Extra Treats for the Tricksters
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October 31, 2010
McGuire seeking Auditor's seat
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Jennifer McGuire, below, is seeking the Whitley County Auditor's seat in November.
Article provided
Collins resident Jennifer McGuire has chosen to run in the November election for the Whitley County Auditor’s seat.
She is the current tax deputy in the Whitley County Auditor’s office and has been working for county government for the last 15 years -- serving in the Allen, Noble and Whitley County Auditor's offices.
For two years, McGuire was the elected clerk/treasurer for the town of Albion.
Prior to county government she worked in payroll, accounting and customer service for Group Dekko for ten years.
McGuire is familiar with the procedures of dealing with corporate tax abatements to assisting the public with filing tax exemptions.
She said she welcomes the opportunity to assist anyone with questions regarding their property taxes and that she has been staying abreast of all the state changes over the past years with regards to property tax laws and regulations she feels it important that residents are able to get answers to their questions or concerns.
She adds that she truly enjoys dealing with the public and ensuring that visitors to governmental office are treated equally. She hopes to impart a feeling of comfort and understanding for residents seeking information about property taxes and other functions of the Auditor's office.
A graduate of Central Noble High School, she attended IPFW and Ivy Tech where she majored in accounting and business management.
She resides in Smith Township and is the mother of two adult daughters, Courtney Cooper and Amanda Cooper.
Article provided
Collins resident Jennifer McGuire has chosen to run in the November election for the Whitley County Auditor’s seat.
She is the current tax deputy in the Whitley County Auditor’s office and has been working for county government for the last 15 years -- serving in the Allen, Noble and Whitley County Auditor's offices.
For two years, McGuire was the elected clerk/treasurer for the town of Albion.
Prior to county government she worked in payroll, accounting and customer service for Group Dekko for ten years.
McGuire is familiar with the procedures of dealing with corporate tax abatements to assisting the public with filing tax exemptions.
She said she welcomes the opportunity to assist anyone with questions regarding their property taxes and that she has been staying abreast of all the state changes over the past years with regards to property tax laws and regulations she feels it important that residents are able to get answers to their questions or concerns.
She adds that she truly enjoys dealing with the public and ensuring that visitors to governmental office are treated equally. She hopes to impart a feeling of comfort and understanding for residents seeking information about property taxes and other functions of the Auditor's office.
A graduate of Central Noble High School, she attended IPFW and Ivy Tech where she majored in accounting and business management.
She resides in Smith Township and is the mother of two adult daughters, Courtney Cooper and Amanda Cooper.
Businesses, non-profits invited to have a presence in the downtown area during upcoming Veterans Marathon
(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) With the upcoming Veterans Marathon plans in the works, shown below during its inaugural year in 2009, local businesses and non-profits are invited to have a presence in the downtown area during the event.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
With potentially thousands of people descending on Whitley County for the annual Veterans Marathon on November 13, local businesses are looking for opportunities to roll out the red carpet and shine.
To help with this process, the Columbia City Downtown Business Association and the Columbia City Parks Department are working together to coordinate space for participating businesses or non-profits to have a presence on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn that day -- to sell their wares or share information about their business or organization. Best of all -- there is no cost to participate.
According to Melinda Wheeler, program coordinator for the parks department, the goal is simply to create a big presence in the downtown for runners and their families to enjoy.
Participants will need to plan on staffing the booth throughout the event and may need to plan for shelter if the weather is not ideal.
For more information or to reserve a spot, contact Melinda Wheeler at 248-5180 or send an email to ccparks@columbiacity.net.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
With potentially thousands of people descending on Whitley County for the annual Veterans Marathon on November 13, local businesses are looking for opportunities to roll out the red carpet and shine.
To help with this process, the Columbia City Downtown Business Association and the Columbia City Parks Department are working together to coordinate space for participating businesses or non-profits to have a presence on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn that day -- to sell their wares or share information about their business or organization. Best of all -- there is no cost to participate.
According to Melinda Wheeler, program coordinator for the parks department, the goal is simply to create a big presence in the downtown for runners and their families to enjoy.
Participants will need to plan on staffing the booth throughout the event and may need to plan for shelter if the weather is not ideal.
For more information or to reserve a spot, contact Melinda Wheeler at 248-5180 or send an email to ccparks@columbiacity.net.
Whitley County Consolidated Schools board of trustees holding work session Monday
From reports
The Whitley County Consolidated Schools board of trustees will meet Monday, November 1, at 7 p.m. for a work session at the Marshall Community building.
Topics of discussion will include: a beginning teacher program, kindergarten common assessments, midterms and report cards, mileage policy, proposed changes in print shop and courier positions.
Additionally, the board of trustees will discuss a request to donate land to the Columbia City Parks Department.
The next regularly scheduled board meeting will be November 15. At that time, topics will include a primary math presentation and Whitley Forward presentation. The board will also make decisions regarding appointments to insurance trust, a sewer study and construction bids for Eagle Tech Academy.
The Whitley County Consolidated Schools board of trustees will meet Monday, November 1, at 7 p.m. for a work session at the Marshall Community building.
Topics of discussion will include: a beginning teacher program, kindergarten common assessments, midterms and report cards, mileage policy, proposed changes in print shop and courier positions.
Additionally, the board of trustees will discuss a request to donate land to the Columbia City Parks Department.
The next regularly scheduled board meeting will be November 15. At that time, topics will include a primary math presentation and Whitley Forward presentation. The board will also make decisions regarding appointments to insurance trust, a sewer study and construction bids for Eagle Tech Academy.
October 30, 2010
Eagles advance with win over Angola
Greulich named marketing project manager at Whitley County Economic Development Corporation
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Cara Greulich has been named the new marketing project manager for the Whitley County Economic Development Corporation.
Article provided
The Whitley County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) announced today that Cara Greulich has joined the EDC as marketing project manager.
In this role, Greulich will develop and implement the EDC marketing plan, participate in outreach to area industries and support the daily operations of the EDC. 
“I am very pleased to welcome Cara to the EDC as our new marketing project manager,” said EDC president Alan Tio. “Cara’s experience in marketing, communications and member relations are a perfect match for our ongoing marketing and business development efforts.”
Greulich is a Whitley County native and comes to the EDC from the YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne. Cara most recently served as the membership director for the Whitley County Family YMCA, overseeing membership services and organizing a number of community outreach programs. Previously she served as marketing & development coordinator for the YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne, assisting with fundraising, marketing and special events.
“I look forward to overseeing the continued development of the EDC’s marketing plan and supporting outreach to area businesses,” said Greulich. “The EDC’s marketing and communications initiatives are critical to our work to grow, retain and attract businesses in Whitley County."
“Cara understands the importance of local economic development and is eager to help Whitley County companies achieve growth and success,” said EDC board chair Kathy Heuer. “Cara’s experience working with Whitley County residents and businesses will support our progressive, customer-focused approach to economic development.”
Greulich holds a bachelor's degree in business with a concentration in marketing from the University of Saint Francis and is currently pursing an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University. While at the University of St Francis, Greulich completed three internships with the Greater Fort Wayne Chamber of Commerce. She is active in Big Brothers Big Sisters and Junior Achievement.
This announcement comes less than six months after the Whitley County EDC completed its rebranding process. The revitalized EDC brand reinforces the community’s forward looking, growth focused approach to economic development. Now in its 19th year, the EDC views this rebranding as a continued way to meet the needs of our industry clients’ growth and success.
BMV offices staying open late on Monday to ensure Hoosiers have IDs for voting Tuesday
Article provided
While most government offices are closing their doors on General Election Day, Indiana's 140 full-service license branches will be expanding their hours, so any Hoosier voter will have more time to obtain the photo ID needed to cast a ballot.
Normally closed on Mondays, full-service branches will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 1, and 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 2, to accommodate the busy schedules of Hoosier voters.
Branches will only process ID cards and drivers licenses on those two days.
To obtain state IDs free-of-charge, residents must state that they need free ID cards for voting purposes and must provide proper documents proving identity, U.S. citizenship, Indiana residency and a Social Security number. Proper documents accepted by the BMV for the purposes of securing a state ID card or driver's license may include:
* Birth certificate or passport (one needed to prove identity, citizenship);
* Voter registration card, postal service change of address confirmation, paystub or bill (two needed to prove residency); and
* Social Security card or W-2 form (one needed to prove Social Security number).
Indiana law requires all residents to present government-issued photo IDs before casting a ballot. Polls will be open Tuesday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
For more information on attaining an ID, extended hours or BMV locations, visit www.myBMV.com or call 888-692-6841.
October 29, 2010
Talking with friends about Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana
Sewer concerns stymie Larwill Town Council
From the Tribune-News
Concerns with Larwill’s sewer system were front and center at the October meeting of the Larwill Town Council.
The town has employed Roto-Rooter to clean out some lines and also installed the company’s grease dissolving blocks in a lift station last spring. A grease dissolver has not been as effective as hoped.
The council discussed the town’s reliance on just two pumps, noting that if one pump goes out of service, the town will be in trouble. Pumps of this type cost up to $12,000 to replace and can take several months to be delivered. Discussion centered on consideration of a three-way pump station.
Another sewer concern was with the No. 10 sewer structure. The sewer there needs to be cleaned manually, but this is not a biohazard.
The council also discussed pending amendments to the sewer ordinance. Plans are for an inspector to pass all hook-ups when installed or repaired because there have been problems with connections made from house to line without proper inspection. The town is also taking resumes with an eye to hiring a home inspector. One stipulation is that no present town employees can apply for this position.
With a no-burn ordinance in effect in Whitley County, Larwill Town Council President Rick Hobbs said that all disposal of unwanted leaves will be picked up by machines. Residents should pile leaves at the curb, making sure that there are no sticks or rocks mixed in.
Council noted that trick-or-treat hours are from 5 to 7 p.m. on October 30 in Larwill.
The council tabled work on the 2011 contract with the Whitley County Humane Shelter. The contract calls for the animal shelter to take up to 5 animals from Larwill residents before individual drop-off charges apply. The town is also responsible to supply a list of residential street addresses to the animal shelter to be used to determine if an animal drop-off is from the town or the county.
In old business, the deadline for repairs to the deserted house at 202 North Center Street owned by Ralph Fitch will be coming up on November 1. Nothing has happened in the way of repair at the residence and Fitch has not kept in communication with the council as ordered.
Concerns with Larwill’s sewer system were front and center at the October meeting of the Larwill Town Council.
The town has employed Roto-Rooter to clean out some lines and also installed the company’s grease dissolving blocks in a lift station last spring. A grease dissolver has not been as effective as hoped.
The council discussed the town’s reliance on just two pumps, noting that if one pump goes out of service, the town will be in trouble. Pumps of this type cost up to $12,000 to replace and can take several months to be delivered. Discussion centered on consideration of a three-way pump station.
Another sewer concern was with the No. 10 sewer structure. The sewer there needs to be cleaned manually, but this is not a biohazard.
The council also discussed pending amendments to the sewer ordinance. Plans are for an inspector to pass all hook-ups when installed or repaired because there have been problems with connections made from house to line without proper inspection. The town is also taking resumes with an eye to hiring a home inspector. One stipulation is that no present town employees can apply for this position.
With a no-burn ordinance in effect in Whitley County, Larwill Town Council President Rick Hobbs said that all disposal of unwanted leaves will be picked up by machines. Residents should pile leaves at the curb, making sure that there are no sticks or rocks mixed in.
Council noted that trick-or-treat hours are from 5 to 7 p.m. on October 30 in Larwill.
The council tabled work on the 2011 contract with the Whitley County Humane Shelter. The contract calls for the animal shelter to take up to 5 animals from Larwill residents before individual drop-off charges apply. The town is also responsible to supply a list of residential street addresses to the animal shelter to be used to determine if an animal drop-off is from the town or the county.
In old business, the deadline for repairs to the deserted house at 202 North Center Street owned by Ralph Fitch will be coming up on November 1. Nothing has happened in the way of repair at the residence and Fitch has not kept in communication with the council as ordered.
Turtle Days Festival gives back to the community with donation of new picnic tables
(Talk of the Town photo courtesy BuscoVoice.com)
Members of the Turtle Days Festival board of directors put a big smile on the face of Churubusco Park Superintendent Rick Krider when they delivered a gift of four industrial picnic tables for the park earlier this week. The picnic tables are valued at almost $2,000 and are part of the festival’s way of “giving back to the park” said Kirk Gray, president of the festival board of directors.
Above, from left, Turtle Days Festival board members who were on hand to deliver the tables to the park included Mark Bianski, Mike Smith, Kirk Gray, park superintendent Rick Krider, Tracey Bultemeier and Vince McEntee.
Count Me In has invested $48,200 toward strengthening dynamic bond between youths, adults
(Talk of the Town photos provided) Above, at right, Judy Couch passes on her extensive sewing knowledge to a sewing group student. Below, sewing group participants show some of the fashions they created under Couch's direction during a recent Fashion Review event at Indian Springs Middle School.
By John Slavich
Mother Teresa of Calcutta is quoted as saying “We can do no great things; only small things with great love.” There are numerous examples of this in Whitley County. One example is a small gathering of kids and adults called simply ‘the sewing group.’ 
Under the direction of Judy Couch, assisted by Heather Ward and Robin Lahrman, this group meets twice weekly for approximately four months at Eagle Quest Church. The sewing group is designed to teach children the skill of sewing while allowing them to interact with each other, build meaningful relations with adult helpers and to provide opportunities for them to enhance their self image. Sewing machines have been donated by members of the church and materials and supplies were purchased by grants from Count Me In! (CMI), which is under the umbrella of the Whitley County Community Foundation.
This is just one example of the 76 grants that have been approved by CMI since April 2002. To date, CMI has approved approximately $48,200 in grants that connect caring adults with kids. Grants have been for scrapbooking classes, soccer club in South Whitley, bike safety rodeo, middle school show choir camp, tutoring programs, wood carving classes, Sign Language Club, fishing derby, garden club and many others.
CMI exists to fund new programs that make connections with Whitley County youth and adults, and to promote the 40 Developmental Assets as researched by the Search Institute in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Simply put the assets are forty areas that a responsible, caring adult would experience in their development from child to adulthood. These assets are found in eight broad categories: Support, Empowerment, Boundaries and Expectations, Constructive Use of Time, Commitment to Learning, Positive Values, Social Competencies and Positive Identity.
According to the Search Institute, while the majority of Americans say they believe it is a good idea to contribute to the healthy development of young people, very few actually take action. Fortunately, for the young people involved in the sewing group, interested adults have stepped forward to make a connection.
CMI will consider grants to new and innovative ideas that require funding for supplies and materials. CMI can even help in registering participants and finding a location to host sessions. Please be aware that salaries will not be funded.
If you are interested in a grant or to learn more about CMI contact John Slavich at 244-5224.
CMI volunteers include Rhonda Jones, John Black, Krista Pope, Maddie Hinen, Peggy McCarthy, Ryan Carper, Cami Herron, David Addison, Erica Miller and David Shearer.
If you would like more information about the 40 Developmental Assets go to www.search-institute.org
Whitley County native speaks about his role with Office of Community and Rural Affairs
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Whitley County native Ryan Daniel, now living in Anderson, Indiana, was the featured speaker at the Columbia City Rotary Club meeting Tuesday. Daniel is the northeast community liaison for the Office of Community and Rural Affairs. The purpose of OCRA is to work with local, state, and national partners to provide resources and technical assistance to aid rural communities in shaping their visions for economic development.
Daniel, above, is the son of Darren and Jill Daniel and a 2003 Columbia City High School graduate. He said he and his wife, Amanda, hope to move back to Whitley County one day.
October 28, 2010
Beloved educator Bob Brittain memorialized with garden at CCHS
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, students hold hands around a tree planted in the new Bob Brittain Memorial Garden at Columbia City High School Wednesday. Below, the garden is adjacent to the library where Brittain spent much of his time in his latter years. At bottom, a group of students and friends were present for the unveiling of the garden Wednesday. In front, from left, is Dakota Wappes, Austin Andreas and Zach Kincaid. Row two, from left, is Hannah Clark, May Cheng, Linda Hershman and Laura Hershman. Row three includes groundskeeper Denny Mettler, principal Gregg Goewert, teacher Tom Lough, CCHSAA president Andrew Thompson, speech and debate coach Aaron Dicker and head custodian Bob Burman.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
A space for quiet reflection, a fitting tribute has been created at Columbia City High School for a much-loved educator by the students, colleagues and alumni who remember his so dearly.
Bob Brittain spent many of his latter years in an office in the Dale Pence Library at Columbia City High School, so it makes sense that a memory garden was created in his honor just outside the windows from which light shone on his desk. 
On Wednesday afternoon, a group of Columbia City High School Speech and Debate team members remembered their coach as they looked upon the small garden built in his honor.
"It is a memorial area. We felt it was fitting to do this in memory of Bob," said Columbia City High School Alumni Association president Andrew Thompson. Brittain had been the president of the organization, in addition to coaching the CCHS Speech and Debate team, until his unexpected death this past spring. A retired CCHS English teacher, Brittain taught at the high school for 36 years and continued on as a coach well after his retirement from the classroom in 2004. A fixture at the high school known for arriving very, very early and staying until late in the evening as he worked on high school activities, Brittain was adored by his students, colleagues and fellow alumni association members. Brittain, himself, graduated from the high school in 1964.
A memorial bench in the garden was purchased with memorial gifts from fellow members of the Columbia City High School Alumni Association. A Norway Maple tree was planted in the garden thanks to donations from Indiana Speech and Debate coaches.
"Bob Burman and his crew have reworked this area and it will continue to be added to in the spring," said Thompson. Thompson said there will eventually be a plaque installed in the garden as well.
"Here in front of the library is fitting," Thompson said. "The library is where Bob spent the majority of his time."
"He touched many of us coaching and teaching," said Thompson. "He was also an integral part of the Columbia City High School Alumni Association."
After 91 years, family-owned Whitley County dealership changes hands
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
After 91 years in business, the Thomson family has sold their Thomsons Whitley County Motor Sales dealership on US 30.
On Wednesday, owner Tim Thomson retired and the ownership of the company transferred to Glenbrook Automotive of Fort Wayne. The dealership will now be known as City Chevrolet. Legally, it is Whitley County Chevrolet, LLC.
According to sources, Glenbrook Automotive of Fort Wayne is owned by Doug McKibben and partner Jim Scarbeary. Scarbeary, of Syracuse, will manage the dealership.
The new owners hope to keep the same staff and continue the same level of professionalism.
The dealership officially began in 1919 with William "Charley" Thomson's lot on Van Buren Street, but he began selling automobiles in 1917. The dealership moved through several generations of the Thomson family, moving to the current location on the far east edge of Columbia City in 1968.
After 91 years in business, the Thomson family has sold their Thomsons Whitley County Motor Sales dealership on US 30.
On Wednesday, owner Tim Thomson retired and the ownership of the company transferred to Glenbrook Automotive of Fort Wayne. The dealership will now be known as City Chevrolet. Legally, it is Whitley County Chevrolet, LLC.
According to sources, Glenbrook Automotive of Fort Wayne is owned by Doug McKibben and partner Jim Scarbeary. Scarbeary, of Syracuse, will manage the dealership.
The new owners hope to keep the same staff and continue the same level of professionalism.
The dealership officially began in 1919 with William "Charley" Thomson's lot on Van Buren Street, but he began selling automobiles in 1917. The dealership moved through several generations of the Thomson family, moving to the current location on the far east edge of Columbia City in 1968.
South Whitley residents file suit against county for alleged illegal meeting
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The buzz in South Whitley for the past several days has been about the lawsuit regarding the alleged "illegal meeting" held by the Whitley County Council in July.
On that day, two meetings with two different votes took place, with different outcomes. The first meeting were held on July 28 at 8 a.m involving the proposed Whitko School Board referendum which we reported about on July 29 (click here to read it). The second meeting was held a short while later and the vote outcome was reversed.
Councilmen present for the meeting included Tom Western, Glen Larue, John Barrett, Jim Bayman and Kim Wheeler. Bayman was not present at the second meeting held that morning. Councilmen Jim Banks and Bill Overdeer were not present at either meeting.
Talk of the Town shared the details of both meetings on August 30 (click here to read it).
This week, Steve Sickafoose, Stan Sickafoose, Dale Haupert and Doug Reiff filed a lawsuit against the county council, commissioners and county attorney Dan Sigler asserting that the second meeting was illegal and, therefore, the vote should not stand.
Eventually, the case will be heard in Whitley Circuit Court, but not before the subject of the vote actually takes place. On Tuesday, Whitko District residents will vote on the referendum that, if approved by voters, would levy a new tax. The new tax, if approved, is anticipated to be up to 20 cents per $100 of assessed property value. Across the Cleveland-Richland landscapes, signs have popped up both for and against the levy. Additionally, several large advertisements against the levy have been purchased by concerned citizens in the Tribune-News urging residents to vote against the levy.
The buzz in South Whitley for the past several days has been about the lawsuit regarding the alleged "illegal meeting" held by the Whitley County Council in July.
On that day, two meetings with two different votes took place, with different outcomes. The first meeting were held on July 28 at 8 a.m involving the proposed Whitko School Board referendum which we reported about on July 29 (click here to read it). The second meeting was held a short while later and the vote outcome was reversed.
Councilmen present for the meeting included Tom Western, Glen Larue, John Barrett, Jim Bayman and Kim Wheeler. Bayman was not present at the second meeting held that morning. Councilmen Jim Banks and Bill Overdeer were not present at either meeting.
Talk of the Town shared the details of both meetings on August 30 (click here to read it).
This week, Steve Sickafoose, Stan Sickafoose, Dale Haupert and Doug Reiff filed a lawsuit against the county council, commissioners and county attorney Dan Sigler asserting that the second meeting was illegal and, therefore, the vote should not stand.
Eventually, the case will be heard in Whitley Circuit Court, but not before the subject of the vote actually takes place. On Tuesday, Whitko District residents will vote on the referendum that, if approved by voters, would levy a new tax. The new tax, if approved, is anticipated to be up to 20 cents per $100 of assessed property value. Across the Cleveland-Richland landscapes, signs have popped up both for and against the levy. Additionally, several large advertisements against the levy have been purchased by concerned citizens in the Tribune-News urging residents to vote against the levy.
Painting the town with cheer for the Eagles!
Donors, needy families sought for Whitley County Sheriff's Reserves' 2010 Shop with a Sheriff program
(Talk of the Town file photo by Andrew Ferrell) The annual Shop with a Sheriff program, spearheaded by the Whitley County Sheriff's Reserves, seeks to connect local law enforcement officers with needy children during the holidays. A success in 2009, the Reserves are looking for families to help and donations to support the program this year. At last year's event, below, officer Greg Greaf greets a toddler who has filled her cart with needed clothes and Christmas gifts.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
You might not be thinking about YOUR Christmas shopping yet, but Whitley County Sheriff's Department employees and reserves are already concerned with Christmas shopping for some of the county's neediest young ones.
Each year, a large group of Whitley County Sheriff's Reserve members and other volunteers take local children out for an evening of Christmas shopping to get many of the items their families just cannot afford with their Shop with a Sheriff program. Sometimes it is a new set of clothes, warm winter mittens, school supplies or a new backpack -- all items they truly need and a few toys thrown in for good measure.
"We will take the kids shopping at Walmart a night in December," said reserve officer Tim Johnson of the Whitley County Sheriff's Reserves. Johnson, along with fellow reserve officer Tom Smith are working together to plan this year's event.
"We usually let them get a few toys but mainly clothes and school items or things that are needed around the house," Johnson said. "We try to do all kids in a family instead of picking just one or two from each."
"We took 22 kids last year shopping and would like to do more this year. That would be great," Johnson said, adding that each child received approximately $135 worth of items last year. As excited as the kids are to go shopping with the Whitley County Sheriff's Department officers and staff, the adults find it most rewarding. "We all had a blast doing it," he said of last year's shopping night.
Currently, the Whitley County Sheriff's Reserves are in need of two key things to make this year's program a success: donations and the names of families to serve.
"We are taking any donations that people could spare," Johnson said.
"We would love for people or business to actually adopt kids or I guess be a sponsor and donate $125 to cover one child," Johnson continued. Donors can also contribute gift cards or coupons for the family to use around the holidays.
Johnson said the Reserves are now looking for families to register for the program. "We need (to hear from) families that would benefit from this program," he said. "We just want people that have been laid off or in financial problems and the kids won't have a good Christmas this year."
"This whole program is to give kids the Christmas and good feeling that Tom and I have always had around the holidays," added Johnson. "So much nowadays kids don't get that love and attention as much as they should."
Donations for the program can be dropped off at the Whitley County Sheriff's Department or mailed to the Reserves with "Shop with a Sheriff" in the memo line. The mailing address is: Whitley County Sheriff's Reserves, 101 West Market Street, Columbia City IN 46725.
Families interested in registering for the program should contact Tim Johnson or Tom Smith at 244-6410 and leave a message.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
You might not be thinking about YOUR Christmas shopping yet, but Whitley County Sheriff's Department employees and reserves are already concerned with Christmas shopping for some of the county's neediest young ones.
Each year, a large group of Whitley County Sheriff's Reserve members and other volunteers take local children out for an evening of Christmas shopping to get many of the items their families just cannot afford with their Shop with a Sheriff program. Sometimes it is a new set of clothes, warm winter mittens, school supplies or a new backpack -- all items they truly need and a few toys thrown in for good measure.
"We will take the kids shopping at Walmart a night in December," said reserve officer Tim Johnson of the Whitley County Sheriff's Reserves. Johnson, along with fellow reserve officer Tom Smith are working together to plan this year's event.
"We usually let them get a few toys but mainly clothes and school items or things that are needed around the house," Johnson said. "We try to do all kids in a family instead of picking just one or two from each."
"We took 22 kids last year shopping and would like to do more this year. That would be great," Johnson said, adding that each child received approximately $135 worth of items last year. As excited as the kids are to go shopping with the Whitley County Sheriff's Department officers and staff, the adults find it most rewarding. "We all had a blast doing it," he said of last year's shopping night.
Currently, the Whitley County Sheriff's Reserves are in need of two key things to make this year's program a success: donations and the names of families to serve.
"We are taking any donations that people could spare," Johnson said.
"We would love for people or business to actually adopt kids or I guess be a sponsor and donate $125 to cover one child," Johnson continued. Donors can also contribute gift cards or coupons for the family to use around the holidays.
Johnson said the Reserves are now looking for families to register for the program. "We need (to hear from) families that would benefit from this program," he said. "We just want people that have been laid off or in financial problems and the kids won't have a good Christmas this year."
"This whole program is to give kids the Christmas and good feeling that Tom and I have always had around the holidays," added Johnson. "So much nowadays kids don't get that love and attention as much as they should."
Donations for the program can be dropped off at the Whitley County Sheriff's Department or mailed to the Reserves with "Shop with a Sheriff" in the memo line. The mailing address is: Whitley County Sheriff's Reserves, 101 West Market Street, Columbia City IN 46725.
Families interested in registering for the program should contact Tim Johnson or Tom Smith at 244-6410 and leave a message.
Fort Wayne Children's Choir launches its first satellite choir in Whitley County
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
In many ways, this is the beginning of something big, culturally, for Whitley County.
Local arts enthusiasts Becky Walter and Heidi Emmert are feeling a level of excitement that's palpable as they announce the launch of the Whitley County Children's Lyric Choir.
"Whitley County has been selected by the Fort Wayne Children’s Choir to be its very first satellite choir," Walter said Wednesday evening.
"Lyric Choir is an audition-only after-school program where students will experience expanded vocal training, two-part singing, sight-reading skills and basic music theory," Walter continued.
"The Lyric Choir will be directed by Mrs. Heidi Emmert of Columbia City and will rehearse at the Columbia City United Methodist Church. This choir is our 'opening act' for Whitley County as we plan to open choirs for older and younger students in the near future," said Walter excitedly. Both Walter and Emmert are well-known vocalists locally and they're eager to share their knowledge with children.
A call-out meeting for prospective participants and their parents is set for Monday, November 1, at 6:30 p.m. at Columbia City United Methodist Church. The choir will be open to any student ages 8 to 10 in Whitley County -- including students enrolled in public school, private school or homeschooled. Following the informational parent meeting, audition dates will be selected for late November.
"Lyric Choir will begin rehearsals in January," Walter said. "There will be one rehearsal per week."
Yearly tuition will be set at $460, but because the program begins in January this year, tuition for Lyric Choir will be $230.
Walter added that income-based scholarships are available through FWCC. Uniforms will be $85 and they are required. A uniform fitting will take place in early February. After the informational parent meeting, audition dates will be selected in late November.
For additional information about the Whitley County Children's Lyric Choir, contact Heidi Emmert at 244-4375 or Becky Walter at 248-2045.
In many ways, this is the beginning of something big, culturally, for Whitley County.
Local arts enthusiasts Becky Walter and Heidi Emmert are feeling a level of excitement that's palpable as they announce the launch of the Whitley County Children's Lyric Choir.
"Whitley County has been selected by the Fort Wayne Children’s Choir to be its very first satellite choir," Walter said Wednesday evening.
"Lyric Choir is an audition-only after-school program where students will experience expanded vocal training, two-part singing, sight-reading skills and basic music theory," Walter continued.
"The Lyric Choir will be directed by Mrs. Heidi Emmert of Columbia City and will rehearse at the Columbia City United Methodist Church. This choir is our 'opening act' for Whitley County as we plan to open choirs for older and younger students in the near future," said Walter excitedly. Both Walter and Emmert are well-known vocalists locally and they're eager to share their knowledge with children.
A call-out meeting for prospective participants and their parents is set for Monday, November 1, at 6:30 p.m. at Columbia City United Methodist Church. The choir will be open to any student ages 8 to 10 in Whitley County -- including students enrolled in public school, private school or homeschooled. Following the informational parent meeting, audition dates will be selected for late November.
"Lyric Choir will begin rehearsals in January," Walter said. "There will be one rehearsal per week."
Yearly tuition will be set at $460, but because the program begins in January this year, tuition for Lyric Choir will be $230.
Walter added that income-based scholarships are available through FWCC. Uniforms will be $85 and they are required. A uniform fitting will take place in early February. After the informational parent meeting, audition dates will be selected in late November.
For additional information about the Whitley County Children's Lyric Choir, contact Heidi Emmert at 244-4375 or Becky Walter at 248-2045.
VeggieTales creator to speak at Huntington University's Forester Lecture Series
By Ashley Smith
Phil Vischer, best known as the creative genius behind the VeggieTales series, will be the featured speaker for the Forester Lectures Series at 7 p.m. Nov. 9. The lecture will take place in the Zurcher Auditorium of the Merillat Centre for the Arts on the Huntington University campus.
Vischer’s original company, Big Idea Productions, launched the VeggieTales series in 1991 and today VeggieTales videos, some 50 million, can be found in one-third of all American homes with young children. His current venture, Jellyfish Labs, produces and develops media content geared toward helping children grow in the Christian faith.
His presentation, titled “My Life as a Tomato,” will recount his experiences with Big Idea Productions and reflect on his contributions to the world of character animation and Christian filmmaking.
Huntington University presents the Forester Lecture Series each semester. The lectures are designed to bring interesting individuals and topics to the attention of students and the regional community. The Forester Lecture Series is free and open to the public.
The Forester Lecture Series is coordinated by Dr. Jeff Webb, professor of history at Huntington University. For more information, contact Webb at (260) 359-4243.
Phil Vischer, best known as the creative genius behind the VeggieTales series, will be the featured speaker for the Forester Lectures Series at 7 p.m. Nov. 9. The lecture will take place in the Zurcher Auditorium of the Merillat Centre for the Arts on the Huntington University campus.
Vischer’s original company, Big Idea Productions, launched the VeggieTales series in 1991 and today VeggieTales videos, some 50 million, can be found in one-third of all American homes with young children. His current venture, Jellyfish Labs, produces and develops media content geared toward helping children grow in the Christian faith.
His presentation, titled “My Life as a Tomato,” will recount his experiences with Big Idea Productions and reflect on his contributions to the world of character animation and Christian filmmaking.
Huntington University presents the Forester Lecture Series each semester. The lectures are designed to bring interesting individuals and topics to the attention of students and the regional community. The Forester Lecture Series is free and open to the public.
The Forester Lecture Series is coordinated by Dr. Jeff Webb, professor of history at Huntington University. For more information, contact Webb at (260) 359-4243.
October 27, 2010
Trick or treating dates and times for 2010
(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
As a reminder, here is the list of trick or treat hours for local communities:
Churubusco
The Churubusco Town Council has set the Trick or Treat hours in Churubusco for 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Halloween night, Sunday, October 31. Residents who wish to hand out treats should turn on their front porch light. Motorists should take extreme caution. 
Columbia City
The City of Columbia City will observe Halloween on Saturday, October 30, from 6 to 8 p.m. All participating homes will have porch lights on.Larwill
Larwill residents will open their doors to trick or treaters on Saturday, October 30, from 5 to 7 p.m.South Whitley
South Whitley trick or treaters will be going door to door on Sunday, October 31, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.Pierceton
Residents of Pierceton will be trick or treating on Saturday, October 30, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.Sidney
Residents of Sidney will welcome trick or treaters from 5 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, October 30.Whitley County Consolidated School board candidates address the issues
'Spooktacular' is Saturday at Kent Theatre
Friends of a local political campaign are pulling out the stops for a unique event in South Whitley on Saturday afternoon.
The Doug Fahl for Judge Fan Club is hosting a "Spooktacular" event at the Kent Theatre in South Whitley from noon to 2 p.m. Admission is free.
All guests will enjoy candy, fun prizes for the best costumes, free popcorn and soft drinks and a private screening of the movie "Monster House."
The Doug Fahl for Judge Fan Club is hosting a "Spooktacular" event at the Kent Theatre in South Whitley from noon to 2 p.m. Admission is free.
All guests will enjoy candy, fun prizes for the best costumes, free popcorn and soft drinks and a private screening of the movie "Monster House."
Voters gathered to meet local candidates Monday night
VFW hosting chili cookoff, Halloween party
The VFW hall in Columbia City will be hosting a Halloween party on Saturday, October 30, from 6 to 11 p.m.
The community is invited to attend and enjoy a chili cookoff, costume contest, pumpkin carving contest and karaoke with Tim Lude. If you'd like to compete in the chili cookoff, bring a pot of chili to share. Bring your carved pumpkin to enter in that contest as well.
The VFW hall is located on Chicago Street on the south side of Columbia City.
The community is invited to attend and enjoy a chili cookoff, costume contest, pumpkin carving contest and karaoke with Tim Lude. If you'd like to compete in the chili cookoff, bring a pot of chili to share. Bring your carved pumpkin to enter in that contest as well.
The VFW hall is located on Chicago Street on the south side of Columbia City.
Orizon office hosting children's Halloween open house on Saturday evening
Article provided
Orizon Real Estate will host a Halloween Open House at their Garland Avenue office in Columbia City from 6-8 p.m. this Saturday, October 30.
Children are welcome to wear their costumes and enjoy games, prizes, refreshments and candy. The Orizon Real Estate office is located at 518 Garland Avenue (near Arby's and Sherri's Place) in Columbia City.
Whitley County Sheriff's Reserves hosting pancake, sausage breakfast Saturday
From reports
The Whitley County Sheriff's Reserves will be hosting a pancake and sausage breakfast this Saturday, October 30 from 6 to 10:30 a.m. at the Whitley County 4-H Center building.
"We serve pancakes, sausage and scrambled eggs," said reserve officer Tim Johnson. "All money raised will go into the Reserve Fund for equipment and training."
Adult breakfasts will be $7, children ages 5 to 12 eat for $3.50 each and children ages 4 and under eat for free.
The Whitley County Sheriff's Reserves will be hosting a pancake and sausage breakfast this Saturday, October 30 from 6 to 10:30 a.m. at the Whitley County 4-H Center building.
"We serve pancakes, sausage and scrambled eggs," said reserve officer Tim Johnson. "All money raised will go into the Reserve Fund for equipment and training."
Adult breakfasts will be $7, children ages 5 to 12 eat for $3.50 each and children ages 4 and under eat for free.
The aftermath of Tuesday's storm
Snapshots: Storm damage in Collins
October 26, 2010
Phegleys honored with 2010 Whitley County Friend of 4-H Award
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Noel and Gloria Phegley, above, owners of the local NAPA store, were presented the 2010 Whitley County Friend of 4-H Award.
By Gloria Reimer
The Whitley County 4-H Achievement Program was October 18, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. at the 4-H Center.
Refreshments of cookies and punch were served before the program by 4-H Council.
Dave Addison presented the program with Tiffany Schuman leading the American pledge and Katie Barnett leading the 4-H pledge. Special achievement pins were given to 4-H members and leaders for their accomplishments in the program. These pins are provided by Whitley County Farm Bureau, Whitley County 4-H Club, Inc. and Whitley County Extension Homemakers.
Noel and Gloria Phegley, owners of NAPA was given the Whitley County Friend of 4-H award.
Over the years, the Phegleys have helped with many different 4-H activities through donations and their involvement with supporting 4-H. They enjoy the 4-H program and are a great asset to our community.
Door prizes of scarecrows and candles were given out by 4-H Council.
Click the red link below to read all of the awards presented during the 2010 Whitley County 4-H Achievement Program.
2010 ACHIEVEMENT WINNERS
ACHIEVEMENT BOOK – Holly KylerARTS & CRAFTS - FINE ARTS – Dylan Cozad, Danielle Graves
MODELS – Isaiah Kreider
NEEDLECRAFT – Samantha Hartman
OTHER CRAFT – Michelle Kelsey
BEEF – Jeff Gruettert, Justin Hinen, Elijah McDevitt, Megan Schroeder
BICYCLE – Katie Barnett, Sarah Marchand
BOWLING – Jared Kreider, Rebecca Laux, Mikalah Reimer
CAKE DECORATING – Beginner – Alexis Asfour
Intermediate – Elaine Warner
Advanced – Lauren Shively
CAT – Jessica Wietfeldt
CHILD DEVELOPMENT – Makayla Wakeman
COLLECTIONS – Jessica Shelby, Ben Western
COMPUTER – Luke Shively
CONSUMER CLOTHING – Brittany Laux
CROPS – Danielle Oliver
DAIRY – Chelsey Hartman Nicodemus
DAIRY STEER – Tyler Johnson, Ethan Lomont, Alyson Nicodemus
DAIRY STEER FEEDER CALF – Majenica Geiger, Trey Hinen, Holly Kyler, Erica Nicodemus,
Kelzie Sheetz, Ashlyn Wells, Jacob Wigent
DEMONSTRATION–ACTION/CONTEST – Laura Nagle
DOG – Bailie Brown
DOG POSTER – Katie Barnett
ELECTRIC – Jordan Chapple, Dayvid Myers
ENTOMOLOGY – Madison Barshaw
FASHION REVUE –– Holly Kyler, Alivia Roberts, Amelia Roman, Kayla Rothgeb
FLORICULTURE – Olivia Western
FOODS/BAKED PRODUCT – Rachel Atkins, Holly Kyler, Grace McDevitt, Becca Miller, Gavin Parish,
Jennifer Sherbahn, Michael Sproles, Lane Wolf
FOODS/PRESERVED PRODUCT – April Gibson, Libby Peterson
FORESTRY – Michael Sproles
GARDEN – Elijah McDevitt, Danielle Oliver
GENEALOGY – Erica Shively
GEOLOGY – Adam Patrick
GIFT WRAPPING – April Gibson
GOAT – Hannah Bridegam, Skylar Campbell, April Gibson, Sarah Peterson
GOAT POSTER – April Gibson
HEALTH – Sarah Palmer
HOME ENVIRONMENT – Macayla Cramer
HORSE & PONY –Samantha Eberly, Rachel Perry, Lauren Shively, Kennedy St.George
JUNIOR LEADERS – Holly Kyler, Jared Lamle, Rachel Thompson
MICROWAVE COOKING – Ellen Bernhard
PERSONALITY – Rachel Atkins (Continue)
PETROLEUM POWER – Rachel Atkins
PETS – Samantha Hochstetler
PHOTOGRAPHY – Brooke Alexander, Micheal Campbell, Dylan Cozad, Arielle Griswold, Kayli Hare,
Erin Knepple, Holly Kyler, Sarah Marchand, Hannah Schaefer, Lauren Shively,
Alexa Working
POULTRY – McKenna Barshaw, Ellen Bernhard, Cole Nix
POULTRY SCIENCE – Mason VanHouten
RABBIT – Katie Barnett, Haylee Gardner, Crystal VanHouten, Ben Western, Olivia Western
RABBIT POSTER – Olivia Western
ROCKETRY – Gretchen Meinzen
SCRAPBOOKING – Brooklyn Pettigrew, Anatasia Rice
SEWING – Basics – April Bishop, Veronica Palmer
Advanced – Alivia Gruettert
SEWING – Non Wearable – Samantha Engle, Gretchen Meinzen
SHEEP – Jackie Leeuw, Megan Schroeder
SHOOTING SPORTS – Travis Chalk, Tyler Jordan
SMALL ENGINES – Abigail Atkins
SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION – Michael Sproles
SPORT FISHING – Rachel Atkins
SWINE – Mariah Hantz, Brandon Johnson, Jared Lamle, Jacob Leedy, Jarin Myer, Grace McDevitt,
Hannah Rupert, Courtney Schinbeckler, Brittney Yagel
TEN YEAR PROJECT – Jacob Leedy
VETERINARY SCIENCE – Ellen Bernhard
WEATHER – Tiffany Schuman
WEEDS – Jessica Shelby
WILDLIFE – Sarah Marchand
WOODWORKING – Libby Peterson, Evan VanHouten
2010 ACHIEVEMENT BOOKS
~ JUNIOR DIVISION ~
1st Year: Boys – ZACHARY GARDNER – Blue
2nd Year: Girls – LENAH BECK – Champion/Reserve Grand Champion
3rd Year: Girls – SARAH PALMER – Reserve Champion
4th Year: Girls – VERONICA PALMER – Blue
~ SENIOR DIVISION ~
Rabbit HAYLEE GARDNER – Reserve Champion
Achievement HOLLY KYLER – Champion/Grand Champion
Special Awards
KROGER CULINARY AWARD – Hope Eberly
INDIANA KEY CLUB AWARD – Katie Barnett, Holly Kyler, Jennifer Sherbahn, Olivia Western
INDIANA ACCOMPLISHMENT SCHOLARSHIP – Katie Barnett –Sheep
INDIANA ACCOMPLISHMENT FINALISTS – Olivia Western – Horticulture, Olivia Western – Rabbit, Katie Barnett- Small Animals
STATE FAIR ACHIEVEMENT TRIP – Rachel Atkins – Rabbit Illustrated Talk
NATIONAL 4- H CONGRESS TRIP – Olivia Western
2010 4-H and COUNTY PROJECT LEADERS
1 yr. Pamela Connelly-Castle – Horse & Pony
1 yr. Rochelle Engle – Horse & Pony
1 yr. Charlie Hantz – Horse & Pony
1 yr. Andrew Nicodemus – Dairy
1 yr. Katrina Osterman – Horse & Pony
1 yr. Britte Stein – Horse & Pony
2 yrs. Matt Gibson – Beef
2 yrs. Margaret Gilbert – Dairy Steer/Feeder Calf
2 yrs. Felicia Kinney – Columbia City Clovers
2 yrs. Kendal Klopfenstein – Etna-Troy Hustlers
2 yrs. Mark Thomas – Shooting Sports
2 yrs. Vicki Western – Etna-Troy Hustlers
3 yrs. Joyce Bernhard – Poultry
3 yrs. Ronda Sroufe – Richland Ramblers
3 yrs. Vicki Western – Vet Science
4 yrs. Diane Bollinger – Scrapbooking
4 yrs. Tina Fulk – Smith Worker Bees
4 yrs. A.J. Reust – Beef
4 yrs. Angie Sheets – Etna-Troy Willing Hearts
4 yrs. Lisa Thompson – Mini
4 yrs. Audra Thomas – Mini
4 yrs. Martha Vance – Mini
5 yrs. Trinna Keener – Smith Harvesters
5 yrs. Michele Miller – Columbia Peaches
5 yrs. Angel O’Reilly – Mini
5 yrs. Mike Puckett – Sheep
7 yrs. Jody Klopfenstein – Etna-Troy Hustlers
7 yrs. Melissa Nagle – Mini
8 yrs. Tracy Laux – Scrapbooking
8 yrs. Yvette Palmer – Etna-Troy Willing Hearts
8 yrs. June Stephens – Cat
9 yrs. Lynnette Bridegam – Jefferson Hustlers
9 yrs. Jennifer Dziabis – Jefferson Hi-Flyers
9 yrs. Rick Michel – Poultry
9 yrs. Karen Sherbahn – Jefferson Hustlers
9 yrs. Marvin Sims – Swine
10 yrs. Jacki Bishop – Cleveland Showmen
10 yrs. Karen Blake – Thorncreek Sons of the Soil
10 yrs. Merrie Parish – Thorncreek Sons of the Soil
12 yrs. Karen Hoffman – Smith Worker Bees
13 yrs. Dennis & Joy Bennett – Electric (Workshops)
13 yrs. Rosey Conley – Cake Decorating (Workshops)
13 yrs. Dan Miller – Goat
14 yrs. David Addison – Junior Leaders
14 yrs. Dennis & Joy Bennett – Thorncreek Northern Stars
15 yrs. Dan & Lori Miller – Smith Hoosiers
15 yrs. Jerry Zorger – Petroleum Power
16 yrs. Steve Beck – Rocketry
16 yrs. Dee Moore – Genealogy (Workshops)
17 yrs. Jayne Oliver – Union Sodbusters
19 yrs. Audrey Engle – Columbia City Clovers
19 yrs. Sandy Rumsyre – Cake Decorating (Workshops)
21 yrs. Eric Blank – Bicycle
21 yrs. Vickie Galloway – Dog
22 yrs. Lucy Draper – Washington 4-H Busters
22 yrs. Ethel Miller – Bowling
22 yrs. Sandy Rumsyre –Washington Blue Ribbon
22 yrs. Kim Zorger – Petroleum Power
23 yrs. Jerry Ziegler – Rabbit
24 yrs. Brenda McBride – Columbia Peaches
A day of devastation in central Whitley County
Damage reported in Churubusco
(Talk of the Town photo by BuscoVoice.com)
Severe damage from this morning's storm has been reported in Churubusco as well. Above, a piece of wood was impaled into the back of a house on Anderson Road near Churubusco. Barns were damaged in the area as well.
School board candidate forum is tonight at CCHS
Before you head into the voting booth next month or send in those absentee ballots, consider attending the Whitley County Consolidated Schools Board Candidates’ Forum at Columbia City High School this evening.
Hosted by the Whitley County Community Foundation, the event will take place tonight, October 26, at 7 p.m. at the CCHS Auditorium. The high school is located at 600 N. Whitley Street.
In all, nine candidates are running for four available seats on the WCCS board of trustees. Two seats are open in Columbia City. The four candidates seeking those spots include Don Armstrong, Herschel Lee Aumsbaugh, Christopher Alan Bechtold and Eric Horvath. In Thorncreek Township, Richard W. Eckert, Leah C. Heaston and Brooks Langeloh will vie for one open seat. Voters will choose between Timothy J. Bloom and Terry L. Smith for the Columbia Township seat.
Three of the candidates are incumbents: Don Armstrong, Tim Bloom, and Brooks Langeloh. As of press time, each incumbent has agreed to participate in the forum, as have challengers Christopher Bechtold and Eric Horvath. Terry Smith and Richard Eckert indicated they will be out of town. Leah Heaston and Herschel Lee Aumsbaugh have not responded to the invitation.
Each candidate present will be given time to express their views, making short speeches and answer questions.
Hosted by the Whitley County Community Foundation, the event will take place tonight, October 26, at 7 p.m. at the CCHS Auditorium. The high school is located at 600 N. Whitley Street.
In all, nine candidates are running for four available seats on the WCCS board of trustees. Two seats are open in Columbia City. The four candidates seeking those spots include Don Armstrong, Herschel Lee Aumsbaugh, Christopher Alan Bechtold and Eric Horvath. In Thorncreek Township, Richard W. Eckert, Leah C. Heaston and Brooks Langeloh will vie for one open seat. Voters will choose between Timothy J. Bloom and Terry L. Smith for the Columbia Township seat.
Three of the candidates are incumbents: Don Armstrong, Tim Bloom, and Brooks Langeloh. As of press time, each incumbent has agreed to participate in the forum, as have challengers Christopher Bechtold and Eric Horvath. Terry Smith and Richard Eckert indicated they will be out of town. Leah Heaston and Herschel Lee Aumsbaugh have not responded to the invitation.
Each candidate present will be given time to express their views, making short speeches and answer questions.
Storm causes transmission problems, downed lines in REMC service area
The severe storm that swept through the area this morning has created outages throughout Northeastern REMC’s service area. Crews are working to restore power to over 4500 members affected in Whitley and Allen Counties.
The areas most affected lie north and west of Columbia City due to damaged transmission lines. Northeastern is working with Indiana Michigan Power to repair lines and restore service as quickly as possible.
Many areas are reporting downed power lines and broken utility poles. Northeastern reminds the public to stay completely away from all downed power lines. Contact with these lines can be fatal. If you see a downed power line, call your electric company to report its location.
The areas most affected lie north and west of Columbia City due to damaged transmission lines. Northeastern is working with Indiana Michigan Power to repair lines and restore service as quickly as possible.
Many areas are reporting downed power lines and broken utility poles. Northeastern reminds the public to stay completely away from all downed power lines. Contact with these lines can be fatal. If you see a downed power line, call your electric company to report its location.
Damaging winds reported in Whitley County
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
A brisk storm just moved through Whitley County, leaving a mess behind.
Emergency sirens began sounding just moments before the storm hit, sending residents to their basements or to other safe locations.
Local residents are reporting power outages at Columbia City High School, Tri Lakes and other areas.
Wind, during the worst of the storm, was estimated to have gusts of 70 mph. Limbs and trees are down in many areas.
Talk of the Town will continue to have updates as they are available.
A brisk storm just moved through Whitley County, leaving a mess behind.
Emergency sirens began sounding just moments before the storm hit, sending residents to their basements or to other safe locations.
Local residents are reporting power outages at Columbia City High School, Tri Lakes and other areas.
Wind, during the worst of the storm, was estimated to have gusts of 70 mph. Limbs and trees are down in many areas.
Talk of the Town will continue to have updates as they are available.
CCHS Girls Cross Country is State Finals bound
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Above, the Columbia City High School Girls Cross Country team celebrates another win. The team will travel to Terre Haute Friday to prepare for the State Finals. Above, from left in front is, Erin Knepple, Brooke Werstler and Samantha Roush. Row two, from left, is Coach Tim Hearld, Heather Shew, Carlee Hearld, Samantha Engle, Rachel Menzie and Coach Bob Fahl.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Congratulations to the Columbia City High School Girls Cross Country team which qualified for the State Finals over the weekend.
"The top 6 teams from semi-state advanced to state," said a very pleased Coach Tim Hearld. "Columbia City placed third."
Renee Menzie and Samantha Roush placed in the top 15 and will advance to the State Finals as individuals as well.
Hearld said the team will leave Columbia City on Friday. Once they arrive in Terre Haute, they'll spend time practicing on the course there.
This marks the second consecutive year the Columbia City High School Girls Cross Country team has competed at the State Finals.
DeMoney-Grimes hosts very special Halloween party for grieving children
(Talk of the Town photos provided) Above, attendees at the DeMoney-Grimes' children's Halloween party show their pumpkins in front of the memory tree. 
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Last week, DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral home staff welcomed grieving children of the community with open arms for a very special Halloween party held in their honor.
According to Sharon Brockhaus of DeMoney-Grimes, 30 people attended the event, including 17 children.
"The kids ranged in age from 3-16 and had were here because they either had a death of a parent, sibling or grandparent," Brockhaus said.
"We made memory pumpkins and ghost to hang on our memory trees, played Halloween Bingo," Brockhaus said. "We made ghosts from their feet and attached a card with a note to their loved one not to be scared that it was just their foot not a real ghost."
"They also pinned a heart on a skeleton and had a treasure hunt," Brockhaus added.
"It was a great time for all," Brockhaus said.
Tornado watch in effect for Whitley County until 4 p.m. today, high winds an issue as well
From reports
According to the National Weather Service, a tornado watch is in effect until 4 p.m. today for Whitley County and surrounding counties. Residents are also urged to remain cautious of high winds throughout the day as well.
According to the National Weather Service, a tornado watch is in effect until 4 p.m. today for Whitley County and surrounding counties. Residents are also urged to remain cautious of high winds throughout the day as well.
Whitley County-based Sites Medical reaches product development milestone
Article provided
Whitley County-based Sites Medical LLC announced Monday that the company has successfully completed the first surgeries with medical devices containing its proprietary BioSync™ technologies.
“Our company is focused on evaluating, developing, and marketing creative materials, therapeutics, and other patient focused technologies within the medical device marketplace,” said Sites Medical president & CEO Greg Stalcup. “This milestone demonstrates that we are on the right track in order to be successful in our long term objectives.”
The company is working with domestic and global partners to further establish its pipeline of technologies and soon plans to begin manufacturing in Indiana. Relationships with partners in the sports medicine and spine segments are supporting additional applications of the company’s BioSync™ technologies.
“We are growing organically and through key relationships with domestic and global partners,” said Stalcup. “Our experienced team and strong investor backing will support continued growth and success in 2010 and beyond.”
Sites Medical has also achieved ISO 13485 certification and completed a recent surveillance audit of the company’s comprehensive management system for the design and manufacture of medical devices.
Sites Medical LLC is located within the OrthoVation Center, a facility announced earlier this year to provide office space and support service for emerging companies in the medical device industry.
The company received a $1 million grant from the state’s 21st Century Research and Technology Fund in 2006 to aid in commercialization of the BioSync™ technology. In 2009 Sites’ sister company S-Med also received a $1 million grant from the fund to develop tissue attachment and therapeutic delivery technologies.
“Sites Medical is a showcase of the 21 Fund’s mission to accelerate the commercialization of life-altering technology in Indiana,” said Mitch Roob, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. “The advancement of this technology holds great implications for orthopedic patients, but also the diversification of our state’s economy.”
Whitley County Commissioners and County Council have approved a multi-year, CEDIT-based incentive to support the growth of Sites Medical in Whitley County.
“Whitley County is committed to growing medical device manufacturing, product development, and support companies,” said County Commissioner Mike Schrader. “We will continue to work with Sites Medical to encourage the company’s success in our community.”
Sites Medical’s primary focus is to develop innovative solutions to benefit the orthopedic patient and surgeon. Technologies currently under development are focused on spine, sports medicine and orthopedic oncology (bone cancer). Working with surgeon and industry partners, Sites Medical aspires to become the premier technology and product provider within the medical marketplace.
Whitley County-based Sites Medical LLC announced Monday that the company has successfully completed the first surgeries with medical devices containing its proprietary BioSync™ technologies.
“Our company is focused on evaluating, developing, and marketing creative materials, therapeutics, and other patient focused technologies within the medical device marketplace,” said Sites Medical president & CEO Greg Stalcup. “This milestone demonstrates that we are on the right track in order to be successful in our long term objectives.”
The company is working with domestic and global partners to further establish its pipeline of technologies and soon plans to begin manufacturing in Indiana. Relationships with partners in the sports medicine and spine segments are supporting additional applications of the company’s BioSync™ technologies.
“We are growing organically and through key relationships with domestic and global partners,” said Stalcup. “Our experienced team and strong investor backing will support continued growth and success in 2010 and beyond.”
Sites Medical has also achieved ISO 13485 certification and completed a recent surveillance audit of the company’s comprehensive management system for the design and manufacture of medical devices.
Sites Medical LLC is located within the OrthoVation Center, a facility announced earlier this year to provide office space and support service for emerging companies in the medical device industry.
The company received a $1 million grant from the state’s 21st Century Research and Technology Fund in 2006 to aid in commercialization of the BioSync™ technology. In 2009 Sites’ sister company S-Med also received a $1 million grant from the fund to develop tissue attachment and therapeutic delivery technologies.
“Sites Medical is a showcase of the 21 Fund’s mission to accelerate the commercialization of life-altering technology in Indiana,” said Mitch Roob, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. “The advancement of this technology holds great implications for orthopedic patients, but also the diversification of our state’s economy.”
Whitley County Commissioners and County Council have approved a multi-year, CEDIT-based incentive to support the growth of Sites Medical in Whitley County.
“Whitley County is committed to growing medical device manufacturing, product development, and support companies,” said County Commissioner Mike Schrader. “We will continue to work with Sites Medical to encourage the company’s success in our community.”
Sites Medical’s primary focus is to develop innovative solutions to benefit the orthopedic patient and surgeon. Technologies currently under development are focused on spine, sports medicine and orthopedic oncology (bone cancer). Working with surgeon and industry partners, Sites Medical aspires to become the premier technology and product provider within the medical marketplace.
A community celebrates as Baby Gemma Ridge goes home with her family
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Tiny Gemma Ridge, below, was released from the hospital Monday.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Many hearts are happy in Whitley County today as little Gemma Ridge will be released from the hospital Monday to go home with her family.
Born prematurely on June 2, Baby Gemma has fought to survive. Sadly, Jason and Danielle (Schmitt) Ridge's two sons also born that day did not survive.
"Gemma is a 5% baby. She had a 5% chance of making it and she did. Most of us face better odds each day of our life. She wanted it, though, and I’m so thankful she did. I’m a better person because Gemma entered our life way back in June," wrote Gemma's father, Jason, on his blog entry Monday.
The Ridges kept a blog throughout their family's experience, documenting each up and down in Gemma's life.
To read more of what he's written about his family's experience, click here.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Many hearts are happy in Whitley County today as little Gemma Ridge will be released from the hospital Monday to go home with her family.
Born prematurely on June 2, Baby Gemma has fought to survive. Sadly, Jason and Danielle (Schmitt) Ridge's two sons also born that day did not survive.
"Gemma is a 5% baby. She had a 5% chance of making it and she did. Most of us face better odds each day of our life. She wanted it, though, and I’m so thankful she did. I’m a better person because Gemma entered our life way back in June," wrote Gemma's father, Jason, on his blog entry Monday.
The Ridges kept a blog throughout their family's experience, documenting each up and down in Gemma's life.
To read more of what he's written about his family's experience, click here.
October 25, 2010
Snapshots: Leadership Whitley County in action
Many candidates have confirmed attendance at 'Meet the Candidates' forum tonight at Peabody Public Library
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
If you still haven't decided who you'll be voting for next week or if you'd like to simply meet a few of the local candidates seeking public office, plan to attend the 'Meet the Candidates' event tonight from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Peabody Public Library.
Organized by the Fort Wayne Area Association of Realtors, the event is open to all Whitley County residents who'd like to learn more about the candidates in the upcoming election.
According to Pone Vongphachanh, governmental affairs director with the Fort Wayne Area Association of Realtors, quite a few local candidates have confirmed their attendance tonight, including, John Barrett, Deborah Beers, Janet Hindbaugh, Jennifer McGuire, James Prentice, Michael Schrader, George Schrumpf, Kathy Heuer, Jim Banks and Glen LaRue.
All local candidates received an invitation from the Fort Wayne Area Association of Realtors to attend the event.
If you still haven't decided who you'll be voting for next week or if you'd like to simply meet a few of the local candidates seeking public office, plan to attend the 'Meet the Candidates' event tonight from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Peabody Public Library.
Organized by the Fort Wayne Area Association of Realtors, the event is open to all Whitley County residents who'd like to learn more about the candidates in the upcoming election.
According to Pone Vongphachanh, governmental affairs director with the Fort Wayne Area Association of Realtors, quite a few local candidates have confirmed their attendance tonight, including, John Barrett, Deborah Beers, Janet Hindbaugh, Jennifer McGuire, James Prentice, Michael Schrader, George Schrumpf, Kathy Heuer, Jim Banks and Glen LaRue.
All local candidates received an invitation from the Fort Wayne Area Association of Realtors to attend the event.
At odds over cost, labor and maintenance, Chamber and City agree to end Wonderland of Lights
Article provided
After 10 years in existence, the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce and the City of Columbia City have together decided to bring to a close the Wonderland of Lights Festival held each holiday season at Morsches Park.
Over those years, more than 90 light displays have been donated to the Chamber in support of this event, helping to make a wonderful lasting memory for our community.
Unfortunately, maintenance, labor, electricity costs, and the deterioration of light display are key factors in coming to this decision, according to Sara Lochner-Goff, president of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce.
“This was a difficult and long thought-out decision,” said Lochner-Goff. “Meetings and discussions between the City and the Chamber have been happening for several months,” said Lochner-Goff.
Although, by agreement, the light displays were gifted to the Chamber, the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce board of directors would like to offer those who donated a light to the festival the opportunity to claim their display, if they so desire. If you would like to claim your display, please contact Columbia City Parks director Mark Green at 248-5180 to set up a pick-up time. Dates available for pick-up will be Fridays, November 12 and November 19.
Any lights remaining after November 19 will be sold by the Chamber, and the monies will be used to fund other Chamber projects.
"An attempt will be made to notify all those who donated a display over the years, but we realize we may not have current contact information for all contributors," Lochner-Goff said.
“If you know of someone who has contributed a light to the festival over the years, please help us by contacting them and making them aware of the dates above,” added Lochner-Goff.
Both the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce and the City of Columbia City thank all the businesses for their past involvement.
After 10 years in existence, the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce and the City of Columbia City have together decided to bring to a close the Wonderland of Lights Festival held each holiday season at Morsches Park.
Over those years, more than 90 light displays have been donated to the Chamber in support of this event, helping to make a wonderful lasting memory for our community.
Unfortunately, maintenance, labor, electricity costs, and the deterioration of light display are key factors in coming to this decision, according to Sara Lochner-Goff, president of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce.
“This was a difficult and long thought-out decision,” said Lochner-Goff. “Meetings and discussions between the City and the Chamber have been happening for several months,” said Lochner-Goff.
Although, by agreement, the light displays were gifted to the Chamber, the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce board of directors would like to offer those who donated a light to the festival the opportunity to claim their display, if they so desire. If you would like to claim your display, please contact Columbia City Parks director Mark Green at 248-5180 to set up a pick-up time. Dates available for pick-up will be Fridays, November 12 and November 19.
Any lights remaining after November 19 will be sold by the Chamber, and the monies will be used to fund other Chamber projects.
"An attempt will be made to notify all those who donated a display over the years, but we realize we may not have current contact information for all contributors," Lochner-Goff said.
“If you know of someone who has contributed a light to the festival over the years, please help us by contacting them and making them aware of the dates above,” added Lochner-Goff.
Both the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce and the City of Columbia City thank all the businesses for their past involvement.
Columbia City High School cheerleaders hope to share school spirit through decoration of local businesses
From reports
The Columbia City High School varsity cheerleaders will decorating local businesses this week to show their support to the Eagles football team playing in the second round of sectionals.
If you are a local business and would like your windows decorated, please contact head coach Kayla Hogue at 229-1624.
Also, on Friday, October 29, from 4-5 p.m., the cheerleaders will be out front of the high school to decorate the windows of any cars wanting to show their “Eagle Spirit” for the trip to Angola. Any fan is welcome to stop by.
After cheering the Eagles to a victory over Angola on Friday night, the cheerleaders will travel to Pendleton Heights High School on Saturday to compete in preliminary competition with the hopes of advancing to the state championships on November 6 in New Castle.
The Columbia City High School varsity cheerleaders will decorating local businesses this week to show their support to the Eagles football team playing in the second round of sectionals.
If you are a local business and would like your windows decorated, please contact head coach Kayla Hogue at 229-1624.
Also, on Friday, October 29, from 4-5 p.m., the cheerleaders will be out front of the high school to decorate the windows of any cars wanting to show their “Eagle Spirit” for the trip to Angola. Any fan is welcome to stop by.
After cheering the Eagles to a victory over Angola on Friday night, the cheerleaders will travel to Pendleton Heights High School on Saturday to compete in preliminary competition with the hopes of advancing to the state championships on November 6 in New Castle.
Hot Reuben sandwiches available for two days this week at the CC Deli
As promised, Steve and Sharon Hostetler are continuing their offering of new menu items each week this month at the CC Deli. This week's addition will be hot Reuben sandwiches.
The Reuben sandwiches will be available on Tuesday and Wednesday this week and will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. both days.
What follows are the CC Deli soups of the week:
Monday: Potato Bacon and French Onion
Tuesday: Stuffed Pepper and Chicken Dumpling
Wednesday: White Chili and Tomato Tortellini
Thursday: Chicken Rice and Cheesy Potato
Friday: Veggie Beef and Cream of Crab
The Reuben sandwiches will be available on Tuesday and Wednesday this week and will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. both days.
What follows are the CC Deli soups of the week:
Monday: Potato Bacon and French Onion
Tuesday: Stuffed Pepper and Chicken Dumpling
Wednesday: White Chili and Tomato Tortellini
Thursday: Chicken Rice and Cheesy Potato
Friday: Veggie Beef and Cream of Crab
Horvath seeks seat on WCCS board of trustees
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Eric Horvath of Columbia City, below with his children Zach and Claire, has announced his candidacy for the Whitley County Consolidated Schools' board of trustees.
Article provided
A 14-year resident of Whitley County, Eric Horvath has announced his intent to seek a term on the Whitley County Consolidated Schools' board of trustees. Horvath is seeking the Columbia City District seat.
"I have really enjoyed my volunteered service over the years with the Boy Scouts of America here in Whitley County and look forward to contributing even more to this community when elected to school board," Horvath stated. "I am very excited to serve on the school board; serve the people of Whitley County and contribute to the growth of the Students in this great school system and community when elected."
Horvath and his wife, Tonya, have three children. Their oldest graduated last spring, one is a sophomore and their youngest child is a second grader at Mary Raber Elementary School.
"I would really appreciate your vote for me on November 2," Horvath concluded.
Article provided
A 14-year resident of Whitley County, Eric Horvath has announced his intent to seek a term on the Whitley County Consolidated Schools' board of trustees. Horvath is seeking the Columbia City District seat.
"I have really enjoyed my volunteered service over the years with the Boy Scouts of America here in Whitley County and look forward to contributing even more to this community when elected to school board," Horvath stated. "I am very excited to serve on the school board; serve the people of Whitley County and contribute to the growth of the Students in this great school system and community when elected."
Horvath and his wife, Tonya, have three children. Their oldest graduated last spring, one is a sophomore and their youngest child is a second grader at Mary Raber Elementary School.
"I would really appreciate your vote for me on November 2," Horvath concluded.
October 24, 2010
Pat Loe elected AARP president, club honored for 30 years of service in Whitley County
Article provided
Whitley County Chapter AARP met October 5 at The Woodlands Senior Center in Columbia City, selecting the organization's leadership to carry them into 2011.
New officers for 2011 included president Pat Loe, vice president Phyllis Shaffer, secretary Virginia Wright and treasurer Jeanette Zumbrun.
President Pat Loe presided over the meeting. She led the members in the pledge to the flag and gave a prayer. Wilma Bender's husband is a patient at Miller's Merry Manor. Sympathy was also extended to Barb Hawn for the recent loss of her husband, David.
There was no health report..
Judith Hicks' advice on legislation was to encourage everyone to get out and vote on November 2.
Marie Hockemeyer presented the "Five things you need to know on Election Day.” Her suggestions included: plan ahead, bring a photo ID, vote early, pay attention to signs at the polls and know the laws.
Next month, the AARP will meet on November 2 with a musical program presented by Alicia Evans, leader of the River City Chorus.
The December 7 meeting will be a catered luncheon held at noon at The Woodlands Senior Center. To make a reservation, contact Jeanette Zumbrun at 244-3435.
The guests for October included Curt Sylvester, member of the State AARP executive council, and Clyde Hall, Indiana's state AARP president. The two surprised the membership by presenting a 30-year plaque to the Chapter for their service to Whitley County.
Following the awards presentation, Clyde Hall spoke about the history of AARP. In 1948, Percy Andreas, a retired school teacher, started AARP. By 1958, AARP offered insurance to their members. Gradually AARP began to offer such services as health care, Social Security, assistance with national disasters, driver's training credit on car insurance and tax and other aid to senior citizens.
Whitley County Chapter AARP met October 5 at The Woodlands Senior Center in Columbia City, selecting the organization's leadership to carry them into 2011.
New officers for 2011 included president Pat Loe, vice president Phyllis Shaffer, secretary Virginia Wright and treasurer Jeanette Zumbrun.
President Pat Loe presided over the meeting. She led the members in the pledge to the flag and gave a prayer. Wilma Bender's husband is a patient at Miller's Merry Manor. Sympathy was also extended to Barb Hawn for the recent loss of her husband, David.
There was no health report..
Judith Hicks' advice on legislation was to encourage everyone to get out and vote on November 2.
Marie Hockemeyer presented the "Five things you need to know on Election Day.” Her suggestions included: plan ahead, bring a photo ID, vote early, pay attention to signs at the polls and know the laws.
Next month, the AARP will meet on November 2 with a musical program presented by Alicia Evans, leader of the River City Chorus.
The December 7 meeting will be a catered luncheon held at noon at The Woodlands Senior Center. To make a reservation, contact Jeanette Zumbrun at 244-3435.
The guests for October included Curt Sylvester, member of the State AARP executive council, and Clyde Hall, Indiana's state AARP president. The two surprised the membership by presenting a 30-year plaque to the Chapter for their service to Whitley County.
Following the awards presentation, Clyde Hall spoke about the history of AARP. In 1948, Percy Andreas, a retired school teacher, started AARP. By 1958, AARP offered insurance to their members. Gradually AARP began to offer such services as health care, Social Security, assistance with national disasters, driver's training credit on car insurance and tax and other aid to senior citizens.
Chamber celebrates opening of Pink, a new boutique in Columbia City
(Talk of the Town photo by Michelle Culbertson)
Recently, Chamber president Sara Lochner-Goff cut the ribbon to celebrate the grand opening and welcomed one of its newest members, Pink by Adela Katera. Pink is located on Spartan Drive in Columbia City, next to East of Chicago. Pink offers women’s clothing sizes 0-22, purses, jewelry and specialty gifts at an affordable price.
Attending the ribbon cutting event included Chamber board member and Ambassador Jennifer Zartman Romano of Talk of the Town; board member and Ambassador Randy Holler of Crossroads Bank; Ambassador Kristi Maloney of Sycamore Village; Adela Martinez Byers, co-owner of Pink; Chamber president Sara Lochner-Goff; Gloria Martinez, mother of Adela Martinez Byers and grandmother of Adela Katera Rowland; Renee Pepple, manager of Pink; Chamber member Tina Houser of LT Foundations Real Estate; Chamber member Kelley Sheiss of Leadership Whitley County; Ambassador Cari Wells of 1st Source Bank; Ambassador Lee Aumsbaugh of Aumsbaugh Flooring. Not present for the photo was Adela Katera Rowland, co-owner of Pink.
IPEP recognizes 'Busco's safety record
(Talk of the Town photo provided by BuscoVoice.com) Mark Coonrod, an agent with Star Insurance Agency, presented the Town of Churubusco and its employees with the Indiana Public Employees’ Plan (IPEP) Safety Award at its regular council meeting tonight. The award is presented to municipalities who show gains in increased workplace safely and a reduction in medical claims. Coonrod presented the award to two town supervisors, Jeremy Hart and Bob Hyatt, while members of the council looked on.
Article provided
The excellent worker safety record complied by the Town of Churubusco employees has earned for this government entity the Indiana Public Employers’ Plan safety award for calendar year 2009.
The award not only rewards the prevention of accidents among employees, but also emphasizes the cost savings to governmental agencies by keeping workers on the job.
The Town of Churubusco is one of 505 governmental entities throughout the state of Indiana whose employees are covered by Indiana Public Employers’ Plan, Inc. (IPEP). This is the only self-funded workers compensation risk-sharing group in the state.
When governmental official’s couple safety programs with cost control and claims management efforts, they recognize the many advantages of participating in an alternative insurance plan.
The award was presented to the Town of Churubusco and its employees at the October 20 council meeting by Mark Coonrod, a representative of Star Insurance.
October 23, 2010
Beautiful sky over Whitley County
(Talk of the Town photo by Alysia Mossburg Pfeiffer)
Tri Lakes resident Alysia Mossburg Pfeiffer captured a beautiful sunset over Tri Lakes last week, above. We might not see such pretty sunsets for a few days as some much-needed rain is expected to move into the area. Considering the no burning ban in order by the Whitley County Commissioners and with the endorsement of Whitley County's volunteer firefighters, the rain would be appreciated.
Homemade or heirloom? Display your favorite quilt to the Homemakers' show
Article provided
The annual Holiday Bazaar and Quilt Show, sponsored by the Whitley County Extension Homemakers, will be on Friday and Saturday, November 5 and 6, at the 4-H Center in Columbia City.
The show hours are Friday, November 5, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m,. and Saturday November 6, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
All area quilters are encouraged to bring their quilts or quilted items for display. No pre-registration is required.
There is a $2 fee for each item entered. Quilts may be brought to the 4-H Center beginning on Wednesday, November 3, from 6 to 7 p.m., and again on Thursday, November 4 from 7 to 10 a.m.
All entries need to be picked up between 2 and 2:30 p.m. Saturday, November 6.
To make reservations for a booth for the bazaar or if you have a question about the quilt show, you may call 244-7615 or 625-3313.
Kiwanis to meet Wednesday
The Whitley County Kiwanis Club will host their next meeting on Wednesday, October 27, at noon at Parkview Whitley Hospital. The meeting will be held in the conference room.
This month's featured speaker is Sara Lochner-Goff, new president of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce.
Other topics of discussion will include donations to the Christmas Family project, an Easter Extravaganza, satellite status, ideas for 2011 and an upcoming Governor's visit.
Anyone interested in membership in the Whitley County Kiwanis Club is invited to attend.
This month's featured speaker is Sara Lochner-Goff, new president of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce.
Other topics of discussion will include donations to the Christmas Family project, an Easter Extravaganza, satellite status, ideas for 2011 and an upcoming Governor's visit.
Anyone interested in membership in the Whitley County Kiwanis Club is invited to attend.
Columbia City topples DeKalb
October 22, 2010
Bechtold says he's eager to serve on Whitley County Consolidated Schools' board
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Columbia City resident Chris Bechtold has announced his plans to seek a seat on the Whitley County Consolidated Schools' board of trustees. 
Article provided
Chris Bechtold, Columbia City resident, has announced his candidacy for the Whitley County Consolidated Schools' board of trustees. He would represent the Columbia City District.
Bechtold and his wife, Melanie, have two children who both attend Mary Raber Elementary School
Bechtold said he is very excited to have the opportunity to serve the people of the WCCS district if elected to the board.
“As a lifelong resident of Whitley County, I’d be proud to serve the people who I’ve grown up with and have influenced me in so many positive ways," said Bechtold.
"I’m asking for your vote for WCCS School Board on November 2,” he added.
Article provided
Chris Bechtold, Columbia City resident, has announced his candidacy for the Whitley County Consolidated Schools' board of trustees. He would represent the Columbia City District.
Bechtold and his wife, Melanie, have two children who both attend Mary Raber Elementary School
Bechtold said he is very excited to have the opportunity to serve the people of the WCCS district if elected to the board.
“As a lifelong resident of Whitley County, I’d be proud to serve the people who I’ve grown up with and have influenced me in so many positive ways," said Bechtold.
"I’m asking for your vote for WCCS School Board on November 2,” he added.
Electric rates are expected to increase 30% in South Whitley
From the Tribune-News
The South Whitley Town Council hosted a full house during the October 12 meeting.
Local business owners and residents attended to hear what Kevin Neal from Duke Energy and Jesse Nelson from Umbaugh and Associates had to say about rising electric rates.
Neal stated that South Whitley has signed a 10-year contract with Duke Energy for power supply to the town’s electric utility. Wholesale price increases of 40 to 45 percent come along with the new contract. Neal defended the price saying that there has not been any increase since 2006.
“Duke has invested in pollution control equipment and is building a new power plant. The (price) increase is due to these,” Neal said. He added that Duke can pass these ‘recoverable’ costs on to consumers.
Nelson said that his calculations determined an increase of 30 percent to a residential customer using 500 kilowatt hours of power. Neal said that he had compared the average kilowatt hour price for a South Whitley resident with that a Duke residential customer and found that South Whitley has the lower rate.
Local businessman Tony Starkey questioned the council about the new contract. Specifically, he wanted to know if the council had sought competitive quotes before signing the new Duke contract. Councilwoman Tonya Warner answered that they signed with Duke because the town has never had a problem with them.
A representative from Whitley Manufacturing commented that the 30 percent increase is a large number, especially coming when the economy is down.
Utility Manager Dennis Eberhart asked Nelson to compare South Whitley’s new industrial rates with other area rates so that business owners can know the situation they are in.
Council president Joan Eberhart said that she had requested rates from Columbia City in hopes of comparing them with South Whitley’s and that she received a 15 page fax that she was unable to decipher.
Starkey also asked whether the council had considered selling the electric utility. In that case, the town would be out of the electrical business and residents would pay for power directly to a supplier like the REMC or NIPSCO.
“We know we have to do something about our electric utility,” Warner said. “We are losing a lineman. We are weighing our options. It (the problem) isn’t going away and we know that.”
David Harvey and Nathan Anderson from Fleis and Vandenbrink reported that Phase I of the storm water/sewer project is almost complete. Phase I improved the town's storm water collection system. Phase II will address issues at the waste water treatment plant and some sanitary sewer lines. Harvey raised a new concern about bank stabilization at the treatment plant and said that the town may have to acquire some additional property. He noted that a meeting is scheduled with Region IIIA on October 27 and that he will be looking into possible grant funding. Another possibility is to see if the Indiana DNR has any funds available for slop stabilization at the plant.
The situation at the Green Parrot remains unchanged, according to owner Randy Striggle.
"Still waiting on the contract from my attorney," Striggle said. "As soon as we get it, Adam Flores will sign it and we can proceed from there."
Flores will be the new owner of the bar. Striggle said that Flores is aware that of the ordered repairs and the November deadline. Building Inspector Craig Wagner added that he has not seen any increase in the buildings tilt.
Clerk-Treasurer Mitch Winger noted that the State Board of Accounts audit is complete.
Police Chief Dave Wilkinson said that the library has requested a street closing for a fun carnival on October 23. It was agreed that Front Street will be closed from 5 to 7 p.m. for the annual event.
The South Whitley Town Council hosted a full house during the October 12 meeting.
Local business owners and residents attended to hear what Kevin Neal from Duke Energy and Jesse Nelson from Umbaugh and Associates had to say about rising electric rates.
Neal stated that South Whitley has signed a 10-year contract with Duke Energy for power supply to the town’s electric utility. Wholesale price increases of 40 to 45 percent come along with the new contract. Neal defended the price saying that there has not been any increase since 2006.
“Duke has invested in pollution control equipment and is building a new power plant. The (price) increase is due to these,” Neal said. He added that Duke can pass these ‘recoverable’ costs on to consumers.
Nelson said that his calculations determined an increase of 30 percent to a residential customer using 500 kilowatt hours of power. Neal said that he had compared the average kilowatt hour price for a South Whitley resident with that a Duke residential customer and found that South Whitley has the lower rate.
Local businessman Tony Starkey questioned the council about the new contract. Specifically, he wanted to know if the council had sought competitive quotes before signing the new Duke contract. Councilwoman Tonya Warner answered that they signed with Duke because the town has never had a problem with them.
A representative from Whitley Manufacturing commented that the 30 percent increase is a large number, especially coming when the economy is down.
Utility Manager Dennis Eberhart asked Nelson to compare South Whitley’s new industrial rates with other area rates so that business owners can know the situation they are in.
Council president Joan Eberhart said that she had requested rates from Columbia City in hopes of comparing them with South Whitley’s and that she received a 15 page fax that she was unable to decipher.
Starkey also asked whether the council had considered selling the electric utility. In that case, the town would be out of the electrical business and residents would pay for power directly to a supplier like the REMC or NIPSCO.
“We know we have to do something about our electric utility,” Warner said. “We are losing a lineman. We are weighing our options. It (the problem) isn’t going away and we know that.”
David Harvey and Nathan Anderson from Fleis and Vandenbrink reported that Phase I of the storm water/sewer project is almost complete. Phase I improved the town's storm water collection system. Phase II will address issues at the waste water treatment plant and some sanitary sewer lines. Harvey raised a new concern about bank stabilization at the treatment plant and said that the town may have to acquire some additional property. He noted that a meeting is scheduled with Region IIIA on October 27 and that he will be looking into possible grant funding. Another possibility is to see if the Indiana DNR has any funds available for slop stabilization at the plant.
The situation at the Green Parrot remains unchanged, according to owner Randy Striggle.
"Still waiting on the contract from my attorney," Striggle said. "As soon as we get it, Adam Flores will sign it and we can proceed from there."
Flores will be the new owner of the bar. Striggle said that Flores is aware that of the ordered repairs and the November deadline. Building Inspector Craig Wagner added that he has not seen any increase in the buildings tilt.
Clerk-Treasurer Mitch Winger noted that the State Board of Accounts audit is complete.
Police Chief Dave Wilkinson said that the library has requested a street closing for a fun carnival on October 23. It was agreed that Front Street will be closed from 5 to 7 p.m. for the annual event.
Whitley County Historical Museum now featuring Native American history exhibit
The Whitley County Historical Museum is displaying a Native American history exhibit in celebration of American Indian Heritage Month.
The display will be open through the end of November.
Museum hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Admission is free.
The Whitley County Historical Museum is located at 108 West Jefferson Street in Columbia City.
For more details, contact the Whitley County Historical Museum at 244-6372.
The display will be open through the end of November.
Museum hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Admission is free.
The Whitley County Historical Museum is located at 108 West Jefferson Street in Columbia City.
For more details, contact the Whitley County Historical Museum at 244-6372.
Due to limited quantities, Coats for Kids program ends Saturday afternoon
From reports
The annual Coats for Kids giveaway will continue tomorrow, Saturday, October 23, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Coats are limited ,so they will be given away on a first come, first serve basis.
The event is sponsored by DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home and coordinated by the Whitley County Salvation Army.
The annual Coats for Kids giveaway will continue tomorrow, Saturday, October 23, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Coats are limited ,so they will be given away on a first come, first serve basis.
The event is sponsored by DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home and coordinated by the Whitley County Salvation Army.
Coats for Kids campaign in desperate need of donated children's coats
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The annual Coats for Kids giveaway, sponsored by DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home and managed by the Whitley County Salvation Army, begins today -- but those close to the project are concerned there won't be enough coats to keep little ones warm this year.
"The coats just arrived for the "Coats for Kids" give-a-way for this afternoon and tomorrow," said Pat Mossburg of the Salvation Army. "We only have a small amount of coats to help Whitley County kids."
Mossburg is hoping to inspire local families to look through their closets and donate some coats that no longer fit so that children in need will have a warm coat to wear this winter.
"Please look through your closets or if you know a business that might donate some, it would be deeply appriciated," added Mossburg. "I believe we have about a quarter or less coats than last year."
Each year, the staff at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home pay for the cleaning and preparation of coats for the project.
If you have coats to donate, contact the Salvation Army at 248-1711.
The annual Coats for Kids giveaway, sponsored by DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home and managed by the Whitley County Salvation Army, begins today -- but those close to the project are concerned there won't be enough coats to keep little ones warm this year.
"The coats just arrived for the "Coats for Kids" give-a-way for this afternoon and tomorrow," said Pat Mossburg of the Salvation Army. "We only have a small amount of coats to help Whitley County kids."
Mossburg is hoping to inspire local families to look through their closets and donate some coats that no longer fit so that children in need will have a warm coat to wear this winter.
"Please look through your closets or if you know a business that might donate some, it would be deeply appriciated," added Mossburg. "I believe we have about a quarter or less coats than last year."
Each year, the staff at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home pay for the cleaning and preparation of coats for the project.
If you have coats to donate, contact the Salvation Army at 248-1711.
October 21, 2010
Issue of wind energy ordinance tabled so plan commission can consider perspectives, fact finding
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
On a windy day like today, it's no wonder the county is considering tapping into wind energy as a future crop for Whitley County.
Last night, more than 70 people stood in a crowded room as the Whitley County Plan Commission considered a proposal to provide parameters for future wind energy companies wanting to operate in Whitley County. Specifically, the plan commission is considering an ordinance that would allow a large wind farm to be created in the southwest corner of Whitley County.
According to Whitley County Commissioner Tom Rethlake, who attended the meeting, there were many in attendance -- with a variety of opinions on the matter.
"There were people that spoke for it, people that spoke against it," Rethlake said.
"It was just about approval of the ordinance, not approval of a business at this time," added Rethlake.
After hearing residents' points of view on the matter, the plan commission agreed to further consider the matter and voted to table the issue until their next meeting where they will discuss it further. Ultimately, the matter would end up in the hands of Whitley County Commissioners to consider.
Whitley County Plan Commission members include Bill Auer, Brandon Forrester, John Johnson, Kenneth Kerch, David Schilling, Mike Schrader, Kim Wheeler and Doug Wright.
According to Whitley County Economic Development Corporation president Alan Tio, even if the the zoning is changed and the company chooses to move forward with any plans to build a wind farm in Whitley County, it will be a lengthy process. Tio said they would need to determine if the level of wind energy that could be harnessed in Whitley County would be substantial enough to outweight the costs and time associated with building a wind farm here. The process would likely take 18 months or longer to complete.
To review the proposed ordinance, click here.
To learn more about a company interested in capturing wind energy in Whitley County, click here.
http://www.whitleygov.com/egov/apps/document/center.egov?path=doc&id=891&id2=682&linked=0
On a windy day like today, it's no wonder the county is considering tapping into wind energy as a future crop for Whitley County.
Last night, more than 70 people stood in a crowded room as the Whitley County Plan Commission considered a proposal to provide parameters for future wind energy companies wanting to operate in Whitley County. Specifically, the plan commission is considering an ordinance that would allow a large wind farm to be created in the southwest corner of Whitley County.
According to Whitley County Commissioner Tom Rethlake, who attended the meeting, there were many in attendance -- with a variety of opinions on the matter.
"There were people that spoke for it, people that spoke against it," Rethlake said.
"It was just about approval of the ordinance, not approval of a business at this time," added Rethlake.
After hearing residents' points of view on the matter, the plan commission agreed to further consider the matter and voted to table the issue until their next meeting where they will discuss it further. Ultimately, the matter would end up in the hands of Whitley County Commissioners to consider.
Whitley County Plan Commission members include Bill Auer, Brandon Forrester, John Johnson, Kenneth Kerch, David Schilling, Mike Schrader, Kim Wheeler and Doug Wright.
According to Whitley County Economic Development Corporation president Alan Tio, even if the the zoning is changed and the company chooses to move forward with any plans to build a wind farm in Whitley County, it will be a lengthy process. Tio said they would need to determine if the level of wind energy that could be harnessed in Whitley County would be substantial enough to outweight the costs and time associated with building a wind farm here. The process would likely take 18 months or longer to complete.
To review the proposed ordinance, click here.
To learn more about a company interested in capturing wind energy in Whitley County, click here.
http://www.whitleygov.com/egov/apps/document/center.egov?path=doc&id=891&id2=682&linked=0
Snapshots: 2010 Chamber Celebration
Chamber Ambassadors select Leadership Whitley County as 2010 Jewel of the Community
Kristy Maloney named 2010 Whitley County Chamber Ambassador of the Year
Whitley County's third largest employer, UnderSea Sensors Systems Inc. named 2010 Large Business of the Year
South Whitley's The Brownstone on State selected as Whitley County Chamber's 2010 Small Business of the Year
Jacie Worrick, June Keiser honored with Whitley County Chamber of Commerce Chairman's Award
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, from left, Jacie Worrick, Mike Defreeuw and June Keiser following the presentation of the annual Whitley County Chamber of Commerce's Chairmans Award presentation. Below, hugs and cheers for two local business women who've done so much for Whitley County.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Whitley County Chamber of Commerce board chairman Mike Defreeuw put a fine point on the breadth of contributions made by two local business owners during the presentation of his Chairman's Award last night at the Chamber Celebration, a first annual event of the new organization, held at South Whitley's The Brownstone on State. 
Defreeuw was given the task of selecting a business leader who had gone far in improving the local business community -- a task that was immediately daunting because two people came quickly to mind.
"When I was told about this, I knew immediately who I wanted to recognize," Defreeuw told Chamber members at the celebration. "But I did have to alter the award just a little because this year I am not selecting an individual – I am selecting a couple. When you hear who I selected, I know you will agree that there is no way I could possibly pick one without the other."
He chose June Keiser and Jacie Worrick, co-owners of J&J Insurance Solutions in Columbia City.
"Throughout the 24 years that I have been involved in this chamber, I would say that very few people been more involved, or given more time, or given more money - not only to the chamber and it’s committees…but to almost any special event that’s held in the community or to any non-profit that is in need," Defreeuw said of Keiser and Worrick.
"I would dare to say that there is no one in this room who somehow, at some point, has not been touched by this generous couple," he said. "I just can not imagine how many hours and how many dollars have been so generously donated to make sure events happen, or to make sure organizations could achieve their goals. And they do it all without wanting thanks or praise."
Defreeuw said he was in awe of the humble way in which the two have given back to their community, sharing something one of them once said to him, "This community has been very good to us. We just want to give back as a way to say thank you. We need to do this.”
"I know our Chamber of Commerce would not be what it is today without them," he continued. "I know this community would not be the same without them."
Worrick and Keiser both had tears in their eyes as they accepted the award, having heard the glowing words of appreciation in a room filled with friends.
Indeed, how could you think of one without the other when measuring their spirit of support and giving in Whitley County?
Reimers will make history as the first woman to serve on Whitley County Council
(Talk of the Town photo by Samantha Reimers) Paula Reimers, below, will be the first woman to serve on Whitley County Council in the county's 172 year history.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
When Paula Reimers walks through the doors of the Whitley County Government Center building and takes a seat at the red oak, half circle desk reserved for the Whitley County Council in November -- she'll be making history. 
Reimers will be the first woman to serve on the Whitley County Council in the county's 172 year history.
"I am ecstatic and amazed," Reimers said of the milestone. "The first meeting next month will be the first time a woman has had the privilege to work for the County as a Council woman!"
Reimers is no stranger to the inner workings of the county. For eight years, she served as county coordinator -- a vocal presence in council meetings reporting on the daily operations of the county governmental offices. Reimers resigned from the county coordinator position in September 2008 to pursue other opportunities that have given her greater insight into governmental issues through the state.
Her current role as a senior consultant for Waggoner, Irwin, Scheele & Associates, Inc. gives her unique perspective not only on what is happening within county government offices statewide. Reimers provides consultation to county government offices around the state pertaining to human resource issues and activities.
Reimers is also a managing partner and consulting for Simple Solutions LLC, an office organization and consultation company specializing in county government.
"I work with county councils all over the state in an advisory capacity," Reimers said. "I watch them make decisions that impact the entire county. I feel as though I am in an excellent position to improve Whitley County by serving on the county council."
Reimers is eager to bring the community closer to their government by ensuring that people are aware of what decisions are being made and what is happening that may affect them.
"I feel it is important to be more transparent with the public," Reimers said.
In addition, she feels compelled to make sure Whitley County is fiscally responsible.
"I also have learned of several cost saving ideas that should be researched by our county," she said. "I am an out-of-the-box type of thinker and, will work with the existing councilmen and commissioners to study ideas I have that could reduce cost and at the same time improve services that we provide."
Looking ahead, Reimers said she knows it will not be easy.
"The budget will continue to be a challenge as well as maintaining the level of services that Whitley County has become accustomed to," she said. "It is important for our councilman to continue to follow Indiana Code and keep the county general funds allocated as required."
And that's not all.
"In addition to budget restraints and reduced income, council should keep a watch on personnel and the management of salary and benefits," said Reimers. "It is crucial that Whitley County retain the employees that the taxpayers have invested in without over or under compensating. It is often the personnel within our county departments that keep the services and cost down by diligently analyzing every purchase, expense, contract and service."
Reimers attended Indiana-Purdue University at Fort Wayne.
20-year residents of Whitley County, Reimers and her husband currently live at Tri Lakes. The couple has two children -- 18-year-old Samantha and 11-year-old Cohen.
In addition to her interest in county government, Reimers has served the community in a variety of other ways. She is a member of the Community Corrections Advisory Board, a member Drug Free Indiana, a past member of the Chamber of Commerce's finance committee, a volunteer for Surburban Bethlehem Lutheran
Church and School, a member of the Parkview Hospital Healthy Families and Substance Abuse committees, a Society of Human Resource Management member, a past board member and treasurer for Somebody Cares in addition to several other volunteer roles.
Reimers will officially take over her new duties on November 2 when current county councilman Jim Banks is formally elected District 17 State Senator.
October 20, 2010
Reimers wins Whitley County Council seat following GOP caucus tonight
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) County GOP chairman Jim Banks explains the caucus rules to the 34 precinct committee members present. Behind him, the ten caucus candidates await their opportunity to speak. From left behind Banks, is precinct committee member David Lefever, caucus official Barb Overdeer and candidates Max Zimmerman, Dick Kyler, Doug Schrader, Jim Macino, Cheryl McDevitt, Paula Reimers, Doug Eber, Scott Darley, Steve Smith and Matt Boyd.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
After multiple rounds of voting, the final decision was down to just two candidates vying for a caucus seat on the Whitley County Council.
In the end, the 34 precinct committee members were tied between Paula Reimers and Matt Boyd.
The crowded room was buzzing with each voting cycle. One tie. Two ties. After a third go-round, Reimbers gained a majority of the caucus votes and was declared the winner.
Per caucus rules, the county GOP chairman, Jim Banks, could have chosen a winner to break the first tie, but two weeks ago stated publicly that he had no intention of doing so. He said he would allow the precinct committee members to make the final determination -- no matter how long it took.
"The process was difficult," Reimers said this evening just as the reality of the evening's win was settling in.
"Every candidate gave excellent speeches and worked to be there," she said.
Candidates were initially presented by a friend or family member who gave a two minute speech. Candidates then had three minutes to speak about their platform. With 10 candidates, this process took awhile!
"We went several rounds losing a candidate or two each time. After we tied twice chairman (Jim) Banks asked the precinct representatives what they would recommend," Reimers said. "Walt Crowder recommended that we each be given an opportunity to speak for two minutes and answer questions."
When they voted again, Reimers was the winner.
"I feel incredibly honored to get a chance to work with the County Council and Whitley County constituents as the first Council woman!! I look forward to working hard and making a real difference in our County... and I mean that."
"I love Whitley County and have a very high regard for the responsibility that comes with the position. I have watched elected officials for a very long time and feel that I have hopefully picked up the best of each of them."
We will have additional information about Reimers and the caucus tomorrow morning right here on Talk of the Town.
Northeast OB/GYN opens Whitley County office, Dr. Randall Carpenter joins group
(Talk of the Town photo provided) 
Parkview Specialty Physicians obstetrician and gynecologist Randall Carpenter, MD, at right, has joined the regional Northeast OB/GYN's new Whitley group with a new office in Whitley County.
Dr. Carpenter’s association with Northeast OB/GYN – Whitley, allows him to bring the region’s most comprehensive women’s health services to Whitley County, supported by a team of leading physicians and specialists with expertise in modern gynecological surgeries and technologies.
Dr. Carpenter also has moved to a more spacious office area that includes additional exam rooms and a physician is now available five days a week.
Dr. Carpenter’s office is located in the Lehmberg Building, 333 North Oak Street, Suite F, Columbia City. To schedule an appointment, call 248-9090.
Both Parkview Specialty Physicians and Northeast OB/Gyn are members of Parkview Physicians’ Group.
Parkview Specialty Physicians obstetrician and gynecologist Randall Carpenter, MD, at right, has joined the regional Northeast OB/GYN's new Whitley group with a new office in Whitley County.
Dr. Carpenter’s association with Northeast OB/GYN – Whitley, allows him to bring the region’s most comprehensive women’s health services to Whitley County, supported by a team of leading physicians and specialists with expertise in modern gynecological surgeries and technologies.
Dr. Carpenter also has moved to a more spacious office area that includes additional exam rooms and a physician is now available five days a week.
Dr. Carpenter’s office is located in the Lehmberg Building, 333 North Oak Street, Suite F, Columbia City. To schedule an appointment, call 248-9090.
Both Parkview Specialty Physicians and Northeast OB/Gyn are members of Parkview Physicians’ Group.
Whitley County Business & Networking members enjoying new bi-weekly program format
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
On October 8, local business owners and business representatives met for the bi-weekly Whitley County Business & Networking meeting at the Brew Ha in Columbia City. This meeting was the first to feature a new format -- informal networking, brief introductions and announcements followed by a program. Whitley County Business & Networking has been meeting since February with more than 175 members.
Friday's featured presenter was Parkview Whitley Hospital COO Scott Gabriel, shown above third from left. Gabriel introduced himself, gave a little information about his background in health care and provided attendees with an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the new Parkview Whitley Hospital, the campus and the new medical building being constructed there.
Whitley County Business & Networking meets every other Friday at 8:30 a.m. The next meeting is scheduled for October 22 at the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce office, 201 North Line Street in Columbia City. New Whitley County Chamber president Sara Lochner-Goff will speak about the chamber's direction and interest in helping to promote the local business community. Due to limited seating for this event, please RSVP to jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com
IPFW, IU Alumni hosting economic forecast luncheon on November 10 in Fort Wayne
Article provided
For the fourth year, the IPFW Alumni Association and the Northeast Indiana Chapter of the IU Alumni Association are partnering to host the Economic Outlook Luncheon on Wednesday, November 10, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Walb Union Ballroom on the IPFW campus in Fort Wayne.
A panel of experts from IU's Kelley School of Business and local expert John Stafford will provide their projections for the economy in the weeks, month and year ahead. The panel will offer national, state, and local economic forecasts for 2011.
The cost to attend is $30 per person or $275 for a table of ten and will include lunch.
For reservations, contact Eric Steenman, Vice President of the Northeast Indiana Chapter of the IU Alumni Association, at (260) 490-1374, ext. 2864, or eric.steenman@lakecitybank.com
Columbia City's Hannah Schaefer to perform in Wabash County production at Honeywell Center
(Talk of the Town photo provided)
Hannah Schaefer, at right, the daughter of Mark and Mary Ann Schaefer and a freshman at Columbia City High School, has joined the Wabash Area Community Theater as part of the ensemble and dance cast of Rodgers and Hammerstein's "Cinderella."
The show opens this weekend at the Honeywell Center in Wabash.
Schaefer enjoys theater and performance and has been involved in middle school and high school show choir as well as local productions of "The Music Man," "Yes Virginia There Is A Santa Claus," several theater performances at Indian Springs Middle School and is involved with the Rising Stars program at The Wagon Wheel in Warsaw.
Show times are Friday and Saturday, October 22 and 23 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, October 24 at 2 p.m.
For ticket information, contact the Honeywell Center at (260) 563-1102 or visit the website at www.honeywellcenter.org
Hannah Schaefer, at right, the daughter of Mark and Mary Ann Schaefer and a freshman at Columbia City High School, has joined the Wabash Area Community Theater as part of the ensemble and dance cast of Rodgers and Hammerstein's "Cinderella."
The show opens this weekend at the Honeywell Center in Wabash.
Schaefer enjoys theater and performance and has been involved in middle school and high school show choir as well as local productions of "The Music Man," "Yes Virginia There Is A Santa Claus," several theater performances at Indian Springs Middle School and is involved with the Rising Stars program at The Wagon Wheel in Warsaw.
Show times are Friday and Saturday, October 22 and 23 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, October 24 at 2 p.m.
For ticket information, contact the Honeywell Center at (260) 563-1102 or visit the website at www.honeywellcenter.org
EDC director says Whitley County's economic development efforts will benefit from new region GIS system
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
On Tuesday, the Northeast Indiana Fund (NIF) awarded grants to groups working to build capacity for economic development in the ten-county region.
A non-profit wing of the Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership (NEIRP), the NIF awards matching grant dollars to local economic development organizations to assist in projects that will help to make the region better able to compete for business investment and quality jobs. The Northeast Indiana region includes Adams, Allen, DeKalb, Huntington , LaGrange, Noble, Steuben, Wabash , Wells and Whitley counties.
While the grant funding wasn't specifically earmarked for the Whitley County Economic Development Corporation on Tuesday, a portion of the funding will find its way toward helping Whitley County's economic development initiatives, said Whitley County EDC president Alan Tio. Specifically, a grant was awarded to the Northeast Indiana Economic Development District to fund a regional geographic information system website. Similar to the GIS which already exists for Whitley County, showing aerial mapping of the local landscape, the regional GIS would not end at the county line like it does currently -- but would link in the GIS images for all counties in the region. The website will provide regional illustration of zoning, land use, development sites and corridors, trails, and projects that are competing for federal funding assistance.
"The regional GIS proposal will be helpful to understand how our efforts in community and economic development align within the region," said Tio.
Other grants awarded Tuesday will specifically impact Wells County and Noble County.
Wells County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development received a grant to enhance their website for potential site selectors and future business prospects, as well as companies and the general public. The goal of the site is to provide public access to information on issues affecting Wells County.
Noble County Economic Development Corporation also received funds for a similar website development project. That community was also awarded a matching dollars grant to develop a county-wide vision that aligns with Thrive Noble County and the goals and strategies of Vision 2020.
Whitley County ECC has received grants from the NIF in the past.
"The NIF has previously approved two grants to the Whitley County EDC to support our small business and entrepreneurship initiatives," Tio added.
To view the Whitley County GIS system, similar to what will be created on a regional level utilizing the grant from the Northeast Indiana Fund, click here.
October 19, 2010
City replacing lighting fixtures with 20-year, environmentally friendly bulbs
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, Columbia City Electric Department employee Stan Schmitt installs a new induction lamp to convert one of the city's light posts into a new, environmentally friendly lighting fixture this afternoon. Below, Electrical Department supervisor Larry Whetstone removes an induction lamp from its box and prepares it for installation this afternoon along Oak Street just south of Parkview Whitley Hospital. 705 bulbs will be replaced around Columbia City between now and the end of the year in this grant-funded project.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano 
Columbia City Electric Department supervisor Larry Whetstone has a big job ahead of him.
Between now and December 31, Whetstone and his crew will be busy converting all of the city's lighting fixtures with new, more efficient, environmentally friendly bulbs and encasements. In all, 705 light fixtures will be replaced, including the lighting atop the tall poles around the city and the iconic bulbs on the green streetlights in the downtown area. Whetstone is quick to point out that the bulbs will be replaced, but the lighting poles will all stay the same.
Looking similar to the old fixtures, the new versions employ a different technology. The new bulbs will be good for 20 years, Whetstone said.
Obviously, these will be an improvement over the old high pressure sodium bulbs used before with an undeterminable life span. Those, Whetstone said, were an improvement over the previous incandescent bulbs the city used years ago.
The bulb replacement project has been made possible by grant funding.
Better Than Grandma's Bakery, Dipsticks Pretzels will be featured at Food & Wine Spectacular
(Talk of the Town photo provided)
Two local small businesses will enjoy sweet roles in the upcoming Food & Wine Spectacular, an event benefiting Leadership Whitley County.
Better Than Grandma's Bakery will be preparing mini cheesecakes and Christy Smith of Dipsticks Pretzels will make create hand-dipped chocolate marshmallows, as shown at right -- all for guests to sample and savor at the event on November 4 from 7-9 p.m. at the Eagles Nest Event Center in Columbia City. In addition to the desserts, there will be hors d' oeuvres and more than 100 wines to try. Limited numbers of the $25 general admission tickets remain. For more information, call Kelley Sheiss at 799-4045.
Two local small businesses will enjoy sweet roles in the upcoming Food & Wine Spectacular, an event benefiting Leadership Whitley County.
Better Than Grandma's Bakery will be preparing mini cheesecakes and Christy Smith of Dipsticks Pretzels will make create hand-dipped chocolate marshmallows, as shown at right -- all for guests to sample and savor at the event on November 4 from 7-9 p.m. at the Eagles Nest Event Center in Columbia City. In addition to the desserts, there will be hors d' oeuvres and more than 100 wines to try. Limited numbers of the $25 general admission tickets remain. For more information, call Kelley Sheiss at 799-4045.
CC Parks' JFL season draws to a close
(Talk of the Town photo copyright Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, participants on the Fort Wayne Dental Group sponsored JFL team are focused and engaged during a recent practice. The teams completed their season over the weekend and parents are urged to ensure all equipment is returned to the parks department this week if possible.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The thrill of Saturday morning games and the pain of late afternoon practices are over for another season of the Columbia City Parks Department's Junior Football League.
Parents of children who participated in the Columbia City Parks Department's JFL program will want to be sure all football equipment is returned before November or face a $125 fine.
According to Melinda Wheeler, program coordinator for the parks department, equipment that wasn't dropped off last evening can still be brought to the park Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
For more information or to make arrangements to drop off equipment, call 248-5180.
Whitley County Council approves trim $7.9 million county budget for 2011
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, from left, Auditor Linda Gerig, Whitley County Council president Kim Wheeler, councilman John Barrett and councilman Jim Bayman discuss the impact of the newly finalized 2011 budget.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Five of seven members of the Whitley County Council met this morning and unanimously approved the county's $7.9 million 2011 budget.
"There wasn't a whole lot to adjust this year," said council president Kim Wheeler. Wheeler said that last year, county department heads spent considerable time shaping their budgets to be conservative and within their means, making this year's process much easier.
"Last year, the department head spent a lot of time adjusting and it benefited us all this year," added councilman Jim Banks.
"They really bit the bullet on a lot of things," said councilman Tom Western. "You have to give a lot of credit to those department heads for living within their budgets. It really took a lot of headaches off us."
The $7.9 million budget approved this morning is actually $1.3 million less than last year and featured an additional $300,000+ cuts added just prior to this morning's council meeting.
When asked if the budget reductions made over the past two years have been noticeable in terms of reduction in services or quality, Wheeler said the county has been fortunate and the cuts have not been negative.
"We just handle more," said Auditor Linda Gerig. Geric implied that county offices are working smarter now to best utilize their funding in a way that gets the jobs done effectively and without added expense.
Councilmen present for the meeting included Kim Wheeler, John Barrett, Jim Bayman, Tom Western and Jim Banks. Those not present were Glen Larue and Bill Overdeer.
Work continues at site of county's new Rail Connect Business Park
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Whitley County Council recently approved the creation of a countywide Economic Revitalization Area, allowing one-step review and approval for property tax abatement requests from any applicant with the appropriate zoning who also meets the state statutory project eligibility requirements. The county's jurisdiction includes the Gateway Industrial Park, Park 30 Business Center and newly established Rail Connect Business Park. Above and at right, crews have been hard at work at the Rail Connect Business Park site of CR 500 East just south of US 30 in rural eastern Whitley County, just south of the former Essex facility, shifting ground and preparing the new Rail Connect Business Park. The site will be ideal for companies needing direct access to the adjacent railway, the proximity of which is shown above.
Snapshots: An evening of inspiration for Passages Inc.
October 18, 2010
Tenth candidate launches campaign for Whitley County Council caucus on Wednesday
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Ten appears to be the final number.
On Saturday, a tenth candidate entered the ring for the Whitley County Council caucus seat.
Douglas Eber of Thorncreek Township was the final candidate to enter the race, registering just before the 72 hour deadline.
According to Debbie Beers of the Whitley County Clerk's Office, potential candidates had 72 hours prior to the caucus to register with her office and with county Republican Party chairman Jim Banks. No additional candidates will be able to file at this point.
Whitley County's 34 Republican precinct committee members will determine a replacement for Jim Banks on the Whitley County Council to serve the remaining year on his term during a caucus this Wednesday, October 20 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at the Whitley County Government Center. Banks seat will become vacant when he's elected to be District 17 State Senator on election day. His race is uncontested.
The ten caucus candidates include Paula Reimers, Cheryl McDevitt, Jim Macino, Matt Boyd, Richard Kyler, Steve Smith, Max Zimmerman, Scott Darley, Douglas Schrader and Douglas Eber.
The ten candidates are now working to gain the support of precinct committee members in hopes of gaining their votes on Wednesday evening. The past few weeks have been busy for precinct committee members, receiving phone calls, mailings and personal visits from the candidates -- a situation likely to continue through Wednesday evening as the candidates work for the coveted majority of votes.
The community is invited to attend the caucus and observe the process.
Ten appears to be the final number.
On Saturday, a tenth candidate entered the ring for the Whitley County Council caucus seat.
Douglas Eber of Thorncreek Township was the final candidate to enter the race, registering just before the 72 hour deadline.
According to Debbie Beers of the Whitley County Clerk's Office, potential candidates had 72 hours prior to the caucus to register with her office and with county Republican Party chairman Jim Banks. No additional candidates will be able to file at this point.
Whitley County's 34 Republican precinct committee members will determine a replacement for Jim Banks on the Whitley County Council to serve the remaining year on his term during a caucus this Wednesday, October 20 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at the Whitley County Government Center. Banks seat will become vacant when he's elected to be District 17 State Senator on election day. His race is uncontested.
The ten caucus candidates include Paula Reimers, Cheryl McDevitt, Jim Macino, Matt Boyd, Richard Kyler, Steve Smith, Max Zimmerman, Scott Darley, Douglas Schrader and Douglas Eber.
The ten candidates are now working to gain the support of precinct committee members in hopes of gaining their votes on Wednesday evening. The past few weeks have been busy for precinct committee members, receiving phone calls, mailings and personal visits from the candidates -- a situation likely to continue through Wednesday evening as the candidates work for the coveted majority of votes.
The community is invited to attend the caucus and observe the process.
Whitley County Toys For Tots will begin taking assistance requests on November 4
By Roxy Hagans
The Salvation Army will begin taking applications for Toys For Tots of Whitley County assistance at Eagle Quest Church, 1120 North SR 109 in Columbia City on Tuesdays and Thursdays, beginning November 4 through November 23. This is the same location it was held last year.
The Salvation Army will be open Tuesday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
To register for Toys for Tots assistance, participants must bring a photo ID, proof of Whitley County residence and evidence of income.
For more information, contact Marsha at 327-3762 if you have any questions.
The Salvation Army will begin taking applications for Toys For Tots of Whitley County assistance at Eagle Quest Church, 1120 North SR 109 in Columbia City on Tuesdays and Thursdays, beginning November 4 through November 23. This is the same location it was held last year.
The Salvation Army will be open Tuesday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
To register for Toys for Tots assistance, participants must bring a photo ID, proof of Whitley County residence and evidence of income.
For more information, contact Marsha at 327-3762 if you have any questions.
Keep warm with a steaming bowl of soup at the CC Deli
Just as promised last week, Steve and Sharon Hostetler are launching a new item this week -- a new soup.
"This week, CC Deli is introducing Smokey Poblano & Cheese soup," Hostetler said. "This soup is simlar to the Wisconsin Cheese, but with a Southwestern taste."
The new soup will debut on Thursday.
For the next month, the Hostetlers will be launching a new soup or menu item each week.
What follows are this week's soups:
Monday: Potato Bacon and Tomato Bisque
Tuesday: French Onion and Tomato Tortellini
Wednesday: White Chili and Cheesy Potato
Thursday: Broccoli Cheese and Smokey Poblano & Cheese
Friday: Veggie Beef and Cheeseburger
"This week, CC Deli is introducing Smokey Poblano & Cheese soup," Hostetler said. "This soup is simlar to the Wisconsin Cheese, but with a Southwestern taste."
The new soup will debut on Thursday.
For the next month, the Hostetlers will be launching a new soup or menu item each week.
What follows are this week's soups:
Monday: Potato Bacon and Tomato Bisque
Tuesday: French Onion and Tomato Tortellini
Wednesday: White Chili and Cheesy Potato
Thursday: Broccoli Cheese and Smokey Poblano & Cheese
Friday: Veggie Beef and Cheeseburger
October 17, 2010
Old Settlers Day Association supports historical education for county's youths
(Talk of the Town photo provided)
The Old Settlers Day Association recently presented a grant for $1500 to the Whitley County Historical Society for the purpose of funding an annual children's history summer day camp. Held in annually in mid-June, the camp has been focused on the Civil War for the past two years, but may feature education about the Revolutionary War in 2011. The camps is designed for children ages 9 to 14 and is held at the Whitley County Historical Museum for three consecutive days.
Above, presenting the grant check, from left, is Jim Brock of the OSDA, museum assistant director Angela Maley and Jacie Worrick of the OSDA.
Whitley County Consolidated School board to meet Monday, many topics of discussion
From reports
Whitley County Consolidated Schools' board of trustees will meet Monday, October 18, at 7 p.m. at the Marshall Community Center, 107 North Walnut Street in Columbia City.
Mariah Schaefer, a fourth grade student at Northern Heights Elementary School, will present the Pledge of Allegiance. Schaefer will be introduced by school principal Robert Hoke.
Jan Boylen and Gregg Goewert will provide school improvement goals and plans for Indian Springs Middle School and Columbia City High School, respectively.
Mary Brashear, a custodian at Indian Springs Middle School, has announced she plans to retire on December 3, 2010, after 14 years of service to the school system.
New contracts will be reviewed, including:
Laura Weigold, ISMS resource assistant, effective October 11, 2010
Greg Reynolds, ISMS long term substitute language arts teacher, replacing Kim Walter, effective approximately end of November, 2010 through March 4, 2011.
Todd Fruehling, CCHS long term substitute 50% english teacher, replacing Andrew McDaniel, effective September 21, 2010 through end of second trimester.
Jacqueline White, ISMS long term substitute math teacher, replacing Clay Geiger, effective October 11, 2010 through approximately 6 weeks.
Rebekah Hawks, ISMS long term substitute resource teacher, replacing Carrie Veit, effective approximately November 29, 2010 through March 2, 2011.
Jeni Sackett, MRES preschool instructional assistant, effective October 11, 2010.
Sue Dittmer, transportation part-time bus driver, effective October 18, 2010.
Tom Barnes, LTES custodian, effective October 19, 2010.
Regarding transfers, Mark Carter, custodian, from Little Turtle Elementary will transfer to Coesse Elementary effective October 19, 2010.
Jann Johnson, ISMS language arts seventh grade teacher, and Marla Rubin, NHES guidance, have both requested paid leave of absence.
Leona Walker, Christia Whitacre and Shirley Long are requesting unpaid leave of absences.
The following extra co-curricular assignments will be reviewed:
Candy Smith, NHES 50% Math Bowl coach, effective September 27, 2010
Heidi Moreno, ISMS 50% student council, effective September 13, 2010
Katie Waterfall, ISMS 50% student council, effective September 13, 2010
Dennis Beckner, ISMS 50% Spell Bowl coach, effective September 24, 2010
John McCallister, ISMS 7th grade boys basketball coach, effective November 1, 2010
Melanie Bechtold, CCHS 50% prom sponsor , effective September 27, 2010
Jennifer Zorger, CCHS Girls varsity assistant basketball coach, effective October 25, 2010
Ben Bunyan, CCHS Girls varsity assistant basketball coach, effective October 25, 2010
Angela Roy, CCHS Girls freshman basketball coach, effective October 25, 2010
Blain Culp, CCHS assistant wrestling coach, effective November 1, 2010
Beth Scharpenberg, CCHS 50% FEA Club, effective September 27, 2010
Bridget Judy, CCHS 50% Science Olympiad, effective October 1, 2010
Tally Sheppard, CCHS Chess/Game Club, effective September 7, 2010
The following extra co-curricular resignations will be reviewed:
Michelle Simmons, NHES 50% Math Bowl coach, effective September 24, 2010
Lindsay White, ISMS girls soccer coach, effective September 24, 2010
Linda Yoder, ISMS 50% Spell Bowl coach, effective September 24, 2010
Carolyn Hindbaugh, CCHS dramatics vocal coach, effective September 23, 2010
Kyler Kearby, CCHS assistant wrestling coach, effective September 21, 2010
Andrew Weaver, CCHS 50% Science Olympiad, effective October 1, 2010
Phil Stanczak, CCHS 50% prom sponsor, effective September 27, 2010
Barbara Pentangelo, CCHS 50% FEA Club, effective September 27, 2010
Jeff Slain, CCHS head wrestling coach, effective October 13, 2010
The following volunteer co-curricular assignments will be reviewed:
Michael Roy, CCHS girls freshman assistant basketball coach, effective October 25, 2010
Marcus Moore, CCHS assistant basketball coach effective October 25, 2010
Donald Rondeau, CCHS assistant track coach, effective October 19, 2010
Tina Vandersaul, CCHS assistant track coach, effective October 19, 2010
Greg Sauers, CCHS assistant track coach, effective October 19, 2010
Kevin Eames, CCHS assistant track coach, effective October 19, 2010
Justin Gaff, CCHS assistant Chess/Game Club, effective September 7, 2010
Pat Williams, CCHS assistant swim coach, effective November 2, 2010
Jill Kitson-Stewart, CCHS assistant girls basketball coach, effective November 8, 2010
Other topics of discussion will include a request to seek bids for 2011 Transportation Purchase, approval of the agreement with Troy Center Learning Program, approval of Project Lead the Way course offerings and course fees and approval of construction documents for bids to construct the new Eagle Tech Academy.
Additionally, an update on the Eagle Tech Academy will be provided.
Whitley County Consolidated Schools' board of trustees will meet Monday, October 18, at 7 p.m. at the Marshall Community Center, 107 North Walnut Street in Columbia City.
Mariah Schaefer, a fourth grade student at Northern Heights Elementary School, will present the Pledge of Allegiance. Schaefer will be introduced by school principal Robert Hoke.
Jan Boylen and Gregg Goewert will provide school improvement goals and plans for Indian Springs Middle School and Columbia City High School, respectively.
Mary Brashear, a custodian at Indian Springs Middle School, has announced she plans to retire on December 3, 2010, after 14 years of service to the school system.
New contracts will be reviewed, including:
Laura Weigold, ISMS resource assistant, effective October 11, 2010
Greg Reynolds, ISMS long term substitute language arts teacher, replacing Kim Walter, effective approximately end of November, 2010 through March 4, 2011.
Todd Fruehling, CCHS long term substitute 50% english teacher, replacing Andrew McDaniel, effective September 21, 2010 through end of second trimester.
Jacqueline White, ISMS long term substitute math teacher, replacing Clay Geiger, effective October 11, 2010 through approximately 6 weeks.
Rebekah Hawks, ISMS long term substitute resource teacher, replacing Carrie Veit, effective approximately November 29, 2010 through March 2, 2011.
Jeni Sackett, MRES preschool instructional assistant, effective October 11, 2010.
Sue Dittmer, transportation part-time bus driver, effective October 18, 2010.
Tom Barnes, LTES custodian, effective October 19, 2010.
Regarding transfers, Mark Carter, custodian, from Little Turtle Elementary will transfer to Coesse Elementary effective October 19, 2010.
Jann Johnson, ISMS language arts seventh grade teacher, and Marla Rubin, NHES guidance, have both requested paid leave of absence.
Leona Walker, Christia Whitacre and Shirley Long are requesting unpaid leave of absences.
The following extra co-curricular assignments will be reviewed:
Candy Smith, NHES 50% Math Bowl coach, effective September 27, 2010
Heidi Moreno, ISMS 50% student council, effective September 13, 2010
Katie Waterfall, ISMS 50% student council, effective September 13, 2010
Dennis Beckner, ISMS 50% Spell Bowl coach, effective September 24, 2010
John McCallister, ISMS 7th grade boys basketball coach, effective November 1, 2010
Melanie Bechtold, CCHS 50% prom sponsor , effective September 27, 2010
Jennifer Zorger, CCHS Girls varsity assistant basketball coach, effective October 25, 2010
Ben Bunyan, CCHS Girls varsity assistant basketball coach, effective October 25, 2010
Angela Roy, CCHS Girls freshman basketball coach, effective October 25, 2010
Blain Culp, CCHS assistant wrestling coach, effective November 1, 2010
Beth Scharpenberg, CCHS 50% FEA Club, effective September 27, 2010
Bridget Judy, CCHS 50% Science Olympiad, effective October 1, 2010
Tally Sheppard, CCHS Chess/Game Club, effective September 7, 2010
The following extra co-curricular resignations will be reviewed:
Michelle Simmons, NHES 50% Math Bowl coach, effective September 24, 2010
Lindsay White, ISMS girls soccer coach, effective September 24, 2010
Linda Yoder, ISMS 50% Spell Bowl coach, effective September 24, 2010
Carolyn Hindbaugh, CCHS dramatics vocal coach, effective September 23, 2010
Kyler Kearby, CCHS assistant wrestling coach, effective September 21, 2010
Andrew Weaver, CCHS 50% Science Olympiad, effective October 1, 2010
Phil Stanczak, CCHS 50% prom sponsor, effective September 27, 2010
Barbara Pentangelo, CCHS 50% FEA Club, effective September 27, 2010
Jeff Slain, CCHS head wrestling coach, effective October 13, 2010
The following volunteer co-curricular assignments will be reviewed:
Michael Roy, CCHS girls freshman assistant basketball coach, effective October 25, 2010
Marcus Moore, CCHS assistant basketball coach effective October 25, 2010
Donald Rondeau, CCHS assistant track coach, effective October 19, 2010
Tina Vandersaul, CCHS assistant track coach, effective October 19, 2010
Greg Sauers, CCHS assistant track coach, effective October 19, 2010
Kevin Eames, CCHS assistant track coach, effective October 19, 2010
Justin Gaff, CCHS assistant Chess/Game Club, effective September 7, 2010
Pat Williams, CCHS assistant swim coach, effective November 2, 2010
Jill Kitson-Stewart, CCHS assistant girls basketball coach, effective November 8, 2010
Other topics of discussion will include a request to seek bids for 2011 Transportation Purchase, approval of the agreement with Troy Center Learning Program, approval of Project Lead the Way course offerings and course fees and approval of construction documents for bids to construct the new Eagle Tech Academy.
Additionally, an update on the Eagle Tech Academy will be provided.
Cancer Services' program director receives oncology certification
Gail Hamm, program director for Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana, has been certified by the Board of Oncology Social Work Certification.
This process required extensive documentation of education, training, professional affiliations, community, and professional involvement and day-to-day work responsibilities with oncology patients. This prestigious qualification is held by only three other individuals in the state of Indiana.
Hamm is a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of social work experience in hospital, hospice and palliative care, community social services and grief and loss.
Dianne May, president and CEO, says, “This certification is one more example of Cancer Services’ commitment to high quality programs and services for all people with cancer in our region.”
Cancer Services’ mission is to enhance the quality of life of those affected by cancer by providing meaningful resources, information and compassionate assistance. Last year, more than 3,000 local people with cancer and their families received emotional support and practical resources for their cancer journey.
Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana helps people who live in Allen, Adams, DeKalb, Huntington, Kosciusko, LaGrange, Noble, Steuben, Wabash, Wells, and Whitley counties.
To learn more about Cancer Services, visit www.cancer-services.org.
This process required extensive documentation of education, training, professional affiliations, community, and professional involvement and day-to-day work responsibilities with oncology patients. This prestigious qualification is held by only three other individuals in the state of Indiana.
Hamm is a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of social work experience in hospital, hospice and palliative care, community social services and grief and loss.
Dianne May, president and CEO, says, “This certification is one more example of Cancer Services’ commitment to high quality programs and services for all people with cancer in our region.”
Cancer Services’ mission is to enhance the quality of life of those affected by cancer by providing meaningful resources, information and compassionate assistance. Last year, more than 3,000 local people with cancer and their families received emotional support and practical resources for their cancer journey.
Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana helps people who live in Allen, Adams, DeKalb, Huntington, Kosciusko, LaGrange, Noble, Steuben, Wabash, Wells, and Whitley counties.
To learn more about Cancer Services, visit www.cancer-services.org.
October 16, 2010
South Whitley Lions Club members plan Halloween event
On October 31, 2010, the South Whitley County Lions Club will be having a Halloween get-together at the fire station beginning at 4 p.m.
Members will be selling grilled hot dogs for $1, grilled brats for $1.50 and sodas for 50 cents. They will have a treat for anyone dressed up.
Put on your funny face and eat with the Lions Club. Everyone is welcome -- not just kids.
Members will be selling grilled hot dogs for $1, grilled brats for $1.50 and sodas for 50 cents. They will have a treat for anyone dressed up.
Put on your funny face and eat with the Lions Club. Everyone is welcome -- not just kids.
DAR offers ‘Services for Veterans’ program
The Daughters of the American Revolution, Colonel Augustin de la Balme Chapter of Whitley County, will host a program for Veterans and their families on November 10.
The program will begin at 1 p.m. that day at The Woodlands Senior Center at 710 North Opportunity Drive, Columbia City.
The program is presented by Erick Dungan, volunteer services specialist of the VA Hospitals in Fort Wayne and Marion, Indiana.
The program will begin at 1 p.m. that day at The Woodlands Senior Center at 710 North Opportunity Drive, Columbia City.
The program is presented by Erick Dungan, volunteer services specialist of the VA Hospitals in Fort Wayne and Marion, Indiana.
Holiday Bazaar and Quilt show planned for November 5-6 at Whitley County 4-H Center
The annual Holiday Bazaar and Quilt Show sponsored by the Whitley County Extension Homemakers is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, November 5 and 6, at the Whitley County 4-H Center.
The show hours are Friday, November 5, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, November 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The bazaar features many of the regions best, most creative crafters. Meals will be served throughout the day.
The show hours are Friday, November 5, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, November 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The bazaar features many of the regions best, most creative crafters. Meals will be served throughout the day.
October 15, 2010
'Busco claims NECC win
Look for additional coverage of all three Whitley County high schools' wins on the Talk of the Town sports page.
Harvest Moon Festival is Saturday in Columbia City
(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Tomorrow is the final day of the Columbia City Farmers Market. Market vendors will be on hand from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. In celebration of a good harvest, tomorrow, Saturday, October 16, will also be the third annual Whitley County Harvest Moon Festival. As part of the event, a fall dessert cookoff begins at 9:30 a.m. and a contest begins at 9 a.m. for homegrown pumpkins, decorated pumpkins and odd produce. Additionally, volunteers from the Whitley County Historical Society will have some activities for children from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Above, Harvest Moon Festival attendees in 2009 enjoyed contests and a great variety of locally grown squash and produce. There is still time to plan to enter the contests tomorrow. For more information, send an email to: jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com
Oak Grove United Methodist Church hosting Soupfest on October 23
From reports
Oak Grove United Methodist Church is hosting Soupfest on October 23 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the church. The event will feature several kinds of soup, salads, & desserts.
Proceeds go to local persons having severe health problems and large medical bills.
Cape Canaveral base commander urges FCA students to focus on science, technology, engineering and math
Craft fascinating interior design inspirations using lawn and garden finds
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
This time of year, there is so much color and beauty in the great outdoors -- wouldn't it be wonderful to bring it all indoors to enjoy it?
On Saturday, October 23, from 10-11 a.m. interior design gurus Cathy Heritier of Bravo Home and Gift and Sharon Geiger of Interior Designs will present a workshop to help you do just that -- bring the things you enjoy from your lawn and garden indoors to enjoy for Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas too.
Heritier and Geiger will present ideas on home holiday decor utilizing outside garden items like gourds, pumpkins, colorful leaves, vines, hydrangeas and more. They will show you how to take these simple items and transform them into fascinating displays for the holidays.
No registration is required and no cost to participate.
This event is sponsored by the Whitley County Master Gardeners.
This time of year, there is so much color and beauty in the great outdoors -- wouldn't it be wonderful to bring it all indoors to enjoy it?
On Saturday, October 23, from 10-11 a.m. interior design gurus Cathy Heritier of Bravo Home and Gift and Sharon Geiger of Interior Designs will present a workshop to help you do just that -- bring the things you enjoy from your lawn and garden indoors to enjoy for Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas too.
Heritier and Geiger will present ideas on home holiday decor utilizing outside garden items like gourds, pumpkins, colorful leaves, vines, hydrangeas and more. They will show you how to take these simple items and transform them into fascinating displays for the holidays.
No registration is required and no cost to participate.
This event is sponsored by the Whitley County Master Gardeners.
Wells, Maloney to lead Whitley County Chamber Ambassadors
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
On Thursday, new leadership was appointed for the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors. The Ambassadors serve as the public relations arm of the Chamber, coordinating ribbon cuttings, honoring Business of the Month winners and serving as goodwill ambassadors for business within the community. Co-directing the Ambassadors will be Cari Wells, left, manager of First Source Bank in Columbia City and Kristi Maloney, marketing director for Sycamore Village Assisted Living.
Limited tickets still available for Chamber Celebration event next week
You still have time to reserve tickets for the 2010 Chamber Celebration, “Jazz Under the Stars."
The event is scheduled for Wednesday, October 20 at 6:30 p.m.
You won't want to miss this exciting evening at The Brownstone on State in South Whitley filled with live jazz provided by Blue River Express, an amazing spread of hors d’euvres, drinks, desserts, great networking and some special gifts for all those in attendance.
This event is not a "sit down" meal -- so guests are welcome to arrive early and stay late -- or arrive late if it is more conducive to their schedule.
To reserve your tickets, call Michelle Culbertson at 248-8131.
The event is scheduled for Wednesday, October 20 at 6:30 p.m.
You won't want to miss this exciting evening at The Brownstone on State in South Whitley filled with live jazz provided by Blue River Express, an amazing spread of hors d’euvres, drinks, desserts, great networking and some special gifts for all those in attendance.
This event is not a "sit down" meal -- so guests are welcome to arrive early and stay late -- or arrive late if it is more conducive to their schedule.
To reserve your tickets, call Michelle Culbertson at 248-8131.
October 14, 2010
Honor or memorialize a veteran or service member with an ornament at Peabody Public Library
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Peabody Public Library is urging the community to honor or memorialize veterans and members of the military by creating ornaments in their honor on the Our Heroes' Tree. The ornament, below, is one that has been created for the tree. There is no cost to participate.
Article provided
The Military Family Research Institute at Purdue University (MFRI) is partnering with Peabody Public Library in Whitley County to present Our Heroes’ Tree. Through this program, MFRI and Peabody Public Library are working to honor past and present service members and create an awareness of military families currently affected by deployment.
“For Indiana citizens, the public library is a community gathering place where information is found and shared. It is a place where new information and ideas increase the knowledge and awareness of community members. Partnering with libraries for Our Heroes’ Tree creates an opportunity for libraries to increase awareness within their own communities about the service and sacrifice fellow citizens have made in defense of their state and country,” said Kathy Broniarczyk, director of outreach for MFRI. “By increasing community awareness about the uniqueness of military life and service, libraries show their support and understanding of this special population.”
Our Heroes’ Tree is a national program founded to recognize and honor the sacrifices of current service members, veterans and deceased service members. Participating libraries will display a tree featuring handmade ornaments created by community members to honor a service member. Libraries will also offer resources to help these communities provide support and generate a greater understanding of the experiences of servicemen and women and their families.
To participate in Our Heroes’ Tree, simply create a handmade ornament honoring the service member from past and present wars, conflicts or peacetime operations. There will also be materials available at the library to craft your ornament. Bring the ornament to Peabody Public Library during the month of October where it will be placed on the tree with other commemorative ornaments. The tree will also be on display at the library for our Salute to Veterans on November 14.
The Virtual Heroes’ Tree will launch for viewing on the web at www.cfs.purdue.edu/mfri/VirtualTree.
Purdue University and libraries statewide are excited to continue this initiative in an effort to promote patriotism throughout communities.
To learn more, contact Deb Lowrance at the Peabody Public Library by calling 244-5541.
Article provided
The Military Family Research Institute at Purdue University (MFRI) is partnering with Peabody Public Library in Whitley County to present Our Heroes’ Tree. Through this program, MFRI and Peabody Public Library are working to honor past and present service members and create an awareness of military families currently affected by deployment.
“For Indiana citizens, the public library is a community gathering place where information is found and shared. It is a place where new information and ideas increase the knowledge and awareness of community members. Partnering with libraries for Our Heroes’ Tree creates an opportunity for libraries to increase awareness within their own communities about the service and sacrifice fellow citizens have made in defense of their state and country,” said Kathy Broniarczyk, director of outreach for MFRI. “By increasing community awareness about the uniqueness of military life and service, libraries show their support and understanding of this special population.”
Our Heroes’ Tree is a national program founded to recognize and honor the sacrifices of current service members, veterans and deceased service members. Participating libraries will display a tree featuring handmade ornaments created by community members to honor a service member. Libraries will also offer resources to help these communities provide support and generate a greater understanding of the experiences of servicemen and women and their families.
To participate in Our Heroes’ Tree, simply create a handmade ornament honoring the service member from past and present wars, conflicts or peacetime operations. There will also be materials available at the library to craft your ornament. Bring the ornament to Peabody Public Library during the month of October where it will be placed on the tree with other commemorative ornaments. The tree will also be on display at the library for our Salute to Veterans on November 14.
The Virtual Heroes’ Tree will launch for viewing on the web at www.cfs.purdue.edu/mfri/VirtualTree.
Purdue University and libraries statewide are excited to continue this initiative in an effort to promote patriotism throughout communities.
To learn more, contact Deb Lowrance at the Peabody Public Library by calling 244-5541.
Indiana ranks sixth in the nation and 'Best in the Midwest' for business development
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
According to a report released today by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation this morning, Indiana ranks sixth nationally and "Best in the Midwest" for a best place to do business.
A recent report in Area Development Online magazine cites industry consultants and site selectors for recognizing Indiana as a top location to do business in the nation.
"Our success is a direct result of creating a comprehensive economic development infrastructure that stimulates growth at each stage of the business cycle, from R&D to ROI," said E. Mitchell Roob, Indiana Secretary of Commerce.
Sitting ahead of Indiana nationally were Tennessee, Texas, South Carolina, Alabama and Georgia.
When making their decisions on best states for economic development, consultants and site selectors considered eight, equally-weighted criteria, including: lowest business costs, most business friendly, corporate tax environment, overall labor climate, work force development programs, fast-track permitting, rail and highway accessibility and shovel-ready sites.
According to a report released today by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation this morning, Indiana ranks sixth nationally and "Best in the Midwest" for a best place to do business.
A recent report in Area Development Online magazine cites industry consultants and site selectors for recognizing Indiana as a top location to do business in the nation.
"Our success is a direct result of creating a comprehensive economic development infrastructure that stimulates growth at each stage of the business cycle, from R&D to ROI," said E. Mitchell Roob, Indiana Secretary of Commerce.
Sitting ahead of Indiana nationally were Tennessee, Texas, South Carolina, Alabama and Georgia.
When making their decisions on best states for economic development, consultants and site selectors considered eight, equally-weighted criteria, including: lowest business costs, most business friendly, corporate tax environment, overall labor climate, work force development programs, fast-track permitting, rail and highway accessibility and shovel-ready sites.
Snapshots: Thomas R. Marshall Dinner in South Whitley in September
Snapshots: Whitley County GOP's October breakfast meeting
Volunteers needed to help with Parkview Whitley Hospice's Pumpkin Run on October 31
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
It won't be long now until the first annual Parkview Whitley Hospice Pumpkin Run on October 31.
According to Candice Yeakle of the Parkview Whitley Hospital Foundation, a number of volunteers are still needed to help with the event and ensure its success.
"We need about 24 volunteers to help with safety during our Pumpkin Run on October 31st between 1:30 and 3:45 p.m.," Yeakle said. "Volunteers will be placed along the course at key intersections with safety cones and flags to assure runner/walker and motorist safety."
Yeakle is hoping to find groups or families interested in helping.
The Pumpkin Run features a 5K run/walk and also a 10K run. The event will begin at 2 p.m. at the Whitley County 4-H Center. Check-in begins at noon. Awards will be presented in a variety of age categories.
For online registration, visit foundations.parkview.com/pumpkinrun
For additional information about volunteering for the event, contact Candice Yeakle at 248-9802 or via email at candice.yeakle@parkview.com
It won't be long now until the first annual Parkview Whitley Hospice Pumpkin Run on October 31.
According to Candice Yeakle of the Parkview Whitley Hospital Foundation, a number of volunteers are still needed to help with the event and ensure its success.
"We need about 24 volunteers to help with safety during our Pumpkin Run on October 31st between 1:30 and 3:45 p.m.," Yeakle said. "Volunteers will be placed along the course at key intersections with safety cones and flags to assure runner/walker and motorist safety."
Yeakle is hoping to find groups or families interested in helping.
The Pumpkin Run features a 5K run/walk and also a 10K run. The event will begin at 2 p.m. at the Whitley County 4-H Center. Check-in begins at noon. Awards will be presented in a variety of age categories.
For online registration, visit foundations.parkview.com/pumpkinrun
For additional information about volunteering for the event, contact Candice Yeakle at 248-9802 or via email at candice.yeakle@parkview.com
Nine vying for County Council caucus win
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
On Saturday, eight of the nine confirmed candidates seeking the vacant seat on the Whitley County Council spoke before those in attendance at the Whitley County Republican Party's monthly breakfast meeting at the CC Deli in Columbia City.
On October 20, at 5:30 p.m., it will be up to Whitley County's 34 Republican precinct committee members to choose a candidate to step into the council seat that will be vacated on election day by soon-to-be Senator Jim Banks. The caucus will be held in the County Council Chambers at the Whitley County Government Building. The community is invited to attend and witness the caucus process in action. Caucuses are typically a rarity -- however Whitley County Republican precinct committee members have voted in three this year.
The candidates who've already filed for the caucus include Paula Reimers, Cheryl McDevitt, Jim Macino, Matt Boyd, Richard Kyler, Steve Smith, Max Zimmerman, Scott Darley and Doug Schrader. Whomever is elected at the caucus will immediately step into the seat on election day and fill out the remaining year of Banks' term.
The candidate list may still grow as interested parties have until early next week to file with the Whitley County Clerk's Office.
Above, from left, is Paula Reimers, Steve Smith, Jim Macino, Matt Boyd, Max Zimmerman, Cheryl McDevitt, Jim Banks, Scott Darley and Richard Kyler. Doug Schrader did not attend the breakfast.
Whitley GOP's annual hog roast is October 28 at the Whitley County 4-H Center
The Whitley County GOP is hosting their annual pre-election hog roast on Thursday, October 28, at 6 p.m. at the Whitley County 4-H Center.
Featured speakers will include candidates Tim Berry, Richard Mourdock and others who are not yet confirmed.
Free will donations are appreciated for this event.
The event will also feature a silent auction. To donate items, contact Laurell Hodges at 248-9764.
Featured speakers will include candidates Tim Berry, Richard Mourdock and others who are not yet confirmed.
Free will donations are appreciated for this event.
The event will also feature a silent auction. To donate items, contact Laurell Hodges at 248-9764.
Fundraiser set for Jason Christman on October 18
On Monday, October 18, friends of Jason Christman will host a fundraising dinner at Pizza Hut in Columbia City.
The fundraiser will be held from 5-8 p.m. and several activities will be going on at the restaurant to help further raise funds. Christman was seriously injured in a car accident this summer.
The fundraiser will be held from 5-8 p.m. and several activities will be going on at the restaurant to help further raise funds. Christman was seriously injured in a car accident this summer.
October 13, 2010
Passing history on to the next generation
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
There's no doubt each generation has a lot to share with the next -- particularly when it comes to passing along historical lore and treasured stories about the community. Above, Indian Springs Middle School students Madisun Carmean and Gloria Tippmann listen this afternoon as historian Pat Reed shares stories about one of several homes along North Chauncey Street's "Silk Stocking Row." The homes were built by some of the community's most esteemed turn-of-the-century residents and the gradeur lives on today. The name "Silk Stocking Row" refers to the homeowners' ability, at that time, to afford finery -- such as silk stockings. The students plan to use the information they collect from Reed as part of a project to create an architectural and historical walking tour of Columbia City's historic district.
Local grower launches new CSA program to help residents enjoy fresh, Whitley County veggies all winter
(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Imagine the delight in receiving fresh, locally-grown vegetables during the winter months? Thanks to a local grower, Goldwood Gardens, a winter CSA program has become a reality this year -- but you need to register soon if you're interested.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Local residents eager to embrace a diet high in organic or locally grown produce have become accustomed to making regular visits to the local farmers markets and many have learned the benefits of community supported agriculture (CSA) programs during the summer months.
Those who subscribe to CSAs receive weekly bundles of fresh produce and other organic items -- fresh produce, fruits and more.
One local grower has lead the way with summer CSA programs, Canda Goldwood of Goldwood Gardens in rural Whitley County.
Goldwood has now set her sights on offering a winter CSA program -- ensuring her subscribers will receive fresh produce all winter long as well.
Now, just 15 spots remain in her winter CSA program and she hopes local residents who'd like to enjoy locally grown vegetables during the winter months will sign up.
Because Goldwood's farming enterprise includes greenhouse space, she'll continue growing fresh vegetables well into the winter months. CSA participants will also enjoy a variety of natural food items and cellar items.
"We'll have beets, root vegetables, squash and other items from our cellars," Goldwood said. "We'll also have lettuce, lot of greens, some herbs and natural food items like eggs and honey."
Goldwood Gardens grows a variety of heirloom and open pollinated fruits and vegetables. Additionally, they only use non-genetically modified seed and do not use chemicals or pesticides.
Goldwood said she needs to have all CSA participants confirmed by the end of October to ensure they'll receive their harvest. Each week, full share participants will receive upwards of $20 worth of produce each week. Half shares are also available.
Full shares cost $200 for the winter CSA and half shares cost $125 for the winter CSA.
Weekly pick-ups will be offered on Tuesdays from 3-6 p.m. at the farm, Wednesdays from 5-6:30 p.m. at Tractor Supply Company in Columbia City and on Fridays from 3-6 p.m. at the farm.
For more information or to register for the Goldwood Gardens Winter CSA program, call Canda Goldwood at 229-1421.
Goldwood Gardens is located at 4750 West 350 North in Whitley County. The farm is registered with www.LocalHarvest.org as a northeast Indiana CSA program.
South Whitley community gathers for victims of domestic violence
Dresslar to lead 'Community Conversation' about 21st Century Education
(Talk of the Town photo provided)
Article provided
Residents from Churubusco, Columbia City, Larwill, South Whitley and the Tri Lakes area are invited to participate in a Community Conversation about 21st Century Education in Whitley County on Tuesday, November 9th at 7:00 p.m. at the Peabody Public Library. 
Sponsored by the Indiana Humanities Council and the Bowen Center for Public Affairs, the event will feature Dr. David Dresslar, Executive Director of the Center for Excellence in Leadership & Learning.
While he doesn't carry a crystal ball, Dr. Dresslar can provide a fascinating look into the future of education.
Following his talk, guests will be asked to participate in round-table discussions by sharing their thoughts and recommendations for action to address education innovation in Whitley County. The event is scheduled to end by 8:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served.
To make attendance even more enticing, one lucky participant's name will be drawn to direct a $5,000 grant to the Whitley County School of their choice for STEM related programs and materials.
A teacher's name will also be drawn to direct a similar $2,500 grant to their classroom.
While open to the public, seating is limited and will be allocated on a first-come basis. To reserve a space, call the Community Foundation at 244-5224, or send an e-mail to sepwccf@gmail.com.
The event is being offered in conjunction with the Community Foundation's WhitleyForward initiative.
'Meet the Candidates' event slated for October 25 at Peabody Public Library
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The weeks are now winding down and becoming days until the 2010 General Election.
With coverage in the media and numerous public events, the voting public has had opportunities to become familiar with candidates names and faces. On Monday, October 25, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Whitley County voters will have an opportunity to take the learning process a bit further at a "Meet the Candidates" forum at Peabody Public Library.
Organized by the Fort Wayne Area Association of Realtors, the event is open to all Whitley County residents who'd like to learn more about the candidates in the upcoming election.
Pone Vongphachanh, governmental affairs director with the Fort Wayne Area Association of Realtors, works with governmental entities as part of her role with the organization across a six-county area.
Vongphachanh said that in her role, she works to establish relationships with business, government and industry across northeast Indiana, meeting frequently with elected officials, administrations and their staff, housing departments, community development partnerships, plan commissions, etc. regarding a variety of issues.
In other communities this election cycle, Vongphachanh has helped to coordinate similar candidate forums and hopes Whitley County residents will find it helpful as well.
Vongphachanh said all candidates in contested and uncontested races within Whitley County have been invited to attend and participate. Each candidate in a contested race will have three minutes to speak. Candidates in uncontested races will have two minutes to speak. Before and after the forum, there will be time allotted for individuals to talk candidly with candidates to ask questions or seek additional information.
"As individuals have questions, they'll have an opportunity to talk before and after their speeches," Vongphachanh said. "We would like to see people more involved and at least have their questions answered."
Candidates will not be asked any questions during the forum, nor will there be debating.
"Sometimes hearing people debate isn't always the best way to find out what their frame of mind is," Vongphachanh added. "A social setting to mix and mingle is a good way for voters to get to know who will be representing them."
The weeks are now winding down and becoming days until the 2010 General Election.
With coverage in the media and numerous public events, the voting public has had opportunities to become familiar with candidates names and faces. On Monday, October 25, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Whitley County voters will have an opportunity to take the learning process a bit further at a "Meet the Candidates" forum at Peabody Public Library.
Organized by the Fort Wayne Area Association of Realtors, the event is open to all Whitley County residents who'd like to learn more about the candidates in the upcoming election.
Pone Vongphachanh, governmental affairs director with the Fort Wayne Area Association of Realtors, works with governmental entities as part of her role with the organization across a six-county area.
Vongphachanh said that in her role, she works to establish relationships with business, government and industry across northeast Indiana, meeting frequently with elected officials, administrations and their staff, housing departments, community development partnerships, plan commissions, etc. regarding a variety of issues.
In other communities this election cycle, Vongphachanh has helped to coordinate similar candidate forums and hopes Whitley County residents will find it helpful as well.
Vongphachanh said all candidates in contested and uncontested races within Whitley County have been invited to attend and participate. Each candidate in a contested race will have three minutes to speak. Candidates in uncontested races will have two minutes to speak. Before and after the forum, there will be time allotted for individuals to talk candidly with candidates to ask questions or seek additional information.
"As individuals have questions, they'll have an opportunity to talk before and after their speeches," Vongphachanh said. "We would like to see people more involved and at least have their questions answered."
Candidates will not be asked any questions during the forum, nor will there be debating.
"Sometimes hearing people debate isn't always the best way to find out what their frame of mind is," Vongphachanh added. "A social setting to mix and mingle is a good way for voters to get to know who will be representing them."
Whitley County Community Foundation organizes forum for community to meet school board candidates
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
When local residents think about the upcoming general election, partisan politics is typically the first thought to ponder.
However, this election cycle also brings with it an important non-partisan election for those interested in serving on the Whitley County Consolidated Schools' board of trustees.
To help with that decision, the Whitley County Community Foundation is sponsoring a public forum for all candidates to speak, share ideas and meet the community. The forum is set for October 26 at 7 p.m. in the Newell Rice Auditorium at Columbia City High School.
Four seats are open on the Whitley County Consolidated School board -- including seats currently held by Tim Bloom, Don Armstrong, Nicki Baker and Brooks Langeloh. Bloom, Armstrong and Langeloh are all seeking re-election.
Joining the race for those seats are Chris Bechtold, Eric Horvath, Herschel Aumsbaugh, Terry L. Smith, Richard Eckert and Leah Heaston.
All candidates have been invited to attend the forum, but as of Tuesday, only Bechtold, Bloom, Horvath, Armstrong and Langeloh have confirmed their attendance.
When local residents think about the upcoming general election, partisan politics is typically the first thought to ponder.
However, this election cycle also brings with it an important non-partisan election for those interested in serving on the Whitley County Consolidated Schools' board of trustees.
To help with that decision, the Whitley County Community Foundation is sponsoring a public forum for all candidates to speak, share ideas and meet the community. The forum is set for October 26 at 7 p.m. in the Newell Rice Auditorium at Columbia City High School.
Four seats are open on the Whitley County Consolidated School board -- including seats currently held by Tim Bloom, Don Armstrong, Nicki Baker and Brooks Langeloh. Bloom, Armstrong and Langeloh are all seeking re-election.
Joining the race for those seats are Chris Bechtold, Eric Horvath, Herschel Aumsbaugh, Terry L. Smith, Richard Eckert and Leah Heaston.
All candidates have been invited to attend the forum, but as of Tuesday, only Bechtold, Bloom, Horvath, Armstrong and Langeloh have confirmed their attendance.
Nominate a business that has made a difference in the quality of life for Whitley County residents
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Today is the deadline for local residents to nominate businesses for the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce's Business of the Year award.
Nominations are accepted annually from businesses in the community who have impacted the quality of life in Whitley County during the past year. The winner will be publicly acknowledged during the 2010 Chamber Celebration on Wednesday, October 20, at The Brownstone on State in South Whitley.
Nominees should meet the following criteria:
- A member of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce in good standing.
- Show a strong commitment to the betterment of this community.
- Excel in areas such as hiring, training, education, community involvement or economic development.
The award will be presented based on the quality and impact of the contribution to Whitley County. Nominations must be submitted to the Chamber by the end of the business day today, October 13, 2010.
The following information should be provided to the Chamber for a nomination: business name, nominator's name and reasons for the nomination. The information should then be emailed to: office@whitleychamber.com
To verify that the business you'd like to recommend is a Chamber member in good standing, click here and review the Chamber's membership directory.
Today is the deadline for local residents to nominate businesses for the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce's Business of the Year award.
Nominations are accepted annually from businesses in the community who have impacted the quality of life in Whitley County during the past year. The winner will be publicly acknowledged during the 2010 Chamber Celebration on Wednesday, October 20, at The Brownstone on State in South Whitley.
Nominees should meet the following criteria:
- A member of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce in good standing.
- Show a strong commitment to the betterment of this community.
- Excel in areas such as hiring, training, education, community involvement or economic development.
The award will be presented based on the quality and impact of the contribution to Whitley County. Nominations must be submitted to the Chamber by the end of the business day today, October 13, 2010.
The following information should be provided to the Chamber for a nomination: business name, nominator's name and reasons for the nomination. The information should then be emailed to: office@whitleychamber.com
To verify that the business you'd like to recommend is a Chamber member in good standing, click here and review the Chamber's membership directory.
October 12, 2010
Whitley County Fire Chiefs issue temporary open burning ban for the county
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Right now, the spark from a pile of burning leaves has the potential for disastrous consequences -- a thought weighing heavily on the minds of Whitley County's fire chiefs.
Surveying the county's vast acres of dry fields, county fire chiefs met this week and, this morning, issued a temporary ban on open burning in Whitley County.
"The fire chiefs have placed this ban on open burning to protect life and property in Whitley County," said Whitley County Fire Chiefs Association president Jeremy Hammel in the official news release this morning. "Due to the dry weather conditions any type of open burning has the potential to cause a severe fire that could place life and property in an abnormally high level of danger."
Hammel said there haven't been a lot of burning issues yet, but the chiefs wanted to be proactive and preventative.
"We anticipate that if people keep burning stuff, we're going to have problems," Hammel told Talk of the Town. "It is just so dry right now that anything has the potential to become a big problem."
That means no burning leaves, no bonfires, no campfires, no burning yard waste - nothing.
"As of right now, we're putting a ban on all open burning," Hammel said.
"Hopefully it will rain soon and we can lift it," he said. "This is just until things aren't quite as dry as they are right now. Being this dry in the fall, with the crops off...it really gives you the potential for a big fire."
Hammel said the ban will be lifted when the fire chiefs determine that conditions have improved enough to allow open burning.
Right now, the spark from a pile of burning leaves has the potential for disastrous consequences -- a thought weighing heavily on the minds of Whitley County's fire chiefs.
Surveying the county's vast acres of dry fields, county fire chiefs met this week and, this morning, issued a temporary ban on open burning in Whitley County.
"The fire chiefs have placed this ban on open burning to protect life and property in Whitley County," said Whitley County Fire Chiefs Association president Jeremy Hammel in the official news release this morning. "Due to the dry weather conditions any type of open burning has the potential to cause a severe fire that could place life and property in an abnormally high level of danger."
Hammel said there haven't been a lot of burning issues yet, but the chiefs wanted to be proactive and preventative.
"We anticipate that if people keep burning stuff, we're going to have problems," Hammel told Talk of the Town. "It is just so dry right now that anything has the potential to become a big problem."
That means no burning leaves, no bonfires, no campfires, no burning yard waste - nothing.
"As of right now, we're putting a ban on all open burning," Hammel said.
"Hopefully it will rain soon and we can lift it," he said. "This is just until things aren't quite as dry as they are right now. Being this dry in the fall, with the crops off...it really gives you the potential for a big fire."
Hammel said the ban will be lifted when the fire chiefs determine that conditions have improved enough to allow open burning.
Couple considers business opportunities for downtown South Whitley location
From the Tribune-News
It’s possible that the building that housed the former Hicks and Deaton Hardware may find new life as a coffee shop/fabric and sewing machine repair shop in the near future.
Cherie Hartman informed the town council that she and her husband, Jim, are looking into these retail options as they consider purchasing the building on State Street in South Whitley.
Hartman had several questions for the council concerning the possibility of running a drive-thru for a coffee shop in the alley that runs between the building and the neighboring Green Parrot building. She pointed out that the alley is potentially wider than before with this summer’s removal of a small leaning building attached to the Green Parrot. A drive-thru would be one-way and exit onto to State Road 5, she said.
Hartman also brought up the possibility of blocking part of the alley that goes behind State Street to the car wash to allow construction of a deck for outdoor seating.
“People could sit outside, see the park and listen to music when there are concerts,” she said.
Council president Joanne Eberhart was cautious.
“I believe people go through the alley to use the car wash,” she said.
Town attorney Greg Hockemeyer laid out the steps involved in vacating a right-of-way. With this information, Hartman said she would be able to make further inquiries and develop ideas.
Councilwoman Tonya Warner relayed an update on the status of the Green Parrot from owner Randy Striggle. Striggle recently regained ownership after a contract sale of the business fell through. Adam Flores, current manager of the Green Parrot, will become the new owner and assume responsibility for repairs ordered to be done by November 29, 2010. In August, Striggle asked for and received a time extension until November for ordered building repairs.
Hockemeyer expressed some reservations about this plan.
“Are repairs being shoved off on a new owner?” he asked. “We gave an extension because we waited to clear the ownership situation. Frankly, I think it (the repairs) could be done before the next ownership change.”
Council members agreed to ask both Striggle and Whitley County Building Inspector Craig Wagner to come to the next council meeting to discuss the situation.
Hockemeyer said representatives from Duke Energy, supplier of electric power to the town utility, will attend the next meeting to discuss rate increases. The council will also ask a representative from Umbaugh, a financial advisory and accounting firm, to be present. Warner added that business owners and employers such as Whitko Community Schools may want to attend as well.
Clerk-Treasurer Mitch Winger said that the police department will purchase two new radios at a cost of $4,714 each in order to stay compatible with the radio system used by the county sheriff department.
In other police business, it was noted that Chuck Lewallen is due to graduate from the police academy and return to his town duties.
It’s possible that the building that housed the former Hicks and Deaton Hardware may find new life as a coffee shop/fabric and sewing machine repair shop in the near future.
Cherie Hartman informed the town council that she and her husband, Jim, are looking into these retail options as they consider purchasing the building on State Street in South Whitley.
Hartman had several questions for the council concerning the possibility of running a drive-thru for a coffee shop in the alley that runs between the building and the neighboring Green Parrot building. She pointed out that the alley is potentially wider than before with this summer’s removal of a small leaning building attached to the Green Parrot. A drive-thru would be one-way and exit onto to State Road 5, she said.
Hartman also brought up the possibility of blocking part of the alley that goes behind State Street to the car wash to allow construction of a deck for outdoor seating.
“People could sit outside, see the park and listen to music when there are concerts,” she said.
Council president Joanne Eberhart was cautious.
“I believe people go through the alley to use the car wash,” she said.
Town attorney Greg Hockemeyer laid out the steps involved in vacating a right-of-way. With this information, Hartman said she would be able to make further inquiries and develop ideas.
Councilwoman Tonya Warner relayed an update on the status of the Green Parrot from owner Randy Striggle. Striggle recently regained ownership after a contract sale of the business fell through. Adam Flores, current manager of the Green Parrot, will become the new owner and assume responsibility for repairs ordered to be done by November 29, 2010. In August, Striggle asked for and received a time extension until November for ordered building repairs.
Hockemeyer expressed some reservations about this plan.
“Are repairs being shoved off on a new owner?” he asked. “We gave an extension because we waited to clear the ownership situation. Frankly, I think it (the repairs) could be done before the next ownership change.”
Council members agreed to ask both Striggle and Whitley County Building Inspector Craig Wagner to come to the next council meeting to discuss the situation.
Hockemeyer said representatives from Duke Energy, supplier of electric power to the town utility, will attend the next meeting to discuss rate increases. The council will also ask a representative from Umbaugh, a financial advisory and accounting firm, to be present. Warner added that business owners and employers such as Whitko Community Schools may want to attend as well.
Clerk-Treasurer Mitch Winger said that the police department will purchase two new radios at a cost of $4,714 each in order to stay compatible with the radio system used by the county sheriff department.
In other police business, it was noted that Chuck Lewallen is due to graduate from the police academy and return to his town duties.
Old Settlers Day Association supports community beautification with grant to Master Gardeners
(Talk of the Town photo provided)
The Old Settlers Day Association recently provided a donation of $800 to the Whitley County Master Gardeners. The Master Gardeners are responsible for the beautification and maintenance of several gardens throughout the community, including scenic spots in local parks, near the main entrance to the Whitley County Courthouse and at the Whitley County 4-H Fairgrounds. Above, Master Gardener Jan Barkley accepts the donation from the OSDA. Barkley is seated above near one of several garden areas created by the Whitley County Master Gardeners at the fairgrounds.
Kiwanians to meet Wednesday
From reports
The Whitley County Kiwanis Club will host their next meeting on Wednesday, October 13, at 1 p.m.
The meeting will be held at Parkview Whitley Hospital in conference room one.
This month's keynote speakers is Pam Deetz of First Steps. Additional topics of discussion will be upcoming fundraisers, satellite status, the Key Club at Columbia City High School and community assistance projects.
Anyone interested in serving their community is invited to attend.
Whitley County Amateur Radio Club sets date for next test session
From reports
The next Whitley County W5YI Amateur Radio Club test session will be held on Saturday, October 30, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Columbia City Eagles Lodge. The lodge is located at 306 West Van Buren Street in Columbia City.
For additional WCARC Inc information visit their website at www.wcarc.org or contact Roger McEntarfer via email at n9qcl@arrl.net or via phone at 260-503-9008.
Enjoy a full day of scrapbooking and fun with Tri Kappa on November 6
By Michelle Slavicek
The Columbia City Chapter of Tri Kappa will host their first annual Scrapbook Day on Saturday, November 6. The event will run from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, located at the corner of Main and North Streets in Columbia City.
The cost to attend is $30 and includes a table, breakfast, lunch and dinner, in addition to door prizes and tons of fun. There will be a number of vendors on hand for all your Thanksgiving and Christmas shopping needs.
Tri Kappa is a philanthropic organization that is based solely in the state of Indiana. Every year Tri Kappa of Columbia City gives away thousands of dollars to the Whitley County community in the form of scholarships and charitable donations.
To register, send your name, address, phone number and number of tables requested, along with a check payable to Tri Kappa to: Tri Kappa, PO Box 954, Columbia City, IN 46725.
For additional information, contact chapter president Angie Grable at 248-1556.
Local surgeon offering less invasive surgical technique at Parkview Whitley Hospital
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Surgeon Todd Sider, below, is now offering a single incision, laparoscopic surgical procedure in Columbia City that is ideal for patients, improving recovery time and with less scarring.
Article provided 
Todd Sider, MD, a surgeon with Indiana Surgical Specialists, Columbia City, who offers surgical services at Parkview Whitley Hospital, is introducing single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS). The procedure represents one of the most recent advances in surgery.
The next-generation surgical procedure is different from traditional surgery in that it is designed to make surgery less invasive by performing a single incision in the belly button. It uses a single port for entry instead of the multiple sites utilized in standard laparoscopic surgery.
The SILS procedure is impacting the surgical landscape with its capacity to treat a variety of conditions, from hysterectomy and appendectomy to gallbladder removal, colon surgery and hiatal hernia repair. The single-incision approach also provides the potential for no visible scarring, less post-operative pain and faster recovery time as compared to open procedures.
Cutting-edge technology, including the SILSTM Port, allows surgeons to operate through a 20-millimeter incision that is slightly smaller than the diameter of a nickel.
“Millions of patients across the country undergo laparoscopic operations with multiple incisions that are no longer necessary,” said Dr. Sider. “I am pleased to be able to offer single-incision surgery for the appropriate patients right here in Columbia City.”
October 11, 2010
Bring your best homegrown or decorated pumpkins to compete at the Whitley County Harvest Moon Festival
(Talk of the Town photo by Mahri Romano) Pumpkins have a special place at the annual Whitley County Harvest Moon Festival, scheduled for this Saturday, October 16, in downtown Columbia City. Whether they're homegrown or decorated, bring yours and compete for prizes!
By Jennifer Zartman Romano 
You'll already find them decorating the stoops and porches of homes across Whitley County, their bright orange glow beaming alongside much of the yet-green bushes and landscaping -- pumpkins!
Whether you grow them or enjoy decorating them, plan to participate in the third annual Whitley County Harvest Moon Festival’s pumpkin contest.
Bring your homegrown pumpkin or your own festively decorated pumpkin. Separate categories will be set up for homegrown Whitley County pumpkins and also for pumpkins that have been decorated in some way.
Pumpkin entries should arrive at 9 a.m. near the west entrance to the Whitley County Courthouse, where they will be put on display. Judges will select winners and announcements will be made by 11 a.m. A panel of judges will begin evaluating the entrees and award prizes for the biggest, smallest, best decorated and Whitley County’s Best pumpkin.
A one-time entry fee of $5 will be charged and individuals may submit up to three entries.
All proceeds from this contest will support the Columbia City Farmers Market. This will be the final Saturday of the Columbia City Farmers Market for the 2010 season.
10th annual Lighthouse Craft Bazaar is October 23
10th annual Lighthouse Craft Bazaar is October 23
Over 70 crafters from Northern Indiana are displaying their wares at the 10th Annual Lighthouse Craft Bazaar on October 23 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Whitley County 4-H Center Building in Columbia City.
Admission is free. A bake sale is being sponsored by Big Lake Church of God. The Lunch Cafe will be catered once again by Doug and Darlene Wright.
Over 70 crafters from Northern Indiana are displaying their wares at the 10th Annual Lighthouse Craft Bazaar on October 23 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Whitley County 4-H Center Building in Columbia City.
Admission is free. A bake sale is being sponsored by Big Lake Church of God. The Lunch Cafe will be catered once again by Doug and Darlene Wright.
Columbia City Church of the Nazarene hosting annual Fall Festival on October 30
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Columbia City Church of the Nazarene will be hosting their annual Fall Festival on Saturday, October 30, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the church.
"It's a safe alternative for Halloween and we've done it for a number of years," said Karen Davison, one of several volunteers helping to plan the event.
Davison said families can enjoy a free dinner, games, prizes and treats during the evening.
Columbia City Church of the Nazarene is located at 506 North Main Street.
For additional information, call the church at 248-8252.
CC Deli now offering an old timey favorite -- egg salad sandwiches
The next several weeks will mean new items on the menu at the CC Deli.
This week's new addition is an old timey, comfort food favorite -- just in time for the colder weather settling in -- egg salad sandwiches.
"These are great with provolone on any of our fresh baked daily breads," said owner Steve Hostetler.
This week's soups of the week include:
Monday: French Onion and Stuffed Pepper
Tuesday: Potato Bacon and Tomato Bisque
Wednesday: White Chili and Tomato Tortellini
Thursday: Chicken Dumpling and Cheesy Potato
Friday: Veggie Beef and Cream of Crab
This week's new addition is an old timey, comfort food favorite -- just in time for the colder weather settling in -- egg salad sandwiches.
"These are great with provolone on any of our fresh baked daily breads," said owner Steve Hostetler.
This week's soups of the week include:
Monday: French Onion and Stuffed Pepper
Tuesday: Potato Bacon and Tomato Bisque
Wednesday: White Chili and Tomato Tortellini
Thursday: Chicken Dumpling and Cheesy Potato
Friday: Veggie Beef and Cream of Crab
October 10, 2010
Columbia City Downtown Business Association sets holiday planning meeting for October 20
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Below, Santa Claus arrives in downtown Columbia City in 2009 -- an annual tradition that the Columbia City Downtown Business Association has taken over and hopes to expand with events throughout the month of December. A planning meeting is set for October 20 to carve out the details.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Members of the Columbia City Downtown Business Association are hosting a special meeting for business owners and representatives in the downtown area to plan promotions and activities for November and December.
Specific topics of discussion will include the upcoming Veterans Marathon, which is expected to have up to three times as many participants involved this year, and a full month of holiday activities in December.
In 2009, the CCDBA, though not yet formalized as a group, took over sponsorship of the Santa's House and planned a Christmastime shopping event, awarding several hundred dollars worth of prizes from downtown merchants.
Any downtown area business owner or representative is invited to bring ideas to the meeting. The meeting will be held October 20 at 8 a.m. at the CC Deli.
For additional information or to become a member of the CCDBA in advance of the meeting, contact association president Steve Hostetler at 248-4700.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Members of the Columbia City Downtown Business Association are hosting a special meeting for business owners and representatives in the downtown area to plan promotions and activities for November and December.
Specific topics of discussion will include the upcoming Veterans Marathon, which is expected to have up to three times as many participants involved this year, and a full month of holiday activities in December.
In 2009, the CCDBA, though not yet formalized as a group, took over sponsorship of the Santa's House and planned a Christmastime shopping event, awarding several hundred dollars worth of prizes from downtown merchants.
Any downtown area business owner or representative is invited to bring ideas to the meeting. The meeting will be held October 20 at 8 a.m. at the CC Deli.
For additional information or to become a member of the CCDBA in advance of the meeting, contact association president Steve Hostetler at 248-4700.
October 09, 2010
Whitley County Right to Life outlines achievements, plans to become a formalized non-profit in 2011
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, the 2010 Legacy of Life dinner was held in late September in Columbia City, an opportunity for supporters to spotlight the work of the Whitley County Right to Life. Below, Whitley County Right to Life president Paul Tomaszewski provides an overview of the organization's achieved goals and discusses plans to seek 501(c)3 non-profit status in the year ahead.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Last Sunday afternoon, you might have noticed people standing in silent protest in downtown Columbia City or you might have noticed any one of a dozen banners around Whitley County in support of the sanctity of human life over the past several months.
These weren't unrelated events -- but part of a consistent effort of the Whitley County Right to Life to have their mission known by residents of this community.
The Whitley County Right to Life, in conjunction with the Indiana Right to Life, held their annual Legacy of Life dinner on September 20, the largest event held in many years according to the organization's president Paul Tomaszewski.
"We saw a 20% increase in attendance this year," Tomaszewski said. 
"We're dedicated to educating the public on the sanctity of life," Tomaszewski told dinner attendees.
Tomaszewski pointed out the many ways his organization has worked to inform the citizens of Whitley County in the past year, including:
The production and distribution of a bi-monthly newsletter, developed pro-life election guides, co-sponsored a post-abortion counseling training workshop for pastors and their spouses in January 2010 as well as a three-day training retreat for counselors in March 2010, held a public meeting in the spring to reintroduce Whitley County Right to Life and sent letters to area pastors inviting them to partner with the organization.
"As an organization, we've had ebbs and flows over the year," Tomaszewski said. "We want people to know we are here."
In the year ahead, Tomaszewski said the organization intends to pursue several new goals, including seeking 501(c)3 status in order to accept tax-deductible donations, conduct a county-wide "white cross" project, establish liaisons within local churches, increase teen involvement through Friends for Life camp and the creation of a newsletter aimed at teens.
Tomaszewski said they will continue the banner project across Whitley County as well as the Life Chain event and the annual Legacy of Life dinner, since all of which have been successful, growing projects.
Other speakers at the recent Legacy of Life dinner included Lisa Davis, Pat Hatcher and Peter Heck.
For the past 10 years, Davis has been instrumental in the A Hope Center, a post-abortive program. The program offers Bible study opportunities to women and men after an abortion to aid in the emotional and spiritual healing process.
"Post-abortive women are mothers. They're not monsters," Davis said. "They're just scared women reacting out of fear."
She said women who had abortions as long as 40 years ago are now coming forward and seeking spiritual and emotional healing.
Davis added that A Hope Center's counseling services are available to men too, because, she said, "There are men hurting from abortion too. More and more men are waking up and beginning to seek healing."
Hatcher has been active in the prolife movement for more than three decades. Hatcher shared her personal experience after having an abortion in the early 1970s and her journey of recovery from a very low point in her life.
"The personal journey to self-forgiveness has been difficult," Hatcher said, but added that she's found passion to move forward in her ability to talk about the situation and voice her support of the prolife movement. "The whole point is this: if you have a voice, now is the time to speak. If you've saved one life, it was a life that matters."
Heck spoke emphatically about the pro-life movement in Indiana, providing a gut-wrenching illustration of just how many abortions have occurred in Indiana in the past four decades -- each represented by the sound of tiny metal pellets dropped into a can.
The pro-life movement, according to Heck, means "taking a stand for a most critical issue we face."
"What makes life critical is what it is," Heck said. "It is created by the hand of almighty God. It is made in the image of God. Too often those in the pro-choice movement lose sight of this."
"If we establish that what is conceived in the womb is human...game, set, match, over," he said.
Heck said he doesn't like clever anecdotes, but felt the dropping of the pellets into the can was poignant in its representation of millions of lives lost. The sound went on seemingly forever.
"If everyone can go home remembering the BBs by themselves," Heck said it would be worthwhile. "We can't go back and undo the yesterdays, but we can improve the tomorrows."
Heck urged support of local organizations like the Whitley County Right to Life, reaching out to those who grieve the abortions they've had, public discussion about the issues involved, demanding personhood for all lives, rallies, letter writing, giving campaigns and prayer.
Local quilters coordinating 'Stockings for Soldiers' to create holiday gift for those in the military
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Jo Crace and Kathy Beauchot, owners of Quilts 'n Ladybugs in downtown Columbia City hope to inspire fellow quilters to think of the soldiers during the holiday season -- sharing their time and talents to create memorable gifts for those in the military this year.
"To honor Indiana soldiers serving overseas, we have introduced Stockings for Soldiers to the community," Crace said Saturday. Crace, Beauchot and fellow quilter Diane Meister are coordinating the project locally.
The project involves workshops on October 23 and November 3 in which local residents can create handmade stockings that will be donated to soldiers. Those unable to attend the workshops are also invited to stop in and pick up a free pattern to complete a stocking at home.
Crace said the resulting stockings will then be distributed to Indiana soldiers through the Army National Guard's Family Readiness Programs.
For more information or to help with the project, contact Diane Meister at 691-6062.
Jo Crace and Kathy Beauchot, owners of Quilts 'n Ladybugs in downtown Columbia City hope to inspire fellow quilters to think of the soldiers during the holiday season -- sharing their time and talents to create memorable gifts for those in the military this year.
"To honor Indiana soldiers serving overseas, we have introduced Stockings for Soldiers to the community," Crace said Saturday. Crace, Beauchot and fellow quilter Diane Meister are coordinating the project locally.
The project involves workshops on October 23 and November 3 in which local residents can create handmade stockings that will be donated to soldiers. Those unable to attend the workshops are also invited to stop in and pick up a free pattern to complete a stocking at home.
Crace said the resulting stockings will then be distributed to Indiana soldiers through the Army National Guard's Family Readiness Programs.
For more information or to help with the project, contact Diane Meister at 691-6062.
October 08, 2010
Another win for the Eagles!
Community enjoys evening concert by Columbia City High School Marching Band on the courthouse lawn
Auditor fears 'unintended consequences' of putting tax cap in the state constitution
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Whitley County Auditor Linda Gerig hopes local voters will pay close attention to at least one item on the ballot this November 2.
Sure, a capable, fiscally responsible replacement for herself in county government is important to her -- a new auditor will be elected that day -- but Gerig is very worried about the outcome of a referendum item on the ballot that day.
Voters will be asked to put the 1% tax cap into the Indiana constitution that day -- an issue that has Gerig and auditors around the state concerned.
While voters may be inclined to vote in favor of the 1% cap, that's not the whole story.
"It's kind of a trick on words," said Whitley County councilman John Barrett as Gerig explained the issue to fellow council members Tuesday morning.
The trick, according to Gerig, is that voting for the measure makes it sound like taxes would stay set. Instead, that amount is likely to fluctuate and go up.
Gerig said the State Homestead Credit Hoosier taxpayers have become accustomed to will be going away and your tax rate will be based on the gross assessed valuation of your property.
"Your assessed valuation is going to go up," Gerig said.
"The state homestead credit will be completly phased out beginning with the 2010 pay 2011 property tax bill," Gerig said. "However, homestead owners will still received any available local homestead credits and be capped at 1 percent of the homestead's gross assessed value."
She said she believes many Hoosiers will be so confused by the question, they will vote in favor ot making it part of the constitution because it sounds like it will be keeping taxes lower -- when, in reality, it will not do that at all.
"The property tax caps are already law, but if put into the Constitution, it will takes years to change it back," Gerig added. "There is no need to put it in the Constitution. There will be unidentified consequences."
Whitley County Auditor Linda Gerig hopes local voters will pay close attention to at least one item on the ballot this November 2.
Sure, a capable, fiscally responsible replacement for herself in county government is important to her -- a new auditor will be elected that day -- but Gerig is very worried about the outcome of a referendum item on the ballot that day.
Voters will be asked to put the 1% tax cap into the Indiana constitution that day -- an issue that has Gerig and auditors around the state concerned.
While voters may be inclined to vote in favor of the 1% cap, that's not the whole story.
"It's kind of a trick on words," said Whitley County councilman John Barrett as Gerig explained the issue to fellow council members Tuesday morning.
The trick, according to Gerig, is that voting for the measure makes it sound like taxes would stay set. Instead, that amount is likely to fluctuate and go up.
Gerig said the State Homestead Credit Hoosier taxpayers have become accustomed to will be going away and your tax rate will be based on the gross assessed valuation of your property.
"Your assessed valuation is going to go up," Gerig said.
"The state homestead credit will be completly phased out beginning with the 2010 pay 2011 property tax bill," Gerig said. "However, homestead owners will still received any available local homestead credits and be capped at 1 percent of the homestead's gross assessed value."
She said she believes many Hoosiers will be so confused by the question, they will vote in favor ot making it part of the constitution because it sounds like it will be keeping taxes lower -- when, in reality, it will not do that at all.
"The property tax caps are already law, but if put into the Constitution, it will takes years to change it back," Gerig added. "There is no need to put it in the Constitution. There will be unidentified consequences."
Etna United Methodist, Big Lake Church offering 'Trunk or Treating' on October 27
Get ready to "Trunk or Treat" in northern Whitley County on Wednesday, October 27, as two local churches plan safe Halloween events that evening.
First, plan to visit Etna United Methodist Church in the village of Etna from 4:45 to 6 p.m. for their annual Trunk or Treat.
Then, Big Lake Church of God will host Trunk of Treat activities from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the church parking lot near the corner of SR 109 and CR 700 North.
The churches are joining efforts to provide a safe, enjoyable trick or treating experience for local children and families.
Anyone wishing to participate is welcome to do so -- decorate your vehicle, have candy on hand and join in the festivities. The more, the merrier!
First, plan to visit Etna United Methodist Church in the village of Etna from 4:45 to 6 p.m. for their annual Trunk or Treat.
Then, Big Lake Church of God will host Trunk of Treat activities from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the church parking lot near the corner of SR 109 and CR 700 North.
The churches are joining efforts to provide a safe, enjoyable trick or treating experience for local children and families.
Anyone wishing to participate is welcome to do so -- decorate your vehicle, have candy on hand and join in the festivities. The more, the merrier!
Columbia City High School Class of '57 gathered for 53rd reunion
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Members of the Columbia City High School Class of '57 who gathered recently for their 53rd reunion were, from left in front, Janis Smith Kelly, Jo Ellen Adams McConnell, Jeanette Wince Brown, Pauline Juillerat Bruch, Tom Felger, Barbara Carver Frey, Barbara Snepp Klopenstein. Row two, from left, is Rosalie Farber Kleespie, Jay Smith, Russell Erne, Larry Hearld, Don Adams, Roger Anderson, Rex Carpenter, Terry Smith, Orville Grable, Marlin Worden, Martha Cooperrider Miller. Row three, from left, is Pat Gibson Conrad, Carol Schuman Krider, Sharon Bates Wolf, Myra Lorber Epstein, Mardell Feit Hall, Bob Hall, Jerald Putman, Gene Heckman, Ronnie Lovely, Randall Carpenter, Jim Kissinger, Bill Weigold, Jim Kyler, John Pence, Neil Cooper, Raymond Bechtel, Jeanette Snyder Rohrer, Carolyn Hilligoss Fisher, Maribelle Sheets Carter, Shirley Hosler Schlotterback, Margaret Moyer Lovely, Judy Reimer Thompson, Patty Windebrenner Goldsby and Mary Cooperrider Huffman.
Attending but not present for the picture were: Mary Ann Hauser Klein, Dave Wigent, Max Goldwood, Joy Murbach Heinbaugh, Kay Helfrich, Sandra Cooperrider Ritter, Darwin Zumbrun and Jon Pontzius. A total of 50 class members attended.
By Jo Ellen McConnell
A Hawaiian theme dominated the Saturday night festivities for Columbia City High School's Class of '57 as they observed their 53rd reunion on September 25.
The luau party featured tropical foods catered by Daniel Menu & Party Consulting, including pork loin with rum mango chutney, island chicken, scalloped pineapple, tropical fruit salad and a coconut cake for dessert.
Entertainment consisted of Rosalie Farber Kleespie performing lip sync to "She's Got You," and Tom Felger and Judy Reimer Thompson wearing grass skirts and dancing to "Tiny Bubbles."
Sixty-six class members and spouses attended Saturday night. Saturday afternoon events included Corn Hole competition. Winners were Ronnie Lovely and Larry Hearld, men's division, and Jeanette Anderson and Laurene Hearld, women's division.
Representing the Class of '57 in the Saturday CCHS Alumni Association golf outing were Neil Cooper, Rex and Randall Carpenter and Russell Erne. The foursome came in third with 17 teams competing.
The three-day celebration began Friday evening with a pizza party, and 46 class members and spouses attended. Sunday morning a brunch was served to 35 class members and their spouses. All the get-togethers were held at the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge. The committee consisted of Carol Schuman Krider, president; Barbara Snepp Klopfenstein, vice-president; Rosalie Farber Kleespie, secretary; and Janis Smith Kelly, treasurer. Jerald Putman was elected chairman for the 2012 reunion.
Sixty-six class members and spouses attended Saturday night. Saturday afternoon events included Corn Hole competition. Winners were Ronnie Lovely and Larry Hearld, men's division, and Jeanette Anderson and Laurene Hearld, women's division.
Representing the Class of '57 in the Saturday CCHS Alumni Association golf outing were Neil Cooper, Rex and Randall Carpenter and Russell Erne. The foursome came in third with 17 teams competing.
Downtown Columbia City Business Association discussing holiday celebration plans
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
The Columbia City Downtown Business Association met for their monthly meeting Wednesday, with discussion surrounding plans for the holidays in downtown Columbia City. Last year, the group began sponsoring Santa's House on the corner of Chauncey and Van Buren Streets and this year, they're hoping to add even more celebration in the downtown area with special events throughout the month of December. Attending the meeting, clockwise from lower right, were Sharon Richcreek of Gotcha Covered, Jay McIntosh of Embarq, Steve Moore of Shoes & Moore, Kay Hildman of Brew Ha coffee house, Robyn Tuttle of Robyn's Nest, Ryan Wilson of Davis & Associates, Jim Landrum of Star Financial Bank, Angela Butler of 14/69 Autobody at Trier Ford, Shawn Ellis of BABE, Tammie Nickolson of the Clugston and Whitley Crossings, Linda Reiling of The Watering Can, Sara Lochner-Goff of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce, Gregg Hockemeyer of Myers Tison Hockemeyer McNagny, Steve Richcreek of Gotcha Covered and Steve Hostetler of CC Deli.
The Columbia City Downtown Business Association is open to membership for any business operating within a radius of the downtown area in designated areas. Meetings are held the first Wednesday of the month at 8 a.m. at the CC Deli. Membership dues are $25 annually and members work together to promote business in the downtown area, provide advocacy and support join marketing ventures to add vitality to the historic downtown merchant community.
October 07, 2010
'Crazy Produce' contest added to 2010 Whitley County Harvest Moon Festival events lineup
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Do you have some interesting or what some might consider freakish homegrown produce? Maybe a potato that looks like George Washington? A heart-shaped tomato?
You'll have to consider entering those items in a new contest at the 2010 Whitley County Harvest Moon Festival for crazy produce.
A one-time entry fee of $5 will be charged and individuals may submit up to three entries.
A panel of judges will select a favorite or favorites and award prizes. Entries must arrive on Saturday, October 16, by 9 a.m. near the entrance to the west side of the Whitley County Courthouse.
All proceeds from this contest will support the Columbia City Farmers Market.
Do you have some interesting or what some might consider freakish homegrown produce? Maybe a potato that looks like George Washington? A heart-shaped tomato?
You'll have to consider entering those items in a new contest at the 2010 Whitley County Harvest Moon Festival for crazy produce.
A one-time entry fee of $5 will be charged and individuals may submit up to three entries.
A panel of judges will select a favorite or favorites and award prizes. Entries must arrive on Saturday, October 16, by 9 a.m. near the entrance to the west side of the Whitley County Courthouse.
All proceeds from this contest will support the Columbia City Farmers Market.
Columbia City High School Cheerleaders enjoy winning weekend at competition
(Talk of the Town photo provided)
The CCHS Varsity Cheerleaders competed on Sunday, Ocotber 3, 2010, at the Concordia Lutheran High School Invitational. The squad was awarded a 3rd place plaque for their accomplishment. Brooke Johnson and Kelly Hilleshiem placed 3rd and 4th respectively in the individual competition.
The stunt group comprising of Brooke Johnson, Molly Rhoades, Kelly Hilleshiem, Eden Aker and Megan Deutsch received a 2nd place trophy. While another CCHS stunt group, including Kennedy Slavicek, Bonnie Smith, Jocelyn Brosamer, Jade Shoppell and Shala Jarrell received the 3rd place trophy.
The CCHS Cheerleaders next competition will be on Saturday, October 16 at Bishop Dwenger High School.
Members of the CCHS Varsity Cheerleaders are seated above with their trophies.
Redevelopment Commission will discuss revolving loan program, facade grants on Tuesday
The Columbia City Redevelopment Commission will meet Tuesday, October 12, at noon in the City Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall.
Topics of discussion will include the newly created revolving loan program for businesses and a review of recent facade grant applications.
Interested business owners and members of the community are invited to attend.
Topics of discussion will include the newly created revolving loan program for businesses and a review of recent facade grant applications.
Interested business owners and members of the community are invited to attend.
Genealogical Society's October program features overview of Whitley County File Management Department
From reports
The Genealogical Society of Whitley County will meet Thursday, October 21 at 6:30 p.m., at the Whitley County Government Center, 220 W. Van Buren Street, in Columbia City.
Merri Frankel, file manager, will give an overview of the File Management Department.
The department is a repository of public county archives beginning with marriage records from 1836, estates and guardianships from 1838, probate proceedings, court records and other records applicable to genealogical research.
Please enter at the Jackson St. door on the parking lot side of the building.
There is no cost to attend and the public is always welcome to attend meetings of the Genealogical Society.
October 06, 2010
Many gathered to 'Meet the President'
Calling all dessert favorites for the 3rd annual Whitley County Harvest Moon Festival cook off
(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The festive and tasty dessert above, by Oliver Bernstein, was last year's Whitley County Harvest Moon dessert cook off grand prize winner. Who will win in 2010? Do you have the recipe to win over the judges?
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Do you have a unique take on apple pie? Maybe, when you think of fall, pumpkin is more your thing? Are friends smitten with your fall desserts?
Consider entering the Whitley County Harvest Moon Festival’s annual fall dessert cook off!
The third annual Whitley County Harvest Moon Festival dessert cook off contest will be held Saturday, October 16, beginning at 9:30 a.m. This year, the contest has been expanded to include any fall-themed dessert – that includes apple or pumpkin or anything that screams "fall!"
All participants must arrive at the dessert tasting tent on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn no later than 9:30 a.m. Saturday morning prepared to compete. Participants are asked to bring a $5 registration fee, a knife and a serving utensil and complete an official registration form.
A panel of community judges will evaluate the entries on overall taste, creativity and presentation. Judging will begin at 10 a.m. and winners will be announced at approximately 10:30 a.m. at the gazebo.
This year, participants need only bring one dessert.
Proceeds from the contest annually support local food pantries. This year, proceeds will be earmarked for Grace Lutheran Church's food pantry. Additionally, community members may provide donations the morning of the contest that will be given to the food pantry.
Coordinators of this year's Whitley County Harvest Moon Festival dessert cook off include Amanda Banks and Eddie Beagles.
To request a registration form in advance or for additional information, send an e-mail to: jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com