Talk of the Town - Whitley County

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(Talk of the Town photo by James Romano)
A ribbon cutting ceremony was presented by the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce Saturday morning in honor of the first Indiana Highland Games to be held in Whitley County. The Scottish Cultural Society's 25th annual event brought a large crowd to the Whitley County 4-H Fairgrounds for a day of athletics and cultural experiences. Participating in the ribbon cutting are, above from left, Eric Horvath of City Chevrolet, Shawn Ellis of Whitley County BABE, Ashlyn Goff, Mike Craig, Sara Lochner-Goff of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce, Cathy Heritier, vice president of Whitley County 4-H Inc., Jennifer Zartman Romano, co-chair of the Indiana Highland Games and vice chair of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce, June Keiser of J&J Insurance and secretary of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce, Mike Wilcoxin of LT Foundations Real Estate, Tina House of LT Foundations Real Estate and Jacie Worrick, 2011 president of the Old Settlers Day Association. Saturday's event was made possible with a grant from the Whitley County Community Foundation as well as encouragement from the Old Settlers Day Association, Whitley County Chamber of Commerce, Whitley County Business & Networking and Whitley County 4-H Inc.

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(Talk of the Town photo by James Romano)
A ribbon cutting ceremony was presented by the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce Saturday morning in honor of the first Indiana Highland Games to be held in Whitley County. The Scottish Cultural Society's 25th annual event brought a large crowd to the Whitley County 4-H Fairgrounds for a day of athletics and cultural experiences. Participating in the ribbon cutting are, above from left, Eric Horvath of City Chevrolet, Shawn Ellis of Whitley County BABE, Ashlyn Goff, Mike Craig, Sara Lochner-Goff of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce, Cathy Heritier, vice president of Whitley County 4-H Inc., Jennifer Zartman Romano, co-chair of the Indiana Highland Games and vice chair of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce, June Keiser of J&J Insurance and secretary of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce, Mike Wilcoxin of LT Foundations Real Estate, Tina House of LT Foundations Real Estate and Jacie Worrick, 2011 president of the Old Settlers Day Association. Saturday's event was made possible with a grant from the Whitley County Community Foundation as well as encouragement from the Old Settlers Day Association, Whitley County Chamber of Commerce, Whitley County Business & Networking and Whitley County 4-H Inc.

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From reports

The Whitley County 4-H Dairy Steer and Feeder Calf Show is looking for anyone or business that would be interested in sponsoring an award. The awards range from $75 to $15 and are as follows:
$75 Grand Champion Chair    Dairy Steer or Feeder Calf
$55 Reserve Grand Champion Chair   Dairy Steer or Feeder Calf
$20 Division & Reserve Division Winners  Dairy Steer or Feeder Calf
$15 First Place Banners  Dairy Steer or Feeder Calf
$20 Champion Rate of Gain  Dairy Steer or Feeder Calf
$15 Res Champion Rate of Gain   Dairy Steer or Feeder Calf
$30 Showmanship Award for Rookie, Beginner, Junior, & Senior
$75 Showman of Showmen Jacket
Thank you for your generosity and continues support of our Whitley County 4H kids, their hard work and the Whitley County 4H Program.
If you'd consider making a donation, send checks payable to: Whitley County Dairy Steer Club, c/o Margaret Gilbert, 8980 West SR 14, South Whitley, IN 46787.

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From reports

A meeting of the Whitko Community School Corporation board of trustees will be held July 5, 2011, at the Whitko Administration Office in Pierceton. The public portion of the meeting begins at 7:30 p.m.
During the meeting, school board members will sign a conflict of interest affidavit, elect board officers, set regular meeting dates and times for the 2011-2012 school year, establish board salary and benefits, approve media for news releases, appoint a treasurer and deputy treasurer, purchasing agent, board attorney, board liaison to the Indiana School Boards Association, authorize the board president to appoint members to committees and organizations, appoint a HIPAA privacy officer and appoint a civil rights compliance officer for the school corporation.
This meeting will constitute the corporation's annual reorganizational meeting.

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All 1960 graduates of Columbia City Joint High School as well as local residents are invited to attend an inspirational program presented by Bill Schwarz.
Schwarz's program, coordinated by the Whitley County Historical Society, will be presented at Grace Lutheran Church on Sunday, July 10, 2011, at 2:30 p.m.
Many local residents are aware of Schwarz's basketball skills, but many do not know the real story of his life.  Born in Rode, Transylvania, Romania, in the midst of World War II, Schwarz and his family were forced from their home in the middle of a night in September 1943 and his father was taken to a Siberian work camp. How the family endured those years will stir your heart. Faith, love, determination, hard work and thriftiness are vital elements in his presentation. The family eventually settled in Columbia City.
There is no admission fee.

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By Ashley Smith

Huntington University has again been ranked as one of the top institutions in the nation for online programming.
Offered through the university's EXCEL Adult Degree Programs, the online bachelor’s degree in business administration was ranked ninth in the Top 10 Online Bachelor of Business Administration Degree Programs of 2011. The rankings were compiled by The Best Colleges, a publication that reviews publicly available data and then produces independent ranking assessments of colleges in various disciplines. The rankings reviewed reputation, accreditation, student satisfaction and cost.
“Our ranking as a Top 10 online business administration degree program reaffirms Huntington University's emphasis on quality and EXCEL's core values of student learning, integrity and student support,” said Dr. Rick Upchurch, director of EXCEL. “We are so pleased to be recognized among nationally-known institutions such as the University of Massachusetts, Penn State University and Drexel University.”
The rankings are available online at www.thebestcolleges.org/top-online-bachelor-business-admin.
In March, Huntington University was ranked sixth in the nation for Online Christian Colleges & Universities for 2011 by The Best Colleges. Huntington offers online degree programs through its EXCEL Adult Degree Programs and the graduate school.
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 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).

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(Talk of the Town file photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, the Loon Lake fireworks extravaganza is mirrored on the lake's surface in 2010. Below, the annual Regatta is a beautiful sight.

Article provided

Loon Lake residents are gearing up for the biggest weekend of summer -- next weekend's celebration of Independence Day!  All Loon Lake Property Owners Association official activities will take place this Saturday, July 2.
Start your day with the seventh annual Loon Lake 5.5 K Run/Walk.  If you have not registered, it is not too late.  You can register the day of the event beginning at 7 a.m.  The race begins at 8 a.m. at the campground and runs clockwise around the lake.  Cheer on the record numbers of participants as they make their way around the lake. 
The float-in Pancake Breakfast will take place again this year off Brower's point where boats pull up to the pier for the "drive-up" style takeout pancakes.  Adult meals are $5 each and children may eat for $3 each.  Or, you can drive over to Red Bud Lane and walk in for a carry-out meal or sit and enjoy them hot. Breakfast will be served from 8 to 11 a.m.
At 11 a.m., the Loon Lake Sailing and Yacht Club will hold their annual Regatta. The race will take place in the middle of the lake around buoys placed for the course.  Come watch or dig out your binoculars for a close-up view.  If you are still on the lake, please be sure to yield to all sailboats who have the right-of-way at all times.
The annual Independence Day Boat Parade begins once the action slows down on the lake at 4 p.m.  Decorate your boat and participate or watch from the shoreline. The parade takes off from the bay by the campgrounds shortly after 4 p.m. and will cruise counter clockwise around the lake.  A new feature this year will be the 1st annual Grand Marshall leading the parade.  LLPOA pays tribute to Don Davis for all his years of service and dedication to the lake.  Call in your votes for your favorite float once they've passed your place by calling 799-4980.  Awards will be given to the 3 top winning boats will take place in Sycamore Bay once the votes are all tallied. Thanks to The Ad Paper, several prizes will be awarded to the top three winning entries in this year's parade.
As night falls and the stars come out, enjoy the Loon Lake Fireworks Spectacular which will be launched from the old campground.  Sit back and enjoy a grand ending to a wonderful day of fun! 

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

After you've finished your barbecuing and lounging by the pool, pack up the kids and head to Morsches Park this Saturday, July 2, for the Columbia City Parks Department's annual Independence Day festivities.
Children and adults may enjoy the Splashpad, which will be on all afternoon and into the evening. Additionally, children will enjoy a giant water slide and fun maze.
Adults can sit back in their lawn chairs while listening to Spike & The Bulldogs, who will begin performing at 8:30 p.m. in Morsches Park.
Beginning at 6 p.m., several vendors, including the Whitley County Shrine, will have food available for purchase.
Fireworks will be launched at approximately 10 p.m.
There is no cost to attend the annual celebration.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided)
The 2011 Columbia City Lady Eagle Basketball Camp recently drew to a close for girls in grades 5, 6 and 7.
Participants included, from left in row one, Tabitha Seaton, Alaina Rongos, Grace Cotter, Brooke Ebersole, Marissa Smith, Gracie Mills, Rebekah Hollowell, Ryleigh Lemmon and Andrea Teegardin. Row two, from left, includes Dorian Reimer, Hellen Kyler, Brittney Kinney, Tessah Reimer, Skylar Zickafoose, Haley Reed, Jaylen Hull, Emilee Smith, Erin Wight and Brittney Renninger. Row three, from left, includes Sidney Bunyan, Darian Farber, Madison Muchow, Madison Hansen, Elise Cormany, Holly Martinez, Chelsea Pettigrew, Isabella Krieg, Morgan Bales, Miranada McConnell, Mason VanHouten and  Ashlie Oliver. Row four, from left, includes Coach Amy Shearer, Coach Mike Roy, Lacey Jahn, Morgan Pettigrew, Lindsey Hinen, Emily Whiteleather, Miriah Hicks, Hannah Schnorr, Megan Deutsch, Sarah Opliger, Samara Qureshi, Alaina Beckner and Coach Jenny Zorger.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Dr. John Meier)
On Tuesday, the gavel was passed ending Erica Miller's year-long presidency of the Columbia City Rotary Club. Above, Miller passes the gavel to incoming president Jim Banks. Banks will now serve a one year term as club president.

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It will be a spicy day for those attending Parkview Whitley Foundation’s Hot Tamale Golf Classic at Eagle Glen Golf Course on July 21, 2011.
The annual event is co-hosted this year by Hagerman Construction and Vintage Archonics. Proceeds from this year’s golf classic will benefit the Medication Assistance Program (MAP) at Parkview Whitley Hospital. The MAP program serves as a link between patients, physicians and pharmacies for the purpose of providing medications at little or no cost for qualified applicants of Whitley County and patients of Whitley County physicians.
Player registration and lunch begins at 11 a.m., with a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. Following golf, a fiesta-themed dinner will be served just after 5 p.m. at the Eagle’s Nest Event Center, with a silent auction and golf awards. Prizes will be given to the winning men’s and women’s/co-ed foursomes, as well as the longest drive winners (men’s and women’s), closest to the pin and the putting contest. 
The registration fee is $360 for a foursome or $90 for an individual. Deadline for registration is July 8. Visit foundations.parkview.com/Whitleygolf to register. 
For more information about the Hot Tamale Golf Classic or sponsorship opportunities, please contact whitleyfoundation@parkview.com, or Tai Felger at (260) 373-7972. 

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From BuscoVoice.com

It seemed it was only a matter of time before Indiana joined the now more than 30 states that have banned texting while driving; that time will come this Friday, July 1, 2011.
The new ban makes it illegal for a person to be typing or reading text messages while they are driving, making it a primary violation (meaning you can be pulled over if a police officer suspects you of texting and driving). Not only can you be pulled over, you can be issued a citation and face fines up to $500.
But this new ban leaves many with questions, such as “Can I still be talking on my cell phone?” So here are some of the particulars on this new law:
◦ The ban is only in terms of text messaging and in no way restricts making phone calls on cellular devices. If you use a hands-free text messaging system such as DriveSafe.ly or Bluetooth, that is okay.
◦ The ban does not prevent text messaging when you are stopped at a stop light; only when you are driving according to those at the Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department.
◦ A police officer may ask to see your cell phone but you are NOT required to show it to him or give it to him; police officers do not have the right to confiscate your cell phone.
◦ A police officer can pull you over if they suspect you are texting and driving. But even if you refuse to show the officer your phone, they can still write you a citation if they saw you texting or reading a text (or claim that they saw you).
For more information on the new law, call your local police or sheriff’s department to ask your questions.

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(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, at left, newly crowned Miss Whitley County Erica Nicodemus receives a hug from outgoing Miss Whitley County Amy Wagnor. At right, 2011 Mr. Whitley County Eric Emerick receives a hug from 2010 Mr. Whitley County Jeffrey Gruettert. Below, Nicodemus and Emerick beam as they take their victorious walk across the stage.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

In an audience filled with proud parents, beaming grandparents, giddy friends and little girls dreaming of the day they might one day walk across the stage for the Mr. & Miss Whitley County scholarship pageant, everyone had a wish for a young man or young woman who stood before them. Someone would wear the coveted sash and the crown by the end of the night and represent his and her community during the 2011 Whitley County 4-H Fair.
This was the 19th annual Mr. Whitley County pageant and the 43rd annual Miss Whitley County pageant.
In all, 26 contestants sought titles Monday evening at First Church of God where nearly all seats were filled with an anxious, upbeat crowd. Contestants included: Kennedy St. George, Tyler Sheets, Elizabeth Fleming, Holly Kyler, Haleigh Gross, Jordan Gilbert, Rachel Atkins, Nathan Wilz, Bailey Keener, Brooke Carter, Tiffany Clary, April Gibson, Eric Emerick, Lindzie Gibson, Rachelle Kessie, Alivia Gruettert, Ellen Bernhard, Mollie Coy, Katie Barnett, Amelia Roman, Samantha Hartman, Erica Nicodemus, Olivia Western, Cody Brommer-Grisby, Lauren Shively and Christena Hoopingarner.
In the end, the judges selected the following contestants as the 2011 Whitley County 4-H royalty:  Miss Whitley County 2011 is Erica Nicodemus and Mr. Whitley County is Eric Emerick. Nicodemus was also named Miss Congeniality and Emerick was named Mr. Spirit. The court includes: Olivia Western, fourth runner up; Rachelle Kessie, third runner up; Nathan Wilz, second runner up; Alivia Gruettert, second runner up; Jordan Gilbert, first runner up; Katie Barnett, first runner up.
Judges this year included Darrell Douglas, Nicole McVicker and Bailey Hoover. Douglas has had a role in pageant judging for more than 25 years, including roles in the Miss America qualifiying pageants and the Miss Indiana State Fair pageant. McVicker, of Marion, Indiana, is a Purdue University graduate and a lawyer specializing in elder law and estate planning. Hoover, a corporate nurse, is the 2005 Miss Pulaski County and the 2006 Indiana State Fair queen.
Several past Whitley County 4-H royalty were in attendance for the pageant Monday evening, including Miss Whitley County 2006 Jessica Leedy, Miss Whitley County 1976 Julie Henney, Miss Whitley County 2004 Tara Maddox, Miss Whitley County 1996 Danielle Ziliak, Miss Whitley County 1970 Janet Johnson, Miss Whitley County 1973 Jayne Oliver and others.
The reigning Miss Indiana State Fair Sara Alford was also present and gave an overview of her activities and of special items of note for the 2011 Indiana State Fair. Alford's visit to Whitley County was the 15th of 35 planned speaking engagements she has between now as the State Fair.
Outgoing Mr. & Miss Whitley County Jeffrey Gruettert and Amy Wagnor spoke about their experience over the past year representing the community and the 4-H program, and passing on a bit of advice to future royals Emerick and Nicodemus.
"For as long as you hold the title, milk it," said Gruettert. "Make your siblings do your chores!"
"Remember to be humble, but proud -- you're representing a great community," Wagnor said.
Wagoner also had a piece of advice for the other contestants who would leave the stage with out the sashes, crowns or titles, saying, "There are 23 other people right beside you. Do not feel defeated." She said she, too, stood on the stage several years ago after not winning, but opted to give it another try -- which was successful in 2010. She said others may try again and win too.
In addition to the business of the pageant, several other awards were presented Monday evening, including the BV Widney Award, Hester Adams Awards and Jim Teghtmeyer Awards. The BV Widney award was presented to Sarah Palmer. The Jim Teghtmeyer Award was presented to Olivia Western. The Hester Adams Awards were presented to Rachel Atkins and Sarah Marschand. The Hester Adams honor group included Evan VanHouten, Kelsey Sheets, Blake Reust, Holly Kyler, April Gibson and Hayley Gardner.
Scholarship sponsors for this year's pageant include Whitley County 4-H Inc., Whitley County 4-H Council, Whitley County Ag Museum & Learning Center, J&J Insurance, Columbia City Rotary Club, D&R Farms in addition to funds raised from the kisses sold at the 2010 auction.
The pageant was organized by directors John Hilligoss and his daughter, Danielle Ziliak. The program committee also included Nola Adams, Cindy Coburn, Jennifer Sery, Heather Everingham and Tara Van Houten. Sandy Thomson served as the evening's emcee.

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From reports

The Whitley County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting an "After Hours" networking and social event this evening, Tuesday, June 28, 2011, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home in Columbia City.
Prize drawings are planned and refreshments will be served.
The event is free to Chamber members and $2 per person for non-members. An RSVP is not required, but may be made by calling the Chamber at 248-8131.
DeMoney-Grimes is located at 600 Countryside Drive.

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Editor's Note: Other awards, including the 4-H Tenure awards and the Dean Hoffman Memorial Scholarship will be awarded during the 2011 Parade of Champions, slated for Saturday, July 16, at 6 p.m. in the large show arena at the Whitley County 4-H Fairgrounds.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Just minutes ago, the 2011 Mr. & Miss Whitley County scholarship pageant drew to a close at First Church of God in Columbia City. Miss Whitley County 2011 is Erica Nicodemus and Mr. Whitley County is Eric Emerick. Nicodemus was also named Miss Congeniality and Emerick was named Mr. Spirit. The court includes: Olivia Western, fourth runner up; Rachelle Kessie, third runner up; Nathan Wilz, second runner up; Alivia Gruettert, second runner up; Jordan Gilbert, first runner up; Katie Barnett, first runner up.
Above, from left, is Jordan Gilbert, Olivia Western, Katie Barnett, Erica Nicodemus, Eric Emerick, Alivia Gruettert, Rachelle Kessie and Nathan Wilz.

Additional photos and coverage of this evening's pageant will appear Tuesday on Talk of the Town.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided)
The Mr. & Miss WHitley County Scholarship pageant will be held this evening, Monday, June 27, 2011, at 7 p.m. at First Church of God in Columbia City. In addition to seeing the program, several awards will be presented, including the BV Widney Award, Hester Adams Award, 4-H Tenure, Jim Teghtmeyer Award and the Hoffman Scholarship. Above, 2010 Miss Whitley County Amy Wagoner and Mr. Whitley County Jeff Gruettert, seated at center front, are surrounded by this year's contestants. The pageant is coordinated by Danielle Ziliak and John Hilligoss.

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Parkview Health’s Integrated Community Nursing Program is one of five programs nationally to receive the American Hospital Association (AHA) NOVA Award.
The awards will be given at a July 19 ceremony during the AHA/Health Forum Leadership Summit in San Diego.
Parkview’s Integrated Community Nursing Program provides responsive, comprehensive and accessible health care options to the most disadvantaged in communities in northeast Indiana. This is done by bringing together area schools, local non-profit social service agencies, foundations, government agencies, the Fort Wayne-Allen County Department of Health, and Parkview community nursing staff to identify health issues and needs specific to the community and provide services that include health screenings, immunizations, referrals, home visits, health care plans, follow-up, community and family education, and connection to a medical home. 
“This is a tremendous honor for the community nursing program and Parkview,” said Sue Ehinger, chief operating officer, Parkview Hospital. “Our innovative and patient care-focused programs are designed to improve the health of the communities we serve. To be recognized as one of five programs in the country demonstrates Parkview’s commitment to providing excellent service. A special thank you to the community nursing staff for their tireless efforts to help those in need of care and support.”
Parkview results have included:
*Fewer emergency room visits and hospitalizations for asthma patients
*More than 30,000 students have been vaccinated to protect from influenza
*Nearly 8,000 students each year receive vision screenings
*Over the past two years, more than 1,100 safety-approved cribs have been given to parents who might not otherwise be able to afford them.
*No deaths have occurred to infants due to unsafe sleep whose parents participated in a safe sleep education program
“Community nursing is proud to be part of a health system that is invested in the health of our communities,” said Connie Kerrigan, manager of community nursing, Parkview Hospital. “We are fortunate to be governed by a Board of Directors who are members of our communities and led by a CEO and leadership team who see the opportunity to improve the health of the communities we serve as an important part of our mission.”
Established in 1993, the AHA NOVA Award recognizes hospitals and health systems for their collaborative efforts toward improving community health.

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By Blair West

At the midway point in the year, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation announced that it has worked with 123 companies that have made decisions to expand or establish new business operations in Indiana for a total of more than 11,000 projected new jobs. This compares with 200 decisions by companies to locate a projected 23,000 new jobs in the state, announced at year-end last year.
The new positions, which companies expect to hire over the next five years, pay an expected average hourly wage of $22.88, above the state's current hourly wage of $18.71. Since January, the more than 120 companies anticipate investing $1.76 billion in their Indiana operations in the coming years. Meanwhile, the average amount of state performance-based tax incentives offered to companies on a per job basis is $8,622, below the 2010 year-end amount of $9,981. 
Earlier today, the IEDC announced that Fronius USA, LLC, the fourth-largest solar inverter producer in the world, is the 1,000th new business establishment or expansion the agency has completed since its inception in 2005. Since Fronius' relocation was finalized, the state has completed an additional 125 competitive projects for a total of 1,125 transactions with growing companies. Nearly two-thirds of all projects involve expansions of existing Indiana businesses.
Business consolidations from Illinois have been a trend this year with 12 companies so far planning to move all or a portion of their operations to Indiana. Many of those companies are still completing final transition plans and will be announced in the coming months but a few companies to recently announce moves to the Hoosier State include Berry Plastics, NetShape Technologies and American College of Education.
"Indiana continues to be noticed for its low-tax, fiscally sound environment and with our corporate tax rate on its way down, we are further distinguished from neighboring states and global competitors as a location that is welcoming to new business investment," said Mitch Roob, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. 
The IEDC's mid-year update adds to some recent good news about Indiana's economy. According to a report released this month by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Indiana's Gross Domestic Product grew at a rate of 4.6 percent in 2010, the third fastest growth in the nation and more than 50 percent faster than the national average. Earlier this month, Indiana's employment outlook for the third quarter of 2011 was rated third best in the nation by Manpower Group.
Indiana has also been recognized as a top location for business by business leaders and site selection consultants in two recent surveys. In May, Chief Executive magazine ranked Indiana the best place to do business in the Midwest and the sixth best nationwide, up from 16th place in 2010, in its seventh annual "Best & Worst States" survey. Also in May, Area Development magazine awarded the Indiana Economic Development Corporation with a 2011 Gold Shovel award, the publication's top honor for economic development efforts.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided) Peeking over a neighbor's fence, do you happen to see a beautiful sight such as this? If so, nominate your neighbor for the 2012 Garden Walk which will be held in Churubusco. 

By Viv Sade of BuscoVoice.com

Do you know a neighbor with a great-looking yard?
The Whitley County Master Gardeners wants you to turn in your neighbor — for next year’s Garden Walk, that is, which will be held in Churubusco.
Linda Reuter, a Master Gardener who lives in Churubusco, said her organization is looking for six or seven gardens in the Churubusco area to be featured in the June 2012 Walk.
“We are not looking for a specific size or type of garden,” Reuter said. “We just want nice, well cared for gardens that the owners will be willing to share with the public.”
The only responsibility owners have is to maintain the garden as usual — Reuter said they don’t expect them to spend a lot of extra money.
“We just want them to do what they would normally do,” she said.
The Whitley County Master Gardeners will be selecting homes for the 2012 Churubusco Walk throughout the end of June and first week of July.
You’ve still got time to turn in your neighbor!
To turn in a neighbor, call Reuter at 693-3157 or 417-4614 or email her at ralreuter@aol.com.

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(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, members of the Old Settlers Day Association present the plaque for "Whitley County's Oldest Citizen" to Florence Keiser, second from left. Below, Keiser enjoys the celebration of her long life in Whitley County with her granddaughter, Tara VanHouten.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

If you don't count those seven years she lived along the north shore of Loon Lake in Noble County, Florence Schrader Keiser would have taken home two big awards last night when the community came together to celebrate its elders at Old Settlers Day.
Still, at precisely 98 and a half years-old, Keiser was named Whitley County's Oldest Citizen after registering at the traditional Old Settlers Day roll books at the Whitley County Historical Society Thursday. Those seven years cost her the "Longest Continuous Resident" award...but those were good years and she doesn't regret a single one of them!
Born in Whitley County on October 27, 1912, Keiser is the daughter of Elmer & Bessie Smith Schrader. Growing up with three brothers and a sister, she's been fortunate to enjoy her golden years with her 90 year-old younger sister, Doris Pittenger, who is still living.
Schrader attended her full eight years of schooling at Schrader School, a highlight of which was earning perfect attendance.
Her most serious childhood illness could have cost her the big award back then, but timing was everything.
"I got the measles over Christmas vacation," Schrader said beaming. "I thank the Lord for that!" She came down with measles after school let out for Christmas break and she convalesced during the weeks off at home, becoming well in time to return to school with her classmates as though nothing had happened.
Keiser and her husband, Walter, farmed together for 25 years and owned the Keiser Restaurant from 1957 to 1965. The restaurant was located where Teghtmeyer's Ace Hardware used to be in downtown Columbia City on Van Buren Street.
Additionally, Keiser worked at the Blue Bell factory for several years and was a dedicated housewife and mother to her three children, Joanna Sewell, Loretta Forst and Jack Keiser.
Today, she enjoys her ten grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

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(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Elmer Heinley, above at center, was named the Old Settlers Days Longest Continuous Resident Thursday evening at a ceremony on the grandstand. Joining in his award celebration were OSDA second vice president Glenn Snapp and 2011 OSDA president Jacie Worrick. Heinley has lived in Whitley County for his whole life -- 96 years.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

He's the last living person in his family to grow up in Hell's Half Acre, a once notorious area of Whitley County where members of the Heinley family lived for more than a century.
The name of the place sounds bone rattling, but as a boy Elmer Heinley's recollections of the old place are serene. The wilder days of Hell's Half Acre were just stories by the time he grew up there.
At the age of 96, Heinley was honored Thursday evening during Old Settlers Days as the Longest Continuous Resident of Whitley County, garnering a plaque and ample hugs from those who know and love him.
"I've been registering for a long time," Heinley laughed as he awaited receipt of his award.
Heinley's memory goes back a long, long way -- back to when he recalls Van Buren Street wasn't paved and back to the day when there were quite a few Heinleys around...many of which named William and Elmer or a combination fo those names.
"That name has caused me untold difficulty my whole life," Heinley said. Confusion over several uncles and other family members meant his name got changed around a few times over the years -- culminating with a visit to the Farmers Loan & Trust where someone decided to name him "EW Heinley." Now, everybody calls him Elmer and there's no confusion about that.
A son of Elmer and Pearl Barnhill Heinley, he is a 1933 graduate of Columbia City High School. After graduation, he farmed full time alongside his bride of 72 years, Helen.
"She was as much a part of the farming as me," Heinley remembers. Sadly, Heinley said farewell to Helen about a month ago as she passed on to her great reward.
"She was a great partner and a great woman," he said, smiling.
Heinley has lived on the same farm 94 years.
A fire chief for Columbia Township for 20 years, he was the first president of the Columbia City Planning and Zoning commission, has been a faithful member of the Columbia City Rotary Club for 58 years and taught Sunday School for 50 years. He was also a member of his church council from 1938 until the 1960s. Heinley served as vice president of the building corporation that built the "new" Columbia City High School in the 1950s.
Heinley must have done a good job at all of that, he says, because, "I didn't get thrown out of town!"
He enjoyed calling for square dancing for many years, and delighted those in attendance Wednesday evening with one of his favorite calls.
A few years ago, he was awarded the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash award by Governor Mitch Daniels.
Looking back over his long life, he believes it is his laid back attitude that has been his fountain of youth.
"I've just had a lot of fun and enjoyed life immensely," Heinley said. "Hard work, enjoying life and enjoying people... I just always have. I've just never really had anything upset me."
Heinley is the father of one daughter, Sandra Jean Holler, and has two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
It's been a misty, dreary day -- not unlike the typical weather in Scotland... and rather fitting as volunteers have spent the day setting up for the 25th annual Indiana Highland Games & Scottish Festival at the Whitley County 4H Fairgrounds. Above, bleacher seating has been set up around the fairgrounds to providing great vantage points for visitors to enjoy the competitions tomorrow, Saturday, June 25, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. There is no fee to attend the festival, which was made possible by a grant from the Whitley County Community Foundation. Click here to see the full schedule of events for the day.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) A Rikkar mini vacuum, below, donated by Aladdin Carpet, is among the many items donated by local businesses as part of the "Don't Leave Town" promotion to urge local residents to participate in the many, many activities happening in and around Columbia City this Saturday, June 25, 2011. 

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Did you purchase a "Don't Leave Town" t-shirt in recent weeks?
All part of an initiative by the Whitley County Business & Networking group and the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce, the shirts were just part of an effort to promote the many, many events happening this Saturday, June 25, 2011, in Columbia City. Now, those with shirts are asked to attend at least four of the following events:
- Indiana Highland Games & Scottish Festival - 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at the Whitley County 4H Fairgrounds
- Habitat for Humanity's Hammer Run in Morsches Park at 8 a.m.
- Master Gardener's Garden Walk around Whitley County from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Habitat for Humanity's Hammer it Home Car Show - 12 p.m. - Whitley County Family YMCA
- Old Settlers Day festivities downtown until 10 p.m.
- OSD Run/Walk along the parade route at 5 p.m.
- American Legion OSD Parade at 5 p.m.
- Mizpah Shrine Parade of Lights along the parade route (follows OSD parade)
Once you've attended four events, send an email to the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce at sara@whitleychamber.com or post a message about what you attended on the Chamber's Facebook page. You could also post a picture of yourself attending the events wearing your Don't Leave Town shirt or a photo of your shirt with the activities you attended marked off on the back. You will then be entered in a drawing to win a prize package including the following items:

- a Riccar Gem mini vacuum cleaner donated by Aladdin Carpet Cleaning.
- LOADS of gourmet popcorn from Kernel Colada's Snack Shack.
- a 1.5 hour Thai yoga massage from Laughing Lotus Yoga Studio -- valued at $75.
- $50 worth of Chamber Bucks donated by Ruoff Mortgage Company.
- the 8x10 photo of your choice from the archives of Talk of the Town.
- $25 in Chamber Bucks from the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce.
- and MUCH, much more!

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

There will be a lot going on in Columbia City tomorrow in conjunction with the 108th annual Old Settlers Days & American Legion Festival -- but judging by the quantity of folding chairs typically set up along Main Street days in advance, the parade is one event almost everyone plans to attend.
The American Legion's Old Settlers Day parade will begin at 5 p.m. at Columbia City High School, move northward on Whitley Street to North Street and then south on Main Street to Ellsworth Street.
This year, immediately following the parade, the Mizpah Shrine will host a parade of lights along the same parade route. So, stay seated and watch the show! Dozens of entries are expected in the Mizpah Shrine's parade.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Following a full day of the traditional Old Settlers Day registration at at the Whitley County Historical Museum, two awards were presented on the grandstand this evening, honoring Whitley County's elders. Florence Schrader Keiser was named Whitley County's Oldest Citizen and Elmer Heinley was named Whitley County's Longest Continuous Resident by the Old Settlers Day Association. Above, from left, is third vice president Kay Fleck, Florence Schrader Keiser, second vice president Glenn Snapp, Elmer Heinley and 2011 OSDA president Jacie Worrick.
Full stories about the lives of Heinley and Keiser will appear tomorrow on Talk of the Town.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided) The Coach purse, below, filled with prizes donated by local businesses will be raffled off to support the Columbia City High School cheerleaders. 

From reports

The Columbia City High School cheerleaders are selling raffle tickets for a Coach® Ashley Snaphead Satchel Bag at their Old Settler’s booth in front of Odyssey Travel from now through Saturday, June 25, 2011.
The purse will also be filled with other outstanding items from local businesses like Richard’s, Whitley Tire, Sheer Envy, Memory Lane, Andy’s Car Wash, Family Video, Color Me Tan, Los Tequilas, Mancinos, Shoes and Moore, Pizza Hut and more.
Tickets are $2 each or 3 tickets for $5. The drawing will be held at 9 p.m. on Saturday, June 25. Participants need not be present to win. The total value of the prize is $400.

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From reports

The families, staff and students of Faith Christian Academy are raising funds this week with a booth at the Old Settlers Day midway. Look for puffed carmel corn, giant pickles and ice water. Proceeds will support Faith Christian Academy, Whitley County's only non-denominational Christian school for students in preschool through grade 8.

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2011 Indiana Highland Games & Scottish Festival
Schedule of Events
Saturday, June 25, 2011 - 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
(Farmers Market opens at 8 a.m.)
Whitley County 4-H Fairgrounds

8 a.m. - Whitley County Farmers Market opens
9 a.m.- Festival begins, Athletes Register
9:30 a.m.  - Athletic competition beings
11 a.m. - Children's Games & Activities with the Whitley County Historical Society 
12 p.m. - Opening Ceremonies & lunch break for athletes
12 p.m. - Address to the Haggis & Scottish Food Tasting at the Culture & Hospitality Tent
1 p.m. - Athletic Competition resumes
3 p.m. - Children's Games & Activiteis with the Whitley County Historical Society
4 p.m. - Scottish cuisine tasting at the Culture & Hospitality Tent
4:30 p.m. - Athletic Awards Presentation & Closing of the Games

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From reports

The VFW hall on Chicago Street in Columbia City will not be hosting karaoke this Friday, June 24, due to all of the activities going on with Old Settlers Days. Karaoke will, however, be offered at 8 p.m. on July 8 and again at 8 p.m. on July 22.

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By Cindy Barnett

Picture your garden overflowing with plump, juicy tomatoes, shiny green peppers, and crisp green beans. 
Imagine picking juicy peaches, pears, and apples from the local orchards or selecting fresh produce from baskets at the local farmers’ markets.
Why not save some of this bounty to enjoy all through the year?  Food preservation is the process of treating and handling food to stop or greatly slow down spoilage, loss of quality, edibility or nutritive value caused or accelerated by micro-organisms.
Learn to preserve foods safely. The Purdue Extension Service in Whitley County will be conducting "Preserving Nature’s Bounty" workshops to discuss safe home food preservation procedures and to answer the frequently asked questions on canning, freezing and drying foods.   Workshops are scheduled for:
- Wednesday, June 29, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., South Whitley Town Hall
- Wednesday, July 27, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. or 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. or 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Whitley County Extension Office
- Tuesday, August 23, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Churubusco Utilities Building
The cost is $3 per person, which is payable at the door.  For more information, contact Cindy Barnett, Extension Educator, cbarnett@purdue.edu.
To register, call 244-7615 or 625-3313.

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(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, newest Red Coat Kay Fleck is congratulated by 1977 Old Settlers Day Association president Keith Dowell. Below, 1987 Old Settlers Day Association president John Lefever helps Kay Fleck into her newly minted Red Coat.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

A much-beloved member of the community, the Old Settlers Day Association Red Coats selected Kay Fleck to be the newest member of their group -- presenting her with a scarlet jacket of her own during their annual dinner Tuesday evening at the Eagles Nest Event Center.
Fleck, the former executive director of Passages Inc. and long-time community volunteer, was selected by ballots submitted by all living Red Coat honorees. Only the fourth woman to receive the honor in 108 years, Fleck is in good company with Jacie Worrick, Laura Lefever and Patricia McNagny. McNagny was the first woman selected to be a Red Coat and served as president of the OSDA in 1997.
Born in Rapid City, South Dakota, Fleck spent her childhood in the Black Hills of South Dakota and in Wyoming. She was a 1963 graduate of Hot Springs High School. A graduate of Indiana University, she met and married college classmate Columbia City Mayor Jim Fleck in 1967. The couple moved to Fleck's hometown of Columbia City in 1969.
"I really didn't know a girl who grew up in South Dakota and Wyoming could be a Red Coat," Fleck said after receiving her jacket during the dinner, but said that she was honored for the opportunity to serve as the community's newest Red Coat, an honor that will require her leadership as president of the association in four years.
Fleck is a member of the Columbia City United Methodist Church, participated in the founding of the Whitley County Community Foundation and serves on the board of directors for Parkview Whitley Hospital. Additionally, she's a member of Master Gardeners, ARC of Indiana and the Whitley County Arts Partnership.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Strong winds ahead of stormy weather created some problems in downtown Columbia City this afternoon, overturning several tents along the midway. Above, passersby determine what to do after a non-profit organization's tent has blown over on Van Buren Street.

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(Talk of the Town photo by TRSmith of the Tribune-News) Whitko students recently held a benefit concert to raise funds for the Whitley County Domestic Violence Task Force in memory of their friend, the late Kaylin Doggendorf. From left above is Alycia Long, Sherry Sausaman of the Whitley County Domestic Violence Task Force, Eric Blanton, Erika Fugate, Jessica Zinsmeister and Breanna Welsh.
 

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

In memory of a dearly departed friend, five Whitko High School freshmen recently pooled their talents and resources to host a fundraiser for the Whitley County Domestic Violence Task Force.
The benefit concert, called "Caring for Kaylin," was held in memory of classmate and friend Kaylin Doggendorf who was murdered last year. The event featured three high school bands and raised $160.25 for the Whitley County Domestic Violence Task Force.
"It is a perfect fit to the be used to support the program that the Whitley County Domestic Violence Task Force has planned for August 4 called Girls Embracing Maximum Safety (GEMS)," said task force member Sherry Sausaman after accepting the donation from the teens. "The GEMS program is specifically for high school girls entering their junior or senior year in the fall or heading off to college in the fall for the first time."
"We use the money raised to help with the costs of this program since it is free to those who want to attend," Sausaman said.
The program is a workshop style with four 20-minute sessions of speakers on the following safety topics: internet safety, emotional safety including coping with homesickness at college, heavy school schedules and making healthy decisions, sexual safety when Dr. Lisa Hatcher will have a frank discussion about sexually transmitted diseases, personal safety, during which time Living Arts will be teaching some self defense maneuvers.
Additionally, several corporate sponsor vendors such as Verizon Wireless will have a cell phone and texting safety session. "The fun part of the night will be all the fabulous give away door prizes that have been donated," Sausaman said. "Local companies have been generous with fun things that high school girls will enjoy, such as jewelry, massages, food and others."
Participants can register online at www.whitleycountydomesticviolencetaskforce.org or by calling Sherry Sausaman at 609-7086 or Pat Mossburg at 248-1711 if you’d like to register or have questions.
"The timing of the Caring for Kaylin group is tremendous with this event and we are so proud of the terrific kids that our in Whitley County and honored that the task force was chosen by them to support," said Sausaman in summary.

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By Kelley Lefever 

The Whitley County Economic Development Corporation will be hosting a series of business seminars designed around supporting Whitley County business with the resources they need to be successful.
The Summer Series: Strategic Leveraging for your Business will begin on June 30, 2011, and continue through August 26.
Featured speakers will include Anthony Juliano of the Asher Agency, Ola Degabriele of the City of Fort Wayne and Joe Sepkovich of the Technical Assistance Program at Purdue University.
Each session begins at 8 a.m. at the Whitley County Government Center, 220 West Van Buren Street, in the lower level meeting rooms.
Session topics include:
• Thursday June 30 – Social Marketing: Fitting the pieces together
• Thursday July 28 - Foreign Trade Zone: Alternative Site Framework Application
• Thursday August 25 – Advanced Manufacturing: Lean
For more information and registration, please visit the events page at www.whitleyedc.com

The Whitley County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is the lead economic development agency in Whitley County, Indiana.  The EDC works closely with local, regional, and state partners to support our industry clients' growth and success.  Our mission is to implement a unified economic development effort and to expand employment and business opportunities for the benefit of the people of Whitley County by developing and maintaining cooperation of all individuals, groups, and organizations within the county.  The WhitleyCounty EDC was established in 1992 and represents Whitley County, Columbia City, and the Towns of Churubusco, Larwill and South Whitley.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided) Sara Lochner-Goff, president of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce, attended Institute for Organization Management in early June, an intensive training program to better help her lead initiatives pertaining to the enhancement of the local business environment.

Article provided

Sara Lochner-Goff, president of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce, has recently completed her first year at Institute for Organization Management (Institute), an intensive week-long nonprofit leadership training program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, held June 5-9, 2011, at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. 
“Institute participants are recognized across the country as talented leaders in their organizations and communities,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, the U.S. Chamber’s vice president of Institute for Organization Management. “These individuals have the knowledge, skills, and dedication necessary to achieve professional and organizational success in the dynamic association and chamber industries.”
Since 1921, chambers of commerce and associations have used the U.S. Chamber’s Institute program as a training platform for the professional development of their top talent.  Institute’s curriculum consists of four, weeklong sessions at five different university locations throughout the country.  Each week, participants receive training in leadership, advocacy, finance, membership, emerging technologies, and many other organization management competencies.
Graduates of Institute receive the IOM recognition, signifying completion of 96 hours of course instruction in nonprofit management. In addition, participants can earn points toward the Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) or Certified Association Executive (CAE) certifications. Nearly 1,000 individuals attend Institute annually.
Institute is a 501(c) (3) affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and is the premier nonprofit professional development program for association and chamber professionals, fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Less than an hour ago, the Old Settlers Day Association named long-time community leader and faithful volunteer Kay Fleck as the newest Red Coat. Fleck is only the fourth woman ever selected by Red Coats honorees from across the decades for the prestigious honor, a tradition going back 108 years. Fleck, at center above, stands alongside OSDA second vice president Glenn Snapp and 2011 OSDA president Jacie Worrick.
A full story and additional photographs from this evening's Red Coats Dinner will appear on Talk of the Town on Wednesday.

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(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
The 2011 Old Settlers Days and American Legion Festival began today in Columbia City, a time-honored tradition of homecoming, elephant ears, lemon shakeups and good times. If you're ready to plan out your week's activities, click here to review the full schedule for the week and get ready to enjoy some of what this 107th annual event has to offer -- including a variety of brand new events this year, including the 25th annual Indiana Highland Games & Scottish Festival that will be held at the Whitley County 4-H Fairgrounds on Saturday, June 25, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission to that event is free.
Above, an uncharacteristically quiet night at the midway in 2010.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Today, the Columbia City Rotary Club welcomed new member Doug Fahl. An attorney, veteran and current Whitley County Superior Court Judge, Fahl became the club's fourteenth new member to join in the past year. Fahl was nominated for membership by fellow Rotarian Jim Banks. Above, Columbia City Rotary Club president Erica Miller welcomes Doug Fahl to club membership.

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From reports

Whitley County Business and Networking will meet this Friday, June 24, 2011, at 8:30 a.m. at the Brew Ha on Main Street in Columbia City. Any local business person or non-profit leader is invited to attend and share information about their business or upcoming events. There is no cost to attend or participate.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided)  Ralph Wall and Dale Sheets were friends for a very long time. They both served in the Armed Forces during World War II and their time together stationed in Florida for the military brought them together as life-long friends.
While Ralph was in the hospital, Dale Sheets asked Ralph if he and his wife, Marilyn Wall, could give him a lift to the D-Day Commemoration held June 4, 2011, in downtown Columbia City, sponsored by the Whitley County Historical Society. Marilyn said that she would. Because Ralph had just been released from the hospital he was able to go along for the ride when Marilyn drove Dale to the ceremony. Although both men made it to the courthouse, Ralph, after his recent hospital stay, was not feeling well enough to walk to the courthouse lawn for the D-Day Commemoration. Dale was also celebrating his 90th birthday.
After the ceremony Marilyn put the medal around Ralph’s neck. His time in the military was honored with the admiration of the community and with a medal from an anonymous donor. The obverse of the medal reads, “From your grateful community.” Ralph and Dale are shown standing together, above, after receiving their medals.
The D-Day Commemoration presented by the Whitley County Historical Society, made possible with the efforts of Scott Allison and Jeanette Brown, welcomed more than 80 of Whitley County's estimated 110 living World War II veterans.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
City streets that just hours before were filled with weekday traffic are now hustling and bustling with pre-Old Settlers Days activities, above, as local clubs and organizations hurriedly set up their fundraising booths for the festival. The 107th annual Old Settlers Days will commence tomorrow in Columbia City, with activities going on almost constantly until late Saturday evening.

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The South Whitley Farmers Market will be open each Friday evening, now through October, from 4 to 8 p.m. in the stone lot adjacent to The Brownstone on State restaurant in downtown South Whitley. Dozens of vendors plan to participate, adding a unique atmosphere. Additionally, The Brownstone is planning dinner specials and entertainment to further complement the evening events.

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(Talk of the Town photos provided) Participating in the groundbreaking ceremony for a new ambulance building on the Parkview Whitley Hospital campus are, from left above, Debra Brice, paramedic; Bill Bennett, advanced EMT; Annette Ruckman, advanced EMT; Beth Hall, advanced EMT; and Alex Honigford, paramedic.

Article provided

Parkview Whitley Hospital broke ground June 15 for a new 5,500 square-foot ambulance building at its new hospital site, with construction of the $900,000 project to begin soon after. It is scheduled to open on October 20, the same day as the new hospital.
On hand at the groundbreaking were several Whitley County Council members, county commissioners, hospital staff members and hospital board members, a number of whom wielded shovelfuls of dirt, officially kicking off the new building project.
The new ambulance building will replace the building located at the current hospital on Oak Street in Columbia City, and will feature four ambulance bays, a trailer garage, two sleeping quarters, a dayroom, a kitchen, a meeting room, two administrative offices, a workout room and a storage room.
“I am excited that we are moving forward with the construction of a new ambulance building for Whitley County,” said Scott Gabriel, Parkview Whitley Hospital chief operating officer. “We are strongly committed to providing excellent EMS services for our community, and this newest project reflects the ongoing partnership with the community that we intend to nurture for many decades to come.”
EMS Manager Duane Ginder added that the hospital will continue to provide the quality service that Whitley County residents have come to expect. Ginder noted that the national standard response time for an emergency call is less than 13 minutes. “We come under that more than 90 percent of the time,” he said.
“In 2010,” he added, “we ranked in the top 20 percent in patient satisfaction surveys nationally. In the first quarter of 2011, we were in the top 1 percent.”
Whitley County EMS employs 17 paramedics, 18 advanced EMTs and six EMTs. There are three ambulances located in Columbia City, two of which are staffed and one that is a spare. Churubusco and South Whitley each have an ambulance as well, both of which are on-call.
In 2010, Parkview Whitley Hospital’s EMS team responded to 3,494 emergencies and transported 2,329 patients.

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(Talk of the Town graphic provided)
An artist's rendering, above, shows the 5500 square foot ambulance facility that will be constructed on the Parkview Whitley Hospital campus on the east side of Columbia City. A ceremonial groundbreaking was held June 15, 2011, for the $900,000 facility. Construction will be swift as a hospital spokesman says the building will open October 20, 2011 -- the same day the new hospital is scheduled to open. The ambulance facility will feature four ambulance bays, a trailer garage, two sleeping quarters, a dayroom, a kitchen, a meeting room, two administrative offices, a workout room and a storage room.

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(Talk of the Town graphic provided) 

Article provided

Local software development company SubdivisionINFO.com announced today that the company is launching its proprietary web solution for home buyers in new markets in 2011. 
The company anticipates adding three employees immediately and up to 25-30 employees by 2013 to support its expansion.
“SubdivisionINFO.com has developed the country’s first online resource for new home buyers to search for subdivision information,” said company president Lamonte Rhoades. “I anticipate steady growth in the coming months as our team develops relationships with home builders throughout the company.”
The Whitley County Council recently approved a multi-phase, CEDIT-based Revolving Loan Fund award to support the company’s software development.  Rhoades also recently participated in the EDC’s Small Business and Entrepreneurship Initiative (SBEI), which included completion of a FastTrac New Ventures business planning program. In all, 26 entrepreneurs and small business owners have participated in the program since its inception in spring 2009.
“SubdivisionINF.com is a case study of the high growth, local growth companies that are going to be important to our community’s economic success in the years ahead,” said EDC president Alan Tio. “I look forward to working with Lamonte as he continues to grow his company in Whitley County.”
SubdivisionINFO.com was formed in 2005 to provide a comprehensive one-stop-shop for all information on subdivisions within targeted regional markets. Initial test markets include Dallas, TX and Columbus, OH. The site is accessed by home buyers, home sellers, developers, builders, and home related retailers such as carpet/flooring manufacturers and audio video retailers.

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(Talk of the Town photo courtesy BuscoVoice.com) Bill Martinson of Fremont has had this giant snapper since the turtle was a baby, about an inch or two long - over 20 years! The snapping turtle is a family pet and is very docile. Martinson pets the turtle under the chin in this photo and says his grandson loves to ride the giant reptile.

By Viv Sade of BuscoVoice.com

Every year in June Bill Martinson of Fremont travels to Churubusco to attend the annual Turtle Days Festival. And traveling with him is his longtime pet turtle – a huge snapper!
Martinson strokes the little fella … er, big fella under the chin and the reptile seems to love it — a bystander might swear it almost “purrs,” or would, if turtles could purr.
What the heck?!
Martinson said his family found the turtle when it was very small –  he demonstrates a 1- to 2-inch span with his fingers — and they raised him like they would a cat or dog, as a family pet. That was 20 years ago.
Martinson lets the turtle walk alongside him and explore the terrain and when small children run up to pet the turtle — and their parents scream in horror — Martinson tells them not to worry.
“He loves it,” he said of his hard-shelled buddy, “and my grandson rides him around the yard like a pony.”

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(Talk of the Town photo provided)
The 2011 edition of Teen Idol at Peabody Public Library recently drew to a close. The Season 2: Get Up and Sing winners included Grace Scott, first place; Athena Arnold, second place; and Alyssa Davis, third place. Shown above, from left, is  Alyssa Davis and Grace Scott.

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The following activities are planned this week at the Peabody Public Library:

Adrian Empire Local Medieval Faire: Sunday, all day beginning at 10 a.m. The public is invited to attend.

Free Zumba intermediate class: Monday, June 20 at 6 p.m.

Free Self Defense beginners class: Monday, June 20 at 7 p.m.

Book Discussion: Tuesday, June 21 at 12 p.m. The book selection is The Red Tent by Anita Diamant. Sandwiches and beverage are provided. You may bring something to share.

Friends of the Library Annual Book Sale: Friday, June 24 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, June 25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Watch for staff and supporters of the Peabody Public Library as they participate in the American Legion's Old Settlers Day parade Saturday, June 25 at 5 p.m.

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(Talk of the Town photos by Tony Romano)
The 62nd annual Turtle Days festival, said to be the longest continuously presented festival in the state, continues on this evening in Churubusco's Turtle Town Park. The midway, shown here, will be open tonight and tomorrow evening until 10 p.m. Other opportunities for entertainment tonight and tomorrow abound as well, including onstage entertainment and the Churubusco Fire Department's fish and tenderloin dinner tonight. Tomorrow, look forward to a poker run, barbecue cookoff and cornhole tournament at 9 a.m., the turtle races at noon, Turtle Days parade at 6 p.m. and the fireworks show which begins at 10:15 p.m.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided)
The 2011 Whitley County Relay for Life was held for a 24 hour period beginning at 9 a.m. on June 4, 2011. According to Whitley County Relay for Life coordinator Lisa Stoll, participants exceeded the year's fundraising total by $1000 -- bringing in nearly $20,000 in needed funds for the American Cancer Society. Stormy weather late Saturday evening only briefly curtailed activities and participants took shelter inside the Indian Springs Middle School gymnasium for awhile before the poignant luminaria ceremony in which the names of hundreds of brave cancer warriors are read aloud.
Above, from left, Judith Sherman and Tammy Gross pause for a hug on the relay around the track during the annual American Cancer Society's Whitley County Relay for Life fundraising event.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Following three days of intensive history lessons, soldiering and, of course, plenty of fun -- 22 local boys and girls completed the 2011 Civil War Camp at the Whitley County Historical Museum in Columbia City. The camp, made possible with support from the Whitley County Community Foundation and the Old Settlers Day Association, brought in groups of regional experts for a fun, informative session. Above, Dr. Russ Gilliom of Churubusco, who enjoys Civil War re-enacting as a hobby, helped to lead the camp. Some camp participants standing alongside Gilliom included, from left, Colby Oldfather, James Romano and Braden Baker.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided)
On Thursday, Whitley County resident Dick Buchanan and his nephew, Joe Woenker, were invited to attend E*Trade's annual Chicago Board Options Exchange in Chicago for Options Institute. Buchanan said the two were allowed to participate in a mock trading session on the floor of the Exchange. Above, at center, Dick Buchanan hold the trade card showing he made a $1,500 mock profit in the exercise. After the floor trading finished, E*Trade had two experts give their presentations as to how and why someone could and should use options on stock issues.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

A weekend of music and entertainment awaits at the sixth annual Crossroads Music Festival in Columbia City.
The event will begin Saturday, June 18, 2011, at noon, continuing throughout the evening at the Mizpah Shrine Horse Grounds, just north of the city on SR 9.
Entertainment will include popular local group Huckleberry Blue. Additionally, there will be a car and motorcycle show a hog roast dinner and numerous activities.
Admission is $5 per person for adults and children ages 12 and under may attend for free.
Limited, free primitive style overnight camping is available.
Funds raised at the event each year support Shriners Hospital for Children in Chicago as well as AmeriFace, an organization that aids in facial reconstructive surgery for children.
For additional information, contact Joyce Bentz at jbentz6300@msn.com or Debbie Oliver at debbie@ameriface.org.

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From the Kosciusko Lakes & Streams and the Tippecanoe Watershed Foundation

Blue-green algae blooms have been reported in several Kosciusko County lakes over the past month -- and officials hope not to see them in neighboring counties, such as Whitley County. These blooms have been identified as Planktothrix aghardii. While a blue-green algae, this species actually appears red in color. Like other blue-green algae it is capable of producing harmful toxins.
As part of our two-year blue-green algae study we will continue to investigate our lakes and try to develop a better understanding of this algae.
When temperatures climb and the summer sun beats down, conditions are ripe for lakes to produce harmful algae blooms, some of which can be harmful to pets and humans.  Harmful algal blooms (HAB) are blue-green algal blooms containing toxins or other noxious chemicals, which can pose harmful health risks.
Why is this a concern? People or animals may develop skin irritation or upper respiratory problems from exposure to HAB, and in extreme cases, dogs and other animals have even died after drinking lake water containing these toxins.
Severe blue-green algal blooms typically occur on lakes with poor water quality (high in nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen), and look like green paint, pea soup, or a thick green cake. HAB often result in extremely low water clarity (less than 1 foot).  When these conditions are present, people should avoid contact with the water and they should prevent animals from swimming in or drinking the water. Scientists do not yet know what causes some blooms to produce toxins while others do not, so the safest course of action is to avoid contact with all blue-green blooms.
To protect yourself from harmful algae blooms, follow the tips that the Wisconsin DNR has developed:
•Do not swim in water that looks like "pea soup", green or blue paint, or that has a scum layer or puffy blobs floating on the surface
•Do not boat, water ski, etc. over such water (people can be exposed through inhalation)
•Do not let children play with scum layers, even from shore
•Do not let pets or livestock swim in, or drink, waters experiencing blue-green algae blooms
•Do not treat surface waters that are experiencing blue-green algae blooms with any herbicide or algaecide-- toxins are released into the water when blue-green algae cells die
•Always take a shower after coming into contact with any surface water (whether or not a blue-green algae bloom appears to be present; surface waters may contain other species of potentially harmful bacteria and viruses)
How can we prevent future harmful blue-green algae blooms?  The list below, developed by the Wisconsin DNR gives a few ways that you can help keep yourself and others safe by limiting some of the causes of algae growth.
•Maintain native vegetation along shorelines as buffer areas
•Minimize activities that result in erosion
•Reduce the amount of fertilizer used on lawns
•Use only phosphorus-free fertilizer when possible
•Fix leaking septic systems
•Use only phosphorus-free detergents in dishwashing machines

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

In hopes of adding some extra financial support to the Passages Inc. art program, Passages staff and clients will be hosting a garage sale with a purpose next Saturday, June 25, 2011.
The sale, held from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Towerview Industries, will include several pieces of Passages artwork in addition to a yard sale of items donated by Passages' staff members. Items collected for the sale include furniture, clothing, movies and more.
All proceeds raised at the sale will be divided in half, with half going to support the Passages Inc. art program -- a unique initiative that encourages the creative self-expression of those with special needs in our community.
Towerview Industries is located at 335 Towerview Drive, Columbia City.

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From reports

North Ridge Apartments in Columbia City recently became one of ten regional companies to join the Apartment Association of Fort Wayne-NE Indiana.
North Ridge Apartments has become a regular member of the organization and is managed by HI Management.
With more than 20,500 rental units, the association represents apartment owners, managers, maintenance technicians and those who supply goods and services to the multi-family rental industry in Fort Wayne and northeastern Indiana.

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(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, inside the large greenhouse recently constructed by local resident Jay Herron, a variety of recycled materials can be seen put to good use once again, including this walkway made of discarded pier sections. Below, Herron inside his greenhouse. Beneath, a glimpse of several different types of heirloom vegetables growing in Herron's greenhouse. At bottom, Herron's greenhouse foundation is set several feet into the soil to enhance stability and take advantage of the earth's natural insulation -- an import aspect considering Herron now plans to grow fruits and vegetables for sale and for his family's use year round.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Jay Herron has handcrafted a beautiful life for his family using recycled items, ingenuity and his creative spirit on his rural Whitley County homestead.
A carpenter by trade, Herron's creative endeavors are many -- including stained glass and organic growing.
A winter project has had much of Herron's free time in recent weeks as he completed a long-time dream: the construction of a greenhouse attached to his barn -- each element built by hand using recycled resources.
For many years, Herron, his wife, Tiffany, and the couple's four children have been selling the fruits of their acre-sized garden at the Whitley County Farmers Market. Limited by Indiana's summer growing season, his family's need for fresh produce and the garden's size, Herron was eager to find a way to grow more produce, year-round and provide more fresh food for his family. His solution: a greenhouse.
Herron began building the greenhouse last November and completed it in February, just in time to begin planting a large crop of summer produce.
"I worked on it during the winter as much as possible," Herron said, though his handcrafted cabinetry business kept him busy  most of the time.
Made almost entirely of recycled items -- discarded pier sections for flooring, shelving crafted from leftover pieces of wood from cabinetry projects, a frame salvaged from someone else's greenhouse -- the finished greenhouse measures approximately 12x50, extending off the western end of a pole building that also houses Herron's woodworking shop and his wife's yoga studio. In all, he estimates that he spent just $1000 on materials for the greenhouse.
Herron's creativity is apparent throughout the structure as one spots old items with a new use -- recycled pots, popsicle sticks and more. In the potting shed area of the greenhouse, he has created a unique gravity system that lowers small amounts of soil from an overhead bin with the tap of a shovel. He's also working to create a system that will capture rainwater and supply a steady stream of water to the plants inside the greenhouse.
With spring's arrival, Herron began growing a wide variety of plants -- many of which have now reached maturity and he offers them for sale most weeks at the Whitley County Farmers Market. "I'll be at the farmers market a few more weeks with plants," Herron said. After that, he'll have produce for sale there.
Herron is growing a wide variety of plants, including heirloom vegetables, greens and more.
"It's completely organic," Herron said of his growing practices. "It's very important to me that there are no chemicals around here. It can be done without them."
Herron said his use of composting and worm farming, using castings and worm tea, enable him to accomplish what some must rely on chemicals alone to do. "They just feed off of our compost," Herron said of the worms. He keeps a large, ever-changing compost pile going near the garden, fulfilled with the compost from his household and that which others contribute.
Herron is proud to share his greenhouse and invites interested residents to stop by when the sign says "open" or by appointment. The greenhouse is located at 1746 South 350 West in rural central Whitley County.
For more information on Jay Herron's Greenhouse, call 213-1951.

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(Talk of the Town photos by Anthony Romano)
Turtle Days kicked off Wednesday evening in Turtle Town Park in Churubusco, welcoming residents with the sights and sounds of the annual festival.
Above, Whitley County Shrine Club members, from left, Jerry Freewalt and Bud Rothgeb prepare the club's famous elephant ears Wednesday night. At right, business was brisk as residents couldn't wait for their first opportunity of the summer festival season to enjoy the crispy, chewy, sugary sweetness of an elephant ear. The Shriners will continue to fry up the festivalgoer's favorites through Saturday at their booth. The Turtle Days festival continues through Saturday evening when it will be capped off with a fireworks display.

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(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Landmark South Whitley eatery The Brownstone on State will launch the South Whitley Farmers Market's first summer season this Friday night, with weekly market activity continuing through October.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

A quiet summertime dinner on the patio and shopping for fresh produce and baked goods on a Friday night -- something to look forward to each week in South Whitley.
Beginning this Friday, June 17, from 4 to 8 a.m., the new South Whitley Farmers Market will be open each Fridy night until October at The Brownstone on State.
Visitors will find a steady selection of produce and baked goods by local residents at booths along the gravel area near the new outdoor dining patio at The Brownstone. The market is being coordinated by The Brownstone's owners, Mike and Kim Balser, with the involvement of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce.
As part of the weekly market, The Brownstone will offer dining specials and entertainment.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Shade Jonze, better known by many as Henry Philips of South Whitley, above, performs at the Whitley County Farmers Market. The market is open every Saturday, now through October, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn. Due to the Old Settlers Days midway and activity downtown, however, the market will move to the Whitley County 4-H Fairgrounds as part of the Indiana Highland Games on Saturday, June 25, 2011. Several Farmers Market participants will feature special edition items at their booths with a Scottish or Celtic flair in honor of the event. There is no admission to attend the Indiana Highland Games thanks to a grant from the Whitley County Community Foundation.

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The Whitley County Amateur Radio Club invites the community to visit its annual Field Day operations that will be held Saturday June 25, 2011, beginning at 1 p.m. through Sunday, June 26, at 1 p.m. This year’s event will be located at Cops Gear located at 3065 W. US Highway 30, just west of Columbia City.
Amateur Radio (or “ham radio”) operators throughout the Americas will put their emergency communication and technical expertise to the test during a nation-wide Field Day. The annual exercise is one facet of activities amateur radio operators undergo to ensure they will be ready to volunteer their assistance with communications during disasters and emergencies. field day is sponsored by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) — the national association for amateur radio.
Field day was designed to test operators’ abilities to set up and operate portable stations under emergency conditions such as the loss of electricity. Not only is this event a serious test of skill, for many clubs and groups it’s a social occasion too. During the weekend, participants try to contact as many other participating field day stations as possible.
Approximately 35,000 Amateur Radio operators participated in last year’s field day. The first field day was held in 1933.
During emergencies and disasters such as tornados, earthquakes and fires, ham radio operators regularly volunteer to support governmental and non-governmental organizations such as the American Red Cross and The Salvation Army, with communications assistance and other help. But the need for their services doesn’t stop there.
In September 2003, ARRL was awarded a second year of federal funding for emergency communications training, emphasizing support for ham radio’s role in homeland defense and its vital contributions to localities.
This is not the first year the  WCARC has participated in the ARRL sponsored field day event. Field day is a nationwide event to test emergency communications preparedness among amateur radio operators. Amateur operators set up their emergency stations using generator, solar or battery power to operate. Operators then proceed to contact as many other amateur operators around the country over the 24-hour period.

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From BuscoVoice.com

Minutes ago, the 62nd annual Turtle Days festival began and once again Churubusco will make it’s mark in history as the oldest continuously running festival of Indiana. The festival began tonight and ends this Saturday, June 18, 2011, with the now famous fireworks display at the Churubusco park.
Below are a list of the events and happenings this year. You can also visit the Turtle Days website for more information and updates as the date draws near!

Wednesday, June 15
5:00 p.m.
Food, crafts, merchant tent, rides, games

6:00 p.m.
Opening ceremony
Royalty Introduction

8:00 p.m.
Door prize drawing – entertainment stage

8:15 p.m.
Adult karaoke competition – entertainment stage

10:00 p.m.
Raffle drawing (must be present)

Thursday, June 16
5:00-10:00 p.m.
Food, crafts, merchant tent, rides, games

6:00 p.m.
Hit The Floor Dance Studio exhibition – entertainment stage

7:00 p.m.
New Life Christian Band – entertainment stage

8:00 p.m.
Door prize drawing – entertainment stage

10:00 p.m.
Raffle drawing (must be present)

Friday, June 17
2:30 p.m.
3 on 3 Basketball tournament

4:00 p.m.
Churubusco fire department fish & tenderloin dinner

5:00 p.m.
Food, crafts, merchant tent, rides, games

6:00 p.m.
Dance exhibition – entertainment stage
Beer Tent

7:00 p.m.
Captain JAC – entertainment stage

8:00 p.m.
Door prize drawing – entertainment stage

9:00 p.m.
BD&P on stage at Beer Tent

10:00 p.m.
Raffle drawing (must be present)

Saturday, June 18
7:00 a.m.
Walk/Run road race:
Ground Hog Breakfast until 11:00 a.m.

8:30 a.m.
Tractor Pull

9:00 a.m.
BBQ Cook off
Kids Day
Cornhole Tournament
Poker run

11:00 a.m.
Turtle Races registration
Food, crafts, merchant tent, rides, games
Chicken BBQ – American Legion #157
Trap shoot
8-ball pool tournament

12:00 Noon
Turtle Races
Model airplane demonstration

1:00 p.m.
Center stage dance studio – entertainment stage

3:00 p.m.
New life christian band – entertainment stage

4:00 p.m.
Poker run – Last in at Area 33 Club

6:00 p.m.
Parade

7:00 p.m.
18+ Bingo after parade until 10:00 p.m.
Allan & Ashcraft – entertainment stage

8:00 p.m.
Beer Tent

9:00 p.m.
Sugar Shot – Beer tent PNC Parking lot

10:00 p.m.
Grand prize drawing (need NOT be present)

10:15 p.m.
Firework show

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Editor's Note: Thank you for your patience in viewing these photographs from the 2011 Columbia City High School graduation ceremony. Talk of the Town is in the midst of some exciting technological upgrades this week, necessitating a little extra time and energy behind the scenes.

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

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

The Whitley County BABE program is gearing up for their fourth annual Baby Photo Contest, held each year during the Whitley County 4-H Fair.
"We are looking for the cutest baby or toddler in Whitley County," said BABE director Shawn Ellis this week as she launched the contest.
Parents are asked to submit a 4x6 photo of their child, newborn to age 5. Additionally, there is a new category this year specifically for first birthday photos.
Photo entries can be mailed to BABE at 301 North Main Street, Columbia City, IN 46725. Entries can also be dropped off at the BABE office during business hours on Wednesday from 2 to 6 p.m. or Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Additionally, entries can be dropped off in South Whitley in the BABE office in the basement of Star Financial Bank from 2 to 4 p.m. on Mondays or at the BABE office inside Farmers & Merchants Bank in Churubusco on Mondays from 2 to 4 p.m.
All photos will go on display during the Whitley County 4-H Fair in July and the community can vote on their favorite photo, a penny per vote. All funds raised from the penny votes will support Whitley County BABE.
Whitley County BABE provides quality incentives to parents who participate in preventive and prenatal care, including parenting, educational and nutritional classes to promote healthy pregnancy, birth outcome and early childhood development.
For more information, contact the BABE office at 244-2820 or send an email to bedsandbritchesetc@embarqmail.com.

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Mark your calendars for August 2-4, 2011, if you have a 9 to 13 year-old boy or girl at your house who loves the great outdoors. You may want to consider including the three day Northeast Indiana Conservation Camp in your summer plans.
The featured activity leader for this year’s camp will be Erik Vosteen, specializes in ancient eastern woodland Native American practices and life skills. Vosteen will be leading workshops with the Conservation Campers on flint knapping, atlatl spear throwing, and ancient fire technologies.
Other Conservation Camp events planned this year include storytelling, archery, boating, canoeing and gun safety, group sports and games, swimming and an exciting session of “CSI-Camp Whitley." As campers learn about vital natural resources including watershed facts and soil conservation, they have opportunities to earn  water bucks which they can spend at a prize auction on the last day of Conservation Camp.
The Northeast Indiana Conservation Camp will be held at Camp Whitley again this year.  It is located northeast of Columbia City in Whitley County on Troy-Cedar Lake.  The camp is made available through endeavors of Soil and Water Conservation Districts and Wildlife Conservation Clubs in Indiana.
The cost to participate in the three day, two night camp is $100 per camper.  
Many participating Soil and Water Conservation Districts, lake associations and conservation clubs pay partial or even full tuition for campers from their respective counties or regional areas.  As an example, Whitley County Soil and Water Conservation District will pay $50 for a first time camper who lives in Whitley County.
The deadline to register for participation in this year’s Conservation Camp is July 15.  
For more information about camp, contact Nadean Lamle at the Whitley County   Soil and Water Conservation District office, phone number 244-6266 ext. 3 or email her at nadean.eldien@in.nacdnet.net.    

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Caps fly through the air as Columbia City High School's Class of 2011 celebrate their graduation tonight inside the Donald S. Weeks Gymnasium at CCHS, above. Additional photos of graduation will appear soon on Talk of the Town.

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(Talk of the Town photo by TRSmith of the Tribune-News) The top 10 academically ranked students in the Whitko High School Class of 2011 are, from left above, Gayle Peters, first; Thomas Danner, second; Kate Hippensteel, third; David Johnson, fourth; Ashley Rudd, fifth, not pictured; Alex Winger, sixth; Wade Eberly, seventh; Christena Hoopingarner, eighth; Isis Gaff, ninth; and Tyler Wine, tenth, not pictured.

By TRSmith of the Tribune-News

The Whitko High School class of 2011 earned more than $500,000 in scholarships according to guidance counselor Rachael LePaige.
Scholarship announcements and other awards were presented Thursday, June 2 in the auditorium.
Individuals from various organizations presented the students with their scholarship grants and WHS staff gave their awards.
Jazmen Utter was acknowledged for four years of perfect attendance. Wade Eberly, Kate Hippensteel and Travis Weigold each had three years of perfect attendance followed by Taran Busenbark with two years.
For the 2010-11 school year Donovan Klein, Nicole Slaymaker, Sage Sroufe and Alex Winger had perfect attendance.
Principal’s Awards were given to Gayle Peters, valedictorian, and Thomas Danner, salutatorian.

Athletic Awards

Mick Bishop Award – Scott Skiles
Ted Eugene Long Award – Rachelle Kessie
Ed Pequignot Award – Scott Skiles
HANDS recognition – David Johnson

Classroom Awards

Ag Business Management National Silver Aemblem Winner – Gayle Peters
AP Calculus – Thomas Danner
Four Year Excellence in Math – Thomas Danner and David Johnson
Outstanding Culinarian – Celine Jenkins
Family & Consumer Science Achievement Award – Jenna Kahn
Food Science II – the late Kurt Rigsby
Indoor Team Sports – Josh Smith
Meat Science & Technology National Qualifier – Gayle Peters
AP Literature and Composition – Kate Hippensteel and James Wozniak
Government – Kate Hippensteel
Principles of Engineering Design – Wade Eberly
Academic Team – Ari Crawford (Science), Thomas Dannier (Math, Social Studies & Interdisciplianary), Wade Eberly (Math, Science, Interdisciplinary), Zach Jones (Science) and Jamee Wozniak (English, Interdisciplinary)
Art competition recogniton was given to:
Huntington University High School show – Christena Hoopingarner - third
Regional Scholastic Arts – Wade Eberly, Gold Key / Silver Key
Regional Scholastic Arts – Ashley Rudd, Gold Key / Honorable Mention
Regional Scholalstic Arts – Haylea Wolf, Silver Key
Regional Scholastic Arts – Camille Krouse, Honorable Mention
National Silver Medal – Wade Eberly
St Francis portfolio competition scholarship – Camille Krouse
Indiana Electric Stte Art Calendar winners – Kate Hippensteel, Honorable Mention; Finalists, Alex Winger and Ashley Rudd
Art Gallery – Ashley Rudd, Wade Eberly Christena Hoopingarner, Camille Krouse, Alex Winger
Scholastic Art and Writing Award – Jamee Wozniak

Scholarships

HANDS Scholarship – Shandi Oswald
American Legion Riders Scholarship in memory of Justin Hostetler – Whitley Menzie, Shandi Oswald and Trent Walther
Daniele E Bolinger Memorial Scholarship – Brent Busz
Brandenburg Scholarship – Thomas Danner
Selma McKreill Brown Scholarship – Stephanie Camden, Brian Menzie and Rylie Snep
Delta Theta Tau Sorority (South Whitley Chapter) Scholarship – Dylan Zinsmeister
Sidney/Jackson Twp Fire Department Scholarship – Rylie Snep
South Whitley-Cleveland Township Fire Department Scholarship – Mitch Yeager
National Dollars for Scholars Award – Lindsey Hardesty and Christena Hoopingarner
Farm Aid Scholarship – Gayle Peters
Kosciusko County Community Foundation Presentations
Everett & Fern Besson Memorial Scholarship – Stephanie Camden
Lilly Scholarship – Gayle Peters
Camelot Scholarship – Wade Eberly and Travis Weigold
McDonald Memorial Scholarship – Scott Skiles
June Reed Memorial Nursing Scholarship – Stephanie Camden
Gill Family Charitable Endowment Scholarship – Stephanie Camden
The Gasaway Education Fund – Danielle Rose
Gill Family Charitable Endowment Scholarship – Danielle Rose
The K21 Health Foundation Medical Scholarship – Danielle Rose
Ruh Ladd Medical Scholarship – Danielle Rose
Outstanding Culinarian – Celine Jenkins
Walter & Ella Shoop Scholarship – Lindsey Hardesty, Stephanie Camden, Anne Kessie and Ashley Rudd
Jonathan Simmons Scholarship – Dylan Zinsmeister
South Whitley Community Facilities – Rachelle Kessie and Shandi Oswald
South Whitley Lions Scholarship – Ayrianne Crawford, Wade Eberly
Student Round Table Scholarship – Alex Winger
Ernie Lee Wallen Scholarship – Thomas Danner and Isis Gaff
Luann Warner Memorial Scholarship – Gayle Peters
Whitley County Art Guild Anne Hamilton Scholarship – Camille Krouse
Whitley County Extension Homemakers Facs Achievement Award – Jenna Kahn
Charles Wolf Scholarship – Stephanie Camden and Brian Menzie

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) A newly constructed sun deck, above, covers the area that used to be the kiddie pool at Burnworth Memorial Pool, making use of a space that would be otherwise unusable until the future of that part of the pool can be determined definitively. The entire pool is expected to open within the next few days -- a few weeks behind schedule -- due to mechanical issues with the pool.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

As temperatures continue to hover in the range of... unbearable... local residents are clamoring to cool off in the Burnworth Memorial Pool.
But, as luck would have it, just as the heat index began to climb, a major mechanical issue resulted in the pool remaining closed several weeks.
According to Mark Green, director of the Columbia City Parks Department, the pool opened as planned Memorial Day weekend, however, one day into the season, the pool's pump malfunctioned and the pool was closed.
"Basically, our pump went out," Green said. "We were open one day and later that night, the pump went out."
The pool's pump circulates water, ensuring that chemical levels remain balanced and water is clean and safe for residents to enjoy. Without a functioning pump, the pool cannot be used by the public.
"We couldn't take the pump anywhere until Tuesday (after the holiday weekend)," Green said, "and we found out it was unrepairable. We were better off getting a new pump."
The problems didn't end there, however.
"We got the new pump, installed it and it stopped working after five hours," Green said. "So, this week we too our new pump to get it fixed."
"I should have it back tomorrow," Green said this Wednesday. "The next step is to get the chemicals balanced. It could take a couple of days. Our hope is to have it open this weekend."
Green is optimistic the public may again be able to enjoy the community pool by the weekend, but given the uncertainty with the pool to this point -- no one really knows for sure!
"We just don't know," he said. "We're playing it by ear. People are wondering what's going on and we want to have (this information) out there so people know what's going on."
Burnworth Memorial Pool will be open weekly Monday through Sunday from 12 to 6 p.m.
Summer swim team begins June 12 with practices from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Contact the pool for additional information about swim team.
Swim lessons will also be offered at the pool this year, in three sessions, including:
June 20-July 1
July 11-22
July 25-August 5
Pool parties can be schedules at the pool any day of the week, Monday through Sunday, after 6 p.m.
The pool closes for the season on August 13, 2011.
For additional information about the pool, visit the Burnworth Memorial Pool page by clicking here.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) A familiar face in accounting at Morsches Builders Mart, Rose Hunter, above, will retire next Friday with more than 50 years of service -- and having worked for three generations of the Morsches family.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

She's been an integral member of the staff at Morsches Builders Mart for decades, performing a variety of accounting duties over the better part of the past 40 years.
Next Friday, June 17, 2011, though, Rose Hunter will say goodbye to the hustle and bustle of the building supply industry and looks forward to doing just what she wants to do, when she wants to do it.
Though Hunter will officially celebrate 40 years of service with Morsches Builders Mart, she says she's actually worked there closer to 44 years...taking a few years off here and there to raise her three children, Craig Studebaker, Kurt Studebaker and Cami Walters. Hunter and her husband, Bob, are the proud grandparents of nine and it is those precious grandchildren she most looks forward to spending retirement years with.
"I'm looking forward to spending the summer with my grandkids," she said. Afterall, she feels she hasn't spend as much time with them as she'd like to and now, she can be there with them frequently. She's looking forward to more gigs with the Red Hat Strutters, with whom she line dances, and...enjoying free time.
"I'll be doing whatever I want to do, not just what I have to do," she said, a wide smile spreading across her face.
"I began here as the accounts receivable clerk," Hunter said, adding that over the years, her duties have included payroll, special order processing, inventory control, invoice processing, answering phones and other customer service duties as needed. "I've done a lot in that span of time," she added.
Hunter said she's enjoyed her years with Morsches Builders Mart and what stands out most is the people: people she's worked with and the people who walk through the doors each day.
"I've always enjoyed that it is retail sales," she said. "It's something different every day. You just never know what you're going to see or hear in retail," she said with a laugh.
There have been many standout days over the years and she says she's certain next Friday will be one such day when she leaves her desk for the final time.
A lifelong Whitley County resident, Hunter's years of service have spanned three generations of the Morsches family.
"Working for the Morsches family has been wonderful," said Hunter. "They are very generous people."
Though she won't have to arrive at her desk daily, she doesn't plan to stay away from Morsches Builders Mart very long -- after all, she does have a few home improvement plans on her post-retirement agenda.
"I have some home projects to do, so there's stuff I'll be needing in here," she said. "And I plan to stop in just to harass them if nothing else!"

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Local Y plans Chicago Cubs bus trip to build family memories

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This year, the Whitley County Family YMCA will celebrate the 101st anniversary of Father’s Day. First celebrated in June 1910 at the Spokane YMCA in Washington, Father’s Day is now recognized all over the world.
“The Whitley County Y is proud to join in this historic celebration honoring fathers,” said Erica Miller, executive director of the Whitley County Family YMCA. “Dads, and moms, play a paramount role in children’s lives and the Y is committed to helping foster those relationships.”
Father’s Day was founded by Sonora Louis Smart Dodd, the daughter of a single father who served in the Civil War. On Mother’s Day in 1909, Smart Dodd heard a sermon honoring mothers and wondered why there was no similar tribute for fathers. With the support of ministers in Spokane, Smart Dodd launched the first Father's Day celebration at the Spokane YMCA on June 19, 1910. President Nixon signed Father’s Day into law in 1972.
Today, the Y remains committed to strengthening families.  The Y offers programs that foster understanding and companionship between children and their dads – and moms – such as family Express, family open climbing wall, family open swim, parent/child swim lessons, and parents can volunteer for their child’s sports team.
In honor of Father’s Day and families, the Whitley County Family YMCA has organized a special baseball outing on Thursday, June 30, 2011.  
Open to Y members and non-members, this unique trip to see the Chicago Cubs take on the 2010 World Series Champs, the San Francisco Giants, is sure to make great family memories.  The cost for Y members is $70; non-members is $90 and includes charter bus transportation to and from Wrigley Field, your ticket to the game and lunch on the bus.  Please bring money for a supper stop on the way home.  Families of all ages are encouraged to come; kids under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.  
For more information or to register, please call the Y at 244-9622.

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(Talk of the Town mobile photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Three Birds Casual, an international teak furniture company headquartered in Whitley County, is clearing out a large quantity of scratch and dent or outdated merchandise this week as they prepare to move to their new location on East Cardinal Drive on the east side of Columbia City. Offering discounts of more than 75% off retail prices, the company is liquidating teak patio furniture, dining tables, chairs and more. The sale continues Thursday, June 9, to Friday, June 10, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily at the southeast corner of Chauncey and Jackson Streets in downtown Columbia City. Above, a large variety of furniture sits outside Wednesday morning for potential buyers to view. At right, additional pieces, including cushions, can be found inside the warehouse. The business, which outfits celebrity homes, major resorts and other high-profile vacation areas around the world, is jointly owned by Columbia City residents Tad and Kim Varga as well as Victor Lewis.

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(Talk of the Town photos by Gloria Reimers) Little Turtle Elementary students in Mrs. Myer's class, above, and in Mrs. Johnson's class, below, learned how to make soy ice recently, part of a learning program on the benefits of soybean crops.

By Gloria Reimers

The United States is falling dangerously behind other nations in developing its future workforce of scientist, engineers and technology experts.  
America now faces a future of intense global competition with a startling shortage of scientist.  The 2nd graders at Little Turtle Elementary School were up to the Soy Sensation Science Experiment challenge.  
Purdue Extension-Whitley Office presented a Soy Sensation Science Experiment to Mrs. Myers’, Mrs. Johnson’s, Mrs. Owen’s and Mrs. Short’s classrooms at Little Turtle Elementary School for a total of 86 students. This experiment met some of the Indiana’s Science Standards curriculum per grade level.
The Purdue Science Experiment showed how to make soy ice out of soy milk by using the milk from soybeans.  The children used vanilla and chocolate soy milk to make their soy ice.  The children put in a great deal of effort by shaking their ingredients in their bag of ice for about 10 to 15 minutes.  The children realized making soy ice used more energy than going to the grocery store to buy ice cream.  Once, their soy ice was frozen they enjoyed sampling the different flavors from their experiment.  The soy ice tasted good and was also, rich in protein with amino acids, lecithin, vitamin E, minerals and fiber.  The children were able to have fun while learning.
With the Purdue Science experiment the children were introduced to the benefits of soy products.  They were able to view soybeans that are grown in fields locally by Whitley County farmers.  Soybeans are often called the miracle crop.  It is the world’s foremost provider of protein and oil.  A few samples of edible soybeans uses are baby food, breakfast cereals, cookies, cooking oil and salad dressing.  Another favorite ingredient would be lecithin that is extracted from soybean oil to keep chocolate and cocoa butter from separating.  Some nonfood products created with soybeans include crayons, candles, plastics and biodiesel fuel.  A picture of Henry Ford’s plastic-bodied soybean car was viewed by the children.
The H.A.N.D.S. Foundation, a part of the Whitley County Community Foundation, will be funding the Purdue Soy Experiment.  If you have a group of children that are up for the challenge of making soy ice while learning and having fun please contact the Purdue Extension-Whitley County Office at 244-7615 or send an email to gjreimer@purdue.edu.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided) Phil Depriest, below, will serve as soccer coach for Tri Lakes Baptist Church's High Power Soccer Camp.

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(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, WWII veterans and their family members and friends fill a tent and chairs on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn Saturday morning -- all present to attend the Whitley County Historical Society's D-Day Commemoration.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

An estimated 80 of Whitley County's 110 WWII veterans attended an event held in their honor Saturday morning on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn.
Whether born and raised in Whitley County or having moved here during their lifetime, the veterans were thanked and individually honored for their bravery and service to the United States on the anniversary of the D-Day invasion of Normandy.
Shaded by a tent and the branches of greenery on trees above, a gentle breeze wafted through the event keeping the veterans, most in their 80s and 90s, comfortable for the hour and a half long ceremony.
Each veteran's name was read aloud and local Boy Scouts in Troop 94 presented the men with medals of honor, bringing smiles and a few tears along the way.
A large contingent of Legion Riders, carrying flags and raising their hands in salute, added to the formality of the morning's events. The Columbia City High School band performed the songs of each military branch.
The event, the first of it's kind locally to honor the few remaining WWII veterans, was organized by local veteran and Whitley County Historical Society board member Scott Allison and Whitley County Historian Jeanette Brown. The pair sought the community's help in identifying and locating veterans so that each man or woman could be invited to attend and that transportation could be provided if necessary -- a labor of love lasting more than six months.
Individuals who participated in the program for the morning included Scott Allison, Captain Kent Lundy, Josh Perry, MSgt Ron Darr, TSgt Scott Krieg, Thomas Douglas, Carson Miller, Jared Gore, Alan Murphy, Dennis Warnick, the Whitley County Historical Society, Legion Riders, Columbai City High School Marching Band and Boy Scout Troop 94.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
On Saturday, in observance of today's 67th anniversary of the D-Day, a large group of Whitley County's estimated 110 World War II veterans attended an event held in their honor on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn. Above, following the recognition ceremony in which each veteran present was named aloud, thanked and presented with an honor medal, many of the veterans convened for a group photo on the steps of the Whitley County Courthouse to commemorate the day's events, above. Additional photos and coverage of the ceremony will appear tomorrow on Talk of the Town.

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(Talk of the Town file photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Always a highlight of the Turtle Days festivities in Churubusco, many attend the midway in the park each year, above. Below, a handful of tickets equates to a whole lot of fun for young ones.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

The 62nd annual Churubusco Turtle Days Festival, slated for June 15-18, 2011, in Churubusco's Turtle Town Park.  
The four day, fun-filled festival is filled with contests, vendors, concessions, music, games, rides, fireworks and many activities for the whole family. The festival began in 1949, part of the excitement surrounding the "Oscar" giant turtle sightings in a local pond.
For full details on the many events planned for this year's Turtle Days Festival, visit the website at www.turtledays.com
This year's sponsors include: Dave Bonar, American Legion Post 157, Darrin Geiger, Henry Electric, Stan & Joan Gray, BRC Rubber and Plastics, Quest/CenturyLink,  C & A Tool and Engineering, Sugar Grove Church of God, Churubusco United Methodist Church, New Life Christian Band & Maritza, Chain o' Lakes Festival, Area 33, Pit Stop Pub, PNC Bank, Spiece, J & K Communications, Eel River Golf Course, Churubusco News and Printing, Precision Sharpening, Erratic Graphix, Mad Ant's, Terry Miller Memorials and Mark Pepple.

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Parkview Health has been recognized by Thomson Reuters as being one of the 57 best-performing health systems in the country.
Thomson Reuters analyzed the performance of 285 health systems comprising 1,944 hospitals and identified the top health systems based on quality of care, efficiency and patient satisfaction. The annual study is featured in this week’s Modern Healthcare magazine.
Performance measures in the study include:
• Mortality index
• Complications index
• Patient safety index
• Core measures
• 30-day mortality rate
• 30-day readmission rate
• Average length of stay
With an emphasis on innovation, Parkview has developed multiple programs aimed at enhancing quality of care, efficiency and patient satisfaction. Below are two examples of Parkview clinical programs that are improving patient care and outcomes:

Sepsis protocol

Sepsis is caused by a bacterial infection that can begin anywhere in the body and lead to serious health complications. Working together with physicians and nurses, Parkview has implemented a sepsis protocol that provides for early detection of sepsis and therapies through a standardized approach to reduce mortality and reduce the number of patients who develop a severe sepsis condition.

Congestive Heart Treatment Center collaborative care model

Parkview Heart Institute patients with congestive heart failure are experiencing a better overall quality of life, which is the result of a collaborative care model that was put into action nearly a year ago when the Congestive Heart Treatment Center was established. The collaborative care model is unique in that it takes a patient’s health and home environment into consideration. Education about congestive heart failure and accompanying diseases is provided to the patient and their family. Collaboration is the key between clinicians and between clinicians and patients and their family, and several departments are involved in the collaborative care model.
“We are pleased to be recognized as one of the top health systems in the country,” said Mike Packnett, president and CEO, Parkview Health. “Patients and families are receiving the best possible patient-centered care from our physicians, nurses and staff. This is a great achievement for Parkview and it sends a positive message to the communities we serve.”

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(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Named Motor Trend's 2011 Car of the Year, the super efficient, electric powered Chevy Volt is now available to see and buy in Columbia City at City Chevrolet -- the only dealership to have one in this part of Indiana.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

As the gas prices continue their perpetual swing -- primarily in an upward direction -- Whitley County residents are getting creative in their efforts to keep budgets in order.
Some have orchestrated car pools, others have cut back on driving to reduce their gas expenses. Still others have found or are looking for more efficient vehicles to drive. If this trend continues, and likely it will, finding a more efficient way to travel will be imperative.
City Chevrolet, located near US 30 just east of Columbia City, may have the answer.
In April, City Chevrolet became the only dealership in this area of the state to have the highly-anticipated Chevy Volt in stock and on the showroom floor. Selected as the 2011 Motor Trend Car of the Year, the Chevy Volt is a hybrid, plug-in vehicle that runs primarily on electricity -- with a fuel back up in a pinch. To date, this is described as the most fuel efficient, domestically produced, technologically advanced vehicle.
In a nutshell, you drive this car during the day, plug it into the wall in your garage at night and enjoy the savings of avoiding regular visits to the gas station.
"It's the only one in this area," said dealership general manager Jim Scarbeary of the shiny, metallic red and chrome Chevy Volt gleaming on his showroom floor. "Everyone else is scheduled to get one by the fourth quarter."
Scarbeary said the local dealership was excited to get the car in stock early for local residents to see in person, despite the fact that it cannot actually be sold until after July 1, 2011, by federal mandate.
"We've had a lot of people out (to see the car)," Scarbeary said. "It puts us on their shopping list. That's why we got it here a little before everyone else."
Scarbeary is optimistic that a local resident, in search of a more economical way to drive, will end up buying the car.
The price range for the Chevy Volt is $40,000 to $44,000, but there is a federal tax incentive to buy it worth $7500.
"If you take in to account frequent gas purchases, it would pay for itself pretty quickly," added Scarbeary. "It makes it a pretty reasonable deal if you look at it that way." The estimated electricity cost to keep the Chevy Volt fully charged is about $1.50 per day and the car can be fully charged from an empty battery in 10 hours -- and can be charged during off-peak energy consumption hours. In addition to the battery, the vehicle's regenerative braking system also converts would-be lost energy into additional battery charge to keep the car going. If you go beyond the estimated 40-mile-in-the-city charge range and don't have time to recharge, the vehicle will tap into it's fuel reserves and run on gas.
Scarbeary is among the few people anywhere who've taken the Chevy Volt out of the showroom and tried it on the roadway.
"It's not like you'd think," he said, noting how quiet the car is. In fact, according to the Chevy Volt's website, the car can reach speeds of up to 100 mph while remaining relatively silent.
The Chevy Volt's size surprises a lot of customers who've expected the car to be much smaller than it turns out to be in person. The vehicle comfortably seats four with ample trunk space. It is similar in size to many mid-sized four-door cars, a bit of a pleasant shock to many who had been watching the prototypes and online buzz about the vehicle for months -- expecting a small, compact car.
"It's really futuristic," said Scarbeary of the many high-tech features inside the car, including a push button start and touch screen controls. "It's really cool. I wish we had more of them right now."
He added that he expects the dealership to receive a few more of the hot vehicle in a few months. For now, though, car buyers will have to whet their appetite for an efficient, electric vehicle by visiting the showroom at City Chevrolet and seeing what they have to offer. Another appealing, efficient vehicle is the Chevy Cruze which  boasts gas mileage of up to 34 mpg -- possibly even better if you choose to go with the ECOTEC 1.4L turbocharged engine.
Although efficiency may not be the appeal, the dealership also has a few other lesser found vehicles in stock right now as well that are pretty exciting to check out -- including a 2011 Camaro Super Sport Special Edition and 2011 Chevy Corvette ZR1 3ZR.

City Chevrolet is located at 3040 East Business 30, Columbia City. Visit www.gocitychevy.com

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(Talk of the Town file photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) A commitment to community beautification through urban forestry efforts has resulted in Columbia City once again being named a "Tree City USA" by the Arbor Day Foundation. Above, a beautiful stand of trees in Greenhill Cemetery, Columbia City. Below, Columbia City Tree Board president Eddie Beagles.

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Columbia City has been recognized by the non-profit Arbor Day Foundation as a Tree City USA community for its commitment to urban forestry, according to Tree Board president Eddie Beagles.
Columbia City has earned this national recognition for 17 years.
Columbia City also received a Tree City USA Growth Award for demonstrating progress in its community forestry program.  The prestigious Growth Award honors environmental improvement and higher levels of tree care in Tree City USA communities.
The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service.
Columbia City has met the four standards to become a Tree City USA community. Tree City USA communities must have a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program with annual expenditures of at least $2 per capita and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.
“Communities that are honored with a Tree City USA designation and a Growth Award make a strong commitment to planting and caring for trees, and we applaud their efforts,” said John Rosenow, chief executive and founder of the Arbor Day Foundation.  “We also commend a community’s elected officials, volunteers and its citizens for providing needed care for trees.  They recognize that trees provide numerous environmental, economical and health benefits for the community every day.”
More information about Tree City USA can be found at www.arborday.org/TreeCityUSA.

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Eagle Glen Monday Night Ladies League will be hosting their fourth annual Memorial Golf Scramble, on Saturday, July 9, 2011.  Registration starts at 11:30 a.m. with shotgun start at 1 p.m.  Registration is $55 per person or $200 per team, which includes green fees, cart and lunch.  Additionally, packaged scoring aids, which include four mulligans and string, are available for $25 each.
Players are invited to arrive early to use the putting green and driving range compliments of Eagle Glen Golf Course.   Golfers are also asked to wear pink in memory of Sally Jo Cooper, Karen Behm and Betty Barrett.
Proceeds from the outing benefit the Whitley County Community Foundation's Women's Giving Circle which provides mammograms to women in need or whose insurance will not cover them.
Last year's event raised $3900. In hopes of raising more funds this year, the event is being moved from a Sunday to a Saturday afternoon.
To register, send individual or team information to Linda Hyndman, 4065 W. 400 N., Columbia City, IN 46725, by July 1.   Please make checks payable to Whitley County Community Foundation/Giving Circle. 
For more information call Eagle Glen Golf Course at 248-4653.     

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From reports

A pancake and sausage breakfast fundraiser will be held this Saturday, June 4, 2011, from 8 to 11 a.m. at Sugar Creek Fellowship Church of the Nazarene, 3531 West 800 South, in rural Whitley County's village of Tunker.
Donations collected at the breakfast will offset costs associated with sending children to Shiloh Park Church Camp in Marion, Indiana. Additionally, a portion of the funds raised will support the church's Angel Ministry which aids families in need throughout the year.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided)
Sponsors of Camp Whitley Pizza Night met at Pizza Hut today to kick off the preparations for this year’s upcoming camping season. This marks the fifteenth year that sponsors will be delivering hot pizzas to Camp Whitley on Tuesday evenings.  Pizza Night has become a popular tradition for the hungry campers and staff at Camp Whitley.  Many of the sponsors have been on board since the program began in 1997. Thanks go out to The Rotary Club, Tri Kappa, J&K Communications, The Elks Club, The Optimists Club, Orizon Real Estate, Embarq, J&J Insurance Solutions, The Merritt Norris Insurance Agency and STAR Insurance for their continued support in sending pizzas to campers.  
Above, from left, is Judy Mundy, Trent Kumfer, Travis Babler, Rob Brumbaugh, Michelle Slavicek and Chris Coonrod.  
The six week camping season begins on June 19, 2011, and runs through July 30.

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(Talk of the Town file photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Participants in the 2010 Whitley County Historical Museum's Civil War Camp learn some mid-1800s music and dance moves on the lawn of the museum. Below, campers review some historical information about the Civil War learned during the three-day camp.

By Angela Maley Craig

The Whitley County Historical Museum is holding their annual Civil War Camp beginning June 14-16, 2011, at the Whitley County Historical Museum, 108 W. Jefferson Street in Columbia City.
The Civil War Camp is a three-day adventure of learning and fun for boys and girls ages 10 to 13.  Participants explore the lives of Civil War soldiers and civilians with marching, drilling, re-enactor guest appearances, games, crafts and other fun activities. You can register your child by calling the Museum at 244-6372. Registration is filling fast. Registration is $15 per child.
The Whitley County Historical Museum, housed in the home of Thomas Riley Marshall, is dedicated to preserving the history of Whitley County.  This is achieved through educational programs, artifact preservation and collection, exhibits, publications, and collaboration with related groups.  The museum is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.  Admission is free.

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(Talk of the Town mobile photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Students in Melanie Bechtold's freshman Honors English class, above, briskly work to put the finishing touches on their business plan presentations this afternoon at Columbia City High School. The teens presented their highly creative business plan ideas to a panel of local business owners and community members. The adult panelists were incredibly impressed with the students' work and professionalism.

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Parkview Whitley Hospital’s long-term care facilities, Parkview Oaks and Parkview Pointe, will present its first annual free Family Fun Cruise-In on Saturday, June 11, 2011, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will be held at The Oaks, 411 N. Wolf Road, in Columbia City.
Entertainment and activities will include: antique cars, 1950s music provided by a DJ, clowns, food and beverages, pony rides, dunk tank, bounce house, craft sale, face painting and a cornhole contest.
For additional information, call 248-9843.

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(Talk of the Town file photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, a popular point during Old Settler's week is the midway downtown. This year, in addition to the midway, local families will have an opportunity to enjoy so much more -- with several new events added to the festival this year. Below, from left, volunteers Laura Lefever, Michelle Patton and Joanne Heritier assist with the Old Settler's Day registration event held annually on the Thursday of festival week at the Whitley County Historical Museum.

By Mike Redman

Several new events will take place during the week of the 108th annual Old Settler’s Day and American Legion Festival.
This years 2011 Festival will run from Tuesday, June 21 through Saturday, June 25, 2011.
OSD Association president Jacie Worrick announced that some organizations new to the Festival have asked join the weeks activities.
“Local non-profit groups that would like to hold an event, in conjunction with our Festival, are always seriously considered. For 107 years, our history has been for the enjoyment and benefit of the citizens of Whitley County. If charitable groups can help provide that, and gain the funds they require to continue their good works, we all benefit,” Worrick stated.
Whitley County Habitat for Humanity is hosting two events this year during OSD. On Saturday, June 25, they will host “The Hammer Run” at Morsches Park. This will consist of a 15K three-member team relay marathon, a solo 15K run and a solo 5K fun run/walk. The event starts at 7 a.m. Pre-registration is required and available on the web at www.habitatwhitley.org or www.runrace.net.
“Hammer It Home” Classic Car Show will also be hosted by Habitat for Humanity on Saturday. It will be held from noon to 4 p.m. at the Whitley County YMCA. There will be music, food, games and door prizes. The Best of Show winner will be invited to drive in the OSD Parade later Saturday afternoon. Information is also available on their website or at their office at Line and North Streets.
The Whitley County Master Gardeners are presenting their 2011 Garden Walk on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Attendees will have an opportunity to tour six beautifully landscaped properties within a short drive on the county roads south of Columbia City. 
The 25th annual Indiana Highland Games and Scottish Festival is coming to Columbia City on Saturday, June 25. Formerly held in Fort Wayne, the Games are primarily sponsored by the Scottish Cultural Society of Northeast Indiana and will be a one-day event at the Whitley County 4-H Park. Starting at 9:30 in the morning, there will be traditional strong-man style heavy athletic competitions, bagpipe music, clan tents, a genealogy booth and children’s activities. A taste of Scottish food cuisine will also be available and the event will run until 4:30 p.m. The Whitley County Farmers Market will be set up at the festival as well with a wide assortment of crafts, plants, fresh vegetables and more. Additional information is available at www.indianahighlandgames.com
The above new events will compliment existing programs for this years Old Settler’s Day Festival.
The American Legion parade starts at 5 p.m. Saturday afternoon at the Columbia City High School, with its standard route down Main Street. Don’t forget the whole-pork sandwiches at the corner of Main and Van Buren Streets. Poor Jack Amusements will once again are man the midway with a variety of rides and games. Bingo is at the American Legion tent on Wednesday through Saturday and the Eagles Lodge will have their famous Noodle lunch on Thursday. The Whitley County Historical Museum will be open all week and sign-up of the oldest and longest residents is held on Thursday. Every evening at 8 p.m. there will be music from some of the areas finest musicians absolutely free on the Courthouse Stage.
Worrick noted, “I have lived all my life in Whitley County, gone to school here, own a local business and have tried to be involved in a positive way in our community. Having the opportunity to be the 108th president of the Old Settler’s Day Festival is an honor and a privilege.”
Other OSD Association officers include 1st Vice-President Toby Chapman, 2nd Vice-President Glenn Snapp, Secretary John Lefever and Treasurer Bill Webber.

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

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Whitley County's State Senator Jim Banks has been named among a noteworthy group of GOP legislators to watch nationally in the years ahead.
Last week, the political website Governing.com noted Banks among a list of 17 players to watch in the nation's state legislatures. A group of experts determined, from a pool of nominees, more than a dozen political leaders to spotlight. Of note, they were looking at leaders they viewed to have a long political future and who might one day seek higher office at the state or federal level.
Banks was the only Indiana political figure to be named by the website.
In the article, Banks was touted for his commitment to local, regional and state politics and his ability to work well with both traditional and new media.
"I’m honored to be recognized," Banks said Tuesday. "I learned a great deal in my first session and already look forward to putting what I learned to use for my district when we return next January.  I am honored to represent our district in the Indiana State Senate and will continue to work hard for Whitley County."

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(Talk of the Town photo provided) Local Christian rock group NewLife is set to perform during the 2011 Turtle Days Festival in Churubusco on Thursday, June 16, 2011, from 7 to 10 p.m. in the entertainment tent. There is no admission fee to attend the show.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

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