Talk of the Town - Whitley County

(Talk of the Town photo provided) Rusty Reed, owner of Blackwater Refuge near Churubusco, studies “Crunch,” a 150-200 year-old alligator snapping turtle.

By Viv Sade

Oscar the Turtle will be this year's Grand Marshal of the 2009 Turtle Days Festival parade and the 60th anniversary celebration of the Hunt for Oscar.

Oscar will lead the festival parade Saturday night, June 20, at 6 p.m.

In honor of the 60th anniversary of the hunt that drew global headlines in 1949, the Turtle Days Festival Committee has lined up several new events, including a special exhibit of memorabilia, photos, videos and/or film footage which will be available for viewing all four nights of the festival, June 17-20.

"History hosts" will be on hand to discuss the exhibit and video and film footage featuring the hunt for Oscar and other aspects of Churubusco's history will be shown continuously throughout the festival.

At the center of the special history exhibit will be guest star "Crunch," a 165-pound alligator snapping turtle, owned and cared for by Blackwater Turtle Refuge. Both exhibits will be housed on the fairgrounds in the Churubusco Community Park in the Boy Scout building.

Crunch is between 150 and 200 years old, according to Rusty Reed, owner of Blackwater Refuge, located in rural Churubusco.

The giant turtle's head is 9.5 inches wide and he is over 4-feet long. Reed says the reptile eats about 6-9 pounds of food at  1-2 week intervals.

The exhibit is a proven crowd pleaser for young and old alike. Reed travels across the U.S.A. , exhibiting the giant turtle and educating people on protecting the alligator snapper species.

Crunch was captured in 1979, according to Reed. "We believe he was originally captured in Mississippi," Reed said, "but that is not certain."

Reed became his owner in 1989 after purchasing him from the only legal stockhold of alligator snappers in southern Georgia.

Reed used to house over 60 of the snappers, but has since placed them and sold them to zoos around the world.

Alligator snappers are listed as endangered and are protected in all states in their natural range, Reed said, although they still allow trapping for personal consumption in Louisiana .

Crunch and Reed travel about 10,000 miles a year - in a special climate-controlled vehicle and storage tank - and see an average of 250,000 people.

To see more of this year's events or to register for any event, go to thewww.turtledays.com. For more information on Crunch and alligator snapping turtles go to www.crunchinfo.com.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided) Rusty Reed, owner of Blackwater Refuge near Churubusco, studies “Crunch,” a 150-200 year-old alligator snapping turtle.

By Viv Sade

Oscar the Turtle will be this year's Grand Marshal of the 2009 Turtle Days Festival parade and the 60th anniversary celebration of the Hunt for Oscar.

Oscar will lead the festival parade Saturday night, June 20, at 6 p.m.

In honor of the 60th anniversary of the hunt that drew global headlines in 1949, the Turtle Days Festival Committee has lined up several new events, including a special exhibit of memorabilia, photos, videos and/or film footage which will be available for viewing all four nights of the festival, June 17-20.

"History hosts" will be on hand to discuss the exhibit and video and film footage featuring the hunt for Oscar and other aspects of Churubusco's history will be shown continuously throughout the festival.

At the center of the special history exhibit will be guest star "Crunch," a 165-pound alligator snapping turtle, owned and cared for by Blackwater Turtle Refuge. Both exhibits will be housed on the fairgrounds in the Churubusco Community Park in the Boy Scout building.

Crunch is between 150 and 200 years old, according to Rusty Reed, owner of Blackwater Refuge, located in rural Churubusco.

The giant turtle's head is 9.5 inches wide and he is over 4-feet long. Reed says the reptile eats about 6-9 pounds of food at  1-2 week intervals.

The exhibit is a proven crowd pleaser for young and old alike. Reed travels across the U.S.A. , exhibiting the giant turtle and educating people on protecting the alligator snapper species.

Crunch was captured in 1979, according to Reed. "We believe he was originally captured in Mississippi," Reed said, "but that is not certain."

Reed became his owner in 1989 after purchasing him from the only legal stockhold of alligator snappers in southern Georgia.

Reed used to house over 60 of the snappers, but has since placed them and sold them to zoos around the world.

Alligator snappers are listed as endangered and are protected in all states in their natural range, Reed said, although they still allow trapping for personal consumption in Louisiana .

Crunch and Reed travel about 10,000 miles a year - in a special climate-controlled vehicle and storage tank - and see an average of 250,000 people.

To see more of this year's events or to register for any event, go to thewww.turtledays.com. For more information on Crunch and alligator snapping turtles go to www.crunchinfo.com.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Michelle Culbertson) Present for a ribbon cutting ceremony held for the recent grand opening of the Columbia City Dunkin’ Donuts store were in front, from left, Tom Pecoraro, Dunkin’ Donuts network trainer; Vicky DeSalvo, Dunkin’ Brands field marketing manager; Travis Feldman, Dunkin’ Donuts director of operations; Kim Hart, owner; Mayor Jim Fleck; and Gavin Hart, owner. Row two, from left, is Jessica Swank, Simonson Estates Apartments; Randy Holler, Crossroads Bank; Greg Fahl, Orizon Real Estate; Cari Wells, First Source Bank; Melinda Woll, Edward Jones Investments; Sue Roman, Miller’s Merry Manor; and Deb Roy, Crossroads Bank.

By Michelle Culbertson

On Monday, May 11, Dunkin’ Donuts opened their doors to the Columbia City community and celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by the Columbia City Area Chamber of Commerce. 

Owned by Kim & Gavin Hart, this location joins three other Dunkin’ Donuts owned by the Hart’s in the Fort Wayne area and will be providing their important service of bringing fresh pastries, muffins,  cookies, and flatbread sandwiches as well as the most preferred coffee in the country to the area 24 hours a day. 

The Dunkin’ Donuts chain, in business for over 50 years, is the #1 retailer of hot and iced regular coffee-by-the-cup in America, and the largest coffee and baked goods chain in the world.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Michelle Culbertson) Present for a ribbon cutting ceremony held for the recent grand opening of the Columbia City Dunkin’ Donuts store were in front, from left, Tom Pecoraro, Dunkin’ Donuts network trainer; Vicky DeSalvo, Dunkin’ Brands field marketing manager; Travis Feldman, Dunkin’ Donuts director of operations; Kim Hart, owner; Mayor Jim Fleck; and Gavin Hart, owner. Row two, from left, is Jessica Swank, Simonson Estates Apartments; Randy Holler, Crossroads Bank; Greg Fahl, Orizon Real Estate; Cari Wells, First Source Bank; Melinda Woll, Edward Jones Investments; Sue Roman, Miller’s Merry Manor; and Deb Roy, Crossroads Bank.

By Michelle Culbertson

On Monday, May 11, Dunkin’ Donuts opened their doors to the Columbia City community and celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by the Columbia City Area Chamber of Commerce. 

Owned by Kim & Gavin Hart, this location joins three other Dunkin’ Donuts owned by the Hart’s in the Fort Wayne area and will be providing their important service of bringing fresh pastries, muffins,  cookies, and flatbread sandwiches as well as the most preferred coffee in the country to the area 24 hours a day. 

The Dunkin’ Donuts chain, in business for over 50 years, is the #1 retailer of hot and iced regular coffee-by-the-cup in America, and the largest coffee and baked goods chain in the world.

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Parkview Whitley Hospital invites the public to play in Parkview Whitley Foundation’s 21st Annual Golf Outing, which this year is hosted by The Hagerman Group and Vintage Archonics. Golfers will play an 18-hole Florida Scramble at Eagle Glen Golf Course,129 South Eagle Glen Trail, Columbia City, on Thursday, July 16.

The golf outing proceeds will benefit the purchase of digital mammography technology for Parkview Whitley Hospital.

Registration begins at 11:30 a.m., at which time lunch also will be available and the practice green and driving range will be open. A shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. begins the competition. Dinner and the awards presentation will take place at 5:30 pm.

The cost for a team of four is $360, or $90 per individual. The registration fee includes green fees, cart rental, practice green, driving range, lunch, dinner, golfer gift and prizes. Additional dinners may be purchased at $20 per dinner. Special events include longest drive, closest to the pin, hit-the-green, putting, Move-Up! ($5 per person), Skins ($20 per team) and mulligans ($5 per person, limit two).

In the event of inclement weather and the golf course is closed, the outing will be canceled. The golf portion of the fee will be refunded only at the request of the participant, and all other activities will be held on schedule.

The registration is limited to the first 32 teams paid in full before the deadline of July 8. Financial contributions from non-participating individuals and organizations will be gratefully accepted.

For additional information, call the Parkview Whitley Foundation office at 248-9802, or e-mail Candice Yeakle, foundation director, at candice.yeakle@parkview.com 

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Parkview Whitley Hospital invites the public to play in Parkview Whitley Foundation’s 21st Annual Golf Outing, which this year is hosted by The Hagerman Group and Vintage Archonics. Golfers will play an 18-hole Florida Scramble at Eagle Glen Golf Course,129 South Eagle Glen Trail, Columbia City, on Thursday, July 16.

The golf outing proceeds will benefit the purchase of digital mammography technology for Parkview Whitley Hospital.

Registration begins at 11:30 a.m., at which time lunch also will be available and the practice green and driving range will be open. A shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. begins the competition. Dinner and the awards presentation will take place at 5:30 pm.

The cost for a team of four is $360, or $90 per individual. The registration fee includes green fees, cart rental, practice green, driving range, lunch, dinner, golfer gift and prizes. Additional dinners may be purchased at $20 per dinner. Special events include longest drive, closest to the pin, hit-the-green, putting, Move-Up! ($5 per person), Skins ($20 per team) and mulligans ($5 per person, limit two).

In the event of inclement weather and the golf course is closed, the outing will be canceled. The golf portion of the fee will be refunded only at the request of the participant, and all other activities will be held on schedule.

The registration is limited to the first 32 teams paid in full before the deadline of July 8. Financial contributions from non-participating individuals and organizations will be gratefully accepted.

For additional information, call the Parkview Whitley Foundation office at 248-9802, or e-mail Candice Yeakle, foundation director, at candice.yeakle@parkview.com 

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)  First Presbyterian Church, a church with a long history in Columbia City dating to the 1800s, will close today following their final church service at 10:30 a.m. this morning. A reception will be held afterward. Past church members and anyone in the community with fond memories of the church, located at the corner of Jackson and Chauncey Streets, are invited to attend.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)  First Presbyterian Church, a church with a long history in Columbia City dating to the 1800s, will close today following their final church service at 10:30 a.m. this morning. A reception will be held afterward. Past church members and anyone in the community with fond memories of the church, located at the corner of Jackson and Chauncey Streets, are invited to attend.

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(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) David Smith, shown below in one of his re-enactor costumes, will be the featured speaker at this evening's Friends of the Peabody Public Library's final movie night of the season. 

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Silver screen stars with a local connection such as Carol Lombard or Dean Jagger are often among the movies enjoyed by the library’s philanthropic group, Friends of the Peabody Library, during their monthly movie nights.

Tonight, they’ll be watching a movie starring a Star employee – Star Financial Bank president David Smith.

Smith, when he’s not hard at work behind the desk of a bank in downtown Columbia City, has been moonlighting as a historical re-enactor for more than 25 years. His interests are primarily in the areas of war-related re-enacting.

“I started doing Civil War, but most recently have done more Revolutionary War,” Smith said. “I have also done a little War of 1812 and WWII.”

Awhile back, he saw an advertisement in a magazine and the end result was an opportunity to appear in a Mel Gibson movie, “The Patriot.”

“They requested that re-enactors send in an application and a photo,” Smith said.  “Then we just waited for a phone call to let us know if they wanted us and when.”

According to member Jon Pontzius, the Friends of the Peabody Public Library will be showing “The Patriot” as the last movie of the season tonight, May 30, at 7 p.m. at the Peabody Public Library.

“The theme for the Friends’ movies this year has been to feature local area actors, including Dean Jagger and Carol Lombard from Fort Wayne,” Pontzius said.

Pontzius also feels this selection is appropriate after this week’s Memorial Day holiday.

Smith said the process of shooting the film was fascinating – from the process of how a movie is made to the attention to detail.

“So much goes into the movie that you don’t think would make any difference,” Smith said. “For example, they sprinkled dust on our shoes to make certain we weren’t too clean. However, if you add up a 100 different elements like that, people notice.”

Smith said that 8-10 local residents participated in the film, including fellow Columbia City resident Mark Parker. 

The Friends of the Peabody Public Library movie series is free and open to the public. Popcorn and soft drinks will be available.

Officers of the Friends of the Peabody Public Library this year included president Sandy Sloan, vice president Linda Loy, secretary Laurie Steill and treasurer Betty Terman.

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(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) David Smith, shown below in one of his re-enactor costumes, will be the featured speaker at this evening's Friends of the Peabody Public Library's final movie night of the season. 

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Silver screen stars with a local connection such as Carol Lombard or Dean Jagger are often among the movies enjoyed by the library’s philanthropic group, Friends of the Peabody Library, during their monthly movie nights.

Tonight, they’ll be watching a movie starring a Star employee – Star Financial Bank president David Smith.

Smith, when he’s not hard at work behind the desk of a bank in downtown Columbia City, has been moonlighting as a historical re-enactor for more than 25 years. His interests are primarily in the areas of war-related re-enacting.

“I started doing Civil War, but most recently have done more Revolutionary War,” Smith said. “I have also done a little War of 1812 and WWII.”

Awhile back, he saw an advertisement in a magazine and the end result was an opportunity to appear in a Mel Gibson movie, “The Patriot.”

“They requested that re-enactors send in an application and a photo,” Smith said.  “Then we just waited for a phone call to let us know if they wanted us and when.”

According to member Jon Pontzius, the Friends of the Peabody Public Library will be showing “The Patriot” as the last movie of the season tonight, May 30, at 7 p.m. at the Peabody Public Library.

“The theme for the Friends’ movies this year has been to feature local area actors, including Dean Jagger and Carol Lombard from Fort Wayne,” Pontzius said.

Pontzius also feels this selection is appropriate after this week’s Memorial Day holiday.

Smith said the process of shooting the film was fascinating – from the process of how a movie is made to the attention to detail.

“So much goes into the movie that you don’t think would make any difference,” Smith said. “For example, they sprinkled dust on our shoes to make certain we weren’t too clean. However, if you add up a 100 different elements like that, people notice.”

Smith said that 8-10 local residents participated in the film, including fellow Columbia City resident Mark Parker. 

The Friends of the Peabody Public Library movie series is free and open to the public. Popcorn and soft drinks will be available.

Officers of the Friends of the Peabody Public Library this year included president Sandy Sloan, vice president Linda Loy, secretary Laurie Steill and treasurer Betty Terman.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

If you really need one more reason to go golfing today – particularly golfing with a group of friends – here’s a reason: you can help raise funds for the Columbia City fireworks show!

Registration for the Columbia City Fireworks Golf Outing at Eagle Glen Golf Course begins at 11:30 a.m. The outing begins at 1 p.m. The format of the tournament is an 18-hole scramble where the best shot of the four-player team will be used. Prizes will be awarded for the top winners.

The entry fee is $55 per person.

According to Mark Green, director of the Columbia City Parks Department, the event will offset costs associated with the annual July 4 fireworks show in Columbia City – and event local residents have enjoyed for many years.

“Each year, the fireworks show costs about $10,000,” Green said. He hopes that by being proactive and beginning an activity to raise funds to support that event, it will be able to continue to be something residents can look forward to each year.

Green expects a day may come where, without additional funding sources, the fireworks show may become too expensive to provide for the community any longer.

“This event could really raise funds to help us support the fireworks and make sure they continue,” he said.

If you cannot make it to the golf outing today, but would like to make a donation to ensure the long-term continuation of the Columbia City fireworks, contact the Columbia City Parks Department at 248-5180.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

If you really need one more reason to go golfing today – particularly golfing with a group of friends – here’s a reason: you can help raise funds for the Columbia City fireworks show!

Registration for the Columbia City Fireworks Golf Outing at Eagle Glen Golf Course begins at 11:30 a.m. The outing begins at 1 p.m. The format of the tournament is an 18-hole scramble where the best shot of the four-player team will be used. Prizes will be awarded for the top winners.

The entry fee is $55 per person.

According to Mark Green, director of the Columbia City Parks Department, the event will offset costs associated with the annual July 4 fireworks show in Columbia City – and event local residents have enjoyed for many years.

“Each year, the fireworks show costs about $10,000,” Green said. He hopes that by being proactive and beginning an activity to raise funds to support that event, it will be able to continue to be something residents can look forward to each year.

Green expects a day may come where, without additional funding sources, the fireworks show may become too expensive to provide for the community any longer.

“This event could really raise funds to help us support the fireworks and make sure they continue,” he said.

If you cannot make it to the golf outing today, but would like to make a donation to ensure the long-term continuation of the Columbia City fireworks, contact the Columbia City Parks Department at 248-5180.

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The Loon Lake Property Owners' Association will be hosting their annual spring business meeting this morning at 9:30 a.m. at Graham's Barn on the eastern shore of Loon Lake. The meeting is open to any lake resident. Items topping the agenda include plans for the upcoming Independence Day activities at Loon Lake as well as a plant sale coupon fundraiser with Clayton's Greenhouse in North Webster. Coffee and donuts will be provided by CC Deli. Attendees are asked to bring their own lawn chairs.

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The Loon Lake Property Owners' Association will be hosting their annual spring business meeting this morning at 9:30 a.m. at Graham's Barn on the eastern shore of Loon Lake. The meeting is open to any lake resident. Items topping the agenda include plans for the upcoming Independence Day activities at Loon Lake as well as a plant sale coupon fundraiser with Clayton's Greenhouse in North Webster. Coffee and donuts will be provided by CC Deli. Attendees are asked to bring their own lawn chairs.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)  The Donovan Kessler Memorial Little Swimmers Fund volunteers have been busy getting the word out, above at a booth they set up at Wal-Mart last week, and getting ready for their annual Community Cookout fundraiser, which will be held this evening from 4-7 p.m. at the pavilion in Morsches Park.

It will be held rain or shine. For $6 for adults and $4 for children, participants will get hot dogs, chips, baked beans or applesauce, dessert and a drink as well as over 150 chances to win door prizes. A raffle will provide additional opportunities to win with top prizes being a six month membership at the YMCA (worth $354) and a Peg-Perego Piaggio Vespa GT worth almost $250. Local businesses have generously supported the event and donated many excellent prizes for the event.

Funds raised at this evening’s cookout will support the Donovan Kessler Memorial Little Swimmers Fund which provides swimming lessons for children under age 5.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)  The Donovan Kessler Memorial Little Swimmers Fund volunteers have been busy getting the word out, above at a booth they set up at Wal-Mart last week, and getting ready for their annual Community Cookout fundraiser, which will be held this evening from 4-7 p.m. at the pavilion in Morsches Park.

It will be held rain or shine. For $6 for adults and $4 for children, participants will get hot dogs, chips, baked beans or applesauce, dessert and a drink as well as over 150 chances to win door prizes. A raffle will provide additional opportunities to win with top prizes being a six month membership at the YMCA (worth $354) and a Peg-Perego Piaggio Vespa GT worth almost $250. Local businesses have generously supported the event and donated many excellent prizes for the event.

Funds raised at this evening’s cookout will support the Donovan Kessler Memorial Little Swimmers Fund which provides swimming lessons for children under age 5.

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This morning, the Columbia City Farmer's Market welcomes the Peabody Public Library.  They will be set up by the cannon to sign people up for the Summer Reading Program.  Come out to the market this morning from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. and enjoy a nice variety of plants, vegetable starts, honey, eggs, jelly, baked goods, in-season fresh produce and a large selection of homemade craft items, lotions and soaps.
Rick Barton will be our featured entertainer.

The Columbia City Farmer’s Market is open every Saturday from now through October 9.

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This morning, the Columbia City Farmer's Market welcomes the Peabody Public Library.  They will be set up by the cannon to sign people up for the Summer Reading Program.  Come out to the market this morning from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. and enjoy a nice variety of plants, vegetable starts, honey, eggs, jelly, baked goods, in-season fresh produce and a large selection of homemade craft items, lotions and soaps.
Rick Barton will be our featured entertainer.

The Columbia City Farmer’s Market is open every Saturday from now through October 9.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

With so many businesses closing leaving empty shells where progress once was found, a ray of sun seems to be shining on Churubusco today.

Churubusco-based tool engineering company C&A Tool announced today that it will be acquiring the MAHLE Clevite facility in Churubusco in order to accommodate C&A’s continued growth and expansion.

“I am pleased to announce that C&A Tool is acquiring this building as a step toward our company’s future,” said CEO Dick Conrow. “Our employees continue to focus on developing new business in aerospace, medical devices, and other growth markets.”

In mid-October 2008, MAHLE Clevite announced that the Churubusco gasket packaging facility would be closing toward the end of 2009. Sadly, the closure has meant the loss of about 80 jobs and would have meant a large, empty facility – had it not been for C&A’s ability to expand at this time.

According to Alan Tio, president of the Whitley County Economic Development Corporation, C&A Tool was established in 1969 as a premier tool and die maker. The company has experienced continual growth and has become a national and international supplier of metalworking specialties. In all, 530 full-time workers are employed at facilities in the Churubusco and Auburn area.

The MAHLE Clevite facility is 330,000 square foot in size on a 42-acre campus at 570 South Main Street in Churubusco. In late 2006, the MAHLE Group had acquired the former Dana facility along with the rest of Dana’s engine hard parts business.

C&A’s announcement today further increases the company’s business size. In 2008, they added  a 105,000 square foot facility in Auburn to the company’s already burgeoning village of tool and die facilities in downtown Churubusco and 200,000 square foot headquarters and production machining facility at the southern outskirts of Churubusco. Complete details of C&A Tool’s plans for the new facility have not yet been finalized.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

With so many businesses closing leaving empty shells where progress once was found, a ray of sun seems to be shining on Churubusco today.

Churubusco-based tool engineering company C&A Tool announced today that it will be acquiring the MAHLE Clevite facility in Churubusco in order to accommodate C&A’s continued growth and expansion.

“I am pleased to announce that C&A Tool is acquiring this building as a step toward our company’s future,” said CEO Dick Conrow. “Our employees continue to focus on developing new business in aerospace, medical devices, and other growth markets.”

In mid-October 2008, MAHLE Clevite announced that the Churubusco gasket packaging facility would be closing toward the end of 2009. Sadly, the closure has meant the loss of about 80 jobs and would have meant a large, empty facility – had it not been for C&A’s ability to expand at this time.

According to Alan Tio, president of the Whitley County Economic Development Corporation, C&A Tool was established in 1969 as a premier tool and die maker. The company has experienced continual growth and has become a national and international supplier of metalworking specialties. In all, 530 full-time workers are employed at facilities in the Churubusco and Auburn area.

The MAHLE Clevite facility is 330,000 square foot in size on a 42-acre campus at 570 South Main Street in Churubusco. In late 2006, the MAHLE Group had acquired the former Dana facility along with the rest of Dana’s engine hard parts business.

C&A’s announcement today further increases the company’s business size. In 2008, they added  a 105,000 square foot facility in Auburn to the company’s already burgeoning village of tool and die facilities in downtown Churubusco and 200,000 square foot headquarters and production machining facility at the southern outskirts of Churubusco. Complete details of C&A Tool’s plans for the new facility have not yet been finalized.

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(Talk of the Town photos provided) Above, Connor Gordon prepares to make a free throw shot at last year’s GRAMS Christian Youth Basketball Camp in Columbia City. This year, the youths free throws will add up to funds raised for the BABE Program in Whitley County. Below, at left, Jacob Alles assists a young camper sharpen his shooting skills.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

As each youngster at Jacob Alles’ Christian youth basketball camp lines up, dribbles the ball and prepares to shoot – whether the youth makes his or her shot matters all the more this year. After all, they're not just aiming for a personal best -- but hoping to rack up some financial support for a local non-profit organization that serves families.

Each free throw the youths make will rack up the amount of community support for Beds and Britches Etc., the BABE Program. The BABE Program provides infant and childcare supplies to families in the community as a means of rewarding positive pre-natal and early childhood activities.

Hearing about the BABE Program, Alles decided he wanted to help out.

“It is very important to us to present the Christian message to the campers throughout the whole week,” Alles said. “Each year we have a camp theme.  This year we decided to make it about Christian service.”

The theme they chose was, “To Love Him is to Serve Him.” 

“We really wanted some sort of service project to go along with the theme and we decided on a free throw shoot fundraiser,” Alles added. “This is our first year doing a fundraiser of any kind.”

Alles said was the enthusiasm of Shawn Ellis that brought attention to that program as one they might want to support with the free throw fundraiser – and the endorsement of a trusted friend, local pastor Ross O’Dell. 

“When it was decided that the camp would raise funds for a charity, we consulted Pastor Ross O’Dell,” Alles said. “He suggested BABE.  It seems to be a great fit.”

“We love the fact that BABE focuses on equipping parents through education by promoting parenting classes and providing positive reinforcement in the form of coupons,” Alles said. “That these coupons can be redeemed for items such as diapers, blankets, clothing for children and other necessities, particularly in this time of need, is fantastic.”

“It is also a great local charity with 93% of people served being residents of Whitley County,” said Alles.  The Whitley County connection is important to Alles and his wife, Michelle, who are local business owners. The couple operates GRAMS Tutoring Center in the Linvill Building on East Van Buren Street.

“Whether it be our Christian sports camps or our tutoring center, GRAMS is a business that deals mostly with young people, so raising funds for a program aimed at supporting families with young children seems natural,” said Alles.

The next step in the process was finding support from other local businesses – a particularly challenging effort in tough economic times.

After contacting local businesses and requesting their pledge of support for the free throw fundraiser, they found the giving nature of the community to be as supportive as ever. Alles’ aspiring basketball stars will end each day of practice with free throw shooting – and each point they score means another 5-75 cents a local business has pledged to help BABE.

Local businesses supporting the challenge include Columbia City Optometry, Hill’s ATA Blackbelt Academy, Kernel Colada’s Snack Shack, Star Tire & Automotive, Starr CPA & Associates, Flow Tech Plumbing and Heating, Games and More, Trok & Krider Dentistry and Talk of the Town.

“It sounds cliché, but our whole attitude during this process has been, ‘God will provide,” Alles adds. “We have two goals, to show our campers that they can make a difference at any age, and to raise as much money for BABE as we can.”

In addition to the free throw contest, they will also be collecting toddler socks during the camp to donate to BABE.

The GRAMS Christian Youth Basketball camp is open to youths in grades Kindergarten through eighth grade who want to improve their basketball skills in a Christ-oriented environment.

This fourth annual basketball camp will be held at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Columbia City with three sessions, K-2nd, 3rd-5th, & 6th-8th.  The session times are 9-10:30 a.m., 11 a.m.-1 p.m., and 1-3 p.m. Camp will be held June 15-18, 2009.  The registration fee is $35 for session I and $40 for sessions II and III. 

Registration deadline is June 13 for the camp.

For anyone interested in registering for the camp or supporting the free throw fundraiser, contact Jacob and Michelle Alles at 248-8000 or via e-mail at gramstutoring@yahoo.com

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(Talk of the Town photos provided) Above, Connor Gordon prepares to make a free throw shot at last year’s GRAMS Christian Youth Basketball Camp in Columbia City. This year, the youths free throws will add up to funds raised for the BABE Program in Whitley County. Below, at left, Jacob Alles assists a young camper sharpen his shooting skills.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

As each youngster at Jacob Alles’ Christian youth basketball camp lines up, dribbles the ball and prepares to shoot – whether the youth makes his or her shot matters all the more this year. After all, they're not just aiming for a personal best -- but hoping to rack up some financial support for a local non-profit organization that serves families.

Each free throw the youths make will rack up the amount of community support for Beds and Britches Etc., the BABE Program. The BABE Program provides infant and childcare supplies to families in the community as a means of rewarding positive pre-natal and early childhood activities.

Hearing about the BABE Program, Alles decided he wanted to help out.

“It is very important to us to present the Christian message to the campers throughout the whole week,” Alles said. “Each year we have a camp theme.  This year we decided to make it about Christian service.”

The theme they chose was, “To Love Him is to Serve Him.” 

“We really wanted some sort of service project to go along with the theme and we decided on a free throw shoot fundraiser,” Alles added. “This is our first year doing a fundraiser of any kind.”

Alles said was the enthusiasm of Shawn Ellis that brought attention to that program as one they might want to support with the free throw fundraiser – and the endorsement of a trusted friend, local pastor Ross O’Dell. 

“When it was decided that the camp would raise funds for a charity, we consulted Pastor Ross O’Dell,” Alles said. “He suggested BABE.  It seems to be a great fit.”

“We love the fact that BABE focuses on equipping parents through education by promoting parenting classes and providing positive reinforcement in the form of coupons,” Alles said. “That these coupons can be redeemed for items such as diapers, blankets, clothing for children and other necessities, particularly in this time of need, is fantastic.”

“It is also a great local charity with 93% of people served being residents of Whitley County,” said Alles.  The Whitley County connection is important to Alles and his wife, Michelle, who are local business owners. The couple operates GRAMS Tutoring Center in the Linvill Building on East Van Buren Street.

“Whether it be our Christian sports camps or our tutoring center, GRAMS is a business that deals mostly with young people, so raising funds for a program aimed at supporting families with young children seems natural,” said Alles.

The next step in the process was finding support from other local businesses – a particularly challenging effort in tough economic times.

After contacting local businesses and requesting their pledge of support for the free throw fundraiser, they found the giving nature of the community to be as supportive as ever. Alles’ aspiring basketball stars will end each day of practice with free throw shooting – and each point they score means another 5-75 cents a local business has pledged to help BABE.

Local businesses supporting the challenge include Columbia City Optometry, Hill’s ATA Blackbelt Academy, Kernel Colada’s Snack Shack, Star Tire & Automotive, Starr CPA & Associates, Flow Tech Plumbing and Heating, Games and More, Trok & Krider Dentistry and Talk of the Town.

“It sounds cliché, but our whole attitude during this process has been, ‘God will provide,” Alles adds. “We have two goals, to show our campers that they can make a difference at any age, and to raise as much money for BABE as we can.”

In addition to the free throw contest, they will also be collecting toddler socks during the camp to donate to BABE.

The GRAMS Christian Youth Basketball camp is open to youths in grades Kindergarten through eighth grade who want to improve their basketball skills in a Christ-oriented environment.

This fourth annual basketball camp will be held at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Columbia City with three sessions, K-2nd, 3rd-5th, & 6th-8th.  The session times are 9-10:30 a.m., 11 a.m.-1 p.m., and 1-3 p.m. Camp will be held June 15-18, 2009.  The registration fee is $35 for session I and $40 for sessions II and III. 

Registration deadline is June 13 for the camp.

For anyone interested in registering for the camp or supporting the free throw fundraiser, contact Jacob and Michelle Alles at 248-8000 or via e-mail at gramstutoring@yahoo.com

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Join us in congratulating the Scott & Jessica (Alles) Smith family and the Aaron & Misty (Cowdin) Oliver family on the birth of their new babies! Click here to read more about them and share your messages of congratulations!

As always, if you have engagement, wedding, anniversary, graduation, birth announcements, birthdays or any other special news you'd like to share -- send it (and several photos if you'd like as well) to: jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com

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Join us in congratulating the Scott & Jessica (Alles) Smith family and the Aaron & Misty (Cowdin) Oliver family on the birth of their new babies! Click here to read more about them and share your messages of congratulations!

As always, if you have engagement, wedding, anniversary, graduation, birth announcements, birthdays or any other special news you'd like to share -- send it (and several photos if you'd like as well) to: jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com

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The CC Deli will be closed on Saturdays for the remainder of the summer, but that doesn’t mean you can’t order ahead and enjoy delicious CC Deli subs and baked goods during the weekend. In fact, make your summer entertaining easy with catering from the CC Deli!

Friday’s soup options for this week include veggie beef soup and chili. It’s hot outside (or should be) so make sure you ask for an ice cream cone before you go!

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The CC Deli will be closed on Saturdays for the remainder of the summer, but that doesn’t mean you can’t order ahead and enjoy delicious CC Deli subs and baked goods during the weekend. In fact, make your summer entertaining easy with catering from the CC Deli!

Friday’s soup options for this week include veggie beef soup and chili. It’s hot outside (or should be) so make sure you ask for an ice cream cone before you go!

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The Noble County Democratic Party will host its annual picnic on Wednesday, June 3 at 6:30 p.m. at the Avilla Town Park in Avilla.  Please bring a dish to share and spare lawn chairs.  The event will be held rain or shine.  The door prize will be a ticket to the Indiana Democratic Party Jefferson Jackson Day Dinner featuring President Bill Clinton (valued at $125).  Everyone is welcome to attend. If you have questions, please contact Carmen Darland at (260) 237-1199.

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The Noble County Democratic Party will host its annual picnic on Wednesday, June 3 at 6:30 p.m. at the Avilla Town Park in Avilla.  Please bring a dish to share and spare lawn chairs.  The event will be held rain or shine.  The door prize will be a ticket to the Indiana Democratic Party Jefferson Jackson Day Dinner featuring President Bill Clinton (valued at $125).  Everyone is welcome to attend. If you have questions, please contact Carmen Darland at (260) 237-1199.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Michelle Culbertson) The Columbia City Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors recently selected the Melinda Woll office of Edward Joens as the May Business of the Month. Attending the awards presentation, above from left,  was Chamber board president Jack Moore of Embarq; Melinda Woll & Linda Barrett of Edward Jones Investments, Jennifer Zartman Romano of Talk of the Town; and Sue Roman of Miller’s Merry Manor. Row two, from left, is Ryan Meek of Walgreen Drug Store; Bill Foulke of Northeastern  REMC; Lee Aumsbaugh of Aumsbaugh Flooring; Randy Holler of Crossroads Bank; and Greg Fahl of Orizon Real Estate.  

By Michelle Culbertson

Columbia City Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors recently awarded the May Business of the Month to Edward Jones Investments, Melinda Woll’s office. 

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(Talk of the Town photo by Michelle Culbertson) The Columbia City Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors recently selected the Melinda Woll office of Edward Joens as the May Business of the Month. Attending the awards presentation, above from left,  was Chamber board president Jack Moore of Embarq; Melinda Woll & Linda Barrett of Edward Jones Investments, Jennifer Zartman Romano of Talk of the Town; and Sue Roman of Miller’s Merry Manor. Row two, from left, is Ryan Meek of Walgreen Drug Store; Bill Foulke of Northeastern  REMC; Lee Aumsbaugh of Aumsbaugh Flooring; Randy Holler of Crossroads Bank; and Greg Fahl of Orizon Real Estate.  

By Michelle Culbertson

Columbia City Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors recently awarded the May Business of the Month to Edward Jones Investments, Melinda Woll’s office. 

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(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)

Article Provided 

State Senator Gary Dillon (R-Columbia City) was recognized today by Senate President Pro Tempore David Long (R-Fort Wayne) for achieving an outstanding voting attendance record of 99.8 percent during the 2009 regular legislative session.                
"Legislators are elected to be the voice of their constituents at the Statehouse," Long said. "This is often much easier said than done. Senators frequently have meetings, visitors and many other activities occurring simultaneously. Senator Dillon's commitment to the citizens he represents is clearly shown by his excellent voting attendance record."
In addition to votes on bills, there are also votes on amendments, committee reports and procedural motions.
"My foremost responsibility as a state senator is to ensure my constituents' voices are heard on issues that come before the General Assembly," Dillon said. "I am committed to the citizens of Senate District 17 and representing their viewpoints."  
Long also commended Dillon and other senators for working with fellow lawmakers of both political parties.

"Hoosiers may be pleased to know the Indiana Senate passed 98.7 percent of legislation with bipartisan votes and 58.7 percent unanimously," Long said.

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(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)

Article Provided 

State Senator Gary Dillon (R-Columbia City) was recognized today by Senate President Pro Tempore David Long (R-Fort Wayne) for achieving an outstanding voting attendance record of 99.8 percent during the 2009 regular legislative session.                
"Legislators are elected to be the voice of their constituents at the Statehouse," Long said. "This is often much easier said than done. Senators frequently have meetings, visitors and many other activities occurring simultaneously. Senator Dillon's commitment to the citizens he represents is clearly shown by his excellent voting attendance record."
In addition to votes on bills, there are also votes on amendments, committee reports and procedural motions.
"My foremost responsibility as a state senator is to ensure my constituents' voices are heard on issues that come before the General Assembly," Dillon said. "I am committed to the citizens of Senate District 17 and representing their viewpoints."  
Long also commended Dillon and other senators for working with fellow lawmakers of both political parties.

"Hoosiers may be pleased to know the Indiana Senate passed 98.7 percent of legislation with bipartisan votes and 58.7 percent unanimously," Long said.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana is hosting a special event for cancer survivors – including those in Whitley County.

On National Cancer Survivors Day, Sunday, June 7, 2009, from 2-3:30 p.m., cancer survivors and their families are invited to attend a celebration at the Fort Wayne Marriott Hotel, 305 East Washington Center Road, in Fort Wayne.

International humorist and cancer survivor Mack Dryden is the featured speaker at the event. Children’s activities have been planned.

The event is free. To RSVP, call (260) 484-9560.

Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana serves a multi-county area, including cancer patients and their families in Whitley County.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana is hosting a special event for cancer survivors – including those in Whitley County.

On National Cancer Survivors Day, Sunday, June 7, 2009, from 2-3:30 p.m., cancer survivors and their families are invited to attend a celebration at the Fort Wayne Marriott Hotel, 305 East Washington Center Road, in Fort Wayne.

International humorist and cancer survivor Mack Dryden is the featured speaker at the event. Children’s activities have been planned.

The event is free. To RSVP, call (260) 484-9560.

Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana serves a multi-county area, including cancer patients and their families in Whitley County.

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(Talk of the Town photos provided)

By Rachel Burkholder

With another school year complete, two Indian Springs Middle School teachers are embarking on a new quest, a quest for a cure.

Kim Walter and Jill Baker, an English teacher and a math teacher, respectively, will be participating in the Avon 2-Day Walk for Breast Cancer in Chicago on June 6 and 7.

The Avon Walks are non-competitive weekend fundraising walks for all fitness levels that require a significant commitment from participants, both physically and financially. Each participant is required to raise at least $1,800 and undergo months of training to prepare. The course offers the option of walking a marathon (26.2 miles) or a marathon and a half (39.3 miles) over the two day event. Last year participants included men and women of all ages from all 50 states and 14 countries, in addition to nearly 2,000 breast cancer survivors.

Since 2003, over $265 million has been raised by the Avon Walks through the dedication of nearly 100,000 participating women and men, ranging in age from 16 to those in their 80s -- from every walk of life.

The money that Walter and Baker raise will be managed and disbursed by The Avon Foundation which looks at attacking breast cancer from many angles. They fund medical research looking for causes, prevention, treatment, and a cure for breast cancer. They also fund clinical care for breast cancer patients and support services for their families. Lastly, they fund education programs as well as early detection services.

The minimum goal set by the Avon Foundation for each walker is $1,800, although surpassing that goal would be a wonderful testament to our community’s commitment to fighting this deadly disease. If you wish to help Walter and Baker in their effort to raise funds for the Avon Foundation, there are two ways to donate. Write a check to the “Avon Walk for Breast Cancer” and send it to Kim at her home address (581 E 900 S, Columbia City, IN 46725) by Thursday, June 5. Or click on their names below and donate online using your credit or debit card:

Kim Walter

Jill Baker

All donations are 100% tax deductible. To track your donation for tax deduction purposes, please keep a copy of your cancelled check or your credit card statement. The Avon Foundation sends tax deduction letters for donations that are $250 and above.

If you want to learn more on how you can make a difference through the Avon 2-Day Walk you can visit www.Avonwalk.org  

Walter and Baker want to thank all of their friends, families and the community for their support – together we WILL find a cure!

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(Talk of the Town photos provided)

By Rachel Burkholder

With another school year complete, two Indian Springs Middle School teachers are embarking on a new quest, a quest for a cure.

Kim Walter and Jill Baker, an English teacher and a math teacher, respectively, will be participating in the Avon 2-Day Walk for Breast Cancer in Chicago on June 6 and 7.

The Avon Walks are non-competitive weekend fundraising walks for all fitness levels that require a significant commitment from participants, both physically and financially. Each participant is required to raise at least $1,800 and undergo months of training to prepare. The course offers the option of walking a marathon (26.2 miles) or a marathon and a half (39.3 miles) over the two day event. Last year participants included men and women of all ages from all 50 states and 14 countries, in addition to nearly 2,000 breast cancer survivors.

Since 2003, over $265 million has been raised by the Avon Walks through the dedication of nearly 100,000 participating women and men, ranging in age from 16 to those in their 80s -- from every walk of life.

The money that Walter and Baker raise will be managed and disbursed by The Avon Foundation which looks at attacking breast cancer from many angles. They fund medical research looking for causes, prevention, treatment, and a cure for breast cancer. They also fund clinical care for breast cancer patients and support services for their families. Lastly, they fund education programs as well as early detection services.

The minimum goal set by the Avon Foundation for each walker is $1,800, although surpassing that goal would be a wonderful testament to our community’s commitment to fighting this deadly disease. If you wish to help Walter and Baker in their effort to raise funds for the Avon Foundation, there are two ways to donate. Write a check to the “Avon Walk for Breast Cancer” and send it to Kim at her home address (581 E 900 S, Columbia City, IN 46725) by Thursday, June 5. Or click on their names below and donate online using your credit or debit card:

Kim Walter

Jill Baker

All donations are 100% tax deductible. To track your donation for tax deduction purposes, please keep a copy of your cancelled check or your credit card statement. The Avon Foundation sends tax deduction letters for donations that are $250 and above.

If you want to learn more on how you can make a difference through the Avon 2-Day Walk you can visit www.Avonwalk.org  

Walter and Baker want to thank all of their friends, families and the community for their support – together we WILL find a cure!

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) 

Are you looking for something new and different to jazz up your garden this year? If you’ve got more hostas than you need and would rather trade your plants that spend your hard earned money buying new ones, an upcoming event a few miles south of here in Huntington might be just what you need!

Huntington’s annual Plant Swap will be held Saturday, June 6, on downtown Jefferson Street between Washington and Market Streets. 

Registration is from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. The swap begins at 10 a.m. and continues until noon. Entries for the container contest must be registered by 9 a.m.

Swappers may bring up to 20 plants for the round-robin style swap.

Plant categories include annuals, perennials, house plants, herbs, fruits and vegetables and garden miscellaneous.

The event has several rules, including the following:

-Absolutely no money is to be exchanged for any swap item

-No banned plants allowed (i.e., Purple Loosestrife)

-Bring healthy, attractive plants that you would want to take home yourself, in a container no bigger than a gallon

-Three to five bulbs, corms and other tubers per bag

-Plants must be labeled with as much information as possible

-No one is to touch plants in others’ holding areas.

Tickets may be redeemed as follows: 1 gallon = 1 ticket; one four-inch pot = one ticket; a six- or four-pack = one ticket; bulbs, tubers, corms at three to five per bag = one ticket; Daylillies, Siberian Iris, Bearded Iris at three to five per bundle = one ticket

Local nurseries, florists and farmers-market vendors also will be available during the event.

The Plant Swap is sponsored by the Huntington Park and Recreation Department in cooperation with the Huntington Downtown Business Group. For more information, contact Teresa Plasterer at (260) 356-2191.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) 

Are you looking for something new and different to jazz up your garden this year? If you’ve got more hostas than you need and would rather trade your plants that spend your hard earned money buying new ones, an upcoming event a few miles south of here in Huntington might be just what you need!

Huntington’s annual Plant Swap will be held Saturday, June 6, on downtown Jefferson Street between Washington and Market Streets. 

Registration is from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. The swap begins at 10 a.m. and continues until noon. Entries for the container contest must be registered by 9 a.m.

Swappers may bring up to 20 plants for the round-robin style swap.

Plant categories include annuals, perennials, house plants, herbs, fruits and vegetables and garden miscellaneous.

The event has several rules, including the following:

-Absolutely no money is to be exchanged for any swap item

-No banned plants allowed (i.e., Purple Loosestrife)

-Bring healthy, attractive plants that you would want to take home yourself, in a container no bigger than a gallon

-Three to five bulbs, corms and other tubers per bag

-Plants must be labeled with as much information as possible

-No one is to touch plants in others’ holding areas.

Tickets may be redeemed as follows: 1 gallon = 1 ticket; one four-inch pot = one ticket; a six- or four-pack = one ticket; bulbs, tubers, corms at three to five per bag = one ticket; Daylillies, Siberian Iris, Bearded Iris at three to five per bundle = one ticket

Local nurseries, florists and farmers-market vendors also will be available during the event.

The Plant Swap is sponsored by the Huntington Park and Recreation Department in cooperation with the Huntington Downtown Business Group. For more information, contact Teresa Plasterer at (260) 356-2191.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Whitley County’s Relay for Life for the American Cancer Society is just weeks away from 24-hours of fun, family and fundraising – with a goal of raising $65,000.

Beginning at 9 a.m. on June 6, 2009, activities will continue throughout the day on the track and surrounding field area of Indian Springs Middle School.

One of the many events planned that day is a silent auction which has been wonderfully supported by area business and individuals. The auction begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 9 p.m. on June 6.

What follows is a list of some of the items that will be available in the auction:

a Hydrangea tree from Daniel Landscaping, cornhole boards, fishing gear from Busco Bait & Tackle, treats from Kernel Colada’s Snack Shack, gold pendant from Murphy’s Jewelers, Holland Lop bunny, carpet cleaning service from Aladdin’s, oil changes, restaurant gift certificates, an original print by Carolyn Beard, tools from Morsches, cookbooks, haircuts, handmade items and gifts, an area rug from Aumsbaugh Flooring, a floral arrangement from The Watering Can Florist, a painting by Sarah Creason and much more.

Games and activities will be going on throughout the day and into the evening. Entertainment will be provided during the day by the All Star Twirlers, the Red Hat Strutters and at 7 p.m. there will be a free concert by Cheyenne.

Click the link below for the full schedule of events...

Posted by jennifer321 at 03:57 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Whitley County’s Relay for Life for the American Cancer Society is just weeks away from 24-hours of fun, family and fundraising – with a goal of raising $65,000.

Beginning at 9 a.m. on June 6, 2009, activities will continue throughout the day on the track and surrounding field area of Indian Springs Middle School.

One of the many events planned that day is a silent auction which has been wonderfully supported by area business and individuals. The auction begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 9 p.m. on June 6.

What follows is a list of some of the items that will be available in the auction:

a Hydrangea tree from Daniel Landscaping, cornhole boards, fishing gear from Busco Bait & Tackle, treats from Kernel Colada’s Snack Shack, gold pendant from Murphy’s Jewelers, Holland Lop bunny, carpet cleaning service from Aladdin’s, oil changes, restaurant gift certificates, an original print by Carolyn Beard, tools from Morsches, cookbooks, haircuts, handmade items and gifts, an area rug from Aumsbaugh Flooring, a floral arrangement from The Watering Can Florist, a painting by Sarah Creason and much more.

Games and activities will be going on throughout the day and into the evening. Entertainment will be provided during the day by the All Star Twirlers, the Red Hat Strutters and at 7 p.m. there will be a free concert by Cheyenne.

Click the link below for the full schedule of events...

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(Talk of the Town photo provided) Mrs. Williams second grade class at Churubusco Elementary School recently completed their Junior Achievement “Our Community” class. Standing with the class, in back from left, is Mrs. Williams, John Black and Cathy Oberholtzer.

Article provided

Twenty-five students in Mrs. William's second grade class at Churubusco Elementary School recently completed the Junior Achievement course "Our Community."  

The students learned the importance of businesses, jobs, government, and the responsibilities and opportunities available within our community.  

John Black and Cathy Oberholtzer, representing Mahle Clevite in Churubusco and the United Way of Whitley County, instructed the course.  

Diplomas were awarded in the final class and Rachel Jarvis, manager of the Churubusco McDonalds, presented each student with a Happy Meal.  

Junior Achievement is a not-for-profit organization financed by businesses, foundations, individuals and the United Way.  

The purpose of Junior Achievement is to educate and inspire young people to value free enterprise, business, and economics to improve the quality of their lives.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided) Mrs. Williams second grade class at Churubusco Elementary School recently completed their Junior Achievement “Our Community” class. Standing with the class, in back from left, is Mrs. Williams, John Black and Cathy Oberholtzer.

Article provided

Twenty-five students in Mrs. William's second grade class at Churubusco Elementary School recently completed the Junior Achievement course "Our Community."  

The students learned the importance of businesses, jobs, government, and the responsibilities and opportunities available within our community.  

John Black and Cathy Oberholtzer, representing Mahle Clevite in Churubusco and the United Way of Whitley County, instructed the course.  

Diplomas were awarded in the final class and Rachel Jarvis, manager of the Churubusco McDonalds, presented each student with a Happy Meal.  

Junior Achievement is a not-for-profit organization financed by businesses, foundations, individuals and the United Way.  

The purpose of Junior Achievement is to educate and inspire young people to value free enterprise, business, and economics to improve the quality of their lives.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Marla Fahl) Columbia City Rotarians may have celebrated their 90^th anniversary last Tuesday in front of the site of the club’s first meeting, the Clugston, in Columbia City. Members present for the commemorative photo following Tuesday’s club meeting included, seated from left, Elmer Heinley (a 60 year club member) and Dale Pence. Standing in row one, from left, is Jennifer Zartman Romano, June Keiser, Jacie Worrick, Harold Myers, Dick Haworth, Francis Bundy, Al Anderson and Lisa Harris. Row two, from left, is Ryan Anderson, Trudy Miller-Longhenry, Dr. Renel Alarie, Erica Miller, Tom Drew, Jim Banks, Gene Smith, Brad Minier, Candice Yeakle and Matt Rentschler.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

History is a peculiar thing.

Sometimes you think you know it and then, when it gets down to it, you realize you might know the whole story.

On Tuesday, May 19, Columbia City Rotarians may have celebrated the 90^th anniversary of the club’s charter. Then again, the celebration might have been a bit premature.

According to local history, the Columbia City Rotary Club was chartered on May 19, 1919, and held their first meetings at the Clugston Hotel in downtown Columbia City.

Rotary International has the club’s charter dated June 19, 1919. Which date is accurate?

An initial look at newspaper coverage of those dates turns up no answers at the Peabody Public Library. Nor did a visit to the Whitley County Historical Museum. Little exists on the early days of the club beyond the written history of the club created in honor of the 75^th anniversary.

Local Rotarians are hoping to find the answer once and for all and perhaps someone in the community knows for sure.

Unfortunately, many of the club’s early rosters, minutes and other important documents were lost in a move between one of the many places the organization has gathered over the years. Possibly somewhere, in the back of someone’s closet or in a storage box, those documents still exist and might shed some light on the subject.

Regardless, local Rotarians are excited about the club’s anniversary – making it among the oldest service clubs continuously meeting in the community.

And, just in case the big day really was May 19, 1919, a large group of Rotarians gathered in front of the Clugston Hotel – still beautiful and glorious today as it was back when the first Rotarians met there – to have their photo taken for posterity on Tuesday afternoon.

A committee is currently planning a major celebration of the group’s 90^th Anniversary on July 10 at 7 p.m. at the site of their first meeting -- The Clugston.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Marla Fahl) Columbia City Rotarians may have celebrated their 90^th anniversary last Tuesday in front of the site of the club’s first meeting, the Clugston, in Columbia City. Members present for the commemorative photo following Tuesday’s club meeting included, seated from left, Elmer Heinley (a 60 year club member) and Dale Pence. Standing in row one, from left, is Jennifer Zartman Romano, June Keiser, Jacie Worrick, Harold Myers, Dick Haworth, Francis Bundy, Al Anderson and Lisa Harris. Row two, from left, is Ryan Anderson, Trudy Miller-Longhenry, Dr. Renel Alarie, Erica Miller, Tom Drew, Jim Banks, Gene Smith, Brad Minier, Candice Yeakle and Matt Rentschler.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

History is a peculiar thing.

Sometimes you think you know it and then, when it gets down to it, you realize you might know the whole story.

On Tuesday, May 19, Columbia City Rotarians may have celebrated the 90^th anniversary of the club’s charter. Then again, the celebration might have been a bit premature.

According to local history, the Columbia City Rotary Club was chartered on May 19, 1919, and held their first meetings at the Clugston Hotel in downtown Columbia City.

Rotary International has the club’s charter dated June 19, 1919. Which date is accurate?

An initial look at newspaper coverage of those dates turns up no answers at the Peabody Public Library. Nor did a visit to the Whitley County Historical Museum. Little exists on the early days of the club beyond the written history of the club created in honor of the 75^th anniversary.

Local Rotarians are hoping to find the answer once and for all and perhaps someone in the community knows for sure.

Unfortunately, many of the club’s early rosters, minutes and other important documents were lost in a move between one of the many places the organization has gathered over the years. Possibly somewhere, in the back of someone’s closet or in a storage box, those documents still exist and might shed some light on the subject.

Regardless, local Rotarians are excited about the club’s anniversary – making it among the oldest service clubs continuously meeting in the community.

And, just in case the big day really was May 19, 1919, a large group of Rotarians gathered in front of the Clugston Hotel – still beautiful and glorious today as it was back when the first Rotarians met there – to have their photo taken for posterity on Tuesday afternoon.

A committee is currently planning a major celebration of the group’s 90^th Anniversary on July 10 at 7 p.m. at the site of their first meeting -- The Clugston.

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(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, the firing squad salutes. Below, Cliff Anderson and Mitch Hoffman watch with pride as a crowd pours into Greenhill Cemetery in Columbia City for a Memorial Day ceremony on Monday. At bottom, the crowd of young and old observed the ceremony.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

The sense of patriotism and appreciation for the contributions of veterans could be felt and seen Monday morning when the American Legion Post 98’s annual Memorial Day Parade wound its way through Columbia City to Greenhill Cemetery.

A delight for many involved in the planning of the event, the crowds this year appeared larger – not just in the downtown area, but in the residential areas as well. Seated on picnic blankets or in lawn chairs, flags, hands and smiles were directed in reverence to the groups of veterans passing by.

The parade began at 10:30 a.m. at Marshall Memorial and entered Greenhill Cemetery awhile later, bringing with it a large contingent of attendees for the ceremony held there.

Adjutant and past Post 98 Commander Richard A. Stark addressed the crowd, saying, “We must remember and understand that freedom is not free and we owe our liberty to those who gave their all.”

“Sacrifice is meaningless without remembrance,” Stark said.

In reference to the way Americans perceive soldiers of today, Stark said, “Most Americans now have been able to separate the war from the warrior. This was something that was not done during the Vietnam War. Making that distinction is all important to those in uniform.”

In closing, Stark added, “As we remember our predecessors from the two World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, Beirut, Grenada and the Persian Gulf, the Global War on Terrorism is being won by ordinary Americans making ordinary sacrifices.”

Stark thanked those in attendance both for caring enough to be there and for the impact their presence has on veterans.

Post 98 Commander Dean Ramsey read a highly emotional poem, bringing tears to the eyes of many in the crowd.

Pastor Paul Arnold of Columbia City United Methodist Church gave a brief speech and provided a closing prayer.

A wreath was presented by SAL Commander Mitch Hoffman and SAL Adjutant Cliff Anderson.

Also participating in the ceremony were Matt Shoda and Anthony Cordova, the Korean War Veterans color guard comprised of John Slaybaugh, Jim Shaw, Paul Gates and Don York, VFW representatives Dave Hawn and Robert Restmeyer, Doug Fahl of the 76^th Infantry Brigade – National Guard.

As the song taps was played, the firing squad sounded. The firing squad included Commander Bill Hare on the bugle as well as Homer Wells, Bob Hearld, Larry Jones, Mike Bellinger, Frank Fry, Bill Rea and Paul Thompson.

Additional photographs from Monday’s events will be posted later today here on Talk of the Town.

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(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, the firing squad salutes. Below, Cliff Anderson and Mitch Hoffman watch with pride as a crowd pours into Greenhill Cemetery in Columbia City for a Memorial Day ceremony on Monday. At bottom, the crowd of young and old observed the ceremony.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

The sense of patriotism and appreciation for the contributions of veterans could be felt and seen Monday morning when the American Legion Post 98’s annual Memorial Day Parade wound its way through Columbia City to Greenhill Cemetery.

A delight for many involved in the planning of the event, the crowds this year appeared larger – not just in the downtown area, but in the residential areas as well. Seated on picnic blankets or in lawn chairs, flags, hands and smiles were directed in reverence to the groups of veterans passing by.

The parade began at 10:30 a.m. at Marshall Memorial and entered Greenhill Cemetery awhile later, bringing with it a large contingent of attendees for the ceremony held there.

Adjutant and past Post 98 Commander Richard A. Stark addressed the crowd, saying, “We must remember and understand that freedom is not free and we owe our liberty to those who gave their all.”

“Sacrifice is meaningless without remembrance,” Stark said.

In reference to the way Americans perceive soldiers of today, Stark said, “Most Americans now have been able to separate the war from the warrior. This was something that was not done during the Vietnam War. Making that distinction is all important to those in uniform.”

In closing, Stark added, “As we remember our predecessors from the two World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, Beirut, Grenada and the Persian Gulf, the Global War on Terrorism is being won by ordinary Americans making ordinary sacrifices.”

Stark thanked those in attendance both for caring enough to be there and for the impact their presence has on veterans.

Post 98 Commander Dean Ramsey read a highly emotional poem, bringing tears to the eyes of many in the crowd.

Pastor Paul Arnold of Columbia City United Methodist Church gave a brief speech and provided a closing prayer.

A wreath was presented by SAL Commander Mitch Hoffman and SAL Adjutant Cliff Anderson.

Also participating in the ceremony were Matt Shoda and Anthony Cordova, the Korean War Veterans color guard comprised of John Slaybaugh, Jim Shaw, Paul Gates and Don York, VFW representatives Dave Hawn and Robert Restmeyer, Doug Fahl of the 76^th Infantry Brigade – National Guard.

As the song taps was played, the firing squad sounded. The firing squad included Commander Bill Hare on the bugle as well as Homer Wells, Bob Hearld, Larry Jones, Mike Bellinger, Frank Fry, Bill Rea and Paul Thompson.

Additional photographs from Monday’s events will be posted later today here on Talk of the Town.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)  Columbia City veteran Doug Fahl, below, stands in Greenhill Cemetery today during the Memorial Day observance ceremony held there. Fahl participated in the color guard during the ceremony held just before noon today.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

On Memorial Day, our thoughts turn to the men and women who’ve served our country during the many periods of war in our history.

We quickly think of veterans our grandparents’ age, the men who served in World War II, or of those soldiers who served in Vietnam or maybe a few, younger still, who served in Desert Storm. But the faces of our soldiers grow younger each day – with many young men and women serving overseas now in Iraq, Afghanistan and wherever else this War on Terror takes them.

One of the younger faces of a veteran belongs to Columbia City resident Doug Fahl.

Today, Fahl rode in a parade float through the streets of Columbia City, waiving and smiling to friends and family along the way – a happier time and place than where he was a few short months ago. He recently shared his experience in Iraq with Columbia City Rotary members.

Last year, Fahl served as a JAG in Iraq with the National Guard’s 76^th Infantry Brigade, an experience that brought him face to face with an often unseen enemy and with America’s 21^st Century soldiers.

Fahl’s pre-mobility training, prior to being sent overseas, included important convoy logistics, search and attack and an explanation of third world war tactics.

“They had us out in the woods,” Fahl said. “But I looked all over and I did not see any woods in Iraq.”

“We learned a lot about the techniques the enemy was using, including the use of IEDs (roadside bombs),” Fahl said. “It’s a unique challenge to face an enemy that won’t face you.”

But the American soldier, like the scores of soldiers in wars since our country began, utilizes skill and ingenuity to prevail.

“The American soldier is a very adaptive, creative soldier,” Fahl said, relating stories of the young men and women who are fighting today who’ve helped create tools that save lives on the battlefield each day. He spoke of the 22-year-old soldier who created the Rhino, a arm-like device with coolant, that reaches out front the front of a vehicle to trip a roadside bomb, saving the military vehicle and its occupants.

The sense of ingenuity and creative-thinking is necessary each day because, according to Fahl, the enemy is using those same skills. “Iran supplies terrorists with many of their weapons,” he said. “They are very industrious people who use crude and random items to create weapons. “Most of the explosives they have – we sold to them to my knowledge,” he said of deals that were made decades ago.

Fahl left for Kuwait on a C130,  with a hammock for a seat and no lights inside. He landed an hour north of Iraq and was sent to provide convoy security.

In Iraq, the sand and dust hung in the air much like talcum powder. “It would get into everything and it hung in the air like fog,” he said. The soldiers lived in containerized housing units much like semi-trailers, but furnished.

“Really, they were pretty comfortable compared to the tents in Kuwait,” he said.

As expected, they found themselves in various scrapes and trouble. His group worked through the night because it was safer for convoys to travel in the dark. Fahl said the enemy relies primarily on sight using cell phones and they do not have much in the way of night vision technology.

“We’d be rolling out each day and not knowing what was going to happen that night,” Fahl said. Prayer, he said, was an important part of each day – praying together as they left before each mission.

“We felt like it was a tough job, but that we were going to get it done,” he said.

Fahl’s biggest surprise overseas was the sheer enormity of the base in Balad and the numbers of troops he saw there. The Iraqi people he met were very much like anyone living near an Army base, Fahl said.

“They are very reliant on the base in the Iraqi Based Industrial Zone. It has had a huge impact on their economy,” he said. “For them, this is an exciting time. They didn’t ask a lot from their government – just not to be taken from their families, from their homes or to be beaten and killed in the night.”

In his experience in Iraq, most of the enemies he encountered were paid to fight the troops and were not members of religious extremist groups.

Regardless of what the future holds in Iraq, Fahl believes the US will always have a presence there.

“A lot of American troops are dialing down there and you see more contractors there to work,” he said.

When Fahl returned home, he said he was struck by the color of everything around him – the vibrance of American life.

“Boy, when I got home and saw the brilliance and color around me,” he said, smiling.

 “When I hear news about the doom and gloom – that’s just not the country I’m seeing coming back home,” Fahl said.

After nine months without rain, he’s thrilled to have the experience of a rainy day and after 18 months of desert sand, he was actually excited to watch the shades of green appear on the lawn and in the trees of his Columbia City home this spring. He relished the opportunity to cut the grass for the first time – his first opportunity to mow his lawn in 18 months.

“I feel so proud to have served my country and to have served with the others in my unit,” Fahl said. “It’s been a really great experience to have the welcome we had when we came back.”

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)  Columbia City veteran Doug Fahl, below, stands in Greenhill Cemetery today during the Memorial Day observance ceremony held there. Fahl participated in the color guard during the ceremony held just before noon today.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

On Memorial Day, our thoughts turn to the men and women who’ve served our country during the many periods of war in our history.

We quickly think of veterans our grandparents’ age, the men who served in World War II, or of those soldiers who served in Vietnam or maybe a few, younger still, who served in Desert Storm. But the faces of our soldiers grow younger each day – with many young men and women serving overseas now in Iraq, Afghanistan and wherever else this War on Terror takes them.

One of the younger faces of a veteran belongs to Columbia City resident Doug Fahl.

Today, Fahl rode in a parade float through the streets of Columbia City, waiving and smiling to friends and family along the way – a happier time and place than where he was a few short months ago. He recently shared his experience in Iraq with Columbia City Rotary members.

Last year, Fahl served as a JAG in Iraq with the National Guard’s 76^th Infantry Brigade, an experience that brought him face to face with an often unseen enemy and with America’s 21^st Century soldiers.

Fahl’s pre-mobility training, prior to being sent overseas, included important convoy logistics, search and attack and an explanation of third world war tactics.

“They had us out in the woods,” Fahl said. “But I looked all over and I did not see any woods in Iraq.”

“We learned a lot about the techniques the enemy was using, including the use of IEDs (roadside bombs),” Fahl said. “It’s a unique challenge to face an enemy that won’t face you.”

But the American soldier, like the scores of soldiers in wars since our country began, utilizes skill and ingenuity to prevail.

“The American soldier is a very adaptive, creative soldier,” Fahl said, relating stories of the young men and women who are fighting today who’ve helped create tools that save lives on the battlefield each day. He spoke of the 22-year-old soldier who created the Rhino, a arm-like device with coolant, that reaches out front the front of a vehicle to trip a roadside bomb, saving the military vehicle and its occupants.

The sense of ingenuity and creative-thinking is necessary each day because, according to Fahl, the enemy is using those same skills. “Iran supplies terrorists with many of their weapons,” he said. “They are very industrious people who use crude and random items to create weapons. “Most of the explosives they have – we sold to them to my knowledge,” he said of deals that were made decades ago.

Fahl left for Kuwait on a C130,  with a hammock for a seat and no lights inside. He landed an hour north of Iraq and was sent to provide convoy security.

In Iraq, the sand and dust hung in the air much like talcum powder. “It would get into everything and it hung in the air like fog,” he said. The soldiers lived in containerized housing units much like semi-trailers, but furnished.

“Really, they were pretty comfortable compared to the tents in Kuwait,” he said.

As expected, they found themselves in various scrapes and trouble. His group worked through the night because it was safer for convoys to travel in the dark. Fahl said the enemy relies primarily on sight using cell phones and they do not have much in the way of night vision technology.

“We’d be rolling out each day and not knowing what was going to happen that night,” Fahl said. Prayer, he said, was an important part of each day – praying together as they left before each mission.

“We felt like it was a tough job, but that we were going to get it done,” he said.

Fahl’s biggest surprise overseas was the sheer enormity of the base in Balad and the numbers of troops he saw there. The Iraqi people he met were very much like anyone living near an Army base, Fahl said.

“They are very reliant on the base in the Iraqi Based Industrial Zone. It has had a huge impact on their economy,” he said. “For them, this is an exciting time. They didn’t ask a lot from their government – just not to be taken from their families, from their homes or to be beaten and killed in the night.”

In his experience in Iraq, most of the enemies he encountered were paid to fight the troops and were not members of religious extremist groups.

Regardless of what the future holds in Iraq, Fahl believes the US will always have a presence there.

“A lot of American troops are dialing down there and you see more contractors there to work,” he said.

When Fahl returned home, he said he was struck by the color of everything around him – the vibrance of American life.

“Boy, when I got home and saw the brilliance and color around me,” he said, smiling.

 “When I hear news about the doom and gloom – that’s just not the country I’m seeing coming back home,” Fahl said.

After nine months without rain, he’s thrilled to have the experience of a rainy day and after 18 months of desert sand, he was actually excited to watch the shades of green appear on the lawn and in the trees of his Columbia City home this spring. He relished the opportunity to cut the grass for the first time – his first opportunity to mow his lawn in 18 months.

“I feel so proud to have served my country and to have served with the others in my unit,” Fahl said. “It’s been a really great experience to have the welcome we had when we came back.”

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The American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 98 in Columbia City has an unclaimed scholarship available. 

To qualify for the $500 scholarship, the student must have just graduated from Columbia City High School (or Whitley County home school) and be a direct descendent of a veteran that served during wartime or a dependant of an active military member.  The student must attend a certified college in the fall.

Applications must be received for review at the next regular membership meeting, July 13, 2009.  

To obtain information to apply for the scholarship you may contact Esther Smith, Education Chairman at esden40@yahoo.com or call 213-3100.

Information on all American Legion programs is available online at www.legion-aux.org

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The American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 98 in Columbia City has an unclaimed scholarship available. 

To qualify for the $500 scholarship, the student must have just graduated from Columbia City High School (or Whitley County home school) and be a direct descendent of a veteran that served during wartime or a dependant of an active military member.  The student must attend a certified college in the fall.

Applications must be received for review at the next regular membership meeting, July 13, 2009.  

To obtain information to apply for the scholarship you may contact Esther Smith, Education Chairman at esden40@yahoo.com or call 213-3100.

Information on all American Legion programs is available online at www.legion-aux.org

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(Talk of the Town photo by Dr. John Meier) The Columbia City Rotary club supported the Whitley County YMCA's recent Strong Kids Campaign with a donation of $500. The funds were raised through dues and fines collected during the month of April. Above, from left is YMCA executive director and Rotarian Erica Miller, Rotarian Ryan Wilson, YMCA board member and Rotarian Jennifer Zartman Romano, Rotarian Jacie Worrick, Rotarian Candice Yeakle, Rotarian Dr. Renel Alarie and Rotarian Lisa Harris.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Dr. John Meier) The Columbia City Rotary club supported the Whitley County YMCA's recent Strong Kids Campaign with a donation of $500. The funds were raised through dues and fines collected during the month of April. Above, from left is YMCA executive director and Rotarian Erica Miller, Rotarian Ryan Wilson, YMCA board member and Rotarian Jennifer Zartman Romano, Rotarian Jacie Worrick, Rotarian Candice Yeakle, Rotarian Dr. Renel Alarie and Rotarian Lisa Harris.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided) Students of Lois Ellen's Dance School and The Twilight Cloggers will present their annual recital on May 30 at Indian Springs Middle School. Above, a group dancers prepares for their upcoming recital. 

By Misty Oliver

The students of Lois Ellen’s Dance School and The Twilight Cloggers will present their annual dance recital. This year, the program is entitled “Hollywood Nights.” The event is planned for Saturday, May 30, 2009, at 7 p.m. and will be held at Indian Springs Middle School in the Carver Center.

Students range in age from age 3 through adult. The community is invited to attend and prepare to be entertained. Tickets are $8 for adults, $5 for guests ages 5-12 and children age 4 and under may attend for free.

For more information about the event or to inquire about dance classes, contact instructor Lois Brandenburg at 244-5353.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided) Students of Lois Ellen's Dance School and The Twilight Cloggers will present their annual recital on May 30 at Indian Springs Middle School. Above, a group dancers prepares for their upcoming recital. 

By Misty Oliver

The students of Lois Ellen’s Dance School and The Twilight Cloggers will present their annual dance recital. This year, the program is entitled “Hollywood Nights.” The event is planned for Saturday, May 30, 2009, at 7 p.m. and will be held at Indian Springs Middle School in the Carver Center.

Students range in age from age 3 through adult. The community is invited to attend and prepare to be entertained. Tickets are $8 for adults, $5 for guests ages 5-12 and children age 4 and under may attend for free.

For more information about the event or to inquire about dance classes, contact instructor Lois Brandenburg at 244-5353.

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By Amanda Banks

Throughout the month of June, the American Red Cross will participate in the statewide Fallen Officer Blood Drive campaign. 

This is the third year for the campaign in which the American Red Cross will host blood drives across the state of Indiana to honor those who serve and protect our communities.

In Whitley County, observance of this special blood drive is planned for Monday, June 1, from 2 p.m. until 7 p.m. at City Hall, located at 112 S. Chauncey St. in Columbia City. This blood drive is sponsored by City Hall and the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department.

Janice Starnes, whose husband Sergeant Daniel Starnes was killed in the line of duty in 2001, now organizes the annual Indiana Fallen Officer Blood Drive.  She has high hopes for community participation in this year’s campaign. 

“In 2008, we successfully held a Fallen Office blood drive in every county in the state.  I hope to repeat that achievement this year and collect over 5,000 pints of blood,” said Starnes.

Starnes, along with many other fallen officer survivors, takes great pride in the Fallen Office Blood Drive.

“The blood drive campaign honors the sacrifices made by our fallen officers and helps ensure that the blood supply is strong, just like our officers,” Starnes said.

Help honor the sacrifices made by fallen officers as well as those who continue to protect and serve in their communities by donating blood at the following blood drive.  All presenting donors will be entered into a regional June drawing for a grill package worth $1,000.  The package includes a $500 Lowe’s gift card for the purchase of a grill and a $500 gift certificate to Omaha Steaks.

Please call 248-5121, option 2, to schedule your blood donation appointment. 

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By Amanda Banks

Throughout the month of June, the American Red Cross will participate in the statewide Fallen Officer Blood Drive campaign. 

This is the third year for the campaign in which the American Red Cross will host blood drives across the state of Indiana to honor those who serve and protect our communities.

In Whitley County, observance of this special blood drive is planned for Monday, June 1, from 2 p.m. until 7 p.m. at City Hall, located at 112 S. Chauncey St. in Columbia City. This blood drive is sponsored by City Hall and the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department.

Janice Starnes, whose husband Sergeant Daniel Starnes was killed in the line of duty in 2001, now organizes the annual Indiana Fallen Officer Blood Drive.  She has high hopes for community participation in this year’s campaign. 

“In 2008, we successfully held a Fallen Office blood drive in every county in the state.  I hope to repeat that achievement this year and collect over 5,000 pints of blood,” said Starnes.

Starnes, along with many other fallen officer survivors, takes great pride in the Fallen Office Blood Drive.

“The blood drive campaign honors the sacrifices made by our fallen officers and helps ensure that the blood supply is strong, just like our officers,” Starnes said.

Help honor the sacrifices made by fallen officers as well as those who continue to protect and serve in their communities by donating blood at the following blood drive.  All presenting donors will be entered into a regional June drawing for a grill package worth $1,000.  The package includes a $500 Lowe’s gift card for the purchase of a grill and a $500 gift certificate to Omaha Steaks.

Please call 248-5121, option 2, to schedule your blood donation appointment. 

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(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Dixie Kessler's classmates at Mary Raber Elementary School, above, were eager to show how much they raised to support the Donovan Kessler Little Swimmers Fund, a fund created at the Whitley County Community Foundation in memory of Kessler's brother. Below, on Friday, Kessler's grandmothers joined her at school to thank her classmates for their gift. Seated from left, are classmates Jackson Acres, Dixie Kessler, Keiran Gilles and Sophia Hatcher and standing, from left, is Tammy Azar, Tammie Kessler and Mrs. Anglin, first grade teacher at Mary Raber School. Beneath, Kessler gets a snuggle from her proud grandmothers. At bottom, proud of their fundraising skills, from left is Sophia Hatcher, Dixie Kessler, Keiran Gilles and Jackson Acres.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Every year, first graders in Mrs. Anglin’s class at Mary Raber Elementary School enjoy an early lesson in philanthropy.

Throughout the year, they save up their pennies, nickels and dimes to support a non-profit agency in the community. Presentations are given on various organizations that students pick one to support.

“Every year I do a community service project in my classroom,” said first grade teacher Pam Anglin. “We brainstorm about charities and how to make our money grow in the community.”

Sitting and listening to these presentations, little Dixie Kessler thought hard about a cause very near and dear to her heart.

Standing before her classmates, Kessler spoke from her heart about the Donovan Kessler Little Swimmers Fund at the Whitley County Community Foundation.

“She talked about the Foundation and what they did,” Anglin said. She also talked about how the fund was set up in memory of her brother who drowned in a swimming pool and how the fund pays for swimming lessons so that young children can learn to swim.

Kessler’s story had great meaning for her classmates and they immediately rallied in support of her and in support of the Donovan Kessler Little Swimmers Fund.

“We talked about it and this is what they decided they wanted to do,” Anglin said. Over the course of the year, a few cents at a time, they managed to fill the fundraising jar and then began collecting money in a plastic bag. The coins were from students and a few Mary Raber teachers supported their fundraising with cash donations.

Months later, Anglin and her students were elated to see they’d raised much more than prior classes ever dreamed of.

“We don’t know for sure how much we have yet, but it is over $60,” Anglin said as the enthusiastic room buzzed with excitement Friday afternoon when Kesslers’ grandmothers, Tammy Azar and Tammie Kessler, visited the classroom to personally thank the children for their donation to the fund.

Wearing matching Donovan Kessler Little Swimmers Fund t-shirts, the grandmothers beamed with pride in their granddaughter and in the good that will be accomplished with the funds raised in her classroom.

The students were equally proud.

“I’m really happy,” Dixie Kessler said, hoisting the full jar of coins up for a closer look, classmates poised nearby.

“I feel really proud for Dixie,” said classmate Sophia Hatcher.

“This is just a fabulous thing,” said Anglin of the student’s support for their classmate and her cause. “It has been absolutely amazing.”

The donation will soon be presented to the Whitley County Community Foundation where it will be used to fund swimming lessons for children under age 5 who cannot afford them through the Whitley County Family YMCA.

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(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Dixie Kessler's classmates at Mary Raber Elementary School, above, were eager to show how much they raised to support the Donovan Kessler Little Swimmers Fund, a fund created at the Whitley County Community Foundation in memory of Kessler's brother. Below, on Friday, Kessler's grandmothers joined her at school to thank her classmates for their gift. Seated from left, are classmates Jackson Acres, Dixie Kessler, Keiran Gilles and Sophia Hatcher and standing, from left, is Tammy Azar, Tammie Kessler and Mrs. Anglin, first grade teacher at Mary Raber School. Beneath, Kessler gets a snuggle from her proud grandmothers. At bottom, proud of their fundraising skills, from left is Sophia Hatcher, Dixie Kessler, Keiran Gilles and Jackson Acres.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Every year, first graders in Mrs. Anglin’s class at Mary Raber Elementary School enjoy an early lesson in philanthropy.

Throughout the year, they save up their pennies, nickels and dimes to support a non-profit agency in the community. Presentations are given on various organizations that students pick one to support.

“Every year I do a community service project in my classroom,” said first grade teacher Pam Anglin. “We brainstorm about charities and how to make our money grow in the community.”

Sitting and listening to these presentations, little Dixie Kessler thought hard about a cause very near and dear to her heart.

Standing before her classmates, Kessler spoke from her heart about the Donovan Kessler Little Swimmers Fund at the Whitley County Community Foundation.

“She talked about the Foundation and what they did,” Anglin said. She also talked about how the fund was set up in memory of her brother who drowned in a swimming pool and how the fund pays for swimming lessons so that young children can learn to swim.

Kessler’s story had great meaning for her classmates and they immediately rallied in support of her and in support of the Donovan Kessler Little Swimmers Fund.

“We talked about it and this is what they decided they wanted to do,” Anglin said. Over the course of the year, a few cents at a time, they managed to fill the fundraising jar and then began collecting money in a plastic bag. The coins were from students and a few Mary Raber teachers supported their fundraising with cash donations.

Months later, Anglin and her students were elated to see they’d raised much more than prior classes ever dreamed of.

“We don’t know for sure how much we have yet, but it is over $60,” Anglin said as the enthusiastic room buzzed with excitement Friday afternoon when Kesslers’ grandmothers, Tammy Azar and Tammie Kessler, visited the classroom to personally thank the children for their donation to the fund.

Wearing matching Donovan Kessler Little Swimmers Fund t-shirts, the grandmothers beamed with pride in their granddaughter and in the good that will be accomplished with the funds raised in her classroom.

The students were equally proud.

“I’m really happy,” Dixie Kessler said, hoisting the full jar of coins up for a closer look, classmates poised nearby.

“I feel really proud for Dixie,” said classmate Sophia Hatcher.

“This is just a fabulous thing,” said Anglin of the student’s support for their classmate and her cause. “It has been absolutely amazing.”

The donation will soon be presented to the Whitley County Community Foundation where it will be used to fund swimming lessons for children under age 5 who cannot afford them through the Whitley County Family YMCA.

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(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)  Plans are underway for Interfaith Mission's The Lighthouse to host Elegant Evening on the Lake at Loon Lake again this year. Above, last year, a guests enjoyed dinner along the scenic shores of Loon Lake.

Article Provided

Tickets are now available for the Elegant Evening Progressive Dinner on Loon Lake, Saturday, July 25, 2009. Ticket holders will set sail for dinner at 4 p.m. or 6 p.m.

Your ticket includes hors d’ oeuvres, dinner, dessert and refreshments along the quiet shores of Loon Lake. Relax on a pontoon ride around Loon Lake as you enjoy this wonderful progressive meal hosted by Loon Lake residents.

Tickets are now available for $35 per person at The Lighthouse or by calling 244-5266. The Columbia City Lighthouse Shelter is located at 500 W. Business 30, Columbia City.  

Hurry purchase your ticket now, seating is limited! Tickets are on sale until July 20, 2009, or until sold out.

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(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)  Plans are underway for Interfaith Mission's The Lighthouse to host Elegant Evening on the Lake at Loon Lake again this year. Above, last year, a guests enjoyed dinner along the scenic shores of Loon Lake.

Article Provided

Tickets are now available for the Elegant Evening Progressive Dinner on Loon Lake, Saturday, July 25, 2009. Ticket holders will set sail for dinner at 4 p.m. or 6 p.m.

Your ticket includes hors d’ oeuvres, dinner, dessert and refreshments along the quiet shores of Loon Lake. Relax on a pontoon ride around Loon Lake as you enjoy this wonderful progressive meal hosted by Loon Lake residents.

Tickets are now available for $35 per person at The Lighthouse or by calling 244-5266. The Columbia City Lighthouse Shelter is located at 500 W. Business 30, Columbia City.  

Hurry purchase your ticket now, seating is limited! Tickets are on sale until July 20, 2009, or until sold out.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

In hopes of brightening the day for local senior citizens, a group of anonymous volunteers will be handing out packages of cookies and sheet cake on Saturday morning from 10-11 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church on behalf of the Salvation Army of Whitley County.

According to Pat Mossburg, Salvation Army executive director, the group, who wishes to do this anonymously, will be baking up a storm – to prepare care packages of baked goods for Whitley County’s senior citizens.

Seniors are asked to drive up in front of the church on Jackson Street at Chauncey Street and they will be handed a care package – they do not even need to leave their vehicle.

You might want to arrive early, Mossburg said, because when they’re gone, they’re gone!

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

In hopes of brightening the day for local senior citizens, a group of anonymous volunteers will be handing out packages of cookies and sheet cake on Saturday morning from 10-11 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church on behalf of the Salvation Army of Whitley County.

According to Pat Mossburg, Salvation Army executive director, the group, who wishes to do this anonymously, will be baking up a storm – to prepare care packages of baked goods for Whitley County’s senior citizens.

Seniors are asked to drive up in front of the church on Jackson Street at Chauncey Street and they will be handed a care package – they do not even need to leave their vehicle.

You might want to arrive early, Mossburg said, because when they’re gone, they’re gone!

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If you haven’t checked out our FREE Talk of the Town classified section – you ought to! We’re continually adding new categories and our readers who use the classifieds have had great success finding things they were looking for and selling items they no longer use.

Today, we added a new category called 4-H where you can post your ads for 4-H animals, buy, sell or trade supplies or other items related to the 4-H Fair – or advertise any fundraisers you’re doing during the fair.

We also offer a homegrown produce and meats section where you can advertise locally grown items for sale as well.

To place an ad, simply click the black, white and pink "Free Ad" button on the tool bar at right. Talk of the Town is pleased to offer Whitley County's online market place!

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If you haven’t checked out our FREE Talk of the Town classified section – you ought to! We’re continually adding new categories and our readers who use the classifieds have had great success finding things they were looking for and selling items they no longer use.

Today, we added a new category called 4-H where you can post your ads for 4-H animals, buy, sell or trade supplies or other items related to the 4-H Fair – or advertise any fundraisers you’re doing during the fair.

We also offer a homegrown produce and meats section where you can advertise locally grown items for sale as well.

To place an ad, simply click the black, white and pink "Free Ad" button on the tool bar at right. Talk of the Town is pleased to offer Whitley County's online market place!

Posted by jennifer321 at 07:34 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

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Venture Scouts are a branch of Boy Scouts for boys and girls ages 14-21. Venture Crews usually focus on a specific activity or interest. Locally, the Venture Scouts enjoy camping and outdoor stuff.
A new Venture Crew is in the process of forming in the center of Whitley County. They will be hosting an open house on Wednesday, May 27, 2009, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at The Center, located in downtown Columbia City at Market and Chauncey Streets. Anyone interested can come and find out about joining Venturing. Open house plans include a bb gun range, games, and some hot dogs and marshmallows to roast out back.

For additional information, contact Keith Roman at 260.229.7840

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Venture Scouts are a branch of Boy Scouts for boys and girls ages 14-21. Venture Crews usually focus on a specific activity or interest. Locally, the Venture Scouts enjoy camping and outdoor stuff.
A new Venture Crew is in the process of forming in the center of Whitley County. They will be hosting an open house on Wednesday, May 27, 2009, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at The Center, located in downtown Columbia City at Market and Chauncey Streets. Anyone interested can come and find out about joining Venturing. Open house plans include a bb gun range, games, and some hot dogs and marshmallows to roast out back.

For additional information, contact Keith Roman at 260.229.7840

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(Talk of the Town photo by Kelley Sheiss) The Sheiss family awoke to find two unexpected – and very hungry – guests at the door this morning. These two pals, above, appear to either be lost or were abandoned. According to Sheiss, both are very well-behaved and see to know basic commands. The black one is wearing a collar and appear to be coonhound mixes. If anyone knows of their home -- or would like to give them one, please hurry and call Kelley Sheiss at 799-4045.  “We already have enough animals,” Sheiss said.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Kelley Sheiss) The Sheiss family awoke to find two unexpected – and very hungry – guests at the door this morning. These two pals, above, appear to either be lost or were abandoned. According to Sheiss, both are very well-behaved and see to know basic commands. The black one is wearing a collar and appear to be coonhound mixes. If anyone knows of their home -- or would like to give them one, please hurry and call Kelley Sheiss at 799-4045.  “We already have enough animals,” Sheiss said.

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(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, Eagle Quest Church on SR 109 will become the new home of the Salvation Army of Whitley County on June 2. Below, at top, the church's distinctive sign along SR 109. Beneath, from left, Salvation Army director Pat Mossburg, Eagle Quest Church Pastor Rick Pride and Salvation Army board member Steve Beck take a look the space they'll be sharing. At bottom, Pride and Mossburg share a laugh in Mossburg's new office.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

The past few weeks have been emotional ones for Pat Mossburg, unsure whether the organization she leads to help our community’s needy might, itself, become homeless.

When First Presbyterian Church, where the Salvation Army is currently housed, announced they would be closing, Mossburg and the Salvation Army board of directors met and began discussion options for the future. The might have been able to stay at the church – but without the support of several other organizations joining them there, they could not have afforded the utilities alone.

Mossburg believes that every dollar that can go into the community should go into the community, so she was hopeful somewhere, someone might again welcome the opportunity to share space with the organization that does such good with so little means.

On Wednesday, that dream was officially realized.

Pastor Rick Pride of Eagle Quest Church, located at 1120 North SR 109, announced that the doors of the church have been opened to the Salvation Army.

An answer to why seems apparent from a scripture printed in the church’s brochure, “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person fails, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble,” it says in Ecclesiastes 4:9-10.

Real trouble is right. Mossburg knew the Salvation Army may need to find a new home early this winter, but it wasn’t until the news of the church’s closure became public that she really began to worry.

Salvation Army board member Steve Beck immediately approached Pride and asked if his church might have space for the Salvation Army. “I’d been to special events they had before and thought it would be a good place to be,” Beck said.

“Why not,” Pride said. With the support of his congregation, he told Beck they did have a place for the Salvation Army to call home.

“I said it was a perfect marriage of two ministries in our community,” Pride said. “(The congregation) is very excited and very enthusiastic about the opportunity to have them here.”

“It’s an opportunity for us to partner together to help people in the community,” Pride said. “It’s an opportunity for us to really work together – and it can do nothing but produce good results.”

The Salvation Army’s moving day is slated for June 2 and they will be closed that day, reopening on June 3 at the new location.

Inside Eagle Quest Church, a fresh coat of cheerful yellow paint is on the wall of the Salvation Army’s new office. Light shone through a big window with one pane of green glass in the lower right corner. Looking around at the progress, Pride, Mossburg and Beck were all beeming Wednesday afternoon.

Mossburg said the ability to offer a private location to meet with clients is appealing, as is the fact it is on the main level so that handicapped clients will have easy access to the Salvation Army. Other benefits include a nearby children’s area where a parent can allow their child to play while they talk with Mossburg.

In the future, Mossburg is eager to begin thinking about plans for growth at the new location – primarily in programs and enhanced community involvement. She’s also hoping to become active in some of the activities the church already has going on.

“I’m hoping to get more kids involved and maybe together we can occasionally touch more hearts in the community with random acts of kindness,” Mossburg said.

For now, though, she’s focused on the move and getting to know the members of Eagle Quest Church who have so warmly opened their doors to her. And her mind is still on those she’ll miss at First Presbyterian Church.

“I just want everyone to know how much I appreciate what First Presbyterian Church did for me by allowing Salvation Army to have a home there for awhile,” she said. “I care deeply about them.”

Mossburg has one need at the new location: a small computer desk or table – roughly just 2 foot by two foot. At the new location, she’s hoping to set up a small station where people can access the computer to sign up for services online, search for jobs and access information. If you have such a table or desk, call Mossburg at 248-1711.

The Salvation Army’s hours will be the same for now at the new location – open Monday-Thursday from 1:30-4:30 p.m. each day.

Sometime in June, the community will be invited to see the Salvation Army’s new location with a “Donuts & Dedication” event. Talk of the Town will share information about that event as soon as they are available.

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(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, Eagle Quest Church on SR 109 will become the new home of the Salvation Army of Whitley County on June 2. Below, at top, the church's distinctive sign along SR 109. Beneath, from left, Salvation Army director Pat Mossburg, Eagle Quest Church Pastor Rick Pride and Salvation Army board member Steve Beck take a look the space they'll be sharing. At bottom, Pride and Mossburg share a laugh in Mossburg's new office.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

The past few weeks have been emotional ones for Pat Mossburg, unsure whether the organization she leads to help our community’s needy might, itself, become homeless.

When First Presbyterian Church, where the Salvation Army is currently housed, announced they would be closing, Mossburg and the Salvation Army board of directors met and began discussion options for the future. The might have been able to stay at the church – but without the support of several other organizations joining them there, they could not have afforded the utilities alone.

Mossburg believes that every dollar that can go into the community should go into the community, so she was hopeful somewhere, someone might again welcome the opportunity to share space with the organization that does such good with so little means.

On Wednesday, that dream was officially realized.

Pastor Rick Pride of Eagle Quest Church, located at 1120 North SR 109, announced that the doors of the church have been opened to the Salvation Army.

An answer to why seems apparent from a scripture printed in the church’s brochure, “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person fails, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble,” it says in Ecclesiastes 4:9-10.

Real trouble is right. Mossburg knew the Salvation Army may need to find a new home early this winter, but it wasn’t until the news of the church’s closure became public that she really began to worry.

Salvation Army board member Steve Beck immediately approached Pride and asked if his church might have space for the Salvation Army. “I’d been to special events they had before and thought it would be a good place to be,” Beck said.

“Why not,” Pride said. With the support of his congregation, he told Beck they did have a place for the Salvation Army to call home.

“I said it was a perfect marriage of two ministries in our community,” Pride said. “(The congregation) is very excited and very enthusiastic about the opportunity to have them here.”

“It’s an opportunity for us to partner together to help people in the community,” Pride said. “It’s an opportunity for us to really work together – and it can do nothing but produce good results.”

The Salvation Army’s moving day is slated for June 2 and they will be closed that day, reopening on June 3 at the new location.

Inside Eagle Quest Church, a fresh coat of cheerful yellow paint is on the wall of the Salvation Army’s new office. Light shone through a big window with one pane of green glass in the lower right corner. Looking around at the progress, Pride, Mossburg and Beck were all beeming Wednesday afternoon.

Mossburg said the ability to offer a private location to meet with clients is appealing, as is the fact it is on the main level so that handicapped clients will have easy access to the Salvation Army. Other benefits include a nearby children’s area where a parent can allow their child to play while they talk with Mossburg.

In the future, Mossburg is eager to begin thinking about plans for growth at the new location – primarily in programs and enhanced community involvement. She’s also hoping to become active in some of the activities the church already has going on.

“I’m hoping to get more kids involved and maybe together we can occasionally touch more hearts in the community with random acts of kindness,” Mossburg said.

For now, though, she’s focused on the move and getting to know the members of Eagle Quest Church who have so warmly opened their doors to her. And her mind is still on those she’ll miss at First Presbyterian Church.

“I just want everyone to know how much I appreciate what First Presbyterian Church did for me by allowing Salvation Army to have a home there for awhile,” she said. “I care deeply about them.”

Mossburg has one need at the new location: a small computer desk or table – roughly just 2 foot by two foot. At the new location, she’s hoping to set up a small station where people can access the computer to sign up for services online, search for jobs and access information. If you have such a table or desk, call Mossburg at 248-1711.

The Salvation Army’s hours will be the same for now at the new location – open Monday-Thursday from 1:30-4:30 p.m. each day.

Sometime in June, the community will be invited to see the Salvation Army’s new location with a “Donuts & Dedication” event. Talk of the Town will share information about that event as soon as they are available.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Piles are already forming in garages and behind sheds as residents prepare for the annual city wide clean up days in Columbia City.

While some are ready to clear out – others are hoping to clean up with excellent finds…after all one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.

Columbia City’s clean up dates are June 13 for the west side of Columbia City and June 20 for the east side of Columbia City. These dates are a little later this year that residents are typically accustomed to.

If you wish to throw out certain items, including tires, stoves, washing machines, hot water heaters, air conditioners, freezers or any appliance with Freon, you will need to make a visit to the Columbia City Utilities office in City Hall to pay a fee. Fees typically range between $1-$10 per item to have these items removed.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Piles are already forming in garages and behind sheds as residents prepare for the annual city wide clean up days in Columbia City.

While some are ready to clear out – others are hoping to clean up with excellent finds…after all one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.

Columbia City’s clean up dates are June 13 for the west side of Columbia City and June 20 for the east side of Columbia City. These dates are a little later this year that residents are typically accustomed to.

If you wish to throw out certain items, including tires, stoves, washing machines, hot water heaters, air conditioners, freezers or any appliance with Freon, you will need to make a visit to the Columbia City Utilities office in City Hall to pay a fee. Fees typically range between $1-$10 per item to have these items removed.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided) Scot Sauers, left, was recently awarded a $500 scholarship from the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association. He is shown above in 2008 receiving the same award with Whitley County Sheriff Mark Hodges.

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Rural Whitley County resident Scot Sauers has been awarded a $500 scholarship from the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association.  Sauers recently finished his junior year at Indiana State University where he majors in criminology/criminal justice. 

This is the second year Sauers has been a recipient of this award.

Sauers was unable to have his photo taken with the award this year since he is now working on an internship with Interpol in Washington, DC for the summer. 

Interpol, whose full name is the International Criminal Police Organization, was established in 1923 and currently serves 187 countries.  Interpol serves as a contact point for world-wide criminal investigations such as terrorism, organized crime, drug trafficking and white-collar crime.

Sauers is the son of Steve Sauers and Tam Mitchell, both of rural Whitley County.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided) Scot Sauers, left, was recently awarded a $500 scholarship from the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association. He is shown above in 2008 receiving the same award with Whitley County Sheriff Mark Hodges.

Article provided

Rural Whitley County resident Scot Sauers has been awarded a $500 scholarship from the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association.  Sauers recently finished his junior year at Indiana State University where he majors in criminology/criminal justice. 

This is the second year Sauers has been a recipient of this award.

Sauers was unable to have his photo taken with the award this year since he is now working on an internship with Interpol in Washington, DC for the summer. 

Interpol, whose full name is the International Criminal Police Organization, was established in 1923 and currently serves 187 countries.  Interpol serves as a contact point for world-wide criminal investigations such as terrorism, organized crime, drug trafficking and white-collar crime.

Sauers is the son of Steve Sauers and Tam Mitchell, both of rural Whitley County.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

An assortment of issues was brought before the Whitley County Consolidated School board Tuesday evening – ranging from the approval of text book fees to appointing a new WCCS employee to the Camp Whitley board of directors.

The school board voted unanimously to approve text book fees for 2009-2010.

Also up for discussion was the purchase of a multipurpose school bus for the system. The school system had budgeted $83,000 for the purchase, but bids came in much lower. The total cost, once the vehicle is retrofitted to meeting WCCS standards, is expected to be $53,718. The board approved the expenditure.

The board also approved the 2009-2010 calendar, including two-hour delays and several built-in makeup days at the end of the year. The last day of school, weather-permitting, would be May 26, 2010. The board discussed whether the end dates of trimesters might be able to be changed in the event of continued periods of bad weather. The WCCS superintendent, Dr. Laura Huffman, has the authority to make these changes if necessary during the year. On member, upon looking at the proposed calendar, voiced concern that Good Friday was a listed as a holiday and Martin Luther King Day was not saying she felt that in approving a calendar like that, the board was “just one lawsuit away” from trouble and that she would not vote in favor of such a calendar if it were presented next year.

A copy of the Indian Spring Middle School athletic handbook was provided to each board member for review and approval, encouraging a discussion among board members about whether there ought to be consistency between the ISMS and Columbia City High School athletic handbooks. Huffman described the ISMS handbook which was recently finished as, “succinct and to-the-point.” Board member Stan Meyer was particularly pleased with the handbook. After many years as a physical education teacher, he noted that in the past most of what was in the handbook was verbal – but it was nice to see it all in writing. “This is a really good thing,” he said.

The board was asked to find a WCCS representative to serve on the board of Camp Whitley. The school system’s representative, Paula Langeloh, resigned from the board recently. The board authorized the superintendent to find a replacement from among the corporation’s staff to serve on the Camp Whitley board.

Attorney Tim Bloom discussed the ongoing litigation involving former WCCS employee Jane Bustos. Bustos was employed by the WCCS until 2007, after which time she sued the corporation for what she alleged to be unequal pay and discrimination, claiming she was owed a pay structure similar to an elementary school principal. A hearing was held May 15 in Federal court and a settlement was negotiated in the amount of $62,500 of which $5,000 will be paid by WCCS and the remainder by insurance.

“A settlement has tentatively been accepted by the claimant,” Bloom said. “The only requirement is our approval to make this all go away.” The board unanimously approved the settlement with Bustos.

CCHS principal Gregg Goewert commended the FFA State Champion Livestock team and their coaches, Greg Rupert and Jesse Kimmell.

Board member Deb Hiss lauded the show choir students who presented the annual “Fantacular” show last weekend. “We have absolutely tremendous talent in our high school,” Hiss said.

The board further extended congratulations to all CCHS students who were recognized in the Honors Convocation on Monday night.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

An assortment of issues was brought before the Whitley County Consolidated School board Tuesday evening – ranging from the approval of text book fees to appointing a new WCCS employee to the Camp Whitley board of directors.

The school board voted unanimously to approve text book fees for 2009-2010.

Also up for discussion was the purchase of a multipurpose school bus for the system. The school system had budgeted $83,000 for the purchase, but bids came in much lower. The total cost, once the vehicle is retrofitted to meeting WCCS standards, is expected to be $53,718. The board approved the expenditure.

The board also approved the 2009-2010 calendar, including two-hour delays and several built-in makeup days at the end of the year. The last day of school, weather-permitting, would be May 26, 2010. The board discussed whether the end dates of trimesters might be able to be changed in the event of continued periods of bad weather. The WCCS superintendent, Dr. Laura Huffman, has the authority to make these changes if necessary during the year. On member, upon looking at the proposed calendar, voiced concern that Good Friday was a listed as a holiday and Martin Luther King Day was not saying she felt that in approving a calendar like that, the board was “just one lawsuit away” from trouble and that she would not vote in favor of such a calendar if it were presented next year.

A copy of the Indian Spring Middle School athletic handbook was provided to each board member for review and approval, encouraging a discussion among board members about whether there ought to be consistency between the ISMS and Columbia City High School athletic handbooks. Huffman described the ISMS handbook which was recently finished as, “succinct and to-the-point.” Board member Stan Meyer was particularly pleased with the handbook. After many years as a physical education teacher, he noted that in the past most of what was in the handbook was verbal – but it was nice to see it all in writing. “This is a really good thing,” he said.

The board was asked to find a WCCS representative to serve on the board of Camp Whitley. The school system’s representative, Paula Langeloh, resigned from the board recently. The board authorized the superintendent to find a replacement from among the corporation’s staff to serve on the Camp Whitley board.

Attorney Tim Bloom discussed the ongoing litigation involving former WCCS employee Jane Bustos. Bustos was employed by the WCCS until 2007, after which time she sued the corporation for what she alleged to be unequal pay and discrimination, claiming she was owed a pay structure similar to an elementary school principal. A hearing was held May 15 in Federal court and a settlement was negotiated in the amount of $62,500 of which $5,000 will be paid by WCCS and the remainder by insurance.

“A settlement has tentatively been accepted by the claimant,” Bloom said. “The only requirement is our approval to make this all go away.” The board unanimously approved the settlement with Bustos.

CCHS principal Gregg Goewert commended the FFA State Champion Livestock team and their coaches, Greg Rupert and Jesse Kimmell.

Board member Deb Hiss lauded the show choir students who presented the annual “Fantacular” show last weekend. “We have absolutely tremendous talent in our high school,” Hiss said.

The board further extended congratulations to all CCHS students who were recognized in the Honors Convocation on Monday night.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

What began as a rumor resulted in a larger than expected crowd at the Tuesday evening Whitley County Consolidated School board meeting where parents and students alike came forth asking for answers.

The concern: whether the school system plans to replace the middle school and high school band director positions with just one full-time instructor who would split both responsibilities.

Many of the students and parents in attendance addressed the board directly with their concerns and questions about the future of the Columbia City High School and Indian Springs Middle School band programs.

Nicole Yingst, a sophomore who plays clarinet in the band, said she was concerned about what impact this might have on the music department as a whole. Yingst outlined the many responsibilities for which a band director is accountable and said, “These activities would be most likely lost or not done to their fullest potential if there were one person to oversee everything.”

“I plead that you consider what it is like to lose the one thing you want the most,” Yingst said, urging the school board to keep the program as is. She also asked for an end to the countless rumors she’s heard about the fate of the music program at the middle school and high school levels.

 “Rumors are rampant,” a parent said, adding that he knows for a fact that the current band director, Mr. Criss, is leaving, but has heard numerous rumors about what will happen when the time comes to fill that position. “This rumor has been floating around creating anguish and fear. A teacher stretched between two schools cannot do justice to either.”

Brenda Marty, a band booster officer and parent of two sons in band, noted that four out of the top 12 students in the CCHS Class of 2009 have been involved in band. Marty also said that the band has raised $20,000 this year for their own expenses and secured another $5,000 through the Whitley County Community Foundation. She said she was afraid that instability in the program would not give a good message to the community about donating to their cause and asked the board “to make decisions as if they affected your child.”

Lisa Hensler asked the board to consider the way the bands’ fundraising programs have a positive impact on the local business community. All organizations that participate in their fundraising card enjoy the benefit of advertising and customers – all of which might be on the line if the band program ceased to exist. She also spoke of the band members and their families who are actively involved in community events and activities.

“This is not a sit in the classroom group of children,” Hensler said, noting the many parades, community concerts and other activities the band participates in.

Gina Kissinger estimated the cost of a band director at approximately $23,000 and compared the impact of a band director on young musicians to role of a coach in athletics. “Who is it that plays your school song, that gets people fired up, that plays for your teams,” she asked.

A father, Bruce Hazelet, said that although all three of his children are athletes, it was the possible loss of the band program that caused great upset in their household. Hazelet said he was very concerned about the rumors in light of the fact there seems to be no shortage of sports team coaches and no rumors of eliminating any of those programs.

“The band was a huge reason for us staying here,” said Mark Swain who retired from the Air Force. After living in Virginia for many years, they relocated here. “The kids are all great and they deserve a full-time director.”

Taking all the comments under thoughtful advisement, board president Don Armstrong said, “I appreciate your dedication to your cause. We have been discussing this. When our decision has been made, you will be involved.”

“We do appreciate hearing from you,” said Whitley County Consolidated School superintendent Dr. Laura Huffman.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

What began as a rumor resulted in a larger than expected crowd at the Tuesday evening Whitley County Consolidated School board meeting where parents and students alike came forth asking for answers.

The concern: whether the school system plans to replace the middle school and high school band director positions with just one full-time instructor who would split both responsibilities.

Many of the students and parents in attendance addressed the board directly with their concerns and questions about the future of the Columbia City High School and Indian Springs Middle School band programs.

Nicole Yingst, a sophomore who plays clarinet in the band, said she was concerned about what impact this might have on the music department as a whole. Yingst outlined the many responsibilities for which a band director is accountable and said, “These activities would be most likely lost or not done to their fullest potential if there were one person to oversee everything.”

“I plead that you consider what it is like to lose the one thing you want the most,” Yingst said, urging the school board to keep the program as is. She also asked for an end to the countless rumors she’s heard about the fate of the music program at the middle school and high school levels.

 “Rumors are rampant,” a parent said, adding that he knows for a fact that the current band director, Mr. Criss, is leaving, but has heard numerous rumors about what will happen when the time comes to fill that position. “This rumor has been floating around creating anguish and fear. A teacher stretched between two schools cannot do justice to either.”

Brenda Marty, a band booster officer and parent of two sons in band, noted that four out of the top 12 students in the CCHS Class of 2009 have been involved in band. Marty also said that the band has raised $20,000 this year for their own expenses and secured another $5,000 through the Whitley County Community Foundation. She said she was afraid that instability in the program would not give a good message to the community about donating to their cause and asked the board “to make decisions as if they affected your child.”

Lisa Hensler asked the board to consider the way the bands’ fundraising programs have a positive impact on the local business community. All organizations that participate in their fundraising card enjoy the benefit of advertising and customers – all of which might be on the line if the band program ceased to exist. She also spoke of the band members and their families who are actively involved in community events and activities.

“This is not a sit in the classroom group of children,” Hensler said, noting the many parades, community concerts and other activities the band participates in.

Gina Kissinger estimated the cost of a band director at approximately $23,000 and compared the impact of a band director on young musicians to role of a coach in athletics. “Who is it that plays your school song, that gets people fired up, that plays for your teams,” she asked.

A father, Bruce Hazelet, said that although all three of his children are athletes, it was the possible loss of the band program that caused great upset in their household. Hazelet said he was very concerned about the rumors in light of the fact there seems to be no shortage of sports team coaches and no rumors of eliminating any of those programs.

“The band was a huge reason for us staying here,” said Mark Swain who retired from the Air Force. After living in Virginia for many years, they relocated here. “The kids are all great and they deserve a full-time director.”

Taking all the comments under thoughtful advisement, board president Don Armstrong said, “I appreciate your dedication to your cause. We have been discussing this. When our decision has been made, you will be involved.”

“We do appreciate hearing from you,” said Whitley County Consolidated School superintendent Dr. Laura Huffman.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Inside the walls of a school, there are new faces that arrive each year, eager to learn and grow. Others have learned all they can, become older and move on. But there are some faces that never change – those of long-time faculty and staff who see generation after generation move through our community’s school buildings.

On Tuesday evening, many of those long-time employees were honored by the Whitley County Consolidated School board and cheered as they now move on toward new horizons in their own lives: retirement.

Tom McElroy, a long-time maintenance and custodial employee at Thorncreek Center School and, more recently, Northern Heights Elementary School is retiring after 25 years of service.

Betty Grimes retires after 10 years in the custodial department at Coesse Elementary School.

Bobbie Louden retires after 20 years as a kindergarten teacher, most recently at Little Turtle Elementary School.

Jerry Auer is retiring after 20 years as a custodian, most recently at Little Turtle Elementary School.

First grade teacher Beth Bloom is retiring after 31 years, more recently at Little Turtle Elementary School, and previously at Mary Raber.

Jan McCoy is retiring after 26.5 years. McCoy began as a bookkeeper in the superintendent’s office and, at the urging of longtime administrator Ralph Bailey, went to college and got her degree. She retires as a reading recovery teacher at Little Turtle Elementary.

Originally a custodian at Thorncreek Center School, Steve Tackwell is retiring after 11 years as a custodian at CCHS.

Celebrating the most years of service upon her retirement was Anna Johnson. Johnson has spent 34 years in the food service department at Columbia City High School where she started working in 1975.

“Thank you for all your service,” said WCCS board president Don Armstrong.

Each retiring employee was presented with a plaque and recognized at the school board meeting on Tuesday evening at the Marshall Memorial Building in Columbia City.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Inside the walls of a school, there are new faces that arrive each year, eager to learn and grow. Others have learned all they can, become older and move on. But there are some faces that never change – those of long-time faculty and staff who see generation after generation move through our community’s school buildings.

On Tuesday evening, many of those long-time employees were honored by the Whitley County Consolidated School board and cheered as they now move on toward new horizons in their own lives: retirement.

Tom McElroy, a long-time maintenance and custodial employee at Thorncreek Center School and, more recently, Northern Heights Elementary School is retiring after 25 years of service.

Betty Grimes retires after 10 years in the custodial department at Coesse Elementary School.

Bobbie Louden retires after 20 years as a kindergarten teacher, most recently at Little Turtle Elementary School.

Jerry Auer is retiring after 20 years as a custodian, most recently at Little Turtle Elementary School.

First grade teacher Beth Bloom is retiring after 31 years, more recently at Little Turtle Elementary School, and previously at Mary Raber.

Jan McCoy is retiring after 26.5 years. McCoy began as a bookkeeper in the superintendent’s office and, at the urging of longtime administrator Ralph Bailey, went to college and got her degree. She retires as a reading recovery teacher at Little Turtle Elementary.

Originally a custodian at Thorncreek Center School, Steve Tackwell is retiring after 11 years as a custodian at CCHS.

Celebrating the most years of service upon her retirement was Anna Johnson. Johnson has spent 34 years in the food service department at Columbia City High School where she started working in 1975.

“Thank you for all your service,” said WCCS board president Don Armstrong.

Each retiring employee was presented with a plaque and recognized at the school board meeting on Tuesday evening at the Marshall Memorial Building in Columbia City.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

More than 150 Columbia City High School students hope to set themselves apart from their competitors in the job market with a very important edge – their work ethic.

On Monday night, Judy Moore and Cheryl Schuman invited each of the 83 award winners to join them on stage to accept certificates of recognition for completing the voluntary program.

Over the course of the school year, students gained points toward their work ethics certification by completing unpaid internships, exhibiting discipline, learning new skills, maintaining high grade point averages, through punctuality, community service and more elements that future employers will find positive in the workforce.

In fact, according to Moore, the students conducted more than 1000 hours of volunteer service in the community, addressing a variety of community needs.

Seniors recognized with work ethics certification include: Holly Dunn, Lauren Greulich, Justin Hearld, Melissa Jackson, Kristen Jeffrey, Shannon Kauffman, Michele Klinefelter, Jyllian Kumfer, Amber Lecklider, Eric Marty, Jennifer Nierman, Courtney Raypole, Taylor Rethlake, Sarah Reynolds, Drew Sauers, Austin Straub, Jedidiah Wagner, Michelle Wheeler, Caylissa Wolfe, Mitchel Zorger, Kory Bailey, Steven Beck, Jessica Beeching, Andy Bernhard, Kayla Culp, Blake Downing, Katie Foy, Sarah Gager, Alex Gottsov, Amanda Graham, Catherine Heaton, Ann Jones, Michael Kreider, Aubrey Lee, Ayriel Lortie, Aaron Martin, Kara Mawhorter, Amanda McMullen, Kassandra Mosher, Adam Murphy, Amanda Peters, Derick Rice, Amy Rieder, Jerry Rosbrugh, James Schinbeckler, Magdalena Silva, Keah Southall, Brienna Swick, Diedre Van Straten, Hayden Vogely, Ryan Wertman, Kala Wiegman, Kyle Wilkins and Jacob Woodward.

Also, juniors recognized include: Jennifer Bentz, Alexandra Bunyan, Abigail Chambers, Erin Culver, Emily Espich, Heather Gatchell, Chelsea Geiger, Jeffrey Greuttert, Cheyann Hibbert, Ashley Hicks, Mindi Hoffman, Nicole Hyndman, Miranda Jackson, Heather King, Dallas Kirgis, Stephanie Kyler, Brice Lantz, Brittany Laux, Gabrielle Mishler, Alexandra Parker, Christin Rethlake, Jennifer Schaefer, Emily Schnorr, Shelbi Simpkins, Brooke Vance, Amy Wagoner, Alivia Walker and Angelia Williams.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

More than 150 Columbia City High School students hope to set themselves apart from their competitors in the job market with a very important edge – their work ethic.

On Monday night, Judy Moore and Cheryl Schuman invited each of the 83 award winners to join them on stage to accept certificates of recognition for completing the voluntary program.

Over the course of the school year, students gained points toward their work ethics certification by completing unpaid internships, exhibiting discipline, learning new skills, maintaining high grade point averages, through punctuality, community service and more elements that future employers will find positive in the workforce.

In fact, according to Moore, the students conducted more than 1000 hours of volunteer service in the community, addressing a variety of community needs.

Seniors recognized with work ethics certification include: Holly Dunn, Lauren Greulich, Justin Hearld, Melissa Jackson, Kristen Jeffrey, Shannon Kauffman, Michele Klinefelter, Jyllian Kumfer, Amber Lecklider, Eric Marty, Jennifer Nierman, Courtney Raypole, Taylor Rethlake, Sarah Reynolds, Drew Sauers, Austin Straub, Jedidiah Wagner, Michelle Wheeler, Caylissa Wolfe, Mitchel Zorger, Kory Bailey, Steven Beck, Jessica Beeching, Andy Bernhard, Kayla Culp, Blake Downing, Katie Foy, Sarah Gager, Alex Gottsov, Amanda Graham, Catherine Heaton, Ann Jones, Michael Kreider, Aubrey Lee, Ayriel Lortie, Aaron Martin, Kara Mawhorter, Amanda McMullen, Kassandra Mosher, Adam Murphy, Amanda Peters, Derick Rice, Amy Rieder, Jerry Rosbrugh, James Schinbeckler, Magdalena Silva, Keah Southall, Brienna Swick, Diedre Van Straten, Hayden Vogely, Ryan Wertman, Kala Wiegman, Kyle Wilkins and Jacob Woodward.

Also, juniors recognized include: Jennifer Bentz, Alexandra Bunyan, Abigail Chambers, Erin Culver, Emily Espich, Heather Gatchell, Chelsea Geiger, Jeffrey Greuttert, Cheyann Hibbert, Ashley Hicks, Mindi Hoffman, Nicole Hyndman, Miranda Jackson, Heather King, Dallas Kirgis, Stephanie Kyler, Brice Lantz, Brittany Laux, Gabrielle Mishler, Alexandra Parker, Christin Rethlake, Jennifer Schaefer, Emily Schnorr, Shelbi Simpkins, Brooke Vance, Amy Wagoner, Alivia Walker and Angelia Williams.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The Newell Rice Auditorium, above, was buzzing with excitement and anticipation Monday night during the annual Honors Convocation -- where dozens of awards and thousands of dollars in college scholarships were awarded to Columbia City High School seniors. 

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Monday evening marked the culmination of many years of hard work and effort on the part of Columbia City High School students and their families who gathered for the annual, much-anticipated Honors Convocation.

A significant amount of scholarship money was awarded to deserving youths set on pursuing higher education. Additionally, proud coaches brought forth many of the awards the community looks forward to celebrating each year – including those awards that memorialize much-beloved, departed citizens whose memory lives on through the presentation of such gifts.

What follows are the awards and who was selected to receive them this year:

Historian of the Year – Alexander Parker (Erin Pulver was runner up)

Hazel Munns & Joseph and Irene Shull Music Award – Amanda Peters

Tri Kappa Alpha Iota Scholarship – Chelsea Sjahfiedin

Joseph and Irene Shull Scholarship – Jyllian Kumfer and Eric Marty

Mary Hallowell Honor Roll Scholarship – Michael Kreider and Holly Dunn

Valedictorian of the Year was Melissa Kay Jackson.

Salutatorian of the Year was Holly Nicole Dunn.

The Class of 2009 top ten included: Melissa Kay Jackson, Holly Nicole Dunn, Chelsea Leanne Sjahfiedin, Mitchel Thomas Zorger, Jyllian Elizabeth Kumfer, Dierdre Elizabeth Van Straten, Eric Jon Marty, Allison Louise Wood, Andy Casper Bernhard and Alexandra Hatton Sideris.

Lee Daniel Awards were presented to the top two students in each class and included:

Grade 12: Melissa Kay Jackson & Holly Nicole Dunn

Grade 11: Erin Elizabeth Culver and Emily Coryne Radke

Grade 10: Tori Rae Farber and May Hei Lam Chang

Grade 9: Andrew James Cull and Jenee Cecelia Schneider

The Shinzo Ohki Scholarship was presented to Michael Kreider.

The Kenny Simon Award was presented to Courtney Raypole.

Marine Corps Scholastic Excellence Awards were presented to Megan Whiting and Mitchel Zorger.

Marine Corps Semper Fidelis Awards were presented to Nathan Gregory and Dierdre Van Straten.

Marine Corps Distinguished Athlete Awards were given to Kory Bailey and Courtney Raypole.

Academic Team awards were presented to Asia Burk, Holly Dunn, Sara Gager, Michele Klinefelter, Jyllian Kumfer, Eric Marty, Terry Reader, Kyle Reynolds, Ryan Septon and Zachary Taylor.

The National Honor Society Scholarships were awarded to Eric Marty and Amber Lecklider.

Several theater awards were presented, including: best supporting actress – Kara Mawhorter, best supporting actor (tie) – Joel Genth and Michael Pugh, best actress – Katie Hearld and best actor – Ryan Septon.

The Family and Consumer Science Achievement Award was presented to Amanda Workman.

Family, Career & Community Leader of America Awards were presented to Amanda Workman, William Pace, Angelia Williams and Jeffrey Ewing.

The H.A.N.D.S Foundation Member Award was given to Kyle Reynolds.

The H.A.N.D.S Foundation Scholarship Award was presented to Chelsea Sjahfiedin.

150 students were recognized for receiving the Work Ethics Award during their internships this year. (We will have a complete story on this later)

The Whitley County Teachers Association Scholarship was awarded to Jennifer Nierman

Rotary Scholarships were awarded to Sara Gager, Trenton Shoda and Chelsea Sjahfiedin.

Rotary Awards were given in several areas of discipline, including: drafting – Holly Dunn and Mitchel Zorger, French – Ryan Septon, German – Shori Gerardot and Emily Radke, and Spanish – Magdalena Silva

The Columbia City Optimist Club Scholarship was awarded to Mitchell Smith.

The Parkview Whitley Hospital Healthcare Scholarship was awarded to Ashley Woodrell.

The Dan Mullet “For the Love of A Child” Scholarship was awarded to Derick Rice.

The Bernice Carver Award was presented to Logan Myer.

The Kenny Beck “Changes in Latitude” Scholarship was awarded to Holly Dunn and Mitchell Smith.

Publication awards, for students involved in the publishing of the Talon newspaper and the Columbian yearbook, were presented to: Asia Burk, Sara Gager, Madison Jones, Aubrey Lee, Shelbi Simpkins, Kyle Wilkins, Samantha Alberding, Lauren Baber, Bridget Bellam, Megan Bolinger, Heather King, Jyllian Kumfer, Laken Lefever, Ashley Roberts and Kelley Schaper.

The Ernest Heimbach award was presented to Ryan Septon.

The Eric Reed Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Amber Lecklider.

The Science Olympiad awards were given to Daniel Turnbow, Madison Sjahfiedin, Alexander Parker, Andrew Kumfer, Stephanie Kyler, Cassandra Gareiss, Andy Bernhard, Ivan Fung, Adam Trump, Chelsea Sjahfiedin, Ali Jones, Holly Dunn, Alisha Turnbow, Ellen Bernhard, Jyllian Kumfer and Nicole Cox.

The Science Department award was presented to Chelsea Sjahfiedin.

The library presented Reading Honor awards (for reading more than 40 books during the year) to Jena Bianco, Sonja Burkholder and Alora Lotta.

Reading High Honor awards were presented to Breanne Barshaw, Dakota Stidham, Felisha Ousley, Emma Patee and Nikole Sanders.

The Fine Arts Scholarship was awarded to Tanyssa Lortie.

The Whitley County Art Guild’s Anne Hamilton Scholarship was awarded to Sarah Reynolds.

The Steven K. Raypole Art Award was presented to Landon Lawrence.

The Linvill Memorial Speech Awards were presented to Austin Andreas, May Cheng, Linda Hershman and Chase Parnell.

The Roger Brown Memorial Speech Award was presented to Meaghan Killen.

The Bertha Thornburg Memorial Speech Award was presented to Michael Killen and Ryan Septon.

The Paul Riddick Memorial Debate Award was presented to Austin Andreas.

The Rieke Corporation Scholarship was awarded to Nicole Cox.

Junior Miss contestants were recognized including Natalie Aker, Amber Lecklider, Ali Sideris, Emily Yoder and Kara Mawhorter.

The General Association of Regular Baptist Churches recognized Katie Foy and Jennifer Nierman.

The Whitley County Builders Association Scholarship was awarded to Holly Dunn.

The Natalie Mason Mullins Scholarships were awarded to Sara Gager, Anna Hiss, Brenda Jordan, Michele Klinefelter, Eric Marty, Chelsey Sjahfiedin and Austin Straub.

The Tiffany Parker Scholarship was awarded to Elizabeth McCoy.

The United States Postal Employee’s Scholarship was awarded to Amanda Peters.

The Lawrence and Frieda Bunnell Memorial Scholarships were awarded to Kory Bailey, Amber Lecklider and Justin Hearld.

The Howard and Mimi Wherry Scholarships were awarded to Anna Hiss and Michele Klinefelter.

The Robert Hood Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Amanda Peters.

The Zumbrun Memorial Scholarships were awarded to Melissa Jackson and Holly Dunn.

The Joey Devito Memorial Scholarship was presented to Lauren Greulich.

The Charles White Nursing Scholarship was awarded to Katelyn Wherry, Natalie Aker, Elizabeth McCoy and Kari Mudrack.

The JAKES Scholarship was awarded to Blake Burman.

The Harold “Potch” Wheeler Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Blake Burman.

The Betsy Jayne Gates Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Jyllian Kumfer.

The Talk of the Town Community Journalism and Media Scholarship was awarded to Aubrey Lee.

College Scholarships:

The Ivy Tech Community College Scholarship was awarded to Amanda McMullen.

The IPFW Chancellor’s Scholarship was awarded to Sara Gager.

The Purdue University Incentive Grant was awarded to Kala Wiegman.

The Purdue University Marquis Scholarship was awarded to Justin Hearld.

The University of St. Francis Dean’s Scholarship was awarded to Brett Gagnon.

The University of St. Francis Founder’s Scholarships, Affordability Grants and Women’s Track Scholarships were awarded to Kaeleigh Porter and Taylor Rethlake.

The University of St. Francis Affordability, Women’s Softball and Challenge grants were awarded to Kari Mudrack.

The University of St. Francis Founder’s Scholarship, Scholarship of the Arts for pep band and Science Symposium Scholarship for Chemistry were awarded to Nathan Gregory.

The University of St. Francis Provost’s Scholarship and Soccer Scholarship were awarded to Austin Straub.

The Anderson University Church of God Minister’s Scholarship, Alumni Council Legacy Scholarship, Leadership Scholarship and Dean’s Scholarship were awarded to Jyllian Kumfer.

The Ball State University President’s Scholarship was awarded to Eric Marty.

The Grace College Honors, Winona Merit and Music scholarships were awarded to Amanda Peters.

The Hillsdale College scholarship was awarded to Melissa Jackson.

The Trine University Chair Tuition Scholarship, Tuition Incentive Grant, Dean’s Engineering Scholarship and Regional Tuition Scholarship were awarded to Andy Bernhard.

The University of Indianapolis Alumni Scholar and Richard Lugar Scholarship awards were presented to Shannon Kauffman.

The University of Indianapolis Richard Lugar District Academic Recognition Award was presented to Courtney Raypole.

The Johnson & Wales University Presidential Academic Scholarship, Future Farmers of America and Admissions Award were presented to Jessica Gore.

The Taylor University Christian Leadership Award was presented to Chelsea Sjahfiedin.

The Lake Land College Talented Student Award for Livestock Judging awards were presented to Cody Lamle and James Schinbeckler.

Athletic Scholarships:

The Tom Ness Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Courtney Raypole.

The Eleanor Gall Cheerleading Award was presented to Aubrey Lee.

The following students were honored with DeVol Awards in various areas of discipline: Trevor Maggart (cross country), Blake Downing (football), Russell Anderson (tennis), Mitchell Smith (soccer), Justin Yagel (wrestling), Brice Lantz (basketball), Blake Burman (swimming), Bryce Shively (baseball), Kory Bailey (track) and Zachary Dryer (golf).

The Tina Parker Memorial awards were presented to the following students in various areas of discipline: Courtney Raypole (cross country), Kaeleigh Porter (volleyball), Emily Yoder (golf), Lauren Greulich (soccer), Alexandra Bunyan (basketball), Dierdre Van Straten (swimming), Michelle Wheeler (softball), Courtney Raypole (track) and Chelsea Sjahfiedin (tennis).

Senior blankets were awarded to: Kory Bailey, Lauren Greulich, Courtney Raypole and Taylor Rethlake.

The Tina Parker Memorial Honor Tray was awarded to Courtney Raypole.

The Honor Blanket award was presented to Kory Bailey.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The Newell Rice Auditorium, above, was buzzing with excitement and anticipation Monday night during the annual Honors Convocation -- where dozens of awards and thousands of dollars in college scholarships were awarded to Columbia City High School seniors. 

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Monday evening marked the culmination of many years of hard work and effort on the part of Columbia City High School students and their families who gathered for the annual, much-anticipated Honors Convocation.

A significant amount of scholarship money was awarded to deserving youths set on pursuing higher education. Additionally, proud coaches brought forth many of the awards the community looks forward to celebrating each year – including those awards that memorialize much-beloved, departed citizens whose memory lives on through the presentation of such gifts.

What follows are the awards and who was selected to receive them this year:

Historian of the Year – Alexander Parker (Erin Pulver was runner up)

Hazel Munns & Joseph and Irene Shull Music Award – Amanda Peters

Tri Kappa Alpha Iota Scholarship – Chelsea Sjahfiedin

Joseph and Irene Shull Scholarship – Jyllian Kumfer and Eric Marty

Mary Hallowell Honor Roll Scholarship – Michael Kreider and Holly Dunn

Valedictorian of the Year was Melissa Kay Jackson.

Salutatorian of the Year was Holly Nicole Dunn.

The Class of 2009 top ten included: Melissa Kay Jackson, Holly Nicole Dunn, Chelsea Leanne Sjahfiedin, Mitchel Thomas Zorger, Jyllian Elizabeth Kumfer, Dierdre Elizabeth Van Straten, Eric Jon Marty, Allison Louise Wood, Andy Casper Bernhard and Alexandra Hatton Sideris.

Lee Daniel Awards were presented to the top two students in each class and included:

Grade 12: Melissa Kay Jackson & Holly Nicole Dunn

Grade 11: Erin Elizabeth Culver and Emily Coryne Radke

Grade 10: Tori Rae Farber and May Hei Lam Chang

Grade 9: Andrew James Cull and Jenee Cecelia Schneider

The Shinzo Ohki Scholarship was presented to Michael Kreider.

The Kenny Simon Award was presented to Courtney Raypole.

Marine Corps Scholastic Excellence Awards were presented to Megan Whiting and Mitchel Zorger.

Marine Corps Semper Fidelis Awards were presented to Nathan Gregory and Dierdre Van Straten.

Marine Corps Distinguished Athlete Awards were given to Kory Bailey and Courtney Raypole.

Academic Team awards were presented to Asia Burk, Holly Dunn, Sara Gager, Michele Klinefelter, Jyllian Kumfer, Eric Marty, Terry Reader, Kyle Reynolds, Ryan Septon and Zachary Taylor.

The National Honor Society Scholarships were awarded to Eric Marty and Amber Lecklider.

Several theater awards were presented, including: best supporting actress – Kara Mawhorter, best supporting actor (tie) – Joel Genth and Michael Pugh, best actress – Katie Hearld and best actor – Ryan Septon.

The Family and Consumer Science Achievement Award was presented to Amanda Workman.

Family, Career & Community Leader of America Awards were presented to Amanda Workman, William Pace, Angelia Williams and Jeffrey Ewing.

The H.A.N.D.S Foundation Member Award was given to Kyle Reynolds.

The H.A.N.D.S Foundation Scholarship Award was presented to Chelsea Sjahfiedin.

150 students were recognized for receiving the Work Ethics Award during their internships this year. (We will have a complete story on this later)

The Whitley County Teachers Association Scholarship was awarded to Jennifer Nierman

Rotary Scholarships were awarded to Sara Gager, Trenton Shoda and Chelsea Sjahfiedin.

Rotary Awards were given in several areas of discipline, including: drafting – Holly Dunn and Mitchel Zorger, French – Ryan Septon, German – Shori Gerardot and Emily Radke, and Spanish – Magdalena Silva

The Columbia City Optimist Club Scholarship was awarded to Mitchell Smith.

The Parkview Whitley Hospital Healthcare Scholarship was awarded to Ashley Woodrell.

The Dan Mullet “For the Love of A Child” Scholarship was awarded to Derick Rice.

The Bernice Carver Award was presented to Logan Myer.

The Kenny Beck “Changes in Latitude” Scholarship was awarded to Holly Dunn and Mitchell Smith.

Publication awards, for students involved in the publishing of the Talon newspaper and the Columbian yearbook, were presented to: Asia Burk, Sara Gager, Madison Jones, Aubrey Lee, Shelbi Simpkins, Kyle Wilkins, Samantha Alberding, Lauren Baber, Bridget Bellam, Megan Bolinger, Heather King, Jyllian Kumfer, Laken Lefever, Ashley Roberts and Kelley Schaper.

The Ernest Heimbach award was presented to Ryan Septon.

The Eric Reed Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Amber Lecklider.

The Science Olympiad awards were given to Daniel Turnbow, Madison Sjahfiedin, Alexander Parker, Andrew Kumfer, Stephanie Kyler, Cassandra Gareiss, Andy Bernhard, Ivan Fung, Adam Trump, Chelsea Sjahfiedin, Ali Jones, Holly Dunn, Alisha Turnbow, Ellen Bernhard, Jyllian Kumfer and Nicole Cox.

The Science Department award was presented to Chelsea Sjahfiedin.

The library presented Reading Honor awards (for reading more than 40 books during the year) to Jena Bianco, Sonja Burkholder and Alora Lotta.

Reading High Honor awards were presented to Breanne Barshaw, Dakota Stidham, Felisha Ousley, Emma Patee and Nikole Sanders.

The Fine Arts Scholarship was awarded to Tanyssa Lortie.

The Whitley County Art Guild’s Anne Hamilton Scholarship was awarded to Sarah Reynolds.

The Steven K. Raypole Art Award was presented to Landon Lawrence.

The Linvill Memorial Speech Awards were presented to Austin Andreas, May Cheng, Linda Hershman and Chase Parnell.

The Roger Brown Memorial Speech Award was presented to Meaghan Killen.

The Bertha Thornburg Memorial Speech Award was presented to Michael Killen and Ryan Septon.

The Paul Riddick Memorial Debate Award was presented to Austin Andreas.

The Rieke Corporation Scholarship was awarded to Nicole Cox.

Junior Miss contestants were recognized including Natalie Aker, Amber Lecklider, Ali Sideris, Emily Yoder and Kara Mawhorter.

The General Association of Regular Baptist Churches recognized Katie Foy and Jennifer Nierman.

The Whitley County Builders Association Scholarship was awarded to Holly Dunn.

The Natalie Mason Mullins Scholarships were awarded to Sara Gager, Anna Hiss, Brenda Jordan, Michele Klinefelter, Eric Marty, Chelsey Sjahfiedin and Austin Straub.

The Tiffany Parker Scholarship was awarded to Elizabeth McCoy.

The United States Postal Employee’s Scholarship was awarded to Amanda Peters.

The Lawrence and Frieda Bunnell Memorial Scholarships were awarded to Kory Bailey, Amber Lecklider and Justin Hearld.

The Howard and Mimi Wherry Scholarships were awarded to Anna Hiss and Michele Klinefelter.

The Robert Hood Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Amanda Peters.

The Zumbrun Memorial Scholarships were awarded to Melissa Jackson and Holly Dunn.

The Joey Devito Memorial Scholarship was presented to Lauren Greulich.

The Charles White Nursing Scholarship was awarded to Katelyn Wherry, Natalie Aker, Elizabeth McCoy and Kari Mudrack.

The JAKES Scholarship was awarded to Blake Burman.

The Harold “Potch” Wheeler Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Blake Burman.

The Betsy Jayne Gates Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Jyllian Kumfer.

The Talk of the Town Community Journalism and Media Scholarship was awarded to Aubrey Lee.

College Scholarships:

The Ivy Tech Community College Scholarship was awarded to Amanda McMullen.

The IPFW Chancellor’s Scholarship was awarded to Sara Gager.

The Purdue University Incentive Grant was awarded to Kala Wiegman.

The Purdue University Marquis Scholarship was awarded to Justin Hearld.

The University of St. Francis Dean’s Scholarship was awarded to Brett Gagnon.

The University of St. Francis Founder’s Scholarships, Affordability Grants and Women’s Track Scholarships were awarded to Kaeleigh Porter and Taylor Rethlake.

The University of St. Francis Affordability, Women’s Softball and Challenge grants were awarded to Kari Mudrack.

The University of St. Francis Founder’s Scholarship, Scholarship of the Arts for pep band and Science Symposium Scholarship for Chemistry were awarded to Nathan Gregory.

The University of St. Francis Provost’s Scholarship and Soccer Scholarship were awarded to Austin Straub.

The Anderson University Church of God Minister’s Scholarship, Alumni Council Legacy Scholarship, Leadership Scholarship and Dean’s Scholarship were awarded to Jyllian Kumfer.

The Ball State University President’s Scholarship was awarded to Eric Marty.

The Grace College Honors, Winona Merit and Music scholarships were awarded to Amanda Peters.

The Hillsdale College scholarship was awarded to Melissa Jackson.

The Trine University Chair Tuition Scholarship, Tuition Incentive Grant, Dean’s Engineering Scholarship and Regional Tuition Scholarship were awarded to Andy Bernhard.

The University of Indianapolis Alumni Scholar and Richard Lugar Scholarship awards were presented to Shannon Kauffman.

The University of Indianapolis Richard Lugar District Academic Recognition Award was presented to Courtney Raypole.

The Johnson & Wales University Presidential Academic Scholarship, Future Farmers of America and Admissions Award were presented to Jessica Gore.

The Taylor University Christian Leadership Award was presented to Chelsea Sjahfiedin.

The Lake Land College Talented Student Award for Livestock Judging awards were presented to Cody Lamle and James Schinbeckler.

Athletic Scholarships:

The Tom Ness Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Courtney Raypole.

The Eleanor Gall Cheerleading Award was presented to Aubrey Lee.

The following students were honored with DeVol Awards in various areas of discipline: Trevor Maggart (cross country), Blake Downing (football), Russell Anderson (tennis), Mitchell Smith (soccer), Justin Yagel (wrestling), Brice Lantz (basketball), Blake Burman (swimming), Bryce Shively (baseball), Kory Bailey (track) and Zachary Dryer (golf).

The Tina Parker Memorial awards were presented to the following students in various areas of discipline: Courtney Raypole (cross country), Kaeleigh Porter (volleyball), Emily Yoder (golf), Lauren Greulich (soccer), Alexandra Bunyan (basketball), Dierdre Van Straten (swimming), Michelle Wheeler (softball), Courtney Raypole (track) and Chelsea Sjahfiedin (tennis).

Senior blankets were awarded to: Kory Bailey, Lauren Greulich, Courtney Raypole and Taylor Rethlake.

The Tina Parker Memorial Honor Tray was awarded to Courtney Raypole.

The Honor Blanket award was presented to Kory Bailey.

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Issues with fiber optic communication lines have resulted in 911 service outages in portions of Whitley County, including Smith Township and the town of Churubusco. In the event of an emergency, residents are urged to call 625-3943 or 260-693-3875.

Service is also interrupted in much of Noble County, so residents there are urged to report emergencies by calling the Kendallville Police Department at 260-347-0654 or the Noble County Sheriff’s Department at 260-636-2182.

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Issues with fiber optic communication lines have resulted in 911 service outages in portions of Whitley County, including Smith Township and the town of Churubusco. In the event of an emergency, residents are urged to call 625-3943 or 260-693-3875.

Service is also interrupted in much of Noble County, so residents there are urged to report emergencies by calling the Kendallville Police Department at 260-347-0654 or the Noble County Sheriff’s Department at 260-636-2182.

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(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, Indiana State Treasurer Richard Mourdock was present in Columbia City during a historically significant day, speaking with Columbia City Rotarians about the state's major announcement about refusal to invest in bailed out companies. Below, Mourdock talks politics with 94-year-old Rotarian Elmer Heinley.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Rotary guests typically enjoy lunch among the members, but when the Governor calls, you go.

“It’s been a crazy kind of day,” said this afternoon’s speaker at the Columbia City Rotary Club meeting, State Treasurer Richard Mourdock. Instead of engaging in pleasantries with local Rotarians, Mourdock sat in his car in the parking lot of Parkview Whitley Hospital discussing the delicate state of the State’s economy with Governor Mitch Daniels and, more specifically, the state’s decision to take a stand on the bailouts.

The phone call, it seems, was a bit preoccupying for Mourdock – that and the fact he’s likely to be on FOX News this evening talking further about some news he released for the first time ever today in Columbia City.

According to a press release issued by Mourdock, the State of Indiana will no longer purchase secured debt from any company that was recently bailed out by the US Government.

“The US Government has now put too much risk on those companies,” Mourdock said. “200 years of government and law say that in a bankruptcy, the first to be paid back are the bondholders. The US Government just told the banks they’re too big to fail.”

“We’re considering a lot of options for how we will proceed,” Mourdock said. “I have a fiduciary responsibility to protect our funds. We have to make an issue out of the way we’re doing things.”

“History is being made in Indianapolis and right here in Whitley County because you are the first to hear this,” Mourdock said.

Mourdock further spoke of the economic situation in the state and in the nation, saying, “I’m sick to death to turn on the news.” It’s not necessarily the grim news he doesn’t want to hear, but the optimistic slant that makes it sound like bounding out of the recession will be an easy task. In a few words, he says, it won’t.

“Every time it happened in the past, the US was the most business friendly place in the world,” he said. Recent trends and the advantages being created for businesses to relocate overseas are making the US less of a destination and more a place people are leaving.

“People say we have a problem with immigration – we have an even greater problem with emigration,” he said, adding that as companies choose to locate their businesses in places like China, India and Mexico, people are taking their wealth with them.

“Today we are among the world’s greatest debtors. If China hadn’t bought our debt, we’d be in a world of hurt,” he said.

It wasn’t all doom and gloom, though, as Mourdock feels the State of Indiana is better poised than many to handle what is happening around us.

An interesting note: Mourdock said that for the seventh consecutive month in a row, the state’s till on the state sales tax has been decreasing – something that’s never happened in the history of the state. In fact, during the Great Depression, the state’s sales tax income only decreased for two months in a row and then rebounded.

“People have stopped spending money,” Mourdock said, adding that Hoosiers have been continually spending more and more money since 1952 and this is the first time they’ve just stopped.

“People have started saving their money and paying off their debts,” Mourdock said. “That’s a good thing.

Mourdock surmised that even though financially the country is in a tough spot, there is one thing to keep in mind: Failure is not an option.

To read more of the specifics involving Mourdock's press release and the state's position on investing in companies that have been federally bailed out, click the link below:

Indiana State Treasurer Richard Mourdock issues investment directive as a result of losses stemming from Chrysler bailout 

Indiana State Treasurer Richard Mourdock announced effective immediately that no portfolios under his control will make additional investments in secured corporate debt of businesses that are receiving infusions of federal funds. In addition, Treasurer Mourdock is communicating his message to Hoosier fiduciaries of public monies who might otherwise make investments in securities that can be devalued due to the unilateral action of the federal government.

"I serve as the Trustee of the Indiana State Police Pension Fund and am responsible for investing the Major Moves Construction Fund. Both of those funds suffered losses when the Obama administration overturned some two-hundred years of established law by redefining ‘secured creditors’ to mean something less,” explained Mourdock. “In the past, to be ‘secured’ meant an investor was ‘first in line’ in the event of a bankruptcy and ‘non-secured’ creditors would receive value after secured-creditors were paid. In the Chrysler bankruptcy, however, secured creditors received $.29 on the dollar even as non-secured creditors received higher values and ended up with a 55% ownership of the new company, which is fundamentally wrong and a dangerous precedent to the capital markets.”

“Indiana's pensioners should not be punished as a result of investment managers making historically sound decisions. The managers did nothing wrong, but the portfolios have been victimized due to the actions of the federal government in the Chrysler bankruptcy. Losses have happened once, due to the action of the feds, and as fiduciaries, we must be certain Indiana pensioners and portfolios are not victimized again. Henceforth, we will not add to the portfolios ‘secured’ debt from companies such as General Motors, other manufacturing companies, or those insurance companies who have or will be receiving bailout funds. Given the recent actions of the federal government, the risk is too great for any prudent investor to accept,” clarified Mourdock.

Conservatively, the Indiana State Police Pension Fund lost $147,400 and the Major Moves Construction Fund lost $896,000. Though not a fund managed by the State Treasurer's Office, the Indiana Teacher's Retirement Fund suffered, at a minimum, a loss of $4,600,000 due to the action of the federal government.

"As Treasurer and as Trustee of public funds, I will continue to review and consider all options that are available for the recovery of these monies,” stated Mourdock. "My message to all who are investing on behalf of Indiana's retired public employees is the federal government will disregard Hoosiers interest as it pursues unprecedented policies that strike at the heart of the capital system. We must act to protect funds against the actions of the federal government."

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(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, Indiana State Treasurer Richard Mourdock was present in Columbia City during a historically significant day, speaking with Columbia City Rotarians about the state's major announcement about refusal to invest in bailed out companies. Below, Mourdock talks politics with 94-year-old Rotarian Elmer Heinley.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Rotary guests typically enjoy lunch among the members, but when the Governor calls, you go.

“It’s been a crazy kind of day,” said this afternoon’s speaker at the Columbia City Rotary Club meeting, State Treasurer Richard Mourdock. Instead of engaging in pleasantries with local Rotarians, Mourdock sat in his car in the parking lot of Parkview Whitley Hospital discussing the delicate state of the State’s economy with Governor Mitch Daniels and, more specifically, the state’s decision to take a stand on the bailouts.

The phone call, it seems, was a bit preoccupying for Mourdock – that and the fact he’s likely to be on FOX News this evening talking further about some news he released for the first time ever today in Columbia City.

According to a press release issued by Mourdock, the State of Indiana will no longer purchase secured debt from any company that was recently bailed out by the US Government.

“The US Government has now put too much risk on those companies,” Mourdock said. “200 years of government and law say that in a bankruptcy, the first to be paid back are the bondholders. The US Government just told the banks they’re too big to fail.”

“We’re considering a lot of options for how we will proceed,” Mourdock said. “I have a fiduciary responsibility to protect our funds. We have to make an issue out of the way we’re doing things.”

“History is being made in Indianapolis and right here in Whitley County because you are the first to hear this,” Mourdock said.

Mourdock further spoke of the economic situation in the state and in the nation, saying, “I’m sick to death to turn on the news.” It’s not necessarily the grim news he doesn’t want to hear, but the optimistic slant that makes it sound like bounding out of the recession will be an easy task. In a few words, he says, it won’t.

“Every time it happened in the past, the US was the most business friendly place in the world,” he said. Recent trends and the advantages being created for businesses to relocate overseas are making the US less of a destination and more a place people are leaving.

“People say we have a problem with immigration – we have an even greater problem with emigration,” he said, adding that as companies choose to locate their businesses in places like China, India and Mexico, people are taking their wealth with them.

“Today we are among the world’s greatest debtors. If China hadn’t bought our debt, we’d be in a world of hurt,” he said.

It wasn’t all doom and gloom, though, as Mourdock feels the State of Indiana is better poised than many to handle what is happening around us.

An interesting note: Mourdock said that for the seventh consecutive month in a row, the state’s till on the state sales tax has been decreasing – something that’s never happened in the history of the state. In fact, during the Great Depression, the state’s sales tax income only decreased for two months in a row and then rebounded.

“People have stopped spending money,” Mourdock said, adding that Hoosiers have been continually spending more and more money since 1952 and this is the first time they’ve just stopped.

“People have started saving their money and paying off their debts,” Mourdock said. “That’s a good thing.

Mourdock surmised that even though financially the country is in a tough spot, there is one thing to keep in mind: Failure is not an option.

To read more of the specifics involving Mourdock's press release and the state's position on investing in companies that have been federally bailed out, click the link below:

Indiana State Treasurer Richard Mourdock issues investment directive as a result of losses stemming from Chrysler bailout 

Indiana State Treasurer Richard Mourdock announced effective immediately that no portfolios under his control will make additional investments in secured corporate debt of businesses that are receiving infusions of federal funds. In addition, Treasurer Mourdock is communicating his message to Hoosier fiduciaries of public monies who might otherwise make investments in securities that can be devalued due to the unilateral action of the federal government.

"I serve as the Trustee of the Indiana State Police Pension Fund and am responsible for investing the Major Moves Construction Fund. Both of those funds suffered losses when the Obama administration overturned some two-hundred years of established law by redefining ‘secured creditors’ to mean something less,” explained Mourdock. “In the past, to be ‘secured’ meant an investor was ‘first in line’ in the event of a bankruptcy and ‘non-secured’ creditors would receive value after secured-creditors were paid. In the Chrysler bankruptcy, however, secured creditors received $.29 on the dollar even as non-secured creditors received higher values and ended up with a 55% ownership of the new company, which is fundamentally wrong and a dangerous precedent to the capital markets.”

“Indiana's pensioners should not be punished as a result of investment managers making historically sound decisions. The managers did nothing wrong, but the portfolios have been victimized due to the actions of the federal government in the Chrysler bankruptcy. Losses have happened once, due to the action of the feds, and as fiduciaries, we must be certain Indiana pensioners and portfolios are not victimized again. Henceforth, we will not add to the portfolios ‘secured’ debt from companies such as General Motors, other manufacturing companies, or those insurance companies who have or will be receiving bailout funds. Given the recent actions of the federal government, the risk is too great for any prudent investor to accept,” clarified Mourdock.

Conservatively, the Indiana State Police Pension Fund lost $147,400 and the Major Moves Construction Fund lost $896,000. Though not a fund managed by the State Treasurer's Office, the Indiana Teacher's Retirement Fund suffered, at a minimum, a loss of $4,600,000 due to the action of the federal government.

"As Treasurer and as Trustee of public funds, I will continue to review and consider all options that are available for the recovery of these monies,” stated Mourdock. "My message to all who are investing on behalf of Indiana's retired public employees is the federal government will disregard Hoosiers interest as it pursues unprecedented policies that strike at the heart of the capital system. We must act to protect funds against the actions of the federal government."

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Francine’s Friends Mobile Mammography unit will be in Churubusco for women interested in scheduling a mammogram.

On Wednesday, May 27, the mobile unit will be at Curves, 8475 E. Highway 33, Churubusco.

Screening mammography is for women who:

-- Are age 40 and older and have not had a mammogram screening in the past 12 months

-- Have no prior or current history of breast cancer or problems with their breasts

-- Are insured or uninsured

The Breast Diagnostic Center (BDC) performs the screening. For women who have insurance, the insurance company will be billed. If patients do not have insurance but have the ability to pay, the BDC offers a reduced rate if paid the day of the screening. For women without insurance, a high deductible or who do not have the resources to pay, funding is available.

To schedule a mammogram with Francine’s Friends Mobile Mammography unit, call 1-800-727-8439, ext. 26540, or (260) 483-1847. For more information on Francine’s Friends, visit its website at www.FrancinesFriends.org.

Francine’s Friends Mobile mammography is a partnership between Francine’s Friends, Parkview Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Breast Diagnostic Center.

Posted by jennifer321 at 09:24 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

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Francine’s Friends Mobile Mammography unit will be in Churubusco for women interested in scheduling a mammogram.

On Wednesday, May 27, the mobile unit will be at Curves, 8475 E. Highway 33, Churubusco.

Screening mammography is for women who:

-- Are age 40 and older and have not had a mammogram screening in the past 12 months

-- Have no prior or current history of breast cancer or problems with their breasts

-- Are insured or uninsured

The Breast Diagnostic Center (BDC) performs the screening. For women who have insurance, the insurance company will be billed. If patients do not have insurance but have the ability to pay, the BDC offers a reduced rate if paid the day of the screening. For women without insurance, a