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(Talk of the Town photo by Sarah Schmitt)
Talk about 'Dog Days of Summer' -- it's hot out there! One-year-old twins Thomas and William Schmitt, from left above, are taking the advice about "keeping hydrated" seriously this afternoon. According to their mother, the boys seemed to be very entertained, remained cool and "well watered" by the sprinkler in the yard this afternoon. These two are growing like weeds too -- they'll be two in September.
(Talk of the Town graphic)
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The days of sunshine and flip flops may be waning, but the Watering Can Florist on the Square hopes to help those flip flop days going a little longer this year. 
In observance of the ninth annual Whitley County Autumn Art Festival, business owner Linda Reiling, well-known for her artistic angle, is conducting a creative contest all her own.
Using flip flops as their canvas, local residents are urged to transform a plain pair of the sandals into a artistic statement. Simply create a uniquely decorated pair of flip flops and enter them into the contest at Watering Can Florist on the Square. They will be displayed in the window of her Van Buren Street business where the public can place their votes for their favorite flip flops on Saturday, September 11, during the Whitley County Autumn Art Festival.
Flip flops need to be turned in no later than Tuesday, September 7, at Watering Can Florist on the Square, 118 West Van Buren Street, during store hours.
The creator of the winning pair of flip flops will receive a gift basket filled with prizes from surrounding businesses. The winner will be announced at 4 p.m. on Saturday, September 11, during the art festival.
If you're stumped on what to do with your entry, Reiling is willing to help you out!
This Saturday, September 4, from 10 to 11 a.m., she is hosting a Flip Flop Workshop at the store. At that time, participants will have the opportunity to utilize her ribbons, trims and whimsical appointments to decorate their flip flops. The workshop is $5 per person. To register for the workshop, call 244-2711.
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Below, the crowd stands at attention as the color guard presents the flag during the local Military Appreciation Day festivities in 2007.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Rick Stephens is on a one man mission to show his appreciation for those serving in the military -- something he's been hard at work doing for the past eight years. 
Stephens, an employee of Northeastern REMC in Whitley County, is planning the eighth annual Military Appreciation Day event on a particularly fitting date this year -- September 11.
Between the hours of 5 p.m. and midnight at the Allen County Fairgrounds, Stephens and a group of volunteers have a lot planned. A proclamation from Governor Mitch Daniels will be read, several guest speakers will give addresses and a wide variety of entertainment will take place. The popular Whitley County band Huckleberry Blue will perform along with Deuce, Urban Legend and Dan Nightingale. Other performers will include the Fort Wayne Police Department Bagpipers and the Fort Wayne Area Community Band.
The Parkview Samaritan helicopter will visit and Skydive Fort Wayne will do a demonstration.
The Color Guard from the 1st/293rd Infantry as well as the American Legion and Patriot Guard Riders will also participate.
Members of the Churubusco VFW will be selling pork burgers, grilled chicken, beer and beverages.
Stephens became interested in making a point of regularly thanking servicemen and women for their commitment to their country when his son returned from active duty in Iraq.
"When they came back that year we had a party," he said. "Now, we open it up to all soldiers and veterans. It is for everybody now."
"Every veteran and soldier here in Whitley County is invited to this," said Stephens.
Stephens said he is in awe of their sacrifices and he feels drawn to bringing people together to show appreciation for those who've put their lives on the line. "I just have such a connection with those men and women," he said.
Stephens said the all ages event is free and is meant to show respect for soldiers in Northeast Indiana and beyond.
"We will need about 100 volunteers that day who are willing to hold flags," Stephens said. Flags will be provided, but if you can bring a few more, that would be helpful too.
"This is a neat thing to be part of," he said.
For more information about the event, visit www.militaryappreciationparty.org
Article provided
Faith Christian Academy began its 17th year of classes in Whitley County last week.
FCA is Whitley County’s only interdenominational Christian school and begins this year with 41 total students in preschool through eight grade.
The staff is the same as last year, with one exception -- Mrs. Jean Graham has returned to Haiti with her husband to resume work as missionaries. Mrs. Lisa Shivley begins her 10th year as the preschool teacher; Mrs. Deanna Thompson begins her 2nd year as the kindergarten and 1st grade teacher; Mrs. Karen VanVoorst begins her 15th year with FCA as the 3rd, 4th & 5th grade teacher; Mrs. Sue Lewis begins her 3rd year as Middle School teacher, but has taught at FCA for a total of 8 years. Larry Schmoekel begins his 3rd year as the school’s administrator.
“We have a great group of students again this year,” said Schmoekel. “New students have brought a sense of excitement, and the returning students also have a sense of wanting to learn about God’s world.”
“FCA believes the world is the direct result of a creator God and not matter and energy in a chance relationship,” added Schmoekel. “That influences everything we do and teach. Science works because God is a God of order who is to be discovered by his creation.”
From reports
In observance of the Labor Day holiday, National Serv-All offices and operations will be closed on Monday, September 6.
All National Serv-All operations the week of Labor Day will be performed one day later, meaning residential trash that is normally collected on Monday will now be collected on a Tuesday, with the collections for the week completing on Saturday, September 11.
Serv-All customers with questions or concerns regarding the adjusted scheduled are urged to call National Serv-All at (260) 747-4117 or contact them via their website at www.ServAll.com.
(Talk of the Town photos provided) Above, Mary Glowaski shares a message of hope and remembrance with participants in the recent Compassionate Friends' Walk to Remember. Below, flowers, a sweet reminder of loved ones lost, cover an angel statue in DeMoney-Grimes' memorial garden.
Article provided
The Compassionate Friends of Whitley County held their tenth annual Walk to Remember on Saturday, August 14, in Columbia City. 
Walkers gathered at the Whitley County Courthouse gazebo for registration at 7:30 a.m. and the walk kicked off at 8:00 a.m. with over 60 people walking to remember their loved ones who have died.
Walkers wore buttons with pictures of their loved ones as well as a remembrance sign on their back with the names of those they were walking to remember.
The walk consisted of a two mile route and then participants gathered at the Angel of Hope Garden located at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, along with those that were not able to walk the entire route, for refreshments and a presentation. The presentation was lead by Mary Glowaski, pastoral counselor at St. John the Baptist Church in Fort Wayne.
Afterwards Sharon Brockhaus, GSP, CFC, chapter leader and grief facilitator at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home, led a balloon release ceremony and participants placed a flower in the arms of the angel statute in memory of their loved one.
The Compassionate Friends, non-profit group, is a worldwide organization that was established to help parents who have experienced the death of a child. The Whitley County chapter has over 250 members with an average monthly meeting attendance of 15 people. Meetings are held the first Thursday of each month in the Community Room at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, from 6:30-8:00 p.m.
For more information about The Compassionate Friends support group or if you would like to talk with Sharon about a general grief issue, she can be reached at 244-5122.
(Talk of the Town photos by Viv Sade of BuscoVoice.com) Above, a stone marker was unveiled at the dedication of Paul's Pad, a new splashpad water park located inside Churubusco Community Park last Saturday. Below, children enjoy the park. At bottom, relatives of the park's benefactor, the late Paul Muller, participated in the poignant dedication ceremony.
By Viv Sade
The new water feature, Paul’s Pad, opened August 21 with a ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony at Churubusco Community Park. 
Several members of the Muller Memorial Pool committee were present including president Liz Schemm and Don Page, brother-in-law of the late Paul Muller, who willed a large sum of money for the water feature.
Paul Muller was a lifelong resident of Churubusco. When he died in 2003, he left $361,000 to Smith-Green Community Schools for the construction of a swimming pool. The school decided at that time they could not undertake such a project, and the funds were held in a trust with Whitley County Community Foundation. In 2007, the Mueller Pool Committee was formed with the intent of making Paul Mueller’s dream a reality.
The proposed pool project, however, was estimated at $400,000 to $500,000 a simple community pool, with more elaborate plans falling in the 
$500,000 to $1- or $2-million range. Since a splash park would cost under $300,000 and require less maintenance, the pool committee decided last year to pursue that option.
The splash pad recirculates the used water, resulting in lower utility bills, and is low maintenance, with no lifeguards required.
A local life scout, Andrew Biddle, is planning to earn his badges by landscaping the area around the pad and planting several fast-growing shade trees. Page presented Biddle with a plaque for his efforts.
Jamin Longardner was the winner of the Name the Water Feature contest and was also honored with a plaque at last Saturday’s ceremony.
According to Rick Krider, superintendent of Churubusco Park, the splashpad will be open daily as long as weather permits, through September.
(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Take in some of the lesser viewed sights in Whitley County during the Whitley County Sheriff Reserves' upcoming ATV Ride fundraiser on Saturday, September 18. Below, a beautiful, rolling field of hay on a summer day in northwestern Whitley County.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Riding along Whitley County's back roads and trails, taking in the fresh air, the sunshine and wildlife, you find a sense of appreciation for all we enjoy here.
"I personally enjoy riding my 4-wheeler and I know there are many other people both in and out of the county that enjoy it also," said Whitley County Sheriff's reserve deputy Brian Potts. "I think it's a great way to see Whitley county and enjoy the outdoors."
Yet, Potts and others would like to see residents enjoy ATV riding in a way that is safe and legal.
So, the Whitley County Sheriff Reserves are hosting an ATV Ride on Saturday, September 18, to promote ATV safety, legal use of ATVs, as well as fun family riding and to enjoy the outdoors.
The ride cover approximately 48 miles through scenic Whitley County, beginning and ending at R&D Motorsports, 665 West Connexion Way, Columbia City. The ride will follow a predetermined course and will begin at 9 a.m. 
"This is the first annual ride and if all goes well we will be doing it again next year," Potts said.
The ride will not only be a pleasant way to enjoy the scenery in Whitley County, but also an opportunity to raise some much-needed funds for the Whitley County Sheriff Reserves.
"We are not-for-profit and for the most part support our selves," added Potts. "The Sheriff supplies the car and some other need items, but the Reserves purchase their own uniforms, gun belt leather, firearms, bullet proof vests and many other items."
Whitley County Sheriff Reserves members, numbering more than 20 currently, put their lives on the line for Whitley County residents and resources such as bullet proof vests are necessary -- but expensive. Funds raised at this event could go a long way in providing the tools needed to do a dangerous job.
"We have two major fundraisers per year," he said. "This is an new idea and we hope it provides us with some extra money which will allow us to buy and upgrade some of our equipment."
"We would love for anyone and everyone to show up and ride," said Potts. "Our goal is 100 riders, but if we get more that would be just great."
Registration for the ride begins at 8 a.m. in the parking lot of R&D Motorsports and the ride will start after a short meeting at 9 a.m. During the course route, the riders will stop at different checkpoints for breaks where water and pop will be available.
Following the ride, the event's major sponsor, R&D Motorsports will host a fall open house event where lunch will be served and entertainment is planned. Whitley County performers Huckleberry Blue will perform from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at R&D Motorsports.
Riders of all ages and skill levels are invited to participate. Donations will also be accepted to support the resource needs of the Whitley County Sheriff Reserves.
For more information, contact Reserve Deputy Brian Potts at (260) 414-8359 or bpotts@whitleysd.com
(Talk of the Town photo provided)
"Gosh, Grandpa, your work looks awfully fun!" Little Cayden Leighty was likely thinking just that when he got to spend a little time this week playing in the mud with his grandfather, Kim Wheeler, owner of MC Wheeler & Sons, a family-owned Whitley County well drilling company since 1884. Above, Cayden examines some of the mud and slurry coming out of the ground as a well was being drilled locally, splashing mud everywhere in the process! Perhaps one day he'll make the 5th generation to join the family business.
Woodrow Wilson. Marshall practiced law in Whitley County for many years prior to his political achievements. The home is now cared for by the Whitley County Historical Society and the citizens of Whitley County. The home and museum is located at 108 West Jefferson Street, just north of downtown Columbia City. The museum is open Tuesday-Thursday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and on Fridays from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Admission is free.
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The Whitley County Chamber of Commerce held their first golf outing today at Eagle Glen Golf Course. With a score of 45, the first place team was The Dock, comprised of Ron Glassley, Don Langeloh, George Hathaway and Jim Chapman, above in no particular order.
The second place team with a score of 47 was Whitley County Community Foundaton. Above from left, the team included Barry Leiter, Bill Stroup, David Leakey and Jim Thompson.
Parkview Whitley Hospital's team came in third place with a score of 50. Team members, above from left, included Duane Ginder, Gail Altekruse, Scott Gabriel and James Stapel.
J&J Insurance Solutions had the fourth place team with a score of 50. Above, from left, are team members Linda Hyndman, Jacie Worrick, Renel Alarie and Pat Ball.
(Talk of the Town photo by Chad Moore) Crossroads Bank recently made a generous donation for Habitat for Humanity of Whitley County's Women Build project. Wearing their hard hats and looking forward to a great adventure in volunteering for the project include, from left above, Crossroads Bank employees Jody Klopfenstein, Cathy Pollick, Melissa Mercer, Deb Roy, Charlotte Lytle, Jamie Stiffler and Dottie Cole, volunteer coordinator for the Women Build project.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
According to Dottie Cole, coordinator of the Women Build project for Habitat for Humanity of Whitley County, volunteers are eagerly awaiting the first day of construction which is now slated for Thursday, September 16.
On a volunteer's scheduled day of construction, they are asked to bring a hard hat (if you have one lying around), gloves, hammer, tool belt, water bottle, measuring tape and speed square. If you do not have these items, some will be available for use at the job site on West Ellsworth Street.
Participants are advised to wear closed toe shoes, comfortable clothing, leave jewelry at home and to wear sunscreen. Building will take place rain or shine on all scheduled building days.
Participants under the age of 16 are not allowed on the site during hard hat days, but those ages 16 and older may be able to participate in projects during the latter stages of construction.
More than 150 volunteers have signed up for the project to date and will work to build not one -- but two houses between now and late November. They hope to have the projects completed in time for the scheduled dedication day on November 20 -- allowing the homeowners to move in with time to enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday in their new, energy efficient homes.
There is still time for women (and men!) to begin signing up to volunteer their time to build on various days. For more information, call Dottie Cole at (260) 213-4126 or contact her via e-mail at DCole@investcrossroads.com
Funds for the Women Build project have been generously donated by Crossroads Bank and Lowes.
(Talk of the Town photos provided) The All Star Twirlers & Poms Tot Little Sparklers Pom Line competed last spring. Above, in front, is Olivia Potts. Row two, from left above, is Shannon Daugherty and Kennedy Smith. Row three, from left above, is Abi Potts, Alexis Asfour and Morgan Potts. Below, the Junior Shooting Stars Twirl Team. In front, below, is Kati Jones. Row two, from left below, is Emily Ditton, Crystal Van Houten and Kayla Crouch.
Article provided
The All Star Twirlers & Poms group traveled to Prairie Heights Middle School early this year to compete at a Drum Majorettes of America competition.
Those placing in various categories included: 
Tot Twirlers Class Evaluation: Morgan Potts and Samantha Harris, second rating.
Tot Poms Class Evaluation: Morgan Potts, Olivia Potts, Abi POtts, Alexis Asfour, Kennedy Smith and Shannon Daugherty, second rating.
Junior Small Twirl Team: Emily Ditton, Kayla Crouch, Crystal Van Houten and Katie Jones, second place.
Juvenile Small Pom Line: Meagan Saggars, Madison Cook, Adrianna Foster, Allison Lude, Shayla Harris, Crystal Van Houten and Sydney Korte, first place.
Fashion Modeling for 11-12 year-olds: Crystal Van Houten, second place.
The group is instructed by Pam Van Houten.
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Columbia City Rotarians Harold Myers and Gene Heckman take a closer look at a package of K2 during a meeting recently where discussion about banning the substance in Whitley County took place. It is currently legal to buy at one location in Columbia City, but Bill Brice of the Whitley County Drug Task Force is among those who would like to see sale of K2 banned.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
If you've watched the regional news at all this summer, you've likely heard of something called K2 and know enough to know people in Fort Wayne are steaming about it. 
The marijuana-like substance is legal -- but medical professionals, drug enforcement officials and others believe it is a dangerous substance that should be banned locally.
K2, also called "spice" or "smoke," is a substance marketed for use as a natural incense. Found it convenience stores, it often contains a variety of natural herbs and a form of synthetic marijuana called cannabanoid JWH-018. When smoked, it produces similar effects to natural marijuana -- but it does not register on drug tests.
While packaging indicates it is not meant for human use, it is being used that way in many communities -- including Whitley County.
According to Bill Brice of the Whitley County Drug Task Force, K2 was initially available at three locations in Whitley County, but is now only available at a Marathon station on Armstrong Drive in Columbia City.
"Two other places have pulled it off their shelves," Brice said. "But it's being sold right here," he told Columbia City Rotarians last week.
If working with local retailers to keep the drug off shelves seems like enough to prevent it's availability locally, Brice wants to take it a step further.
He recently met with the Whitley County Commissioners to request their help in creating an ordinance to prevent the future sale of K2 in Whitley County.
"I think it is important to keep that out of our community," Brice said. K2 is currently banned in five states and many other states hope to ban it in the near future. In the meantime, many communities are working to ban it at the local level.
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Click the link below to read the results of the 2010 Adult Open Show at the Whitley County 4-H Fair. Above, one of the many fine entries in the contest, we at Talk of the Town found this idea for showcasing heirloom quilt squares and family photographs particularly appealing. This entry was created by Kendra Peterson and is surrounded by other Adult Open Show entries in various categories.
Article provided
In effort to help Hoosier families avoid foreclosure, Lt. Governor Becky Skillman has announced a series of free borrower outreach events to be held at National Guard Armories across the state on Sept. 1. Cities where events will be held include Indianapolis, Hammond, South Bend, Fort Wayne, Columbus, Evansville, Terre Haute and Richmond.
The events, which will run from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., are being sponsored by the Indiana Foreclosure Prevention Network (IFPN). Troubled Hoosier homeowners will be able to attend a workshop and meet with a trained foreclosure prevention counselor, who will help the borrower navigate the process and prepare the documents the lender needs to work on an alternative to foreclosure.
“The prospect of foreclosure is frightening for anyone, and the stacks of paperwork to wade through can be overwhelming,” Skillman said. “Our Foreclosure Prevention Network has helped guide thousands of Hoosiers through the process, and this is yet another opportunity to find another option.”
Lt. Governor Skillman formed IFPN in November 2007 to combat Indiana’s high foreclosure rates. The partnership between state government, lenders, and community organizations has worked with over 75,000 Hoosiers in effort to avoid foreclosure.
The national recession has caused the foreclosure rate in the US to jump more than 125 percent. In large part due to the work of IFPN, the housing crisis has not caused as sharp of an increase in Indiana. Indiana’s rate (4.51%) is now lower than the national average (4.63%)*.
Last year, IFPN hosted a statewide phone-a-thon that led to a drop of 6,000 foreclosures in the 3rd quarter of 2009. That success sparked talk of a series of statewide borrower outreach events, which could be even more beneficial.
“Using this face-to-face method will give us a better opportunity to follow-up and make sure the people we counsel are able to find a work-out with their lender,” said Sherry Seiwert, executive director of the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA).
Today, Public Service Announcements advertising the conferences began airing on commercial and public TV and radio stations across the state.
The borrower outreach events are being done at no additional cost to taxpayers. In addition to the Indiana National Guard offering their facilities, IFPN has received very generous donations from the Indiana Banker’s Association, the Indiana Association of Realtors, AARP, Fifth-Third Bank, JP Morgan Chase, and US Bank,. Additionally, AT&T is donating aircards to ensure internet connectivity, and Sharp Business Systems is providing copy machines to complete packets of information for borrowers.
By Sheriff Mark Hodges
I would like to congratulate Confinement Officer Steve Myers on his award for Confinement Officer of the Year for the State of Indiana. Steve goes above and beyond his required duties as a Confinement Officer. He helps inmates when they are released and have very little provisions. He will invite released offenders to his church and he has been known to drive released offenders to doctor appointments. Steve also does some of the building maintenance, fixing leaky pipes, repairing locking mechanisms, sealing asphalt; bulb replacement…the list goes on and on. He has saved us thousands of dollars in budget money by providing this service.
I have three goals for improvements to operations for the next four years. I would like to install GPS tracking in all of the patrol cars. GPS will be of great assistance when the public calls in to say a police call was traveling too fast through an intersection or past their house. A GPS recording will allow me to review the speed of the officer, review road and weather conditions and then determine if the officer was responding to a call. A safety feature of GPS will allow us to locate an officer should the officer not be able to respond on his radio.
I also want to re-visit the possibility of video arraignment. This project will allow us to present arrestees to the court without leaving the confines of the jail. In some cases, an inmate that is being housed in another jail could make a court appearance without having to be transported to Whitley County then back to the holding jail. Lots of miles and man hours can be saved with this feature. Video arraignment is basically electronic audio/video equipment that is installed in the jail and in both local courts. With the proper mounting of cameras and microphones, the prosecutor, judge, defense attorney and arrestee will be visible to each other without taking the arrestee out of this building. This will increase security while decreasing the number of officers required to walk the inmate across the street to court.
Finally, I would like to find funding to replace the 23 year old door opening system. This system is responsible for unlocking cell doors and other security doors. The panel contains several dozen rocker switches that are pressed to unlock a certain door. Due to the age of the panel, replacement parts are becoming obsolete and a service call to make a repair is extremely expensive. The latest replacement for the existing panel is a computer operated touch-screen system. The computer screen will display a schematic-like drawing of the interior of the building with all doors numbered. When an officer calls to have a door opened, the Control Room officer simply touches the computer screen to open the door. Since the price tag of this system exceeds $100,000.00, funding from grants will be researched.
In closing for this month, I would like to share some of the jail statistics from 2009. These statistics are from an annual report that I am required to submit to both judges, the governing bodies and to the Department of Correction.
• Total number of inmate beds in the Whitley County Jail remains at 100.
• The total number of persons booked for 2009 was 1892.
• The total number of felony charges was 492.
• The total number of misdemeanor charges was 706.
The top ten bookings by order of offense:
1. Court Hearings (FTA, FTC, etc.) 568
2. Operating While Intoxicated 477
3. Burglary/Theft 204
4. Possession of Controlled Substance 173
5. Holds for other departments 133
6. Possession of Paraphernalia 118
7. Minor in Possession 107
8. Driving While Suspended 64
9. Habitual Traffic Violator 61
10. Battery 59
• The average daily inmate population for 2009: 104
• The highest population was on 06-08-09: 128
• The lowest population was on 11-12-09: 81
• The total jail and in-custody deaths for 2009: 0
• The total number of escapes for 2009: 0
• The total number of juveniles booked via waiver or direct file for 2009: 1
Bookings:
Number of County Residents Booked 914
Average Stay (in days) 37.4
Average Age 32
Males 1407
Females 485
White 1720
Asian 3
Black 86
Hispanic 49
Amer. Indian or Alaskan Native 2
Other 2
Unknown 30
(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
From our Whitley News Network partner, the Tribune-News
A string of burglaries in the Whitko area has been halted due to the work of two quick-thinking South Whitley police officers. Officer Rick Carroll and Deputy Jeff Lewis responded to a July 20, call and apprehended two men and numerous guns and other stolen items. The two burglars are facing felony charges in Whitley County Circuit Court and have been linked to numerous area burglaries.
South Whitley Police Chief Dave Wilkinson introduced the officers at the South Whitley town council meeting, presenting them with commendation awards to the applause of council members and attendees. 
“I would like to publicly acknowledge these two officers,” Wilkinson said, presenting them with awards that will be placed in their permanent files.
Council president Joan Eberhart also thanked the officers for a job well done.
Clerk-Treasurer Mitch Winger reported that the demolition of the leaning building on State Street is a closed case.
Winger received payment from building owner Betty Deaton in the amount of $15,158.16. Hilty Construction will receive $14,700 for carrying out the demolition and $458.16 will cover fees incurred by the Whitley County Planning Commission.
“It is one less hassle we have to worry about,” said Winger.
The remaining structure shared a common wall with the demolished building and is part of the Green Parrott. An order has been issued to the owners to bring the building into a safe condition. The building’s walls must be squared and and the exposed wall properly sided. However, ownership questions are delaying the process.
Owners Randy and Linda Striggle were selling the Green Parrott to Scott Huntley, who has apparently defaulted on the contract leaving behind unpaid taxes and other bills.
Striggle said that the whole thing will have to be cleared up in court.
“It will be up to the judge. We may have to sue,” Striggle said.
Striggle has another person, Adam Flores, interested in purchasing the business once things are cleared up. Striggle said that Flores is aware of the repairs that need to be made. Striggle has also begun seeking bids for the ordered repairs.
Answering Eberhart’s concerns about the bids, Striggle said that he will meet with County Building Inspector Craig Wagner to make sure any bid he might consider is in compliance with all orders. He indicated that he may come to the council seeking a time extension.
In response to a question from Wilkinson about enforcement of the newly updated weed ordinance, council members asked him to solicit bids for mowing and debris removal as needed to bring violators into compliance. The ordinance provides for fees for mowing, along with a fine schedule and timeline for compliance.
(Talk of the Town graphic by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
By Dessie Arnold
This Saturday – August 21 – Go Cats Go will be in Columbia City at the Advance Auto store on north Main Street from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., answering questions about their spay-neuter transport service and having some of their cats available for adoption. Visitors will also get to meet some of the Whitley County Humane Shelter cats who are looking for homes at this adoption event. 
It is probably a combination of the economy, the time of year, and the sad fact that not nearly enough people in our community have spayed or neutered their cats, according to Humane Shelter officials, but the shelter is FULL of adorable cats and kittens right now. Nearly all of the adult cats have been spayed or neutered, and there is a good selection of cats who also have been declawed.
Because there are some very dedicated volunteers who visit the shelter and play with the cats, most of the cats are friendly, playful, and used to being handled. There are cats of many sizes, shapes, colors, and hair lengths – from shiny black shorthairs to mostly white longhairs. The ages of the felines range from 5 weeks to 12 years. Some of the cats are very active and playful (like Sooty or Harry), and some just want to be quiet lap cats. But most are in between – playful when the mood strikes them – racing around the room and chasing the laser pointer, then willing to curl up on your lap when they’re tuckered out from all the playing. All of them need good homes, so please come in and meet them today, so that you can choose the perfect cat for your home and family. The shelter staff is doing its best to care for the cats and to help them find good homes, but they need your help. Please consider adopting a cat or kitten or two.
If you already have cats, shelter volunteers urge you to please get them spayed or neutered. Cats who have been spayed or neutered make much better pets. The females are much easier to live with: they don’t caterwaul or do the little “cat in heat” dance, and most important, they don’t get pregnant and add to the feline overpopulation problem. Male cats are better off neutered, too: the litter box is much less pungent and the cat is much less inclined to fight (which can lead to injuries and disease), and neutered males are less inclined to “spray."
If cost is a concern, when thinking about spay/neuter surgery, there are low-cost options available in the area. One of these is Go Cats Go – a transport service operating out of Fort Wayne on the second Monday of each month.
It works like this: cat owners make an appointment with Go Cats Go ahead of time and make arrangements to bring their cat(s) to them in Fort Wayne (early Monday morning on the day of the transport – or Sunday evening for an additional $3 per cat). The Go Cats Go transport service then takes the cat(s) to the Hamilton County low-cost spay/neuter clinic.That evening, Go Cats Go notifies the cat owners when the transport is about an hour from Fort Wayne, so the owners can simply pick up their “fixed” cat.
Prices are $35 for male cats and $40 for females (+$20 if the cat is pregnant). Barn cats may be eligible to be spayed/neutered for a reduced fee.
More information is available at http://gocatsgo.org/ To make reservations, call (260) 484-5292.
(Talk of the Town photo copyright Jennifer Zartman Romano)
A colorful sunset creates a beautiful silhouette of a windmill near Whitley County's eastern county line.
(Talk of the Town photo provided)
Four Whitley County teens claimed the 14 & under title at the 2010 North Manchester Fun Fest's 3-on-3 basketball tournament last week. For a second year in a row, the team has defended their championship win -- remaining undefeated in three games before claiming the victory. Above, from left, are teammates Reghan Craig, Aly Reiff, Mason VanHouten & Darby Maggard.
(Talk of the Town art copyright Jennifer Zartman Romano)
By Candice Yeakle
It is estimated that a single mature tree can absorb carbon dioxide at a rate of 48 pounds per year and release enough oxygen back into the atmosphere to support two human beings. Trees and shrubs are an important part of the city and contribute to the overall quality of life in our community. Leaves filter the air we breathe by removing dust and other particles and trees can also absorb rainfall helping to reduce the release of overflow sewage into the rivers during heavy rains. Properly placed trees can increase property values and commercial buildings in wooded areas rent quicker and tenants stay longer just to name a few of the benefits our urban forest provides.
It would seem that something this important needs coordination. Did you know that Columbia City has a Tree Board? The Board meets the third Tuesday of each month and is comprised of community volunteers who are charged with oversight of the urban forest. The seven members: Eddie Beagles, president, Gloria Baker, secretary, Ken Lundquist, Nadean Lamle, Nick Steill, Brent Bockelman, vice president, and Candice Yeakle, are supported by Martha Acres from the Mayor's office.
How do they manage the over 7,000 city trees in our urban forest? They have been putting together a new plan for how to best do that. The Columbia City Tree Board recently refined their vision and mission and identified strategic priorities over the past three months. The new stated vision of the Tree Board is to beautify our city treescape. The new mission statement, how the Tree Board plan to achieve its vision, is to promote, manage and grow our urban forest in an efficient and fiscally responsible manner, through: addressing community concerns, pruning and removal of city street trees, replacement of city street trees, celebrating trees, planting more new trees, securing funding, and saving taxpayer dollars.
Thanks to the work of the Tree Board and support of City officials, Columbia City is one of over 3,400 cities across the nation with the designation Tree City USA. The Tree City USA signs at the entrances to our city tell visitors that this is a community that cares about our environment. Preference is sometimes given to Tree City USA communities when allocations of grant money are made for trees or forestry programs. It is also an indication to prospective businesses that the quality of life may be better here.
2009 marked the 15th year in a row Columbia City has earned the Tree City USA award - that is something of which we can all be very proud!
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Three Whitley County Patriots members have announced their candidacy for the Whitley County Consolidated School Board. Above, from left, are candidates Lee Aumsbaugh, Dick Eckert and Terry Smith.
Article provided
On Wednesday, August 11, three local members of the Whitley County Patriots filed their respective petitions to be candidates for the Whitley County Consolidated School Board -- Herschel L. Aumsbaugh, Dick Eckert and Terry Smith.
Herschel L. Aumsbaugh, better known as "Lee", is a local businessman operating Aumsbaugh Flooring at his new store on US 30 and Lincolnway. He gained his flooring experience from his father while working with him in the McClain and Aumsbaugh Furniture store in downtown Columbia City.
Aumsbaugh honorably served in the U. S. Air Force and on the Columbia City and Churubusco police forces. He also attended seminary.
"I not only want to be able to offer my business experience to the community to make our schools a better place for all children, but I also have 8 grandchildren (soon to be 9) who deserve a quality education and future as well," Aumsbaugh said.
Richard "Dick" Eckert is an electrical engineer, program manager and business development manager. He has concentrated his career goals in the area of air traffic control for both Raytheon and ITT where he sat on numerous boards that have given him technical, managerial and political insight.
Eckert said, "It is time that fiscal responsibility be a key element of our county's schools. In a tight economy, and even in a flourishing economy, rational and logical thought should be applied to a progressive path forward."
"Opposing views are very healthy to achieving reasonable goals and consensus," added Eckert. "I believe I can employ my experience in achieving these goals."
Terry Smith has been a practicing attorney in Columbia City for 35 years. Starting in 1976, he has been active in this community, having serving as co-chair of the bicentennial committee, an officer in the local, district and state American Legion and president of Indiana Special Olympics.
Smith was legal advisor for Whitley County Senior Citizens and the Opportunity Center. He has served many appointments to the Indiana General Assembly Interim Study Commission for military and veterans issues and he has been a keen observer of local politics. He also taught economics in the Indian Springs Middle School for Junior Achievement.
Smith believes his common sense conservative ideas are what are needed to help guide the school board through this recessive economy.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The tenth year of Leadership Whitley County begins in September, much to the excitement of the organization's board and program director.
According to program director Kelley Sheiss, 19 participants have registered to participate in this year's program.
Participants will begin their journey of personal growth and community awareness with an orientation on Tuesday, September 14 at the CC Deli in Columbia City and will continue with a two-day retreat slated for September 23-24.
The participants will then meet monthly through April 2011.
A celebration is being planned to recognized the ten years of the county's premier servant leadership program. If you are a Leadership Whitley County alumni and would like to participate in the tenth anniversary celebration, contact Kelley Sheiss at 799-4045 or via email at 3dsheiss@gmail.com
To learn more about Leadership Whitley County, visit www.leadershipwc.org
There is still time to sign up for the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce's first golf outing on August 26 at Eagle Glen Golf Course in Columbia City.
Registration is $400 per team which includes a hole sponsorship. Other sponsorship opportunities are available as well.
The outing begins at 11:30 a.m. with registration. After that, golfers will enjoy lunch, pose for a team photo and be ready for a shotgun start at 1 p.m.
For more information about the outing or sponsorship, contact Michelle Culbertson at 248-8131.
The outing was originally scheduled for June 17, but severe weather and flooding caused the event to be rescheduled.
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
It was a hot, humid night, but that didn't prevent a very large crowd of local residents from coming out to enjoy "Summer Sounds of the City" Saturday evening on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn. Seated on blankets and lawn chairs, the sound of Blue River Big Band filled the air, above.
There are is one remaining performance in the summer concert series on Saturday, August 28, at 6 p.m., when Dan Heath & The Paradise Band perform. The Friends of the Peabody Library will once again serve an assortment of refreshments. If it rains, the events will be canceled.
The free concert series is presented by the Peabody Public Library and made possible with a grant from the Whitley County Community Foundation.
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, center, Columbia City Downtown Business Association president Steve Hostetler and association member Steve Richcreek, right, conduct the prize drawings during the Junior Achievement Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show on Saturday, August 7. Below, Amy Davison of Columbia City and Lynn Nodine of Churubusco were among the lucky winners to receive prizes in the contest. Davison and Nodine were recipients of $20 gas cards when their names were drawn from among all entrants who visited participating downtown businesses on the morning of August 7.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano 
Continuing the momentum of excitement and pride in the downtown business sector, the Columbia City Downtown Business Association held their Pit Pass promotion during the Junior Achievement of Whitley County's annual Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show.
Participants visited eight businesses and received a sticker or stamp on their entry form. Other businesses simply sponsored spots on the Pit Pass form. Participating Columbia City Downtown Business Association members included Precision Arms of Indiana, Peoples Federal Savings Bank, CC Deli, Clugston on the Square, Brew Ha, BE Computer, BE Comics, Kards, Rocketry & Hobbies, Talk of the Town, Watering Can Florist on the Square, Ball Furniture, Gotcha Covered, NAPA and Performance PC.
All eligible entries were tossed into a box and winners were randomly selected during a broadcasted drawing at 12:30 p.m.
Some of the winners included: Amy Davison of Columbia City, Lynn Nodine of Albion, Laurie Burns of Garrett, Marilyn Romano of Fort Wayne, Nick Filler of Fort Wayne, Tal Glass of Huntington, Dave & Sherrie Brady of Churubusco and Mike Maloney of Fort Wayne.
Prizes included Marathon gas cards and superb NAPA car care gift baskets.
The Columbia City Downtown Business Association continues to plan activities that unite and promote the downtown business community, including shopping contests, promotions and extended evening hours each month. The Columbia City Downtown Business Association hosts monthly member meetings from 8 to 9 a.m. at the CC Deli on the first Wednesday of each month.
(Talk of the Town file photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) While there is a lot of work at Plow Day, there's plenty of time for play, as demonstrated during a tug-of-war competition above in 2008. Below, side by side, volunteers work to plow the fields together, a gesture of friendship among neighbors that has been going on for generations. Now, it has become a community celebration.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Set for Saturday, September 18, the fifth annual Plow Day event is a joint effort of many families in South Whitley, including the Amish community, who come together with an effort to raise funds to help a family with a severe medical issue. 
This year, two families will benefit. Donations collected during plow day will help the families of Emma Hindbaugh and Leah Schwartz with medical needs.
Steve and Beth Sickafoose will host the event at their home, located 3 1/2 miles south of South Whitley on SR 105. Signs will be posted along the way.
Tractors will begin turning the soil at 9 a.m. and from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., they will be on display, including many vintage models.
The hog roast will begin at 11 a.m. with homemade potato salad, baked beans, chips, drinks and an assortment of homemade desserts. Food will be served indoors, rain or shine, for a free will donation.
Activities will include horse-drawn wagon rides through the fields, an Amish bake sale, apple butter, apple cider making, kettle corn, blacksmithing demonstrations, pony rides, children's games and craft demonstrations. The Plow Day committee is also excited to feature a few new activities this year that will be a surprise for those in attendance.
Plenty of parking is available. Not only are spectators encouraged to attend -- participants are invited to bring their tractors, plows, disks and horses with plows as well. A loader will be available.
The annual Plow Day committee is comprised of Steve and Beth Sickafoose, Stan Sickafoose, Doug Reiff, Stan Studebaker, Marcus Schwartz, Mike Schwartz, Johnny Graber, Sam Schwartz, Roy Rubrake and Don King.
For more information about participating in plow day, call Steve Sickafoose at 723-4762 or Don King at 723-4378.
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Above, more than 150 people attended the third annual Free Gospel Fest at Collins United Methodist Church on Sunday evening. Below, featured entertainers of the evening were the bluegrass gospel group The Blue River Boys.
Article provided 
The Collins United Methodist Church's third annual Free Gospel Fest was a great success.
The event was held Sunday night, August 15, and attended by more than 150 people.
"There was just enough breeze to make everyone comfortable. The grilled hot dogs were great and plentiful. Homemade Coney sauce and homemade sweet hot dog relish were also a hit. The baked beans were great and the desserts good and plentiful," said Pastor Larry Schmoekel. "But the highlight of the evening was The Blue River Boys.”
"They unique style and sound of bluegrass gospel were both entertaining and uplifting. Our bodies were satisfied and so were our souls,” added Schmoekel.
Collins United Methodist Church members prepared the food and covered all of the costs associated with the event, creating a true outreach to the community.
“We are already making plans for Gospel Fest 4,” said church member Kathy Studebaker, and chairperson of the committee who planned the Gospel Fest.
(Talk of the Town photo by Kelley Sheiss) Three Whitley County 4-H members participated in the annual Sale of Champions at the 2010 Indiana State Fair on Saturday night. Above, from left, are Katie Barnett, Jackie Leeuw and Jackie St. George.
By Kelley Sheiss
Three local 4-H members made Whitley County proud Saturday evening as they showcased their livestock achievements at the 40th annual Indiana State Fair Sale of Champions -- with two of the three breaking State Fair sale records.
Katie Barnett, Jackie Leeuw and Jackie St. George bested hundreds of other fair entries in order to participate in the coveted spotlight sale. This was Barnett’s third time in the sale; her first two trips to the sale featured lambs while this year she took home Grand Champion Meat Goat. The 16-year old Whitko junior and daughter of Cindy Barnett sold her animal for $3200.
Jackie was a record-breaking name in the sale, as both Leeuw and St. George broke sale records for their respective entries. St. George, the daughter of Doug and Vicki Western of Larwill, sold her Champion Dairy Steer for $13,000 to a collaboration of buyers. St. George attends Columbia City High School and plans to attend Black Hawk Community College and Texas A & M upon graduation.
Leeuw sold her Grand Champion Meat Type Chickens for a record $8,000 and briefly stole the spotlight from her birds when she took a moment to wish her mom a happy birthday and thank her for spending many birthdays at the State Fair with her and her brother Josh.
Leeuw will be a sophomore at Columbia City High School and is the daughter of Bill and Lori Leeuw.
All three ladies returned home today and will soon begin preparing for next year’s 4-H competitions.
An estimated 13 records were broken at Saturday night’s sale which was held in the Pepsi Coliseum at the Indiana State Fairgrounds.
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Thanks to the Whitley County Purdue Cooperative Extension office and the Whitley County 4-H program, we have complete results from the animal entries at the 2010 Whitley County 4-H Fair. Click the link below to review the results and see several photos from the fair.
Poultry
Exhibition Bantam Show
Breed champions:
Game Bantam: Hope Eberly, champion; McKenna Barshaw, reserve champion
Single Comb Clean Legged: Madison Barshaw, champion; Hope Eberly, reserve champion
Rose Comb Clean Legged: McKenna Barshaw, Champion; McKenna Barshaw, reserve champion
All Other Combs Clean Legged: Ellen Bernhard, champion; McKenna Barshaw, reserve champion
Feathered Legged: Madison Barshaw, champion; Connor Davis, reserve champion
Best of Show: Sean Eberly (Asiatic)
Reserve Best of Show: McKenna Barshaw (Rose Comb Clean Legged)
Exhibition Standard Show
Mediterranean: Sean Eberly, champion; Wade Eberly, reserve champion
Crossbred: Isaac Schlotterback, champion; Hope Eberly, reserve champion
American: Gabrielle Hazen, champion; Brachen Hazen, reserve champion
Asiatic: Sean Eberly, champion; Natalie Wheeler, reserve champion
English: Morgan VonSeggern, champion; McKenna Barshaw, reserve champion
Continental: Ellen Bernhard, champion; Adam Bernhard, reserve champion
All Other Standard Breeds: Adam Bernhard, champion; Adam Bernhard, reserve champion
Fancy Duck: Dalton VanHouten, champion; Brandon Davis, reserve champion
Geese: Adam Bernhard, champion; Rhett Norris, reserve champion
Game Bird: Dalton VanHouten, champion; Cole Nix, reserve champion
White Egg Layer Hens: Eric Emerick, champion; Parker Hazen, reserve champion
Colored Egg Layer Hens: Eric Emerick, champion; Rhett Norris, reserve champion
Colored Egg Layer Pullets: Thomas Douglas, champion; Gabrielle Hazen, reserve champion
Dual Purpose: Sean Eberly, champion; Ellen Bernhard, reserve champion
Broilers: Sarah Peterson, champion; Derek Kissinger, reserve champion
Roasters: Madison Barshaw, champion; Andrew Leeuw, reserve champion
Turkey-Tom: Mikaela Michel, champion; Mason VanHouten, reserve champion
Turkey-Hen: Mikaela Michel, champion; Rachel Hartman, reserve champion
Meat Duck: Jarrett Ocken, champion; Courtney Wait, reserve champion
Best of Show: Jarrett Ocken
Reserve Best of Show: Mikaela Michel
Showmanship 
Rookie: Hope Eberly
Beginner: Isaac Schlotterback
Junior: Mason VanHouten
Senior: McKenna Barshaw
Showman of Showmen: Ellen Bernhard
Dairy
Junior Champion
Holstein: Chenee Gaff, champion; Peyton Miller, reserve champion
Ayrshire: Sophia Eiler, champion; Sophia Eiler, reserve champion
Jersey: Leah Drew, champion; Abigail Brelage, reserve champion
Brown Swiss: Jacob Blessing, champion
Guernsey: Chelsey (Hartman) Nicodemus, champion; Chelsey (Hartman) Nicodemus, reserve champion
Lineback: Cory Studebaker, champion
Senior Champion
Holstein: Cory Studebaker, champion; Cody Studebaker, reserve champion
Ayrshire: Seth Eiler, champion
Jersey: Megan Brelage, champion
Guernsey: Chelsey (Hartman) Nicodemus, champion;Chelsey (Hartman) Nicodemus, reserve champion
Lineback: Loren Decker, champion
Breed Best Udder
Holstein: Cory Studebaker
Jersey: Megan Brelage
Guernsey: Chelsey (Hartman) Nicodemus
Lineback: Loren Decker
Breed Grand Champion
Holstein: Cory Studebaker, champion; Cody Studebaker, reserve champion
Ayrshire: Seth Eiler, champion; Sophia Eiler, reserve champion
Jersey: Megan Brelage, champion; Leah Drew, reserve champion
Brown Swiss: Jacob Blessing, champion
Guernsey: Chelsey (Hartman) Nicodemus, champion; Chelsey (Hartman) Nicodemus, reserve champion
Lineback: Loren Decker, champion; Cory Studebaker, reserve champion
Supreme
Supreme: Cory Studebaker
Best Udder of Show: Cory Studebaker
Showmanship
Beginner: Abigail Brelage
Junior: Megan Brelage
Senior: Chenee Gaff
Showman of Showman: Chelsey (Hartman) Nicodemus
Old Timer: Kevin Eiler
Sheep
Market lambs
Grand champion: Megan Schroeder
Reserve grand champion: Eryn Shinbeckler
Grand champion BBR: Eryn Shinbeckler
Reserve grand champion BBR: Devin Baker
Rate of Gain: Christina Hoppingarner
Barn Spirit Award: Elizabeth Fleming
Pairs: Ashley Ferrell
Breed champions:
Border Cheviot: Matt Overfield, champion
Dorset: Claire Reiff, champion; Kolten Peterson, reserve champion
Hampshire: Eryn Schinbeckler, champion; Megan Schroeder, reserve champion
Eryn Schinbeckler, BBR champion; Devin Baker, reserve champion
Lincoln: Anna Chapple, champion
Natural Color: Claire Reiff, champion; Eryn Shinbeckler, reserve champion
Claire Reiff, BBR champion; Morgan VonSeggern, BBR reserve champion
North Country: Luke Overfield, champion
Southdown: Zach Overfield, champion
Suffolk: Katie Barnett, champion; Ashley Ferrell, reserve champion
Devin Baker, BBR champion; Claire Reiff, BBR reserve champion
Tunis: Luke Overfield, champion; Matt Overfield, reserve champion
White Faced Cross: Amber Ferrell, champion; Landon Yount, reserve champion
Crossbred: Megan Schroeder, champion; Ashley Ferrell, reserve champion
Eryn Schinbeckler, BBR champion; Robby Sheets, BBR reserve champion
Ewes
Grand champion: Ashley Ferrell
Reserve grand champion: Luke Overfield
Grand champion BBR: Eryn Schinbeckler
Reserve grand champion BBR: Claire Reiff
Pair of Ewe Lambs: Ashley Ferrell
Pair of Yearling Ewe Lambs: Ashley Ferrell
Breed champions:
Black Welsh: Elizabeth Fleming, champion
Elizabeth Fleming, BBR champion
Natural Color: Rhiannon Schaefer, champion
North Country: Luke Overfield, champion
Suffolk: Matt Overfield, champion; Caleb Schuman, reserve champion
Caleb Schuman, BBR champion; Caleb Schuman, BBR reserve champion
Tunis: Luke Overfield, champion; Luke Overfield, reserve champion
Crossbred: Ashley Ferrell, champion; Ashley Ferrell, reserve champion
Eryn Schinbeckler, BBR champion; Claire Reiff, BBR reserve champion
Showmanship 
Rookie: Devin Baker
Beginner: Claire Reiff
Junior: Amber Ferrell
Senior: Jackie Leeuw
Showman of Showmen: Eryn Shinbeckler
Dairy Steer Feeder Calf
Division One: Lynsi Hicks, champion; Abby Brelage, reserve champion
Taelor Maley, BBR champion, Courtney Sheets, BBR reserve champion
Division Two: Jennifer Lee, champion; Jacob Blessing, reserve champion
Jacob Hinen, BBR champion, Brooklyn Dittmer, BBR reserve champion
Division Three: Erica Nicodemus, champion; Levi Mize, reserve champion
Division Four: Kayla Schipper, champion; Blake Reust, reserve champion
Jacob Dittmer, BBR champion, Madyson Stricker, BBR reserve champion
Division Five: Erica Nicodemus, champion;
Taelor Maley, BBR champion, Jacob Wigent, BBR reserve champion
Division Six: Blake Reust, champion; Branson Heiderreich, reserve champion
Courtney Davis, BBR champion, Jayla Wigent, BBR reserve champion
Grand champion: Erica Nicodemus
Grand champion BBR: Taelor Maley
Reserve grand champion BBR: Courtney Davis
Rate of Gain: Tanner Nicodemus, champion; Blake Reust, reserve champion
Showmanship
Rookie: Jacob Wigent
Beginner: Majenica Geiger
Junior: Trey Hinen
Senior: Erica Nicodemus
Showman of Showmen: Trey Hinen
Beef 
Junior Heifer: Megan Schroeder, champion; Colton Geiger, reserve champion
Sadie Zumbrum, BBR champion
Junior Steer: Brittany Geiger, champion; Klarissa Auginbaugh, reserve champion
Klarissa Auginbaugh, BBR champion
Angus Heifer: Abbi Schrader, champion; Erica Nicodemus, reserve champion
Chianina Heifer: Alivia Roberts, champion; Dustin Reust, reserve champion
Hereford Heifer: Kayla Rothgeb, champion; Lexie Schuman, reserve champion
Maine Anjou Heifer: Tyler Johnson, champion
Shorthorn Heifer: Tyler Johnson, champion; Damian Reust, reserve champion
Crossbred Heifer: Megan Schroeder, champion; Breanna Waugh, reserve champion
Grand Champion Heifer: Megan Schroeder
Reserve Grand Champion Heifer: Abbi Schrader
Grand Champion BBR Heifer: Bailey Rentschler
Angus Steer: Luke Schrader, champion; Tyler Sheets, reserve champion
Charlois Steer: Klarrissa Auginbaugh, champion; Tyler Johnson, reserve champion
Chianina Steer: Robby Sheets, champion; Justin Hinen, reserve champion
Hereford Steer: Elijah McDevitt, champion; Jordan Gilbert, reserve champion
Limousin Steer: Alyson Nicodemus, champion
Maine Anjou Steer: Brooklyn Pettigrew, champion; Jacey Keener, reserve champion
Shorthorn Steer: Brad Johnson, champion; Drake Geiger, reserve champion
Simmental Steer: Megan Schroeder, champion; Taylor Pottenger, reserve champion
Crossbred Steer: Blake Reust, champion; Caleb Waugh, reserve champion
Rate of Gain: Megan Schroeder, champion; Tyler Sheets, reserve champion
Grand Champion Steer: Robby Sheets
Reserve Grand Champion: Blake Reust
3rd Megan Schroeder; 4th Brad Johnson; 5th Luke Schrader
2 Year Calf to Steer: Jon Starkey
British Breed: Brad Johnson, champion
Grand Champion BBR Steer: Brad Johnson
Showmanship
Rookie: Sadie Zumbrum
Beginner: Abbi Schrader
Junior: Drake Geiger
Senior: Tyler Johnson
Showman of Showmen: Tyler Johnson
Dairy Steer Show
Division One: TJ Pettigrew, champion; TJ Pettigrew, reserve champion
Division Two: Garrett Cormany, champion; Kaitlyn Sheets, reserve champion
Cora Saggars, BBR champion
Division Three: Josh Trabert, champion; Garrett Cormany, reserve champion
Division Four: Jennifer Hosler, champion; Alyson Nicodemus, reserve champion
Grand Champion: Josh Trabert
Reserve Grand Champion: Garrett Cormany
BBR Grand Champion: Mackenzie Sheets
BBR Reserve Grand Champion: Cora Saggars
Rate of Gain Champion: Trey Hinen
Rate of Gain Reserve Champion: Garrett Cormany
Showmanship
Beginner: Ethan Lomont
Junior: Alyson Nicodemus
Senior: Tyler Johnson
Showman of Showmen: Tyler Johnson
Goat
Alpine Senior Doe: David Miller, champion; Becca Miller, reserve champion
LaManchia Senior Doe: Libby Peterson, champion; Libby Peterson, reserve champion
Nubian Senior Doe: Rhett Norris, Champion; Nichole Sells, reserve champion
Oberhasli Senior Doe: Skylar Campbell, champion; David Peterson, reserve champion
Toggenburg Senior Doe: Taylor Eberly, champion; Samantha Eberly, reserve champion
Best In Show Senior Doe: Taylor Eberly 
Alpine Junior Doe: Hannah Bridegam, champion; Hannah Bridegam, reserve champion
LaManchia Junior Doe: Hannah Bridegam, champion; Libby Peterson, reserve champion
Nubian Junior Doe: Sarah Peterson, champion; Sarah Peterson, reserve champion
Oberhasli Junior Doe: Skylar Campbell, champion; Skylar Campbell, reserve champion
Toggenburg Junior Doe: Samantha Eberly, champion; Samantha Eberly, reserve champion
Best In Show Junior Doe: Skylar Campbell
Mother Milking/Daughter Milking: Libby Peterson, champion; Sam Eberly, reserve champion
Mother Milking/Daughter Dry: Sarah Peterson, champion; Taylor Eberly, reserve champion
Dairy Wether: Britnney Zolman, champion; Allissa Peterson, reserve champion
Meat Wether: Sydney Nix, champion; Hannah Adams, reserve champion
Boer Junior Doe: Sophia Eiler, champion; Seth Eiler, reserve champion
Boer Senior Doe: Hannah Adams, champion; Jacob Bridegam, reserve champion
Pygmy Doe: Mikayla Schram, champion; Mikayla Schram, reserve champion
Pygmy Wether: Braiden Maley, champion; Emma Smith, reserve champion
All Other Breeds: Hailey Schinbeckler, champion; Loren Decker, reserve champion
Showmanship:
Rookie: Sophia Gebhart
Junior: Laura Peterson
Beginner: Braiden Maley
Senior: David Peterson
Showman of Showmen: Skylar Campbell
Rabbits
Best In Show: Joel Genth
Best 4 Class: Olivia Western
Best 6 Class: Joel Genth
Standard Chinchilla: Noah Ray, Best of Breed (BOB); Noah Ray, Best Opposite Sex (BOS)
American Fuzzy Lop: Lindzie Gibson, BOB
Beveren: Elaine Warner, BOB
Californian: Jacob Saggars, BOB; Lindzie Gibson, BOS
Champagne D’Argent: Garet Jenkins, BOB
Dutch: Tyler Kissinger, BOB; Samuel Keirn, BOS
Dwarf Hotot: Megan Goldwood, BOB; Mason VanHouten, BOS
English Lop: Nichole Sells, BOB; Nichole Sells, BOS
English Spot: Erica Shively, BOB; Brittany Zolman, BOS
Flemish Giant: Jacqueline Werstler, BOB; Haylee Gardner, BOS
Florida White: Abigail Atkins, BOB; Heath Atkins, BOS
French Lop: Brittany Wilcox, BOB; Shelby Bering, BOS
Harlequin: Molly Drew, BOB; April Bishop, BOS
Havana: Ellen Bernhard, BOB
Holland Lop: Sophia Eiler, BOB; Andrea Teagarden, BOS
Jersey Wooly: Haleigh Johnston, BOB
Mini Lop: Andrea Teagardin, BOB; Samuel Keirn, BOS
Mini Rex: Elaine Warner, BOB; Cooper Parish, BOS
Mini Satin: Rachel Atkins, BOB
Netherland Dwarf: Rebecca Lilly, BOB; Ben Western, BOS
New Zealand: Joel Genth, BOB; Joel Genth BOS
Polish: Olivia Western, BOB; Hunter Spade, BOS
Rex: Megan Kissinger, BOB
Satin: Abigail Atkins, BOB; Haylee Coyle, BOS
Silver Fox: Rebecca Lilly, BOB; Nicholas Lilly, BOS
Silver Marten: Haylee Gardner, BOB; Haylee Gardner, BOS
Tan: Garet Jenkins, BOB
Thrianta: Zach Gardner, BOB; Noah Ray, BOS
Meat Pen: Joel Genth, champion; Kayla Rothgeb, reserve champion
Single Fryers: Katie Barnett, champion; Mackenzie Ziegler, reserve champion
Stewers: Geordan Reimer, champion; Mikalah Reimer, reserve champion
Roasters: Max Sajdak, champion; Jerry Weber, reserve champion
Showmanship
Rookie: Zach Gardner
Beginner: Chase Johnson
Junior: Crystal VanHouten
Senior: Rachel Atkins
Showman of Showmen: Olivia Western
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
It has been almost a month since the Whitley County 4-H Fair drew to a close. The sounds of animals, the yells of the crowd at the demolition derbies, the roar of antique engines and the scores of fairgoers have all faded to memories. Still, we can all celebrate the high points of the Whitley County 4-H Fair -- in particular the successes earned by the hard work of local youths. Click the link below to view more photographs from the fair and review the fair results.
ly, reserve champion
(Talk of the Town photo provided)
Mary Stockwell is shown presenting a check to Camp Whitley on behalf of this year's group of Pizza Night sponsors. The unused funds were donated to the Camp's general fund. For the 14th consecutive year, sponsors have bought and delivered hot Pizza Hut pizzas to the campers and staff every Tuesday night during the camping season. It is estimated that over 4,000 campers and staff have enjoyed over 1,500 pizzas since the program began in 1997.
Many of the current sponsors have been on board for every season. This year's sponsors were: The Rotary Club, Tri Kappa, J&K Communications, The Elks Club, The Optimists Club, Orizon Real Estate, Century-Link, J&J Insurance Solutions, The Norris Insurance Agency, and STAR Insurance.
In front, from left, are Antonio Andrews, Mary Stockwell (Elks) and Bruce Vandezande (Camp Whitley board member). Row two, from left, is Gene Smith (Rotary), Doug Fahl (Camp Whitley board member) and Jim Brock (Star Insurance).
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) A popular destination for coffee connoisseurs, business meetings and casual relaxation, the Brew Ha coffee house in downtown Columbia City, above, will be celebrating their sixth anniversary this weekend with two days of special events. Below, owner Kay Hildman gleefully hands out cupcakes to customers who stop in at Brew Ha today.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano 
Time often has a way of getting away from us. A year turns into three and before we know it, a lot of time has passed.
Six years have passed very quickly for downtown Columbia City business owner Kay Hildman of Brew Ha coffee house on North Main Street.
This weekend, she's celebrating the business milestone in a big way with the Brew Ha Birthday Bash.
"I thought about it last year on our fifth anniversary," Hildman said. "But I got busy and it didn't happen."
Today, Friday, August 13, she's celebrating the anniversary with balloons, cupcakes and drink specials.
On Saturday, there will be ongoing activities from noon to 9 p.m. Live music will be playing in the alley adjacent to the Brew Ha, including Cardiac Arrest, Allen Murphy, Kevin Sours, Garry Jones, Heroes for Ghosts, Whatever, Catbox, Trent Boston and possibly more.
"We're also going to have random drawings throughout the day on Saturday," Hildman said. She said this was the first time since her business has opened that she's had any sort of anniversary celebration, but felt it was a needed opportunity to thank the community for their support.
"Without my customers, I wouldn't be here," added Hildman.
(Talk of the Town photo provided)
Katie Barnett, daughter of Cindy Barnett of South Whitley, showed the Grand Champion 4-H Meat Goat Wether at the 2010 Indiana State Fair. Barnett, shown above with her goat, is an eight year member of the Cleveland Showmen 4-H Club and is a student at Whitko High School.
Barnett also won Champion Sheep Showman and Champion Goat Showman.
From reports
Jackie St. George, daughter of Doug and Vicki Western of Larwill, won Champion Dairy Beef Steer at the Indiana State Fair this week. She is a Columbia City High School student and participates in the Whitley County 4-H program.
(Talk of the Town photo provided)
Whitley County 4-H members Amelia Roman, with her cat Cinnamon, and Sarah Marchand, holding her cat Grace, brought home Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion titles from Indiana State Fair this week. Roman's cat went on to win Reserve Best Of Show and Marchand finished the day by winning Grand Champion Showman.
(Talk of the Town photos provided) Participants in the 2009 Compassionate Friends Walk to Remember prepare to depart on their two mile journey to share their remembrance of loved ones with the community. Below, balloons are ceremonially released as the living reflect on the lives of those who've departed.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano 
For survivors, every day is about walking forward and carrying the memory of a loved one who has died.
This Saturday, August 14, during the annual Compassionate Friends Walk to Remember, sharing those memories and walking together as a community is a focus.
Registration for the Walk to Remember begins at 7:30 a.m. at the gazebo on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn.
The two-mile walk commences at 8 a.m. at the gazebo and continues northward to DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home where keynote speaker Mary Glowaski will provide an address at 8:45 a.m., followed by a ceremonial balloon release and refreshments.
For those who are unable to participate in the walk, but who would like to participate in the other activities, they are welcome to arrive at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home at 8:45 a.m.
For additional information about the Walk to Remember, contact Compassionate Friends chapter leader Sharon Brockhaus at 244-5122.
(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Crooked Lake, below, with the help of volunteers, will soon have a rain garden installed to help protect the lake's excellent water quality.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano 
The Crooked Lake Association recently received a LARE grant enabling them to build a rain garden near the lake.
Crooked Lake Association member and Master Gardener Jan Barkley is spearheading the project. The purpose of the garden will be to slow the speed of water moving into Little Crooked Lake.
A work day to build the garden has been set for Saturday, September 11 at 9 a.m. near the confluence of Crooked Lake and Little Crooked Lake.
"We have 13 flats of plants to put in the ground at the rain garden and the swale across the street," Barkley said.
Barkley is now asking for volunteers to help with the project -- not only those who live at Crooked Lake or Little Crooked Lake, but anyone with an interest in preserving the quality of local lakes.
LARE grants are awarded by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources' Lake & River Enhancement program. Funded projects are those that insure the viability of public waters throughout the state -- particularly those that reduce non-point sediment and reduce pollution so that water meets or exceeds state water quality standards. A rain garden, as it is planned for Crooked Lake, would reduce the speed of water into the lake, provide a filtering effect and potentially reduce less pure water from entering the lake.
Crooked Lake is among the cleanest lakes and is the second deepest lake in Indiana.
If you are interested in helping to build the rain garden or need an exact location for the project, contact Jan Barkley via email at jbarkley@imagingoffice.com.
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, the building currently owned by Three Birds Casuals and the Clugston on the Square, shown below during a celebration for the Columbia City Rotary Club in 2009, are among three buildings who may soon be undergoing facade improvements thanks to grants approved by the Columbia City Redevelopment Commission recently.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Whether it is an improvement in the economy in Columbia City or new-found interest in promoting the overall image of the downtown area, after a long period of inactivity, the Columbia City Redevelopment Commission has approved three facade grant requests this month.
Utilizing the Facade Improvement Matching Grant program, businesses in the downtown Columbia City tax improvement district can choose to upgrade and update their storefronts and receive funding for the project. Business owners can receive half of the cost of the upgrade up to $5000. The hope is that the newly updated facades will improve the image of the downtown and enhance property values. A side benefit is growing pride in an attractive downtown business sector.
"It had been a long time since we had a request," said Michelle Culbertson of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce. Culbertson estimated it had been at least a year, maybe longer, since a facade grant request had been received -- long enough that the Chamber had to appoint a new representative to the small committee that initially approves the applications before providing them to the Columbia City Redevelopment Commission for final approval.
Now, with the improving economy, a growing Columbia City Downtown Business Owners Association and a growing Whitley County Chamber of Commerce, the spark is there and business owners are ready to make updates -- even if it means investing half of the cost themselves.
Among those submitting a facade grant request was the historic Clugston on the Square, a senior apartment complex. Entirely restored more than a decade ago, site manager Tammy Nickolson said they realized only recently that something was missing.
"We realized we didn't have any signage out front," she said. So, she and Tom O'Neill of Passages Inc., the entity which manages the facility to provide income-based apartment rental to seniors and the disabled, began to think of what could be done to attractively provide signage that was in keeping with the building's historical image. 
"We came up with something that looks very nice," Nickolson said Tuesday, describing the awning and turn-of-the-century style signage that will soon grace the front of the former hotel on the courthouse square.
The other two grant requests came from Auto Body Columbia City for a new sign, doors and windows and a proposed facade upgrade to the building currently owned by Three Birds Casuals, a company specializing in high-end teak furniture. The building is currently for sale and the potential buyer is investigating options to improve the facade of the building.
The Facade Improvement Grant program initially began in 2005. Once the paperwork is completed by a business interested in improving their facade, a committee comprised of an architect, a representative from the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, a downtown Columbia City business owner, a representative of the Columbia City Council and a member of People Preserving History review the application and provide their recommendations to the Columbia City Redevelopment Commission.
(Talk of the Town photo provided)
Vintage Archonics architect Lucas Konger, above at right, gestures as he describes to members of the Whitley County Economic Development Corporation the progress being made on construction of the new Parkview Whitley Hospital. The group toured the hospital August 9. Construction of the hospital is on schedule to be open in the fall of 2011, according to hospital officials.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Though some local leaders originally had different plans for a grant from the Indiana Department of Housing and Urban Development, including proposed building enhancements initiative in downtown Columbia City -- the $100,000 will not go unused.
The Columbia City Redevelopment Commission is now a few steps closer to utilizing that money to create a revolving loan fund for business owners to begin enhancement projects on the inside of their buildings. Of particular interest: projects that will make second or third stories habitable, useful spaces.
The Columbia City Redevelopment Commission began investigating the proposed revolving loan idea more than a year ago and said at that time they would like to keep the interest rate on the loans around 0% as a means of stimulating business growth and development.
The proposed loan program would not pay the full amount toward a project -- but rather would provide funding to make up the difference between what the business owner wanted to invest in a project and what a bank might be willing to lend for a project. Potential projects might include renovation and upgrading upper story apartments or rehabilitating space that could generate additional income for the business owner.
The program will need to be finalized by the State of Indiana and the commission will need to approve an application and an applicant score sheet.
To read our original story from June 23, 2009, where the idea for the revolving loan program began, click here.
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Plenty of captivating cars are on the lot and catching attention in Larwill at the newly reopened Rhoades Automotive on US 30.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
In a year a lot of businesses would describe as difficult, Rhoades Automotive has had a banner year -- enough so that owner Lamonte Rhoades has decided to open a second location in Larwill on the site of his original car lot.
Rhoades originally opened Rhoades Automotive along US 30 in Larwill in July 2001 and stayed at that location for seven years, catering to a clientele interested in purchasing unique, high line vehicles -- Mercedes, Mini Coopers, BMWs, vintage autos and more.
After seven years in Larwill, Rhoades moved his business to a location at 410 South Line Street in Columbia City.
"We've grown and had a record year in sales," Rhoades said. "I think we're up over 30% this year. We've really had a great year."
"I sold that building three years ago," Rhoades said. "But I received a call from the building's owner recently and I've decided to lease it back."
"It made a lot of sense to get the exposure we had on US 30," he said. "But I'm not leaving Columbia City. I really appreciate the people in Columbia City who've supported us and continued to buy from us."
"We plan to give the same kind of service and quality of cars in both locations," added Rhoades.
"It's helping people find cars," he said. "That's really the focus of our business." Rhoades said it isn't always the cars he has on the lot people are in search of -- instead customers come to him in search of a specific vehicle, often rare, hard-to-find vehicles. Fortunately, that niche continues to be something that can be accomplished from both locations as well as Rhoades Automotive's online business.
"Line Street tends to be the best space for our trade in inventory," he said. The visibility along US 30 tends to work well for some of his more expensive, eye-candy vehicles.
"We've already sold a Hummer and a Mini Cooper on US 30," said Rhoades. "We have a Mercedes up there that we had 35 people stop to look at in five days. That's just amazing."
Rhoades wants to quell any myths that he's leaving his Columbia City location -- in fact, he's planning to spend most of his time there and has instead assigned employee John Harris with the Larwill location.
"Columbia City has been so good to us," he said. "The Whitley County market has been phenomenal and people continue to look at us as their car advisors. The repeat business has been good for us."
Rhoades said 80% of his business tends to be repeat customers.
Rhoades said neighbors of his Larwill location are exceedingly glad he's got a presence in town once again. He reopened the space four weeks ago and said it was surprisingly easy to reopen there.
"There are a lot of positives about this," added Rhoades.
Rhoades Automotive is open at both locations from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday and on Saturdays from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit their website at www.rhoadesautomotive.com
(Talk of the Town photos provided) Below, attendees at the 2009 Senior Expo gather information about senior-related services in the community. This year's event promises even more resources and information for local seniors, in addition to refreshments and entertainment.
By Eddie Beagles
DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home is pleased to announce its 4th annual Senior Expo.
The Expo will take place on Saturday, September 11, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home, 600 Countryside Dr., Columbia City. The event is free to the general public.
In addition to over 30 different booths for seniors and their caregivers, this year there will be blood screens offered by Parkview Whitley Hospital Laboratory (Chem 17 panel, TSH, and PSA) for a nominal fee of $20 each, fasting is recommended.
The entertainment lineup this year will be phenomenal with the Bluegrass and Gospel group By Chance performing from 9-10 a.m., the Whitko High School Gospel Choir performing from 10-10:30 a.m., and the Red Hat Strutters will perform at 11 a.m. Refreshments will be served all throughout the event. There will also be drawings for door prizes, including free gas card giveaways!
For more information about Senior Expo, call 244-5122.
(Talk of the Town photo by Chad Moore)
On Friday, Crossroads Bank employees played a special role in the groundbreaking ceremony for Habitat for Humanity of Whitley County's Women Build project on West Ellsworth Street -- they got to deliver a check to help fund the project. Crossroads Bank donated $5000 to the Women Build project in Whitley County which will bring together more than 150 women to build a home for a single mother and her children. Crossroads Bank employees, above, were in a playful mood after the ceremony Friday. Above, from left in front is, Cathy Pollick, Deb Roy and Charlotte Lytle. Row two, from left, includes Jody Klopfenstein, Melissa Mercer, Jamie Stiffler and Dottie Cole, volunteer coordinator for the Women Build project.
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Summer days on local lakes are precious few now as the cicadas buzz and crickets chirp a countdown to the frosty fall. Above, sun sets over Loon Lake in Whitley County as fishermen come in from a busy say and a campfire crackles nearby. Enjoy these summer days to the fullest at Whitley County's lakes -- they'll be over too soon.
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano and James Romano) Above, standing on the steps of the new home of the non-profit BABE program in Columbia City, executive director Shawn Ellis and BABE board member Carrie Ebersole recount the eventful days they've had preparing for the move. Below, several Whitley County Historical Society board members, society members and staff toured the house they are renting to the BABE program last evening. Below, from left, is Chuck Jones, Angela Maley, Joyce Hite, Bev Henley, Dennis Warnick, Carrie Ebersole, Jeanette Brown, Shawn Ellis and Jennifer Zartman Romano. At bottom, Whitley County Historical Society board secretary Bev Henley looks at a crib full of handmade quilts in the BABE store.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
In what is likely to be an ideal example of how two non-profit organizations can work together to serve eachother's needs, the Whitley County Historical Society and BABE of Whitley County are now neighbors.
Following a vote of the Whitley County Historical Society board of directors in July and the approval of the Board of Zoning Appeals on Tuesday evening, BABE has moved into a house owned by the Whitley County Historical Society on the corner of Jefferson Street and Main Street in near downtown Columbia City.
Still unpacking boxes and setting up displays in the well-over 2000 square foot building, BABE's executive director Shawn Ellis is marveling at how the organization was able to fit so much into a previously 540 square foot space. The move, it seems, will be ideal for BABE as it continues to grow and for the Whitley County Historical Society as well. 
Since buying the house adjacent to the Whitley County Historical Society several years ago, the Historical Society has been continuously concerned with finding and keeping continuous renters in the space. The Society currently has no concrete plans for the future of the building, but wanted to maintain it as an income generating source to cover expenses associated with holding the property for possible Historical Society expansion in the future.
In the meantime, zoning on the property has been changed to allow the non-profit BABE program to be there and also to open a very small children's clothing boutique on the site, generating additional revenue to support the BABE program. This just wasn't possible, according to Ellis, when they were in a smaller space.
Excitement about BABE's move and about the joint relationship between the two organizations was apparent Wednesday evening as board members from the Whitley County Historical Society toured the house, talking with Ellis and with BABE board member Carrie Ebersole.
Wednesday was a very good day for BABE, Ellis said. Open for four hours, they welcomed numerous families who were eager to take a look around at the new space and celebrate BABE's expansion. Bouquets of balloons were tied to the front stoop, carrying the festivities out front. Passersby honked and waived.
"This will definitely be a great location for us," Ellis said.
"I'm absolutely in love with the place," she said. "For the first time in almost three years with my career with BABE, I feel very relaxed. We are finally where we need to be. It is absolutely ideal for what BABE needed and what BABE does."
Every family that has come in -- the expressions have been endless," she said. "It has been awesome."
"We've talked a lot about the clothing store space and when it will open up. Families are very understanding about how that will feed into the BABE program and they're very excited," she said.
In many ways, Ellis said she feels God has lead the way in the process.
On the day she needed to file the $100 fee to make a change in zoning on the property, an anonymous gift of $100 cash showed up in the mail.
"Then, I needed to pay $300 to have the utilities turned on," Ellis said. That same day, a $300 money order was donated by a local church who'd made a special collection during their Bible School program.
On the day she needed $135 to turn on the gas, a volunteer handed her a check for $100.
As Ellis talked for the interview to write this story, she commented that the move had only cost BABE about $35...and as it has happened along the way, a member of the community walked in and handed her a $150 check.
"I sat at my desk and just laughed," she said. "How could I ever doubt that God was involved in this process?"
Given all unexpected and very much needed gifts from above that have come recently, Ellis and the BABE board are planning to create a special fund in their budget called, "The God Fund."
"We need someplace special to account for all these amazing gifts that have come in," she said.
"I am so at peace with everything," she said.
BABE's new address is 301 North Main Street. They are open Wednesdays from 2-6 p.m. and Thursdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at that location. BABE also makes visits to South Whitley's Star Bank from noon-2 p.m. on the first Monday of the month and to Churubusco's Farmers Mutual Bank on the last Monday of the month from noon-2 p.m.
Visitors to BABE are asked to park along Jefferson Street or in the driveway at 301 North Main Street, but not in the parking lot which belongs to the Whitley County Historical Museum.
The Beds & Britches, Etc. / B.A.B.E. program was established in 2001 as an incentive program for pregnant women and families to try to deter the high incidence of low birth weight babies that were being born in Whitley County. B.A.B.E provides incentives for pregnant women & families to consistently participate in programs and services provided that benefit the health and well being of infants and young children to ensure that the children are given the best possible start in life. The program was created with the financial support and oversight of Columbia City United Methodist Church and Parkview Whitley Hospital.
In August 2001, B.A.B.E. opened their doors at 207 North Chauncey Street and in July of 2006, BABE moved to 103 North Chauncey Street.
