Snapshots: 2011 American Legion Post 98 Memorial Day Parade in Columbia City
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May 31, 2011
EDC's Small Business & Entrepreneurship Initiative reaches important milestones
Article provided
The Whitley County EDC announced today that EDC’s Small Business & Entrepreneurship Initiative (SBEI) has reached two important milestones, with 10 clients completing an ten-week FastTrac New Ventures business planning course and 16 clients completing an additional six months of business coaching with SBEI advisors.
SBEI provides resources for pre-startup, startup and growing businesses in Whitley County by combining the Kauffman Institute’s FastTrac New Ventures business planning course with personal business coaching provided by seasoned and experienced business owner. SBEI is led by aerospace and defense industry veteran, Bruce Stach; FastTrac facilitator and owner of Sallot Ventures, Sharon Sallot; and Small Business Development Center (SBDC) business advisor Scot Goskowicz.
"We are extremely proud of the time and energy our clients have dedicated to working on their businesses.” said Stach. “Each graduate of the program has developed a much clearer sense of how they will approach their business in the months and years ahead.”
To date, the EDC’s Small Business & Entrepreneurship Initiative has worked with 16 companies that have created or retained 49 jobs and have secured $2.25 million in new investment. The program was launched in 2009 with a Rural Capacity Grant from the Indiana Office of Community & Rural Affairs, matching funds from the Northeast Indiana Fund and the Whitley County Community Foundation, and in-kind support from the EDC.
“This economy has required us to be creative about how we approach our economic development efforts. SBEI embraces the fundamental idea that our economic growth is going to be driven by locally based entrepreneurs,” said EDC president Alan Tio. “The EDC will continue to focus on adapting this program to encourage new and existing companies to create and retain jobs in our community.”
The ten companies completing FastTrac New Ventures this spring are now working with SBEI advisors to focus on business development and strategic planning. Future SBEI programming to support startup and growth stage companies is being planned to launch in summer and fall 2011.
For more information on the EDC’s Small Business & Entrepreneurship Initiative, please contact program manager Bruce Stach via email at bstach@whitleyedc.com or by calling 244-5506.
Open auditions begin for Whitley County Children's Choir's second season
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Auditions begin today, Tuesday, May 31, 2011, for the Whitley County Children's Choir's 2011-2012 season.
Tonight, auditions will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. in the music room at Columbia City United Methodist Church. Auditions will also be held on Tuesday, June 7, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the church.
"The choir is affiliated with the Fort Wayne Children's Choir, a program that has been running since 1972. We follow their standards and curriculum," stated choir director Heidi Emmert. "This is a great program for kids that want to learn more about music. They also get to meet and make many new friends!"
Emmert said that last year, 35 local students participated in the new, local choir and performed in front of an audience of 1000 in Fort Wayne as well as a large group of supporters here in Columbia City.
"We are wanting to build our numbers and expand the choirs," Emmert continued. "Auditions are open to the ENTIRE county of Whitley County."
For additional information about the Whitley County Children's Choir, contact Heidi Emmert at 244-4375.
Final 'First Friday Networking' of the season for Leadership Whitley County is Friday
From reports
Leadership Whitley County will host their last networking event of the season this Friday, June 3, from 5 to 6 p.m. at Portside Pizza, Tri Lakes.
This final "First Friday Networking" will be informal.
Leadership Whitley County alumni, those planning to enroll in 2011-2012 and their guests are welcome to attend. Additionally, anyone interested in learning more about Leadership Whitley County may attend. The networking events for LWC alumni will resume in the fall.
CC Deli's Soups of the Week
Try a CC Deli barbecue chicken sandwich today, Tuesday, May 31, or tomorrow, June 1. The special recipe sandwiches will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
What follows are the CC Deli Soups of the Week:
Tuesday: Tomato Tortellini and Chicken Dumpling
Wednesday: White Chili* and Stuffed Pepper
Thursday: Cheesy Potato and Tomato Bisque
Friday: Veggie Beef* and Chicken Noodle
*denotes soups that are gluten free.
What follows are the CC Deli Soups of the Week:
Tuesday: Tomato Tortellini and Chicken Dumpling
Wednesday: White Chili* and Stuffed Pepper
Thursday: Cheesy Potato and Tomato Bisque
Friday: Veggie Beef* and Chicken Noodle
*denotes soups that are gluten free.
May 30, 2011
E-books have arrived at Peabody Public Library
By Ray Ranier
The Peabody Public Library has joined the Indiana Digital Media Consortium to bring its patrons downloadable e-books and audio books from Overdrive, the leader in library electronic media.
The consortium has several libraries in it, multiplying buying power and offering over 1500 titles for loan. Overdrive e-books will transfer to most e-readers and can also be read on computer. These books expire automatically so there is no need to worry about overdue items on your account. While Kindle readers are not compatible with this service at the present time, Overdrive and Amazon have agreed to make the e-books available sometime this year.
Overdrive also offers a selection of unabridged books in audio format that can be played on most mp3 and iPod devices. Like the e-books, the audio consists of current popular fiction and nonfiction. In addition to these newer titles, you will also have easy access to over 15,000 classics available through the Project Gutenberg site. If you ever wanted to read Dickens, Defoe or Dostoevsky, this is your chance.
The library also has over 5,000 titles from Netlibrary that are available to be read on your computer or iPad. These are mostly reference titles on subjects such as law, computers, medicine or other technical and recreational topics.
The staff of the library stands ready to assist you in getting set up to use this new and exciting service.
The Peabody Public Library has joined the Indiana Digital Media Consortium to bring its patrons downloadable e-books and audio books from Overdrive, the leader in library electronic media.
The consortium has several libraries in it, multiplying buying power and offering over 1500 titles for loan. Overdrive e-books will transfer to most e-readers and can also be read on computer. These books expire automatically so there is no need to worry about overdue items on your account. While Kindle readers are not compatible with this service at the present time, Overdrive and Amazon have agreed to make the e-books available sometime this year.
Overdrive also offers a selection of unabridged books in audio format that can be played on most mp3 and iPod devices. Like the e-books, the audio consists of current popular fiction and nonfiction. In addition to these newer titles, you will also have easy access to over 15,000 classics available through the Project Gutenberg site. If you ever wanted to read Dickens, Defoe or Dostoevsky, this is your chance.
The library also has over 5,000 titles from Netlibrary that are available to be read on your computer or iPad. These are mostly reference titles on subjects such as law, computers, medicine or other technical and recreational topics.
The staff of the library stands ready to assist you in getting set up to use this new and exciting service.
Huntington Universtity EXCEL program offering reduced tuition for active duty military personnel
By Ashley Smith
Thousands of men and women loyally serve this country each year in the armed forces. As a way to say thank you, the EXCEL Adult Degree Programs at Huntington University has lowered the cost of its degree programs for active-duty military personnel.
Beginning with the fall semester, tuition will be reduced from $340 per credit hour to $250 per credit hour for all 100 and 200 level courses for active-duty military personnel and their dependents.
“Huntington University has taken this step in a difficult economy to recognize the contributions our military personnel are making for our country, often at significant personal sacrifice,” said Dr. Rick Upchurch, director of EXCEL. “We are proud to provide a Christ-centered, nationally-recognized educational experience at a price that will make this a viable option for military families.”
Numerous military personnel have enrolled in the EXCEL program since its inception in 1993 because of its reputation for quality education and the high standards it sets for its students.
Senior Master Sgt. John Furge, a 2005 EXCEL graduate, used the program to finish his bachelor’s degree in organization management while continuing his career in the 122nd Fighter Wing of the Indiana Air National Guard in Fort Wayne, Ind. Chief Master Sgt. Tim Tolentino, also of the Fighter Wing, transferred to the program after discovering the convenience of the onsite classes and the quality of the professors.
“The flexibility that I had through Huntington fit perfectly with my schedule especially as a military person. They understood that sometimes duty calls,” said Tolentino, a 2007 graduate. “They took into consideration that we were working people and that we were fitting education into our schedule, but they still made it challenging. They empower you to learn.”
Huntington University offers a wide range of courses online. EXCEL offers associate degree programs in Christian ministry and organizational management in addition to bachelor's degree programs in business administration, human resource management and not-for-profit leadership. Huntington also offers all of those programs onsite in addition to bachelor’s degree programs in marketing, accounting and nursing (RN to BSN). Onsite classes are held one night per week, one subject at a time in Huntington, Columbia City and Wabash, Ind. A 15-credit hour TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certificate is also offered in an accelerated format in Huntington.
Huntington’s online program has been nationally ranked for online Christian colleges and universities for its student satisfaction, peer and instructional quality, affordability and credibility.
Learn more about the opportunities available through EXCEL’s degree programs at www.huntington.edu/excel.
Thousands of men and women loyally serve this country each year in the armed forces. As a way to say thank you, the EXCEL Adult Degree Programs at Huntington University has lowered the cost of its degree programs for active-duty military personnel.
Beginning with the fall semester, tuition will be reduced from $340 per credit hour to $250 per credit hour for all 100 and 200 level courses for active-duty military personnel and their dependents.
“Huntington University has taken this step in a difficult economy to recognize the contributions our military personnel are making for our country, often at significant personal sacrifice,” said Dr. Rick Upchurch, director of EXCEL. “We are proud to provide a Christ-centered, nationally-recognized educational experience at a price that will make this a viable option for military families.”
Numerous military personnel have enrolled in the EXCEL program since its inception in 1993 because of its reputation for quality education and the high standards it sets for its students.
Senior Master Sgt. John Furge, a 2005 EXCEL graduate, used the program to finish his bachelor’s degree in organization management while continuing his career in the 122nd Fighter Wing of the Indiana Air National Guard in Fort Wayne, Ind. Chief Master Sgt. Tim Tolentino, also of the Fighter Wing, transferred to the program after discovering the convenience of the onsite classes and the quality of the professors.
“The flexibility that I had through Huntington fit perfectly with my schedule especially as a military person. They understood that sometimes duty calls,” said Tolentino, a 2007 graduate. “They took into consideration that we were working people and that we were fitting education into our schedule, but they still made it challenging. They empower you to learn.”
Huntington University offers a wide range of courses online. EXCEL offers associate degree programs in Christian ministry and organizational management in addition to bachelor's degree programs in business administration, human resource management and not-for-profit leadership. Huntington also offers all of those programs onsite in addition to bachelor’s degree programs in marketing, accounting and nursing (RN to BSN). Onsite classes are held one night per week, one subject at a time in Huntington, Columbia City and Wabash, Ind. A 15-credit hour TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certificate is also offered in an accelerated format in Huntington.
Huntington’s online program has been nationally ranked for online Christian colleges and universities for its student satisfaction, peer and instructional quality, affordability and credibility.
Learn more about the opportunities available through EXCEL’s degree programs at www.huntington.edu/excel.
Lady Eagle Tennis Boosters to host annual tennis tournament June 24-26
Columbia City will be holding the 4th Annual Tennis Tournament. Proceeds go to the Lady Eagle Tennis Boosters. The tournament will take place at Devol Field on Friday, June 24, Saturday, June 25, and Sunday, June 26, 2011. The cost is $12 for singles and $20 for doubles plus a can of tennis balls. There are many events to choose from. T-shirts are guaranteed for all entry forms received by June 20. Deadline for entry is June 20. If interested, you may pick up a pamphlet at Brewha or the YMCA in Columbia City. Any questions contact Katie Myers at 610-1640 or kc.ktmyers@frontier.com.
May 29, 2011
Community invited to line Van Buren Street, travel to the cemetery for Memorial Day Parade and observance in Columbia City
(Talk of the Town photo copyright Jennifer Zartman Romano)
American Legion Post 98 will host their annual Memorial Day Parade this Monday, May 30, 2011. Beginning at 10 a.m., anyone interested in participating in the parade should arrive at the Marshall Community Building on Walnut Street in Columbia City. From there, at 10:30 a.m., the parade will proceed eastward down Van Buren Street and south on Madison to Greenhill Cemetery where further activities will take place. Above, a display of crosses and flags representing Whitley County's deceased war veterans decorates the lawn of American Legion Post 98. Legion volunteers have also placed flags in each of the county's cemeteries -- one for each known veteran buried there. Families are invited to place those flags on veterans flags in remembrance of their sacrifice.
Memorial Day observances planned in 'Busco
From the BuscoVoice.com
Memorial Day services will be held again this year at Riverview and Eel River cemeteries on Monday, May 30, 2011.
The ceremonies will be conducted by the American Legion Honor Guard and various VFW and Legion members.
Two D-Day combat veterans will be assisted by current military personnel in placing the wreaths.
Services will begin at Riverview at 11 a.m., then move to Eel River immediately after.
A free lunch will be served at the American Legion following the services.
At 6 p.m. a Post Everlasting service will be held to honor our area’s recently deceased veterans.
The public is invited and encouraged to attend all of these activities and we encourage you to leave stories and/or memorials to those who have served this great country.
Memorial Day services will be held again this year at Riverview and Eel River cemeteries on Monday, May 30, 2011.
The ceremonies will be conducted by the American Legion Honor Guard and various VFW and Legion members.
Two D-Day combat veterans will be assisted by current military personnel in placing the wreaths.
Services will begin at Riverview at 11 a.m., then move to Eel River immediately after.
A free lunch will be served at the American Legion following the services.
At 6 p.m. a Post Everlasting service will be held to honor our area’s recently deceased veterans.
The public is invited and encouraged to attend all of these activities and we encourage you to leave stories and/or memorials to those who have served this great country.
Banks to chair Taxpayer Protection Caucus
By Erin Reece
Recently, Americans for Tax Reform announced that State Senator Jim Banks of Columbia City will chair the Taxpayer Protection Caucus in the Indiana Senate.
To join the caucus, a legislator must have signed the Taxpayer Protection Pledge, thereby putting their commitment to constituents and state residents to “oppose and vote against any and all efforts to increase taxes” in writing. With the addition of Sen. Banks, there are now 39 Taxpayer Protection Caucuses in 31 states. Every state (with the exception of unicameral Nebraska) will soon have both a Senate and House caucus consisting of all pledge signers in the legislature.
“Jim Banks is a true fiscal conservative and will serve as an essential proponent for Indiana taxpayers in this leadership role,” said Joshua Culling, Indiana state affairs manager for Americans for Tax Reform. “We couldn’t be happier that Sen. Banks has agreed to chair the Indiana Senate Taxpayer Protection Caucus as an advocate of lower taxes and limited government policies that will help Indiana families and businesses through private sector-led job creation and economic growth.”
The Taxpayer Protection Caucuses provide a single voice on tax issues among pro-taxpayer legislators, and form entire bodies of legislators that believe in the same principle: no new taxes. In Indiana, these seven senators will join together to resist any bills that would raise the net tax burden on Hoosiers. Considering the budget battles many states face across the country, taxes continue to be very high on the radar screen of voters and the media. Journalists will be able to go to the chair of the caucus for comments on tax issues.
“We look forward to working with Jim Banks in securing more Pledge signers in the Indiana Senate. Until you take tax increases firmly off the table, true and lasting spending restraint is impossible,”added Culling. “Senator Banks is a leader on fiscal issues, and we are ecstatic about his commitment to a fiscally conservative Indiana.”
Recently, Americans for Tax Reform announced that State Senator Jim Banks of Columbia City will chair the Taxpayer Protection Caucus in the Indiana Senate.
To join the caucus, a legislator must have signed the Taxpayer Protection Pledge, thereby putting their commitment to constituents and state residents to “oppose and vote against any and all efforts to increase taxes” in writing. With the addition of Sen. Banks, there are now 39 Taxpayer Protection Caucuses in 31 states. Every state (with the exception of unicameral Nebraska) will soon have both a Senate and House caucus consisting of all pledge signers in the legislature.
“Jim Banks is a true fiscal conservative and will serve as an essential proponent for Indiana taxpayers in this leadership role,” said Joshua Culling, Indiana state affairs manager for Americans for Tax Reform. “We couldn’t be happier that Sen. Banks has agreed to chair the Indiana Senate Taxpayer Protection Caucus as an advocate of lower taxes and limited government policies that will help Indiana families and businesses through private sector-led job creation and economic growth.”
The Taxpayer Protection Caucuses provide a single voice on tax issues among pro-taxpayer legislators, and form entire bodies of legislators that believe in the same principle: no new taxes. In Indiana, these seven senators will join together to resist any bills that would raise the net tax burden on Hoosiers. Considering the budget battles many states face across the country, taxes continue to be very high on the radar screen of voters and the media. Journalists will be able to go to the chair of the caucus for comments on tax issues.
“We look forward to working with Jim Banks in securing more Pledge signers in the Indiana Senate. Until you take tax increases firmly off the table, true and lasting spending restraint is impossible,”added Culling. “Senator Banks is a leader on fiscal issues, and we are ecstatic about his commitment to a fiscally conservative Indiana.”
May 27, 2011
The message is simple... Don't Leave Town!
(Talk of the Town photo by Mahri Romano)
This morning at Whitley County Business & Networking, an exciting intiative was launched to promote multiple great events happening in Columbia City on Saturday, June 25, 2011. A joint promotion of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce, Whitley County Business & Networking, Running Around 
Screenprinting and Talk of the Town, the point is to promote numerous great events that will make up a full day of activities in Columbia City including the Indiana Highland Games, Whitley County Farmers Market, Hammer Run, Hammer It Home Car Show for Habitat for Humanity, OSD festivities in downtown Columbia City, Old Settlers Day Run/Walk, Master Gardeners' Garden Walk and the American Legion's Old Settlers Day Parade.
Special edition "Don't Leave Town" t-shirts are now available for just $5 each to promote all the events, thanks to JoAnn Bird of Running Around Screen Printing.
T- shirts are available to order at the Whitley County Chamber, BABE and LT Foundations Real Estate/ Ruoff Mortgage. Available sizes include youth medium to adult 10XL. Fun games and prizes will be associated with the t-shirt created for the intiative, so be sure to order one and participate.
Above, from left, is Tina Houser of LT Foundations Real Estate, Jennifer Zartman Romano of Talk of the Town, Sara Lochner-Goff of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce, Randy Holler of Crossroads Bank, Bryan Graham of Ruoff Mortgage, JoAnn Bird of Running Around Screenprinting and Shawn Ellis of BABE. At left, JoAnn Bird shows the shirt she designed for the "Don't Leave Town" promotion.
Faith Christian Academy middle schoolers raise funds for Whitley County's Habitat for Humanity
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Last weekend, Faith Christian Academy's middle school students hosted a garage sale to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity of Whitley County. This morning, Friday, May 27, on the last day of school for the 2010-2011 school year, students presented a check with the proceeds from the sale to the local organization which provides housing and life skill building for families in need. Above, from left in front, is Habitat for Humanity's Mary Tobin and Faith Christian Academy middle school teacher Susan Lewis. From left, in row two, are middle school students Leigha Walker, Rebecca Couch, Hannah Koller, James Cash and Tyler Linder.
Peters, Danner are top of Whitko High School's Class of 2011
From the Tribune-News
Gayle June Peters, 18, daughter of Gary Peters and Ginger Peters has been named the 2011 Valedictorian at Whitko High School.
Thomas Danner, 18, is salutatorian. He is the son of Hyon Danner and Todd Danner.
Peters is active in FFA, Student Council, Students Against Destructive Decisions, National Honor Society, Art Club and 4-H.
She plans to study animal science, pre-veterinary courses at Purdue University. She is a 2011 recipient of the President’s Scholarship of Purdue University and a Lily Endowment Community Scholarship.
Eventually Peters would like to open her own large animal vet clinic and begin a program for 4-H or FFA members in the animal science field.
Danner plans to attend Indiana University at Bloomington and study biology.
His extra curricular activities include academic teams, pep band, National Honor Society and the tennis team.
Danner plans to continue his education at a medical school.
Gayle June Peters, 18, daughter of Gary Peters and Ginger Peters has been named the 2011 Valedictorian at Whitko High School.
Thomas Danner, 18, is salutatorian. He is the son of Hyon Danner and Todd Danner.
Peters is active in FFA, Student Council, Students Against Destructive Decisions, National Honor Society, Art Club and 4-H.
She plans to study animal science, pre-veterinary courses at Purdue University. She is a 2011 recipient of the President’s Scholarship of Purdue University and a Lily Endowment Community Scholarship.
Eventually Peters would like to open her own large animal vet clinic and begin a program for 4-H or FFA members in the animal science field.
Danner plans to attend Indiana University at Bloomington and study biology.
His extra curricular activities include academic teams, pep band, National Honor Society and the tennis team.
Danner plans to continue his education at a medical school.
The Oaks, Oak Pointe become Parkview Oaks, Parkview Pointe
Article provided
Long known in Whitley County as The Oaks and Oak Pointe, Parkview Whitley Hospital’s long-term care facilities have been renamed Parkview Oaks and Parkview Pointe, respectively.
The name change comes as Parkview Oaks introduces an emphasis on rehab-to-home care and on the specialized needs it is able to address with its numerous rehabilitation programs, from stroke recovery and pain management to speech and physical therapy.
“We want the community to know we are dedicated to providing a culture of care devoted to service excellence, which Parkview is known for,” said Chad Smyth, executive director. “While we do provide long-term care, our specialty is clearly focused on rehabilitation and clinically complex care with the ultimate goal of getting people home.”
“The community expects quality care from Parkview,” said Scott Gabriel, Parkview Whitley Hospital chief operating officer. “Parkview Whitley Hospital, Parkview Oaks and Parkview Pointe pledge to provide excellent service to all who entrust their care to us.”
In 1993, Whitley County Memorial Hospital purchased the Columbia City Community Care Center and changed the name to The Oaks. In 1995, the hospital joined the Parkview family. Oak Pointe, a long-term care center consisting of 48 apartments, was built next to The Oaks nursing home in 2000.
Long known in Whitley County as The Oaks and Oak Pointe, Parkview Whitley Hospital’s long-term care facilities have been renamed Parkview Oaks and Parkview Pointe, respectively.
The name change comes as Parkview Oaks introduces an emphasis on rehab-to-home care and on the specialized needs it is able to address with its numerous rehabilitation programs, from stroke recovery and pain management to speech and physical therapy.
“We want the community to know we are dedicated to providing a culture of care devoted to service excellence, which Parkview is known for,” said Chad Smyth, executive director. “While we do provide long-term care, our specialty is clearly focused on rehabilitation and clinically complex care with the ultimate goal of getting people home.”
“The community expects quality care from Parkview,” said Scott Gabriel, Parkview Whitley Hospital chief operating officer. “Parkview Whitley Hospital, Parkview Oaks and Parkview Pointe pledge to provide excellent service to all who entrust their care to us.”
In 1993, Whitley County Memorial Hospital purchased the Columbia City Community Care Center and changed the name to The Oaks. In 1995, the hospital joined the Parkview family. Oak Pointe, a long-term care center consisting of 48 apartments, was built next to The Oaks nursing home in 2000.
Churubusco High School seniors honored with awards, scholarships today
(Talk of the Town photo by BuscoVoice.com) Churubusco High School senior Cassandra Petrie, above, receives one of several honors awarded during the annual awards program Friday, May 27, 2011.
From the BuscoVoice.com
The annual awards program celebrating achievements of the high school students, including this year’s graduating class, was held today in the Jason Smith Auditorium.
Many graduating seniors were honored and presented with scholarships and awards throughout the first portion of the event. The following students received scholarships:
Rotary Scholarship – Dustin Arvola, Barb Kreger, Cassandra Petrie, Stacie Roehrman and Ally Shambaugh
Olive B. Cole Scholarship – Dustin Arvola, Autumn Bundy, Lindsay Cornewell and Erik Pippenger
Gaylord Jackson Scholarship – Dustin Arvola, Shannon Kuznar, Ally Shambaugh, Crystal Sorg and Rhayah Wallace
Lions Club Scholarship – Amanda Farner, Shawn Kelley and David Stilwell
Jim Hageman Memorial Scholarship – Zack Armstead, Spencer Conrad, Jeremy Forker, Tyler Fulkerson, Evan Hill and Charles Huelsenbeck
Churubusco Building Trades Scholarship – Zack Armstead, Amanda Farner and Stephanie Witzenman
National Honor Society Scholarship – Chloe Kattau and Marla Martinez
Barclay Curtis Hudson Memorial Scholarship – Brandon Johnson and Cassandra Petrie
Churubusco Chamber of Commerce Scholarship – Melissa Bueker and Stephanie Witzenman
Tom Fletcher Memorial/Turtle Days Board Scholarship – Dustin Arvola and Sarah Schmidt
Class of 2010 Scholarship – Sarah Schmidt
Churubusco SADD Scholarship – Shelby Bering
Student Council Scholarship – Dustin Arvola
Randy Seimer Memorial Scholarship – Melissa Bueker
Andrew C. Spencer Memorial Scholarship – Dustin Arvola
Megan Christine Young Memorial Scholarship – Alexandra Walker
Noble Co. Initiatives “Top Ten” Scholarship – Dustin Arvola
ROTC Scholarship – Brianne Burkhart
Steel Dynamics Scholarship – Dustin Arvola
Whitley Co. Anne Hamilton Art Scholarship – Autumn Bundy
Ben Konger Memorial Scholarship – Sarah Schmidt
Whitley County H.A.N.D.S. Scholarship – Dustin Arvola
Smith-Green School Board Scholarship – Lindsay Cornewell
Indiana Conservation Officers Scholarship – Zack Armstead
Bernice Carver Scholarship of Hope – Dylan Herendeen
Whitley Co. Senior Survey Scholarship – Ryan Farlow
Sonny McClure Memorial Scholarship – Barb Kreger
Paul Schmidt Busco Football Scholarship – Zack Armstead and Dustin Arvola
Clifford Deel Memorial Masonic Scholarship – Lindsay Cornewell
David Salomon Scholarship – Chelsey Penley
Churubusco American Legion Scholarship- Jade Rollins
Turtletown Players Scholarship – Cassandra Petrie
Andrea Norman Henry & John Anthony Norman Theatre Scholarship – Cassandra Petrie
Churubusco Fine Arts/ Thespian Scholarship – Cassandra Petrie
Ivy Tech Community College Choice Scholarship – Stephanie Witzenman
Some students also received scholarships from outside sources and institutions. Congratulations to the Churubusco High School Class of 2011!
Many students in grades 9-12 were then honored in the second half of the program for various academic and extracurricular achievements.
May 26, 2011
Enjoying peace & quiet at Churubusco's Quiet Corner
Flooding around the county
(Talk of the Town photo by Viv Sade of BuscoVoice.com)
After the downpours and unrelenting storms of the past several days, it is no surprise to find serious flooding in many areas of Whitley County today. Above, a large pool of standing water in Churubusco.
Churubusco establishment makes the bold move to go 'smoke-free' this week
(Talk of the Town photo by BuscoVoice.com) Churubusco's Tennis' Ramble Inn has made the bold move of becoming a smoke-free establishment. The eatery closed Sunday and reopened Tuesday newly cleaned, painted and banning cigarette smoke. They will also now accept credit cards.
From BuscoVoice.com
The flagging economy combined with rising gas and food costs has taken a toll.
“The past few years have been a struggle for us,” said Renee Tennis-Mckinley and Sarah Kean, owners of Tennis’ Ramble Inn. "After a lot of thought, and the tossing around of many ideas, we have decided it is time to make some changes.”
The big change: the Churubusco establishment has gone smoke-free.
These changes went into effect Tuesday, May 24, 2011. To be ready for the new direction, The Ramble Inn closed Sunday, May 22, to do some cleaning and painting, remaining closed Monday, May 23 for training in credit card transaction, and finishing the painting process. The Ramble reopened on Tuesday, May 24.
One benefit for customers through these changes is the restaraunt will now begin accepting credit cards. “This is a convenience we held off for a long time due to the fees and equipment costs. However, times have changed, and we need to follow the trend,” they said.
There have also been some updates to the menu. “Yes, this means some price increases to cover our rising food and labor costs. But, we believe we have kept things as affordable as possible,” they added.
There are a few new items, particularly to the breakfast menu. There are several new omelets and more choices on some of the standard breakfast plates and they will be offering turkey sausage as an alternative to pork.
But perhaps the biggest change to be seen is the new smoke-free environment. “The biggest and most difficult decision we have made is to go entirely smoke-free," the women said.
"We have thought of ourselves as a family oriented restaurant, but the cigarette smoke is a deterrent to families with children. The most common complaint we hear is about the heavy cigarette odor,” stated the owners in regards to the decision.
“We are quite aware that this is a controversial decision. We have many loyal smoking customers that we have come to know and care about over the twenty-seven years we have been here. We hope you will continue to patronize our business,” the owners stated.
Councilwoman would like to see sidewalk enhancements in Larwill
From the Tribune-News
Councilwoman Lore Wolf would like to spend some of town’s rainy day fund on sidewalks, saying during the Thursday, May 12, 2011, meeting that so many of the town's sidewalks are in disrepair.
She said that in some areas the road is higher than the sidewalk and dirt has come down on them. Grass is growing in the cracks and others are just broken.
Treasurer Renee Sills said the town does have a 50-50 policy where the town pays for half the cost.
Councilman Rich Hobbs said it wasn’t the town’s responsibility to improve a homeowner’s property.
Town attorney Greg Hockemeyer argued that the sidewalks were in the public right-of-way.
The town plans to abide by state laws regarding golf carts. They should be driven by licensed drivers.
The snowplowing bid, approved last month, was recinded because it did not adhere to specificiations. The item was tabled.
The town clean up will be in June.
Two bids were opened for street repair. Niblock Excavating and Asphalt, Columbia City, submitted a bid of $24,484.50 and Phend and Brown’s bid was $36,300.
And ordinance regarding inspection of rental properties was approved
The town is taking nominations for Citizen of the Year
Council members are Rich Hobbs, Lore Wolfe and Rich Flauding. Meetings are the second Thursday of each month in town hall at 7 p.m.
Councilwoman Lore Wolf would like to spend some of town’s rainy day fund on sidewalks, saying during the Thursday, May 12, 2011, meeting that so many of the town's sidewalks are in disrepair.
She said that in some areas the road is higher than the sidewalk and dirt has come down on them. Grass is growing in the cracks and others are just broken.
Treasurer Renee Sills said the town does have a 50-50 policy where the town pays for half the cost.
Councilman Rich Hobbs said it wasn’t the town’s responsibility to improve a homeowner’s property.
Town attorney Greg Hockemeyer argued that the sidewalks were in the public right-of-way.
The town plans to abide by state laws regarding golf carts. They should be driven by licensed drivers.
The snowplowing bid, approved last month, was recinded because it did not adhere to specificiations. The item was tabled.
The town clean up will be in June.
Two bids were opened for street repair. Niblock Excavating and Asphalt, Columbia City, submitted a bid of $24,484.50 and Phend and Brown’s bid was $36,300.
And ordinance regarding inspection of rental properties was approved
The town is taking nominations for Citizen of the Year
Council members are Rich Hobbs, Lore Wolfe and Rich Flauding. Meetings are the second Thursday of each month in town hall at 7 p.m.
Coffee Time: Do you think recent Indiana Supreme Court ruling could lead to abuse by some in law enforcement?
Whitley County resident and State Senator Jim Banks has some concerns about a recent State Supreme Court ruling that could potentially allow law enforcement officials to enter residents' homes in cases of domestic violence -- specifically whether the law violates the Fourth Amendment and whether it could lead to abuse by some law enforcement officials. Click here to read Banks' latest installment of Coffee Time... and feel free to share your own opinion on the matter by sending a letter to the editor to jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com
Whitley County native Laura Hoffman honored for volunteerism to Iowa's American Lung Association
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Laura Hoffman, at center above, was recently awarded the Iowa American Lung Association's 2011 Volunteer Award. A Whitley County native, she is an osteopathic medicine student at Des Moines University and plans to practice family medicine. Standing above with Hoffman is Connie Perry, board chairman for Iowa's American Lung Association, and Harold Wimmer, president and CEO of the American Lung Association in Iowa.
By Kendall Dillon
The American Lung Association in Iowa has presented its 2011 Volunteer Award to Laura Hoffman, an osteopathic medicine student at Des Moines University, in recognition of her commitment to see people live tobacco-free. Hoffman is the daughter of Linda and Robert Hoffman of Columbia City.
Hoffman has been a volunteer with the American Lung Association's local tobacco prevention arm, the Central Iowa Tobacco-free Partnership, since 2009. She first helped the organization survey and assess convenience stores to identify what tobacco products were being sold and highly marketed in the area. She also has helped at the chapter's smoke-free night events at Iowa Cubs baseball games and at Drake University in Des Moines. In addition, she helped at many car safety seat checks, where she educated parents about the dangers of smoking around children and asked them to sign a pledge to be smoke-free.
"Laura is very passionate about tobacco prevention, education and cessation," says Micki Sandquist, executive director of ALA's Iowa chapter. "We know her time is limited as she is an excellent medical student, so we value all the time she spends with us."
Hoffman was offered and turned down her first cigarette at summer camp at age 8. She decided to volunteer for the American Lung Association after Lori Mein, a registered nurse and co-chair of the Central Iowa Tobacco-free Partnership, gave a lecture to her preventive medicine class at DMU.
"My mom quit smoking when I was in my early teens and I admired her so much for doing that, because I know it's very difficult," Hoffman says. "I have always been passionate about smoking cessation."
Hoffman became interested in medicine as a high school volunteer at a free health and dental clinic in Fort Wayne.
Now in her fourth year of medical rotations, she plans to practice in family medicine.
Nominees sought for 2011 Heart of Gold Awards
Continuing a sixteen year tradition, the Whitley County Community Foundation will host the annual Heart of Gold Awards in celebration of the people in our community who give of themselves to make life a little better for others.
Whitley County is a great place to live and work thanks to the many thoughtful people who call it home. Your neighbors, friends and co-workers may be among those who deserve to be recognized. Any person living in Whitley County, regardless of age, who enhances another’s life is eligible to be nominated.
Whitley County residents may nominate someone for a Heart of Gold Award simply by filling out a nomination form which can be found at businesses throughout the community, public libraries or at the Whitley County Community Foundation. People who have been nominated in years past are eligible for nomination again in 2011, as long as they are recognized for a different act of kindness. Friday, July 15, 2011, is the deadline for submitting the nomination forms to the Whitley County Community Foundation.
This is not an essay contest, and anyone needing assistance to fill out a nomination form should contact the Community Foundation at 244-5224. Excerpts from actual nomination forms may be reprinted in local newspapers and should be suitable for sharing with the public.
All nominees will receive a heart-shaped medallion inscribed with their name. Three overall winners will each have the opportunity to direct a $1,000 grant to the Whitley County charity or service organization of his/her choice, which works to enhance our community.
When considering overall winners, the Heart of Gold Committee will take into account whether the nominee identified a need and filled it; recognized an opportunity and acted upon it; shared his/her time and energy for the sake of others; overcame unusual challenges to serve others; rendered a service which changed a life; worked to create positive change; inspired others to volunteer; or performed an exceptional act of kindness.
A festive reception honoring nominees and revealing the identity of their nominators will take place on Thursday evening, August 11 at Indian Springs Middle School in Columbia City.
Whitley County is a great place to live and work thanks to the many thoughtful people who call it home. Your neighbors, friends and co-workers may be among those who deserve to be recognized. Any person living in Whitley County, regardless of age, who enhances another’s life is eligible to be nominated.
Whitley County residents may nominate someone for a Heart of Gold Award simply by filling out a nomination form which can be found at businesses throughout the community, public libraries or at the Whitley County Community Foundation. People who have been nominated in years past are eligible for nomination again in 2011, as long as they are recognized for a different act of kindness. Friday, July 15, 2011, is the deadline for submitting the nomination forms to the Whitley County Community Foundation.
This is not an essay contest, and anyone needing assistance to fill out a nomination form should contact the Community Foundation at 244-5224. Excerpts from actual nomination forms may be reprinted in local newspapers and should be suitable for sharing with the public.
All nominees will receive a heart-shaped medallion inscribed with their name. Three overall winners will each have the opportunity to direct a $1,000 grant to the Whitley County charity or service organization of his/her choice, which works to enhance our community.
When considering overall winners, the Heart of Gold Committee will take into account whether the nominee identified a need and filled it; recognized an opportunity and acted upon it; shared his/her time and energy for the sake of others; overcame unusual challenges to serve others; rendered a service which changed a life; worked to create positive change; inspired others to volunteer; or performed an exceptional act of kindness.
A festive reception honoring nominees and revealing the identity of their nominators will take place on Thursday evening, August 11 at Indian Springs Middle School in Columbia City.
Snapshots: 2011 CCHS Honors Convocation academic awards
May 25, 2011
Snapshots: 2011 CCHS Honors Convocation athletic awards
Scholarships and awards top $100,000 at annual CCHS Honors Convocation Monday night
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, after learning she was the recipient of the Tina Parker Memorial Honor Tray, Maddie Hinen receives a hug from her coach and her mom, Trish Hinen. Her other coaches Katie Myers and Amy Shearer stand nearby and join in the recognition. Below, members of the Columbia City High School academic teams were presented with certificates during the annual Honors Convocation in the Newell Rice Auditorium.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
An estimated $100,000 in scholarships were awarded Monday night at Columbia City High School, all part of the 2011 Honors Convocation.
A night of celebrating achievement and personal bests, the event was held in the Newell Rice Auditorium, packed with proud parents, nervous teens and excited onlookers ready to join in the cheers as each student received their honor.
The Awards & Recognition
The class valedictorian Alexandria Dryer and salutatorian May Cheng were recognized and each were presented with the Rely and Izora Zumbrun Memorial Scholarships valued at $2,000 each.
The Class of 2011's top ten achievers, all young women, included Alexandria Dryer, May Cheng, Tori Farber, Nicole Yingst, Renee Menzie, Jessica Bickle, Linda Hershman, Deanna Beckner, Laken Lefever and Madison Sjahfiedin.
Lee Daniel Awards, an award presented in memory of Lee Daniel, were presented to the top two students in each grade level, including Alexandria Dryer, May Cheng, Jenee Schneider, Michaela Thomas, Richelle Menzie, Emily Lewis and Corrine Kauffman (tie), Michaela Wolf and Nicole Karrer.
The Shinzo Ohki Scholarship, worth $100 per year for four years, was awarded to Tori Farber.
The Kenny Simon Award, presented through the Whitley County Community Foundation and worth $250, was presented to Benjamin Murphy.
The Historian of the Year award was presented to Michaela Thomas.
The Hazel Munns and Joseph and Irene Shull Music award was presented to Jacob Swain.
The Tri Kappa Alpha Iota Scholarship was awarded to Linda Hershman.
The Joseph and Irene Shull Scholarships, worth $1000 each, were presented to Tori Farber and Katie Stetzel.
The Mary Hallowell Honor Roll Academic Scholarships, worth $500 each, were awarded to Olivia Western and Austin Andreas.
The United States Marine Corps Distinguished Athlete Award was presented to Laken Lefever and Logan Rehrer. 
The United States Marine Corps Semper Fidelis Award was presented to Tyler Sheets and Nicole Yingst.
The United States Marine Corps Scholastic Excellence Award was given to Jessica Bickle and Clinton Zorger.
Several Janice M Hammer Academic Team Scholarships were awarded, to recipients including Natalie Angel, Deanna Beckner, Megan Bolinger, Ashley Cornwell, Alexandria Dryer, Emma Pattee, Elizabeth Peterson, Alyssa Reynolds, Rachael Rosfeld, Jacob Swain, Olivia Western and Nicole Yingst.
The National Honor Society Service Scholarships were awarded to Tori Farber and Linda Hershman.
The Family & Consumer Science Award was given to McKenzie Aldrich.
Recipients of the Family, Career & Community Leaders of America Awards included: Sarah Fahl, Megan Goldwood, Brandon Jones, Marissa Morrow, Alyssa Platt, Marley Rose, Nicole Singer and Makayla Wakeman.
The Leadership Whitley County Youth Participant Scholarship for Columbia City High School was awarded to Samara Qureshi.
The HANDS Foundation Member Award was given to Ian Baker Rooda.
The HANDS Foundation Scholarship Award was presented to Megan Bolinger.
The Student Council Excellence Scholarship, worth $750, was awarded to Tori Farber.
The Whitley County Teacher's Association Scholarship was awarded to Nicole Yingst.
The Columbia City Rotary Awards, worth $100 each, were awarded to Jessica Bickel, Isabel Wilson and May Cheng for Spanish, Katie Stetzel for French and Alisha Turnbow for Drafting.
The Columbia City Rotary Scholarships, worth $5000 each, were awarded to Megan Bolinger, May Cheng and Linda Hershman.
The Kiwanis Indiana Foundation Scholarship was awarded to Linda Hershman. The award was worth $1000.
The Dan Mullett "For the Love of a Child" Scholarship was awarded to Heather McCain. This year marks the tenth year since long time Whitley County educator Dan Mullett died unexpectedly. The award has been given annually in his name ever since.
The Kenny Beck "Changes in Latitude" Scholarship was awarded to Nick Harmes. Beck's widow, Judy Beck, presented the award in memory of her husband saying he would be exceedingly proud that this year's recipient will use the $5000 scholarship to attend Purdue University. Beck, a teacher at the former Washington Elementary School, was killed September 11, 2002, as he tried to help a stranger in the midst of a domestic violence situation. This year's graduating class would have been the last class of students who were taught by Beck.
The Columbia City High School Alumni Association Scholarship, given in memory of past president Robert E. Brittain, were awarded to Maddie Hinen and Laken Lefever.
The Ernest Heimbach Award was presented to Alexandria Dryer.
The Eric Reed Memorial Scholarship was presented to Alan Murphy.
The Science Olympiad Awards were presented to Madison Sjahfiedin, Alisha Turnbow, Chelsey Sims, Jessica Bickle, Samantha Alberding, Joshua Trabert, Graham Roman, Daniel Gater, Erica Nicodemus, Sara Simpkins, Alissa Sturtevant, Alexis Taylor, Rachel Woolard, Adam Bernhard, Jessica Klemm, Aakash Patel and Amanda Ewert.
The Outstanding Senior Science Olympiad award was presented to Madison Sjahfiedin.
The Steven K. Raypole Memorial Art Award was presented to Alexandra Zoltek.
The Nick Linvill Memorial Speech Awards were presented to May Cheng and Linda Hershman.
The Bertha Thornburg Memorial Speech Award was presented to Alexandria Dryer.
The Paul E. Riddick Memorial Debate Award, one of the oldest awards presented at CCHS, was presented to Austin Andreas.
The Robert E. Brittain Mental Attitude Award was presented to Hannah Clark and Dakota Wappes.
The Todd Jagger Memorial Scholarship was presented to Justin Trigg.
The 4-H Foundation Scholarship was awarded to Olivia Western. The scholarship is valued at $250.
The Monsanto & National Association of Farm Broadcasting's Commitment to Agriculture Scholarship was awarded to Ellen Bernhard.
The Natalie Mason Mullins Scholarships were awarded to Austin Andreas, Megan Bolinger, May Cheng, Samantha Engle, Linda Hershman, Anna O'Dell and Nicole Yingst.
The Tiffany Parker Scholarship was awarded to Samantha Engle.
The Lawrence and Freida Bunnell Memorial Scholarships were presented to Erica Spade, Tori Farber, May Cheng, Megan Bolinger and Linda Hershman.
The Howard and Mimi Wherry Scholarships were awarded to Erica Spade, May Cheng and Linda Hershman.
The Robert Hood Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Alan Murphy.
The Joey Devito Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Maddie Hinen.
The Science & Regulatory Consultants Scholarship was presented to Clayton VerBerkmoes.
The Whitley County Retired Teachers Scholarship was awarded to Jessica Bickle.
The Whitley County Korean War Veterans Memorial Scholarship was presented to Laken Lefever.
The Whitley County Art Guild's Anne Hamilton Scholarship was awarded to Alexandra Zoltek.
The Margaret "Margo" Kaler Langohr Art Scholarship was awarded to Alexandra Zoltek.
The JAKES Scholarship was presented to Nick Harmes.
The Steel Dynamics Industrial Scholarship was presented to Megan Clark.
The Indiana Elks Association Scholarship was awarded to Tori Farber.
The Burger King Scholarship was presented to Jared Lynch.
The Haupert Financial Services Scholarship was awarded to Brittany West.
The Columbia City High School Senior Survey Award was given to Matthew Willis.
The Betsy Jane Gates Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Tori Farber.
The Lilly Endowment Community Scholar award was presented to Trevor Maggart.
The Lilly Endowment Finalist Award was given to Renee Menzie.
The Harold "Potch" Wheeler Scholarship was presented to Nick Harmes.
Whitley County Junior Miss scholarships were awarded to: Katie Stetzel, Olivia Western, Nicole Yingst, Ellen Bernhard, Jamie Hiss and Jessica Davis.
College Scholarships
The Ball State University Scholarship was presented to Amanda Sparkman.
The Bethel College Presidential Scholarship was presented to Lauren Shively.
The Cedarville University Grant was presented to Jessica Nierman.
The Grace College Award was presented to Jessica Davis and Heather McCain.
The Grace College Grant was awarded to Heather McCain.
The Indiana State University Academic Achievement Scholarship was awarded to Megan Clark.
The Indiana State University Academic Distinction Scholarship and ISU Laptop Award were presented to Jacob Swain.
The Indiana Tech Engineering and Computer Science Award was presented to Jamie Hiss.
The Indiana Tech Scholarship was awarded to Daniel Faulkner.
The Indiana Tech Men's Track and Field and Cross Country Awards were presented to David Potter.
The Indiana University - Bloomington - IU Excellence Scholarship was presented to May Cheng.
The Indiana University - Bloomington - IU Prestige Scholarship was presented to Austin Andreas.
The Indiana Wesleyan University Academic, Instrumental, Vocal & Chorale Scholarship was awarded to Alan Murphy.
The Manchester College Trustee and Connections scholarships as well as the CC Church of the Brethren Matching Scholarship was presented to Deanna Beckner.
The Purdue University Herbert & Grayce Reese Scholarship was awarded to Travis Johnson.
The Saint Mary's Dean's Scholarship was presented to Megan Bolinger.
The Toccoa Falls College Scholarship was awarded to Jordan Chapple.
The Trine University Annual Dean's Scholarship was presented to Austin Fearnow, Austin Funk and Justin Trigg.
The Trine University Annual Project Lead the Way Award was presented to Austin Fearnow and Justin Trigg.
The Trine University Annual University Scholarship was awarded to Kayla Dunn.
The Trine University Annual Discovery Scholarship was presented to Taylor Whitacre.
The University of Evansville's Dean's & James H. Hawker scholarships were awarded to Alexandria Dryer.
The University of Indianapolis Dean's Scholar award was presented to Devin Rice.
The University of Indianapolis US Senator Richard G. Lugar Award of Academic Distinction was awarded to Corinna Raypole.
The University of Saint Francis Presidential Scholarship was presented to Rachel Hazelet.
The Uninversity of Texas at Dalla Chess II Scholarship was awarded to Daniel Gater.
The Valparaiso University Presidential Scholarship was presented to Emma Pattee.
Sports Awards
The Tom Ness Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Trevor Maggart.
The Eleanor Gall Cheerleading Award was presented to Brooke Johnson.
The Devol Awards were presented as follows:
- Cross Country - Trevor Maggart
- Football - Logan Rehrer
- Tennis - Alan Murphy
- Soccer - Tyler Peterson
- Wrestling - Bryce Forrester
- Basketball - Ben Murphy
- Swimming - Kyle Mertz
- Baseball - Connor Slavich
- Track - Trevor Maggart
- Golf - Drew Burnsworth
The Tina Parker Memorial Awards were presented as follows:
- Cross Country - Renee Menzie
- Volleyball - Madison Sjahfiedin
- Golf - Rachel Hazelet
- Soccer - Jessica Bickle
- Basketball - Kayla Dunn
- Swimming - Anneke Van Straten
- Softball - Cassandra Vodde
- Track - Corinna Raypole
- Tennis - Isabel Wilson
Senior Honor Blankets were awarded to Kayla Dunn, Samantha Engle, Maddie Hinen, Brooke Johnson, Laken Lefever, Renee Menzie, Corinna Raypole, Trenton Barnett, Trevor Maggart, Jacob Moser and Logan Rehrer.
The Tina Parker Memorial Honor Tray was awarded to Maddie Hinen.
The Honor Blanket was awarded to Logan Rehrer.
Additional photos from the 2011 Honors Convocation will be on Talk of the Town later today.
May 24, 2011
Don Davis named grand marshal of annual Loon Lake Independence Day boat parade
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Don Davis, at center above, was selected as the first-ever grand marshal of the annual Loon Lake Independence Day boat parade. From left above is Davis' wife, Nancy, grandson Ian Wakley and daughter Suzanne Wakley. The boat parade has been a tradition at the lake for many years.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
On Saturday morning, a long-time supporter of the Loon Lake community was recognized for years of service with a newly designated honor.
The Loon Lake Property Owners Association chose Don Davis as the first-ever grand marshal of the annual Independence Day Boat Parade on Loon Lake, slated for Saturday, July 2, at 4 p.m. At that time, Davis will lead an entourage of decorated boats around the lake and parade watchers will have an opportunity to pick their favorites and call in their votes.
The parade is one of several activities going on at the lake that day, including a 5.5K race around the lake, pancake and sausage breakfast, sailboat race and fireworks show in the evening.
Davis was appointed as a board member of the LLPOA in 1991 and has faithfully served the board many times over the years. He was elected board vice president from 1992 to 1994 and served as board president from 1997 to 1999.
Davis has personally spearheaded numerous initiatives in the lake community over the years, many of which are continued today.
After learning that the lake's water quality was fading fast, Davis began research into a public sewer project for lake residents. The sewer project was completed in 2001, ending years of septic leaching into the lake and making fast improvement in the lake's health.
Davis also worked with the Whitley County Community Foundation to begin a Loon Lake Conservation Fund, an endowment fund built and dedicated to future lake enhancement projects, including the construction of sediment ponds to help filter the lake.
Understanding the benefits of non-profit status, Davis was instrumental in achieving 501c3 tax status for the LLPOA, which not only aided the scope of projects the organization could participate in, but it was also key in furthering lake enhancement initiatives.
A lake resident for many years, Davis was also keenly aware of the importance of making lake life fun and enjoyable for children -- even children who don't live at the lake. For that reason, he founded the lake's first Kids Fishing contest, an event that has evolved into an annual event. Davis donated a rod and reel for participating children the first year.
He has been lauded for spearheading numerous other fundraising and activities that have enhanced life in the Loon Lake community.
Salvation Army hopes to help families get crazy with coupons
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The Salvation Army of Whitley County hopes to help families get on track with their budgets and make the most of shopping -- through the use of coupons.
According to program director Pat Mossburg, the first-ever Angel Clippers coupon class will held at Eagle Quest Church on Monday, June 6, 2011, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Attendees are urged to bring coupons they'd like to use and, if possible, have copies of the coupon policies for stores you frequent.
"We will discuss tips, ideas, suggestions and mostly fellowship," Mossburg stated. "It's our goal to not only help ourselves save money... but to help others too."
To attend the coupon class, RSVP by contacting Pat Mossburg at 248-1711.
The Salvation Army of Whitley County hopes to help families get on track with their budgets and make the most of shopping -- through the use of coupons.
According to program director Pat Mossburg, the first-ever Angel Clippers coupon class will held at Eagle Quest Church on Monday, June 6, 2011, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Attendees are urged to bring coupons they'd like to use and, if possible, have copies of the coupon policies for stores you frequent.
"We will discuss tips, ideas, suggestions and mostly fellowship," Mossburg stated. "It's our goal to not only help ourselves save money... but to help others too."
To attend the coupon class, RSVP by contacting Pat Mossburg at 248-1711.
Travel raffle for Junior Achievement now underway
Junior Achievement serving Whitley County is offering you a chance to pack your bags & get out of town.
Odyssey Travel in Columbia City has donated a $1254 travel voucher for a raffle that will help raise funds for JA of Whitley County. The lucky winner will be able to apply the voucher toward airfare, railway tickets, cruise, travel packages or a special get away.
Tickets are $10 each or 3 for $25 and only 400 tickets will be sold. Tickets are on sale now thru May 30, 2011. The winning ticket will be drawn on June 1.
Proceeds from this raffle help fund the JA programs in all three Whitley County school systems. JA programs teach financial literacy and work readiness skills to over 2,000 students. Help support this worthy cause as our three superintendents have done with their purchases.
The following individuals on the Whitley County JA board are selling tickets for the raffle:
Gene Donaghy of NEREMC; Dick Buchanan of Star Bank; Jacie Worrick of J&J Insurance; Linda Hyndman of Pro Fed Credit Union; Jerry Gerrado of Orizon Real Estate; Tim Conley of Reelcraft; Scott Duffitt of Starr CPA; Zach Beard of Micro Pulse; Kathy Sauers of Three Rivers Federal Credit Union; George Roth of JA NE Indiana and Julie Copeland of Superior Essex.
Tickets are also available at the following locations:
Three Rivers Federal Credit Union in Columbia City
Churubusco Elementary School Office – Leann Arrowsmith
South Whitley residents can call George Roth at 229-2418
Tickets will be available for purchase at the Whitley County Farmers Market in downtown Columbia City on May 28 if they are not sold out by then.
Odyssey Travel in Columbia City has donated a $1254 travel voucher for a raffle that will help raise funds for JA of Whitley County. The lucky winner will be able to apply the voucher toward airfare, railway tickets, cruise, travel packages or a special get away.
Tickets are $10 each or 3 for $25 and only 400 tickets will be sold. Tickets are on sale now thru May 30, 2011. The winning ticket will be drawn on June 1.
Proceeds from this raffle help fund the JA programs in all three Whitley County school systems. JA programs teach financial literacy and work readiness skills to over 2,000 students. Help support this worthy cause as our three superintendents have done with their purchases.
The following individuals on the Whitley County JA board are selling tickets for the raffle:
Gene Donaghy of NEREMC; Dick Buchanan of Star Bank; Jacie Worrick of J&J Insurance; Linda Hyndman of Pro Fed Credit Union; Jerry Gerrado of Orizon Real Estate; Tim Conley of Reelcraft; Scott Duffitt of Starr CPA; Zach Beard of Micro Pulse; Kathy Sauers of Three Rivers Federal Credit Union; George Roth of JA NE Indiana and Julie Copeland of Superior Essex.
Tickets are also available at the following locations:
Three Rivers Federal Credit Union in Columbia City
Churubusco Elementary School Office – Leann Arrowsmith
South Whitley residents can call George Roth at 229-2418
Tickets will be available for purchase at the Whitley County Farmers Market in downtown Columbia City on May 28 if they are not sold out by then.
Whitley County Democrats hosting June breakfast
The Whitley County Democratic Party's June breakfast will be held Saturday, June 4, 2011, at the CC Deli, across from the courthouse, beginning at 9 a.m.
Several candidates will be speaking that morning.
The cost to attend is $5 per person which includes breakfast. Please RSVP to rhgalotter@mchsi.com or call 248-2437.
Several candidates will be speaking that morning.
The cost to attend is $5 per person which includes breakfast. Please RSVP to rhgalotter@mchsi.com or call 248-2437.
May 23, 2011
Four local children named regional winners in the 2011 PBS Kids GO! Young Writers Contest
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Below, clockwise from upper left, Audrey Hill, Cameron Jagger, Natalee Hochstetler and Gabrielle Laursen were named as winners of the Regional PBS Kids GO! Young Writers Contest.
By Mark Ryan
Regional winners of the 2011 PBS Kids GO! Young Writers Contest were announced this afternoon by WFWA, PBS 39 in Fort Wayne -- including several youths from Whitley County.
Local winners include Natalee Hochstetler, Cameron Jagger, Gabrielle Laursen and Audrey Hill.
This is not the first time for Whitley County writers to win the contest, but the first time for several Whitley County winners to be recognized. 
The young author/illustrators artists eligible for this annual contest competed by grade level -- kindergarten, first grade, second grade and third grade - at their local libraries or branch libraries or through their elementary school classrooms. The entries were then judged at those locations, and the top three in each category at each library or classroom were sent along to PBS39 for judging at the regional level.
In years past, the first place entries from regional competition would have been sent on to PBS and judged as part of a nationwide competition. Due to a lack of underwriting at the national level, regional competitions are now the end of the line for entrants in this contest for 2011; PBS has not announced if underwriting has been found to re-open this competition on a national basis, however as recent as April 2011, sources stated they would still support local stations willing to conduct this contest and competition in their home regions.
In the PBS39 region (northeast Indiana , northwest Ohio , parts of southern Michigan ), estimates put children who participated in this year’s contest between 500 and 600 students total. 18 area libraries from northeast Indiana competed, as did classrooms from two schools. In addition, the PBS39 region’s contest was underwritten for 2011 through a grant from the Lincoln National Foundation.
On Thursday, May 19, the stories sent in to PBS39 were opened, read and judged. The prize-winning entries are as follows, listed by category, place, writer/illustrator, hometown, story title (in italics) and sponsoring library or school.
The 2011 Regional winners are:
Kindergarten
First Place: Maggie Nussbaum, “Bob The Frog” - South Adams Elementary School , Berne , Indiana
Second Place: Natalee Hochstetler, “Mystery Of The Missing Family” - Peabody Public Library, Columbia City , Indiana
Third Place: Kayden Ptak, “One Sunny Day” - Willowbrook Day School , Fort Wayne , Indiana
First Grade
First Place: Vivian O’Dell, “Pinkie’s Easter Egg Hunt” - South Adams Elementary School , Berne , Indiana
Second Place: Raina Fleischer, “The Big Blizzard” - Willowbrook Day School , Fort Wayne , Indiana
Third Place: Ella Neuenschwander, “The Run Away Junior” - South Adams Elementary School , Berne , Indiana
Second Grade
First Place: Cameron Jagger, “The First Adventure of Charlie Hassle” - Peabody Public Library, Columbia City , Indiana
Second Place: Gabrielle Laursen, “The Lion And The Giraffe” - Peabody Public Library, Columbia City , Indiana
Third Place: Kellas Ide, “Juda and King Lion” - Willowbrook Day School , Fort Wayne , Indiana
Third Grade
First Place: Audrey Hill, “Leah’s Ride” - Peabody Public Library, Columbia City , Indiana
Second Place: Vivian Colpaert, “Das Rot” - South Adams Elementary School , Berne , Indiana
Third Place: Hannah Rhoades, “Many, Many Monkies” - South Adams Elementary School , Berne , Indiana
Winners and their families have been invited to a special “Winners’ Celebration” to be held at PBS39 on Tuesday, May 31, 2011. There, they will be presented with a special certificate, prize package and have their photos taken to be included as part of an online & on-air presentation of their stories throughout the summer of 2011. In addition, the winning stories in each category will be readied for viewing on PBS39’s website — www.wfwa.org — within a week’s time.
PBS39 Fort Wayne has conducted this contest annually, from its early days as the “Reading Rainbow Young Writers & Illustrators Contest” to its current iteration as the “PBS Kids GO! Young Writers Contest” as part of its mission of extending the educational benefits of its children’s programming, literacy and learning efforts beyond the TV screen.
Columbia City's annual spring cleanup set for June 11 (west), June 18 (east)
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
It won't be long until piles of unwanted items begin stacking up at the end of driveways and in alleys across Columbia City.
A little later this year than usual, the annual Columbia City Trash Pick Up will begin for the west half of the city on June 11, 2011, and continue on the east half on June 18. Certain items will be removed the week of June 20.
The division line for the city is Main Street (SR 9). Residents on the west half of the city are asked to have their items at the curb or alley by 6 a.m. on Saturday, June 11. Neighborhoods included in the west half of the city are: Heritage Place/Chesapeake Landing, Wilkswood, Wood Dale, Deer Chase and etc. that are within city limits.
Residents on the east half of the city are asked to have their items ready for disposal at 6 a.m. on Saturday, June 18. Neighborhoods on the east half of the city include: Eagle Glen, Irish Glen, Countryside Mobile Home Park and any off of Hanna Street that are within city limits.
Trash pickup for your neighborhood is a one day only event -- there will be no return trips made.
Certain items require payment in advance in order to be removed. These items must be paid for by June 16 and will be picked up during the week of June 20.
1. Car and small truck tires -- tire only, a $1.00 fee per tire, tire w/rim $5.00
2. Larger tires -- $5 fee per tire.
3. Tractor tires -- $15
4. Stoves, washers, dryers, hot water heaters, dish washers -- $5 fee each
5. Refrigerators, air conditioners, freezers, appliances with freon -- $10
Advance payment is required for the items above. You will be given a receipt and your name and address will be put on a list. You are asked to keep the receipt for proof of payment and if there are questions, you may be asked to show proof of payment. There will be no refunds.
Car batteries will be picked up at no charge, but you will need to contact City Hall and provide your address for pick up. Please call 248-5100 to be put on list.
Paint cans opened and dried will be picked up, but containers with paint in them will be left at the curb for the property owner to dispose of if the paint is not dried.
For more information on the city-wide spring cleanup, contact Kelly Cearbaugh at 248-5131 or Jeff Walker at 248-5114.
It won't be long until piles of unwanted items begin stacking up at the end of driveways and in alleys across Columbia City.
A little later this year than usual, the annual Columbia City Trash Pick Up will begin for the west half of the city on June 11, 2011, and continue on the east half on June 18. Certain items will be removed the week of June 20.
The division line for the city is Main Street (SR 9). Residents on the west half of the city are asked to have their items at the curb or alley by 6 a.m. on Saturday, June 11. Neighborhoods included in the west half of the city are: Heritage Place/Chesapeake Landing, Wilkswood, Wood Dale, Deer Chase and etc. that are within city limits.
Residents on the east half of the city are asked to have their items ready for disposal at 6 a.m. on Saturday, June 18. Neighborhoods on the east half of the city include: Eagle Glen, Irish Glen, Countryside Mobile Home Park and any off of Hanna Street that are within city limits.
Trash pickup for your neighborhood is a one day only event -- there will be no return trips made.
Certain items require payment in advance in order to be removed. These items must be paid for by June 16 and will be picked up during the week of June 20.
1. Car and small truck tires -- tire only, a $1.00 fee per tire, tire w/rim $5.00
2. Larger tires -- $5 fee per tire.
3. Tractor tires -- $15
4. Stoves, washers, dryers, hot water heaters, dish washers -- $5 fee each
5. Refrigerators, air conditioners, freezers, appliances with freon -- $10
Advance payment is required for the items above. You will be given a receipt and your name and address will be put on a list. You are asked to keep the receipt for proof of payment and if there are questions, you may be asked to show proof of payment. There will be no refunds.
Car batteries will be picked up at no charge, but you will need to contact City Hall and provide your address for pick up. Please call 248-5100 to be put on list.
Paint cans opened and dried will be picked up, but containers with paint in them will be left at the curb for the property owner to dispose of if the paint is not dried.
For more information on the city-wide spring cleanup, contact Kelly Cearbaugh at 248-5131 or Jeff Walker at 248-5114.
Life-changing event 33 years ago brings about launch of custom prosthetics company in Columbia City
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Kent Turnbow, below, owner of Turnbow Prosthetics LLC, recently opened a custom prosthetics company in Columbia City, specializing in upper and lower limbs to aid in mobility for amputees.
By Mary Popovich
A certified prosthetist with more than 20 years of experience in helping area amputees has opened a practice in Columbia City. Kent Turnbow, CP, is president and founder of Turnbow Prosthetics, LLC. The new business is located at 561 West Connexion Way, Suite 2, on the north side of U.S 30 just west of Columbia City.
Turnbow’s business specializes in prosthetics for upper and lower limbs, helping people become mobile again after they have lost a limb.
“At Turnbow Prosthetics our philosophy is based upon our mission to help amputees move forward in the process of ‘Reclaiming Their Lives’ by restoring mobility and function,” Turnbow said. “Our goal is to serve amputees in a comfortable environment and in a timely fashion. We focus on personal attention, and attention to detail, in order to achieve a fit that is right for each patient.”
Turnbow Prosthetics works with individuals of all ages and activity levels with lower and upper limb amputations, including: elderly individuals with peripheral vascular disease; cancer and trauma victims; and infants and children with congenital abnormalities involving missing or malformed limbs. After patients are referred to Turnbow, he evaluates and measures them, then designs a prosthesis that fits their lifestyle and activity level. Based on a cast made for each individual patient, he begins by developing, testing and modifying clear plastic socket models until he gets just the right fit. The final socket is then created and combined with additional components for a customized prosthesis designed for the individual patient’s activity level and lifestyle.
After graduating from Homestead High School in Fort Wayne in 1981, he studied chemistry and biology at Hanover College, and continued with his prosthetics training at the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA). Upon graduation, he then completed his internship at the Institute for the Advancement of Prosthetics in Lansing, Michigan, to become a Certified Prosthetist (CP).
Turnbow started his career in North Carolina, and then moved back to Fort Wayne in 1989, where he worked for and eventually served as manager of an artificial limb company for several years before starting and operating another prosthetics company in Fort Wayne for six years. He left there in 2008 to join another facility until recently opening his new business in 2011.
Turnbow consulted with Alan Tio from the Whitley County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and Scot Goskowicz from the Northeast Indiana Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in preparation for starting his new business.
“The SBDC has been very helpful and I highly recommend that people see them,” he said.
Turnbow also attended a FastTrac course for entrepreneurs last year at the Whitley County EDC that he found to be “invaluable and one of the best courses to lay the foundation for” his new business.
“The course helped start my business in a very positive way and provided a great network of support,” he said. Turnbow continues to obtain business coaching and ongoing support from both the SBDC and the EDC.
Turnbow Prosthetics is accepting new patients, with appointments available by calling 244-0099. The company is a Medicare provider that works with insurance companies to ensure the best option for patients served.
By Mary Popovich
A certified prosthetist with more than 20 years of experience in helping area amputees has opened a practice in Columbia City. Kent Turnbow, CP, is president and founder of Turnbow Prosthetics, LLC. The new business is located at 561 West Connexion Way, Suite 2, on the north side of U.S 30 just west of Columbia City.
Turnbow’s business specializes in prosthetics for upper and lower limbs, helping people become mobile again after they have lost a limb.
“At Turnbow Prosthetics our philosophy is based upon our mission to help amputees move forward in the process of ‘Reclaiming Their Lives’ by restoring mobility and function,” Turnbow said. “Our goal is to serve amputees in a comfortable environment and in a timely fashion. We focus on personal attention, and attention to detail, in order to achieve a fit that is right for each patient.”
Turnbow Prosthetics works with individuals of all ages and activity levels with lower and upper limb amputations, including: elderly individuals with peripheral vascular disease; cancer and trauma victims; and infants and children with congenital abnormalities involving missing or malformed limbs. After patients are referred to Turnbow, he evaluates and measures them, then designs a prosthesis that fits their lifestyle and activity level. Based on a cast made for each individual patient, he begins by developing, testing and modifying clear plastic socket models until he gets just the right fit. The final socket is then created and combined with additional components for a customized prosthesis designed for the individual patient’s activity level and lifestyle.
As an amputee, Turnbow knows and understands prosthetics
Turnbow’s interest in prosthetics dates back to 1977, when at age 14 his leg was crushed during a car accident, resulting in an amputation below the knee and a prosthesis to help him walk. He regularly worked with doctors and prosthetists during his recovery and rehabilitation from the accident, which led him toward his career path.After graduating from Homestead High School in Fort Wayne in 1981, he studied chemistry and biology at Hanover College, and continued with his prosthetics training at the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA). Upon graduation, he then completed his internship at the Institute for the Advancement of Prosthetics in Lansing, Michigan, to become a Certified Prosthetist (CP).
Turnbow started his career in North Carolina, and then moved back to Fort Wayne in 1989, where he worked for and eventually served as manager of an artificial limb company for several years before starting and operating another prosthetics company in Fort Wayne for six years. He left there in 2008 to join another facility until recently opening his new business in 2011.
Turnbow consulted with Alan Tio from the Whitley County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and Scot Goskowicz from the Northeast Indiana Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in preparation for starting his new business.
“The SBDC has been very helpful and I highly recommend that people see them,” he said.
Turnbow also attended a FastTrac course for entrepreneurs last year at the Whitley County EDC that he found to be “invaluable and one of the best courses to lay the foundation for” his new business.
“The course helped start my business in a very positive way and provided a great network of support,” he said. Turnbow continues to obtain business coaching and ongoing support from both the SBDC and the EDC.
Turnbow Prosthetics is accepting new patients, with appointments available by calling 244-0099. The company is a Medicare provider that works with insurance companies to ensure the best option for patients served.
Eubanks is first resident to deed land to the Eel River Trail project
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Kevin Eubanks, above at right, recently presented a deed for a portion of his property to Rod Mitchell, board member of the Friends of the Eel River Trail.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Whitley County resident Kevin Eubanks recently donated a portion of his property to the Friends of the Eel River Trail for use in creating a non-motorized trail across the southern part of the county, someday linking the communities of Columbia City and South Whitley.
Eubanks' gift is the first of its kind, a generous move toward progress in the creation of the proposed Eel River Trail would be a non-motorized walking, running, bicycling, rollerblading and wheelchair trail. The trail would connect to the current Blue River Trail and continue southwest.
The Friends of the Eel River Trail launched their first project last year. The Columbia City Trailhead, which opened last May, is located on South Whitley Street in Columbia City adjacent to the Blue River Trail. The Trailhead currently provides restrooms, park benches, bike racks and drinking water for users of the Blue River Trail and nearby Kenneth Wright City Park, plus visitors to the Columbia City Fire Museum.
For more information, to get involved in the initiative or to make a donation to support the Eel River Trail project, call the Friends of the Eel River Trail president Barry Dupen at 244-1905.
CC Deli's Soups of the Week
The CC Deli will be closed on Monday, May 30, 2011, for Memorial Day and will reopen on Tuesday, May 31.
Soups of the week include:
Monday: Potato Bacon and French Onion*
Tuesday - Chili and Chicken Dumpling
Wednesday - White Chili* and Chicken & Rice
Thursday - Cheesy Potato and Stuffed Pepper
Friday - Veggie Beef* and Broccoli & Cheese
* denotes soups that are gluten free
Soups of the week include:
Monday: Potato Bacon and French Onion*
Tuesday - Chili and Chicken Dumpling
Wednesday - White Chili* and Chicken & Rice
Thursday - Cheesy Potato and Stuffed Pepper
Friday - Veggie Beef* and Broccoli & Cheese
* denotes soups that are gluten free
May 22, 2011
10-year plan will help residents work toward preserving lake for future generations
(Talk of the Town mobile photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Darrell Post, standing above at center, chairman of the Loon Lake Property Owners Association's lake enhancement committee, gives an overview of the newly-created 10 year master plan for lake enhancement and environmental objectives for the 222-acre lake in northern Whitley County. Some projects include management of sediment ponds, proposed plans to remove sediment from certain areas of the lake, installment of buoys in shallow areas to minimize lake bottom disturbance and more.
Local company signs contracts with seven regional businesses
Article provided
The Mako Group, LLC recently signed contracts to partner with seven Indiana, Illinois and Ohio-based businesses.
The Mako Group, LLC will provide information security and IT audit services for Disruptive Health (Warsaw, Indiana), First National Bank of Illinois (Lansing, Illinois) Greenfield Bank (Greenfield, Indiana), Home Bank (Martinsville, Indiana), Miami Savings Bank (Cincinnati, Ohio), RiverHills Bank (Milford, Ohio), and United Fidelity Bank (Evansville, Indiana) . Based in Fort Wayne, The Mako Group, LLC specializes in information security and controls for businesses that carry large amounts of private or proprietary data.
“This is an exciting opportunity to partner with such quality organizations" said CEO David Lefever of Columbia City. “We're accomplishing exactly what we hoped to when we opened our doors earlier last year—providing the highest quality information security and IT audits within a reasonable budget. These engagements are an excellent representation of the trust and deliverables that chief audit executive, Don Smith, and our information security team are providing to the market."
Humane Society of Whitley County receives grant to vaccinate dogs against canine flu
Article provided
The Humane Society of Whitley County, located on South Line Street in Columbia City, now has help in protecting dogs against canine influenza virus (CIV), a highly contagious disease that spreads easily from dog to dog, especially those in close proximity.
The shelter received a grant for the vaccines as part of a Petfinder.com Foundation program to build community immunity against this respiratory infection. The foundation partnered with Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health, a global animal health company and makers of the NOBIVAC(r) Canine Flu H3N8 vaccine, to fund the grant.
Because CIV is relatively new, most dogs have not built up immunity to the disease. Dogs can get the disease by being exposed to those that have it, as well as playing with toys or drinking from bowls used by other dogs. People can also unwittingly spread the germ if they come in contact with infected dogs.
Dog flu is a growing problem throughout the U.S. It has been confirmed in 35 states so far, but tracking the disease is hard because it is so difficult to diagnose. Dogs are contagious before they show any symptoms. By the time the dog starts coughing, it's too late. Virtually all dogs exposed to the virus will become infected, and some will get more serious infections, such as pneumonia, which can be fatal. Dogs that go to doggie daycare, boarding facilities, groomers and shows and are vaccinated for canine cough (Bordetella) are also at risk for canine flu. Information about canine flu is available at www.doginfluenza.com.
The Humane Society of Whitley County, located on South Line Street in Columbia City, now has help in protecting dogs against canine influenza virus (CIV), a highly contagious disease that spreads easily from dog to dog, especially those in close proximity.
The shelter received a grant for the vaccines as part of a Petfinder.com Foundation program to build community immunity against this respiratory infection. The foundation partnered with Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health, a global animal health company and makers of the NOBIVAC(r) Canine Flu H3N8 vaccine, to fund the grant.
Because CIV is relatively new, most dogs have not built up immunity to the disease. Dogs can get the disease by being exposed to those that have it, as well as playing with toys or drinking from bowls used by other dogs. People can also unwittingly spread the germ if they come in contact with infected dogs.
Dog flu is a growing problem throughout the U.S. It has been confirmed in 35 states so far, but tracking the disease is hard because it is so difficult to diagnose. Dogs are contagious before they show any symptoms. By the time the dog starts coughing, it's too late. Virtually all dogs exposed to the virus will become infected, and some will get more serious infections, such as pneumonia, which can be fatal. Dogs that go to doggie daycare, boarding facilities, groomers and shows and are vaccinated for canine cough (Bordetella) are also at risk for canine flu. Information about canine flu is available at www.doginfluenza.com.
May 20, 2011
Libertarian candidate emerges for 2011 Columbia City Mayoral race
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
A third candidate's interest in running for Mayor of Columbia City is a historic item of note -- post-primary election, of course.
On Friday, Scott Wise filed official paperwork with the Whitley County Clerk's office, becoming the first non-Republican, non-Democratic candidate to run for the mayoral seat.
Recently, per election rules, Wise was approved by the Libertarian Party to seek the office. Wise will be the first Libertarian candidate to run for a local-level election in Whitley County.
"It's kind of exciting," said Jessica Hockemeyer, Whitley County voter registration election supervisor, of the prospect of a third candidate in the 2011 November General Election.
After a brief discussion with former county clerks Lisa Rossiter and Cindy Doolittle, current Whitley County Clerk Debbie Beers stated this would be the first time a Libertarian or Independent has possibly ever sought the mayor's seat.
"This is a whole new ballgame for us," Beers said. "It will be really interesting to see what the voters think."
Preparations for a third, local level candidate may require a little more work of the clerk's office, but they have had Libertarian candidates on the ballot for state and federal level elections in the past.
Wise was a former Republican Whitley County Councilman, but denounced his party status to become a Libertarian in 2006 after being defeated in the Republican May primary for re-election to county council. In 2008, he ran as a Republican in the May primary election for the Third District Congressional seat against Mark Souder, but was defeated. Wise ran for Congress again in 2010 as a Libertarian against Republican candidate Marlin Stutzman and Democratic candidate Dr. Tom Hayhurst.
Wise is a 1985 graduate of Westview High School and in 1991 graduated from Indiana University's South Bend campus with a degree in public affairs.
A third candidate's interest in running for Mayor of Columbia City is a historic item of note -- post-primary election, of course.
On Friday, Scott Wise filed official paperwork with the Whitley County Clerk's office, becoming the first non-Republican, non-Democratic candidate to run for the mayoral seat.
Recently, per election rules, Wise was approved by the Libertarian Party to seek the office. Wise will be the first Libertarian candidate to run for a local-level election in Whitley County.
"It's kind of exciting," said Jessica Hockemeyer, Whitley County voter registration election supervisor, of the prospect of a third candidate in the 2011 November General Election.
After a brief discussion with former county clerks Lisa Rossiter and Cindy Doolittle, current Whitley County Clerk Debbie Beers stated this would be the first time a Libertarian or Independent has possibly ever sought the mayor's seat.
"This is a whole new ballgame for us," Beers said. "It will be really interesting to see what the voters think."
Preparations for a third, local level candidate may require a little more work of the clerk's office, but they have had Libertarian candidates on the ballot for state and federal level elections in the past.
Wise was a former Republican Whitley County Councilman, but denounced his party status to become a Libertarian in 2006 after being defeated in the Republican May primary for re-election to county council. In 2008, he ran as a Republican in the May primary election for the Third District Congressional seat against Mark Souder, but was defeated. Wise ran for Congress again in 2010 as a Libertarian against Republican candidate Marlin Stutzman and Democratic candidate Dr. Tom Hayhurst.
Wise is a 1985 graduate of Westview High School and in 1991 graduated from Indiana University's South Bend campus with a degree in public affairs.
Loon Lake's annual spring meeting is Saturday
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The Loon Lake Property Owners Association will host their annual spring meeting this Saturday, May 21, 2011, beginning at 9 a.m. at Tom & Cheri Sawyer's barn, 7900 North Brown Road.
New and long-time residents, alike, are invited to attend. Please bring your own lawn chairs if you can.
During the meeting residents will hear an overview of current like initiatives, including current environmental projects and upcoming events for the Independence Day celebrations in July. Property owners will also have an opportunity to order weed control services for the year as well.
The Loon Lake Property Owners Association will host their annual spring meeting this Saturday, May 21, 2011, beginning at 9 a.m. at Tom & Cheri Sawyer's barn, 7900 North Brown Road.
New and long-time residents, alike, are invited to attend. Please bring your own lawn chairs if you can.
During the meeting residents will hear an overview of current like initiatives, including current environmental projects and upcoming events for the Independence Day celebrations in July. Property owners will also have an opportunity to order weed control services for the year as well.
Tinkham's 5K, breakfast to benefit Camp Whitley
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Camp Whitley opens the gate and welcomes to the community to the annual Tinkham's 5K trail run/walk and pancake breakfast tomorrow, Saturday, May 21, 2011.
All events will be held at the camp, 4305 West Camp Whitley Road, in northern Whitley County.
The fourth annual event opens for registration at 7 a.m. and the run/walk begins at 8 a.m. The entry fee is $20 per person or a $50 maximum fee per family which will include a pancake and sausage breakfast following the run.
Following the race, anyone interested in learning more about the camp is invited to walk around, talk with Camp Whitley staff and board members and learn more about Whitley County's only overnight summer camp -- a camp with more than eight decades of history and fond memories.
For more information on Camp Whitley, visit www.campwhitley.com
Resident concerns result in rewriting of ordinance on skateboarding in South Whitley
By TRSmith of the Tribune-News
From the April 26 South Whitley Town Council meeting to the May 10 meeting, a proposed ordinance banning anyone older than 6-years-old from riding roller- or in-line skates, skateboards, scooters or bicycles in residential areas was significantly changed after citizens expressed concern about the harshness of the first proposal, saying the sidewalks were a safe place for children to play.
Because of their concerns, the council members reworded the ordinance, rewording the ordinance to pertain more to loitering and “A person shall not operate any recreational mobility device on any street, alley, sidewalk, curb, gutter of public right-of-way so as to: obstruct the unimpeded passage of others; endanger the safety of any person; or damage property.”
In the meantime bright yellow signs began to appear in yards reading "We [love] our children. Please drive carefully. Because the town council wants our children to play in the street, not the sidewalk."
A discussion about the situation also commenced on the Internet’s Facebook.
Councilwoman Tonya Warner read a prepared statement at last Tuesday’s meeting, saying the original ordinance was tabled in April because of citizen opposition to its wordage.
“We respectfully listened to those against such an ordinance and decided to table the issue, not because we changed our minds about needing some type of enforcing ordinance, simply because we were willing to be proactive for both sides,” Warner said.
“We all agreed the wordage could be more user-friendly.
“What I don’t understand is what transpired from this point. Before you guys gave us a chance to keep our word you decided to slander us in public by placing signage in your yards, signage on Facebook, accusing us of wanting to endanger the lives of the children in this community.
“For you to accuse us of purposefully endangering the lives of children, I find appalling. I’d like to go on record as saying the intention of this council was never to put the children of South Whitley in harm’s way.
“We were trying to find a workable ordinance so the police would have something to use as enforcement. Unfortunately, not every child out there is respectful of other people’s property.
“We only do the job we do because we care about the future of the children in the community,” Warner said.
Carol Eberly of Carol’s Corner appeared at the meeting asking that the parking situation on the north side of Columbia Street, parallel to her business, be restored to the way it was.
She said people are parking all the way to the alley, including parking over the yellow lines painted on the street to allow access into her parking lot.
Councilman John Dunn said he’d asked her to call the police when there was illegal parking, did she?
“It’s hard for me to go out there and say ‘You parked wrong.’ It just goes against my grain to go out there and call. And I’d just like it back to the way it was or put yellow lines all the way to the alley,” Eberly said.
Dunn asked why she didn’t call the police.
“It’s not going to do me any good or the Brownstone any good to call the police. Imagine if every time you went into the restaurant and the police came in and said ‘you parked illegally.’ ‘Who called?’ ‘Well, Carol called.’”
Utilities manager Dennis Eberhart said maybe the lines went too far west. He would come out and remeasure and repaint, if necessary.
Eberly wanted to know if Columbia Street was the only one that had lines painted on it, and, if so, why.
Councilwoman Tonya Warner said that seemed to be the only street where there was a parking issue.
“I kinda feel I’m being discriminated against,” Eberly said. “I’m still not happy I have to have lines. If I do, why doesn’t Subway, or Moyer’s or Arnold’s?”
“Because we haven’t have any complaints from anybody at that end,” Warner said. “We’ll remeasure it out, but the lines are going to stay because that was the decision we made.”
A letter is being sent to utility customers who are late paying their utility bill. It advises them that services will be disconnected if the bill is not paid in full by the final due date.
Councilwoman Joan Eberhart asked clerk-treasurer Mitch Winger not to have late-paying customers contact council members.
“I thought we were supposed to have them contact you,” Winger said.
Some customers are three or four months behind in payments, Warner noted, and it’s not fair to people who pay on time. A $5 “garbage fee” has already been added to the utility bill to make up shortages by nonpaying customers.
The board extended the repair deadline on the south side of the Green Parrott building for another two weeks – until May 28.
The council meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month.
From the April 26 South Whitley Town Council meeting to the May 10 meeting, a proposed ordinance banning anyone older than 6-years-old from riding roller- or in-line skates, skateboards, scooters or bicycles in residential areas was significantly changed after citizens expressed concern about the harshness of the first proposal, saying the sidewalks were a safe place for children to play.
Because of their concerns, the council members reworded the ordinance, rewording the ordinance to pertain more to loitering and “A person shall not operate any recreational mobility device on any street, alley, sidewalk, curb, gutter of public right-of-way so as to: obstruct the unimpeded passage of others; endanger the safety of any person; or damage property.”
In the meantime bright yellow signs began to appear in yards reading "We [love] our children. Please drive carefully. Because the town council wants our children to play in the street, not the sidewalk."
A discussion about the situation also commenced on the Internet’s Facebook.
Councilwoman Tonya Warner read a prepared statement at last Tuesday’s meeting, saying the original ordinance was tabled in April because of citizen opposition to its wordage.
“We respectfully listened to those against such an ordinance and decided to table the issue, not because we changed our minds about needing some type of enforcing ordinance, simply because we were willing to be proactive for both sides,” Warner said.
“We all agreed the wordage could be more user-friendly.
“What I don’t understand is what transpired from this point. Before you guys gave us a chance to keep our word you decided to slander us in public by placing signage in your yards, signage on Facebook, accusing us of wanting to endanger the lives of the children in this community.
“For you to accuse us of purposefully endangering the lives of children, I find appalling. I’d like to go on record as saying the intention of this council was never to put the children of South Whitley in harm’s way.
“We were trying to find a workable ordinance so the police would have something to use as enforcement. Unfortunately, not every child out there is respectful of other people’s property.
“We only do the job we do because we care about the future of the children in the community,” Warner said.
Carol Eberly of Carol’s Corner appeared at the meeting asking that the parking situation on the north side of Columbia Street, parallel to her business, be restored to the way it was.
She said people are parking all the way to the alley, including parking over the yellow lines painted on the street to allow access into her parking lot.
Councilman John Dunn said he’d asked her to call the police when there was illegal parking, did she?
“It’s hard for me to go out there and say ‘You parked wrong.’ It just goes against my grain to go out there and call. And I’d just like it back to the way it was or put yellow lines all the way to the alley,” Eberly said.
Dunn asked why she didn’t call the police.
“It’s not going to do me any good or the Brownstone any good to call the police. Imagine if every time you went into the restaurant and the police came in and said ‘you parked illegally.’ ‘Who called?’ ‘Well, Carol called.’”
Utilities manager Dennis Eberhart said maybe the lines went too far west. He would come out and remeasure and repaint, if necessary.
Eberly wanted to know if Columbia Street was the only one that had lines painted on it, and, if so, why.
Councilwoman Tonya Warner said that seemed to be the only street where there was a parking issue.
“I kinda feel I’m being discriminated against,” Eberly said. “I’m still not happy I have to have lines. If I do, why doesn’t Subway, or Moyer’s or Arnold’s?”
“Because we haven’t have any complaints from anybody at that end,” Warner said. “We’ll remeasure it out, but the lines are going to stay because that was the decision we made.”
A letter is being sent to utility customers who are late paying their utility bill. It advises them that services will be disconnected if the bill is not paid in full by the final due date.
Councilwoman Joan Eberhart asked clerk-treasurer Mitch Winger not to have late-paying customers contact council members.
“I thought we were supposed to have them contact you,” Winger said.
Some customers are three or four months behind in payments, Warner noted, and it’s not fair to people who pay on time. A $5 “garbage fee” has already been added to the utility bill to make up shortages by nonpaying customers.
The board extended the repair deadline on the south side of the Green Parrott building for another two weeks – until May 28.
The council meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month.
May 19, 2011
Taking time to talk with 'Busco's future leaders
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Governor Mitch Daniels, at center above, was the keynote speaker at a luncheon for Columbia City and Churubusco Rotary Club members hosted by Dick and Sara Conrow at C&A Tool's newest building in Churubusco Wednesday. Prior to departing for numerous destinations in Northeast Indiana, Daniels took a moment to talk with several Churubusco High School students in attendance about the future of the Hoosier state, their plans and his goals for education. He answered a few questions as well. Additional photographs and information about Daniels' visit will be posted soon on Talk of the Town.
Banks, Leighty resign from GOP leadership, replacements will be sought via caucus in June
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Change is ahead for the Whitley County GOP.
Whitley County Republican Party chairman Jim Banks announced today that he will be stepping down from leadership of the county political party. Additionally, party secretary Crystal Leighty has announced she will step down as well.
After more than four years of leadership of the county GOP, Banks notified party members of his decision in writing today, stating that he enjoyed leading the group and looked forward to serving the party in some other way in the future.
"With my election to State Senate and growing time demands elsewhere I have announced at a few events over the past six months that though I’d be willing to serve the rest of my term if someone else was ready to step up, I’d be pleased to pass on the leadership opportunity to a new leader," Banks said of the two years remaining in his term. "To my pleasant surprise I had a handful of local community leaders approach me about their interest in leading the party." Banks recently completed his first term in the General Assembly as District 17 State Senator.
With many individuals voicing interest in leading the local GOP, Banks has decided to hold a caucus to find his replacement and county precinct committee members will decide who will lead them. Both Banks' position and Leighty's position will be filled that day.
The caucus is scheduled for Saturday, June 4, 2011, at 9:30 a.m. at the Brew Ha coffee house in downtown Columbia City. Each Republican precinct committee member and vice precinct committee member will have an opportunity to cast a vote.
According to party rules, anyone interested in serving as county GOP chairman will need to contact Banks in writing at least 72 hours prior to the caucus. Those interested in serving as secretary will be nominated from the floor.
Vice chair Laurell Hodges and treasurer Dr. Neil Hanni will both continue on the GOP board.
Anyone wanting further information on the caucus or who might be interested in serving should call Jim Banks at (260) 579-5828.
Change is ahead for the Whitley County GOP.
Whitley County Republican Party chairman Jim Banks announced today that he will be stepping down from leadership of the county political party. Additionally, party secretary Crystal Leighty has announced she will step down as well.
After more than four years of leadership of the county GOP, Banks notified party members of his decision in writing today, stating that he enjoyed leading the group and looked forward to serving the party in some other way in the future.
"With my election to State Senate and growing time demands elsewhere I have announced at a few events over the past six months that though I’d be willing to serve the rest of my term if someone else was ready to step up, I’d be pleased to pass on the leadership opportunity to a new leader," Banks said of the two years remaining in his term. "To my pleasant surprise I had a handful of local community leaders approach me about their interest in leading the party." Banks recently completed his first term in the General Assembly as District 17 State Senator.
With many individuals voicing interest in leading the local GOP, Banks has decided to hold a caucus to find his replacement and county precinct committee members will decide who will lead them. Both Banks' position and Leighty's position will be filled that day.
The caucus is scheduled for Saturday, June 4, 2011, at 9:30 a.m. at the Brew Ha coffee house in downtown Columbia City. Each Republican precinct committee member and vice precinct committee member will have an opportunity to cast a vote.
According to party rules, anyone interested in serving as county GOP chairman will need to contact Banks in writing at least 72 hours prior to the caucus. Those interested in serving as secretary will be nominated from the floor.
Vice chair Laurell Hodges and treasurer Dr. Neil Hanni will both continue on the GOP board.
Anyone wanting further information on the caucus or who might be interested in serving should call Jim Banks at (260) 579-5828.
DeMoney-Grimes presenting two funeral pre-planning workshops today
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
No one wants to think about their own untimely end, but for the sake of helping loved ones through a time of grief, it is worth it to pre-plan your funeral. It's not for you as much as it is for them, after all.
A funeral is a reflection of the life you lived and a service to the ones you loved and for that reason, DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home is presenting two funeral planning workshops today, Thursday, May 19, 2011, at the funeral home located at 600 Countryside Drive in Columbia City. The workshops, they hope, will help people to take steps toward planning their funeral early – and be able to enjoy the piece of mind in knowing the task will not be left to their grieving loved ones later.
The first preplanning workshop will be held from 1:30-3 p.m. and a second workshop will be held in the evening from 6:30-8 p.m..
Seating for the each workshop is limited and reservations are requested.
For more information, call DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home at 244-5122.
No one wants to think about their own untimely end, but for the sake of helping loved ones through a time of grief, it is worth it to pre-plan your funeral. It's not for you as much as it is for them, after all.
A funeral is a reflection of the life you lived and a service to the ones you loved and for that reason, DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home is presenting two funeral planning workshops today, Thursday, May 19, 2011, at the funeral home located at 600 Countryside Drive in Columbia City. The workshops, they hope, will help people to take steps toward planning their funeral early – and be able to enjoy the piece of mind in knowing the task will not be left to their grieving loved ones later.
The first preplanning workshop will be held from 1:30-3 p.m. and a second workshop will be held in the evening from 6:30-8 p.m..
Seating for the each workshop is limited and reservations are requested.
For more information, call DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home at 244-5122.
Spring Cheer for the Downtown
(Talk of the Town photo by Terry Wherry)
As part of the annual spring beautification in downtown Columbia City, crews hung crisp new flags and baskets of flowers on the green lamp lights along city streets Wednesday. The flowers are funded annually with contributions from the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce, the City of Columbia City, Columbia City Downtown Business Association and the Whitley County Farmers Market.
Chris Lilly, Jennifer Duff are new agents with LT Foundations Real Estate
(Talk of the Town photos provided)
Article provided
LT Foundations Real Estate has recently welcomed two new sales agents to their office.
Jennifer Duff was born and raised in Columbia City and in 1997 obtained her real estate license. She worked in Columbia City for a few years and eventually moved to Indianapolis where she expanded her real estate career to include becoming a mortgage loan officer and an independent mortgage loan closer.
"We are excited to announce that Jennifer has made the move back to Columbia City where we are happy to have her with us," said LT Foundations Real Estate principal broker Tina Houser. "Jennifer has been a wonderful addition to our family already and we hope she can help you obtain the dreams of owning your perfect home as well."
Chris Lilly, a resident of northern Whitley County, is also a new agent.
"Chris has been with LT Foundations since the first of the year and we couldn’t be more happy to have him," Houser said.
Lilly spent some time selling commercial real estate before he decided to make the move to residential.
“I believe that everyone that works hard should be able to realize this dream. That is why I will do everything humanly possible to help one achieve the dream,” Lilly said.
Not only is Lilly involved in the real estate business, he is also the Master Marketer for the Whitley County Farmers Market, very involved in the local 4-H organization and operates a family farm.
For more information on LT Foundations Real Estate, visit www.ltfoundations.com
Article provided
LT Foundations Real Estate has recently welcomed two new sales agents to their office.
Jennifer Duff was born and raised in Columbia City and in 1997 obtained her real estate license. She worked in Columbia City for a few years and eventually moved to Indianapolis where she expanded her real estate career to include becoming a mortgage loan officer and an independent mortgage loan closer.
"We are excited to announce that Jennifer has made the move back to Columbia City where we are happy to have her with us," said LT Foundations Real Estate principal broker Tina Houser. "Jennifer has been a wonderful addition to our family already and we hope she can help you obtain the dreams of owning your perfect home as well."
Chris Lilly, a resident of northern Whitley County, is also a new agent.
"Chris has been with LT Foundations since the first of the year and we couldn’t be more happy to have him," Houser said.
Lilly spent some time selling commercial real estate before he decided to make the move to residential.
“I believe that everyone that works hard should be able to realize this dream. That is why I will do everything humanly possible to help one achieve the dream,” Lilly said.
Not only is Lilly involved in the real estate business, he is also the Master Marketer for the Whitley County Farmers Market, very involved in the local 4-H organization and operates a family farm.
For more information on LT Foundations Real Estate, visit www.ltfoundations.com
Dancing school celebrates 39th year with weekend recital at Indian Springs Middle School
(Talk of the Town photo provided)
Students from Lois Ellen's Dance School will perform in a recital this Saturday evening. Several of the students paused for a photo recently. In front, from left, is Mackenzie Kline and Makayla Bolinger. Row two, from left, is Melissa Wolfe, Leah Potts, Esther Jagger, Autumn Hull, Hallie Tash and Amanda Trahin. Row three, from left, includes Heather Hoffman, Carmen Jagger, Lois Brandenburg, Carrie Hull and Misty Oliver.
Article provided
Lois Brandenburg, owner and instructor of Lois Ellen's Dance School of Columbia City, is celebrating 39 years of offering lessons with her annual dance recital this Saturday, May 21, 2011, at 7 p.m. at Indian Springs Middle School. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for children ages 5-12.
Students from age three up to to adults will perform various routines in tap, ballet and jazz, which is taught and choreographed by Brandenburg with the assistance of her daughter, Heather Hoffman.
The Twilight Cloggers, instructed and choreographed by Brandenburg's daughter, Carrie Hull, will be performing also. Clogging students range from age eight on up to adults.
May 18, 2011
Senate Pro Tem tells Whitley County residents latest session was 'one for the ages'
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Whitley County's senator and state representatives attended Tuesday's Columbia City Rotary Club meeting to give an overview of happenings at the General Assembly this year. Above, from left, Rotarians Matt Boyd and Tom O'Neill talk with State Representatives David Long and Kathy Heuer. Senator Jim Banks, president elect for the club, was also in attendance. Below, Senate President Pro Tem David Long, who now represents residents in portions of Union and Jefferson Townships in Whitley County, was the afternoon's keynote speaker.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Senate President Pro Tem David Long presented a legislative update in Columbia City today, giving an overview of the 2011 session and answering constituent questions. As of this session, Long now represents a portion of Whitley County -- segments of Union and Jefferson Townships, due to redistricting -- one of several major initiatives addressed at the state level this year.
"This was most difficult, challenging and tumultuous years in the General Assembly," Long said as he spoke before members of the Columbia City Rotary Club.
"As far as we're concerned, it was a grand slam. We got virtually everything we wanted," Long added of State Republicans' initiatives statewide.
Long noted four main areas of legislation this year that he felt were most substantial, including balancing the budget, fixing unemployment insurance, redistricting and education reform.
He said the state's budget is balanced and that the state is now living within its means. He anticipates the state is now on track to expect a $1 billion budget surplus.
"It was a win-win for everybody," he said, adding that for the first time in a long time, he believes the budget was actually trimmed, not just changed by reallocating funds into different piles. 
Unemployment insurance was a significant issue for lawmakers as they entered General Assembly this year as well. "For a decade, we've paid out more than has been paid in," Long said, blaming a change made in 2001. "The model (then) said it wouldn't cost us, but it did," he said. Under the new changes, Long said unemployment insurance should now be more tolerable for employers and should be balanced by 2018.
Redistricting is an issue that is put before the General Assembly every 10 years, coinciding with most recent Census figures and requiring legislators to map the state's congressional, senate and state representatives' districts. "We have a key responsibility to get that done in a way that makes us proud," said Long. "We achieved our goal -- particularly on our congressional districts. We did it ourselves. We stand by those and think they're constitutionally strong."
Despite what may be constitutionally sound new districts of representation, there could still be arguments made that the representation is too partisan. "We could still get sued," he said.
Of the four major issues address this year, Long would describe education reform as the most contentious.
"It was a bold move driven at the top by the Governor," he said. "These (changes) were the most controversial by far." Long said Indiana has not done the best job of educating Hoosier children for high tech, 21st Century jobs or prepared them well to compete on a global level, something he hopes won't be the case in a few years. "This has not been a state that values education," he said. "We need a well-educated workforce in Indiana."
Long noted four major areas within education that occupied much of the lawmakers' time this session: teachers unions, teacher's pay and quality, charter schools and school vouchers.
Long described teachers unions as having "overwhelming control" over schools. "There wasn't virtually anything they couldn't have a say in," he said, saying the unions had a say in everything from personnel issues to paint colors on the walls in schools. "We had to disentangle them," he said.
Long said Senate Bill 575 did precisely that, and now limits unions' interests to teachers' salaries and benefits alone.
Senate Bill 1, aptly named because of fellow Republicans' feeling that it was of the utmost importance, addressed teachers' pay and performance. "Our best teachers ought to be getting a little extra pay," said Long. He said those of a similar mindset found it frustrating that good teachers could be laid off or released from duty before less effective teachers due to seniority. "We needed a series of accountability factors," Long said, adding that as they crafted this legislation they tried to get input from teachers around the state, and had a goal of creating a system where quality, effective teachers are rewarded. "How are kids performing? How are they improving? That factors into the kind of pay they'll be receiving," he said. "I think its a good plan."
"In Indiana we haven't done a good job of chartering schools," said Long. Thus far, chartering has primarily happened only under the direction of the Mayor of Indianapolis and from Ball State University, but with newfound legislative interest, he is hopeful that smaller, liberal arts colleges around the state will begin issue charters, not only in urban settings, but in more rural areas as well. "What this will do," he said, "is provide more competition for rural areas in Indiana."
"The idea of charter schools is to innovate and be different," continued Long.
Finally, Long spoke of the school vouchers. Contained in House Bill 1005 was some of the most controversial, cutting-edge legislation in the state -- and in the nation. "Indiana would be the most innovative in the country," Long said of efforts to create a voucher program whereby financially strapped parents can choose to send their children to the private schools of their choice in a way that is subsidized by the state.
"A poor person has no choice. They're stuck. People of limited means should have a choice," Long said of giving parents more opportunities to pick educational opportunities for their children. "The idea is to give parents a choice."
Under the new legislation, the voucher program will provide 7500 vouchers the first year and 15,000 vouchers the second year, funded statewide.
Eligible for a voucher to send their children to a private school will be dependent upon financial need and will be tied to the amount of available funding in given school districts. Specifically, the need requirements will be similar to those established for students receiving free and reduced price lunches and book fees.
- A family of four with a household income of less than $61,000 per year would qualify for a voucher worth 50% of the tuition at the school of their choice.
- A family of four with a household income of less than $41,000 per year would qualify for a voucher worth 90% of the tuition at the school of their choice.
For a private school to be eligible for the voucher system, it will need to meet a number of requirements outlined by the state, including accreditation through defined avenues, use of ISTEP and other mandates. Parents could choose to use vouchers to send children to charter, non-sectarian schools, private schools and to religious schools.
"We'll see how this works," Long said of the voucher program.
"We're going to scrutinize everything we did," he said, looking back at what was accomplished this session.
"For a session to look so bleak (from the outset), it really was an amazing transformational session -- truly one for the ages," concluded Long.
Progress Continues...
If you missed the full story about what's happening downtown at the Van Buren Building, read our full story posted over the weekend by clicking here.
Graham Roman named Eagle Scout of the Year for District 4
(Talk of the Town photo provided)
Graham Roman, at right, a senior at Columbia City High School, was recently named Eagle Scout of the Year for District 4 by the Indiana American Legion.
Roman is a Eagle that has also achieved the Bronze and Gold Palm status with the Boy Scouts of America. He will be joined by his parents, Keith and Kathi Roman, to receive this award a in Indianapolis this summer where state honors will be given to Eagle Scouts.
He has been active in scouting for 10 years and continues to be through serving as a Venture Scout and as a staff member with Anthony Wayne Scout Council at Camp Chief Little Turtle.
He received his Eagle Scout promotion under the direction of his scoutmaster Steve Corbin in Troop 82 in Columbia City.
Graham Roman, at right, a senior at Columbia City High School, was recently named Eagle Scout of the Year for District 4 by the Indiana American Legion.
Roman is a Eagle that has also achieved the Bronze and Gold Palm status with the Boy Scouts of America. He will be joined by his parents, Keith and Kathi Roman, to receive this award a in Indianapolis this summer where state honors will be given to Eagle Scouts.
He has been active in scouting for 10 years and continues to be through serving as a Venture Scout and as a staff member with Anthony Wayne Scout Council at Camp Chief Little Turtle.
He received his Eagle Scout promotion under the direction of his scoutmaster Steve Corbin in Troop 82 in Columbia City.
Many gather for Goody's grand opening today
May 17, 2011
Whitley County Community Foundation supports numerous non-profits, initiatives with May grant awards
(Talk of the Town photo copyright Jennifer Zartman Romano) The Whitley County Community Foundation, above, announced the recipients of their May 2011 grant cycle.
Article provided
As the Whitley County Community Foundation celebrates its 20th Anniversary this summer, the organization’s leadership shines the spotlight on the numerous donors who have looked beyond themselves and thought about the community for which we all care so much. By trusting the Community Foundation to thoughtfully manage and direct their gifts, over the past two decades, donors have helped build endowment funds. The following grants are a reflection of their generosity. Unless otherwise noted, the grants are awarded from the Foundation’s Unrestricted Greater Good Fund.
· B.A.B.E of Whitley County, Inc.: $3,500 to enhance marketing their services.
· The Center for Whitley County Youth: $7,000 toward expenses associated with the After-School SERVE program and construction of the café/concession area.
· Community Action of Northeast Indiana (CANI): $3,000 to assist with increasing requests for energy assistance. Made possible by the Ferber Family Fund.
· Churubusco Public Library: $1,000 to host an outdoor summer concert series.
· Churubusco United Methodist Church Pantry: $1,000 for pantry supplies and staples.
· Early Childhood Alliance: $5,000 to offer the Parents as Teachers Classes in Whitley County. Made possible by the Dekko Childcare Enhancement Endowment Fund.
· Leadership Whitley County: $5,000 as a Proactive Merit Grant in recognition of the significant contributions this organization has made since its inception ten years ago.
· Mad Anthony’s Children’s Hope House: $500 toward the costs of housing Whitley County families with a hospitalized child. Made possible by the Ferber Family Fund.
· Harold W. McMillen Center for Health Education: $1,000 to help provide drug abuse prevention programs to Whitley County youth in grades 4-6.
· Peabody Public Library: $2,000 toward offering a free, outdoor, summer concert series.
· Scottish Cultural Society: $2,100 to present a free Scottish Festival in Whitley County.
· South Whitley Cleveland Township Library: $1,000 to offer an outdoor summer concert series.
· Stepping Stones Preschool & Child Care Center: $2,079 for Summer Arts and Science Enrichment Camp expenses. Made possible by the WhitleyForward Fund.
· Turning Point Church Assemblies of God: $500 for laundry supplies and after school snacks.
· Whitko Pony League: $1,250 toward the purchase of an electronic scoreboard. Made possible by the Theodore & Mildred Schultz Endowment Fund.
· Whitley County Autumn Arts Festival: $1,485 for promotion of the annual art festival. Made possible in part by the Arts Alive in Whitley County Endowment Fund.
· Whitley County Domestic Violence Task Force: $8,000 toward Emergency Protocol, community educational programming and technology maintenance. Made possible in part by the Ferber Family Fund.
· Whitley County Economic Development Corporation: $10,000 for their Small Business Initiative Green Light Education Program.
· Whitley County Historical Society and Museum: $500 to house and store historical clothing and textiles using proper archival materials.
· Whitley County Salvation Army: $5,000 for backpacks and school supplies for Whitley County youth.
In addition to these grant awards, The Community Foundation’s Board of Directors also continued to allocate funding for WhitleyForward. This proactive, three-year venture was created to raise awareness of the need continued education after high school. WhitleyForward supports STEM education and funds projects that encourage Whitley County students to explore classes in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
The Whitley County Community Foundation is a public charity serving Whitley County, Indiana. Members of the Board of Directors include Sharlene Berkshire, Dale Duncan, Greg Fahl, Rhonda Jones, John Lefever, Rob Marr, Aileen Meier, Harold Norman, Bill Overdeer, David Smith, Laurel Steill and John Whiteleather. Grant applications from non-profit organizations are reviewed by a volunteer Grants Committee that in turn makes funding recommendations to the Foundation’s Board of Directors. The next grant deadline is December 1, 2011.
For more information, visit www.whitleycountycommunityfoundation.org or call 244-5224.
Whitley County Consolidated Schools' commends retirees' combined 285 years of service
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
On Monday evening, ten individuals were recognized for a combined total of 285 years of service to Whitley County Consolidated School.
Dan Curless, principal at Little Turtle Elementary School, will retire at the end of the school year with 38.5 years of service.
Columbia City High School social studies teacher Michael Nowling will retire with 35 years of service.
Retiring with 34 years of service are Roger Warner, a CCHS industrial technology teacher, and Marilyn Lemon, an instructional assistant at Coesse Elementary School.
Marold Farber will retire with 29 years of service as office nurse assistant at Mary Raber Elementary School.
After 28 years with the system, Priscilla Peters retires as food service manager for Coesse Elementary School.
Susan Mullet, language arts teacher at CCHS, retires with 25.5 years of service.
Dianne Zumbrun, food service assistant at CCHS, will retire with 24 years of service.
With 23 years of service, Connie Dittmer retires as custodian at Mary Raber Elementary School.
Mary Brashear, custodian at Indian Springs Middle School, retires with 14 years of service.
Each of the retirees was recognized during the school board meeting and commended by the board for their service to the school corporation, outlining some of their future plans and aspirations -- as well as making note of what they won't miss in their retirement years. For most, it was meetings!
On Monday evening, ten individuals were recognized for a combined total of 285 years of service to Whitley County Consolidated School.
Dan Curless, principal at Little Turtle Elementary School, will retire at the end of the school year with 38.5 years of service.
Columbia City High School social studies teacher Michael Nowling will retire with 35 years of service.
Retiring with 34 years of service are Roger Warner, a CCHS industrial technology teacher, and Marilyn Lemon, an instructional assistant at Coesse Elementary School.
Marold Farber will retire with 29 years of service as office nurse assistant at Mary Raber Elementary School.
After 28 years with the system, Priscilla Peters retires as food service manager for Coesse Elementary School.
Susan Mullet, language arts teacher at CCHS, retires with 25.5 years of service.
Dianne Zumbrun, food service assistant at CCHS, will retire with 24 years of service.
With 23 years of service, Connie Dittmer retires as custodian at Mary Raber Elementary School.
Mary Brashear, custodian at Indian Springs Middle School, retires with 14 years of service.
Each of the retirees was recognized during the school board meeting and commended by the board for their service to the school corporation, outlining some of their future plans and aspirations -- as well as making note of what they won't miss in their retirement years. For most, it was meetings!
Girl Scouts give big for Little Swimmers Fund
(Talk of the Town photo provided)
Local Girl Scouts proudly presented a check for $50 to the Donovan Kessler Memorial Little Swimmers Fund Saturday in Columbia City. From left, above, Rebecca Kessler presents the check to Tammie Kessler and Tammy Azar, Donovan's grandmothers who put on the fundraiser each year. Standing with Rebecca are fellow scouts, Courtney, Jalea and Heidi.
Several openings remain in Faith Christian Academy's preschool, upper grades for 2011-2012 academic year
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Faith Christian Academy, Whitley County’s only private, non-denominational Christian school has openings in both the morning and afternoon preschool classes for the 2011-2012 academic year.
The morning sessions are Tuesday through Friday from 8 to 11 a.m.
The afternoon sessions are also Tuesday through Friday from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Spaces are filling up and parents are urged to complete the registration process before May 31, 2011.
For additional information or to reserve a space, please call 248-4872.
There are also openings in the full day kindergarten and all grade school classes through grade 8. A reduced book fee is available to all students who register and complete payment prior to May 31, 2011.
Faith Christian Academy, Whitley County’s only private, non-denominational Christian school has openings in both the morning and afternoon preschool classes for the 2011-2012 academic year.
The morning sessions are Tuesday through Friday from 8 to 11 a.m.
The afternoon sessions are also Tuesday through Friday from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Spaces are filling up and parents are urged to complete the registration process before May 31, 2011.
For additional information or to reserve a space, please call 248-4872.
There are also openings in the full day kindergarten and all grade school classes through grade 8. A reduced book fee is available to all students who register and complete payment prior to May 31, 2011.
Senate leadership cheers Banks' 100 percent voting record during 2011 legislative session
(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) 
By Erin Reece
On Monday, Senate President Pro Tempore David Long, of Fort Wayne, recognized State Senator Jim Banks of Columbia City for his outstanding 2011 voting attendance record of 100 percent.
“Senator Banks realizes the importance of being the voice for those Hoosiers within Senate District 17,” Long said. “I congratulate him on achieving a perfect attendance record and thank him for the dedication he has shown to his constituents and this state.”
This session, 118 Senate bills moved to the governor’s desk.
“These pieces of legislation represent the people’s work, including a balanced budget, private-sector job initiatives, education improvements and a fair redistricting plan,” Long said. “I’m proud to say Senator Banks gave his best throughout the legislative process.”
This session, state records show 299 of 317 Third Reading roll call votes in the Senate were bipartisan in nature. Of these, 128 were unanimous.
Local hospital receives PRC recognition
Article provided
Parkview Whitley Hospital was recently recognized with 2011 Professional Research Consultants (PRC) Excellence in Healthcare Awards. The awards are based on patients’ perception of care and employee perception, and were presented at the PRC Excellence in Healthcare Conference in Omaha, Nebraska.
Winners included:
Top Performer Award - Parkview FirstCare – Pierceton
5-Star Award - Parkview Physicians’ Group: Rebecca Case, MD; Northeast OB/GYN – Whitley; Parkview FirstCare – Pierceton
4-Star Award - Parkview Whitley Hospital: Inpatient; Outpatient; Training and Professional Development; Overall Empowerment; Teamwork Between Departments; Teamwork Within Department; Senior Leadership; Immediate Supervisor; Communication; Patient Care; As a Place to Work
Top performer winners scored at or above the 100th percentile. This is PRC’s highest honor. Five-star award winners scored in the top 10 percent. Four-star award winners scored in the top 25 percent. The awards are based on the percentage of patients who said their overall quality of care was excellent. The data comes from PRC’s national client database for 2010 and was collected through phone interviews conducted by PRC, which is a nationally known healthcare marketing-research company headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska.
Walker named class valedictorian for EXCEL
(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Columbia City resident Jeff Walker, below, graduated as class valedictorian of the Huntington University EXCEL program Saturday, earning his associate's degree in organizational management.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Huntington University hosted commencement exercises on Saturday, May 14, 2011, on the main campus, Huntington.
Jeffrey Walker of Columbia City, class valedictorian, was honored by Huntington University's EXCEL Adult Degree Programs as the student having earned the highest grade point average in the associate degree program.
Walker earned his associate of science degree in organizational management.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Huntington University hosted commencement exercises on Saturday, May 14, 2011, on the main campus, Huntington.
Jeffrey Walker of Columbia City, class valedictorian, was honored by Huntington University's EXCEL Adult Degree Programs as the student having earned the highest grade point average in the associate degree program.
Walker earned his associate of science degree in organizational management.
May 16, 2011
Goewert named Principal of the Year for IASP District 3, Emmert named Assistant Principal of the Year
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Bryan Emmert, below, was named District 3 Assistant Principal of the Year. A resident of Whitley County, Emmert is an assistant principal at East Noble Middle School.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Columbia City High School principal Gregg Goewert was named among an elite group of principals from across Indiana Thursday -- he was named District 3 Principal of the Year by the Indiana Association of School Principals (IASP).
Additionally, Whitley County resident Bryan Emmert was named Assistant Principal of the Year. Emmert is an assistant principal for East Noble Middle School in Kendallville.
District 3 is comprised of a 10-county area of northeast Indiana, including the counties of Whitley, Allen, Wabash, Wells, Huntington, Adams, DeKalb, Noble, Steuben and Lagrange. In all, there are 12 districts in Indiana.
Others honored Thursday include Middle School Principal of the Year Scott Miller of Bellmont Middle School and Elementary School Principal of the Year Rebecca Dennis of Croninger Elementary School.
Goewert has served as a principal for three years, spent seven years as an assistant principal and has a total of 10 years in high school administration. Prior to that, he was a classroom teacher for eight years.
Goewert earned his bachelor's degree in 1995, a master's degree in 1999 and an EdS in 2007.
A rural Whitley County resident, Goewert is active in several local organizations including Columbia City Rotary Club, Whitley County College Success Coalition and the Whitley Forward initiative through the Whitley County Community Foundation. He is a board member of Foster Care Services, board president of Woven, Whitley County board member for Systems of Care, was nominated for the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce board and past board member of the Jay County Kiwanis.
He has held leadership positions within the IASP, NASSP, ASCD, IHSAA and OASSA.
Under his leadership, the following awards have been presented to local schools: Best Buy High School, Indiana Gold Star for Guidance Department, RAMP Award for Guidance and others.
"I'm pretty excited about it," Goewert said Friday. "I have a great team," he added, crediting fellow administrative staff including assistant principals Chris Lagoni, Brady Mullett, dean of students Andrew McDaniel and athletic director Geoff Penrod.
"It calls to attention the fact that's we're doing a lot of great things at CCHS," Goewert said. Factors such as the improvement in graduation rates and attendance scores helped in his selection for the award. "Our graduation rate is where it is because we're really trying to support all of the kids," he said.
"It reflects positively on all of us," he said. "I'm honored to serve at THE Columbia City High School -- I love my job."
Goewert learned of his award Thursday evening during the IASP's district meeting and planned to notify staff on Monday. He said the award came as a complete surprise, adding, "You don't even know you've been nominated."
"I'm happy to be honored and I'm happy for my peers to be honored as well," Goewert said of the four three other educators in the district recognized with awards Thursday. Goewert also applauded the IASP's leadership. "The association has had a true voice with Dr. (Tony) Bennett and Governor (Mitch) Daniels," he said.
Goewert and his wife, Danielle, recently adopted two young sons, Mason and Lucas, after serving as foster parents.
Emmert has served ten years as an assistant principal and seven years as a classroom teacher. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in 1993 and a master's degree in 2001.
Emmert has served as an IASP Assistant Principals Conference facilitator for two years, participated in NHMLC athletic directors meetings and as past president of the Land of Lakes Middle School Athletic Conference.He holds membership in the NASSP, IASP and NASP.
Locally, Emmert serves on the audio-visual and praise teams at Columbia City United Methodist Church, is a member of the Whitley County Horse & Pony Club, serves as a volunteer at the Whitley County 4-H Fair, organized a reunion for the 1954 Rome City High School boys basketball team in 2008, and is a musician for the Whitley County Worship Arts Camp.
He was nominated for the District 3 Assistant Principal of the Year award in 2010, named in the Who's Who Among American Teachers, was a candidate for the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards and a graduate of the Indiana Principals Leadership Academy Group 41.
"I would like to thank everyone who has helped me become a better assistant principal throughout the past 10 years," Emmert said. "I would especially like to thank my wife, Heidi, for her support and help while I attended many athletic events, conferences, and having short summer breaks."
"I have had the opportunity to work alongside many great students, teachers, counselors, and administrators at East Noble School Corporation," Emmert continued. "I believe teaching is a great career choice and would not change any of my experiences the past 17 years with anything," he added.
Emmert and his wife, Heidi (Copp) Emmert, have two sons, Chase and Jon.
Goewert, Emmert and the other honorees from around the state will now be considered for statewide awards with the IASP in June.
Huntington University honors four educators serving Whitley County's EXCEL students
By Ashley Smith
Huntington University’s EXCEL Adult Degree Programs honored four faculty members on May 14 for their achievements during the year.
The following were named “Outstanding Faculty” for receiving the most number of votes from the EXCEL student body based on the criteria that they best represented EXCEL’s core values of integrity, student support and student learning:
Dr. Luke Fetters, associate professor of ministry and missions at Huntington University.
Scott Druhot, an adjunct faculty member for EXCEL and director of marketing and educational services for the Orthopaedic Skills Academy at Biomet Orthopedics in Warsaw, Ind.
Dale Gerke, an adjunct faculty member for EXCEL and the station manager at Bott Radio Network in Fort Wayne, Ind.
Stan Buck, an adjunct faculty member for EXCEL and the lead pastor at Sonrise Church in Fort Wayne, Ind.
All four serve students on the Columbia City EXCEL campus.
EXCEL offers online and evening classes tailored to the schedule of working adults. Onsite classes are held one night per week, one subject at a time in Huntington, Columbia City and Wabash, Ind. Classes last five to eight weeks and lead to an associate degree in organizational management or Christian ministry. Bachelor’s degrees in accounting, business administration, human resource management, marketing, not-for-profit leadership or nursing (RN to BSN) are also available in this adult-friendly format. For more information, click here.
Huntington University’s EXCEL Adult Degree Programs honored four faculty members on May 14 for their achievements during the year.
The following were named “Outstanding Faculty” for receiving the most number of votes from the EXCEL student body based on the criteria that they best represented EXCEL’s core values of integrity, student support and student learning:
Dr. Luke Fetters, associate professor of ministry and missions at Huntington University.
Scott Druhot, an adjunct faculty member for EXCEL and director of marketing and educational services for the Orthopaedic Skills Academy at Biomet Orthopedics in Warsaw, Ind.
Dale Gerke, an adjunct faculty member for EXCEL and the station manager at Bott Radio Network in Fort Wayne, Ind.
Stan Buck, an adjunct faculty member for EXCEL and the lead pastor at Sonrise Church in Fort Wayne, Ind.
All four serve students on the Columbia City EXCEL campus.
EXCEL offers online and evening classes tailored to the schedule of working adults. Onsite classes are held one night per week, one subject at a time in Huntington, Columbia City and Wabash, Ind. Classes last five to eight weeks and lead to an associate degree in organizational management or Christian ministry. Bachelor’s degrees in accounting, business administration, human resource management, marketing, not-for-profit leadership or nursing (RN to BSN) are also available in this adult-friendly format. For more information, click here.
Indiana Sheriff's Association urges families to educate themselves about sex offenders in their area
Article provided
The Indiana Sheriffs’ Association (ISA) asks that you go online to www.indianasheriffs.org or contact your county sheriff’s department to know if there are registered sex or violent offenders living in your community. Make it a safe and happy summer by knowing who’s in your neighborhood by signing up for a FREE email alert.
For additional information Indiana’s sex and violent offender registry, call the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association toll free: 1-800-622-4779.
The Indiana Sheriffs’ Association (ISA) asks that you go online to www.indianasheriffs.org or contact your county sheriff’s department to know if there are registered sex or violent offenders living in your community. Make it a safe and happy summer by knowing who’s in your neighborhood by signing up for a FREE email alert.
For additional information Indiana’s sex and violent offender registry, call the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association toll free: 1-800-622-4779.
Summer Swim Team registration is Saturday
From reports
Local youth swimmers interested in participating on the Summer Swim Team are encouraged to register this Saturday, May 21, 2011, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Burnworth Memorial Pool in Columbia City. If it rains, registration will be moved to the Whitley County Family YMCA.
During registration, swimmers may purchase caps, goggles, swimsuits and other items, as well as get answers to any questions they may have.
The first practice for the Summer Swim Team is slated for June 6.
Local youth swimmers interested in participating on the Summer Swim Team are encouraged to register this Saturday, May 21, 2011, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Burnworth Memorial Pool in Columbia City. If it rains, registration will be moved to the Whitley County Family YMCA.
During registration, swimmers may purchase caps, goggles, swimsuits and other items, as well as get answers to any questions they may have.
The first practice for the Summer Swim Team is slated for June 6.
CC Deli's Soups of the Week
This week, on Tuesday and Wednesday, May 17-18, 2011, the CC Deli will be serving Reuben sandwiches from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
What follows are the CC Deli Soups of the Week:
Monday - Potato Bacon and Chicken Dumpling
Tuesday - Chili and Chicken & Rice
Wednesday - White Chili* and Smokey Poblano
Thursday - Cheesy Potato and Stuffed Pepper
Friday - Veggie Beef*and Broccoli & Cheese
* denotes soups that are gluten free.
What follows are the CC Deli Soups of the Week:
Monday - Potato Bacon and Chicken Dumpling
Tuesday - Chili and Chicken & Rice
Wednesday - White Chili* and Smokey Poblano
Thursday - Cheesy Potato and Stuffed Pepper
Friday - Veggie Beef*and Broccoli & Cheese
* denotes soups that are gluten free.
May 15, 2011
Business partners busy bringing 21st century plans to 114-year-old downtown landmark
A Mad Anthony's in the works? Maybe...but there's more to the story
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, from left, business partners Jason Conrad, Tim Hearld, Jim Farber and Gary Rider have tapped into their construction skills and business acumen to transform the former McGregor Building to a new center of business opportunity. Below, painters give a fresh coat of paint to the the building, one of several changes that can be seen from the exterior. Much more is happening inside. Beneath, one of several offices for small businesses is nearing completion on the second floor. At bottom, a third floor room, formerly used by the Masons years ago, is being transformed into one of two reception hall spaces in the building.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Rumors have been circulating about a well-known regional chain of restaurants locating it's newest venue in the former McGregor Building in downtown Columbia City. While the rumor may prove true at some point in the future, there's truly a whole lot more to the story worth talking about. 
Building owners Tim Hearld, Jim Farber, Gary Rider and Jason Conrad have been busy almost non-stop since purchasing the building early this past winter. In addition to having a passion for finding a 21st century purpose for the downtown landmark building they now call the Van Buren Building, at the southwest corner of Van Buren and Line Streets, the four have a lot in common that will suit them well for all they have in store. Three of the four were classmates at Columbia City Joint High School, two are cousins, all enjoy motorcycles and all four are related to each other in one way or another. Additionally, all four specialize in a different area of construction. Conrad's specialty is concrete. Rider, an electrician, is the owner of Rider Electric. Farber specializes in plumbling, heating and cooling -- and owns Flow-Tech.
Hearld specializes in commercial construction and is the owner of Synergid Construction, a company with a strong focus on green building practices.
To address what most people have been talking about since the four took ownership of the building -- indeed, they have been in talks with the owners of the Mad Anthony Brewing Company, a popular, locally-owned chain of restaurants and microbreweries in northeast Indiana.
"The rumors about Mad Anthony's have been out there for awhile now," laughed Hearld. "We did talk to them and they're still talking to us. We don't have anything else on that yet."
They're also exploring other options for the first floor of the three-story, 18,000 square foot building that has been a business anchor in downtown Columbia City for over a hundred years.
"We're trying to find a restaurant for that space," Rider said. "That's our highest priority and what we feel would be best for Columbia City."
"We'll build to suit," added Conrad.
"Right now, we're working on our state permits and getting the building from the 1900s to now," Hearld said of the tedious work underway within the building to bring it from it's turn of the century building code to meet present day needs. "Everything with the state may take awhile," he added, but said he hopes to see much of the work inside the building completed within the next year -- or sooner on the first floor based on the needs of potential tenants. 
"On the first floor, we're really hoping for a restaurant," said Farber. Second and third floor plans will call for reception facilities, catering space and offices for up to three small businesses.
The first small business has already committed to the second story's north end. Chad Moore, photographer and owner of CMoore's Photography, will be opening a full-service photography studio there, hoping to move into the space as soon as early June. The close proximity to reception and special event space will prove ideal for Moore whose business has been growing steadily for the past couple of years.
Renovation work has been ongoing to transform larger spaces within the Van Buren building, the former meeting spaces of the Masons, back to their grandeur. When completed, the reception hall facilities on the second and third floor may accommodate as many as 500 guests -- creating ideal settings for business meetings, luncheons, wedding receptions and more. The four would like to see the facilities remain open to any caterer who would like to use the space, providing more options for those interested in renting the space for their own events.
Additionally, warming kitchens, restrooms and storage spaces will be available adjacent to the reception rooms. One of the two halls features a stage and soaring arched windows overlooking downtown Columbia City. Both feature original hardwood floors.
Soon, a limited use elevator will be installed to make the building handicap accessible on all three floors.
"We've already had a lot of people asking about having their events here," Hearld said. "There's definitely a lot of interest in that," added Conrad.
For weeks, large dumpsters remained near the north entrance of the building where workers hauled loads of material from the building. Hearld said that since renovations began, 160 cubic yards of garbage have been removed. "Fifty tons of steel and copper have been removed and recycled," Hearld said.
A lot has left the building, but even more has been added -- new drywall, walls have been added and subtracted, new electrical, lead pipes have been replaced and new plumbing and heating has been installed, tapping each of the men for their particular type of construction expertise.
"I don't think anyone could afford to do it all if they had to have it done," Farber said.
Of course with Hearld's background, the building has an environmentally friendly edge too. New, energy efficient windows will be installed in the next week to aid efficiency, bamboo flooring is being installed in one of the offices, existing doors and wood are being retrofitted for reuse in various spaces in the building. They are also looking into several special programs that help fund energy improvements through the USDA and other sources.
So while they're bringing the building up to date and making it energy efficient in the process, they're also committed to keeping it's historic look and feel.
"We are trying to keep the original look as much as possible," Hearld said, pointing to rounded corners on drywall surfaces that mimic the old plaster that can still be seen around windows on the third floor, time-worn wooden floors that will be refinished, interior transoms and windows that remain intact and other beautiful features that will only be enhanced as restoration continues. 
While the lion's share of work has happened within the 114-year-old building, evidence of the men's work can be seen outside as well. For the past several weeks crews have been painting trim work to coordinate precisely with the neighboring Grant Building. New window installation, including the revealing of beautiful arched windows on the third floor, will begin by Wednesday of this week.
The men voiced gratitude to the Downtown Facade Grant Committee for approving $10,000 in facade grants to improve the north and east sides of the building.
"It really takes programs like that to make this work," Hearld said. "There are also grants and low interest loans out there once you start digging around."
The men have also been in talks with the Columbia City Redevelopment Commission and hope to take advantage of the newly created Revolving Loan Program. If approved, they would be the first business to utilize the funds in the commission's coffers.
"We've just got to continue working on our direction," Farber said. "And continue finding funds," Rider added.
They're also hoping to continue talking with businesses and individuals who might be interested in moving their enterprises within the building. Anyone interested in pursuing space rental options within the building should contact Tim Hearld at 327-3614.
Spring fundraising total for Donovan Kessler Memorial Little Swimmer's Fund totals $3028.33 after cookout Saturday
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
A soggy evening didn't detour supporters of the Donovan Kessler Little Swimmers Fund from attending the fifth annual Community Cookout Saturday evening, May 14, 2011.
The Morsches Park pavilion kept attendees dry and games kept them entertained.
In all, the event, including a recent garage sale, raffles and donations, brought in $3028.33 to add to the fund's endowment through the Whitley County Community Foundation. The funds are used to provide swimming class scholarships for children in the community.
It is the hope of the event's founder, Tammy Azar, that by teaching children water safety skills other families my be able to avoid the tragedy her family faced when her grandson, Donovan, died after accessing a covered, locked swimming pool.
A soggy evening didn't detour supporters of the Donovan Kessler Little Swimmers Fund from attending the fifth annual Community Cookout Saturday evening, May 14, 2011.
The Morsches Park pavilion kept attendees dry and games kept them entertained.
In all, the event, including a recent garage sale, raffles and donations, brought in $3028.33 to add to the fund's endowment through the Whitley County Community Foundation. The funds are used to provide swimming class scholarships for children in the community.
It is the hope of the event's founder, Tammy Azar, that by teaching children water safety skills other families my be able to avoid the tragedy her family faced when her grandson, Donovan, died after accessing a covered, locked swimming pool.
Whitley County Humane Society hires new coordinator for animal shelter
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The Whitley County Humane Society has hired a new coordinator for the animal shelter, located on South Line Street, in Columbia City.
Kassie Harrold, a Ball State University biology major, will begin overseeing the activities of the shelter.
Some changes have also been announced for the facility, including expanded hours. The shelter will soon be open five days a week.
The Whitley County Humane Society has hired a new coordinator for the animal shelter, located on South Line Street, in Columbia City.
Kassie Harrold, a Ball State University biology major, will begin overseeing the activities of the shelter.
Some changes have also been announced for the facility, including expanded hours. The shelter will soon be open five days a week.
May 14, 2011
Columbia City's baseball season now in full swing
(Talk of the Town photo provided)
The baseball season officially began today in Columbia City. Teams of youngsters, all proudly dressed in their new uniforms, participated in a parade through Morsches Park, above. Fortunately, many teams were able to enjoy games relatively unaffected by the rain.
Delta Kappa Gamma members learn about new technology for educators at April meeting
Article provided
The Alpha Zeta Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma Society, International met April 16 at the Coesse Elementary School. President Donna Ott welcomed everyone and prayer was offered before breakfast which had been prepared by the hostess committee.
Guests introduced included Conni Harrison, liaison from Alpha Epsilon State, grants-in-aid recipients Leander Kauffman, Whitley County, and Lindsay Knee, Wabash County, the Esther May Ashley Scholarship winner and Manchester College student Jessica Grandlinard, parents of recipients, and Berti Huffschmidt.
Lori Heuer and Roxanne Thomas presented information on new technology used in their classroom. Learn360 allows them to choose from thousands of video clips, encyclopedia articles, images, speeches, newsreels, lesson plans, worksheets, etc. on a given topic. Compass Learning allows teachers to individualize student learning on a computer. ExamView allows teachers to show a quiz on a white board and students to use clickers to enter answers which are printed out for the teacher. The MIMIO is a white board which allows student interaction with the material projected onto it. The program was very informative and fascinating especially to those who have been retired for a number of years.
Second Vice-President Carol Winterholter announced that the Chapter has collected enough change for the program “A Little Change can Change a Life” to pay for six GED test scholarships. The Chapter also honored past president Carol Herzog for her election to serve a second biennium as State President of Delta Kappa Gamma.
Alpha Zeta Chapter represents Huntington, Wabash, and Whitley counties of the Delta Kappa Gamma International Society, a society of key women educators from the United States, North America, and Europe.
Members from Whitley County are Michelle Ball, Karen Bandelier, Waneta Bundy, Sue Corbin, MaryLou Fries, Sally Gerard, Lori Heuer, Darla Johnson, Barbara Kessie, Donna Ott, Barbara Overdeer, Pat Reed, Kathaleen Reese, Marsha Ruesch, JoEllen Rush, Dorotha Sheets, Laurel Steill, Roxanne Thomas, Janet Vesa, Darlene Bockelman, Janet Boylen, Korrine Gust, Jann Johnson, Cheri Lincoln, Michelle McGregor, Valory Pittenger, Linda Sutton and Cindy Webber.
The Alpha Zeta Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma Society, International met April 16 at the Coesse Elementary School. President Donna Ott welcomed everyone and prayer was offered before breakfast which had been prepared by the hostess committee.
Guests introduced included Conni Harrison, liaison from Alpha Epsilon State, grants-in-aid recipients Leander Kauffman, Whitley County, and Lindsay Knee, Wabash County, the Esther May Ashley Scholarship winner and Manchester College student Jessica Grandlinard, parents of recipients, and Berti Huffschmidt.
Lori Heuer and Roxanne Thomas presented information on new technology used in their classroom. Learn360 allows them to choose from thousands of video clips, encyclopedia articles, images, speeches, newsreels, lesson plans, worksheets, etc. on a given topic. Compass Learning allows teachers to individualize student learning on a computer. ExamView allows teachers to show a quiz on a white board and students to use clickers to enter answers which are printed out for the teacher. The MIMIO is a white board which allows student interaction with the material projected onto it. The program was very informative and fascinating especially to those who have been retired for a number of years.
Second Vice-President Carol Winterholter announced that the Chapter has collected enough change for the program “A Little Change can Change a Life” to pay for six GED test scholarships. The Chapter also honored past president Carol Herzog for her election to serve a second biennium as State President of Delta Kappa Gamma.
Alpha Zeta Chapter represents Huntington, Wabash, and Whitley counties of the Delta Kappa Gamma International Society, a society of key women educators from the United States, North America, and Europe.
Members from Whitley County are Michelle Ball, Karen Bandelier, Waneta Bundy, Sue Corbin, MaryLou Fries, Sally Gerard, Lori Heuer, Darla Johnson, Barbara Kessie, Donna Ott, Barbara Overdeer, Pat Reed, Kathaleen Reese, Marsha Ruesch, JoEllen Rush, Dorotha Sheets, Laurel Steill, Roxanne Thomas, Janet Vesa, Darlene Bockelman, Janet Boylen, Korrine Gust, Jann Johnson, Cheri Lincoln, Michelle McGregor, Valory Pittenger, Linda Sutton and Cindy Webber.
Many served at Heartbeats Health Fair
(Talk of the Town photo provided)
Parkview Whitley Hospital pharmacy manager Chris Vice, left, and pharmacist Wayne Engdahl help a participant at last Saturday’s Heartbeats Health Fair fill out an emergency health card to keep track of medications, dosage and allergy information. The cards ensure that those who carry a personal medication card will receive safe and appropriate treatment in a timely way. In addition to many screenings, including osteoporosis, skin cancer and even foot exams, 445 blood draws were recorded at the annual health fair, held at the hospital.
May 13, 2011
Successful BABE Travel Raffle draws to a close
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Following brisk ticket sales from a supportive community, the Whitley County BABE program's Travel Raffle came to an end Thursday with the drawing of a grand prize winner. According to BABE director Shawn Ellis, every single one of the 400 available tickets was sold, netting a sizeable sum to aid the non-profit organization that rewards positive parenting choices. Above, Ellis holds the tickets stubs in the air as Steve Hostetler, president of the Columbia City Downtown Business Association, draws a winner. South Whitley resident Mary Martin was the winner and will receive a travel voucher worth $1254 to Odyssey Travel.
Good enough is no longer good enough for Whitley County's children, future
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, Leadership Whitley County alumni and guests learn more about the Whitley Forward initiative put forth by the Whitley County Community Foundation as presented by Lori Shipman, second from right. Below, September McConnell of the Whitley County Community Foundation is a firm believer that for this county, this region, to thrive in the future, a stronger emphasis needs to be put on higher education.
By TRSmith of the Tribune-News
Leadership Whitley County alumni get together on occasion, inviting a guest speaker to talk about a current topic.
There are few hotter topics than northeast Indiana’s economy. Everyone knows someone who has been laid off and desperately seeking employment.
Lori Shipman of the Whitley County Commuity Foundation outlined the organization’s Whitley Forward program, which focuses on advancing science, technology, engineering,and mathmatics, at the Brownstone on State, Friday, May 6.
Attending the meeting were Melinda Woll, Jennifer Zartman Romano, Tania Keirn, Sara Lochner-Goff and Tina Houser.
Whitley Forward’s belief, Shipman said, is that an advanced degree is now mandatory. A high school diploma is no longer “good enough” to get by in today’s global economy.
That statement was backed by September McConnell, Whitley County Foundation executive director, in a telephone conversation earlier this week.
“Northeast Indiana, Whitley County is in the midst of an economic decline,” McConnell said. “Our per capita income has been on a downward slope for the past 15 years. What does this mean? For every dollar the average American worker makes, we now only make 80 cents. Compare this to 1995 when local workers made 99 cents to the nation’s dollar average. This decline must be stopped and reversed.”
The Whitley Forward is the foundations’ board of directors solution, a proactive solution to change attitudes about the STEM subjects, starting with children as young as four- or five-years-old and through their primary and secondary school years.
“The Whitley County Foundation looked to the east, at the defense industry growing in Fort Wayne and to the west, at the thriving bio-medical orthopedics industry in Warsaw,” she said. “These two industries will have wonderful job opportunities in the engineering and advanced manufacturing fields.
“So to meet that demand, we’re preparing a workforce that can acquire those jobs.
“The defense industry has to stay in the US. However, if they don’t have a talented workforce to draw from, they won’t stay here. They are demanding highly skilled workers.”
The foundation board came to the decision that they are capable of strategically addressing issues and they’ll do it through more proactive grant making. The education of the community has become a goal.
And that education is not just for students. It is for parents and grandparents, too.
“We’re trying to change the culture of a community,” McConnell said. “This community seems very tied to the roots that ‘good enough is good enough.’ Maybe this is a reflection of agrarian roots. Times are changing. Good enough isn’t good enough any more.
“It’s really about protecting the future of Whitley County, to compete on a global stage.”
Whitley Forward’s three year goals is to promote the idea that a post secondary education is a necessity, not a maybe. And it doesn’t mean a four-year college, shorter term vocational courses are another way to secure a high-paying job.
A second goal is to provide the school districts with the resources to offer STEM-based courses, to encourage students to embrace science, technology, engineering and math.
“But kids think that if they like math, they have to be come a math teacher,” McConnell said.
McConnell said the area day care workers are trained to show pre-schoolers how to use Lady Bug kits and magnet kits.
A Lego Robotics class at Indiana Springs and Churubusco middle schools has been funded.
At Whitko High School science teacher Melissa Visallai has developed a Project Lead The Way for students interested in the bio medical field.
Funding has been made available for a WHS student to attend an engineering camp this summer.
And all the middle schools have been visited by a Mad Scientist.
“We think the more the message is imparted to the kids by the time they’re in the middle school, the more they’ll be able to embrace the idea.”
Whitley Forward is starting a program finding “STEM champions” in the high schools. Teachers will visit places like Micropulse and Biomet and USSI and share their perceptions with the students.
Because girls don’t often think about science and math careers, Whitley Forward plans to bring successful women engineers, scientists and mathematicians to them.
“I’m so proud of all three school systems in the county,” McConnell said. They understand what it’s going to take. They’re so challenged financially and want to see things unfold.
“Where the school has shortfalls, we’ve made up for that.”
To learn more about STEM opportunities in the region go to Talent Made Here for great resources and videos for students, educators and parents at www.talentmadehere.com To learn more about Whitley Forward, click here.
Faith Christian Academy middle schoolers raising funds for Habitat for Humanity
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Faith Christian Academy's middle school students are hoping to raise funds for Whitley County Habitat for Humanity by hosting a garage sale at the school on Friday, May 20, and Saturday, May 21, 2011.
Friday's sale will be held from noon to 5 p.m. and Saturday's sale will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In addition to garage sale finds, students will also have bedding plants and garden decor, including stepping stones, available for sale. Baked goods and food items will also be available for sale.
The sale will be held at Faith Christian Academy, 1550 East SR 205, just north of US 30 and south of Eagle Glen.
Faith Christian Academy's middle school students are hoping to raise funds for Whitley County Habitat for Humanity by hosting a garage sale at the school on Friday, May 20, and Saturday, May 21, 2011.
Friday's sale will be held from noon to 5 p.m. and Saturday's sale will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In addition to garage sale finds, students will also have bedding plants and garden decor, including stepping stones, available for sale. Baked goods and food items will also be available for sale.
The sale will be held at Faith Christian Academy, 1550 East SR 205, just north of US 30 and south of Eagle Glen.
Folk musicians featured at fourth annual Gospel Fest in Collins on May 29
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Folk musicians Neal and Coleen Walters, below, will be the featured entertainers at Collins United Methodist Church's Gospel Fest on May 29, 2011.
Article provided
The Collins United Methodist Church invites the community to attend the 4th Annual Gospel Fest on Sunday, May 29, 2011, beginning at 4 p.m.
Featured musicians will be Neal and Coleen Walters of Greencastle, Pennsylvania. The couple grew up in Southern California, singing and playing since the 1960s. Their music has been influenced by many different artists and styles of music. Autoharp, dulcimer and banjo are Neal’s instruments of choice and Coleen adds bass to the mix. You’ll hear lots of harmony singing as well as some instrumentals.
They have two duet albums. As half of “Doofus,” they have recorded four albums over the last ten years. Neal was a member of the Mill Run Dulcimer Band for over 20 years and recorded nine albums with them. He also edited “Music Hound Folk: the Essential Album Guide to Folk Music,” published by Visible Ink Press.
In addition to their concert appearances, Neal has taught dulcimer, autoharp, banjo and guitar for nearly thirty years in and around Washington, DC and at camps and festivals like Boone, Augusta, Kentucky Music Week, Winterfest, Summerfest, Black Swamp, Autumn Hills, Autumn Acoustics, Cranberry, String-A-Long, Housatonic, Dulcimer Daze, Swannanoa and Old Songs.
There will be hot dogs, all of the normal condiments (a great chili sauce), chips, veggies, salads and desserts served at 4 p.m. with a FREE concert to follow at 5 p.m. If the weather is fair, all activities will be outside in the pavilion by the church. Of course the Church is always available if the weather turns bad.
The church is located in Collins, located north of Columbia City off SR 205, at 5524 East Darland Street.
For more information, call 693-1104 or for information about Collins United Methodist Church, visit the church website at collinsumchurch.org
Article provided
The Collins United Methodist Church invites the community to attend the 4th Annual Gospel Fest on Sunday, May 29, 2011, beginning at 4 p.m.
Featured musicians will be Neal and Coleen Walters of Greencastle, Pennsylvania. The couple grew up in Southern California, singing and playing since the 1960s. Their music has been influenced by many different artists and styles of music. Autoharp, dulcimer and banjo are Neal’s instruments of choice and Coleen adds bass to the mix. You’ll hear lots of harmony singing as well as some instrumentals.
They have two duet albums. As half of “Doofus,” they have recorded four albums over the last ten years. Neal was a member of the Mill Run Dulcimer Band for over 20 years and recorded nine albums with them. He also edited “Music Hound Folk: the Essential Album Guide to Folk Music,” published by Visible Ink Press.
In addition to their concert appearances, Neal has taught dulcimer, autoharp, banjo and guitar for nearly thirty years in and around Washington, DC and at camps and festivals like Boone, Augusta, Kentucky Music Week, Winterfest, Summerfest, Black Swamp, Autumn Hills, Autumn Acoustics, Cranberry, String-A-Long, Housatonic, Dulcimer Daze, Swannanoa and Old Songs.
There will be hot dogs, all of the normal condiments (a great chili sauce), chips, veggies, salads and desserts served at 4 p.m. with a FREE concert to follow at 5 p.m. If the weather is fair, all activities will be outside in the pavilion by the church. Of course the Church is always available if the weather turns bad.
The church is located in Collins, located north of Columbia City off SR 205, at 5524 East Darland Street.
For more information, call 693-1104 or for information about Collins United Methodist Church, visit the church website at collinsumchurch.org
May 12, 2011
25th annual Indiana Highland Games & Scottish Festival finds new home in Whitley County
(Talk of the Town file photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, a pipe and drum band marches across the field during a past Indiana Highland Games event. Below, an athlete prepares to toss the caber -- a sanctioned athletic event that has more to do with skill than strength, surprisingly.
(Talk of the Town photo by Shawn Ellis) Below, Jennifer Zartman Romano and Mike Huth are co-coordinating the 25th annual Indiana Highland Games & Scottish Festival in Columbia City on Saturday, June 25, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Whitley County 4-H Fairgrounds. The event will be held in conjunction with the Old Settlers Day Festival and thanks to the support of the Whitley County Community Foundation.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Twenty five years ago when a group of British immigrants came together to celebrate their heritage, it's unlikely they ever expected the resulting event, the Indiana Highland Games, to grow to the extent that it has -- nor would they have anticipated the new direction the rich, cultural event will take this year.
Following several months of planning, the Scottish Cultural Society of Northeast Indiana announced today that the 25th annual Indana Highland Games & Scottish Festival will be held on Saturday, June 25, 2011, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Whitley County 4-H Fairgrounds. This marks the first time the state-wide event has been held outside Allen County, yet coordinators for the event are hopeful the event will have found a permanent home in Whitley County. A sure sign has been the level of enthusiasm and support from local residents, businesses and the Whitley County Community Foundation.
"We're really, really excited," said one of the event's coordinators, Mike Huth. Huth said that the event has always had a significant level of support from Whitley County residents and from local businesses, despite being held in Fort Wayne every year. This year, as the event was looking for a new venue, Whitley County seemed the obvious choice. 
"We really see this as a great opportunity to bring something new and different to Whitley County, a community from which many of our athletes have come, where our volunteers live and work," Huth added. "In the past several months we've been working on putting this event together, we've found considerable support within the community from numerous groups and organizations who want us to succeed and who want to attend or be part of the event."
The annual summer event features strong-man style heavy athletics such as caber tossing, tossing of sheaves, stone throwing and the farmer's walk, an event where extremely heavy boulders are lifted and carried the greatest distance. Other features will include bagpipe music, children's activities, family clan tents, genealogy booth, Scottish cuisine and more.
Thanks to a generous grant from the Whitley County Community Foundation, admission to the event will be free in hopes that many residents and families will take an opportunity to participate in this cultural event and, potentially, learn something new about their own heritage.
According to the 2000 Census, an estimated 9.2 million Americans report Scottish or Scottish-Irish ancestry, accounting for nearly 2% of the US population. As a result, there are currently more Americans with Scottish ancestry than there are Scottish people living in Scotland.
For Huth and co-coordinator Jennifer Zartman Romano, their genealogical connection to Scotland is much more recent. Their grandparents were immigrants to Northeast Indiana from Scotland in the 1950s, were close friends and, together, founded the Scottish Cultural Society in 1986 along with many of their other Scottish, Irish, English and Welsh immigrant friends. Having spent many years watching their grandparents lead the event, in many ways it only made sense they would one day take responsibility for the event's direction as well. 
The 25th annual Indiana Highland Games & Scottish Festival will happen in conjunction with the annual Old Settlers Days Festival in Columbia City, a new event in that organization's 107-year tradition.
"There was concensus around the table that this was a great cultural activity for this community," said Whitley County Community Foundation executive director September McConnell. The foundation's grant committee and board of directors approved a grant for the event this week, feeling that it was a unique opportunity to encourage an established, well-organized cultural event in this community. "We really want to see this grow and expand here."
"I'd encourage the community to get down there and participate in the activities and see what all this event has to offer," McConnell said. "It's going to be a great addition to Old Settlers Days. We're really excited about it."
Some high points of the event will include:
- A fully sanctioned highland athletics tournament including a seven event heptathlon consisting of a stone put, weight throws, caber toss and several height events. Annually, it brings in a large number of local athletes, including 8-10 Whitley County athletes, in addition to highland athletes from across the country. Several world record holding athletes and world champions participate and attend the event each year -- and this year will be no exception.
- Scaled down, children-sized highland athletics with prizes awarded to participants. Other crowd participation events will be planned to allow visitors to become part of the experience. A crowd favorite is usually the Farmer's Walk in which participants attempt to carry 250 pound weights through a course. This is not just an event to watch, but something to become part of.
"We also hope to put together several strong man (or woman) competitions in which local stars will vy for the big win," Huth stated.
- Sample an assortment of Scottish baked goods like scones and shortbread.
- To help residents connect with their own Scottish ancestry, we will provide genealogical resources and invite family clan tents to set up and provide information about their family connections, with many spanning generations between the United States and Scotland.
- The Fort Wayne Scottish Pipe & Drum band will perform periodically throughout the day during the festival and will later appear in the American Legion Old Settlers Day parade. The talented members of this organization will also be available to answer questions, give demonstrations and explain their instruments. Additionally, regional highland dancers have been invited to participate in the event in a demonstrative way.
For anyone who's ever attended the Indiana Highland Games in its prior 24 years, this year's event will be similar but somewhat scaled back to account for the venue change and some organizational changes necessitated by the economy. The hope is that through community support, it will continue beyond 2011 and flourish in Whitley County.
For information about vendor booths or volunteering for this event, contact Jennifer Zartman Romano via email at jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com
Historical Society plans D Day event to honor Whitley County's WWII veterans
From reports
The committee for the upcoming D Day Commemoration is still looking for Whitley County WWII Veterans to personally invite to the event.
The program is to be held June 4, 2011, at 10 a.m. on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn in Columbia City.
If you click the red link below, you will find a list of veterans who've confirmed their attendance at the event. Anyone knowing of other veterans not on the list are asked to call the Whitley County Museum at 260-244-6372 on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Please leave a contact number, address and branch of military if possible. Should the veteran have trouble getting around, such as those who may be wheelchair bound or who may have difficulty finding transportation to the event, arrangements are being made with the Whitley County Transit to transport them.
Alles, Dale
Anderson, Donald
Bailey, Ralph
Barney, Bill
Bear, Edwin J
Beers, Adrian
Beers, Ruth (Roberts)
Bennett, Charles Everett
Boggs, Robert Hershel
Borcherding, James A
Boyer, Robert
Braddock, Henry Y
Brock, Robert
Brower, Howard
Collar, Fred I
Cornmesser, Robert
Crawford, Cecil Jr
Culbertson, Donald
Dahms, Bernard
Dear, Frank
Diffendarfer, David Budd
Dunfee, Calvin
Easterday, George
Eckert, Earl B
Feighner, Harold
Ferrell, Donald
Gamble, Paul
Geist, Joe
Gipe, Dick
Glassley, Max
Glassley, Phil
Goodrich, Gerald
Goodrich, Kenneth
Grable, Gerald
Hansen, Carl
Haworth, Richard Julius
Herr, John Benjamin
Herron, Paul
Hess, John M
Hine, John Paul
Hine, Robert Martin
Hollenbaugh, Theda
Jones, Dwight
Jones, Kenneth E
Jones, William Earl
Kessie, Jack
Kiewatt, Richard
Kilby, Roy
Klopfenstein, Don
Lehman, Harold R
Loe, James Eldin
Lohmeyer, Richard E
Long, Joe
Long, Roger
Lundblad, A Keith
McEntire, Earl J
Meyers, Edward J
Miller, E Clayton
Minear, Richard Lee "Doc"
Mitchell, Clarice
Moore, Jack L
Mullett, Harold "Jack"
Norris, Ersil Eugene
Parker, Edwin
Pence, Dale
Pettigrew, Jack
Pittenger, Talbert Wilmot
Ramp, Richard Ira
Reid, Glen
Reid, Marquis, Jr
Roberts, Lawrence
Rudd, Tom T
Rupert, Keith
Schrader, Fred
Sheets, Dale
Sheets, Lester
Sherbahn, Kenneth
Shively, Donald
Stanley, Charles
Steffens, James E
Steman, Ed
Stephens, Don "Joe"
Sullivan, Donald Eugene
Tarleton, Willliam
Thomson, Jack
Walker, Robert
Walters, Duvalle "Bud"
Warner, Jimmie
Waterfall, Clark "Doc"
Weber, Edward E
Weller, Donald
Wells, Homer
Western, Glenn
Wheeler, Bill
Wilkinson, Galen
Wilson, Elmer Raymond
Winters, William
Zolman, Dale
Zolman, Robert
The committee for the upcoming D Day Commemoration is still looking for Whitley County WWII Veterans to personally invite to the event.
The program is to be held June 4, 2011, at 10 a.m. on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn in Columbia City.
If you click the red link below, you will find a list of veterans who've confirmed their attendance at the event. Anyone knowing of other veterans not on the list are asked to call the Whitley County Museum at 260-244-6372 on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Please leave a contact number, address and branch of military if possible. Should the veteran have trouble getting around, such as those who may be wheelchair bound or who may have difficulty finding transportation to the event, arrangements are being made with the Whitley County Transit to transport them.
Names:
Adkins, Walter J "Jake"Alles, Dale
Anderson, Donald
Bailey, Ralph
Barney, Bill
Bear, Edwin J
Beers, Adrian
Beers, Ruth (Roberts)
Bennett, Charles Everett
Boggs, Robert Hershel
Borcherding, James A
Boyer, Robert
Braddock, Henry Y
Brock, Robert
Brower, Howard
Collar, Fred I
Cornmesser, Robert
Crawford, Cecil Jr
Culbertson, Donald
Dahms, Bernard
Dear, Frank
Diffendarfer, David Budd
Dunfee, Calvin
Easterday, George
Eckert, Earl B
Feighner, Harold
Ferrell, Donald
Gamble, Paul
Geist, Joe
Gipe, Dick
Glassley, Max
Glassley, Phil
Goodrich, Gerald
Goodrich, Kenneth
Grable, Gerald
Hansen, Carl
Haworth, Richard Julius
Herr, John Benjamin
Herron, Paul
Hess, John M
Hine, John Paul
Hine, Robert Martin
Hollenbaugh, Theda
Jones, Dwight
Jones, Kenneth E
Jones, William Earl
Kessie, Jack
Kiewatt, Richard
Kilby, Roy
Klopfenstein, Don
Lehman, Harold R
Loe, James Eldin
Lohmeyer, Richard E
Long, Joe
Long, Roger
Lundblad, A Keith
McEntire, Earl J
Meyers, Edward J
Miller, E Clayton
Minear, Richard Lee "Doc"
Mitchell, Clarice
Moore, Jack L
Mullett, Harold "Jack"
Norris, Ersil Eugene
Parker, Edwin
Pence, Dale
Pettigrew, Jack
Pittenger, Talbert Wilmot
Ramp, Richard Ira
Reid, Glen
Reid, Marquis, Jr
Roberts, Lawrence
Rudd, Tom T
Rupert, Keith
Schrader, Fred
Sheets, Dale
Sheets, Lester
Sherbahn, Kenneth
Shively, Donald
Stanley, Charles
Steffens, James E
Steman, Ed
Stephens, Don "Joe"
Sullivan, Donald Eugene
Tarleton, Willliam
Thomson, Jack
Walker, Robert
Walters, Duvalle "Bud"
Warner, Jimmie
Waterfall, Clark "Doc"
Weber, Edward E
Weller, Donald
Wells, Homer
Western, Glenn
Wheeler, Bill
Wilkinson, Galen
Wilson, Elmer Raymond
Winters, William
Zolman, Dale
Zolman, Robert
Rain or shine, Little Swimmers' Community Cookout will go on Saturday evening
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
With an unpredictable weather pattern on the horizon for this weekend, Tammy Azar, coordinator of the annual Donovan Kessler Little Swimmers Community Cookout wants to assure residents the event will go on rain or shine this Saturday, May 14, from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Morsches Park Pavilion.
The fifth annual event raises funds to provide scholarships so that local children can participate in life-saving swim lessons. The event is held in memory of Azar's grandson, Donovan, who tragically drown in a swimming pool several years ago.
Azar's entire family helps to plan the event and this year, Donovan's sister got involved.
"This year, Donovan's big sister, Dixie, is nine years-old and running her own raffle to raise funds. She has five prizes geared toward children and she is selling her tickets for 50 cents a piece," Azar shared.
Azar has been impressed by the generosity of local businesses, collecting more than 50 prizes for drawings the day of the event, including a Peg Perago John Deere Turf Tractor, a $199 Garmin navigation system, two sents of two car washes a month for a year donated by Andy's Carwash, and a $100 shopping spree at Target and Meijer... just to name a few.
Regarding the weather, Azar said, "It may hinder the games outside, but the food, board games and card games will be indoors anyway."
"I'm excited and can barely wait. We are hoping for good weather for the outdoor children's games and face painting," Azar added.
Dinner will include hot dogs or sausage, baked beans, applesauce, chips, beverages and dessert. Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for children.
Last week, the Little Swimmers Fund held a garage sale to raise funds, collecting $540. The fund is maintained at the Whitley County Community Foundation.
With an unpredictable weather pattern on the horizon for this weekend, Tammy Azar, coordinator of the annual Donovan Kessler Little Swimmers Community Cookout wants to assure residents the event will go on rain or shine this Saturday, May 14, from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Morsches Park Pavilion.
The fifth annual event raises funds to provide scholarships so that local children can participate in life-saving swim lessons. The event is held in memory of Azar's grandson, Donovan, who tragically drown in a swimming pool several years ago.
Azar's entire family helps to plan the event and this year, Donovan's sister got involved.
"This year, Donovan's big sister, Dixie, is nine years-old and running her own raffle to raise funds. She has five prizes geared toward children and she is selling her tickets for 50 cents a piece," Azar shared.
Azar has been impressed by the generosity of local businesses, collecting more than 50 prizes for drawings the day of the event, including a Peg Perago John Deere Turf Tractor, a $199 Garmin navigation system, two sents of two car washes a month for a year donated by Andy's Carwash, and a $100 shopping spree at Target and Meijer... just to name a few.
Regarding the weather, Azar said, "It may hinder the games outside, but the food, board games and card games will be indoors anyway."
"I'm excited and can barely wait. We are hoping for good weather for the outdoor children's games and face painting," Azar added.
Dinner will include hot dogs or sausage, baked beans, applesauce, chips, beverages and dessert. Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for children.
Last week, the Little Swimmers Fund held a garage sale to raise funds, collecting $540. The fund is maintained at the Whitley County Community Foundation.
Chain-O-Lakes Barbershop Chorus presents two shows this Sunday at the Peabody Public Library
(Talk of the Town photo provided) The Chain-O-Lakes Barbershop Chorus, shown above, will perform two concerts this Sunday at the Peabody Public Library.
By Mike Lewis
The Chain-O-Lakes Barbershop Chorus will present two performances of “Experiencing Technical Difficulties,” a rollicking, humorous show with barbershop singing, dramatic “acting” and a few hi-jinks.
Performances will be held at the Peabody Library in Columbia City at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., this Sunday, May 15, 2011. Tickets are $10 for each performance and can be obtained from any chapter member or by calling 877-778-9647. Students can purchase tickets for $5 with a current ID.
Tickets are going fast, so purchase yours today!
A portion of the proceeds from the two shows will be donated to the Whitley County and Kosciusko County food banks.
The Chain-O-Lakes Barbershop Chorus is now on Facebook! Become a fan today - click here.
May 11, 2011
Parliamentary Law and Literary Club hosts final meeting until autumn
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
The Parliamentary Law and Literary Society met for the final time this spring on Tuesday afternoon, preparing to observe their summer break. Among the oldest organizations continually in existance, the club was founded in 1897 in Columbia City. The 21 founders were eager for an opportunity to socialize and to accomplish things previously known only to men. "They were really incredible women in their time," said Nancy Reiff, a current member of the club. The club was originally very heavy on the parliamentary law practice and following Roberts Rules of Order, but has become for literary focused in recent years. There are 22 members in all and one guest attended Tuesday's meeting, Danielle Oliver.
Attending Tuesday's final meeting of the spring were, from left, Sally Grissom, Danielle Oliver, Susan McClish, Jayne Oliver, Marge Pence, Jan Morsches, Aileen Meier, Beth Bloom, Carol Nolan, Lynn Walker, Rosemary Steiner, Jan Hammer, Mary Trier, Carol Ball, Gayle Bloom, Carolyn Hughes, Judy Whiteleather, Judie Gates, Laura Lefever, Rae McCay, Pat Groves, Nancy Reiff and Laurel Steill.
Alexandria Dryer, May Cheng named top students in the Columbia City High School Class of 2011
(Talk of the Town photos provided)
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
As the end of the academic year draws to a close, each graduating class recognizes the top two students' academic success.
Today, Columbia City High School announced that Alexandria Kathleen Dryer has been named class valedictorian and May Cheng has been named class salutatorian for the Class of 2011.
Dryer is the daughter of Jeffrey and Sharon Dryer. She attended Northern Heights Elementary School and Indian Springs Middle School prior to CCHS. She intends to pursue a degree in Classical Studies from the University of Evansville. She also hopes to spend some of her academic career in England.
Cheng is the daughter of Ray and Amy Cheng. A native of Hong Kong, she emigrated to the United States at the age of three. She attended Coesse Elementary School and Indian Springs Middle School before attending CCHS. She plans to attend Indiana University, Bloomington, where she will pursue a degree in History.
Dryer and Cheng will both speak during the 2011 Commencement Ceremony at Columbia City High School on June 10 at 6 p.m. in the gymnasium.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
As the end of the academic year draws to a close, each graduating class recognizes the top two students' academic success.
Today, Columbia City High School announced that Alexandria Kathleen Dryer has been named class valedictorian and May Cheng has been named class salutatorian for the Class of 2011.
Dryer is the daughter of Jeffrey and Sharon Dryer. She attended Northern Heights Elementary School and Indian Springs Middle School prior to CCHS. She intends to pursue a degree in Classical Studies from the University of Evansville. She also hopes to spend some of her academic career in England.
Cheng is the daughter of Ray and Amy Cheng. A native of Hong Kong, she emigrated to the United States at the age of three. She attended Coesse Elementary School and Indian Springs Middle School before attending CCHS. She plans to attend Indiana University, Bloomington, where she will pursue a degree in History.
Dryer and Cheng will both speak during the 2011 Commencement Ceremony at Columbia City High School on June 10 at 6 p.m. in the gymnasium.
Governor reduces state's corporate income tax rate by 25%
By Blair West
Governor Mitch Daniels this week signed HB 1004, reducing Indiana's corporate income tax rate from 8.5 percent to 6.5 percent, a decrease of nearly 25 percent.
The measure, sponsored by Sen. Brandt Hershman, will begin reducing the Indiana corporate tax rate by 0.5 percent per year over the next four years to a final rate of 6.5 percent.
"While other states are raising taxes to deal with major budget shortfalls, Governor Mitch Daniels and Indiana's General Assembly were able to cut taxes and improve our state's jobs climate, all while passing a balanced budget. Indiana's business environment already ranks near the top of the pack in most every third-party analysis and this reduction will only strengthen our reputation as a place to invest and create jobs," said Mitch Roob, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.
Indiana's corporate income tax reduction comes just four months after neighboring state Illinois increased its business tax burden from 7.3 percent to 9.5 percent, a rate that gives the state the fourth-highest combined national-local corporate income tax rate in the industrialized world, according to the Tax Foundation.
"By reducing the tax burden for businesses we are sending a strong message to company decision-makers from coast-to-coast and around the world that Indiana is serious about competing for their business and will continue to work to make our state the best possible place to grow," said Hershman.
Since Governor Daniels was elected in 2004, he has taken several measures to improve the state's attractiveness for business. Among them include:
• Increased R&D tax credit - Provides a tax credit equal to 15 percent of a company's first $1 million of qualifying R&D expenditures, giving Indiana one of the highest R&D tax credit percentages in the country. (2005)
• R&D Sales Tax Exemption - Exempts purchases of eligible research and development equipment from the Indiana state sales tax. (2005)
• Single Sales Factor Corporate Tax - The single-sales factor apportionment calculates the Indiana portion of corporate taxes based solely on the portion of a company's sales in Indiana. (2006)
• Major Moves - Indiana is the only state in the nation with a record-breaking, fully-funded 10-year infrastructure improvement plan that includes the construction or renovation of more than 400 roads and bridges - all without raising taxes or borrowing money. (2006)
• Telecommunications Reform - Indiana's Telecommunications Deregulation Act has made the state a national leader in telecom reform by increasing competition among carriers, resulting in lower prices, new investments and new jobs. (2006)
• Property Tax Relief - Cut property taxes by one third and established a constitutional cap on tax rates for all classes of property. (2008, 2010)
These measures, coupled with years of balanced budgets and fiscal discipline, have earned the state a AAA credit rating from all three bond rating agencies, a first in state history.
The corporate income tax reduction news comes on the same week that Amazon.com cited Indiana's business-friendly policies as the reason it will open a 900,000-square-foot internet order fulfillment center in Indianapolis this summer, bringing hundreds of jobs.
Governor Mitch Daniels this week signed HB 1004, reducing Indiana's corporate income tax rate from 8.5 percent to 6.5 percent, a decrease of nearly 25 percent.
The measure, sponsored by Sen. Brandt Hershman, will begin reducing the Indiana corporate tax rate by 0.5 percent per year over the next four years to a final rate of 6.5 percent.
"While other states are raising taxes to deal with major budget shortfalls, Governor Mitch Daniels and Indiana's General Assembly were able to cut taxes and improve our state's jobs climate, all while passing a balanced budget. Indiana's business environment already ranks near the top of the pack in most every third-party analysis and this reduction will only strengthen our reputation as a place to invest and create jobs," said Mitch Roob, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.
Indiana's corporate income tax reduction comes just four months after neighboring state Illinois increased its business tax burden from 7.3 percent to 9.5 percent, a rate that gives the state the fourth-highest combined national-local corporate income tax rate in the industrialized world, according to the Tax Foundation.
"By reducing the tax burden for businesses we are sending a strong message to company decision-makers from coast-to-coast and around the world that Indiana is serious about competing for their business and will continue to work to make our state the best possible place to grow," said Hershman.
Since Governor Daniels was elected in 2004, he has taken several measures to improve the state's attractiveness for business. Among them include:
• Increased R&D tax credit - Provides a tax credit equal to 15 percent of a company's first $1 million of qualifying R&D expenditures, giving Indiana one of the highest R&D tax credit percentages in the country. (2005)
• R&D Sales Tax Exemption - Exempts purchases of eligible research and development equipment from the Indiana state sales tax. (2005)
• Single Sales Factor Corporate Tax - The single-sales factor apportionment calculates the Indiana portion of corporate taxes based solely on the portion of a company's sales in Indiana. (2006)
• Major Moves - Indiana is the only state in the nation with a record-breaking, fully-funded 10-year infrastructure improvement plan that includes the construction or renovation of more than 400 roads and bridges - all without raising taxes or borrowing money. (2006)
• Telecommunications Reform - Indiana's Telecommunications Deregulation Act has made the state a national leader in telecom reform by increasing competition among carriers, resulting in lower prices, new investments and new jobs. (2006)
• Property Tax Relief - Cut property taxes by one third and established a constitutional cap on tax rates for all classes of property. (2008, 2010)
These measures, coupled with years of balanced budgets and fiscal discipline, have earned the state a AAA credit rating from all three bond rating agencies, a first in state history.
The corporate income tax reduction news comes on the same week that Amazon.com cited Indiana's business-friendly policies as the reason it will open a 900,000-square-foot internet order fulfillment center in Indianapolis this summer, bringing hundreds of jobs.
May 10, 2011
Alan Pedersen to perform in concert in Columbia City Wednesday
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Recording artist and songwriter Alan Pedersen will be performing in concert Wednesday, May 11, at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral home.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Award winning songwriter and recording artist Alan Pedersen will perform in concert at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 11, 2011, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The public is invited to attend and participate in this free concert event to promote hope and healing.
Pedersen's only daughter, Ashley, was tragically killed in an automobile accident in 2001 -- forever changing his life and taking it in a direction he never imagined. A journey of mourning and finding joy in his life resulted in three acclaimed CDs of original music.
Additionally, Pedersen has been serving as a keynote speaker and workshop presenter in numerous conferences across the US and internationally as well. He spoke at the World Gathering on Bereavement, the Compassionate Friends National Conference and the National Gathering of Bereaved Parents of the USA.
"We were put on this earth to love them for as long as we live, not for as long as they lived," Pedersen said.
Pedersen will speak about being a bereaved parent, his journey with grief and present powerful songs. The event is part of his "Angels Across the USA Tour."
"Alan's songs touch the heart of all bereaved, and I think you will find his music meaningful in your grief journey," said Sharon Brockhaus, grief facilitator for DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Award winning songwriter and recording artist Alan Pedersen will perform in concert at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 11, 2011, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The public is invited to attend and participate in this free concert event to promote hope and healing.
Pedersen's only daughter, Ashley, was tragically killed in an automobile accident in 2001 -- forever changing his life and taking it in a direction he never imagined. A journey of mourning and finding joy in his life resulted in three acclaimed CDs of original music.
Additionally, Pedersen has been serving as a keynote speaker and workshop presenter in numerous conferences across the US and internationally as well. He spoke at the World Gathering on Bereavement, the Compassionate Friends National Conference and the National Gathering of Bereaved Parents of the USA.
"We were put on this earth to love them for as long as we live, not for as long as they lived," Pedersen said.
Pedersen will speak about being a bereaved parent, his journey with grief and present powerful songs. The event is part of his "Angels Across the USA Tour."
"Alan's songs touch the heart of all bereaved, and I think you will find his music meaningful in your grief journey," said Sharon Brockhaus, grief facilitator for DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home.
Snapshots: Opening Day at the Whitley County Farmers Market
LWC alumni, guests explore Whitley Forward
(Talk of the Town mobile photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Leadership Whitley County alumni and guests met Friday afternoon at The Brownstone in South Whitley to learn more about the Whitley Forward initiative. Lori Shipman of Whitley Forward told how local residents can have an impact on the numbers of local students pursuing higher education and seeking careers in science, technology, engineering and math. Clockwise, above from left, is Tina Houser, Sara Lochner-Goff, Teresa Smith, Melinda Woll, Lori Shipman and Tania Keirn. Following Shipman's presentation, attendees had an opportunity to ask questions and share perspectives about changing the future of Whitley County.
Congressman Donnelly's announcement came early in Whitley County
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
He may have made his announcement officially yesterday, but second district Congressman Joe Donnelly of South Bend let local Democrats know of his intentions, albeit accidentally, on Saturday, April 30, during the Third District Democratic Dinner held at the Eagles Nest Event Center in Columbia City, above. Donnelly spoke before a crowd of about 400 supporters from northeast Indiana, saying "when...(pause)...if" he decided to run for Senator Richard Lugar's seat in the US Senate. It was clear his announcement at that time was not meant to be public, but the applause from the audience may have helped solidify his plans. Donnelly announced formally yesterday that he intends to seek the Democratic nomination to run for the US Senate.
The Oaks to host ‘culture change’ session to address patient-centered care concerns
Article provided
In an effort to promote culture change in long-term care through consumer education, Parkview Whitley Hospital’s long-term care facility The Oaks has been invited by the Indiana Culture Change Coalition (ICCC) to host a “culture change consumer education session.” The Oaks will host the meeting on Tuesday, May 26, 2011.
Ten facilities in the state of Indiana have been selected by the ICCC to host the sessions, and Indiana is one of just 22 states in the nation selected to participate.
The project, titled “Creating Home: Advocating for Change in How and Where We Age,” is a two-phase project. The phase-one period was March 1, 2009, through February 28, 2010. The Indiana Culture Change Coalition volunteered to participate in “Changing the Culture of Aging Phase 2: Next Steps to Supporting Knowledgeable Consumers.”
The project is funded by The Picker Institute, Inc., through the Pioneer Network. The Picker Institute is an international nonprofit organization based in Massachusetts that supports research and education in the field of patient-centered care. The Pioneer Network is a not-for-profit organization based in Chicago and Washington, D.C., and is dedicated to making fundamental changes in values and practices in patient-centered care.
“This is an honor for us to be asked to host one of the meetings,” said Chad Smyth, The Oaks’ executive director. “The Pioneer Network is nationally recognized as a leading think tank for culture change in nursing homes.”
“Culture change” is the common name given to the national movement for the transformation of older adult services, based on person-directed values and practices where the voices of elders and those working with them are considered and respected. Core person-directed values are choice, dignity, respect, self-determination and purposeful living.
Culture change transformation supports the creation of both long- and short-term living environments as well as community-based settings where both older adults and their caregivers are able to express choice and practice self-determination in meaningful ways at every level of daily life.
Culture change transformation may require changes in organization practices, physical environments, relationships at all levels and workforce models, leading to better outcomes for consumers and direct-care workers without inflicting detrimental costs on providers.
In an effort to promote culture change in long-term care through consumer education, Parkview Whitley Hospital’s long-term care facility The Oaks has been invited by the Indiana Culture Change Coalition (ICCC) to host a “culture change consumer education session.” The Oaks will host the meeting on Tuesday, May 26, 2011.
Ten facilities in the state of Indiana have been selected by the ICCC to host the sessions, and Indiana is one of just 22 states in the nation selected to participate.
The project, titled “Creating Home: Advocating for Change in How and Where We Age,” is a two-phase project. The phase-one period was March 1, 2009, through February 28, 2010. The Indiana Culture Change Coalition volunteered to participate in “Changing the Culture of Aging Phase 2: Next Steps to Supporting Knowledgeable Consumers.”
The project is funded by The Picker Institute, Inc., through the Pioneer Network. The Picker Institute is an international nonprofit organization based in Massachusetts that supports research and education in the field of patient-centered care. The Pioneer Network is a not-for-profit organization based in Chicago and Washington, D.C., and is dedicated to making fundamental changes in values and practices in patient-centered care.
“This is an honor for us to be asked to host one of the meetings,” said Chad Smyth, The Oaks’ executive director. “The Pioneer Network is nationally recognized as a leading think tank for culture change in nursing homes.”
“Culture change” is the common name given to the national movement for the transformation of older adult services, based on person-directed values and practices where the voices of elders and those working with them are considered and respected. Core person-directed values are choice, dignity, respect, self-determination and purposeful living.
Culture change transformation supports the creation of both long- and short-term living environments as well as community-based settings where both older adults and their caregivers are able to express choice and practice self-determination in meaningful ways at every level of daily life.
Culture change transformation may require changes in organization practices, physical environments, relationships at all levels and workforce models, leading to better outcomes for consumers and direct-care workers without inflicting detrimental costs on providers.
Indiana ranked as top place to do business in the Midwest, sixth best in the nation
By Blair West
Indiana was ranked as the best place to do business in the Midwest and the sixth best nationwide in a survey of more than 500 chief executives by Chief Executive magazine.
The magazine's seventh annual "Best & Worst States" survey asks CEO's to evaluate states based on business tax policies, regulation, workforce quality and livability factors. Indiana's 2011 ranking is up from 16th place in 2010. It's among the highest year-to-year improvements in the survey.
"This ranking is a validation of the work that Governor Daniels and the General Assembly are doing to make Indiana the best possible place to do business," said Mitch Roob, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. "Amazon's major investment announcement this week tells us that above all else, business climate matters and the pay-off for Hoosiers is new jobs and investment."
Indiana's 6th place ranking makes it the only Midwestern state in the publication's top 10. Among neighboring states, Kentucky ranked 17th, Ohio ranked 41st, Michigan ranked 46th and Illinois ranked 48th.
The Chief Executive magazine rankings come less than a week after the state announced that it was the recipient of a 2011 Gold Shovel Award from Area Development magazine. The publication's top honor for economic development efforts, the Gold Shovel was awarded based on the state's 2010 performance in categories including total job creation, job creation per-capita, new capital investment and number of new facilities.
Chief Executive magazine is a bi-monthly publication for top management executives published by the Chief Executive Group LLC. Founded in 1977, the Chief Executive Group LLC is headquartered in Greenwich, Conn. The "Best & Worst States," survey results are available at: http://chiefexecutive.net/best-worst-states-for-business
Indiana was ranked as the best place to do business in the Midwest and the sixth best nationwide in a survey of more than 500 chief executives by Chief Executive magazine.
The magazine's seventh annual "Best & Worst States" survey asks CEO's to evaluate states based on business tax policies, regulation, workforce quality and livability factors. Indiana's 2011 ranking is up from 16th place in 2010. It's among the highest year-to-year improvements in the survey.
"This ranking is a validation of the work that Governor Daniels and the General Assembly are doing to make Indiana the best possible place to do business," said Mitch Roob, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. "Amazon's major investment announcement this week tells us that above all else, business climate matters and the pay-off for Hoosiers is new jobs and investment."
Indiana's 6th place ranking makes it the only Midwestern state in the publication's top 10. Among neighboring states, Kentucky ranked 17th, Ohio ranked 41st, Michigan ranked 46th and Illinois ranked 48th.
The Chief Executive magazine rankings come less than a week after the state announced that it was the recipient of a 2011 Gold Shovel Award from Area Development magazine. The publication's top honor for economic development efforts, the Gold Shovel was awarded based on the state's 2010 performance in categories including total job creation, job creation per-capita, new capital investment and number of new facilities.
Chief Executive magazine is a bi-monthly publication for top management executives published by the Chief Executive Group LLC. Founded in 1977, the Chief Executive Group LLC is headquartered in Greenwich, Conn. The "Best & Worst States," survey results are available at: http://chiefexecutive.net/best-worst-states-for-business
May 09, 2011
She calls it 'goin' showin' syndrome'...
Esteemed Talk of the Town columnist Kelley Sheiss brings us her latest Musing from the Mud Room today...a discussion about the compelling interest she has in matters of the livestock show ring. Click here to read it!
BABE program honored by Whitley County Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors
(Talk of the Town photo by Michelle Culbertson) A larger group of BABE board members and staff as well as representatives of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce gathered in April to celebrate the BABE program, above. The organization was selected as the 2011 April Business/Non-profit of the Month.
By Michelle Culbertson
The Whitley County Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors recently selected the Whitley County BABE program as the 2011 April Business/Non-profit of the Month.
BABE is a local non-profit which provides goods and services to all pregnant women and all families in Whitley County with children between the ages of birth to 5 years. By providing diapers, wipes, cribs, high chairs, etc., as well as connections to local agencies and services, BABE’s goal is to see that all families in Whitley County get a healthy start. In order to meet the growing demand, satellite programs have been launched in Churubusco and South Whitley.
Executive Director Shawn Ellis, along with her 3 employees and approximately 20 volunteers, has grown this organization since its inception in 2001 in order to provide infant/toddler-related items through a coupon incentive program.
BABE staff, volunteers and board members seek to meet the families “where they are” with a mission to encourage them in their growth toward stronger and healthier families.
Enjoying tremendous growth in their organization over the past year, BABE recently gained their own 501(c)3 non-profit status and, last year, moved to the agency's new new home on the corner of Jefferson and Main Streets.
Those who attended the awards presentation included Shawn Ellis, BABE executive director; BABE staff and members of the board of directors, Sara Lochner-Goff, Chamber president; and Chamber Ambassadors Tina Houser, LT Foundations & Real Estate; Jennifer Zartman Romano, Talk of the Town; Kristi
Maloney, Sycamore Village & BABE board member; Jo Robertson, Midwest America Federal Credit Union; Cari Wells, 1st Source Bank; June Keiser, J&J Insurance Solutions; Lee Aumsbaugh, Aumsbaugh Flooring; and Randy Holler, Crossroads Bank.
Expect road on SR 114 near 200 East and 700 South, work to be completed mid-August
By Stacie DelaCuesta
The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) Fort Wayne District announced Friday that SR 114 between North 200 East and South 700 East will be closed for numerous structure replacements in both Huntington and Whitley counties.
The detour route follows SR 9 to US 24 and adds about 15 miles for thru traffic. The project is expected to be complete mid-August.
The project begins on the heels of Highway Work Zone Safety Awareness week. On average four out of every five people killed in highway work zones are drivers or passengers, not highway workers, so INDOT is joining with traffic safety personnel nationwide to stress “Safer Driving. Safer Work Zones. For Everyone.” According to the latest Indiana Crash Facts publication, 12 people were killed and 602 people were injured in work zone crashes during 2010.
To avoid becoming a statistic, INDOT urges drivers to follow the safety tips listed below while driving through work zones. Additional information can be found at INDOT’s work zone safety website, www.WorkZoneSafety.IN.gov.
The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) Fort Wayne District announced Friday that SR 114 between North 200 East and South 700 East will be closed for numerous structure replacements in both Huntington and Whitley counties.
The detour route follows SR 9 to US 24 and adds about 15 miles for thru traffic. The project is expected to be complete mid-August.
The project begins on the heels of Highway Work Zone Safety Awareness week. On average four out of every five people killed in highway work zones are drivers or passengers, not highway workers, so INDOT is joining with traffic safety personnel nationwide to stress “Safer Driving. Safer Work Zones. For Everyone.” According to the latest Indiana Crash Facts publication, 12 people were killed and 602 people were injured in work zone crashes during 2010.
To avoid becoming a statistic, INDOT urges drivers to follow the safety tips listed below while driving through work zones. Additional information can be found at INDOT’s work zone safety website, www.WorkZoneSafety.IN.gov.
CC Deli's Soups of the Week
The CC Deli will be serving Reuben sandwiches from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday this week.
What follows are the CC Deli Soups of the Week:
Monday - Tomato Tortellini and French Onion*
Tuesday - Smokey Poblano and Stuffed Pepper
Wednesday - White Chili* and Cheesy Potato
Thursday - Broccoli & Cheese and Chicken Noodle
Friday - Veggie Beef* and Clam Chowder
*denotes the soups that are gluten free.
What follows are the CC Deli Soups of the Week:
Monday - Tomato Tortellini and French Onion*
Tuesday - Smokey Poblano and Stuffed Pepper
Wednesday - White Chili* and Cheesy Potato
Thursday - Broccoli & Cheese and Chicken Noodle
Friday - Veggie Beef* and Clam Chowder
*denotes the soups that are gluten free.
May 08, 2011
Great theatre
Day camp and specialty camp options abound at Whitley County Family YMCA this summer
The Whitley County Family YMCA is your summer fun headquarters. Take advantage of day camp, specialty camps or other activities.
At the Y Day Camp, a child discovers that his or her value is not based on performance, nor is it based on appearance, talent or skills. At Y Day Camp, children are valued as individuals and as a result, they experience the freedom and joy of being accepted. Weekly themes and field trips are planned to highlight your child’s experience. Field trips include Deep River Water Park, Smith Field airport, Pine Lake, a Tin Caps game and more. The Whitley County Family YMCA is accepting registrations now for summer day camp which begins June 13, 2011, and runs through August 12. Day camp is open to children ages 5-12 from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Daily and weekly fees are available and sibling discounts are given. Early bird registration ends May 20. To register, stop by the Y.
We also recognize that a lot can be learned over the summer. We offer a Leaders In Training Camp for grades 6-8. These campers meet Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. throughout the summer. The goal of Leaders In Training is to develop leadership skills that these young people will use throughout their lives to help others and themselves. Campers will participate in volunteering throughout the community.
If you are looking for a camp to highlight your child’s favorite activity, check out our Specialty Camps. Week long Specialty Camps are also offered throughout the summer from 1 to 4:30 p.m. including:
• Preschool Camp-June 20-24 and August 1-5 (ages 3-5)
• Little Scrappers Scrapbooking Camp-June 13-17 (ages 6-11)
• Little Picasso Art Camp-June 27-July 1 (ages 6-11)
• All BOY Adventure Camp-July 18-22 (ages 8-11)
• Cheer Camp-July 11-15 (ages 4-6) and July 25-29 (ages 7-10)
Whether your child attends our summer long day camp or a specialty camp, the experience will play an important role in your child’s life. Lifelong memories and friends will be formed. For more information, call 244-9622.
The Y is committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
At the Y Day Camp, a child discovers that his or her value is not based on performance, nor is it based on appearance, talent or skills. At Y Day Camp, children are valued as individuals and as a result, they experience the freedom and joy of being accepted. Weekly themes and field trips are planned to highlight your child’s experience. Field trips include Deep River Water Park, Smith Field airport, Pine Lake, a Tin Caps game and more. The Whitley County Family YMCA is accepting registrations now for summer day camp which begins June 13, 2011, and runs through August 12. Day camp is open to children ages 5-12 from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Daily and weekly fees are available and sibling discounts are given. Early bird registration ends May 20. To register, stop by the Y.
We also recognize that a lot can be learned over the summer. We offer a Leaders In Training Camp for grades 6-8. These campers meet Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. throughout the summer. The goal of Leaders In Training is to develop leadership skills that these young people will use throughout their lives to help others and themselves. Campers will participate in volunteering throughout the community.
If you are looking for a camp to highlight your child’s favorite activity, check out our Specialty Camps. Week long Specialty Camps are also offered throughout the summer from 1 to 4:30 p.m. including:
• Preschool Camp-June 20-24 and August 1-5 (ages 3-5)
• Little Scrappers Scrapbooking Camp-June 13-17 (ages 6-11)
• Little Picasso Art Camp-June 27-July 1 (ages 6-11)
• All BOY Adventure Camp-July 18-22 (ages 8-11)
• Cheer Camp-July 11-15 (ages 4-6) and July 25-29 (ages 7-10)
Whether your child attends our summer long day camp or a specialty camp, the experience will play an important role in your child’s life. Lifelong memories and friends will be formed. For more information, call 244-9622.
The Y is committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
Extension office offering ServSafe certification
The Whitley County Purdue Extension office will be offering ServSafe Certification class on May 11, 2011, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on May 12 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The classes will be offered at the extension office at 115 South Line Street in Columbia City. A test for all participants will be offered on May 18 at 8:30 a.m. for certification.
Registration is required by calling 317-673-4211 or 1-800-678-1957 or via email info@indianarestaurants.org or online at www.indianarestaurants.org.
Registration is required by calling 317-673-4211 or 1-800-678-1957 or via email info@indianarestaurants.org or online at www.indianarestaurants.org.
May 07, 2011
Meeting will explain road plans, dust control project
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The community is invited to learn more about plans for local roadways at a special meeting on Wednesday, May 11, at 6:30 p.m. at the Whitley County Government Center Building.
"We'll do what we've done for the past few years. Show maps, what we're going to do first," said county highway superintendent Michael Barton. "We'll also talk about the calcium chloride program and what people can do with that this year."
According to Barton, the county, for a number of years, sprayed 200 feet of calcium chloride in front of every home on a gravel road to keep dust at a minimum for homeowners.
"This might not last forever with the economy going the way it's going," Barton added. Anyone who wants additional footage down, that will be sold in 100 ft. increments for $78. To pay for that, call 1-574-267-2286.
"It's good that it's free (for 200 foot), but if you want to stop all dust, it probably takes 300 feet. That stops dust and should entirely keep dust away from their home or laundry."
At previous meetings presented by the highway department regarding road repair plans, upwards of 75 people have attended. This will be the third year for the meeting.
"It will hopefully bring in a lot of people who have questions. The commissioners will also be on hand to answer any questions they can," Barton concluded.
The community is invited to learn more about plans for local roadways at a special meeting on Wednesday, May 11, at 6:30 p.m. at the Whitley County Government Center Building.
"We'll do what we've done for the past few years. Show maps, what we're going to do first," said county highway superintendent Michael Barton. "We'll also talk about the calcium chloride program and what people can do with that this year."
According to Barton, the county, for a number of years, sprayed 200 feet of calcium chloride in front of every home on a gravel road to keep dust at a minimum for homeowners.
"This might not last forever with the economy going the way it's going," Barton added. Anyone who wants additional footage down, that will be sold in 100 ft. increments for $78. To pay for that, call 1-574-267-2286.
"It's good that it's free (for 200 foot), but if you want to stop all dust, it probably takes 300 feet. That stops dust and should entirely keep dust away from their home or laundry."
At previous meetings presented by the highway department regarding road repair plans, upwards of 75 people have attended. This will be the third year for the meeting.
"It will hopefully bring in a lot of people who have questions. The commissioners will also be on hand to answer any questions they can," Barton concluded.
Whitley County Farmers Market opens today on the courthouse square
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
A rite of Spring, the Whitley County Farmers Market opens today, Saturday, May 7, in downtown Columbia City.
The market will be open from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. today and every Saturday through early October.
A ribbon cutting ceremony will be hosted by the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce this morning at 8 a.m. near the gazebo and any vendor or resident is welcome to participate.
According to market master Chris Lilly, this year's market will feature more than 40 vendors -- including your favorite booths to visit each year and a variety of new vendors, bringing with them a wide variety of bedding plants, crafts, produce and more.
Several non-profit organizations will be doing fundraisers at the market this morning, including Faith Christian Academy. FCA will host a Nelson's chicken barbecue at the market from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. selling chicken halves for $6 and pit-roasted potatoes for $3.50. All proceeds support the non-denominational Christian school.
May 06, 2011
Everything Shakespeare...
Council, Commissioners vote in favor of 5-year, $1.5 million dollar EMS deal with Parkview
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Whitley County Council and Commissioners met jointly Thursday to hash out concerns about EMS service in Whitley County, voting for Parkview to manage the program for the next five years. Seated clockwise around the table, above, were Commissioner Don Amber, Commissioner George Schrumpf, Councilman John Barrett, Councilman Jim Bayman, Councilman Glen Larue, Councilman Tom Western, Councilman Bill Overdeer and Councilwoman Paula Reimers. Commissioner Tom Rethlake and Councilman Kim Wheeler were present, but not shown above.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Whitley County Commissioners and Council members met Thursday to discuss and finalize a vote on the matter of EMS service for the county over the next five years.
On the table: a proposal to continue allowing Parkview Whitley Hospital to continue managing the EMS service to the county for five years and a proposal that would put ownership and management of the program into the county's hands entirely.
"We're looking at this primarily as a money issue -- but I think we need to look at it as a monetary and a quality issue," said Commissioner George Schrumpf. "We'd be remiss as a county if we didn't look at the quality even more so."
Schrumpf said he felt the county could do better to monitor the quality of EMS service, response times and the employees. "We need to provide oversight to this system and not just turn it over to Parkview," Schrumpf said. "There are issues we need to address."
In considering the current agreement with Parkview, councilman Jim Bayman described it as a "runaway train."
"My biggest fear is complacency with the hospital," Bayman said. "It's like 'you need us and here they come with a bill.' I favor taking it over to run ourselves. I think we can run it."
Amber further explained how the county-run system would work, telling fellow Commissioners and Council members that by his estimations, it would cost the county roughly $252,000 per year to operate it's own EMS program. Amber knows the ins and outs of EMS service better than anyone -- he's been involved in Whitley County's EMS service since 1984. Amber served the program as a director for many years when the county did own the program entirely and has been involved for many years as they've paid Parkview to manage the program. He reiterated that he would not be involved in the management of the program whether it was county-managed or Parkview-managed. "I will help in any way with my expertise, but this is not Don Amber's program," he said.
A sticking point for Council member Paula Reimers involved the human resource elements of bringing employees from the Parkview wages and benefits over to what would be manageable for the county to fun -- and what problems could arise from pay inconsistencies between the would-be new paramedic and EMT wages versus pay scales for existing departments such as the Sheriff's Department.
A concern addressed by Councilman Tom Western involved proposed coverage areas. He said he felt that if Whitley County owned the program, they should not be providing EMS service in Allen, Noble, Kosciusko or other surrounding counties -- counties that currently do occasionally receive service from ambulances dispatched out of Whitley County. Amber was in strong disagreement with Western, saying that a patient's need for ambulance service that is adjacent to them should trump county lines in emergency situations.
"I don't agree with cutting expenses at the expense of patients," Amber said.
Discussion among Council and Commissioners continued for over an hour and then citizens in attendance were given an opportunity to speak.
"I'm very encouraged by the discussion you are having," said resident Charles Addison. "I think quite a bit like Don Amber does. The one concern I have is accountability. Parkview's track record hasn't been too good."
Resident Jerry Walker asked about an oversight committee that once existed as a sort of watchdog for county interests and community interests with regard to the EMS program as it was being managed by Parkview. He was told that an oversight committee existed, but that it was not the same one that existed years ago. The current one is made up of Bill Overdeer, RD Schrader, Duane Ginder, Scott Gabriel and Tom Rethlake.
"I'm sitting here as a taxpayer saying, 'This is the oversight committee of the future?' I'm not sure I'm comfortable with that," Walker said. "It's political."
Walker said he'd like to see a different oversight committee formed that might look more directly at quality issues and that might be more representative of the citizens of Whitley County. Such a committee might be comprised of three county government officials, one citizen and one hospital representative.
In considering all of what was said and each of the proposals, Walker added, "I'd hate to think I'd have to call Whitley County Transit to get to Parkview one day."
"I appreciate you taking Parkview to task for changes you're being billed for," said resident Sandy Ferrell. Ferrell reminded the Commissioners and Council that prior to Parkview's involvement in local EMS service, the Whitley County EMS program was among the best programs in the state.
"No matter what system we use (county-managed or Parkview-managed), it's gonna cost Whitley County taxpayers," said Councilman Bill Overdeer.
Looking at each elected official around the table, Amber said, "Nearly everyone up here in their campaign talked about EMS funding and how to get it under control."
Council president Kim Wheeler thanked each Commissioner and Council member for offering their input into the decision. Saying he'd personally wrestled with the issues involved over the past couple of weeks, Wheeler added, "I can't feel like we need to break away from Parkview right now." He said he'd was in favor of signing on for the next five years, but saw merit in working toward a county-managed system in the future -- but taking time to do it carefully.
The Commissioners then voted in favor of continuing to have Parkview manage the EMS program for the county at a cost of $1.5 million ($300,000 annually for five years). Commissioners Tom Rethlake and Kim Wheeler voted in favor of the measure, while Don Amber voted against it.
County Council, upon consideration of the Commissioners' decision, then voted on funding of the EMS program via Parkview -- agreeing to pay $1.5 million in installments of $300,000 per year and agreeing to the partial funding of one new EMS vehicle. Council added the caveat that any agreement with Parkview would also address quality, legal liability for the county and transport issues.
County Council members voting in favor of funding the program managed by Parkview included Paula Reimers, Kim Wheeler, Glen Larue, Bill Overdeer and Tom Western. Voting against the measure was Jim Bayman and John Barrett.
Local shop handing out free comic books Saturday
Free Comic Book Day is May 7 -- a single day when participating comic book shops across North America and around the world give away comic books absolutely free to anyone who comes into their stores, with no purchase required and no strings attached.
Beck Enterprises in Columbia City, located at 130 West Van Buren Street, will hand out free comic books from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. this Saturday, May 7, 2011.
Beck Enterprises in Columbia City, located at 130 West Van Buren Street, will hand out free comic books from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. this Saturday, May 7, 2011.
Learn more about Whitley Forward at today's LWC First Friday Networking in South Whitley
From reports
Leadership Whitley County alumni and interested community members are invited to attend First Friday Networking today, Friday, May 6, in South Whitley.
The informal group will meet at noon at The Brownstone on State Street.
Lori Shipman will lead a discussion on the Whitley Forward initiative, an effort to encourage education in the community focusing on science, technology, engineering and math.
May 05, 2011
Gathered in Prayer
(Talk of the Town mobile photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
A small gathering of residents came together in prayer over the noon hour today, Thursday, May 5, 2011, in downtown Columbia City. Events have been ongoing in Whitley County since Saturday and will conclude with a prayer service tonight at the Community of Hope Church at 6 p.m., followed by prayer on the courthouse lawn and a concert by Trent Boston.
Benefit planned to aid South Whitley 2-year-old's fight against cancer
A benefit is planned for Laura Jean Hilty, a daughter of John and Rachel Hilty of South Whitley. Laura Jean is 2 years-old and is being treated for neuroblastoma cancer at Riley and Lutheran hospitals.
This benefit will be held at the home of Paul and Anna Delagrange at 7371 W 900 S, South Whitley on June 11, 2011.
Activities include an Amish bake sale beginning at 9:30 a.m., lunch served starting at 10:30 a.m., an auction starting at 11 a.m. and other activities. The meal includes: whole hog sausage, grilled chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, homemade noodles, homemade cinnamon rolls, bread, pies, homemade ice cream and some surprises, too.
There will be a spectacular and exceptional auction including Amish homemade quilts and comforters, bags of animal feed, fertilizers, 225 bales of straw, a homemade Amish dinner served in their home for 15-20 people, a selling (D.H.H.) stallion service (1 fee) for donation, furniture, and more.
New and good items may be donated. Anyone interesting in supporting the cause may contact Don King at 723-4373 or Jim Bayman at 723-4055 for any information or questions about the auction.
A giveaway for a 2-year-old pony will be a highlight at the benefit.
For additional information, contact John Graber of South Whitley at 723-4762 or Jonas Schwartz of Grabill at 260-627-0520.
Checks may be made to John Hilty, father of Laura Jean. It is a day planned for Laura Jean and her family, so put this date on your calendar.
This benefit will be held at the home of Paul and Anna Delagrange at 7371 W 900 S, South Whitley on June 11, 2011.
Activities include an Amish bake sale beginning at 9:30 a.m., lunch served starting at 10:30 a.m., an auction starting at 11 a.m. and other activities. The meal includes: whole hog sausage, grilled chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, homemade noodles, homemade cinnamon rolls, bread, pies, homemade ice cream and some surprises, too.
There will be a spectacular and exceptional auction including Amish homemade quilts and comforters, bags of animal feed, fertilizers, 225 bales of straw, a homemade Amish dinner served in their home for 15-20 people, a selling (D.H.H.) stallion service (1 fee) for donation, furniture, and more.
New and good items may be donated. Anyone interesting in supporting the cause may contact Don King at 723-4373 or Jim Bayman at 723-4055 for any information or questions about the auction.
A giveaway for a 2-year-old pony will be a highlight at the benefit.
For additional information, contact John Graber of South Whitley at 723-4762 or Jonas Schwartz of Grabill at 260-627-0520.
Checks may be made to John Hilty, father of Laura Jean. It is a day planned for Laura Jean and her family, so put this date on your calendar.
Primary election results
If you missed reading the results from the Columbia City Municipal primary election this week, here's the link to the final results. Click here.
Huntington University EXCEL hosting 'Coffee & College' event May 24 in Columbia City
By Ashley Smith
The EXCEL Adult Degree Programs at Huntington University will host “Coffee & College” at 6:30 p.m. on May 24, 2011, at the EXCEL site in Columbia City, 220 Frontage Road.
This free event is open to adults interested in pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree through EXCEL’s one-night-a-week format. Refreshments will be provided. Attendees will have an opportunity to ask EXCEL staff members questions about the program as well as to attend a portion of an EXCEL class. In addition, EXCEL will waive the $20 application fee for anyone who completes an application at the event.
For more information or to RSVP by May 23, call 800-600-4888 or visit www.cupofcollege.com.
EXCEL offers online and evening classes tailored to the schedule of working adults. Onsite classes are held one night per week, one subject at a time in Huntington, Columbia City and Wabash, Ind. Classes last five to eight weeks and lead to an associate degree in organizational management or Christian ministry. Bachelor’s degrees in accounting, business administration, human resource management, marketing, not-for-profit leadership or nursing (RN to BSN) are also available in this adult-friendly format.
Huntington University is a comprehensive Christian college of the liberal arts offering graduate and undergraduate programs in more than 70 academic concentrations. U.S. News & World Report ranks Huntington among the best colleges in the Midwest, and Forbes.com has listed the university as one of America’s Best Colleges. Additionally, Princeton Review has named the institution to its “Best in the Midwest” list. Founded in 1897 by the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, Huntington University is located on a contemporary, lakeside campus in northeast Indiana. The university is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU).
The EXCEL Adult Degree Programs at Huntington University will host “Coffee & College” at 6:30 p.m. on May 24, 2011, at the EXCEL site in Columbia City, 220 Frontage Road.
This free event is open to adults interested in pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree through EXCEL’s one-night-a-week format. Refreshments will be provided. Attendees will have an opportunity to ask EXCEL staff members questions about the program as well as to attend a portion of an EXCEL class. In addition, EXCEL will waive the $20 application fee for anyone who completes an application at the event.
For more information or to RSVP by May 23, call 800-600-4888 or visit www.cupofcollege.com.
EXCEL offers online and evening classes tailored to the schedule of working adults. Onsite classes are held one night per week, one subject at a time in Huntington, Columbia City and Wabash, Ind. Classes last five to eight weeks and lead to an associate degree in organizational management or Christian ministry. Bachelor’s degrees in accounting, business administration, human resource management, marketing, not-for-profit leadership or nursing (RN to BSN) are also available in this adult-friendly format.
Huntington University is a comprehensive Christian college of the liberal arts offering graduate and undergraduate programs in more than 70 academic concentrations. U.S. News & World Report ranks Huntington among the best colleges in the Midwest, and Forbes.com has listed the university as one of America’s Best Colleges. Additionally, Princeton Review has named the institution to its “Best in the Midwest” list. Founded in 1897 by the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, Huntington University is located on a contemporary, lakeside campus in northeast Indiana. The university is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU).
Community Voices...
Today on Community Voices, a candidate thanks the community for support in the recent election and warns citizens to be wary of "two Democrats" on the ballot in November... Click here to read Community Voices.
Fundraiser brought in $7500 for the family of deceased Army veteran
(Talk of the Town photos provided) Above, 20 teams competed in a cornhole tournament at a fundraiser held last Saturday for deceased Army veteran Wesley Smith. The event raised $7500 for Smith's final expenses. Below, a quilt donated by Elaine Rider was one of many items donated by local individuals and businesses that was auctioned off during the event.
Article provided
A hog roast, silent auction, corn hole tournament and Huckleberry Blue Concert was held last Saturday, April 30, 2011, at the Whitley County Shrine Grounds to celebrate the life of Wesley Smith. 
“The generosity of the community was overwhelming,” said Angela Hoffman, one of the event coordinators.
In addition to the 60 items from local businesses donated to the silent auction, over 300 members of the community attended the event. During the event Duane and Diana Smith, parents of the fallen soldier, were presented $500 check from the Churubusco American Legion Post 157. Committee members were pleased to present Smith's family with $7000 Sunday afternoon, bringing the total amount raised to $7500.
Committee members expressed their sincere gratitude to the donors, workers and many participants for helping make this event a successful tribute to a local soldier and Whitley County native.
Smith, the son of Duane and Diana Smith and husband of Caroline Cripe, was an Iraqi war veteran who served in the US Army. He was a 2004 graduate of Columbia City High School.
Committee members who helped with the fundraiser included Jake Van Voorst, Angela Hoffman, Jason Taulbee, Stephanie Zumbrun, Brad Zumbrun, Adam Geiger and Chris Huffman.
Volunteers helping with the event on Saturday included John & Karen Van Voorst, Meredith Hoffman, Zack Zumbrun, Stephanie Dustin, Josh Van Voorst, Abby Nelsh, Linda Arnold & family, Jeff Ormsby and Mike & Cindy Huffman.
Proposal brought forth to outline future EMS service in Whitley County
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
On Monday, Whitley County Commissioners heard a new plan for the county's EMS care.
The plan was proposed by EMS consultant Jim Freeman, according to County Commissioner Don Amber, who also helped in the process.
Amber, who had been involved in local emergency care for decades, had a vision of how he'd like to see local EMS service operate -- but, he said, "I couldn't quite understand the financial aspect."
For that, he approached Freeman and asked for his advice. Freeman has extensive knowledge of ambulance billing and the financial aspect of EMS management.
"He consulted Fulton County from out of a hospital-run program to a county-run program," Amber added. With Freeman's input, Amber believes that could happen here as well.
The result -- an EMS service that would be fully county-run and county owned. "We would not continue paying Parkview to manage our EMS service," Amber stated. "The county is now responsible to pay Parkview to a break-even point," he added, saying that every year questions about funding of the EMS program and a sense of distrust about the current arrangement between the hospital system and the county prevail in local government. "Every year, we go through this."
Amber believes a true, county-owned EMS service is the answer to cost and would alleviate the distrust. "It will enhance service and at a lower cost," he said. "If council doesn't like that, they know what alternative exists."
Parkview recently proposed a one to five year contract with the county for EMS care with several payment options. In a tiered structure, the first year would cost the county $320,000 and each year would progressively increase in cost to a five year level of $400,000 with a total outlay of $1.8 million. Another option would include paying Parkview $360,000 a year for five years.
"For that, they would build a new EMS garage on the new campus and restructure service to provide one 24-48 hour and one 12-hour crew in the ER," Amber said.
Instead of all that, and for a lesser cost, Amber believes Whitley County EMS could remain at their current location on Oak Street.
"When we signed with Parkview, we got a 50 year lease on the building," Amber said. "We have 34 years left on that lease." When Parkview Whitley Hospital moves to their new location and tears down the existing hospital, Amber added, it would be then necessary to have all utilities moved to the EMS building as they are currently run through the hospital. "There is much yet to determine with that," he said.
In many ways, Amber is stuck in the middle of the county EMS debates and as such, won't likely be able to vote on the matter.
"I voted for the Parkview proposal," he said of the agreement signed with Parkview years ago, and as such is a Parkview employee. "But, I'm also a county employee and would vote myself out of a job," he said of the decision he, as a commissioner, might make in choosing how to handle EMS service in the future.
"(Fellow commissioners) George (Schrumpf) and Tom (Rethlake) are likely to make the vote on this pending legal advice," Amber said. "George is a great asset. He's been studying this hard."
"We've got some big issues we've got to deal with," Amber concluded.
Since the inception of EMS in Whitley County in 1976, it has been funded by Whitley County and has been managed by the local hospital.
Click the link below to see the full scale EMS proposal presented to Commissioners on Monday.
• Make EMS a department of the county. EMS would be responsible only to the county officials and not to both county and hospital officials
• Provide Paramedic service to Churubusco and South Whitley quicker than the current program by placing Paramedics in those communities 24 hours per day.
• End the current system of sending two ambulances to one location when only one is required.
• Maintain the current number and levels of employees and assure them of continued employment in the field they chose.
• Decrease the subsidy needed to maintain EMS.
• Decrease or end the use of CEDIT funds to maintain EMS and instead use such funds for the purpose(s) in which they were intended.
• Help keep Paramedics in the county to serve its citizens instead of being out of the county on interfacility transfers.
• Save money on fuel and repair costs by having fewer ambulances on the road.
On Monday, Whitley County Commissioners heard a new plan for the county's EMS care.
The plan was proposed by EMS consultant Jim Freeman, according to County Commissioner Don Amber, who also helped in the process.
Amber, who had been involved in local emergency care for decades, had a vision of how he'd like to see local EMS service operate -- but, he said, "I couldn't quite understand the financial aspect."
For that, he approached Freeman and asked for his advice. Freeman has extensive knowledge of ambulance billing and the financial aspect of EMS management.
"He consulted Fulton County from out of a hospital-run program to a county-run program," Amber added. With Freeman's input, Amber believes that could happen here as well.
The result -- an EMS service that would be fully county-run and county owned. "We would not continue paying Parkview to manage our EMS service," Amber stated. "The county is now responsible to pay Parkview to a break-even point," he added, saying that every year questions about funding of the EMS program and a sense of distrust about the current arrangement between the hospital system and the county prevail in local government. "Every year, we go through this."
Amber believes a true, county-owned EMS service is the answer to cost and would alleviate the distrust. "It will enhance service and at a lower cost," he said. "If council doesn't like that, they know what alternative exists."
Parkview recently proposed a one to five year contract with the county for EMS care with several payment options. In a tiered structure, the first year would cost the county $320,000 and each year would progressively increase in cost to a five year level of $400,000 with a total outlay of $1.8 million. Another option would include paying Parkview $360,000 a year for five years.
"For that, they would build a new EMS garage on the new campus and restructure service to provide one 24-48 hour and one 12-hour crew in the ER," Amber said.
Instead of all that, and for a lesser cost, Amber believes Whitley County EMS could remain at their current location on Oak Street.
"When we signed with Parkview, we got a 50 year lease on the building," Amber said. "We have 34 years left on that lease." When Parkview Whitley Hospital moves to their new location and tears down the existing hospital, Amber added, it would be then necessary to have all utilities moved to the EMS building as they are currently run through the hospital. "There is much yet to determine with that," he said.
In many ways, Amber is stuck in the middle of the county EMS debates and as such, won't likely be able to vote on the matter.
"I voted for the Parkview proposal," he said of the agreement signed with Parkview years ago, and as such is a Parkview employee. "But, I'm also a county employee and would vote myself out of a job," he said of the decision he, as a commissioner, might make in choosing how to handle EMS service in the future.
"(Fellow commissioners) George (Schrumpf) and Tom (Rethlake) are likely to make the vote on this pending legal advice," Amber said. "George is a great asset. He's been studying this hard."
"We've got some big issues we've got to deal with," Amber concluded.
Since the inception of EMS in Whitley County in 1976, it has been funded by Whitley County and has been managed by the local hospital.
Click the link below to see the full scale EMS proposal presented to Commissioners on Monday.
EMS Enhancement Proposal
Will:• Make EMS a department of the county. EMS would be responsible only to the county officials and not to both county and hospital officials
• Provide Paramedic service to Churubusco and South Whitley quicker than the current program by placing Paramedics in those communities 24 hours per day.
• End the current system of sending two ambulances to one location when only one is required.
• Maintain the current number and levels of employees and assure them of continued employment in the field they chose.
• Decrease the subsidy needed to maintain EMS.
• Decrease or end the use of CEDIT funds to maintain EMS and instead use such funds for the purpose(s) in which they were intended.
• Help keep Paramedics in the county to serve its citizens instead of being out of the county on interfacility transfers.
• Save money on fuel and repair costs by having fewer ambulances on the road.
May 04, 2011
IPFW honors EDC president Alan Tio
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Alan Tio, below at left, was honored by the IPFW Department of Public Policy with the 2011 Distinguished Alumni Award recently.
Article provided.
Whitley County EDC President, Alan Tio was recently honored by the Indiana-Purdue University at Fort Wayne (IPFW) Department of Public Policy with the 2011 Distinguished Alumni Award on April 27, 2011, at the annual Alumni & Graduation luncheon.
Tio holds a graduate degree in public management (MPA) from Indiana University's School of Public and Environmental Affairs, now known as the Department of Public Policy.
Tio’s nomination for the award was submitted by John Stafford, director of the Community Research Institute at IPFW and selected by the full time faculty members at IPFW. Tio is the president of the Whitley County Economic Development Corporation
"It is always a pleasure to witness the professional growth of a former student after they complete their academic work," stated Stafford. “Alan's contributions to economic development in northeast Indiana and particularly Whitley County have been substantial, especially given the relatively short span of his professional career."
"The IPFW Department of Public Policy is pleased to recognize Alan's professional achievements as the program's 2011 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. He most deservedly follows in the line of past recipients as being among the numerous graduates of the program who are making a real difference in the quality of the northeast Indiana community," Stafford concluded.
Article provided.
Whitley County EDC President, Alan Tio was recently honored by the Indiana-Purdue University at Fort Wayne (IPFW) Department of Public Policy with the 2011 Distinguished Alumni Award on April 27, 2011, at the annual Alumni & Graduation luncheon.
Tio holds a graduate degree in public management (MPA) from Indiana University's School of Public and Environmental Affairs, now known as the Department of Public Policy.
Tio’s nomination for the award was submitted by John Stafford, director of the Community Research Institute at IPFW and selected by the full time faculty members at IPFW. Tio is the president of the Whitley County Economic Development Corporation
"It is always a pleasure to witness the professional growth of a former student after they complete their academic work," stated Stafford. “Alan's contributions to economic development in northeast Indiana and particularly Whitley County have been substantial, especially given the relatively short span of his professional career."
"The IPFW Department of Public Policy is pleased to recognize Alan's professional achievements as the program's 2011 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. He most deservedly follows in the line of past recipients as being among the numerous graduates of the program who are making a real difference in the quality of the northeast Indiana community," Stafford concluded.
Take the time for your mammogram! Mobile mammography unit coming to Churubusco May 31
Francine’s Friends Mobile Mammography unit will be in Churubusco for women interested in scheduling a mammogram. On Tuesday, May 31, the mobile unit will be at Curves, located at 8475 E. Highway 33.
Screening mammography is for women who:
- Are age 40 and older and have not had a mammogram screening in the past 12 months
- Have no prior or current history of breast cancer or problems with their breasts
- Are insured or uninsured
The Breast Diagnostic Center (BDC) performs the screening. For women who have insurance, the insurance company will be billed. If patients do not have insurance but have the ability to pay, the BDC offers a reduced rate if paid the day of the screening. For women without insurance, a high deductible or who do not have the resources to pay, funding is available.
To schedule a mammogram with Francine’s Friends Mobile Mammography unit, call 1-800-727-8439, ext. 26540, or (260) 483-1847. For more information on Francine’s Friends, visit its website at www.FrancinesFriends.org.
Francine’s Friends Mobile mammography is a partnership between Francine’s Friends, Parkview Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Breast Diagnostic Center.
Screening mammography is for women who:
- Are age 40 and older and have not had a mammogram screening in the past 12 months
- Have no prior or current history of breast cancer or problems with their breasts
- Are insured or uninsured
The Breast Diagnostic Center (BDC) performs the screening. For women who have insurance, the insurance company will be billed. If patients do not have insurance but have the ability to pay, the BDC offers a reduced rate if paid the day of the screening. For women without insurance, a high deductible or who do not have the resources to pay, funding is available.
To schedule a mammogram with Francine’s Friends Mobile Mammography unit, call 1-800-727-8439, ext. 26540, or (260) 483-1847. For more information on Francine’s Friends, visit its website at www.FrancinesFriends.org.
Francine’s Friends Mobile mammography is a partnership between Francine’s Friends, Parkview Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Breast Diagnostic Center.
May 03, 2011
Cathy Heritier and Ryan Daniel will be challengers for 2011 Columbia City mayoral race
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, the first precinct results arrive at the Whitley Count Clerk's office. Below, 40 minutes after the polls closed clerk's office staff member Jessica Hockemeyer loads the final election results online.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Just 40 minutes after the polls closed in Columbia City, candidate Ryan Daniel was declared the winner of the Republican primary mayoral election.
Daniel won with 575 votes -- taking 48.73% of the popular vote. Earlier in the evening, it was speculated that Daniel would win when the absentee ballots were tablulated, showing Daniel as the early winner. 
According to election staff, frequently the absentee vote winner is an early indicator of the final tally winner.
Gary "Big G" Parrett finished with 32.03% of the vote, garnering 378 votes. Don Sexton finished with 19.24% of the vote, with 227 votes.
In all, 1112 people turned out at poll locations in Columbia City today and 185 voted absentee in prior weeks. The total voter turnout for this election was 1297 voters out of 5409 registered voters in the city -- resulting in a 23.98% voter turnout.
According to County Clerk Debbie Beers, the 23.98% voter turnout is almost double what the 2007 primary turnout which was just 10%.
Several other candidates for city council were also on the ballot today, but none of them were running contested races.
Across the street from the Whitley County Courthouse, at Northside Bar & Grill, the Whitley County Republican Party hosted a post-election party. Candidate Don Sexton was the only mayoral candidate in attendance, surrounded by a dozen or so party faithful. Parrett hosted a function for his supporters at his Columbia City restaurant and Daniel is said to have hosted a private function for his supporters at an undisclosed location.
Cathy Heritier and Ryan Daniel will now be mayoral challengers for the November General Election in Columbia City.
Republicans gather after the election
County Election Board looks into allegations of electioneering violations in Columbia City today
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
After fielding a dozen calls from concerned voters, County Clerk Debbie Beers and the Whitley County Election Board investigated allegations of electioneering violations today at poll sites around Columbia City.
According to Beers, questions stemmed from political candidates on the ballot appearing in person, and in some cases with signs, inside buildings where poll sites were located.
"It was a big concern with voters," Beers said Tuesday afternoon. She said she'd personally received calls from at least ten voters, but several of those calls were said to represent the concerns of many more local residents. She said callers felt their rights to access their polling sites without interruption was being compromised.
By law, candidates for election are not allowed to be within 50 feet of polling sites, but Beers said the 50 feet rule applies to the front door of the room where the polls are located. For some buildings, either means several feet outdoors or, possibly, that candidates need to remain out of a certain area of a building. All in all, it created a little confusion for voters and brought about an investigation of all nine precinct sites at four city polling locations. Traditionally, candidates have tended to stay further than the 50 feet away from polling sites.
"The county election board checked it out," Beers said, adding that they determined that candidates were staying outside of the 50 foot chutes and were within their rights to reach voters -- even though some voters felt they had gotten into their space.
"They were staying out of where they shouldn't be and they have that right (to be near polling locations)," she said. "They're not doing anything they shouldn't be doing, but I do want people to know this is on the up and up."
Beers said this is the first time issues of electioneering have been brought to the attention of the Whitley County Election Board.
Other than addressing the electioneering concerns, Beers said the primary election has run very well this year.
"This is one of the smoothest elections we've ever had," Beers said.
Beers characterized the primary absentee voting this year as "light" with just 185 voters casting their ballots early.
She said she's optimistic that overall voter turnout will exceed the 2007 primary election where just 10% of eligible voters turned out to cast votes in the May primary.
Voting ends at 6 p.m. this evening. All votes will be tallied and results will be available online on Talk of the Town a short while afterward.
After fielding a dozen calls from concerned voters, County Clerk Debbie Beers and the Whitley County Election Board investigated allegations of electioneering violations today at poll sites around Columbia City.
According to Beers, questions stemmed from political candidates on the ballot appearing in person, and in some cases with signs, inside buildings where poll sites were located.
"It was a big concern with voters," Beers said Tuesday afternoon. She said she'd personally received calls from at least ten voters, but several of those calls were said to represent the concerns of many more local residents. She said callers felt their rights to access their polling sites without interruption was being compromised.
By law, candidates for election are not allowed to be within 50 feet of polling sites, but Beers said the 50 feet rule applies to the front door of the room where the polls are located. For some buildings, either means several feet outdoors or, possibly, that candidates need to remain out of a certain area of a building. All in all, it created a little confusion for voters and brought about an investigation of all nine precinct sites at four city polling locations. Traditionally, candidates have tended to stay further than the 50 feet away from polling sites.
"The county election board checked it out," Beers said, adding that they determined that candidates were staying outside of the 50 foot chutes and were within their rights to reach voters -- even though some voters felt they had gotten into their space.
"They were staying out of where they shouldn't be and they have that right (to be near polling locations)," she said. "They're not doing anything they shouldn't be doing, but I do want people to know this is on the up and up."
Beers said this is the first time issues of electioneering have been brought to the attention of the Whitley County Election Board.
Other than addressing the electioneering concerns, Beers said the primary election has run very well this year.
"This is one of the smoothest elections we've ever had," Beers said.
Beers characterized the primary absentee voting this year as "light" with just 185 voters casting their ballots early.
She said she's optimistic that overall voter turnout will exceed the 2007 primary election where just 10% of eligible voters turned out to cast votes in the May primary.
Voting ends at 6 p.m. this evening. All votes will be tallied and results will be available online on Talk of the Town a short while afterward.
WCCS, USDA to provide free lunches for children this summer at Mary Raber, Miami Village
From reports
Once again this summer, Whitley County Consolidated Schools will participate in the USDA Summer Food Service Program.
Free lunch meals will be made available to all children under the age of 18 and to persons over 18 years who are enrolled in a state-approved educational program for the mentally or physically disabled. Free meals will be provided to all children without charge and are the same for all children regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.
Free meals (for children only) will be provided at Mary Raber Elementary School, 700 E. Jackson Street, in Columbia City. Lunch meals will be available from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. starting June 13, 2011, and will continue being offered each weekday through August 5. Children should enter the serving area through Entrance Door #7 (the alley side of the building).
Additionally, this year a second site in Miami Village Trailer Park, 4614 E. Old Trail Road, rural Columbia City, will also be available. Lunch meals for children ages 18 and under will be available in the park area every weekday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. from June 13, 2011, through August 5. No paperwork is required to participate at either site.
Meals must be eaten on site and cannot be shared with another person. Parents/caregivers are encouraged to bring their lunch if they want to eat with their children. No adult meals are available on site.
All sites will be closed on Monday, July 4, 2011, in observance of Independence Day.
For further information, please contact Carol Heinold, WCCS Food Service Director at 260-244-5772 ext. 1280.
Chamber's administrative professionals luncheon was a joyful break for local office heroes
Junior Miss becomes Distinguised Young Women pageant, recruitment begins May 17
Article provided
Formerly known as Junior Miss, the scholarship program for young women has nationally and locally changed its name to Distinguished Young Women.
Recruitment sessions for prospective contestants of the 2012 Distinguished Young Women (DYW) have been scheduled for the third week of May. Prospective contestants need only to attend one of the three scheduled sessions. Every contestant must attend a recruitment/orientation conducted by Pamela Thompson, co-coordinator of the Whitley County franchise of DYW and Cassandra Petrie, Whitley County's Junior Miss, 2011.
Petrie is the last Junior Miss of Whitley County and the winner of the 2012 program will be Whitley County's first Distinguished Young Woman. The name of the oldest and largest scholarship program for high school senior girls was changed at the national program last year in Mobile, Alabama. Only the name of the program was changed as the structure and methods of evaluation remain as they were in the Junior Miss program.
The recruitment meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, May 17, 2011, at the Churubusco Public Library, 116 Mulberry St., Churubusco at 3:45 p.m.; Wednesday, May 18, in the board room of the Whitley County Community Foundation, 400 N. Whitley St. (directly south of Columbia City High School) at 3:45 p.m. and Thursday, May 19, at the South Whitley Cleveland Township Public Library, 201 E. Front St., South Whitley. Each session will last approximately one hour. Additional recruitment sessions can be scheduled by calling 244-7467.
The 47th production of this program is set for Saturday, September 10, at 7 p.m. in the Newell Rice Auditorium of Columbia City High School. Admission is $10 per person.
Program participation is open to all girls who are high school seniors and will graduate in 2012. Prospective contestants can either be a senior in one of the county's three high schools, a resident of Whitley County but attending a school outside of Whitley County, a resident in another county but attending high school in one of Whitley County's school districts or a high school senior that is being home schooled within Whitley County.
The is no entry fee for the contestants and contestants are not allowed to solicit sponsors or scholarship donors. The board of directors for Whitley County's Distinguished Young Women program solicits scholarship donations on behalf of the contestants.
At the recruitment session prospective contestants will be given general program information in addition to the program rules. Other information will be on the program categories and Be Your Best Self which is the national, state and local outreach program conducted by DYW to encourage positive choices and growth in younger people.
Why wait 'til tomorrow? Election results will be here on Talk of the Town tonight!
It's election day for those living within the Columbia City limits today, with polls open tonight until 6 p.m. Check in after 6 p.m. this evening and Talk of the Town will have up-to-the minute election results posted here!
Financial crisis facing Whitley County Humane Society
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The Whitley County Humane Society, below, announced that is facing a dire financial crisis and is in need of donations to remain open. Bright spots include the hiring of a new director and the award of a grant from the Whitley County Community Foundation.
Article provided
Public support is urgently needed to offset the on-going operating expenses of the Whitley County Humane Society.
The Whitley County Community Foundation recently issued a grant to the Humane Society in the hopes of helping the non-profit animal shelter improve financial stability and offset the day to day expenses of doing business. The Humane Society is grateful for the Foundation’s ongoing financial and organizational support to help stabilize the ailing shelter over the past three years. In December 2008, the Foundation provided funding, financial management, and technical assistance to the organization. In addition to hiring a full time director, and re-organizing the volunteer board and by-laws, the Humane Society Board and community leaders took significant steps to restructure services and operations to minimize expenses. These measures included reducing paid staff, cutting public hours to three days a week and designing an annual fund-raising campaign.
“The economy has been particularly hard on our area’s non-profit organizations,” explained September McConnell, executive director of the Whitley County Community Foundation. “Last year’s campaign letter for support to the Humane Shelter brought in 50% fewer dollars than the year before. People who care about the organization and the animals have been pinched financially and don’t have the discretionary income to give. For an organization that must rely on charitable contributions, that kind of response can be devastating.”
In addition to donations, through its service of providing animal control, the Shelter has relied on partnerships with local government. Columbia City, Churubusco, Larwill and South Whitley have remained collaborative funders in their support of the shelter; however the County opted to withdraw financial support in 2008. “While the organization has always been challenged when it comes to fund-raising, we had a degree of frugal sustainability, but after the County withdrew its support, the Humane Shelter has continually struggled to find a measure of stability, often operating on a month to month basis.”
“Almost half of the monthly expenses of running the shelter are for payroll and the rest is overhead,” explained Mark Espich, board president.
"We’ve recently cut paid staff as much as possible and utilize a lot of dedicated volunteers and community corrections workers. The Shelter gets a good quality, vet- recommended, food for free from Science Diet, but has to pay to cover freight. The real expense comes in the costs we can’t control much such as utilities and insurance,” he added.
“The good news is that people care,” said Espich. “We have hired a new director, Lindsey Pease, who in addition to her many qualifications, is also a vet tech. She is very knowledgeable in the field of animal health, in addition to showing great leadership qualities. Anyone who would agree to step in when things are toughest shows true dedication,” he added. Espich also nods to fellow Board members who have chosen to roll up their sleeves and work toward a solution.
The Whitley County Humane Shelter plays a crucial role in taking in an average of 24 dogs and 21 cats on a monthly basis. The shelter cares for these animals, often nursing them back to health. Last year the shelter found 384 new homes and returned 74 animals back to their owners. Without this service in our community we can expect more problems with ill, stray animals roaming the county and creating a nuisance, and fewer owners being reunited with their beloved pets.
Anyone interested in supporting the Humane Society has a wonderful opportunity to do so at the organization’s annual auction on Friday, May 6, 2011, at the Eagle’s Nest Event Center. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. A silent auction and live auction start at 7 p.m. Great food and camaraderie, in addition to wonderful auction items, will make for a terrific evening. In the past, the event has brought in as much as two month’s worth of operating support. Anyone who would like to provide immediate assistance can claim their contribution as a tax deduction.
Checks can be mailed to: The Whitley County Humane Society, 951 South Line Street, Columbia City, IN 46725.
May 02, 2011
Duke Energy makes generous contribution toward economic development efforts in South Whitley
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Below, a representative of Duke Energy, Kevin Neal, presents Whitley County EDC president Alan Tio with a $5000 donation to aid in the preparation of an industrial site in South Whitley to entice business interest in that area.
Article provided
Last Tuesday evening, Duke Energy is awarded $5,000 to the Whitley County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to help prepare an industrial site in South Whitley to attract new businesses to the area.
The work, which includes an environmental site assessment, land surveys, wetland delineation, site
infrastructure and associated engineering, is expected to be finished by summer 2011. The EDC then will apply to the Indiana Economic Development Corporation for the “shovel-ready” designation. That designation makes it easier for prospective businesses, particularly manufacturers, to build on the property.
“Duke Energy understands the importance of helping the communities we serve improve opportunities for economic growth,” said Kevin Neal, director of wholesale relations for Duke Energy Indiana. “South Whitley and its leaders have already proven to be a welcoming community for a number of industries, and we are pleased to help them build on their success.”
“We appreciate Duke Energy’s vision for economic development,” said Alan Tio, president of the Whitley County EDC. “Like so many other rural Indiana communities that do not benefit from four-lane highway access, a project like this one is critical to South Whitley’s ability to compete for economic development projects.”
South Whitley Electric Light and Power supplies electric service to the town and surrounding area. The utility purchases its power from Duke Energy Indiana through a long-term wholesale power purchase agreement.
The grant is made possible through Duke Energy’s Community Growth Partnership Grant Program and is aimed at generating new jobs and capital investment in Indiana. Since 2008, a total of 27 grant recipients – all local or regional economic development organizations – have received more than $328,000 toward economic development projects.
Duke Energy requires grant recipients to demonstrate that they have leveraged other resources or partners in addition to Duke Energy for their projects. The Community Growth Partnership Grant Program is part of Duke Energy’s economic development strategy to assist communities in becoming more competitive.
Article provided
Last Tuesday evening, Duke Energy is awarded $5,000 to the Whitley County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to help prepare an industrial site in South Whitley to attract new businesses to the area.
The work, which includes an environmental site assessment, land surveys, wetland delineation, site
infrastructure and associated engineering, is expected to be finished by summer 2011. The EDC then will apply to the Indiana Economic Development Corporation for the “shovel-ready” designation. That designation makes it easier for prospective businesses, particularly manufacturers, to build on the property.“Duke Energy understands the importance of helping the communities we serve improve opportunities for economic growth,” said Kevin Neal, director of wholesale relations for Duke Energy Indiana. “South Whitley and its leaders have already proven to be a welcoming community for a number of industries, and we are pleased to help them build on their success.”
“We appreciate Duke Energy’s vision for economic development,” said Alan Tio, president of the Whitley County EDC. “Like so many other rural Indiana communities that do not benefit from four-lane highway access, a project like this one is critical to South Whitley’s ability to compete for economic development projects.”
South Whitley Electric Light and Power supplies electric service to the town and surrounding area. The utility purchases its power from Duke Energy Indiana through a long-term wholesale power purchase agreement.
The grant is made possible through Duke Energy’s Community Growth Partnership Grant Program and is aimed at generating new jobs and capital investment in Indiana. Since 2008, a total of 27 grant recipients – all local or regional economic development organizations – have received more than $328,000 toward economic development projects.
Duke Energy requires grant recipients to demonstrate that they have leveraged other resources or partners in addition to Duke Energy for their projects. The Community Growth Partnership Grant Program is part of Duke Energy’s economic development strategy to assist communities in becoming more competitive.