Talk of the Town - Whitley County

Posted by jennifer321 at 03:37 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 03:09 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 10:40 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Just one of many dangerous intersections in Whitley County, INDOT officials will soon take steps to make SR 205 at US 30 a little safer.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

In between launching several bills in the Senate and carrying on his official duties, District 17 State Senator Jim Banks took an opportunity to look into a seemingly smaller issue that has had many local residents concerned for years -- the safety of the intersection at US 30 and SR 205 in Columbia City.
"I have lived near this intersection most of my life and see semis or other vehicles ignore the stoplight almost daily," Banks said. "Upon taking office, I asked INDOT to study the possibility of using rumble strips to slow drivers down as they near the 205/30 intersection and am pleased they looked into it further."
At Banks' request, INDOT performed a traffic study of the intersection, reviewing crashes at the site within the past 59 months. In that time, the study found 46 accidents had occured, with one fatality and 14 serious injuries.
In all, 24 of the accidents were rear end collisions and 21 those accidents occurred on US 30.
According to INDOT reports, the majority of accidents in which a driver made a right angle, a motorist had run a red light. Crash reports revealed that many drivers indicated they were "trying to beat the light" or "they didn't know whether to stop or run it." In the case of the fatal accident, the driver did not even attempt to brake.
INDOT officials told Banks it would be worthwhile to study timing of the lights at the intersection to determine whether changes in timing might lessen the likelihood of accidents.
Officials also felt it would be important to study the intersection further once the new Parkview Whitley Hospital facility is open as traffic in that area is expected to increase.
"This intersection will only get busier with the new Parkview Whitley building nearing completion and my hope is that this simple task will improve safety and ultimately save lives at this intersection," Banks added.
INDOT will be installing a set of buzz strips in the westbound lane of US 30 just east of signal flashers to further alert motorists to the approaching stoplight. Due to weather limitations, the work will be completed sometime later this spring when temperatures rise and the material used to create the buzz strips will adhere properly.

Posted by jennifer321 at 10:30 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 10:28 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 10:19 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
The Columbia City Rotary Club recently inducted Bryan Graham as a new member. Above, from left, is club membership chairman Dick Haworth, Bryan Graham and Tina Houser. Houser invited Graham to become a member of the Columbia City Rotary Club.

Posted by jennifer321 at 09:19 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 09:13 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Adult Programs at the Peabody Public Library

March Events for Young Adults

Children’s Events at the Peabody Public Library

Posted by jennifer321 at 09:07 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Volunteers were elbow to elbow this morning breading fish and tenderloin for the annual Faith Christian Academy Fish & Tenderloin Fry this evening, above. The all you can eat dinner fundraiser prepared by Gaerte's will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Whitley County 4-H Center Building in Columbia City. At the door, tickets are $8.50 for adults, $4 for children 4-12 and free for children ages 3 and under. All proceeds support the school, Whitley County's only non-denominational Christian school for children in preschool through grade 8.

Posted by jennifer321 at 03:47 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 03:11 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

2011 Rotary Auction Item List

1.       Dick Haworth’s Famous Peanut Brittle-It wouldn’t be a Rotary Auction with out this item.  There will be 5 pounds auctioned off

2.      Plane ride for 2 with Cort Chilean and Kathleen Anderson to Indianapolis for meal at Rick’s Café in Indianapolis and back or two hours of flight time.

3.      Just in time for grilling season, six select steaks donated by Kriders.

4.      This is a return item from prior years, a decorative wooden sleigh hand crafted by Mr. Tom Drew himself. .

5.      Dinner for Six at the Rush home always a good time and can expect an extravagant meal now that the honorable judge is retired and has additional time to hone his cooking skills.

6.      2 Tickets to see country star and former lead singer of Hootie and The Blowfish. Darius Rucker and dinner for two at Market Street Grill which is nearby The Honeywell Center

7.      Handmade wicker basket approximately 24” x 15” by Cheryl Tucker

8.      Annual family membership to the Whitley County YMCA

9.       A piece of handmade pottery donated by Mrs. Marcia Stauffer of the CCHS staff. 

10.  1 Pizza Hut Pizza/month for a year, there are two of these that will be auctioned off.

11.  Been wanting to update your furniture, here’s your chance to donate to a good cause and  also update your furniture with a  $500 gift certificate from Ball Furniture can be used for anything in the store.

12.  Mayor for a day. Three hour lunch with Mayor Fleck. . Mayor suggests that it is best purchased for a child or grand Child. 

13.  Beautiful piece of Alewine Pottery from Smoky Mountains-Donated by Ron Longenbaugh.

14.  Signed photograph of the one and only Earvin “Magic” Johnson.  Donated by Kathy Sauers

15.  Beautiful hand crafted wooden children’s rocking chair.  ( Donated by Gregg Goewert)

16.  Dessert for a year from Better Than Grandma’s Bakery-One Dessert per month for a year (her choice).  One month will be cookies, next month pie, etc. 

17.  Overnight stay at the Essenhaus Inn plus additional gift certificate to be used at the Essenhaus restaurant or shops.  Donated by the Romine Group

18.  Handmade children’s wooden bench complete with cushion. (Donated by Gregg Goewert) 

19.  18 Holes of Golf for 4 with cart at Crooked Lake 

20.  18 Holes of Golf for 4 with cart at Eagle Glen

21.  Royal Parade package.  This package includes a barricaded front row seats of 8 at the Old Settlers Day parade.  BBQ Chicken(Pasture chicken from Avis Acres) + ribs with all the fixens as well as the winner’s beverage of choice.  Donated by LT Foundations Real Estate

22.  18 Holes of Golf for 4 with cart at Eel River.

23.  Golf for 3 with Robin Wright at Sycamore Hills Golf Course

24.  For the wood worker. Mortising Set: cuts square holes for mortise & tenon joints. Includes 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 inch bits. Current Delta model No. 17-924. The set is in the original package, never been used.

25. A week’s stay in the big easy.  This resort is located in the Heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans. It includes a two bedroom lock out unit which can be used as a single two bedroom unit or two one bedroom units. Each has their own bathroom and kitchen area. Guaranteed to be available the week of February 25, 2012. Other dates in 2012 (excluding Mardi Gras) can check for availability with minimum of 60 days notice. Link to condo in New Orleans: http://www.quarterhouse.com/index.php.

26.  Foursome of Golf at Churubusco Rotary Golf Outing at Eel River Golf Course, Meal provided 

27.  Beautiful handmade small oak wooden trunk with tray can be used for decorative purposes or storage.  Donated by Paula Reimers

28.   Exclusive opportunity! VIP Dinner for 6  in the grand lobby of the new Parkview Whitley Hospital before the  Grand Opening                                           

29.  Prepare for the upcoming days on the links or tennis court, with a one hour Tune Up with Gail Altekruse, PT Parkview Whitley Rehab Manager.  Let Gail help you with that persistent ache or pain after playing by screening for flexibility, posture and body mechanics.  Learn correct stretching techniques, and principles of core stability to make the most of your pre-season training.  Not guaranteed to improve your slice or serve.

30.  1 Large pizza per month for a year from Mama Luginni’s.

31.  Star Financial Bank is offering someone the chance of a lifetime.  You and three friends will have a front row couch to watch the annual Old Settlers Day Parade.  You will be provided plenty of snacks as well as water and soda.  You might ask yourself; how can it get any better than this?  It can and it does, there will be a reserved VIP parking pass for your vehicle in Star’s parking lot directly behind you.  YES RESERVED PARKING.  This item is priceless.

32.  For those golf afficianados that can’t putt, here’s your opportunity to get a new putter.  Up for auction is a Calloway Oddysey golf putter, box of Titlist Pro-V1 balls Trans America golf towel.  Donate by Ryan Wilson

33.  For Rotary members-The coveted First in line for weekly meal and exempt from fines at weekly Rotary meetings.

34.  2 Tickets to see the AFC South Champion Indianapolis Colts in 2011.  Seats are in the 15^th row near the 40 yard line.  Date to be mutually agreed upon by buyer and seller. Donated by Tom O’Neill of Passages

35.  2 Notre Dame vs MSU Football Tickets Sept 17.  Donated by Becky Curless of State Farm Insurance.

36.  Yard a little worn from all the winter weather?  Here is your opportunity to improve it this spring by buying 500sq ft sod.  Donated by Linvill Sod Farm

37.  Large Miller High Life Sign great for den or game room. Donated by Five Star Distributing

38.  Your look will bloom with the addition of this Simply Vera Wang sterling silver crystal floral ring.  Floral design adds chic appeal, purple and white crystals sparkle with beauty and sterling silver construction promotes lasting shine.  Size 8 ring 1” width.  Donated by Paula Reimers

39.  A week in sunny Naples, Florida in a fully furnished condo in Pelican Bay with high speed internet access. Dates and times to be coordinated with Don & Rosie Armstrong who have donated this week’s use of their condo.

40.  1 Quart of Homemade Maple Syrup made at Yoder Sugar Camp.  Donated by Francis Bundy. We will be auctioning of 2 quarts 1^st highest and 2^nd highest bidders will win a quart.

41.  Movie showing for 16-Enjoy a private movie showing of a cinema movie for 16 at the home of Mike and Linda Grant.  You will arrange the night, choose from 1 of 150 movie choices and enjoy the provided refreshments.

42.  Large jar of Jack Myers famous Dill Pickles

43.  See the future superstars of the NBA in a Suite at the Mad Ants NBA Developmental League game on March 27^h.  Includes 16 tickets and three parking passes.  Food/drinks not included.    Donated by Hagerman Construction

44.  Hand made wooden watch clock. Looks like scaled up wrist watch. Donated by Doug Brown.

45.   Kelly Bergman.- Hunting Trip at the Anthony Wayne Reservation in Ashley, IN.  3 Day, 4 Person hunting trip during the 2011 fall hunting season of your choice.  Accommodations in one of 3 facilities as available.  Access to entire hunting area on 1200 acres of the Anthony Wayne Reservation.  Participants must bring all of their own equipment and food.  Your choice of bow or firearm.  Minimum bid $300. Must make arrangements in advance for choice of facilities and date .        

46.  Take your sweetheart to the beautiful Southern Indiana with this weekend away package to the Clifty Inn @ Clifty Falls State Park.  The inn offers some of the most up to date, state of the art lodging that you will find anywhere in the Mid-West.  Internet access and fantastic views.  The park’s waterfalls change moods with the weather and the seasons can range from roaring plunges to delicate bridal-veil mists to gleaming frozen titans.  Year-round hiking and scenery. Donated by John Meier

47.  For those guys with a “man cave” here is a perfect addition to the wall, garage, barn, etc.   A neon lighted Miller Light beer sign.  Donated by Five Star Distributing

48.  Wine for a year-Jane Langeloh, local owner of the Dock and a true wine expert will choose a bottle of wine for you each month of the year. 

49.  Great American Picnic for 12.  This is a day with the great Al Anderson, fun, frivolity, food, beverages and boating.  Al says can be family friendly or adults only. 

50.  Columbia City High School themed screen printing package.  Package includes mouse pad, bucket hat, women’s shirt, fleece, sweater and much more.  This is a must for any CCHS parent, grandparent or fan.  Donated by Running Around Screenprinting.

51.  (4) 50 Yard Line tickets at Michigan State Vs IU on November 19th Donated by Don Langeloh

52.  University of St Francis Super Season Package-This certificate entitles you to: 4 .General Admission Season Tickets to the 2011USF Football Season and 4 General Admission Season Tickets to all 2011-2012 Home Men’s Basketball games, and 4 General Admission Season Tickets to all 2011-2012 Home Women’s Basketball games (Donated by Kristi Maloney) Two packages will be auctioned off.

53.  2 Tickets to see Keith Urban with special guest Jake Owen at Memorial Coliseum on July 31^st.  CenturyLink Club Seats are located in section 409.  Winning bidder to contact Jack Moore and he will make arrangements to deliver tickets once released.

54.    A wine and cheese basket prepared by Stan & Doris Horne 

55.  3 Bottle fine wine basket Donated by Bob Grawcock.

56.  Handmade wooden toys Donated by Gregg Goewert

57.  16x20 Framed print of Whitley County Landmark-The Murphy Sweet Corn Stand donated by Chad Moore Photography.

58.  Afternoon cruise on Lake Wawasee with Captain Mike Craig and 1^st mate June Keiser.  Enjoy a fun day on the lake and then an evening meal for a couple.  (Saturday or Sunday only)

59.  2 Car Washes / month for a year.  There are 2 of these to auction off. Top two bidders will win these.  (Donated by Andy’s Car Wash)

60.  One of  Harold Myers’ Gooney Birds. 

61.  Hand Crafted Cedar Birdhouse.  The dimensions are 16"x20"x20".  It sits on a 6ft. pole.  Everything is pre-treated so there is no need to stain or paint.  Includes a bag of bird feed.  It was hand-crafted by Brad Farnsworth of Monroeville, IN.

62.  It might look like a painting, but this photograph taken on the water near Heller’s point on Loon Lake in Northern Whitley County employs a photographic technique that captures more than the eye can see.  Limited edition photography by Jennifer Zartman Romano.

Posted by jennifer321 at 06:59 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 05:46 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The Whitley County Family YMCA kicked off their Strong Kids Campaign 2011 this week, an initiative that raises funds to provide scholarships so that children of any income are able to enjoy the activities of the local Y, including soccer, above.

Article provided

The YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne kicked off its Strong Kids Campaign 2011 on Feb. 22, and will be in full force through the end of March.
Committed to strengthening the foundation of the community one child at a time, the campaign will provide scholarships for programs and memberships to children and families in need.
No one will be turned away due to the inability to pay.  
“This program is a hand up to kids and families, not a handout,” said Erica Miller, Whitley County YMCA executive director. “Your contribution matters.”
Following are statistics courtesy of the Strong Kids Campaign:
• 1 in 5 program participants have received financial assistance.
• $3 are returned to our community for every dollar donated.
• 1 in 4 in the Y’s childcare program benefit from this financial assistance.
• Ninety-nine percent of at-risk youths in the Youth Service Bureau of Whitley County avoid the juvenile justice system.
• 1 in 10 kids attending summer day-camp utilize the scholarship and are able to build new friendships.
YMCA board members and campaigners are actively seeking donations in Whitley County. To make a donation, call the Whitley County Family YMCA at  244-9622.

Posted by jennifer321 at 02:37 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 02:09 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 04:34 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Whitley County Business & Networking

Whitley County Chamber of Commerce State of the City/County Luncheon

Columbia City Rotary Auction

Posted by jennifer321 at 04:21 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 04:02 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 03:54 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 03:45 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 03:38 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Otto Boschet Jr. has become a frequent attendee at local meetings as he's begun a project to record and publish videos of local governmental meetings. Below, Boschet adjusts his camera to record a January 2011 Whitley County Commissioners' meeting.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

With many Whitley County residents experiencing an renewed or growing interest in the affairs of local government, there seems to be no time better than the present to make observing the workings of government more simple.
Whitley County resident and 1997 CCHS graduate Otto Boschet Jr. has spent the better part of the past several years excelling in the area of video production and working with cable access television in Fort Wayne. Now, he's bringing this interest home to Whitley County as well with an internet site featuring recordings of recent governmental meetings including Whitley County Commissioners, Whitley County Council, Whitley County Plan Commission and Columbia City Common Council.
A long-time supporter of plans to create cable access television in Whitley County, Boschet has come up with a unique idea that works just about the same, but relies on volunteer support and utilizes his own equipment. Indeed, there's no financial or governmental support for what he's doing -- but there is definite community interest in the website Boschet created.
Boschet launched the site, www.whitleytv.info, on New Year's Day and has several videos from recent public meetings loaded already.
"I figured it was a stepping stone to getting the local community involved in public access," Boschet said. "The biggest advantage of public access is being able to get information out to the community with the smallest amount of effort on the community's part to get that information."
Attending so many meetings and recording them will be a challenge, but it is a process that will be made easier by several residents, including fellow Whitley County resident and videographer Nick Henney. Like Boschet, Henney has wanted to see public access television or a public access internet site come to fruition in Whitley County for many years.
Boschet has been involved in communication for many years, with 11 years spent in public access specifically. "I caught the bug with high school radio broadcasting and then I got involved with IPFW's college access channel where I learned the basics of broadcasting," said Boschet. "An opportunity opened up in 2002 to work with the Allen County Public Library in public access." Now, he creates television programming for Comcast channels 57 and 55 as well as Government Access channel 58.
"As a member of the non-profit Alliance for Community Media, it is important to educate and provide ways for free speech through electronic media," added Boschet. He said public access locally might not only include governmental meetings, but school events, sporting events and anything the public deems interesting.
Boschet began recording local governmental meetings in November 2010 and said he's found local leaders to be very supportive of what he's trying to do.
In addition to shining a light on the proceedings of local government, recorded meetings also enable the public to view the proceedings at their convenience online, 24 hours a day.
Boschet is still hoping someday his recordings of local government meetings could be viewed online through cable television, but he knows that may be far off in the future.
"Whitley County has not reserved a cable channel," Boschet said. Franchise fees from local cable television providers are paid to the city and to the county. Those funds, however, are being absorbed in the general fund. Currently, Boschet is working with the Whitley County Auditor's office to see if potentially more fees are due to be paid to the county. "Then, I'd like to see if the county would contribute that extra 2% toward cable access," he said. "They would not have to give up the 3% they're already getting, but they could contribute the additional 2% they may be due."
Boschet said that Fort Wayne audits their cable access franchise fees every five years and recently discovered an additional $80,000 in franchise fees they should have been receiving.
"I'm now doing exactly what I wanted to do," Boschet said of his work, but added that he'd like to be able to bring public access television to Whitley County eventually. In the meantime, he's happy to record local governmental meetings and begin offering them to the public via his website.
Talk of the Town is pleased to participate in Boschet's project and we will be providing video for publication on the site from time to time. We will also be directing you to public meeting videos posted on the site as a means of informing residents in a way that does not interject opinion -- but that allows room for awareness,
observance and public involvement.
If you'd be interested in volunteering to record public meetings, send an email to jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com  A meeting of all potential volunteers for the project will be arranged in the near future. To participate in the recording of public meetings, you will need to have your own digital video camera and be able to upload the files to the internet. A Flip camera would be ideal for this.

Posted by jennifer321 at 03:14 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Downtown Columbia City business owner Pat Ball, above, shovels snow along the sidewalk in front of his business Tuesday morning -- a familiar, all-too-frequent activity this winter in Whitley County. Many have said this latest storm seemed unfair after last week's beautiful breath of spring... but could we be in for another big storm by this weekend? The word on the street is that we may very well be! Weather forecasts indicate we may have ice and snow beginning tomorrow and lasting through the weekend.

Posted by jennifer321 at 03:02 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The farmers market, above, is a popular place on Saturday's in Whitley County. This year, the newly-renamed Whitley County Farmers Market may not only offer fresh produce and more on Saturday mornings in Columbia City -- but on Friday nights in South Whitley as well.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

The name will be changing, but the assortment of great, locally grown produce available at your local farmer's market will not.
Formerly known as the Columbia City Farmers Market, the name has changed to the Whitley County Farmers Market -- a move that identifies the considerable growth and expansion of the organization in the past several years.
"The decision was really made at our December meeting," Lilly said. "We really are no longer just Columbia City-oriented... we're countywide."
"I would say, too, that the largest contributing factor has been our relationship with the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce," Lilly added. That organization, too, became countywide in 2010, embracing a broader focus of commerce in the community. The Whitley County Farmers Market falls under the guidance of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce, a relationship that has grown considerably since last summer.
"The idea is to purvey to the community that we're not just Columbia City farmers and growers, but Whitley County's growers and farmers," added Lilly.
Last summer, under the leadership of Market Master Chris Lilly, the market expanded down Chauncey Street, around the corner onto Market Street, filling all available booth space. Next spring, Lilly expects to need to further expand the market space.
Additionally, Lilly recently announced talks with South Whitley business owners about the possibility of launching a Whitley County Farmers Market in South Whitley on Friday evenings this summer.
The next Whitley County Farmers Market meeting is March 1, 2011, at 7 p.m. at the Smith & Sons Coach House on North Main Street. The meeting is open to anyone interested in participating as a vendor in the 2011 Whitley County Farmers Market.

Posted by jennifer321 at 02:58 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 02:57 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Whitley County Business & Networking will meet this Friday, February 25 at 8:30 a.m. at the Brew Ha coffee shop in Columbia City. Any person representing business or non-profit interests in Whitley County is welcome to attend -- simply bring some business cards and be ready to share.
Above, WCBN members last met February 10 for a program with CANI, an organization that serves a variety of human needs in Whitley County -- from preschool to winterization of homes to care of seniors in the community. The event provided an excellent opportunity for several local non-profit entities to not only learn what CANI does, but to begin to find ways to work together and to refer serves between organizations.

To join the mailing or participate in networking conversations, visit "Whitley County Business & Networking" on Facebook.

Posted by jennifer321 at 02:47 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Attendees at the Whitley County EDC's first-ever Outlook meeting talk following breakfast Tuesday morning in the Robert Brittain Auditorium at Peabody Public Library.

By Kelley Lefever

Nearly 60 people from Whitley County and Northeast Indiana gathered for the first-ever Whitley County EDC Outlook meeting. The breakfast meeting was held at the Peabody Public Library in Columbia City Tuesday February 22, 2011.
“Our 2011 Outlook breakfast showcased the important work the EDC is doing to encourage business growth in Whitley County and how that work connects with regional initiatives,” said EDC president Alan Tio. “We look forward to returning again next year to update our progress attracting new businesses to Whitley County, supporting the growth of existing industries and working with entrepreneurs in our community.”
John Stafford, director of the Community Research Institute at IPFW, was the keynote speaker for the event. In his presentation, Stafford addressed current and past economic conditions in the Whitley County and the surrounding Northeast Indiana region.  The Community Research Institute at IPFW provides information and analysis on economic, demographic, public finance and socio-economic issues for public, not-for-profit and private organizations in Northeast Indiana.  Stafford also teaches classes in urban policy and public finance in the Division of Public and Environmental Affairs at IPFW.
“Whitley County, from several perspectives, is well positioned for job and investment growth as we gradually recover from the recent recession," said Stafford.  “It has the geographically advantage of being along the U.S. 30 corridor – a focal point of economic activity in northern Indiana; it has a demonstrated ability over the long-term to successfully implement major economic development initiatives; the EDC has a proven track record in working with prospects, and it understands the importance of creating an entrepreneurial support system.”
Brad Bishop, executive director of the Warsaw-based Orthoworx initiative, provided an overview of the orthopedics industry industry, community and education initiative, and John Sampson, president & CEO of the Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership, provided an overview of the Vision 20/20 regional planning initiative, which brings together  locally-based initiatives such as the Whitley Forward initiative sponsored by the Whitley County Community Foundation.

Posted by jennifer321 at 02:42 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 02:41 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photos provided)
On Saturday, February 19, DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral home opened their doors to grieving children for a special Valentine's Day party to remember loved ones. Each child used foam letters and stickers to decorate a heart with the loved ones name they were here to remember. Later, they had their photo taken in the valentine circle “Memories are Forever.”  "We played bingo and everyone got a prize, and then we made up our own progressive Valentine Story," said Sharon Brockhaus of DeMoney-Grimes. "They each made a butterfly and decorated it, then had some refreshments, and each took a box of Valentine Candy and treat bag home with them." In all, 19 children attended the event along with family members or friends.
Above, children at the grief workshop event gather for a group photo to remember their loved ones.
At left, far left, Abby Ruch attended the event to remember her grandfather, Steve M. Byers. At right, Chase Brown was there to remember his father, Robert M. Brown.

Posted by jennifer321 at 01:59 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 01:50 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 01:41 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 12:40 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 06:28 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 05:23 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

A local resident is looking forward to the political fervor in the next few months...and hoping for a real debate on this issues after the May primary -- today on Community Voices. Click here.

Posted by jennifer321 at 05:00 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo by Teresa Smith of the Tribune-News) State Senator Jim Banks, below, talks with constituents about legislative issues as they effect Whitley County residents during a GOP breakfast held Saturday in Columbia City.

By Teresa Smith of the Tribune-News

State senator Jim Banks (R-Columbia City) and representatives Kathy Heuer (R-Columbia City) and Dan Leonard (R-Huntington) faced a hard class of teachers Saturday morning when the lawmakers spoke at the Whitley County GOP breakfast in the CC Deli.
The political party’s monthly meeting is designed to update the party faithful on pending and passed legislation, introduce candidates and discuss policies.
While Banks, Heuer and Leonard briefly outlined the last couple of months’ activity at the Statehouse, the more than 50 teachers who attended the meeting had their minds on one subject: the future of Indiana education and their jobs.
Because school funding has switched from property taxed-support to the general fund all school corporation have seen drastic cuts, “more than $1 billion,” according to Leonard.
Pending legislation about the structure of charter schools also have the members of the Teachers Association up in arms.
“It hurts my heart when our governor says we’re in it for the money,” said Northern Heights kindergarten teacher Cheryl Stalter. “I know that God gave me the talent to teach and I want you to know we do it because we love these children or we wouldn’t walk into that school every day.”
Banks said the current session ends April 30. “We must pass our two-year state budget and look at redistricting. The Senate has sent 60 to 70 bills to the House and many are education related issues. Next week is the deadline for legislation to move to the other Chamber.”
State Bill 32 regarding vote centers has been approved by the Senate and the House. It establishes the use of vote centers as a option for all counties, allowing voters the ability to vote at any voting location in the county as opposed to a specific precinct.
Heuer said laws regarding charter schools have been drafted in response to parents who say they don’t have faith in the public school system. The parents want an alternative.
House Bill 1002 establishes the charter school board as a statewide sponsor of charger schools sponsors with members appointed by the governor, state superintendent and General Assembly.
The bill certifies that no less than 60 percent of state revenues received by the charter go toward student instruction. It requires a charter to be open to everyone and, among other things, allows a public school to convert to a public charter.
House Bill 1008; Venture Capital Investment Tax Credit increases the amount of tax credits available for investment in a qualified Indiana business from $500.000 to $1 million. It suspends for two years the $200 application fee a business must pay to become a qualified Indiana business.
Heuer said she voted for the charter school legislation because it gives parents more choices. She talked to school superintendents who said it wouldn’t affect local education.
“We were responding to the parents who have said over and over and over again, ‘please give us an alternative.’ The legislature is there to help, not hurt,” she said to derisive laughter.
Signs read “New state motto: ‘DRAWROF’” and “If you can read this, thank a teacher.”
One Whitley County teacher reminded the lawmakers that teachers have recently agreed to freeze their salaries, dropped two paid days and watched their insurance benefits change significantly.
“How many of you have spent 20 minutes with a group of children?” one citizen challenged.
The teachers postulated that public school was the only option and that charter schools would not require all teachers to be certified.
Leonard pointed out that 47 percent of the general fund goes to kindergarten through high school-level education.
“There are a multitude of controversial issues being presented,” he said. “We listen to hours and hours of presentations and read, read, read. I try to represent the people of this district."
The governor’s flat-line budget, Leonard said, shows a lot of trimming from two years ago. Gone is the $27 million subsidy to horse racing tracks.
He said Gary Community School students receive $12,000 per student compared to $5,800 for students who attend Whitko schools.
“We’re trying to level it out,” he said. “Of the 300 school corporation in the state, 200 schools will receive an increase in revenue or an increase in dollars per student; 100 school systems will loose money."
“We want to fund schools as much as possible," Leonard added. "We spend more per square foot on school buildings than any other  state in the nation and we’re $1 billion short of education funding than we were two years ago.”
Heuer said she would be happy to meet with teachers as early as next Saturday to discuss education issues.

Posted by jennifer321 at 04:49 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 04:19 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photos by Teresa Smith of the Tribune-News) Saturday morning's GOP breakfast turned into a rally for education in Whitley County, an opportunity for local teachers to ask legislators tough questions about education, above. Below, State Representative Dan Leonard answers a question.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

A large constituency of Whitley County's teachers attended the Whitley County GOP breakfast this morning in hopes of talking with elected officials about sweeping changes to Indiana's educational landscape.
An estimated 150 people were in attendance for the breakfast event held at the CC Deli. The intended focus of the meeting: an opportunity for State Representatives Dan Leonard and Kathy Heuer and Senator Jim Banks to talk with constituents about current issues in state government. Instead, the meeting took a different turn when most of those in attendance wanted to speak frankly about education.
"The main focus of the questions were about education," said a local teacher who wanted to remain unidentified. Several Whitley County area teachers spoke with us about their perceptions of the meeting, but wanted to remain anonymous.
"I know that the usual community members who attend these breakfasts were just wide-eyed that this was actually going on," a teacher said. More than half of the individuals in attendance were not necessarily the GOP members who attend the breakfast meetings, but, instead teachers and administrators from Whitley County's three school corporations and from schools in neighboring counties. "I saw people from Northside High School, Fort Wayne Community Schools, Huntington... and from all across Whitley County," the teacher added. "There were a lot more people there than I expected."
At a morning meeting where there are usually ample seats for everyone, it quickly became standing room only. Many came carrying posters or signs and ready to ask tough questions about how those representing local constituents at the state level felt about the educational reforms now under consideration.
"It turned more into a teacher's rally than a question and answer session only because some of the legislators didn't answer the questions or have answers to the questions," added the teacher. "I had not been to something like that before and it was interesting."
"I would say that for all of us involved it was eye-opening," the teacher said of the meeting and the many questions asked of Whitley County's legislators.
"The meeting wasn't an attack or didn't really carry any kind of angry tone -- it was a passionate tone, that's for sure," the teacher said. Teachers wanted to understand the legislators' perspectives and many wanted to share their fears and concerns about what is happening at the state level regarding education reform.
The meeting was interesting, according to several in attendance, because it seemed to show how those representing Whitley County at the state level perceived the concerns of local educators. "I think (Dan) Leonard seemed defiant and under attack, but (Kathy) Heuer seemed understanding and contemplative of what the teachers had to say," a teacher said. "(Jim) Banks seemed reflective. I feel like Leonard wanted to change the focus of discussion from education to virtually anything else."
The level of concern and emotion in the room was undeniable.
"There were a few strong comments about what (Governor Mitch) Daniels and (Dr. Tony) Bennett have been saying about public school teachers," a teacher said. "Emotions did run high about that and some important questions were raised."
"Plenty of teachers wanted their voices heard. I feel like the legislators have now heard their voices...now what they do with that remains to be seen," one teacher concluded. "I think the teachers went to be heard and that was accomplished. I felt like it was productive."

Posted by jennifer321 at 03:58 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo provided)
The Columbia City Lady Eagle 6th grade team won the Lady Wildcat 6th Girl’s Tournament this past Saturday at Whitko.  The Lady Eagles faced the West Noble Chargers in their first game with a commanding win of 50-9.  Their second game was a tougher match facing the Lady Tigers from Warsaw.  The championship game went into overtime with the Lady Eagles coming out victorious with a 28-24 win.
Shown above, from left, with their championship tourney are:  in front, Elise Cormany, Darian Farber, Mason VanHouten, Brittney Kinney, Miranda McConnell and Justine Whitehead. Row two, from left, includes Coach Jim Farber, Yasmine Owen, Chelsea Pettigrew, Crystal VanHouten, Holly Martinez, Madison Hansen, Coach Emily Bales, Morgan Bales and Coach Brook Farber.

Posted by jennifer321 at 02:30 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 02:26 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

From reports

Due to the ice storm and weather conditions, the Whitley County Farmers Market meeting that was originally scheduled for this evening has been rescheduled. The Whitley County Farmers Market will hold a public meeting for any interested vendors on March 1, 2011, at 7 p.m. at the Smith & Sons Coach House in Columbia City.

If you have an event that will be canceled this evening and you'd like it posted on Talk of the Town, send a message to: jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com

Posted by jennifer321 at 12:51 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 12:48 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo provided) Team members for ISMS wrestling include, in no particular order above, Wesley Goodman, Christopher Brook, Hunter Langeloh, Logan Wait, Travis Akin, Nick Perkins, Landon Yount, Nathan Smith, Brody Hurst, Dillion Clingerman, Christian Baker, Daniel Davison, Tyler Hare, Cross Dietrich, Mason Arick, Noah Ray, Chase Zurbrick, Adam Dziabis, Devin Hambleton, Chris Machlan, Joseph Lude, Drake Dewitt, Brandon Johnson, Kyle Egolf, Jacob Morse, Davin Lawrence, Austin Gowen, Trefor Gatchel, Jacob Whitehead, Kyle Burns, Jacob Elkins, Cody McClure, Quinten Scroggs, Jordan Barron, Josh Whitehead, Riley Harter, Logan Geiger, Tristan Anglin, Dakota Schilling, Gavin LaRue, Kohltin Hoeppner and Jaegar Kreps. The team is shown above with their coaches and the invitational trophy.

Article provided

Indians Springs Middle School hosted a wrestling invitational Saturday, February 11, 2011.
Teams competing in the tournament included ISMS, Garrett, Lakeland, East Noble, Adams Central and Lincoln.
The champion was determined first by the best overall record and in case of a tie, total points for the day would be used to declare a winner. At the end of the day, ISMS was one of three teams that ended the day with 4 wins and 1 loss. The other two schools were Lincoln and East Noble. The champion was then determined by total team points. ISMS was the winner with Lincoln following in second and East Noble third.
Wrestlers posting wins for day were Wesley Goodman, Hunter Langeloh, Nathan Smith, Noah Ray, Adam Dziabis, Devin Hambleton, Drake Dewitt, Jacob Morse, Davin Lawrence, Cody McClure, Kyle Burns, Jordan Barron, Josh Whitehead, Logan Geiger, Tristan Anglin, Dakota Schilling, Kohltin Hoeppner, Jaegar Kreps, Dillion Clingerman, Landon Yount, Riley Harter and Logan Wait.
ISMS improves it record to 6 wins and 2 losses.

Posted by jennifer321 at 07:49 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 07:48 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 07:38 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 10:58 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 10:54 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 10:50 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

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

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

In hopes of bringing local constituents closer to the issues and legislators making decisions, two legislative updates are planned for Whitley County residents in the coming weeks.
First, the Whitley County GOP will host their monthly breakfast at the CC Deli at 8:30 a.m. this Saturday, February 19, 2011. Senator Jim Banks, State Representative Dan Leonard and State Representative Kathy Heuer will be present to update residents about what is happening at the state level and, potentially, answer public questions. Admission is $5 per person. Seating space will be limited and attendees are urged to arrive early for seats.
If you miss that event, the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce will be presenting a Legislative Update on Saturday, March 26, beginning at 9 a.m. in the Robert Brittain Auditorium at the Peabody Public Library. Heuer, Leonard and Banks have all confirmed their attendance at that event and will be available to provide an overview of their experiences this term as well as answer public questions. Additional details will be forthcoming about this event, which is open to both Chamber and non-Chamber members.

Posted by jennifer321 at 04:40 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 03:21 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 11:30 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 03:53 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo provided)
Bob Hoffman, winner of the Fire & Ice Chili Cookoff, presented his winnings to the Whitley County Human Society Tuesday afternoon. Above, Whitley County Chamber of Commerce president Sara Lochner-Goff joined Bob Hoffman, center, and his wife, Linda, at right, as they made their donation. Bob and Linda Hoffman matched their $250 prize winnings from the Chamber to make a total gift of $500 to help their furry friends at the Whitley County Humane Society. Chance, the beautiful dalmation shown above, is available for adoption!

Posted by jennifer321 at 12:22 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 12:10 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 12:08 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, residents attend an open house this afternoon to hear more about the latest draft of Whitley County's comprehensive land use and development plan. Below, Brad Johnson of Ground Rules Inc., the consulting firm that is aiding the county in the completion of a land use and development plan, asks residents in attendance at the open house this afternoon for their opinions on the crafting of the plan.

Article provided

Whitley County has been developing a new comprehensive plan for land use and development over the last year.  
The County and its planning consultant, Ground Rules, Inc. are hosting an open house on this afternoon and evening, Wednesday, February 16, 2011 until 6:30 p.m. in Meeting Room A/B on the lower level of the Whitley County Government Center at 220 W. Van Buren Street, Columbia City.  
The purpose of the open house is to seek comments, questions, and additional input from the Whitley County community about Draft C – Public Review Draft before the official adoption process begins.
The Whitley County Plan Commission meets immediately following the open house at 7 p.m. in the same location and the plan is likely to be discussed briefly there as well.
If you are unable to attend the open house or plan commission meeting, but would like to review Draft C of the document, it is now available online and in print version at the Whitley County Joint Planning and Building Department.
To obtain a printed version of Draft C, stop by the Whitley County Joint Planning and Building Department at 220 West Van Buren Street, Suite 204, Columbia City on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. and pick up a copy.
To view or print an online copy, go to www.whitleygov.com and select “Departments” and the “Planning & Building." The document is on the Planning and Building Department homepage. Or, click here.

Posted by jennifer321 at 04:59 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 04:30 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

From reports

All college bound seniors who plan on attending college and hope to receive State and/or Federal aid must file a FAFSA (Free application for Federal student aid) by March 10, 2011.  
The Whitko Guidance Department will be hosting a financial aid night at tonight, February 16, 2011, at 6 p.m. in the lecture room. This is the same evening as parent-teacher conferences.  A financial aid representative from Grace College will be here to answer your questions about the FAFSA.
To file the FAFSA application online, visit www.fafsa.ed.gov.  Sign up for a PIN number in order to complete the online FAFSA at www.pin.ed.gov/PINWebApp/pinindex.isp.  For a hard copy, call 800-433-3243. Practice worksheets are also available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov
Four weeks after filing the FAFSA, you should receive yur Student Aid Report.  If you do not, call 800-4FEDAID.

Posted by jennifer321 at 04:30 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

By Erin Reece

A proposal crafted by State Senator Jim Banks of Columbia City to amend Indiana’s Constitution aims to permanently safeguard worker’s rights to use secret ballots on union authorization votes.
Members of the Senate Committee on Pension and Labor voted 7-2 in favor of Banks’ Senate Joint Resolution 10, sending the measure to the full Senate for further consideration.
Currently, workers have a chance to vote for or against unionization in a supervised secret-ballot election – a voting method in which an individual’s choices is confidential.
Banks said under a proposed federal law, known as the Employee Free Choice Act or card check, if more than 50 percent of workers at a facility sign a card, the government would have to certify the union and a private ballot election would be prohibited – even if workers request one.
“A card check system would allow union organizers to gather signatures from employees at any time or place in support of unionization, without any oversight or supervision,” Banks said. “Many constituents have expressed concern that such a system would intimidate workers into supporting labor groups they might otherwise vote against in a secret ballot election. That’s why I authored Senate Joint Resolution 10, to ensure workers’ fundamental rights to vote by private ballot are guaranteed by amending the Indiana Constitution.”
Banks said the Associated Builders and Contractors of Indiana, Indiana Chamber of Commerce, Indiana Manufacturers Association and Indiana Policy Review testified in support of the resolution.
If SJR 10 passes, the measure needs to be approved by a second consecutive, separately elected legislature to be placed on the ballot for Hoosier voters to decide.
Banks said Arizona, South Carolina, South Dakota and Utah have passed similar constitutional amendments.

Posted by jennifer321 at 04:14 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 02:26 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 03:12 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 10:45 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo copyright Jennifer Zartman Romano)
This late afternoon glipse of a snow covered Baker Park in Columbia City will be a fading one. Warmer temperatures this week are helping to quickly melt the inches of snow and revealing the long buried ground beneath. Will we see snow again this winter? One never can tell!

Posted by jennifer321 at 10:18 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 10:12 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 10:08 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 03:40 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 01:34 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

It's Valentine's Day and the CC Deli is joining efforts with neighboring business The Watering Can Florist on the Square to surprise one customer today with a dozen roses! All customers who visit the CC Deli today are eligible to win.
This week on Monday and Tuesday, hot wrap sandwiches will be available at the CC Deli from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Customers have requested and the CC Deli has responded -- now offering several soup selections that are gluten free for customers who have wheat allergies. Gluten-free soups include French Onion, White Chili, Chili and Veggie Beef.
What follows are the CC Deli Soups of the Week:
Monday: Chicken Dumpling and Potato Bacon
Tuesday: Chicken with Rice and French Onion*
Wednesday: White Chili* and Chicken Corn Chowder
Thursday: Chili* and Cheesy Potato
Friday: Veggie Beef* and Chicken Tortilla

* denotes the gluten free soups on the menu this week.

Posted by jennifer321 at 01:23 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 01:13 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 09:24 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 09:22 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 09:16 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town file photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Camp Whitley attendees prepare for their water derby in June 2010, above. Mark Parker, below, who directed the camp from 1986 to 1993, has been named Camp Whitley's director for 2011.

Article provided

It is quiet now, but plans are being made for the not-so-far off future when the shores of Troy Cedar Lake in northwest Whitley County will once again resound with the sounds of young campers swimming, boating, and enjoying the programming, both old and new, that Camp Whitley has provided since 1928.
Part of those plans includes an old new face at the helm. Mark Parker, who headed Camp Whitley from 1986-1993, will again assume the director’s duties beginning this coming summer. Parker, a lifelong resident of Columbia City, and educator for the past 25 years, has already been planning for this summer’s camping season. With an eye to providing a traditional summer camp experience with some modern twists, campers are sure to bring home lifetime memories and stories for family and friends.
“In the past, Camp has served generation after generation of campers with a traditional summer camp experience,” said Parker. “Campers come expecting the same swimming, boating, archery, crafts, games and outdoor experience that their parents had, and in some cases that their grandparents had at Camp Whitley. We want to continue to provide that, along with some new twists each summer that make the experience a new and fresh experience every year.”
Parker notes that there have been quite a few improvements to the facilities at Camp Whitely since his first tenure as director. The addition of the Shower facilities, and renovation of the kitchen facilities, new cabins and bunks, improvements and new equipment at the waterfront are just some of the improvements that Parker mentions.
“The programming at Camp will continue to be familiar to almost anyone who has attended Camp in the past,” Parker said. “That is a part of the tradition that we want to continue. Campers come here because of the friends that they make and the activities that they enjoy. They continue to come back because of the relationships that they build with other campers and the counselors and staff that they come in contact with. Our goal this year is to recruit qualified and enthusiastic staff, whose first and foremost goal is that the campers have the absolutely best experience possible, one that makes them want to come back year after year.”
For more information about Camp Whitley, visit the website at www.campwhitley.com

Posted by jennifer321 at 08:59 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 08:51 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 07:13 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 02:39 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 11:35 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

It's easy to wish yourself away to a warm sunny beach in the dead of a Whitley County winter.
Yet, with a little luck -- you might be on your way with the 2011 Passages Inc. Travel Raffle.
Odyssey Travel in Columbia City has donated a $1254 travel voucher for the raffle -- enabling the lucky winner to apply the voucher toward airfare, railway tickets,
cruise, travel packages or, really, your heart's desire!
Tickets are $10 each or 3 for $25 with just 400 available for sale this year.
A winner will be drawn on April 1, 2011 and travel must be completed by April 1, 2012.
The following individuals, including Passages board members, Whitley Crossings Neighborhood Corporation board members, marketing and finance committee members, will be selling tickets for the raffle: Bridget Johnson, Doug Brown, Lindsey Grossnickle, Vanessa Bills, Jaci Worrick, Carl Siler, Randy Holler, Tammy Shoda, Cathy Broxon-Ball, Mike DeFreeuw, Judy Moore, Robin Elsner, Jay Starr, Ben Romine, Kelley Lefever, September McConnell, Jennifer Zartman Romano, Dick Buchanana, Matt Shipman, Ruby Brower, Candice Yeakle, John Stevens, Rick Trump, Angie Heiden, Amy Shaw, Ann Fahl and Aimee Shimasaki.
Tickets are also available at the following locations:
Passages Administrative Office ~ 107 N. Walnut St., Columbia City
Towerview Industries ~ 335 S. Towerview Dr., Columbia City
Odyssey Travel ~ 219 W. Van Buren St., Columbia City
Star Insurance ~ 210 W. Van Buren St., Columbia City
Crossroads Bank ~ 526 W. Connexion Way, Columbia City
Star Bank ~ 717 S. Main St., Churubusco
Star Bank ~ 121 S. State St., South Whitley
Additionally, tickets are available by calling Passages at 244-7688.

Posted by jennifer321 at 11:22 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 07:42 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 07:33 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 07:11 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 07:06 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 06:37 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 11:28 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The Lehmberg building, above, is slated to eventually become the home of Passages, Inc., a local non-profit organization. On Monday, representatives of Passages and Parkview brought their plans for the future sale of the building before the Whitley County Commissioners. Parkview Whitley Hospital will no longer need the Lehmberg building when they move to the new Parkview Whitley campus now under construction.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

A legal representative for Parkview Whitley Hospital as well as two representatives from Passages Inc. attended the Whitley County Commissioners meeting this afternoon in hopes of requesting a formal approval of the sale of the Lehmberg building, a medical office building adjacent to the current Parkview Whitley Hospital on Park Street in Columbia City.
A purchase agreement has been entered into by Passages Inc. who hopes to buy the building and move their administrative offices there. Currently, Passages Inc. is housed in the Marshall Memorial Building, but as plans for the Eagle Tech Academy, the new tech high school, proceed they will need to find other space.
The request for the commissioners' approval was in the spirit of full disclosure since the Lehmberg building had been part of the former Whitley Memorial Hospital.
In 1995, the county gave the assets of its county hospital to Parkview. Shortly thereafter, on June 28, 1995, Whitley Memorial Hospital Inc, a 501c3 non-profit organization was formed that held the assets and titles of properties involved in the transaction. Legal representatives for Parkview felt that because the non-profit entity did not exist when the original transaction documents were signed, it was in everyone's best interest to seek formal approval of the sale of the Lehmberg building.
Commissioner Don Amber went on record to say that he is an employee of Parkview and has been a hospital employee since the acquisition in 1995, having been involved in the discussion at that time when he served as a director at the hospital. He added that he would abstain from voting on the matter, but said he recalled a conversation during that time that indicated that if the building or land would ever no longer be used by the hospital, that it would revert back to the county.
Both the Parkview representative and the county's attorney, Dan Sigler, could not determine if such language existed in the agreements signed between the county and Parkview in 1995.
Rethlake questioned whether Whitley County Council would also need to approve the present sale since they were involved in the original transaction. Sigler was asked to review the documents to determine whether Amber or Rethlake's concerns were addressed.
Commissioners George Schrumpf and Rethlake approved the formal request to approve the sale of the Lehmberg building to Passages Inc.

Posted by jennifer321 at 11:22 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Winter can be awful...and beautiful all at once. Local lakes, now frozen over entirely, are great spaces for outdoor enjoyment in recent weeks -- snowmobiling, four-wheeling, ice fishing, ice skating and exploring. Above, a chilly-but-sunny day is enjoyable at Loon Lake, looking westward from one of several islands that dot the lake's surface.

Posted by jennifer321 at 11:14 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 11:09 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 11:04 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 05:10 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 01:36 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 11:41 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 11:36 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 11:29 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

About Sailrite Enterprises, Inc.

About Whitley County EDC

Posted by jennifer321 at 10:12 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo by Terry Eberly of Eberly Photography) Below, Whitley County Highway Department workers were hard at work to keep the county's roads clear during the worst of last week's weather.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

With last week's snow emergency now behind us, a little time was spent in the Whitley County Commissioners meeting discussing the storm and how county crews handled the natural disaster.
"All in all, everything went very well," said Whitley County Highway Superintendent Michael Barton. "Of course it didn't in those first few hours."
Barton said his drivers were dispatched all over the county to clear roadways, many encountering treacherous situations in the process.
More than 30 calls came in early in the storm for vehicles stranded in snowdrifts, resulting in emergency crews needing to be dispatched, but Barton said those were non-emergencies.
"We had a lot of people stuck in different places," added Sheriff Mark Hodges. Hodges said the calls had to be prioritized by emergency and non-emergency.
Barton said he was glad workers were able to go home the second night.
"It snowed hard and it was very, very windy," Barton said, but agreed with Amber that this snowstorm was much less significant than the Blizzard of '78.
"Everything we did came out well," Barton said.  "They're still pretty tired guys," he added, saying because of Saturday's snowfall highway crews spent much of day clearing roadways once again.
Commissioner Don Amber mentioned that there were several issues that arose early on, indicating systems that might need to be in place prior to future disasters. Namely, in the past they used to have lists of snowmobiles registered within the county -- something that was helpful in creating a volunteer force to help emergency workers get to work. Such lists no longer exist, but Amber feels they would be helpful. Additionally, a list of all county residents who own 4x4 trucks who would be willing to provide volunteer transportation if needed would also be a good idea.
Amber mentioned that Whitley County's snow emergency levels varied from what other county's systems were, creating some confusion.
Amber told Barton and Hodges that he feels that before too much more time passes, Barton, Hodges and other county emergency system-related leaders should meet to discuss the storm and use it to plan for the future.
Another issues that is likely to get future discussion will be the designation of essential and non-essential county employees. Specifically, employees whose jobs pertain to emergency, transportation and communication may need to be considered differently from employees whose function is non-essential in a countywide emergency situation. The issue was brought forth by a representative of the Whitley County Sheriff's Department who said some of his employees had complained because they would not be compensated for the time off given to other government employees who were told not to report to work when Whitley County Government offices were closed for two days.

Posted by jennifer321 at 04:05 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Boats zip across Shriner Lake, at Tri Lakes, last spring. The Tri Lakes Property Owners Association is hoping to forge a greater relationship with the county and, perhaps, one day expand the community's park space.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Tri Lakes Property Owners Association president Todd Nichols appeared before the Whitley County Commissioners a short while ago seeking ways the entities can work and communicate more effectively in the future.
Nichols said he felt there were common goals between the county and the lake community's residents. Namely, having a role in the future of the former Hatchery and State Camp properties at Round Lake. The properties were given to the county by the state recently.
"It is an exquisite piece of property," Nichols said of the State Camp property, a hilly, tree-lined property with over seven acres on the north shore of Round Lake. Operated for many years as the State Camp, the land has several buildings, a park area and a beach.
Nichols and the TLPOA are hopeful that the properties could become part of a larger Tri Lakes County Park. Currently, the Tri Lakes County Park is a small area located off Hatchery Road with a play area for children. That park is currently the county's only community park.
"I guess I struggle with should the county be in the park business," Commissioner Don Amber said. Currently, the county provides $1500 per year from CEDIT funds for the small park's care and maintenance.
Nichols said there is cooperative action taken in other communities with county parks so that no burden is on any one group.
"We don't want to straddle anyone with an incredible financial or labor problem," Nichols said. "We want to do this efficiently."
"One of the biggest headaches we are going to have is those buildings," Commissioner Tom Rethlake said. "The worst thing I can see is for the county to take ownership of it and for those buildings to fall down." Nichols responded saying that the buildings were in good condition and that thousands of dollars had been put into the former State Camp on Round Lake and that those buildings had been used daily for years prior to the agreement with the county and the state.
"We're going to drive hard to find other forms of resources," Nichols said, adding that the board has "tens of thousands of dollars" in their coffers and if given the opportunity, they could seek more for continued care of the parks.
Nichols said the TLPOA is currently considered as a club, but they hope to become more of a public entity in the future, aiding efforts to seek funding and grants for park care if given the opportunity.
Nichols said his biggest goal in attending the meeting Monday was to begin to pave an open line of communication and spirit of working together for what's best for the county's properties at Round Lake, for residents and for the county as a whole.
Commissioner George Schrumpf, a Tri Lakes resident, will begin attending the TLPOA meetings and become more familiar with their interests and future goals as they pertain to the organization and the county.

Posted by jennifer321 at 03:14 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 12:34 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 12:25 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 12:11 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 11:44 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 11:42 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 04:20 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town file photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, Sherri's Place will cease selling alcohol on Monday, February 7, 2011. Restaurant owner Sherri Grim, shown below, said she doesn't really sell that much alcohol and would prefer for her restaurant to be known for its family atmosphere and excellent food.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

On Sunday night, Columbia City restaurateur Sherri Grim will wash her last sudsy beer mug. She'll turn off the taps and say "final call" for the last time.
But Monday morning, she'll reopen her restaurant, Sherri's Place, as truly a family establishment.
"Effective Monday, we will no longer sell alcohol," Grim said Friday. "We want to be known as a family restaurant -- not a bar and grill."
So "bar" will be coming off the sign and the former bar area will be converted to an age 18 and over smoking lounge, but everything else her customers have come to love will remain the same.
"We're still going to have the same great food and great atmosphere," Grim said. "That's simply not going to change."
Grim is hopeful the change won't negatively impact her current customers, but she believes it may bring in more.
"Some people won't come to my restaurant as long as I serve alcohol and we want to become more of a family facility and for our food," Grim said. "We may lose some customers, but I think we'll gain some too."
The decision to remove alcohol from her menu was fairly simple, but one not easily arrived upon.
"We really don't sell that much alcohol and when you put pencil to paper, it all makes sense," she said. "I've mulled this over a long time. I know some people will be upset by this, but paper doesn't lie. It just isn't profitable."
Changes in laws regarding alcohol made selling the occasional beer or mixed drink more complicated too. "With all the new laws requiring us to card everyone -- it's crazy," she added.
Grim said the economy has had a major change on the way customers spend their dollars in her  establishment, and probably others as well.
"If I had a dollar for every glass of water we serve," Grim said with a laugh, adding that whether it is cost or health, customers are cutting back when dining out -- and usually the cuts involve what they choose to drink. "The economy has made a big time difference."
"I think people are living healthier and drinking a lot more water," she said.
"Sometimes, change is good," added Grim.
Another, less significant change effective Sunday is that Sherri's Place will now close on Sundays at 7 p.m. instead of 8 p.m.

Posted by jennifer321 at 05:51 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 05:30 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 05:27 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 02:39 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 02:31 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 11:57 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo courtesy Ide's Honey Farm) Pierceton beekeeper Stan Ide will be the featured speaker at the Whitley County Soil and Water Conservation District's 55th annual meeting. Above, Ide holds a swarm of bees on his Pierceton farm.

By Nadean Lamle

The Whitley County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is inviting the community to attend their 55th annual meeting.  
The event will be held Tuesday, February 15, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Eagles Nest Event Center, 125 S Eagle Glen Trail, in Columbia City.
The evening will begin with a meal served by the Eagles Nest staff followed by a short business meeting and a few awards
Pierceton resident and beekeeper Stan Ide will be the keynote speaker for the event. He will speak about "The Amazing Honeybee."
Reservations are required. Please call the Whitley County SWCD office at 244-6266 ext.3 to make your reservations for the meal and the cost is $5 per person.
To learn more about Ide's Honey Farm, visit www.ideshoneyfarm.com

Posted by jennifer321 at 11:47 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 11:17 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo provided) Larwill resident Jeremy Jefferson, below, has created a way for Whitley County residents to listen to the emergency scanner anytime online -- without purchasing their own scanner.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

There's no doubt the internet and social media made following the weather situation Tuesday and Wednesday a very interesting social experience. Unlike the Blizzard of '78, Whitley County residents had a variety of tools at their fingertips to keep track of the storm, respond and to know how friends and neighbors were coping as it happened.
Additionally, more than 200 Whitley County residents had yet another tool -- Whitley County's digital, online scanner -- Scan Whitley Online.
Via the website Scan Whitley Online website, located at www.scanwc.com, residents can listen in to the police, fire and other emergency radio traffic to hear what's happening around them.
The website was created by 24-year-old Jeremy Jefferson of Larwill. A 2005 graduate of Whitko High School and a 2009 graduate of ITT, Jefferson has been involved in web design, computer consulting for several Northeast Indiana businesses and offering computer help desk services for several years.
"I have done websites for Fort Wayne Irrigation, Fort Wayne Women’s Bureau, Fort Wayne Aquatics to name a few," said Jefferson, a 20-year resident of Larwill. "I recently finished a major project with the Fort Wayne Women’s Bureau in which I made and managed the online sign-up process for the 2010 Walk a Mile In her Shoes in Fort Wayne in which we had so many walkers that we set a Guinness World Record.  All the signups and online payments for that went through my system. I have done IT work for the YWCA, Boy Scouts of America, Fort Wayne Women’s Bureau and many more."
Jefferson's idea to create the Scan Whitley Online website was an opportunity to merge a personal interest with his web design skills.
"I bought a scanner and wanted to setup an archiving system for my personal use.  That way I could find out what is or was going on when I hear sirens or see something in Whitley County," Jefferson said. "I’ve always been interested in knowing what is going on, but never had a scanner until 2010 believe it or not."
Shortly after purchasing his scanner, Jefferson wondered if there would be a way to put the communication he was hearing in his home online for more people to hear.
"I decided I could use my skills in web application programming to make the archives and stream available to anyone.  I enjoy making websites and enjoy being able to offer a service other people find useful," he said. Indeed, his website has become very useful for hundreds of Whitley County residents.
Jefferson made the site public in April 2010. When he launched the site in August, he had a handful of registered users on the site. Within nine months, he reached 100 registered users. In the past three weeks, he's gotten another 100 users and thus far in February, he's had 67 new users register. He estimates that about 10 of his listeners are "heavy users" -- meaning they come back to the site every few days. Others pop online frequently to hear what's happening.
Tuesday's storm was a great example of how useful the internet scanner can be for residents wanting to know what was happening around them. "A lot of users only use the service when something exciting happens," he said.
"In fact, 56 different people connected to our stream Tuesday night when the storm started and we had up to 30 different users connected at one time," Jefferson stated.
Currently, Scan Whitley Online covers Whitley County's volunteer fire departments, EMS, Columbia City Police and the Whitley County Sheriff's Department.
Jefferson said his listeners have been very supportive of the website and appreciate the ability to know what's going on with regards to emergency situations in the community -- including several in law enforcement.
"I have one listener who frequents the site that works for the Sheriff’s Department.  He finds my archive system most useful," said Jefferson.
In addition to being able to listen to current communication on the scanner, registered users can go back into the archives and listen to what was happening 15 minutes ago or a few months ago.
Jefferson has invested more than $1000 of his own money to create the site, but he wants to keep it free to users as a public service for Whitley County.
When local law enforcement switched to digital communications recently, Jefferson knew the change would be costly to fellow scanner listeners with new scanners costing upwards of $500. "My service will allow them to continue to listen without taking a hit to their pocket book," Jefferson said.
Jefferson has his equipment set up in Larwill, but the site is located on a server in Chicago.
"The service is highly stable right now," Jefferson said. "All the networking equipment at Larwill is backed up for 90 minutes in the event of a power outage.  So if my power goes out during a storm, the scanner stays live for 90 minutes.  Some very valuable and interesting information comes over the scanner during bad storms, so I see this as a huge plus."
Jefferson worked at a feverish pace in January to work some bugs out of the site and new software while adding some new features too. Now, when users are listening to the site traffic, a digital reading shows which emergency entity is talking, further helping listeners understand what is happening.
In addition to maintaining the site, Jefferson also recently created a page for the site on Facebook to get the word out about what he's doing and hopefully grow his listener base.

To listen to Scan Whitley Online, register and become a user at www.scanwc.com

Posted by jennifer321 at 02:47 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

From reports

National Serv-All will resume operations this morning, Thursday, February 3, 2011. All collections the rest of the week will be one day later than usual.
Wednesday collections will be performed on Thursday; Thursday work on Friday; and Friday work on Saturday.

Posted by jennifer321 at 09:04 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 09:02 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 08:58 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

Posted by jennifer321 at 05:43 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photos by Terry Eberly of Eberly Photography)
Despite the snowfall, South Whitley was a bustling place today. Above, Rhonda and Scott Darley waive from inside Moyer's Cafe where they were enjoying a hot meal during the blustery snow storm. Below, South Whitley town employee Kent Slater, standing outside, shovels snow into a dump truck driven by town employee Ron Anderson amid Wednesday's ongoing flurries.

Posted by jennifer321 at 05:30 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Lilly)
You've heard it more than a few times by now, but staying home and off the roads is a good idea. For proof of this -- take a look at what northern Whitley County resident Jennifer Lilly saw around mid-day Wednesday. Lilly was looking across her pasture in the direction of CR 200 East an noticed that a Whitley County Highway truck had become stuck in the process of clearing the roadway. Fortunately two other county vehicles came to the driver's rescue and pulled the vehicle free to continue the arduous task of clearing rural Whitley County this morning.

Posted by jennifer321 at 05:23 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options

(Talk of the Town photo by Carol Kurtz)
Loon Lake resident Carol Kurtz was settling in for a long, blizzardy evening Tuesday when she look across the lake to see an ice fisherman content at his hobby. The wind was blowing and the snow was flying, but the dedicated fisherman kept at it -- even with the wind blowing right in his face. Kurtz said the hole must be a good one as there have been fisherman at that particular location all winter long. We agree -- it takes some real dedication to keep on fishing in a blizzard!

Posted by jennifer321 at 05:06 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

options