The Indiana Department of Transportation announces State Road 236 will close on or after Monday, June 12 near Russellville for resurfacing work.

It will be closed between S.R. 59 and U.S. 231 through early September, weather permitting.

The official detour follows S.R. 59 to U.S. 36 to U.S. 231.

This contract was awarded to Milestone Contractors South, LLC for $2.8 million. The entire contract is expected to be completed in June of 2024.

Crews will be constructing a functional Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) overlay. An HMA overlay is a combination of asphalt cement and aggregate placed over aging pavements as a pavement preservation treatment. 

The Domestic Relations Committee of the Judicial Conference of Indiana is seeking comments on proposed changes to Indiana’s Child Support Rules and Guidelines, which are used to make decisions about child support in dissolutions of marriage, legal separations, paternity cases, Title IV-D proceedings, and all other actions for child support.

The proposed changes address:

A revised weekly schedule for child support based on more recent economic data

Removal of uninsured healthcare payments from the weekly schedule for child support

Amendment of the low-income adjustment to account for income of both parents

Simplification of uninsured and unreimbursed healthcare expenses

New language permitting calculation of the parenting time credit when a parent

spends a different amount of overnights with each child

Updated child support obligation worksheet to reflect guideline revisions

Emphasis on giving the rationale for any deviation from the presumptive child support guideline amount, even when parents agree

Clarification of split custody and child support calculations

Updated language on payment of birth and postpartum expenses in paternity cases

Feedback will be accepted until 12:00 p.m. (Eastern) on Friday, June 30, 2023. Comments may be submitted online or mailed to the Indiana Office of Court Services, c/o Domestic Relations Committee, 251 North Illinois Street, Suite 800, Indianapolis, IN 46204.

The Domestic Relations Committee is composed of judicial officers from across Indiana and receives staff support from the Indiana Office of Court Services.

The Committee will review public comments to assist in recommending amendments of the Child Support Rules Guidelines to the Indiana Supreme Court. The Court has the final authority over the guidelines.

The officials at the Indiana Department of Environmental Management have called for an Air Quality Action Day on Friday for several Indiana counties.

Carroll, Warren, Tippecanoe, Clinton, Howard, Fountain, Montgomery, Boone, Tipton, Hamilton, Madison, Delaware, Randolph, Vermillion, Parke, Putnam, Hendricks, Hancock, Henry, Vigo, Clay, Owen, Morgan, Johnson, Shelby, Rush, Sullivan, Greene, Monroe, Brown, Bartholomew, Decatur, Knox, Daviess, Martin, Lawrence, Jackson and Jennings.

This Air Quality Action day will be in effect until 11:59 p.m.

An Air Quality Action Day means that a combination of the high temperatures, light winds, and other factors, are expected to produce conditions where high levels of ozone emissions may exceed federally mandated standards.

Here are some recommended actions that the public can take to reduce ozone forming emissions:

Walk, bike, carpool or use public transportation.

Avoid using the drive-through and combine errands into one trip.

Avoid refueling your vehicle or using gasoline-powered lawn equipment until after 7 p.m.

Turn off your engine when idling for more than 30 seconds.

Conserve energy by turning off lights or setting the air conditioner to 75 degrees or above.

Money, equipment and the utilization of equipment at a general store have become the topic of conversation and questions surrounding the Clinton Township Volunteer Fire Department. 

Chief Tony Camp said he has received several questions and has been personally attacked by several in the community, including a former firefighter who served before the department was shut down by the Walnut Creek Fire Prevention District. 

"Attacks on the department, district board or an individual associated with the department will not be tolerated," Camp said. 

The purchase of a hovercraft has come under questioning, and Camp said the purchase was based due to geographical locations of Glenn Flint Lake and VanBibber Lake.

"As one should already know, we train for ice and water rescue, not just fire training," Camp said. 

Camp noted the purchased was "well planned" and input and suggestions were taken. 

He said the hovercraft has the ability to reach areas that a regular pontoon boat will not, and can travel over water, ice and land. 

"We take pride in our investment as the previous Clinton Township Volunteers took pride in the purchase of a $180,000 tanker to replace the previous tanker that only needed about $5,000 worth of maintenance," Camp said. 

There have also been questions as to why equipment purchased by taxpayer dollars are being used at a general store operated by Camp.

Camp said when he took over the department in August 2022, it was discovered that former members were planning to sell items that were purchased by the Clinton township Auxiliary account, which was funded by free will donations. Camp said he was able to use close to $3,200 in the Clinton Township Volunteer Fire Department account to purchase those items back with the exception of a freezer. 

The Putnam County Post has requested a copy of bank records pertaining to the auxiliary account. 

"By reviewing previous bank records, it was discovered the outside freezer was purchased for $800 with CTVFD funds and then sold to a previous member. When the freezer was sold, the funds were never put back into the CTVFD auxiliary account," said Camp, who added he was able to recover $400 from an individual representing the auxiliary at the time. 

Camp said the freezer in the kitchen was used outside until someone did not properly close the door, causing the compressor to burn out and quit working. 

He added the new ice freezer that was housed at the fire department has indeed been moved to the Lakeside Mini Mart.

"The location is better suited for customers to obtain ice. It will also allow staff to better monitor inventory. All proceeds from the ice freezer still benefit the fire department," Camp said. 

Camp said when the previous fire department auxiliary account was closed and cashed out, bank records show the previous board and department members received a personal check and liquidated remaining auxiliary money into their own pockets. 

"It is the same adults that were unsuccessful at keeping the previous department together who are the same adults attempting to destroy the current department," Camp said. 

The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) announced that U.S. Army Pfc. Leonard E. Adams, 25, of Dana, Indiana, killed during World War II, was accounted for July 20, 2022.

In January 1945, Adams was assigned to Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 157th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division. Elements of the unit were supporting five companies attempting to secure terrain near Reipertswiller, France, when they were surrounded by German forces while being pounded by artillery and mortar fire. The surrounded companies were given the order to attempt a break-out on Jan. 20, but only two men made it through German lines. The rest were either captured or killed. Adams was among those killed, but his body could not be recovered because of the fighting.

Beginning in 1946, the American Graves Registration Command (AGRC), the organization that searched for and recovered fallen American personnel in the European Theater, searched the area around Reipertswiller, finding 37 unidentified sets of American remains, but it was unable to identify any of them as Adams. He was declared non-recoverable on May 4, 1951.

DPAA historians have been conducting on-going research into Soldiers missing from combat around Reipertswiller, and found that Unknown X-6372 Neuville, buried at Ardennes American Cemetery, an American Battle Monuments Commission site in Neuville-en-Condroz, Belgium, could be associated with Adams. X-6372 was disinterred in July 2021 and transferred to the DPAA Laboratory for analysis.

To identify Adams’ remains, scientists from DPAA used dental and anthropological analysis, as well as circumstantial evidence. Additionally, scientists from the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System used mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) analysis.

Adams’ name is recorded on the Walls of the Missing at Epinal American Cemetery, an American Battle Monuments Commission site in Dinozé, France, along with others still missing from WWII. A rosette will be placed next to his name to indicate he has been accounted for.

Adams will be buried in Radcliff, Kentucky on a date yet to be determined.

The City of Greencastle announced today that Miller Pipeline’s work on the Albin Pond Water Line replacement project will require temporary street closures on Arlington Street. The road will be closed to allow for the installation of two new water mains from one side of the street to the other.

Starting, Wednesday, May 31, Arlington Street will be closed during the day for construction near Shadowlawn Avenue for the first crossing.    On Monday, June 5, Arlington Street will be closed near Hillcrest Drive for the construction of the second crossing.  Each crossing will take about two construction days to complete.  The street will be open for evening and nighttime traffic.

Detour signs will be posted by Miller Pipeline.

Citizens are asked to avoid the area and use alternate routes such as Shadowlawn Avenue to the east side, Indianapolis Road and Round Barn Road.  Other neighborhood streets can be used to avoid the street closures.

Work on the two crossings should be completed by June 9.

It's been a month since a house fire resulted in a fatality at 1047 Van Bibber Lake Estate, and Clinton Township Volunteer Fire Department Chief Tony Camp continues to respond to questions from a handful of residents, including a former member of the department prior to the department being shut down in 2022. 

When firefighters arrived, they found a home and adjoining garage fully engulfed. Carol Haney, 69, died of carbon monoxide poisoning in the fire. 

"I am sorry this tragic incident happened and it is absolutely tragic that someone died. The only thing that would have saved her was a working smoke detector. If she had one, it would've alerted her in plenty of time," Camp told The Putnam County Post earlier this month. 

However, Camp's department has faced questions surrounding response times, as well as other questions from several residents. 

In regards to response times, Camp said his department's response times are within the NFP Standards for Volunteer Fire Departments. 

Camp said the fatal fire highlighted several issues his department faces, including more volunteers, as the department currently has seven firefighters. 

"This highlights the need for more volunteers everywhere, not just here. There isn't a volunteer department in America that doesn't need more firefighters," said Camp, adding the fire department isn't geographically accessible to anything in the township and there have been times he's had to leave where he was and stop by the department to grab the squad truck before heading out. 

Despite the answers, Camp has fallen victim to more questions and attacks on social media recently. 

One question centered around why any of the original trained members of the fire department are not allowed on the current fire department. 

Camp said each applicant is required to meet a set of criteria set forth in the 2023 by-laws of the department. 

"Applications are reviewed on an individual basis. If an applicant has been declined the opportunity to join the department, the applicant may schedule a time to meet with the board of directors for further discussion regarding this decision," Camp said. 

Another question was how can the district board claim last June the department would be disbanded for no chief, despite a statement by a board member of the Walnut Creek Fire Protection District that former chief Jack Giles, who resigned, would not sign another contract. 

The Walnut Creek Fire Protection District voted unanimously to void the contract with the Clinton Township Fire Department under the belief the the department was a separate entity from the fire protection district and could not operate without a chief. 

"The district board stated in a 2022 public district meeting that if Clinton Township Fire did not get its act together, the district would not renew the Clinton Township contract. The department was dissolved, restructured and reopened under different leadership chosen by the district board," Camp said.

Camp said it is his desire to be transparent and that his department is "thriving and successful."

"With perseverance, training and dedication, this department will continue to grow and serve the community for many more years to come,” Camp said. 

Governor Eric J. Holcomb announced the appointment of Department of Local Government Finance (DLGF) Commissioner Wesley R. Bennett to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC).

As DLGF commissioner, Bennett oversees Indiana’s property tax assessment system. DLGF also reviews and approves the tax rates and levies of all local tax levy authorities which include counties, cities, towns, school corporations, libraries and special taxing district.

Before being appointed as the commissioner of DLGF, Bennett served for 12 years as the elected Clerk-Treasurer for the Town of Plainfield. Under his leadership, he oversaw budgeting, fiscal analysis, internal auditing and controls, utility accounts payables and receivables, and managing funding of capital infrastructure projects.

“I am honored to be selected by Governor Holcomb and serve the energy users and providers of our great state,” Bennett said. “I look forward to working with IURC Chairman Jim Huston, my new colleagues on the commission and the team of highly trained professionals. My previous roles in both the private and public sectors will serve me well as we move the state forward toward cleaner, more efficient and reliable energy delivery systems and methods. I want to thank my staff at DLGF, and the many stakeholders that supported us as we strived to deliver the highest and most effective level of customer service to local government.”

Bennett will begin June 26.

While Celina Clements is not native to Greencastle, she is quite familiar with the town and is ready to take over the reigns as principal at Greencastle Middle School on July 1.

Clements, who previously served as the principal at Mill Creek West Elementary School, replaces Becky Stephenson, who has been named the district's assistant superintendent. 

"I have always loved coming to Greencastle for the restaurants and sporting events, both when I played and coached and when my own children came here for their events. Greencastle has always been a welcoming town, and its teams have also shown great attitudes and determination. I love the feel of the town; a mix of town, county and college all feels inviting to new people," Clements told The Putnam County Post. 

Education has been a part of life for Clements since graduating from Indiana University in 2001. 

"My path to this degree is very typical. I babysat for many years in middle school/high school and continued working in the summers through college with United Way in Indianapolis. I've always loved being around kids, and I took one introductory course at IU and was hooked. I have always enjoyed my time as an educator, from teaching to assistant principal and principal role. Being a principal is rewarding in different ways, being involved with all students and staff is my favorite part. I have always been able to know each student's name and know a detail about them or their families, and I look forward to doing this at Greencastle Middle School too," Clements noted.

Clements inherits a school that is in the midst of a construction project. 

Upgrades include a new office, new media center, a new nurse's station, revamped classrooms and new science classrooms that will feature its own lab. 

Clements said she has been in the building and is still learning the school's layout. 

"With the new builds I've been able to see, I have been impressed. I am excited to get into the building more frequently this summer. I have received my key and will be able to do that soon. It is tremendously exciting to be at Greencastle; it's a bonus to have an overhauled building. New things are fun, and learning how to use all the new things best suited for student learning is the key," Clements said. 

And, with the 2022-23 school year ending and Clements looking forward to the start of the 2023-24 school year, she has a message for her new school, students and families. 

"A message to my new students and families is that I want to meet them, say hi and connect with each family. My favorite part of a new school is learning its traditions, values and expectations; the best way to learn this is to meet everyone," Clements said. 

Joey Jones has always remembered what it was like growing up in Putnam County with grandparents who were actively involved in bettering the lives of those around them. 

It's a major reason why the owner of Rockstar Window Tinting and Auto Glass Plus will be holding a Cruise In and Fundraiser on June 3 to benefit Isaiah 117 House of Putnam County. 

The event will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Rockstar Window Tinting, 3197 South US Hwy 231, Greencastle. 

"Fundraisers and giving back to the community has always been big in our businesses and personal life, especially anything with youth involved. Growing up, my grandparents were heavily involved in the Optimist Club, both in Putnam County and other counties. Seeing them firsthand be able to provide opportunities to youth that may never get to experience things in life was amazing. Whether it was sports activities, sponsoring summer camps or even fixing used bikes and donating them back to kids without, and what wasn't possible without the support of the community," Jones told The Putnam County Post. 

Isaiah 117 House is a non-profit organization that provides a home for children on the day they are removed from their biological family by DCS and serves as a temporary safe environment where children are cared for by trained volunteers, fed, dressed in new clothing and comforted on the worst day of their life, according to Rissa Shepherd, expansion coordinator for Isaiah 117 House. 

Jones said he believes the greatest investment a community can make is in its youth, and that is why he is partnering with Isaiah 117 House. 

"I believe the greatest investment is in our youth, and anything we can do to improve their chances of success or even just living a healthy life day to day has been our focus throughout various fundraisers and volunteering," Jones said.

The event will feature plenty of vehicles on two wheels and four wheels, as well as food, according to Jones.  

"I am hoping to pack the parking lot with cars, trucks, motorcycles and jeeps. We will be firing up the grill and serving lunch. Hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, bottle drinks and a dessert are on the menu. All proceeds will go to the Isaiah 117 House of Putnam County. They are currently working to obtain property to build a house in our county and any funding we can contribute will definitely help with the cause. Isaiah 117 House will have team members on hand to talk about the current progress, future and answer any questions people may have about their organization and how to get involved," Jones said.

And, there will be an opportunity for people to check out the Rockstar Window Tinting and Auto Glass Plus facility, as well.  

"This is going to be a very fun and relaxed event. It is something you can stop in, grab lunch with the family and check out some cool rides. We will have the Rockstar Window Tinting and Auto Glass Plus facility open so people that have never been in our store can see what we have to offer and meet the excellent staff we have," Jones explained.

This isn't the first fundraiser Jones has put on, as he also hosts a fundraiser in August. 

"It started out as a birthday party for myself with my "car friends and family," and quickly transformed into a big cruise in and toy drive for Riley Children's Hospital at Lieber State Park. Last year we had over 100 vehicles participate in showing off their cars, trucks and motorcycles and well over 200 people showed up and ate with us as we grilled all day. Overall, we collected enough toys to fill up the bed as tall as the roof of my full size truck with children's toys and crafts. It was really amazing," said Jones, who added this year's event will be even bigger. 

For a little over seven years, Recovery Raw has been making a positive impact in the lives of those staring down addictions in Putnam County. 

While serving time in jail, Eric Rippy came up with an idea to assist addicts and Recovery Raw was born. 

"The fact was I had never done a single thing to leave an ounce of positivity behind if I passed. I began facilitating classes while in there and facilitating nightly recovery meetings in different cell houses. I was hooked. Something about other grown men begging you to help them change their lives, to secure freedom for themselves and their families got to me. So I knew when I was released after a decade, I had to continue the journey," Rippy told The Putnam County Post. 

According to Rippy, the primary role of Recovery Raw is "to make it one more week clean, sober, at peace and continually changing that old way of thinking/victim mentality." 

And, now he is looking to have a huge impact on all of Putnam County, as Recovery Raw will host its Family Fun Day on Saturday, June 10 at Robe Ann Park, 621 Tennessee St., Greencastle. 

The festivities will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will feature a bounce house and face painting for kids, as well as pulled pork, hot dogs and chips available for $5 a plate or a donation. All proceeds will go to benefit Isaiah 117 House.

Isaiah 117 House is a non-profit organization that provides a home for children on the day they are removed from their biological family by DCS and serves as a temporary safe environment where children are cared for by trained volunteers, fed, dressed in new clothing and comforted on the worst day of their life, according to Rissa Shepherd, expansion coordinator for Isaiah 117 House. 

"This will be a day for Recovery Raw to show the county that we love them. We will have a bounce house, a DJ, face painting, hot dogs and chips for kids, pulled pork sandwiches, and a fire truck from Madison Township Fire Department. We are going to make it a day of fun, hanging out and giveaways. We need this house in Putnam County. Some have been surprised that one non profit is donating to another, but, to me, that is what it is all about, full circle," Rippy said. 

Recovery Raw meets every Thursday from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Lifebuilder Community Center, 701 East Washington St., Greencastle. For more information, email Rippy at recoveryrawpuntamcounty@gmail.com. 

Indiana State Police and area law enforcement agencies are participating in the “Click it or Ticket” enforcement campaign through the Memorial Day weekend and would like to remind all motorists the importance of doing their part to help ensure everyone’s safety.

Troopers will be watching for unrestrained passengers in cars and trucks and for dangerous and impaired drivers. Overtime enforcement is made available with National Highway Traffic Safety Administration funds administered by the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI).

Troopers are offering the following safety tips:

Ensure you are well rested, especially if you have plans to travel a long distance. A fatigued driver is a dangerous driver and often mimics the driving behavior of an impaired driver.

Follow other motorists at a safe distance.

Obey all speed limits and use your turn signal.

Always utilize your turn signals when changing lanes and when turning.

Avoid “hanging out” in the left lane unless you are actively passing or preparing to make a nearby left turn.

Avoid driving while distracted. Please don’t use your cellphone while driving.

Ensure everyone is properly buckled up.

Don’t drink and drive.

If you have plans to consume alcohol, please ensure you have a plan to get you and your family home safely.

Motorists that observe a possible impaired driver are encouraged to contact 911 immediately. Please be prepared to give a description of the vehicle, license plate number and route of travel.

As aggressive marketing continues, the Internal Revenue Service renewed an alert for businesses to watch out for tell-tale signs of misleading claims involving the Employee Retention Credit.

The IRS and tax professionals continue to see a barrage of aggressive broadcast advertising, direct mail solicitations and online promotions involving the Employee Retention Credit. While the credit is real, aggressive promoters are wildly misrepresenting and exaggerating who can qualify for the credits.

The IRS has stepped up audit and criminal investigation work involving these claims. Businesses, tax-exempt organizations and others considering applying for this credit need to carefully review the official requirements for this limited program before applying. Those who improperly claim the credit face follow-up action from the IRS.

“The aggressive marketing of the Employee Retention Credit continues preying on innocent businesses and others,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “Aggressive promoters present wildly misleading claims about this credit. They can pocket handsome fees while leaving those claiming the credit at risk of having the claims denied or facing scenarios where they need to repay the credit.”

The Employee Retention Credit (ERC), also sometimes called the Employee Retention Tax Credit or ERTC, is a legitimate tax credit. Many businesses legitimately apply for the pandemic-era credit. The IRS has added staff to handle ERC claims, which are time-consuming to process because they involve amended tax returns.

“This continual barrage of marketing by advertisers means many invalid claims are coming into the IRS, which also means it takes our hard-working employees longer to get to the legitimate Employee Retention Credits,” Werfel said. “The IRS understands the importance of these credits, and we appreciate the patience of businesses and tax professionals as we continue to work hard to get valid claims processed as quickly as possible while also protecting against fraud.”

The IRS has been issuing warnings about aggressive ERC scams since last year, and it made the agency’s list this year of the “Dirty Dozen” tax scams that people should watch out for.

This is an ongoing priority area in many ways, and the IRS continues to increase compliance work involving ERC. The IRS has trained auditors examining ERC claims posing the greatest risk, and the IRS Criminal Investigation division is working to identify fraud and promoters of fraudulent claims.

The IRS reminds anyone who improperly claims the ERC that they must pay it back, possibly with penalties and interest. A business or tax-exempt group could find itself in a much worse cash position if it has to pay back the credit than if the credit was never claimed in the first place. So, it’s important to avoid getting scammed.

When properly claimed, the ERC is a refundable tax credit designed for businesses that continued paying employees while shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic or that had a significant decline in gross receipts during the eligibility periods. The credit is not available to individuals.

Three individuals with ties to Brazil and Clay County found themselves inside the Clay County Jail after being arrested on separate drug investigations by the Clay County Sheriff's Department. 

Officers arrested Katelynn H. Weaver, 21, Carbon, at her home and was booked into the Clay County Jail on a charge of dealing meth, a level 2 felony, and possession of meth, a level 4 felony. 

Court records show Weaver was also arrested in April on a possession of meth, level 5 felony, posted a $1,000 cash bond and has a jury trial scheduled for August on that matter. 

In addition, Julie F. Wells, 45, Brazil, was arrested after a warrant was served for her arrest. She was booked on a possession of meth, a level 6 felony, charge and a charge of dealing meth, a level 4 felony. 

Court records show a jury trial is slated for August on these charges, but Wells is also facing charges from April after being arrested on a level 6 possession of meth and a misdemeanor charge of possession of paraphernalia. 

The final individual arrested was Michael L. Cooksey Jr., 46, Terre Haute, after he was located at a Terre Haute residence. Cooksey was arrested and booked on a charge of dealing meth, a level 4 felony, and possession of meth, a level 6 felony. 

Duke Energy has begun converting more than 600 streetlights across the city of Greencastle to LEDs (light-emitting diodes).

The new, energy-efficient lights will replace decades-old light fixtures, resulting in significant energy and cost savings for the city.  

“We appreciate Duke Energy’s Energy Efficiency LED Rebate Program that made this project financially feasible,” said Greencastle Mayor Bill Dory. “Our residents will benefit from enhanced safety due to the better quality and longer-lasting LED fixtures. We expect to see far fewer lighting outages after the completion of the project.”

The project began in late April and is expected to conclude by mid-summer. Once installation is completed, the upgraded streetlights will result in an annual cost savings of approximately $30,000 for the city of Greencastle.

The new LED streetlights will emit a noticeably clearer, brighter light than the existing high-pressure sodium (HPS) streetlights, which produce a dim, amber-orange hue. LED lights have a much longer life span, are safer for traffic, warm up quicker, and have lower maintenance costs than HPS lights.

“Energy-efficient outdoor lighting not only provides positive environmental benefits for our customers, but also significant cost savings,” said Rick Burger, government and community relations manager at Duke Energy. “We worked with Mayor Dory to bring this streetlight conversion project to fruition and look forward to our continued work with the city to deliver electric grid enhancements that will benefit the community.”

A father-son burglary team has been connected to a number of cases.

Hendricks County Sheriff’s Office detectives, with assistance from the Indiana State Police, Avon Police Department, and the Plainfield Police Department arrested two suspects who have been linked to more than five burglaries in the Avon and eastern Hendricks County areas. 

After a lengthy investigation, detectives identified Robert L. Evans, Jr., 53, and his son, Robert L. Evans, III, 25, who are the suspects in the ongoing investigation.  Evans, Jr. is from Gary, Indiana, and Evans, III is from Indianapolis. 

Thanks to the vigilance of residents, recent law enforcement interactions with both individuals, and various investigative tools including home security surveillance systems, detectives were able to identify burglaries dating back to December 2022 that have now been linked to the father and son duo. 

Robert Evans, Jr. is being held in the Hendricks County Jail for Burglary of a Dwelling, Burglary while Armed with a Deadly Weapon, Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Theft.  Robert Evans, III is being held in the Hendricks County Jail for the criminal offenses of Burglary of a Dwelling and Burglary while Armed with a Deadly Weapon. 

If anyone can provide additional information about this case, please contact the Hendricks County Sheriff’s Office Investigations division at 317.745.9354. 

Greencastle Parks and Recreation have started a 5-year master plan to improve the city's recreational space and the access to those recreational spaces.

Having a master plan improves the number of funding opportunities Greencastle Parks and Recreation will have access to. It also allows for public input, ensuring the public has a say in what happens with the existing parks, whether new parks are added, what programs will be offered at each location, as well as a say in the accessibility to each location, such as the People Pathways connecting all Greencastle Park locations.

While there are three phases to this process, phase one could be argued as the most important as this phase is about gathering information and input from the community about what they want to see in their parks as well as whether more parks need to be added to Greencastle. One suggestion that has already been made is to turn the recently demolished old Jones school site into a park for an area of Greencastle that seems to be neglected as far as easy access to a park is concerned.

The Greencastle Parks and Recreation director, Greg Ruark, is asking the public to take a short survey of only 19 questions. You can do that by scanning the QR code at the bottom, or by clicking this link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GreencastleParksandRecreationQRSurvey.   

First responders were called to a home near Bainbridge Wednesday morning.

Just before 8 a.m., firemen arrived at the home onCounty Road 500 North.  Two adults were found inside the home.  Joshua Poole, 42, and Kristen Allen, 38, were declared dead at the scene.

The Indiana State Fire Marshal's Office is investigating. The county coroner will work to identify the deceased.

United Way of Central Indiana has awarded $50,000 in special grants to five Putnam County nonprofits.

Funding will help the organizations address the basic needs, education, housing and economic mobility of local residents. 

During this funding cycle, grants went to Beyond Homeless, Family Support Services of West Central Indiana, Food for Life Food Pantry (New Life Church), Servants at Work and Transformers of Putnam County. 

Interested nonprofits were invited to apply for the special funding in April. A committee of seven local stakeholders reviewed applications and selected the recipients and grant amounts. 

“These investments will continue to focus on the 35% of Putnam County ALICE households, an acronym meaning asset limited, income constrained, but employed—who are struggling to make ends meet,” said Chris Flegal, United Way’s community relations director for Putnam, Hendricks and Morgan counties. “I'm thankful for our local grants committee who volunteered their time to review applications, and for our network of donors who make this impact possible.”

Recipients of the special grants are: 

Beyond Homeless, $20,000: Funding will help Beyond Homeless provide nutritious food, hygiene and cleaning supplies to emergency and day shelter participants and provide rent, mortgage, utility, transportation, food and other essential assistance to families at risk of homelessness.

Family Support Services of West Central Indiana, $5,000: Funding will go toward the supportive housing program for domestic violence survivors and capacity support for staff. 

Food for Life Food Pantry (New Life Church), $5,000: Funding will help purchase food to keep the pantry operating.

Servants at Work, $10,000: The organization will continue to build ramps, steps and railings to help residents with disabilities in Putnam County, targeting lower-income households.

Transformers of Putnam County, $10,000: Funding will support school-year mentoring and summer enrichment programs for youth and economic mobility programs for adults. 

Last month, Family Support Services of West Central Indiana took home a $50,000 prize at Propel, a United Way pitch contest. The award was presented and chosen by the event’s sponsor, media company Audiochuck. Funds will go toward the supportive housing program. 

Also this year, more than 450 students across Putnam County participated in two United Way literacy programs. ReadUP partners volunteers with third graders to get them on track with grade-level literacy. And Real Men Read brings male mentors into kindergarten classrooms to read to students. 

On June 23, United Way will host its third Go All IN Day, an organized day of community service across the region. Grants totaling $1,500 have been approved to support projects in Putnam County. Interested volunteers can view the projects and sign up by visiting goallinday.com and clicking “volunteer here.” 

If you get an unexpected message saying you owe money for medical services, think twice before you make a payment.

BBB Scam Tracker has received reports about phony medical bills and collections departments.

How the scam works

You receive a letter or a call informing you that you owe money on a medical bill. If you follow up, the "billing department" will insist that you need to pay immediately. If you don't, you will allegedly face consequences, such as fines, damage to your credit score, or even jail time. Eager to settle your debts, you provide your credit or debit card number. But before you pay, the scammer will ask you to confirm your name, address, and other sensitive information, which may include your Social Security or bank account number.

This scam has several versions. In some cases, the bills and medical services are entirely fabricated. For example, one person told BBB Scam Tracker that they "received a medical bill for $500 for Covid testing that supposedly occurred in VA in January. I did a quick look into the business website and the site wasn't even registered/live until May. I was also out of state (in CA) when it claims I got tested."

Other times, the doctor's visit was real, but the company claiming you owe money is a scam. One?BBB Scam Tracker report states, "I received a medical bill on 01/18/2023. I called the billing department number on the statement. However, I miss-dialed[sic] the number… and I was re-directed to a possible scam agency." In this case, the "billing department" asked for the caller's email, credit card details, birthday, and other personal information. Then, they told the caller they had taken care of the bill and would send an email confirmation. Neither was true.

No matter what pretense the scam uses, giving scammers your personal information puts you at risk for identity theft. Plus, any money you pay them might be lost for good.

How to avoid medical billing scams

Verify the claims. If someone claims you owe money, ask for the details. Any legitimate collections company should be able to tell you to whom you owe money and when you received services. Consider it a red flag if they aren't forthcoming with this information. In any case, it's a good idea to hang up and contact your doctor's office, hospital billing department, or insurance company directly and find out if you really do owe money.

Look up the customer service number. Do an internet search for the phone number that contacted you or the customer service number on the letter you received. The number should be registered to an official business associated with your doctor or hospital. If it isn't, consider it a red flag. Keep an eye out for reports from others who identify the number as part of a scam.

Don't give in to scare tactics. Scammers often try to make you feel like there will be extreme consequences if you don't pay them immediately. Don't be intimidated by a stranger who contacted you out of the blue. Legitimate businesses won't threaten you if you have questions or want to verify the information before making a payment.

Guard your personal information carefully. If someone calls you unexpectedly and asks you to "verify" your personal information, think twice. Be sure you're talking to someone you know and trust before divulging information that could be used to commit identity theft, even if the caller sounds professional.

For more information

Read about a similar scam in BBB Tip: Healthcare scams are after your personal information. 

Before you call customer support, read about fake customer support numbers.

If you spot a medical scam, report it to BBB Scam Tracker. Your experience helps us boost public awareness about common scam tactics.

To learn more ways to protect yourself, go to "10 Steps to Avoid Scams." Visit our Scam Tips page for information on other types of scams.

For Putnam County Sheriff deputies Josh Deal and Cpl. Scott Ducker, serve and protect is more than just words as the two literally live it day in and day out.

That was evidenced by the fact the two recently received the Putnam County Sheriff's Merit Board's Life Saving Award for their heroic actions earlier this month. 

Deputy Deal received the distinction for his actions on a call from May 2, as he arrived on the scene of an incident where a woman had a severe cut on the wrist with serious bleeding. Deal placed a tourniquet on the victim's arm prior to her being life lined from the incident. 

According to Putnam County EMS Deputy Director Anthony Taylor, Deal's actions potentially saved the victim's life. 

He also received strong words from Sgt. Anthony Brown of the Putnam County Sheriff's Department. 

"Deputy Deal's quick thinking, while arriving to a very chaotic scene, saw the need to apply a tourniquet to the subject's arm. Deputy Deal placed the tourniquet above the bicep and was able to control the bleeding to the injured area, saving the subject's life," Brown said. 

Four days later, Ducker responded to a possible overdose in Cloverdale. 

Upon arrival to the scene, Ducker administered a dose of Narcan in the nostrils of the victim, who became combative as she came out of her overdose and was arrested by Ducker. 

Brown also spoke highly of Ducker's actions. 

"Corporal Ducker responded quickly arriving at the residence within eight minutes of being dispatched. Corporal Ducker proceeded up to the patient and acted quickly, administering one dose of Narcan. Corporal Ducker radioed dispatch and advised the patient was coming around. Due to Corporal Ducker's quick actions on arriving and administering Narcan, I believe he played a key role in saving the patient's life. It is my recommendation, that Corporal Scott Ducker be recognized for a Life Saving Award," Brown said. 

Putnam County Sheriff Jerrod Baugh said deputies have a "responsibility to perform their job at a high level of excellence."

"During these work related events, some people will be arrested, some will be helped and on rare occasions like these, people will be saved," Baugh said, thanking his deputies for their actions.  

Indiana State Police K9 Jett has received a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.

K9 Jett’s vest was sponsored by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. through the Amazon Smile donor percentage purchase program and embroidered with the sentiment “This gift of protection provided by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.”.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and NIJ certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,077 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations.

The program is open to U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old and actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $985 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1800.00, weighs an average of 4-5 lb., and comes with a five-year warranty.

For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.

Indiana will lift its ban on throwing stars this summer.

Effective July 1, Senate Enrolled Act 77 will regulate throwing stars the same way as other knife-like weapons.  A ban from school property is included.

At first, legislation was to limit throwing stars to recreational businesses until Indiana House lawmakers broadened the bill.

Under Senate Enrolled Act 77, Indiana will regulate throwing stars the same way as any other knife-like weapon, which includes a ban on school property.

State Senator Linda Rogers (R-Granger), pushed for the legislation, and approved of the final version.

With repairs done to restrooms, air conditioning, carpet and parking lots across the district, the Cloverdale Community Schools are ready to embark on another wave of upgrades for the district. 

During the last project in 2022, the school district did upgrades at Cloverdale High School, Cloverdale Middle School, Cloverdale Elementary and the district office. 

At Cloverdale High School, the following was done: replacing of the domestic hot water heater, remodeled the main gym restrooms, replaced rooftop A/C units, replaced interior core HVAC unit, new carpet throughout the building and the the parking lot was resealed and striped. 

Cloverdale Middle School saw chillers replaced, several window leaks were repaired and the parking lot was resealed and striped. 

At Cloverdale Elementary, the primary electrical panel was replaced, new carpet was put down throughout the school and the parking lot was resealed and restriped. 

The district office received a new roof, new windows, gutter replacement and the parking lot was resurfaced and restriped. 

"Currently, the school corporation will relieve some debt obligations by the end of the calendar year. We plan to sell bonds in 2023 which will keep the school corporation's debt rate level. The school board is currently reviewing and prioritizing a list of projects that were developed by various staff and our maintenance departments," Cloverdale superintendent Greg Linton told The Putnam County Post. 

Linton said he imagines upgrades security upgrades to the entrances of each school, restroom upgrades, and new carpet at the middle school to be amongst the upgrades. 

According to the district's website, the school board will give notice the district has preliminary determined to issue bonds in one or more series in the aggregate amount not to exceed $2 million to fund the proposed renovation of and improvements to the facilities across the district, including site and athletic improvements and the purchase of equipment and technology. 

"We are looking forward to the opportunity to make some needed upgrades to our facilities. We take a lot of pride in our facilities and it is important to us to keep them operating efficiently and looking professional. We believe the project will enhance the learning environment as well as improve the opportunity for students to socialize with each other," Linton said. 

Indiana health officials are urging Hoosiers to protect themselves from tick bites during and after spending time outdoors to protect themselves from tick-borne diseases.

“Even though we’ve had a cool, wet spring, ticks are already out and looking for their next meal,” said State Public Health Veterinarian Jen Brown, D.V.M., M.P.H. “The risk for tick-borne disease is at its highest for the next few months, so we want Hoosiers to protect themselves by taking precautions against tick bites.”

While Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne disease in Indiana, Hoosiers are also at risk for other tick-borne diseases, including ehrlichiosis and spotted fever group rickettsiosis (a group of diseases that includes Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever). While the risk for Lyme disease is highest in northwest Indiana and the risk for ehrlichiosis is highest in southern Indiana, ticks that carry these diseases have been found throughout the state. All Hoosiers should take precautions to prevent tick bites from early spring through late fall, when ticks are most active.

Preventing tick bites is the best way to prevent tick-borne diseases. Hoosiers can take the following precautions to prevent tick bites:

• Know where ticks are likely to be present (close to the ground in grassy, brushy or wooded areas);
• Treat boots, clothing and outdoor gear with 0.5% permethrin (NOTE: permethrin should NOT be used on bare skin);
• Use EPA-registered insect repellents with active ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD) or 2-undecanone;
• Treat your pets for ticks in consultation with a veterinarian.

Once indoors, people should thoroughly check for ticks on clothing, gear, pets and skin. Tumbling clothes in the dryer on high heat for 30 minutes will kill ticks, and showering can help remove any unattached ticks.

“Tick checks are an essential part of preventing tick-borne diseases. Promptly removing an attached tick can prevent you from becoming sick in some cases,” Brown said.

Ticks may be safely removed by using tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin and then pulling outward with steady and even pressure. After the tick is removed, the area should be washed thoroughly. Ticks should never be crushed with the fingernails.

If desired, an attached tick that has been removed may be saved in a sealed bag or container of alcohol for later inspection in case the person or pet becomes ill. Alternatively, ticks may be flushed down the toilet or wrapped tightly in tape and thrown in the trash. Testing ticks to see if they are carrying diseases is not generally recommended, as the information cannot reliably be used to predict whether disease transmission occurred.

Anyone who becomes ill after finding an attached tick should see a healthcare provider immediately and alert the provider to the exposure. Most tick-borne diseases can be treated with antibiotics, and prompt diagnosis can help prevent complications.

For more information about ticks and how to prevent the diseases they carry, see the IDOH website at http://www.in.gov/isdh/20491.htm.