Talk of the Town - Whitley County

By Amber Recker

Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana will host the 2011 Alvin and Madeline Strauss Memorial Education Symposium for professionals on September 9, 2011. This year's speaker is Monica Fawzy Bryant of the Cancer Legal Resource Center. Bryant will deliver her presentation, "Cancer and the Law and Understanding Health Care Reform."
This seminar is for social workers, case managers, nurses and other professionals who work with cancer patients and their families. Application for 3.0 continuing education units has been made for nurses, social workers, case managers and lawyers.
The cost to attend is $35, which includes breakfast, symposium and continuing education units. The deadline to register is September 1. The symposium will take place at the Holiday Inn located at 4111 Paul Shaffer Dr. Fort Wayne, Ind. 46825 and will begin promptly at 8:30 a.m.
To register for the event online and to purchase a ticket, visit www.cancerservicessymposium.eventbrite.com/  For additional information, contact Gail Hamm at (260) 484-9560 or ghamm@cancer-services.org

Cancer Services’ mission is to enhance the quality of life of those affected by cancer by providing meaningful resources, information and compassionate assistance. Last year, more than 2,300 local people with cancer and their families received emotional support and practical resources for their cancer journey. Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana helps people who live in Allen, Adams, DeKalb, Huntington, Kosciusko, LaGrange, Noble, Steuben, Wabash, Wells and Whitley counties.
For more information, visit www.cancer-services.org, or call toll free @ (866)484-9560.

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Ivy Tech Community College–Northeast is hosting a Materials Science Camp for Teachers through the American Society of Materials Aug. 1–5 at the Student Life Center on Ivy Tech’s North Campus (4900 St. Joe Road). The event will feature special guest speaker Aziz Asphahani, Ph.D., and Chancellor Jerrilee Mosier, who will conduct opening and closing ceremonies. Thirty high school teachers from 12 different school districts in northeast Indiana are set to attend the event.
“This free training for area high school teachers is a great opportunity to demonstrate simple tools that can be integrated into lesson plans,” said Lisa Smith, project consultant/corporate trainer for Ivy Tech’s Workforce and Economic Development division. “We received an overwhelming response from area educators and are excited to play a part in bringing this unique opportunity to Fort Wayne.”
This event, which is at full capacity, was funded by a professional development grant from the Talent Initiative. The camp is free to teachers and offers a $500 stipend to all participants upon completion, along with the opportunity to earn graduate credits through IPFW for an additional fee.
“Ivy Tech’s Materials Science Camp is an important component of the Talent Initiative’s $2.1 million Professional Development Grant Program,” said Talent Initiative Director Leonard Helfrich. “The PD Grants are designed to institute project-based learning throughout Northeast Indiana, and knowing that each teacher will walk away from this camp ready to begin a materials science-themed project in his or her classroom is very exciting for us.”
The ASM Teachers Materials Camp consists of workshops, taught by two masters teachers, designed to help educators make science principles relevant to students. ASM provides high-quality materials information, education and training, networking opportunities and professional development resources to professionals, nontechnical personnel and managers worldwide.
Chancellor Mosier will conduct the opening ceremony Aug. 1 and the closing ceremony Aug. 5. She will also introduce special guest Aziz Asphahani, Ph.D., who will speak Aug. 3. The camp will culminate Aug. 5 with a luncheon and award ceremony for participating teachers.
For more detailed information, contact Lisa Smith at 260-481-2292 or lsmith246@ivytech.edu. 

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The Whitley County Amateur Radio Club W5YI Team held their quarterly test session today, Saturday, July 30, 2011.
The W5YI Team members present were Cathy Evilsizor / WB8ORR Don Evilsizor / KA9QWC, David Leatherman / AB9XF, Henry Mackey / N9HM, Betty Hopson / KC9HYW, Greg Watson / KA9DTZ and Roger McEntarfer / N9QCL.
Nine people showed up for the October test session and 8 left smiling with a new license or an upgrade to an existing license.
New hams are as follows:
Jeremy A. Holmes – Technician Class – Fort Wayne, IN
William A. Hossler – General Class – Fort Wayne, IN
Jason R. Eicholtz – General Class – Fort Wayne, IN
David W. Shakley – General Class – Fort Wayne, IN
Upgrading hams are as follows:
Michael D. Banks / KB9OZI - Extra Class – Fort Wayne, IN
Richard L. Dennis Jr. / KC9SWR - General Class – Knox, IN
Robert T. Gass / KC9TPE - General Class – Auburn, IN
Daniel L. Zimmerman / KC9QGE - Extra Class – Huntington, IN
The next W5YI Test session will be held on Saturday October 29, 2011 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Peabody Public Library, located at 1160 East SR 205 in Columbia City, Indiana.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Kayla Crance) Churubusco's Paws in the Park fundraiser, held last weekend, raised funds for the Whitley County Humane Society. Above, some event attendees stay cool in the shade. 

By Kayla Crance

The 2nd annual Paws in the Park fundraiser for the Humane Society of Whitley County was held last weekend at the Churubusco Park.
Residents and animal lovers braved the heat to stop by and support the humane society and its animals, many bringing along their four-legged friends to say hi! Attendees chatted with each other, enjoyed some light refreshments, and enjoyed the park with their pets.
A raffle drawing was held to raise money for the humane society; a total of $262 was raised and a 40 lb. bag of dog food was donated for the humane society.
The Humane Society of Whitley County and the Paws in the Park organizers would like to sincerely thank all of the businesses and organizations that donated items for the raffle drawing. They include: Jones Greenhouse, Precision Sharpening, Churubusco High School, East of Chicago Pizza, Bubbles & Barks, The Bargain House, Shroyer’s, Hair Solutions, K&K Video, Brevin’s, Center Stage Dance Academy, Eel River Golf Course, Mountaintop Cafe, Perry’s Country Store and Ramble Inn.
Organizers would also like to thank all of the people that attended the event, purchased raffle tickets and made donations! The community's effort, support and charitable donations are greatly appreciated.
The humane society is always in need of volunteers and donations, including monetary gifts and supplies. For more information on how to volunteer, help out, or donate needed items call the shelter at 244-6664 or e-mail coordinatorhswc@yahoo.com or stop in.
The shelter is located at 951 S. Line St., Columbia City. Shelter hours are: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, noon – 5 p.m.; Thursday, noon – 7 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.; and the center is closed Sunday and Monday.
For more information on the animals available for adoption, visit the WCHS PetFinder home page at http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/IN159.html.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided) Blue River Big Band, above, will perform in a free, outdoors show tonight at Jefferson Pointe in Fort Wayne as part of their summer concert series. 

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

The Blue River Big Band is performing in concert tonight, Friday, July 29, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Jefferson Pointe in Fort Wayne. The concert will take place near the central fountain area.
"As has been said before, this is one of our favorite performance venues – always a good sized crowd, some people relaxing on their lawn chairs and some wandering around the shops. Kids always find their way up close to the band and dance their little hearts away," stated band member Jason Klingaman. "The laid back environment lends itself really well to fun music and that’s what we try to deliver. We’ll be debuting lots of new tunes this year that we’ll enjoy playing and I’m sure you all will enjoy hearing!"
This is a free outdoor show. Visitors are urged to bring their own chairs or blankets to watch the show.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Michelle Culbertson) The Whitley County Chamber Ambassadors recently selected the Whitley County Council on Aging as their August Business of the Month. Attending the ceremony to present the award were, in front from left, WCCOA employees Terry Nicodemus (driver), Tammy Kolash (Transit), Carrie Perry (AIHS Nutrition), Chamber President Sara Lochner-Goff; Executive Director Jackie Hake; and WCCOA employees Bernie King (Transit), and Debra Darr (Office Assistant).
Row two, from left, includes Chamber Ambassadors Shawn Ellis, BABE; Randy Holler, Crossroads Bank; Greg Fahl, Orizon Real Estate; Melinda Woll, Edward Jones Investments; Eric Horvath, City Chevrolet; Linda Beck, Simonson Estates; Jo Robertson, Midwest America Federal Credit Union; Mechelle Simon, Miller’s Merry Manor; and Cari Wells, First Source Bank. 

By Michelle Culbertson

The Whitley County Chamber Ambassadors recently honored the Whitley County Council on Aging as the August Business of the Month. 
Home of the Whitley County Transit Service, the “Meals on Wheels” program and a host of other services for seniors, the Ambassador Team sought to applaud all the WCCOA does for the seniors of our community as well as their steady participation in the chamber and its programs. 
Established in 1974, WCCOA employs 20 people which help to provide programs and services such as free tax preparation, trips, shots/immunizations and the farm wagon, just to name a few.  Additionally, the transit service provides much needed low-cost bus service to the county and numerous activities for local seniors.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided) The Blue River Boys, below, will perform during Collins United Methodist Chruch's upcoming Free Gospel Fest on Sunday, August 7, 2011.

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Collins United Methodist Church invites the community to attend their fourth annual Free Gospel Fest on Sunday, August 7, 2011. 
Attendees will enjoy grilled Nathan's hot dogs, baked beans, chips, lemonade, ice tea, water, coffee and desserts.  The food will start about 5 p.m. The Blue River Boys will sing about 6:15 p.m. 
"This wonderful group is a real blessing to hear and you will be inspired," said Pastor Larry Schmoekel. "We will be outside in the Pavilion, so you might want to bring a lawn chair.  Outside, that is, if the weather is good.  If it is too wet or too hot, we will move inside."
There is no fee to attend the Free Gospel Fest and a free will offering will not be collected.
For any questions call the church 693-1104. 
The church is located in Collins on Darland Avenue, just of SR 205 in Whitley County.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

The Whitley County Humane Society's second annual Canine Carnival is scheduled for this Saturday, July 30, 2011, in Morsches Park.
Events begin at 10 a.m. and continue throughout the day.
According to the shelter's coordinator Kassie Harrold, the Canine Carnival will feature several events through out the day. There will be a moonwalk, dunk tank, band, facepainting, dog washing, dog grooming, micro-chipping, demonstrations, business vendors and a dog contest. The dog contest will include: cutest pet, ugliest pet, pet-owner look alike, water biscuit, canine car, unique trick and cutest costume.
All proceeds generated from the event will support the Whitley County Humane Society. Admission is $1 per person and dogs may attend for free.

What follows is the schedule of activities for the day:
10 a.m. – Softball and Cornhole Tournament Begins
11 a.m. –  Canine Companions Agility demonstration and speaker
11 a.m. to 3 p.m. –  Ihrie Photography
11 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Caricature Paintings
11:30 a.m. –  HOPE Animal Clinic Speaker
12 p.m. – Director and Coordinator HSWC speak and Sherriff’s K-9 UNIT demonstration
12 to 2 p.m. – Clown
1 p.m. – Dog contest begins
2 p.m. – Boberosa Gun Dog demonstration
The J Taylor Band will be playing between breaks and announcing throughout the day.

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Whitley County Salvation Army School Shoe Give-A-Way continues now and until the funds are gone.
Vouchers will be given at the Salvation Army office located inside Eagle Quest Church, located at 1120 N. SR 109 in Columbia City, during office hours of 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Clients need to provide a photo identification, proof of income and proof of residence with a current bill. There will be no exceptions to this rule. 
Children eligible for vouchers will need to be kindergarten through high school age and will be attending schools located within Whitley County. 
Pack-A-Truck with School Supplies will take place across from Shoe Show on Saturday, July 30, 2011, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Salvation Army is seeking the community's help to fill backpacks with supplies. Drop boxes are also located at the local YMCA, Peabody Library and CVS in Columbia City and will be available at those locations until July 30.
A School Supply give-a-way will take place for Columbia City students only on Friday, August 12 from 1 to 5 p.m. and Saturday,  August 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. You will need a photo identification and proof of residence to get supplies. South Whitley and Churubusco will have their own give-a-ways in their communities.
For further information, call Pat Mossburg at Whitley County Salvation Army at 248-1711 in regards to the giveaway or items needed for donations.
You can also adopt a child for $15 to buy them school shoes. Please place in memo of check for "school shoes" or "school supplies."

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(Talk of the Town photo provided)
Whitko High School senior Katie Barnett, center above, is pictured with principal Parrish Kruger and guidance counselor Rachael LePage as she is selected as the Whitko recipient to participate in the 11th year of Leadership Whitley County.  Joining Barnett will be Samara Qureshi of Columbia City High School and Brandi Herron of Churubusco High School.   All
three recipients will be supported by a scholarship grant from the Dekko Foundation.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided) South Whitley received a $600,000 Community Focus Fund Award last week. Below, at center, Lt. Governor Becky Skillman ceremoniously presents the award to town council member Joan Eberhard. At left is Angela Hoffman of South Whitley.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano
with reports

South Whitley was one of 22 communities welcomed to the state house last week and presented with a Community Focus Fund Award. In all, grants totaling $9.4 million were awarded to enhance partnerships between state and local government and public and private organizations.
"I presented representatives from South Whitley a $600,000 CFF grant to help fund a project that will eliminate three active combined sewer overflows, enlarge the main interceptor, and disconnect inflow connections and make upgrades to the community’s existing wastewater treatment plant," stated Lt. Governor Becky Skillman in a new release this morning.
"This project will bring the town into compliance with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management and the Environmental Protection Agency," Skillman added. "CFF grants are federally funded through the Community Development Block Grant program, and are awarded twice a year through a competitive application process."
"With almost half of the state’s population calling rural Indiana home, it has always been our first priority to create conditions that will foster economic growth in every community, no matter its size," concluded Skillman.

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(Talk of the Town photo courtesy BuscoVoice.com) Zach and McKenna Fensler, below, competed in a national dance competition.

From BuscoVoice.com

The fourth of July was a busy holiday for Zach and McKenna Fensler, two local dancers, as they traveled to Chicago for ten days to compete in the Dance America / Dance Olympus National Finals.
There they participated in the Dancer Of the Year Finals, and then competed a solo and duet, and then finished out the week with three days of intense training.
Their duet, “Just Haven’t Met You Yet”, earned first place and also came in Runner Up as the overall high point of the competition for the Juniors.
They also competed at the Allen County Fair, taking first place, and will now take the dance to the State Fair in Indianapolis.
The Fenslers will both be taking classes at New American Youth Ballet this next year as well as competing on the Elite Competition Team at Center Stage Dance Academy.

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By Viv Sade

The deadline is fast approaching for those wishing to file his/her candidacy for one of four, open elected positions in the Town of Churubusco. The deadline to file with the Whitley County Clerk's office is noon on Monday, August 1, 2011.
All three Churubusco Town Council seats and the clerk-treasurer position are up for election this year.
Churubusco candidates interested in any of the four seats may file in the clerk’s office on the second floor of the courthouse in Columbia City, or go to www.in.gov/sos/elections. (click on candidate information for the filing forms)
After the filing deadline, a Town Convention will be scheduled at the Town Hall for the purpose of electing candidates for the four positions.
Town Council members are expected to attend two meetings a month – on the first and third Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. – in addition to a serving on one other county board and/or committee. Council members receive a stipend of $3,924 per year, paid monthly. The town council president receives $4,316 per year, paid monthly. The position is considered a part-time and no benefits or health insurance is included.
The town council is the governing body of the Town of Churubusco and holds voting rights to creating town policies and regulations.
The clerk-treasurer position is a bookkeeping position that also includes the position and responsibilities of full-time utilities clerk. The position of clerk-treasurer has a salary of $8,777 per year in addition to the salary of $40,148.68 per year for utility clerk. The utility clerk position includes full benefits and health insurance, as well as paid vacation days.
Candidates must be 18 years of age, U.S. citizens, registered voters and live within the town limits of Churubusco. One form is used for those candidates wishing to file as a Republican, Democrat or Libertarian; another form is required for Independents.
For more information on election procedures, call Debbie Beers, Whitley County Voter Registration, at 248-3164.

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The following culturally-focused activities are happening this week at the Peabody Public Library. The community is encouraged to attend and participate -- and most events are free.

Monday, July 25 at 2 p.m. -- Foreign Film selection: “How I ended this summer”

Monday, July 25 at 6 p.m. -- Ballroom Dance Class

Tuesday, July 26 at 12 p.m. -- Book Discussion meets at Brewha, “Stones into Schools” ( by controversial author Greg Mortenson )

Tuesday, July 26 at 6 p.m. -- Clogging Class (popular in many cultures, think Irish “Lord of the Dance”)

Wednesday, July 27 at 11 a.m. and/or 6 p.m. -- Macramé Class: Make a Dream Catcher, small fee for supplies: $2.50

Wednesday, July 27 at 4 p.m. -- Make an Ice Candle

Thursday, July 28 at 6 p.m. -- Clogging Class

Friday, July 29  from 1 to 4 p.m. -- End of Summer Reading Party. Join us for refreshments, games and prize drawings.

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The Whitley Arts Partnership  announces the following opportunities for children ages 6-14:

Whitley County Children's Choir
Auditions for Whitley County Children’s Choir will be held July 26 and July 28, 2011, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Columbia City United Methodist Church. Contact Heidi Emmert for more information at 609.7886.

Fort Wayne Youtheatre Theatre Camp
Fort Wayne Youtheatre will be presenting Theatre Camp at Peabody Public Library August 8-12, 2011. Theatre Camp is open to children in grades 2-5 and campers will met from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. each day. 
Theatre Camp is also open to youths in grades 6-8, meeting in the afternoon.
For additional information, contact Becky Walter at 229.6221.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided)
You know it's hot when the chickens take a swim! Whitley County resident Mike Roy was pleasantly surprised to find one of his chickens taking a swim today alongside his ducks in the family pond. We've been experiencing extreme heat this week in Whitley County -- nearing records that haven't been broken since the summer of 1934... it sure must have been hot that year and without air conditioning, it must have been really awful.

If you've got entertaining photos of how you and your pets are keeping cool in Whitley County during this heat wave, send them to: jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano
with reports

Heat may have hampered plans to host the annual Whitley County 4-H Livestock Auction in the show barn on the fairgrounds campus, but keeping buyers cool and comfortable was the order of the day -- and it seems to have paid off for local 4-H'ers.
The auction, held Thursday inside the air conditioned Whitley County 4-H Center, ended with gross sales totaling nearly $377,000.
The auction sales are up from $336,902.21 in 2010 and exceeded 2009's sales figures of $374,932.
In all, 528 items and animals were put on the block Thursday -- down 22 items from 550 sold in 2010.
As more auction sales information becomes available, we will post it here on Talk of the Town.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

The Whitley County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their annual golf outing on August 25, 2011, at Eel River Golf Course.
Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 12 p.m. Lunch will be provided at stations on the course and there are lots of fun, new twists to the event this year, according to Chamber president Sara Lochner-Goff.
More details about the outing are forthcoming soon, but to reserve a spot for your team early or to inquire about sponsorship oppotunities at the event, contact the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce at 248-8131.

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From reports
 
The Columbia City Boys Soccer team & booster club will be selling Scentsy wickless candles from  August 1 - August 30, 2011.  Prices range from $3 to $35. The soccer club will receive all of the proceeds. 
Please contact a soccer player or parent to place an order and support this organization or click here to place your order directly with Jaclyn Croussore.

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From reports

St. Joseph Medical Group will offer $15 sports physicals Thursday, July 28, 2011, from 2 to 7 p.m. at Churubusco Family Medicine, 202 W. Whitley, Churubusco.
All student athletes are invited to take advantage of this special offer which is by appointment only.
To schedule an appointment, call the clinic at (260) 693-3700.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

In order to make room for the relocation of the Whitley County 4-H Livestock Auction on Thursday, July 21, 2011, to the 4-H Center Building, projects will be released early.
Whitley County 4-H Fair staff are releasing projects from the 4-H Center Building, located on top of the hill on the fairgrounds, beginning at 5 p.m. today, Wednesday, July 20. Participants are urged to pick up their projects as early as possible so that the space can be prepared for the auction on Thursday morning.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Extreme heat has forced a change at this year's Whitley County 4-H Fair -- a change most supporters of the livestock auction will likely appreciate.
Typically held in the show barn, this year's livestock auction will be held in the air conditioned 4-H Center Building. While the animals will not be inside the building during the auction, the 4-H members will be there.
Organizers hope the cooler accommodations will enable more people to attend the auction. They feared the drastic weather situation could have caused buyers to stay home this year.
The Whitley County 4-H Livestock Auction will begin at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 21, 2011, in the 4-H Center Building and will continue until approximately 8 p.m.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided) Above, from left, Dr. Drew Miller of the Bowen Center, Gene Smith of Smith and Sons Funeral Home and Siquilla Liebetrau of the Bowen Center are working together to offer a grief counseling partnership.

Article provided

When a loved one passes most people realize that there will be a various degree of loss and grief.  This is to be expected and is normal.  The length of time it takes to recover varies from person to person.  In most cases the recovery time and emotional duress can be minimized by professional individual and or group grief counseling.
However, it is very important to understand that when someone passes, grief is not the only emotional or mental health problem that surfaces. 
The death of someone can bring to the forefront emotional wounds that may have been buried deep inside years ago.  There may have been events that will never be resolved such as physical or verbal abuse, unforgiveness, a feeling of unfairness, guilt, anger or betrayal.  There are many emotions other than grief that are triggered by a death.
Smith and Son’s Funeral Homes realized this and teamed with the Bowen Center, one of Indiana’s most progressive mental health agencies, to provide the families served with free individual and group therapy with professional counselors.  These counselors deal in a wide variety of issues every day.   They are trained and equipped in not only grief counseling but to help the client deal with the other issues that have surfaced.  Counselors are actual mental health professionals, not just someone trained to deal with grief education -- they can help the person with all other mental, personal and emotional health issues.
The program is called a Grief Assistance Program (GAP) and is provided at no cost to Smith and Son’s clients.  The GAP includes individual counseling sessions as well as group counseling.  In addition, a quarterly grief group is held at the Smith and Son’s Coach Room that is open to everyone in the community who is dealing with grief.
For more information, please contact Gene Smith at 244-7601 or Dr. Drew Miller at the Bowen Center 800-342-5653 ext. 3523.

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By Erin Reece

Leaders of the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) late last week appointed State Senator Jim Banks of Columbia City to their national Tax and Fiscal Policy Task Force to work with state legislators and members of the private sector to develop free-market public fiscal policies.
"I am excited about this opportunity to study and learn from fiscal conservative state legislators from around the country - information that will help us implement conservative reforms to address today's economic challenges without raising taxes," Banks said. "While Indiana is one of a handful of states that are fiscally solvent, we have much more work to do to reduce the tax burden on Hoosier families and businesses."
According to the organization's website, the task force develops policy to reduce excessive government spending and lower the overall tax burden. The group has developed budget reform policies, tax and expenditure limitations and legislation opposing Internet taxes.
As a voting member, Banks will participate in his first task force meeting during ALEC's annual conference in New Orleans in August.
Banks said this panel serves as a public policy laboratory where legislators develop model legislation to use across the country.
ALEC officials said Banks was chosen because of his fiscally conservative values and legislative efforts in this year's session of the Indiana General Assembly.
Banks introduced legislation to eliminate Indiana's inheritance tax - also known as the death tax - to help attract investments and encourage economic growth. The Columbia City lawmaker said he plans to reintroduce the measure next year to send a positive message to Hoosiers and keep retirees in Indiana. He also championed an amendment to the state's budget bill giving an automatic taxpayer refund if reserves reached a certain level.
Banks was recently named an "All-Star" by Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. for his efforts to amend Indiana's Constitution to permanently safeguard worker's rights to use secret ballots on union authorization votes. The Columbia City lawmaker also ranked among the top 15 of 50 Senate members with his employer-friendly voting pattern by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided)
The Parliamentary Law and Literary Club president Nancy Reiff and club treasurer Pat Groves recently presented a check to  the Peabody Public Library director Janet Scank and Children’s librarian Pam Hively.  The $500 check will be used to help fund the Peabody Public Library’s Summer Reading Program.  Above, from left, is Janet Scank, Pam Hively, Pat Groves and Nancy Reiff.
This year, the library has 608 children, 72 young adults and 81 adults registered for the Summer Reading Program.  The participants in the reading program can receive prizes for reading over the summer and there are numerous activities offered for participants of all ages. 
The Summer Reading Program will conclude on Friday, July 29 from 1 to 4 p.m. with the End of Summer Reading Party which will include games, prizes and an ice cream social for those who have participated in the Summer Reading Program.

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Visit the Whitley County 4-H Fairgrounds Tuesday, July 19, as the Whitley County Master Gardeners host a series of gardening seminars for the community inside the Ag Museum.
What follows is the schedule of seminars:

1 p.m. - Honeybees and Their Importance by Stan Ide
Stan has been a beekeeper for fifteen years having learned the art from his grandfather.  He currently has a honey farm in the Pierceton area and is willing to show and tell about his farm.  He volunteers his time to the Community Garden Project at the First Church of God.

2 p.m. - Organic Gardening by Kay Fleck and Jay Herron
Master Gardeners, Kay Fleck and Jay Herron, will present organic gardening tpractices including soil preparation, dealing with garden pests, and fertilizers.  Kay has been a Master Gardener for ten years.  Jay recently took the course and has a bountiful harvest from his organic garden for many years.

3 p.m. - Window Boxes and Container Gardens in Venice, Italy by Michelle Beary
During a recent visit to Venice, Italy, Michelle became impressed with the beautiful arrangements of flowers in window boxes and containers.  She is anxious to share her pictures with interested people.  She became a Master Gardener in 2010. 

Additionally, the Whitley County Master Gardeners will behosting a plant sale before, during and after the seminars from 12:30 to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, July 19, on the porch of the Ag Museum. Plants will be sold at bargain prices to benefit the organization.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Tony Romano)
Whether drawn by the enjoyment of reading the books or the excitement of seeing the final movie, a huge crowd of residents began lining up early, above, at Bones Theatre in Columbia City last night for the debut showing of "Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows Part II." Both a midnight and 1 a.m. show were sold out early Thursday evening. Some movie attendees arrived in costume, making the evening's activities even more festive.

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(Talk of the Town photos provided)

By Jennifer Zartman Romano
with reports

Three Whitley County residents have roles in the upcoming Fort Wayne Civic Theatre run of Hairspray.
Set in the 1960s in Baltimore, Hairspray tells the tail of teenaged, plus sized heroine Tracy Turnblad and her victorious win of a dance role on The Corny Collins Show. Turnblad uses her overnight celebrity to bring integration to the show and find true love.
Richard Marchbanks (Corny Colllins) is thrilled to be back on the Civic Main Stage and honored to once again work with local legend and dear friend Harvey Cocks.
A five time Anthony Award nominee, Marchbanks' Civic roles have included Roger DuBris in The Producers and Mitch in Tuesdays With Morrie. You may also recognize him from local television commercials and as former host of a daily television show.
Mick Long (Edna Turnblad) was last seen at the Civic in Curtains. He has also appeared in Little Shop of Horrors, The Producers and Fiddler on the Roof.
Long has done some local television commercial work and has a bachelor's degree in Theatre from Indiana University.
Hannah Schaefer (Ensemble) is making her Civic debut in Hairspray. 
Schaefer will be a sophomore at Columbia City High School this fall.  Recent performances have included Smitty in How To Succeed…, Eudor/Ensemble in Snoppy and as a Dancer/Ensemble member of Cinderella.  This fall she will play the role of Zaneeta in The Music Man at the Honeywell Center in Wabash.
Hairspray opens at 8 p.m. on Saturday, July 23, 2011, at the Civic Theatre, 303 East Main Street, Fort Wayne. Shows continue Friday-Sunday with the last show slated for Sunday, August 7, at 2 p.m.
Adult tickets are $26 per person and youth or student tickets are $18 and can be purchased online at www.fwcivic.org, by calling (260) 424-5220 or at the Civic Theatre box office.

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From reports

The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) Fort Wayne District announces that SR 13 from East Old Wabash Road to SR 114 will be closed for approximately two weeks, weather permitting. Crews will perform maintenance work on the SR 13 Bridge over Eel River.
The closure begins Monday, July 18 and will re-open early August 2011.
The detour follows SR 16 to SR 15 and SR 114.
INDOT urges drivers to slow down while driving through work zones.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided)
The 1st Source Bank team won the 6-9 year-old category of the single elimination girls softball tourney on Tuesday, July 12, 2011. The team held a record of 15-0 this season under the leadership of coaches Jason and Cari Wells.
Above, celebrating the win, in front from left, include Sierra Elliot, Elizabeth Clark, Grace Hill, Addalie Wells and Madalyn Hill. Row two, from left, includes Jaylen Burns, Isabella von Seggern,  Audrey Hill, Haillie Green, Eden Freeman and Margo Keller.

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Legalities of Wind Energy from Otto Andrew on Vimeo.

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From reports

DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home will host a luau-themed grieving children's workshop on July 23, 2011, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the funeral home.
Activities will include remembrance crafts, games and snacks. Participants are invited to wear their favorite beach wear and a towel. Parents and guardians are encouraged to stay and participate.
RSVPs are required by July 20 by calling the funeral home at 244-5122. Please indicate the number of people attending and who you plan to remember at the event to ensure enough supplies and refreshments for all participating.

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From reports

The next Whitley County Consolidated Schools board of trustees meeting is set for Monday, July 18, 2011, beginning at 5:30 p.m. An executive session will immediately follow the regular meeting. The meeting will be held at the Marshall Community Center building, 107 North Walnut Street, in Columbia City.
During the meeting, staff of the new Eagle Tech Academy will be introduced and an update will be given on the status of the new school which is scheduled to open this fall.
An update on the ISTEP testing will also be given.
Several personnel matters and extracurricular assignments will be discussed.
Action items include the approval of a handbook for Mary Raber Pre-School, approval of course fees for Eagle Tech Academy and approval of the recommended administrative appointment.
The next regularly scheduled work session for the board is slated for August 1 and the next board meeting is August 15.

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From reports

Tri Lakes Baptist Church will be hosting it's fourth Clothing Give-Away on Saturday, August 13, 2011, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the church.  Bring your own bags.  There will be no food available.

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(Talk of the Town file photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, overlooking the interior of the Whitley County Agricultural History Museum reveals some of the learning centers that will be open for the community to view and participate in on Sunday, July 17. Below, Beth Ann Sickafoose demonstrates in the one room schoolhouse and, at bottom, Pauline Scott shows necessary items in the pioneer kitchen.

By Ron Myer

The Whitley County Agricultural History Museum and 4-H Learning Center is planning an open house on Sunday, July 17, 2011, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the museum.
All learning centers inside the museum will be open for the public to view and ask questions of the presenters. The purpose of this open house is to help raise money to pay for new bleachers and retaining wall at the grandstands on the fairgrounds, a project that was recently completed.
All donations received during the open house will be used to help pay down the debt associated with the bleachers.
The theme of the floor section will be transportation. many items dealing with the transportation of the past and present will be on display. Some of the items on display have not been displayed in this way before. An assortment of horse-drawn carriages, sleighs and wagons will show how people were able to travel around Whitley County in the early 1900s.
Of special interest during the exhibit will be a small steam locomotive that was built by Russell Simons from handmade parts that he constructed himself. The locomotive is capable of being fired up with coal or wood and running on it's own steam power.
Additional items of interest will include trucks, cars, bicycles, boats and many other displays that were part of transportation in early Whitley County.
The learning centers will be open and presenters will explain how each one was an important part of Whitley County history. The centers include: a one room school, dairy, laundry, sewing, making candles, pioneer kitchen, a woodworking shop, transportation, time line mural, corn shuck dolls, pioneer games and toys, Native American arrowheads and rope making. In the rope making section, all participants will be able to keep the rope they make.
For more information about the Whitley County Agricultural History Museum and 4-H Learning Center, visit the website at www.whitleycountyagmuseum.com

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By Chelsey Barrell

The Whitley County Community Foundation has extended the deadline for submitting Heart of Gold nominations.  The new deadline is Wednesday, July 20, 2011. 
The Heart of Gold Awards is an annual event that recognizes “everyday” people living in Whitley County who make our community a better place to live and work.  Any person living in Whitley County, regardless of age, who enhances another’s life is eligible to be nominated.
Any Whitley County citizen may propose someone for a Heart of Gold Award simply by filling out a nomination form which can be found at some businesses throughout the county, as well as public libraries.  Or you may click here to download a form online.
Persons who received Heart of Gold nominations in years past can also be eligible in 2002 as long as they are nominated for a different act of kindness.
This is not an essay contest and anyone needing assistance filling out a nomination form should contact the Community Foundation at 244-5224.  Excerpts from actual nomination forms may be reprinted in local media and should be suitable for sharing with the public.
All nominees will receive a heart-shaped medallion inscribed with their name.  Three overall winners will each have the opportunity to direct a $1,000 grant to a Whitley County charity or service organization of his/her choice, which works to enhance our community.
To choose the special winners, the Heart of Gold committee will take into account whether the nominee: Identified a need and filled it; recognizes opportunities and acts upon them; shares his/her time and energy for the sake of others; overcomes unusual challenges to serve others; renders a service which changes a life; works to create positive change; inspires others to volunteer; or performs an exceptional act of kindness.

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(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, Shawn Ellis, executive director of the Whitley County BABE program stands inside the newly opened Stages, a new secondhand children's clothing store BABE will oversee as a fund generating business to support the non-profit. Below, full racks of donated, higher quality children's clothing await purchase. At bottom, Stages will also have an ever-changing selection of maternity clothing available for sale as well.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

As part of an overall plan to grow and expand as an organization, the Whitley County BABE program earned their own non-profit standing early this spring and as of this week, they've also launched a continual source of fund generation to aid the organization's growth into the future.
On Wednesday, July 6, BABE launched Stages, a children's clothing resale shop within their existing facility at 301 North Main Street in Columbia City.
Donations of nice quality, donated children's clothing in sizes 0 through 16 are now being accepted. The donated items will them be resold to the community at reasonable, budget-friendly prices -- providing a steady stream of income to support BABE's mission of encouraging positive parenting choices for children ages 0 to five and giving every baby a healthy start in life. Since 1997, BABE has existed to provide 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.
Additionally, a selection of maternity clothing will also be available for sale and donations will be accepted.
"Stages will start out being open when BABE is open," stated BABE's director Shawn Ellis. The shop will be open Wednesdays from 2 to 6 p.m. and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
"Stages is staged growth. As it grows, we will expand hours and days," continued Ellis. "We don't want to bite off more then we can chew to start off with."
"Our hours may change after the first of the year," Ellis added.
Ellis, her staff and volunteers have been busy sorting donations and preparing for the store's launch. All items have been washed, hung carefully and priced affordably. With racks and rounders already packed to capacity and an ever-changing assortment of donated items waiting to be put on display, Ellis said customers will want to visit frequently to take advantage of new items.
"We have so many clothes these racks will continue to change," she said.
In two days, the store has already had an estimated 20 to 30 customers -- already making an impact on BABE's bottom line.
"So many have said I want to give back to BABE and this is how they can give back," Ellis said, "by donating and shopping. It's a win-win."
Another win-win... the fact that customers to Stages will be able to have an introduction to the BABE program and that BABE clients will have an opportunity to purchase affordable, quality used children's clothing.
The store is currently cash only. The opening of Stages was made possible thanks to a grant from the Dekko Foundation.

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(Talk of the Town photo by James Romano) The quilt above, featuring a rural landscape, has been stitched and donated by the Whitley County Country Quilters to the Whitley County Agricultural History Museum and 4-H Learning Center. The quilt will be auctioned off on Tuesday, July 19, with proceeds raised helping to support the museum's efforts to educate the community about it's agrarian past.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

A very special quilt has been lovingly stitched and donated to the Whitley County Agricultural History Museum and 4-H Learning Center in hopes of continuing that organization's mission for future generations.
The quilt will be auctioned off on Tuesday, July 19, 2011, at 6:45 p.m. in the museum on the grounds of the Whitley County 4-H Fairgrounds.
Designed by Jo Crace, the quilt was stitched by members of the Whitley County Country Quilters, block by block. Custom quilting for the project was completed by Cindy Fletcher.
The quilt features a barn, windmill and rural landscape design, surrounded by star blocks and colors of brown, red brick and gold.
The quilt has been on display this week in the Star Financial Bank window at Chauncey and Van Buren Streets and will be on display during the first several days of the Whitley County 4-H Fair, beginning Saturday.
All proceeds raised will support the efforts to share Whitley County's rich agricultural history and traditions with the residents of Whitley County.

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By Gareth Evans

Indiana Senate President Pro Tem David Long announced Monday that he appointed State Senator Jim Banks of Columbia City as chairman of the Water Resources Study Committee. 
Members of the Water Resources Study Committee will examine the usage, quality and quantity of water resources across the state. Lawmakers will also review appropriate policies governing future water resource allocation and distribution planning.
Banks said Senate District 17 is home to many lakes, rivers and reservoirs and he understands their important environmental, commercial and economic value.
Long also tapped Banks to serve as a member of the Code Revision Commission, Indiana Heritage Trust Committee and the Joint Study Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Assessments and Solutions.
During summer and fall months when the legislature is not in session full-time, lawmakers utilize bipartisan interim study committees and commissions to conduct in-depth research into complex issues facing Hoosiers. Often their work results in solutions and legislation that might otherwise go unaccomplished during the fast pace of the winter- and springtime legislative session, Long said. 
"Senator Banks' knowledge and insight will make him a key member of these panels," Long said. "Legislative leaders are pleased he is willing to dedicate time during the interim to help craft bipartisan recommendations."
Banks said he will closely watch developments of other key study committees, review their recommendations and seek public input before the Indiana General Assembly reconvenes in January of 2012:
•Interim Study Committee on Education Issues: Will study how to improve graduation rates by reviewing best practices of other states and measuring the impact school counselors, teachers, administrators and parents have on achievement. Members will also examine superintendent compensation throughout Indiana and evaluate whether a statewide salary cap based upon the number of students per school district would be beneficial.
•Interim Study Committee on Environmental Quality Service: Will gauge water quality in the Great Lakes and review federal funding for water protection and shipping procedures. Members will also evaluate potential air emissions by the distillation of mint and study possible permit licensing requirements for the process.
•Interim Study Committee on Natural Resources: Will analyze all matters relating to the Versailles Lake; including public water supply, water volume, recreational features, wildlife habitat and potential funding for changes made to the lake. Members will also look at mineral extraction procedures in Indiana and state park entrance fee guidelines.
•Interim Study Committee on Economic Development: Will examine issues related to improving Indiana's economic climate and tax system as well as the use and effectiveness of tax credits and deductions. Committee members will also discuss specific sectors of the economy for which Indiana might have comparative advantages over other states and possible improvements to state tax law that might encourage business investment. The committee will also study the extent to which Indiana's education system supports economic development and how the use of stolen information technology by Indiana businesses impacts the economy.
•Interim Study Committee on Employment Issues: Will investigate the idea of making Indiana a right-to-work state - where unions and employers would be prohibited from denying employment to a person who does not wish to become a union member or forcing employees to pay union dues. The committee will also discuss project labor agreements, which preemptively place union requirements on projects, potentially curtailing labor competition.
•Commission On State Tax and Financing Policy: Will consider how Indiana's income tax structure may influence a senior citizen's decision on residency in Indiana after retirement as well as the advantages and disadvantages of phasing out the state inheritance tax. The committee will also explore how each of the local option income taxes affects a facility that employs a significant number of out-of-county residents and those who commute daily to work at that facility.
More information about committee topics, schedules and agendas will be available online at www.in.gov/legislative/interim.

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From reports

Motivational speaker and Christian inspirational rapper Ethan Birch, known professionally as Six8, will be coming to the Whitley County Family YMCA on Thursday, July 14, 2011, at 10 a.m. to perform a program for local children. He will be speaking and rapping about bullying, doing good in school and some other great topics for youths in the community.
Parents and children of all ages are welcome to come and be a part of this free event.

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(Talk of the Town photo copyright Jennifer Zartman Romano)
The Peabody Library Summer Concert Series begins this Saturday, July 16, 2011, at 6 p.m. on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn.   
To celebrate with the Concert Series, The Clugston Senior Apartments will be hosting an open house on Saturday evening.   You are invited to visit and learn about this unique living opportunity in the heart of downtown Columbia City -- on Chauncey Street -- across from the Courthouse.  Tours will be provided and there will be cold beverages and snacks, as well as a drawing for a free prize. 

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
Transforming an otherwise plain brick wall into an creative vision, local artist Doug Egolf spends a recent sizzling Saturday morning putting finishing touches on a mural on the south wall of the Brew Ha coffee shop in downtown Columbia City. Nearby, Keith Gurevsky sips a coffee and observes the artist at work. Egolf's work can be found throughout the Brew Ha, from the murals on the wall to several pieces of artwork hanging on the walls there.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Kayla Crance) Paws in the Park creator Danielle Hartmann, below at left, poses for a picture with some of the visitors at last year's event!

By Kayla Crance

One year ago, Churubusco High School student Danielle Hartmann decided she wanted to organize an event to raise money for the Humane Society of Whitley County and raise awareness of animal abuse, cruelty, and neglect. And that is how Paws in the Park became a reality.
This year, the event will be making its return to Turtle Town on Saturday, July 23, 2011, from 12 to 4 p.m. at the Churubusco Town Park.
There are a couple of changes to the event, but the goal is still the same: bring Busconians together to enjoy a great day in the park with their pets and raise money for the local animal shelter.
Like last year, HSWC staff will be on hand with animals currently up for adoption so residents can visit with their furry little friends.
There will also be a raffle drawing held with all proceeds going to benefit the humane society. Get your tickets now! Raffle tickets will be available for purchase until 3 p.m., Saturday, July 23 (at the event). Tickets are only $1 each or get 6 tickets for $5! There are plenty of great prizes up for grabs and it is all for a good cause! To purchase tickets, call (260) 750-5889.

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(Talk of the Town photo and image provided) Amy McVay Abbott, shown below at left, a Whitley County native and Whitko High School graduate, recently penned a book of essays about life in Washington and Cleveland Townships in addition to her experiences in southern Indiana. The book's cover is shown below, at right.

Article provided

Former Whitley County resident Amy McVay Abbott has written a book called “The Luxury of Daydreams.”
Abbott’s book features thirty essays which highlight stories from Washington and Cleveland townships in Whitley County, as well as her life in southern Indiana. 
Abbott is descended from two pioneering families of Whitley County, the Longs and the Creagers.  Christian Henry Creager owned a mill near South Whitley and is reported to have helped developed State Street. Reuben Long and his brother came to Washington Township and purchased farms near Tunker in the 1830s.
A freelance writer and independent journalist, Abbott writes a column called “The Raven Lunatic” which runs bi-weekly in the eight Indiana newspapers. Readers wrote to Abbott and suggested she write a book.  She published on a Christian imprint, WestBow Press, which is a division of Thomas R. Nelson Publishers. 
Abbott graduated from Whitko High School and Ball State University and is married to Randy Abbott and has one son.  She is the daughter of long-time, former South Whitley residents William and Marilyn McVay, and has a brother Andrew who also graduated from Whitko.  Her father is a retired Whitko High School agriculture teacher.
Growing up in Whitley County in the 1960s was a wonderful blessing,” Abbott said, “Both my brother and I are grateful for the close community of schools, churches, and neighbors we experienced.”
For speaking engagements, book signings, and ordering information, visit the web site at http://theluxuryofdaydreams.blogspot.com.  The book is currently available on the WestBow Press online bookstore.
Abbott is hoping to have several readings and signing events in Whitley County in September. 

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From reports

The Harold "Potch" Wheeler Memorial Golf Outing has been planned for Wednesday, August 10, 2011, at Eel River Golf Course. Tee time has been set for 12:30 p.m.
Participation is $75 per person or $300 per team, which includes a light meal before the outing begins and dinner following the event. Participants may also plan to attend the dinner only for $30 per person.
Funds raised at the event will support the Whitley County Republican Party. The event is the party's main fundraiser of the year.
For additional information or to register, contact Crystal Leighty at 799-5511 or via email at crystalk_wheeler@hotmail.com

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The deadline will soon be approaching for children to register for the 2011 Columbia City High School Mini Cheerleading Camp. Camp is slated for August 1-5, 2011, from 6-8 p.m. each evening in the gym at Columbia City High School. For further information or to complete a registration form prior to July 25, 2011, click here for the full story and registration form.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

An event that has been a significant fundraiser in support of local breast cancer awareness has been canceled.
The Eagle Glen Monday Night Ladies League's Memorial Golf Scramble, slated to have been held this Saturday, July 9, 2011, has been put on hold for the year, according to the event's planning committee.
"We just did not have the teams to proceed," said a planner for the annual fundraiser, Linda Hyndman. "We are grateful we were able to raise funds and awareness for The Whitley County Women's Giving Circle over the past three years." 
According to September McConnell of the Whitley County Community Foundation, which oversees the Giving Circle, the Memorial Golf Scramble has raised more than $9000 in the past three years -- supporting several Women's Giving Circle activities including the free mammogram program. The program provides gift certificates for mammograms to women in need or whose insurance may not cover the vital testing that can detect breast cancer at it's earliest stages. McConnell praised the Eagle Glen Monday Night Ladies League's efforts at supporting the program over the past three years at a luncheon Wednesday.
The Memorial Golf Scramble has been held annually in memory of Sally Jo Cooper, Karen Behm and Betty Barrett. Last year's event alone raised $3900 for the Women's Giving Circle.

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(Talk of the Town photo provided)
Emma Hindbaugh, shown above in the arms of her father, Cory Hindbaugh, won Grand Champion in the Open Show portion of the 2011 Whitley County Swine Evaluation Show. Hindbaugh was delighted with the opportunity to participate in this year's show, an opportunity made possible thanks to the kindness of many friends as Hindbaugh has been recovering from cancer. The blue ribbon prize was truly the icing on the cake and many local residents were joyfilled at Hindbaugh's ability to participate in this year's event. Shown above with the Hindbaughs is 2010 Whitley County Pork Queen Amy Wagoner.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Lynn Lancaster)
Dillon Sheiss, son of Donnie and Kelley Sheiss of 3D Stock Farm, won the Grand Champion 4-H Barrow on foot at the 2011 Whitley County Swine Evaluation Show held this week at the Whitley County fairgrounds. Above, Sheiss is shown with his grand champion animal. Standing far right is 2011 Pork Queen Kayla Rothgeb.

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Article provided

Hoosier Riverwatch, a Department of Natural Resources education program, hosts workshops around the state to train people to monitor local streams, rivers and lakes.
The next volunteer stream monitoring workshop is at the North Webster Community Center on July 15, 2011. The training is free, but a reservation is required to attend.
“By learning the basics of stream monitoring, participants can launch a lifelong passion that not only benefits the environment, but also can be personally fulfilling,” said Rob Carter, DNR director. “If we’re to protect this crucial natural resource into the future, we need to foster an understanding and appreciation for conservation that will sustain us for generations to come.”
The workshop will be held Friday, July 15, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EDT. The workshop will provide general education in water-quality issues and hands-on training in monitoring the health of rivers and streams through physical, chemical and biological testing.
After the training, volunteers can perform stream testing for a wide variety of possible pollutants. They then submit their data to a statewide volunteer monitoring data base that makes the information available to anyone.
“The training is for anyone interested in learning about water quality and gaining hands-on experience in monitoring rivers and streams,” said Lisa Ritter-McMahan, Hoosier Riverwatch coordinator. “People interested in the environment, especially educators, are invited to attend.”
Hoosier Riverwatch, sponsored by the DNR, through its Division of Fish and Wildlife, is a statewide education program that focuses on local river and stream stewardship. To date, more than 5,000 people have participated. Check out www.HoosierRiverwatch.com to find water-quality data collected by program graduates and to discover where monitoring has taken place.
Hundreds of youth and adult organizations, including watershed and river protection groups, churches, 4-H, Boy and Girl Scouts, municipalities, and schools monitor their local water quality each year.
“The Riverwatch monitoring program fits easily into elementary, middle and high school classes, including biology, chemistry, math, language arts and social studies,” Ritter-McMahan said.
The program has been correlated to Indiana state standards for science at both the middle school and high school levels. Teachers can obtain three Certification Renewal Units for attendance.
For reservations, specific location and directions, contact Wendi Tomasik at the Tippecanoe Watershed Foundation at twf-wendi@kconline.com or 574-834-3242.
To learn more about Riverwatch, visit http://www.in.gov/dnr/nrec/2945.htm.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Whitley County Business & Networking meets this Friday, July 8, 2011, at 8:30 a.m. at the Brew Ha in Columbia City.
Any local business person or non-profit leader is invited to attend and share information about their business, organization or upcoming events. There is no fee to attend Whitley County Business & Networking meetings. The meetings are held on the second and fourth Friday of each month.

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Several resident voice concerns over city police ticketing the recent Indiana Highland Games & Scottish Festival, saying they feel that while there were "no parking" signs posted, the situation could have been handled differently. Read their comments today on Community Voices - click here.

If you'd like to share your opinion on a topic of interest to you, send your letter to: jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com

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(Talk of the Town photo by Viv Sade of BuscoVoice.com)
What a great way to cool off on a hot, summer day! The Churubusco Splash Pad is open seven days a week, weather permitting, and is located on the campus of the Churubusco Community Park. There are picnic tables and a shaded pavilion for parents or guardians to sit and watch their children play, above, and enjoy a picnic meal. The splash pad was made possible with generous support from the Paul Muller Fund and the Whitley County Community Foundation. Named "Paul's Pad," it officially opened in the fall of 2010.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

With all the weekend festivities, a lot of aluminum cans were likely generated -- soda cans, beer cans, you name it!
At Loon Lake, bag up your aluminum cans and on Saturday, July 9, 2011, volunteers will pick them up and cash them in -- with proceeds benefiting next year's fireworks display. Volunteers will pick the bags up at 9 a.m. Saturday morning.

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Video by Otto Boschet Jr.

Whitley County Council July 6, 2011 from Otto Andrew on Vimeo.

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By John Slavich

Do you know someone that is going above and beyond to make a difference for kids in Whitley County? Someone that works to create an environment that ‘lifts up’ young people?  Someone who is looked up to and admired by young people and volunteers their time and talent to better the lives of our county’s youth? 
If you know someone who fits this description, there is a way you can recognize their dedication to youth and honor them.
Count Me In!, Whitley County’s 40 Developmental Assets initiative, is sponsoring an award called “Count On Me.”  This award is designed to recognize caring individuals who make a difference in the lives of young people in Whitley County.  People who serve as quality role models for youth in our communities. 
The winner or winners will be recognized at the Heart of Gold reception on August 11th  at Indian Springs Middle School, and will also be able to direct up to $500.00 to the youth serving agency of their choice in Whitley County.
Nomination forms are available at the Whitley County Community Foundation.  To nominate a candidate for this award write your reasons as to why the individual or individuals should be recognized.  You can also complete the form attached to this article - click here.
Nomination forms are to be returned to the Whitley County Community Foundation by August 1st, 2011.
If there are any questions please call the Community Foundation at 244-5224.

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(Talk of the Town photo by Michelle Culbertson) DQ Grill & Chill was recently selected as the July 2011 Business of the Month by the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors. Those present for the recognition ceremony, above, from left, included Mechelle Simon, Miller’s Merry Manor; Jim Landrum, STAR Financial Bank; Nancy Reiff, Reiff Construction; and Chamber President Sara Lochner-Goff as well as many from the staff of DQ Grill and Chill at right, from left, Tammi Woodward, owner; employees Miranda Rohrer, Amber Lecklider, Kelsey Graves and (back row left to right) Brandon Davis, Ashley Woodrell, Kurtis Little, Chrissy Sinegar, Brooke Woodrell and Vicki Darr.

By Michelle Culbertson

The Ambassador Team of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce announced that the July winner of the Business of the Month award is DQ Grill & Chill.
Located on Main Street, this restaurant staple in Columbia City has been serving ice cream treats to our community for more years than most of us can remember. The Dairy Queen franchise began in 1938 and by 1941 had opened almost 10 stores in the franchise.  After World War II, the franchise exploded and their 5900 restaurants can now be found in countries all over the world. 
Local franchise owners Doug and Tammi Woodward converted the Dairy Queen into the DQ Grill & Chill / Orange Julius, serving a variety of meals, hot food items and smoothies along with their famous ice cream cakes and treats. 
With 30 employees, Columbia City’s DQ is one of the 40 stores across the United States and Canada that is a certified training location with trainees coming from as far away as Georgia, West Virginia and North Dakota. Franchisees and managers spend two weeks in two separate training sessions learning how to make products, learn customer service skills and management duties. The Woodwards represent over 420 DQ franchises of the Eastern Great Lakes region at the DQ Franchisee Advisory Council.
DQ regularly provides a free ice cream cake to other Business of the Month award winners as well as sponsoring and supporting a wide variety of non-profit endeavors.  For their commitment to both the Chamber and the community and for their excellence in progressive business standards, the Ambassador Team awards this honor to them for July.

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By Nick Kight

Huntington University’s EXCEL business students recently placed in the Top 25 worldwide in the Global Business Simulation Strategy Game.
Competing against teams from around the world, four teams from the EXCEL Adult Degree Program’s business administration, human resource management and not-for-profit leadership degrees competed in mid-December in a business simulation competition hosted by GLO-BUS. The GLO-BUS competition helps students learn how to make decisions faced by everyday companies by placing them in circumstances that parallel real-world conditions.
“We are excited to have our teams do so well in the GLO-BUS competition,” said Dr. Rick Upchurch, director of the EXCEL program. “This validates the quality of the EXCEL program at Huntington University in a way that was evident to everyone. GLO-BUS’ integration of the various business functions into a competitive simulation made the experience both challenging and enjoyable for the students while providing a real assessment of learning. We are extremely proud of our students and their hard work in this competition.”
This is the first year that the university has participated in this competition.
For more information about the GLO-BUS competition, visit www.glo-bus.com.
EXCEL’s online bachelor’s degree in business administration was recently ranked ninth in the Top 10 Online Bachelor of Business Administration Degree Programs of 2011 by The Best Colleges, a publication that reviews publicly available data and then produces independent ranking assessments of colleges in various disciplines.
In March, Huntington University also 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 adult-degree 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.

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(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Volunteers play an integral part in the success of the annual Whitley County 4-H Fair. Above, in 2010, Columbia City Rotary Club members Doug Graft, Dr. Ron Longenbaugh and Dick Buchanan volunteer serving dinners inside the 4-H Center Building. Many volunteers are needed to lighten the load at the fair -- could you contribute an hour or two to help?

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

We're now down to days.
Across Whitley County, youths are busy walking their pigs, purchasing show clothes, polishing up their projects and daydreaming about a standout, favorite week of the whole year: the Whitley County 4-H Fair.
The 87th annual Whitley County 4-H Fair will be held July 15-21, 2011, at the Whitley County 4-H Fairgrounds in Columbia City.
As the week approaches, however, many close to the program are anxious to find enough volunteers, particularly adult volunteers, to pitch in and make this year's event a resounding success. Volunteering can be a fun, enjoyable and rewarding opportunity. Do you have an hour or two to spare during fair week? If so, consider volunteering to help in one of these ways:
* Shuttle Cart Drivers *
Help with shuttle cart drivers each day during the fair.  Anyone interested in this can contact Kyle Francis at 229-2874 or Jeff Geiger at 229-0635.
* Manure Removal Trucks *
The livestock directors are in need of several large trucks for manure removal each evening and especially on Friday. If anyone is available to help out in this area please contact Aaron McDevitt at (260) 417-8336 or Jeff Geiger at 229-0635.
* Concession Stand Volunteers *
Additional help in the concessions area is always needed and very much appreciated. Anyone interested in helping in this way, please contact Chad Nix at 229-2347.
* Brew Barn Volunteers *
More volunteers are needed to work the Brew Barn coffee stand, especially on Sunday and Tuesday. In addition to preparing coffee drinks, they're adding smoothies this year. Training will be provided. To help, contact Kelley Sheiss at 3dsheiss@gmail.com

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(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
The sun gleams across Loon Lake Sunday evening, illuminating a boat's sails. Fair weather Sunday and Monday made for an enjoyable afternoon on the water for many local residents.

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From reports

An American Red Cross blood drive is being hosted by Northeastern REMC on Thursday, July 28, from noon to 4 p.m.
The blood drive will be held in the REMC conference room, 4901 East Park 30 Drive, Columbia City. To schedule an appointment, contact Deanna Kissinger at 625-3700, ext. 412.

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(Talk of the Town file photo copyright Jennifer Zartman Romano) Signups will begin July 11, 2011, for local youths interested in participating in the Columbia City Parks Departments Junior Football League. Above, a team practices during the 2010 Junior Football League.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

The autumn football seems far away...but it really isn't! In fact, the Columbia City Parks Department's Junior Football League signups begin Monday, July 11, 2011 and will continue until Friday, August 5.
Registrations will be taken at the park office in Morsches Park from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Printable registration forms can be found online at www.columbiacityparks.us
The Columbia City Parks Department's Junior Football League is a fun, competitive tackle football program for children in grades 2-6. Full pads and helmets are worn and the fundamentals of football are taught and practiced. All helmets, shoulder pads, pants, mouth guards and pads are provided by the Columbia City Parks Department.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact the park office at 248-5180.

League Age Groups:
Rookie League 2nd & 3rd grade
Practices on Monday & Wednesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. with scrimmage midway through the season.
All practices and Scrimmages will be at Morsches Park.
(Scholarship opportunities available)
Cost: $50

Junior Football League 4th & 5th grade
Practices on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Games will be held on Saturdays beginning September 17 at 11:30 a.m.
All practices and games will be at Morsches Park.
(Scholarship opportunities available)
Cost: $85

6th Grade Travel Football team
Practices on Tuesdays & Thursdays with one game per week. This team will host a couple home games in Columbia City at Columbia City High School and travel to surrounding areas for other games. The sixth grade league is organized by an organization out of Garrett.  Schedules will be given out at a later date.
(Scholarship opportunities available)
Cost: $85

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Editor's Note: A local resident's home weather station recorded a wind gust of more than 60 miles per hour during the storm Saturday evening.

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(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Below, guests board a boat at Shriner Lake in northern Whitley County's Tri Lakes community for Luau on the Lake in 2007. The event will be held at Tri Lakes once again this year, raising funds for The Lighthouse, Whitley County's only homeless and transitional living facility. 

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

In memory of a woman who dedicated many years to making gourmet hors d' oeuvres for the event, planners with The Lighthouse homeless shelter's annual Luau on the Lake have decided to name this year's event for the late Betsy Gates.
Luau on Tri Lakes, a benefit for The Lightouse, is a progressive dinner at the homes of several Tri Lakes residents and will be held Saturday, July 23, 2011, with voyages setting sail at 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Guests will board pontoon boats, enjoy various hors d' oeuvre, dinner and dessert stops around the lakes and extended boat tours.
According to The Lighthouse director Tania Keirn, this year's dinner menu includes: Chicken Supreme or Pulled Pork, red skinned potatoes, vegetable and salad.
Tickets are $35 per person and on sale now by calling The Lighthouse at 244-5266. Typically, the limited seating for the event is reserved quickly.
All proceeds support the The Lighthouse's transitional living program, aiding homeless residents in the community and helping them get on their feet once again.

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By Kayla Crance

Come to the Churubusco Park on Saturday, July 23, 2011, from 12 to 4 p.m. and enjoy a nice day in the park with your pet! All proceeds from the event will go to benefit the Humane Society of Whitley County. Staff and Volunteers from the shelter will also be on hand and have some animals that are available for adoption. Visit with the animals and bring your own pets!
There will be refreshments available (with proceeds going to the shelter) and freewill donations will be collected. A raffle drawing will also be held starting at 3 p.m.
Raffle tickets are available now and will be available until 3 p.m. the day of the fundraiser. Raffle tickets are $1 per ticket or $5 for 6 tickets. To purchase raffle tickets, call (260) 750-5889 or purchase them at the event.
Thanks to the following businesses who have donated raffle prizes so far: Precision Sharpening, Churubusco High School, Mike’s Donuts, East of Chicago Pizza, Bubbles & Barks, The Bargain House, Shroyer’s, Hair Solutions, K&K Video, Brevin’s, Columbia City Walmart, Center Stage Dance Academy, Eel River Golf Course, Mountaintop Cafe, Perry’s Country Store and the Ramble Inn.

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(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Whether you prefer camping old school style, above, or something more modern with the comforts of home, Ray Ranier of Peabody Public Library has some helpful tips and cooking ideas to make your next camping trip memorable.

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

If you're a camping enthusiast or thinking about becoming one, an upcoming presentation by Peabody Public Library's own Ray Ranier should be a priority on your list.
On Thursday, July 7, 2011, at 6:30 p.m., Ranier, a local camping expert, will present a program on camping tips and offer a cooking demonstration. He will provide an assortment of helpful tips and show you how to prepare some amazingly tasty dishes to wow fellow campers on your next big adventure.
Registration is requested and the program is free. Adults and children are welcome to attend. To register, call Peabody Public Library at 244-5541.

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By Jennifer Zartman Romano

Many people are still wondering... Where and when can I enjoy fireworks this weekend?
- Columbia City - Morsches Park - Saturday, July 2, 2011 - at dark
- Loon Lake - Northwestern Whitley County - Saturday, July 2, 2011 - at dark
- Tri Lakes - North central Whitley County - Saturday, July 2, 2011 - at dark

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