be fully aware of needs and cost concerns.
“It can get very expensive,” she said.
The commissioners agreed to take the matter under advisement.
County commissioners research giving Whitley County Government website a facelift
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
In hopes of sprucing up the county’s online image, the Whitley County Commissioners heard a presentation from a Fort Wayne design firm Tuesday afternoon.
Mindy Hambrick, president of Design Factore, located on Barr Street in Fort Wayne, discussed options for the county to update their current internet-based offerings and handed out proposal packets to each of the Whitley County commissioners.
“We’ve tried to distill it down to a phase one because a website can be a really big project,” Hambrick said. “We’ve isolated some core responsibilities of the website.”
Hambrick explained the steps to recreating the county government website. The initial startup for the project would cost $3900.
“We’d like the 25 cent proposal,” said commissioner Tom Rethlake smiling.
Although the firm has not created a county government website before, Hambrick cited other recent projects including the company’s role as a subcontractor in working with the City of Kendallville’s website and said she had researched other local government websites.
Hambrick recommended including easy to navigate service directories, email contact for constituents to reach local leaders, a printable citizen’s guide to services packet, quick links, online polls and surveys, news and events, public information and a frequently asked questions section.
With such information available online, Hambrick said it provides a real service to residents. “It can reduce administrative overhead for people calling to ask the same questions,” she said.
Currently, the county’s website is hosted through Whitleynet. The Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, GIS and Community Corrections already have their own independent websites and a decision would have to be made regarding including those sites in a county-wide government website. “This way, it’s a legitimate portal into those websites,” Hambrick said.
Hambrick said the proposed website would be set up on a content management framework and that a person or persons within local government would need to be responsible for updating the site. Hambrick said her company could update the site if needed for $80 an hour, but recommended the county purchase prepaid maintenance blocks for site updating and maintenance needs and receive a 30% discount.
Hambrick estimated that the update process would typically take 24-48 hours.
Rethlake said that after talking with local residents, he’d like the website to be able to offer additional services through the website – such as paying speeding tickets online.
Hambrick said services such as online payment of parking tickets or property taxes would be included in a phase two of the website construction
“Those are phase two features,” Hambrick said and would not be covered in the initial $3900 startup. Hambrick said until they were able to determine a way of integrating a new website with old ones, she would not be fully aware of needs and cost concerns.
“It can get very expensive,” she said.
The commissioners agreed to take the matter under advisement.
Richland Township resident voices concerns about library board appointments to commissioners
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
A Richland Township resident says she’s concerned with the selection process of library board members for the South Whitley-Cleveland Township Public Library and brought those concerns to the Whitley County commissioners on Tuesday.
“I’ve been on this for a year and a half,” said Betty Wilkinson.
Wilkinson voiced her concerns ranging from the library’s budget to how board members are selected to the amount of tax dollars going into the library.
“Outside of apparently we appoint someone on the board, I don’t think it’s brushing you off to say we don’t have anything to do with it,” said commissioner Don Amber.
“How much Richland and Cleveland and South Whitley put in the library, we don’t control that,” said Amber, adding that the council's role in appointing board members for the library typically involves a quick review of the names presented and the commissioners' approval.
“They bring those names to us and unless we have a reason not to appoint them, we usually do,” said commissioner Mike Schrader, “but if you’ve got somebody you feel would be good for that board, please let us know.” Schrader and commissioner Tom Rethlake urged Wilkinson to bring names of prospective board members for the South Whitley Cleveland Township Public Library.
“Thanks for your interest in the library, I wish more people were that interested,” said Rethlake.
Richland Township resident voices concerns about library board appointments to commissioners
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
A Richland Township resident says she’s concerned with the selection process of library board members for the South Whitley-Cleveland Township Public Library and brought those concerns to the Whitley County commissioners on Tuesday.
“I’ve been on this for a year and a half,” said Betty Wilkinson.
Wilkinson voiced her concerns ranging from the library’s budget to how board members are selected to the amount of tax dollars going into the library.
“Outside of apparently we appoint someone on the board, I don’t think it’s brushing you off to say we don’t have anything to do with it,” said commissioner Don Amber.
“How much Richland and Cleveland and South Whitley put in the library, we don’t control that,” said Amber, adding that the council's role in appointing board members for the library typically involves a quick review of the names presented and the commissioners' approval.
“They bring those names to us and unless we have a reason not to appoint them, we usually do,” said commissioner Mike Schrader, “but if you’ve got somebody you feel would be good for that board, please let us know.” Schrader and commissioner Tom Rethlake urged Wilkinson to bring names of prospective board members for the South Whitley Cleveland Township Public Library.
“Thanks for your interest in the library, I wish more people were that interested,” said Rethlake.
Wolf Lake VFW hosting dinner February 14
The Wolf Lake VFW will host a pork chop dinner on February 14 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. The band Nashville Rebels will play from 7-10 p.m.
Wolf Lake VFW hosting dinner February 14
The Wolf Lake VFW will host a pork chop dinner on February 14 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. The band Nashville Rebels will play from 7-10 p.m.
Governor Mitch Daniels to dine in town on Friday
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Governor Mitch Daniels will enjoy lunch in Whitley County on Friday.
At noon, Daniels will make a stop at Big G’s restaurant in Columbia City where he will talk with local residents informally over lunch. A speech is not planned, said Whitley County Republican Party chairman Jim Banks, but Daniels would like to visit with local residents.
Big G’s is located on South Main Street near the intersection of South Main and Chicago Streets, just north of the railroad tracks.
Governor Mitch Daniels to dine in town on Friday
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Governor Mitch Daniels will enjoy lunch in Whitley County on Friday.
At noon, Daniels will make a stop at Big G’s restaurant in Columbia City where he will talk with local residents informally over lunch. A speech is not planned, said Whitley County Republican Party chairman Jim Banks, but Daniels would like to visit with local residents.
Big G’s is located on South Main Street near the intersection of South Main and Chicago Streets, just north of the railroad tracks.
January 20, 2009
A sparkling morning in Whitley County
A sparkling morning in Whitley County
Splashpad success story featured on website, regional brochure about accessbility
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Although it is covered under several inches of snow, the bright colors of the Splashpad in Morsches Park seems to radiate fun. The Splashpad, certainly a local fundraising success story, has been featured on the Access to Recreation website and in a comprehensive brochure produced by that organization as an example of creating a recreational opportunity for all residents, regardless of disability, to utilize.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Buried under a layer of snow in Morsches Park, the Splashpad is continuing to bring smiles to local residents’ faces – even in the dreariness of winter!
Columbia City Parks Department director Mark Green is pleased to announce that Whitley County’s Splashpad has made the news on the Access to Recreation website, a site tracking the success stories of recreation projects throughout the Midwest that incorporate elements of design that allow greater accessibility to all members of the community – including the disabled.
Like the Splashpad, the Access to Recreation project was funded by a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.
The Splashpad is also being featured in a comprehensive brochure created by Access to Recreation that covers the story of the local Splashpad from start to finish. The article in the brochure entitled “Case Studies and Lessons Learned: Big Splash in a Small Town” talks about the various people and entities who made the Splashpad possible, including the Whitley County Community Foundation, Leadership Whitley County, the Dekko Foundation and Steel Dynamics.
Click here and scroll to page 14 to read the article.
Splashpad success story featured on website, regional brochure about accessbility
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Although it is covered under several inches of snow, the bright colors of the Splashpad in Morsches Park seems to radiate fun. The Splashpad, certainly a local fundraising success story, has been featured on the Access to Recreation website and in a comprehensive brochure produced by that organization as an example of creating a recreational opportunity for all residents, regardless of disability, to utilize.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Buried under a layer of snow in Morsches Park, the Splashpad is continuing to bring smiles to local residents’ faces – even in the dreariness of winter!
Columbia City Parks Department director Mark Green is pleased to announce that Whitley County’s Splashpad has made the news on the Access to Recreation website, a site tracking the success stories of recreation projects throughout the Midwest that incorporate elements of design that allow greater accessibility to all members of the community – including the disabled.
Like the Splashpad, the Access to Recreation project was funded by a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.
The Splashpad is also being featured in a comprehensive brochure created by Access to Recreation that covers the story of the local Splashpad from start to finish. The article in the brochure entitled “Case Studies and Lessons Learned: Big Splash in a Small Town” talks about the various people and entities who made the Splashpad possible, including the Whitley County Community Foundation, Leadership Whitley County, the Dekko Foundation and Steel Dynamics.
Click here and scroll to page 14 to read the article.
STAR Financial Bank's South Whitley ATM, drive up now open after $365,000 renovation
The ATM and drive-up at STAR Financial Bank’s South Whitley banking center has re-opened. The drive-up was expanded, and the ATM was relocated to the drive-up as part of a $365,000 renovation project at the branch.
The interior of STAR’s office is being completely renovated to provide more office space. Employees at STAR’s South Whitley insurance office will move into the remodeled building when the project is complete. A state-of-the-art computer infrastructure is being installed to improve bank operations.
The entire project is designed to provide one-stop-shopping for both bank and insurance customers as well as to provide an improved working environment for STAR team members.
The building’s basement is also being converted into a meeting space for use by area community groups. When finished, it will be able to hold approximately 40 people.
The bank is open for business during the construction. Renovations are expected to be complete in mid February.
Headquartered in Fort Wayne, STAR Financial Bank holds assets of nearly $1.7 billion. It operates 46 banking centers throughout Indiana, including branches in Churubusco, Columbia City and South Whitley. The bank’s parent company, STAR Financial Group, provides professional services in insurance, trust and wealth management.
A subsidiary of STAR Financial Group, STAR Insurance Agency has been in business since 1916 and is the largest independent insurance agency in the region. With offices in 14 communities throughout Indiana, STAR Insurance writes more than $35,000,000 in annual premiums through 25 insurance companies. The company has built a solid customer-focused reputation with more than 15,000 clients. STAR Insurance agents are licensed to write in more than 20 states and experienced and knowledgeable in all lines of insurance. As a full service provider, STAR Insurance offers life, health, homeowners, auto, farm & crop, commercial and annuity insurance products.
For more information about all of STAR’s services, visit the company’s web site at www.starfinancial.com.
STAR Financial Bank's South Whitley ATM, drive up now open after $365,000 renovation
The ATM and drive-up at STAR Financial Bank’s South Whitley banking center has re-opened. The drive-up was expanded, and the ATM was relocated to the drive-up as part of a $365,000 renovation project at the branch.
The interior of STAR’s office is being completely renovated to provide more office space. Employees at STAR’s South Whitley insurance office will move into the remodeled building when the project is complete. A state-of-the-art computer infrastructure is being installed to improve bank operations.
The entire project is designed to provide one-stop-shopping for both bank and insurance customers as well as to provide an improved working environment for STAR team members.
The building’s basement is also being converted into a meeting space for use by area community groups. When finished, it will be able to hold approximately 40 people.
The bank is open for business during the construction. Renovations are expected to be complete in mid February.
Headquartered in Fort Wayne, STAR Financial Bank holds assets of nearly $1.7 billion. It operates 46 banking centers throughout Indiana, including branches in Churubusco, Columbia City and South Whitley. The bank’s parent company, STAR Financial Group, provides professional services in insurance, trust and wealth management.
A subsidiary of STAR Financial Group, STAR Insurance Agency has been in business since 1916 and is the largest independent insurance agency in the region. With offices in 14 communities throughout Indiana, STAR Insurance writes more than $35,000,000 in annual premiums through 25 insurance companies. The company has built a solid customer-focused reputation with more than 15,000 clients. STAR Insurance agents are licensed to write in more than 20 states and experienced and knowledgeable in all lines of insurance. As a full service provider, STAR Insurance offers life, health, homeowners, auto, farm & crop, commercial and annuity insurance products.
For more information about all of STAR’s services, visit the company’s web site at www.starfinancial.com.
January 19, 2009
Snowed in
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) An old tractor in Northern Thorncreek Township is snowed in and waiting for better days ahead...this spring, perhaps?
Have you taken some exceptional photographs of the recent frosty mornings or scenic snowfall? Maybe icicles? If you'd like to share them with our readers, send them to: jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com
Snowed in
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) An old tractor in Northern Thorncreek Township is snowed in and waiting for better days ahead...this spring, perhaps?
Have you taken some exceptional photographs of the recent frosty mornings or scenic snowfall? Maybe icicles? If you'd like to share them with our readers, send them to: jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com
It is still chilly, but Farmers Market gearing up for '09 season with planning meeting
(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The Columbia City Farmers Market, shown above during their last season in the summer of 2008, is preparing for their first planning meeting of the season. Anyone with an interest in participating in this year’s market is asked to attend a meeting on February 3, 2008.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The ground is still clearly snow-covered, but local growers will soon meet for the first Columbia City Farmers Market meeting of the year.
According to market master Tiffany Herron, the first meeting of the Columbia City Farmers Market is slated for Tuesday, February 3, 2009, at 6:30 p.m. in the Smith & Sons funeral home Coach Room.
“Vendors in Whitley County or surrounding counties who are interested in selling their homegrown or homemade items can attend the meeting or contact me,” Herron said.
Last season, approximately 23 vendors participated on a regular basis with others joining in for the Harvest Moon Festival or on an occasional basis.
Herron said she’d like to see the market continue to grow and expand around the Whitley County courthouse.
The Farmers Market is open each Saturday morning from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. from second Saturday in May through the second Saturday in October.
Herron feels that farmers markets in general are wonderful because they provide an avenue for people to sell their produce locally.
“It’s a win-win situation for the consumer and the vendors,” she said.
“With the way our economy is going, it is crucial that we support our community and each other,” Herron added.
For more information on the Columbia City Farmers Market, contact Tiffany Herron at 260-213-1953.
It is still chilly, but Farmers Market gearing up for '09 season with planning meeting
(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The Columbia City Farmers Market, shown above during their last season in the summer of 2008, is preparing for their first planning meeting of the season. Anyone with an interest in participating in this year’s market is asked to attend a meeting on February 3, 2008.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The ground is still clearly snow-covered, but local growers will soon meet for the first Columbia City Farmers Market meeting of the year.
According to market master Tiffany Herron, the first meeting of the Columbia City Farmers Market is slated for Tuesday, February 3, 2009, at 6:30 p.m. in the Smith & Sons funeral home Coach Room.
“Vendors in Whitley County or surrounding counties who are interested in selling their homegrown or homemade items can attend the meeting or contact me,” Herron said.
Last season, approximately 23 vendors participated on a regular basis with others joining in for the Harvest Moon Festival or on an occasional basis.
Herron said she’d like to see the market continue to grow and expand around the Whitley County courthouse.
The Farmers Market is open each Saturday morning from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. from second Saturday in May through the second Saturday in October.
Herron feels that farmers markets in general are wonderful because they provide an avenue for people to sell their produce locally.
“It’s a win-win situation for the consumer and the vendors,” she said.
“With the way our economy is going, it is crucial that we support our community and each other,” Herron added.
For more information on the Columbia City Farmers Market, contact Tiffany Herron at 260-213-1953.
Whitley County Family YMCA joins effort to provide free six month memberships to soldiers and their families
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The Whitley County Family YMCA is joining together with YMCAs across the country and the US Department of Defense to provide free six month memberships to active duty military personnel and their families.
The goal of the project is to ensure that military families have the opportunity to access the many outstanding programs, including fitness and youth development activities, available though the YMCA organization.
According to Amy Shaw, membership director for the Whitley County Family YMCA, about five or six local families have already come in to sign up for the program.
To enroll in the program, Shaw said families or soldiers should be able to meet the necessary requirements and provide paperwork, such as a deployment letter.
For eligibility requirements or additional information about the program, click here or visit www.militaryonesource.com
Whitley County Family YMCA joins effort to provide free six month memberships to soldiers and their families
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The Whitley County Family YMCA is joining together with YMCAs across the country and the US Department of Defense to provide free six month memberships to active duty military personnel and their families.
The goal of the project is to ensure that military families have the opportunity to access the many outstanding programs, including fitness and youth development activities, available though the YMCA organization.
According to Amy Shaw, membership director for the Whitley County Family YMCA, about five or six local families have already come in to sign up for the program.
To enroll in the program, Shaw said families or soldiers should be able to meet the necessary requirements and provide paperwork, such as a deployment letter.
For eligibility requirements or additional information about the program, click here or visit www.militaryonesource.com
January 18, 2009
BABE works toward comprehensive strategic plan
BABE works toward comprehensive strategic plan
CC Deli's Soups of the Week
The CC Deli in downtown Columbia City has announced their soups of the week for the week of January 19:
Monday -- Tomato Tortellini and Cheeseburger
Tuesday -- Chicken Noodle and Chicken & Rice
Wednesday – Talk of the Town White Chili and Chicken Dumpling
Thursday -- Broccoli & Cheese and Cheesy Potato
Friday -- Veggie Beef and Chili
CC Deli's Soups of the Week
The CC Deli in downtown Columbia City has announced their soups of the week for the week of January 19:
Monday -- Tomato Tortellini and Cheeseburger
Tuesday -- Chicken Noodle and Chicken & Rice
Wednesday – Talk of the Town White Chili and Chicken Dumpling
Thursday -- Broccoli & Cheese and Cheesy Potato
Friday -- Veggie Beef and Chili
January 17, 2009
'Busco residents asked to form teams for Whitley County Relay for Life
(Photo provided) Local cancer survivors, above, prepare to circle the track during the Survivor's Lap at the annual Whitley County Relay for Life in 2008. Plans for this year's events are underway and organizers are hoping Churubusco residents will consider forming teams this year.
By Viv Sade
Relay for Life officials are looking for a Churubusco resident to help coordinate local efforts for this year’s event June 6 and June 7.
Last year’s RFL raised over $60,000 for the American Cancer Society. A total of 31 teams participated and this year’s RFL chairperson, Jade Pfeiffer, wants to increase those numbers to 40 teams who raise $65,000 during this year’s event.
“We would like to throw down the gauntlet to Churubusco to see if they can increase the number of teams from your community,” Pfeiffer said. “There was just one team from Churubusco last year, which we appreciated very much, but we’d like to see more.”
To read more of this story, visit our Whitley News Network partner site BuscoVoice.com, by clicking here.
'Busco residents asked to form teams for Whitley County Relay for Life
(Photo provided) Local cancer survivors, above, prepare to circle the track during the Survivor's Lap at the annual Whitley County Relay for Life in 2008. Plans for this year's events are underway and organizers are hoping Churubusco residents will consider forming teams this year.
By Viv Sade
Relay for Life officials are looking for a Churubusco resident to help coordinate local efforts for this year’s event June 6 and June 7.
Last year’s RFL raised over $60,000 for the American Cancer Society. A total of 31 teams participated and this year’s RFL chairperson, Jade Pfeiffer, wants to increase those numbers to 40 teams who raise $65,000 during this year’s event.
“We would like to throw down the gauntlet to Churubusco to see if they can increase the number of teams from your community,” Pfeiffer said. “There was just one team from Churubusco last year, which we appreciated very much, but we’d like to see more.”
To read more of this story, visit our Whitley News Network partner site BuscoVoice.com, by clicking here.
AMVETS Post 2919 thanking storm workers with beef and noodle dinner this evening
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The severe ice storm in mid-December brought out the best in a lot of people – particularly those who braved the elements to aid those without power.
The AMVETS Post 2919 in South Whitley is hosting a beef and noodle dinner this evening from 4-6 p.m. as a way to provide the community with an opportunity to personal meet and thank the workers to restored power to the town following the ice storm.
The meal is being provided free of charge by the AMVETS members for any storm worker and their families. The community is asked to provide a freewill donation.
Dinner will be served in the AMVETS smoke-free, street level hall at 234 South State Street in South Whitley.
AMVETS Post 2919 thanking storm workers with beef and noodle dinner this evening
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The severe ice storm in mid-December brought out the best in a lot of people – particularly those who braved the elements to aid those without power.
The AMVETS Post 2919 in South Whitley is hosting a beef and noodle dinner this evening from 4-6 p.m. as a way to provide the community with an opportunity to personal meet and thank the workers to restored power to the town following the ice storm.
The meal is being provided free of charge by the AMVETS members for any storm worker and their families. The community is asked to provide a freewill donation.
Dinner will be served in the AMVETS smoke-free, street level hall at 234 South State Street in South Whitley.
State Representatives Bell, Leonard invite Whitley County youths to apply for page program
Article Provided
State Representatives Dan Leonard (R-Huntington) and Matt Bell (R-Avilla), each representing Whitley County, encourage students to apply for the Statehouse Page Program.
The Indiana House of Representatives’ page program allows students from across the state to experience the lawmaking process firsthand. Through the program, Hoosier students get to participate in Statehouse activity as a legislative page for a day.
“I think the page program is a great chance for Indiana’s students to see the daily occurrences in the Statehouse,” said Leonard. “The education that participants gain from being a page for a day reinforces knowledge already gained in the classroom with a unique firsthand experience.”
“Giving students the opportunity to learn firsthand what the legislative process entails is great,” said Bell. “Preparing the youth today to lead tomorrow is important, and the page program is a unique way of learning how Indiana’s government works.”
Pages receive a tour of the Statehouse, including the governor’s office, the chambers of the Indiana House, Senate and Supreme Court. Pages are given an opportunity to witness any floor sessions and committee hearings that might be taking place during their visit.
Finally, pages will spend time in the House chambers with Leonard or Bell, assisting them throughout the day.
Pages must be at least 13 years-old and will receive an excused absence from school for the day. Each page is responsible for transportation to and from the Statehouse. Availability is limited, so students should send in requests quickly. The House page office will try to meet requests for specific dates.
Those interested in serving as a page for State Representative Dan Leonard should send their name, age, address, phone number and school to state Rep. Dan Leonard, 200 W. Washington St., Statehouse Room 401-7, Indianapolis, IN 46204, or e-mail the information to H50@IN.Gov.
Those interested in serving as a page for State Representative Matt Bell should send their name, age, address, phone number and school to state Rep. Matt Bell, 200 W. Washington St., Statehouse Room 401-4, Indianapolis, IN 46204, or e-mail their request to h83@in.gov.
State Representatives Bell, Leonard invite Whitley County youths to apply for page program
Article Provided
State Representatives Dan Leonard (R-Huntington) and Matt Bell (R-Avilla), each representing Whitley County, encourage students to apply for the Statehouse Page Program.
The Indiana House of Representatives’ page program allows students from across the state to experience the lawmaking process firsthand. Through the program, Hoosier students get to participate in Statehouse activity as a legislative page for a day.
“I think the page program is a great chance for Indiana’s students to see the daily occurrences in the Statehouse,” said Leonard. “The education that participants gain from being a page for a day reinforces knowledge already gained in the classroom with a unique firsthand experience.”
“Giving students the opportunity to learn firsthand what the legislative process entails is great,” said Bell. “Preparing the youth today to lead tomorrow is important, and the page program is a unique way of learning how Indiana’s government works.”
Pages receive a tour of the Statehouse, including the governor’s office, the chambers of the Indiana House, Senate and Supreme Court. Pages are given an opportunity to witness any floor sessions and committee hearings that might be taking place during their visit.
Finally, pages will spend time in the House chambers with Leonard or Bell, assisting them throughout the day.
Pages must be at least 13 years-old and will receive an excused absence from school for the day. Each page is responsible for transportation to and from the Statehouse. Availability is limited, so students should send in requests quickly. The House page office will try to meet requests for specific dates.
Those interested in serving as a page for State Representative Dan Leonard should send their name, age, address, phone number and school to state Rep. Dan Leonard, 200 W. Washington St., Statehouse Room 401-7, Indianapolis, IN 46204, or e-mail the information to H50@IN.Gov.
Those interested in serving as a page for State Representative Matt Bell should send their name, age, address, phone number and school to state Rep. Matt Bell, 200 W. Washington St., Statehouse Room 401-4, Indianapolis, IN 46204, or e-mail their request to h83@in.gov.
Look Good...Feel Better program offered February 2 at the Whitley County Community Foundation
Article Provided
The Whitley County Giving Circle for Women’s Health is pleased to announce that it will offer the well known, Look Good . . . Feel Better program in our community for women with cancer.
The next session is planned for Monday evening, February 2, 2009, from 6-8 p.m. There is no cost for the program, but advance reservations are required.
Cancer can rob a woman of her energy, appetite and strength, but it doesn’t have to take away her self confidence. Look Good . . . Feel Better is a free program that teaches beauty techniques to women cancer patients in active treatment to help them combat the appearance-related side effects of cancer treatment. Each participant will receive a free make-up kit. Look Good...Feel Better is a national public service program created from the concept that if someone with cancer can be helped to look good, their improved self-esteem will help them to approach their disease and treatment with greater confidence.
Look Good... Feel Better was founded and developed in 1989 by the Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association (CTFA) Foundation, a charitable organization established by CTFA, the trade association that represents the cosmetics industry.
The program is offered through a partnership of the CTFA Foundation, the American Cancer Society (ACS), one of the nation's largest voluntary health organizations, and the National Cosmetology Association (NCA), a national organization of more than 25,000 hairstylists, wig experts, estheticians, makeup artists and nail technicians.
ACS administers the program nationwide, NCA enlists its members to participate as Look Good...Feel Better cosmetologists and the CTFA Foundation provides the makeup, materials, and financial support for the program. Each year, the cosmetics industry donates more than one million pieces of cosmetics, valued between $8 and $10 million.
The sponsoring partners work together to provide:
Patient education, through group or individual sessions, or through self-help materials;
Free program materials including videos and pamphlets; and
Free makeup kits for each patient participating in a group class.
The group program is open to all women cancer patients who are undergoing radiation or chemotherapy treatment. A friend or caregiver may attend as well, but make-up kits will only be made available to women undergoing treatment. Each year, more than 50,000 female patients participate in a Look Good...Feel Better group session. Since 1989, more than 430,000 cancer patients have benefited from the program.
Two local volunteer cosmetologists have volunteered to participate in the Whitley County program. Both have been trained and certified by ACS, NCA and the CTFA Foundation at a regional workshop.
The Whitley County Workshop will be conducted at the Community Foundation, 400 N. Whitley Street, Columbia City. Have questions? Call the Foundation at 244-5224; or register by calling the American Cancer Society at (260) 471-3911.
Look Good...Feel Better program offered February 2 at the Whitley County Community Foundation
Article Provided
The Whitley County Giving Circle for Women’s Health is pleased to announce that it will offer the well known, Look Good . . . Feel Better program in our community for women with cancer.
The next session is planned for Monday evening, February 2, 2009, from 6-8 p.m. There is no cost for the program, but advance reservations are required.
Cancer can rob a woman of her energy, appetite and strength, but it doesn’t have to take away her self confidence. Look Good . . . Feel Better is a free program that teaches beauty techniques to women cancer patients in active treatment to help them combat the appearance-related side effects of cancer treatment. Each participant will receive a free make-up kit. Look Good...Feel Better is a national public service program created from the concept that if someone with cancer can be helped to look good, their improved self-esteem will help them to approach their disease and treatment with greater confidence.
Look Good... Feel Better was founded and developed in 1989 by the Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association (CTFA) Foundation, a charitable organization established by CTFA, the trade association that represents the cosmetics industry.
The program is offered through a partnership of the CTFA Foundation, the American Cancer Society (ACS), one of the nation's largest voluntary health organizations, and the National Cosmetology Association (NCA), a national organization of more than 25,000 hairstylists, wig experts, estheticians, makeup artists and nail technicians.
ACS administers the program nationwide, NCA enlists its members to participate as Look Good...Feel Better cosmetologists and the CTFA Foundation provides the makeup, materials, and financial support for the program. Each year, the cosmetics industry donates more than one million pieces of cosmetics, valued between $8 and $10 million.
The sponsoring partners work together to provide:
Patient education, through group or individual sessions, or through self-help materials;
Free program materials including videos and pamphlets; and
Free makeup kits for each patient participating in a group class.
The group program is open to all women cancer patients who are undergoing radiation or chemotherapy treatment. A friend or caregiver may attend as well, but make-up kits will only be made available to women undergoing treatment. Each year, more than 50,000 female patients participate in a Look Good...Feel Better group session. Since 1989, more than 430,000 cancer patients have benefited from the program.
Two local volunteer cosmetologists have volunteered to participate in the Whitley County program. Both have been trained and certified by ACS, NCA and the CTFA Foundation at a regional workshop.
The Whitley County Workshop will be conducted at the Community Foundation, 400 N. Whitley Street, Columbia City. Have questions? Call the Foundation at 244-5224; or register by calling the American Cancer Society at (260) 471-3911.
January 16, 2009
Jim Bower to speak at STAR Financial Bank's third annual Agricultural Luncheon
Market analyst Jim Bower will return to speak at STAR Financial Bank’s third annual Agricultural Luncheon, Wednesday, January 28, 2009. The luncheon will take place at the Eagles Nest Event Center from 11 am to 2 pm. Bower’s presentation is titled, “2009…The Year of Trust and Review.”
Bower has more than 30 years of experience in the commodities industry. He began his career with Continental Grain and opened Bower Trading, Inc. in 1984 in Lafayette, Indiana. Bower has served as a senior market analyst for more than 20 years on “AgDay Television”
Ken Shultz, marketing supervisor of Great American Insurance Company, will also present at the luncheon. Shultz will address changes to the biotechnology endorsement as it relates to crop insurance.
Representatives from the Indiana State Police will also provide a safety session and discussion about current transportation-related laws.
“STAR is delighted to have Mr. Bower return to speak at our annual Agricultural Luncheon, and we are pleased to have Mr. Shultz join us this year. Both Jim and Ken have extensive experience in the agriculture industry,” said Jim Argerbright, vice president of agricultural lending services at STAR Financial Bank.
STAR Financial Bank’s agricultural lenders and STAR Insurance Agency are sponsoring the event.
For more information about the luncheon, contact Jim Argerbright at 248-6050.
Jim Bower to speak at STAR Financial Bank's third annual Agricultural Luncheon
Market analyst Jim Bower will return to speak at STAR Financial Bank’s third annual Agricultural Luncheon, Wednesday, January 28, 2009. The luncheon will take place at the Eagles Nest Event Center from 11 am to 2 pm. Bower’s presentation is titled, “2009…The Year of Trust and Review.”
Bower has more than 30 years of experience in the commodities industry. He began his career with Continental Grain and opened Bower Trading, Inc. in 1984 in Lafayette, Indiana. Bower has served as a senior market analyst for more than 20 years on “AgDay Television”
Ken Shultz, marketing supervisor of Great American Insurance Company, will also present at the luncheon. Shultz will address changes to the biotechnology endorsement as it relates to crop insurance.
Representatives from the Indiana State Police will also provide a safety session and discussion about current transportation-related laws.
“STAR is delighted to have Mr. Bower return to speak at our annual Agricultural Luncheon, and we are pleased to have Mr. Shultz join us this year. Both Jim and Ken have extensive experience in the agriculture industry,” said Jim Argerbright, vice president of agricultural lending services at STAR Financial Bank.
STAR Financial Bank’s agricultural lenders and STAR Insurance Agency are sponsoring the event.
For more information about the luncheon, contact Jim Argerbright at 248-6050.
Dig out the scrapbooks: Whitley County Historical Society seeking unque photos, mementos from most famous citizens
(Talk of the Town file photo) The photo below of Thomas Riley Marshall and his wife, Lois Kimsey Marshall, was found in a local family's scrapbook and is dated August 17, 1917. It will be among what the historical society hopes are many rare or little seen photographs of some of county's most famous citizens that are loaned to the museum to digitally scan and add to their collection.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Decades from now, when a young resident visits the Whitley County Historical Museum, Dani Tippmann and Angela Maley hope they’ll be able to have access to many original images or memorabilia involving some of the community’s most famous residents. 
“We are preparing to digitally preserve items in our collection that relate to some of the county’s most famous residents,” said the museum’s assistant director Angela Maley.
The museum plans to utilize a special scanner on loan from the Indiana Historical Society to scan in and preserve as many original photographs, papers and mementos as possible relating to the county’s most famous former residents.
“These residents include Thomas R. Marshall and Lois Kimsey Marshall, Ralph Gates, Lloyd C. Douglas and Dean Jagger,” Maley said.
“We are asking the community to be a part of this effort by donating, permanently or temporarily, any original photos, papers, or mementos relating to these notable people,” she added.
While the museum’s collection already features some items or photographs of these notables, many feel the collection could be greatly expanded – particularly by borrowing items from area families’ collections that may be saved in scrapbooks or personal collections. In loaning them to the museum for the project, it will not be necessary to part with the items permanently, but will still enable the museum to document the images for all time.
The museum will be accepting these items now through the end of February, Maley said.
Because the scanner is on loan to the museum, they must hurry to scan and upload as many images and documents as possible during a short window of time. This also ensures that cherished items will be promptly returned to their owners if they are not being permanently donated to the historical society.
“These items will be coupled with our current collections to be digitally preserved and made available to the public through the internet,” said Maley. The Whitley County Historical Society eventually hopes to be able to expand their wealth of online information to include more digital images relating to county history.
“Our goal is to scan these items so that we can eventually get them on the internet and available to everyone,” added Maley.
For more information about donating or loaning items to be included in the project, contact museum director Dani Tippmann or assistant director Angela Maley at 244-6372.
Dig out the scrapbooks: Whitley County Historical Society seeking unque photos, mementos from most famous citizens
(Talk of the Town file photo) The photo below of Thomas Riley Marshall and his wife, Lois Kimsey Marshall, was found in a local family's scrapbook and is dated August 17, 1917. It will be among what the historical society hopes are many rare or little seen photographs of some of county's most famous citizens that are loaned to the museum to digitally scan and add to their collection.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Decades from now, when a young resident visits the Whitley County Historical Museum, Dani Tippmann and Angela Maley hope they’ll be able to have access to many original images or memorabilia involving some of the community’s most famous residents.
“We are preparing to digitally preserve items in our collection that relate to some of the county’s most famous residents,” said the museum’s assistant director Angela Maley.
The museum plans to utilize a special scanner on loan from the Indiana Historical Society to scan in and preserve as many original photographs, papers and mementos as possible relating to the county’s most famous former residents.
“These residents include Thomas R. Marshall and Lois Kimsey Marshall, Ralph Gates, Lloyd C. Douglas and Dean Jagger,” Maley said.
“We are asking the community to be a part of this effort by donating, permanently or temporarily, any original photos, papers, or mementos relating to these notable people,” she added.
While the museum’s collection already features some items or photographs of these notables, many feel the collection could be greatly expanded – particularly by borrowing items from area families’ collections that may be saved in scrapbooks or personal collections. In loaning them to the museum for the project, it will not be necessary to part with the items permanently, but will still enable the museum to document the images for all time.
The museum will be accepting these items now through the end of February, Maley said.
Because the scanner is on loan to the museum, they must hurry to scan and upload as many images and documents as possible during a short window of time. This also ensures that cherished items will be promptly returned to their owners if they are not being permanently donated to the historical society.
“These items will be coupled with our current collections to be digitally preserved and made available to the public through the internet,” said Maley. The Whitley County Historical Society eventually hopes to be able to expand their wealth of online information to include more digital images relating to county history.
“Our goal is to scan these items so that we can eventually get them on the internet and available to everyone,” added Maley.
For more information about donating or loaning items to be included in the project, contact museum director Dani Tippmann or assistant director Angela Maley at 244-6372.
'Busco town council proposes rate hike to fund water treatment facility
By Viv Sade
The Churubusco Town Council approved the second of a proposed 2-year, 3-phase water rate increase in an effort to help meet costs for building a new water treatment plant. 
Jim Constant, a resident who attended Wednesday night’s public hearing, said he was not there to protest the project, but to question whether it was a wise fiscal move to proceed with the project in light of tough economic times.
Frank Kessler, who was minutes earlier elected council president for 2009, said