R & J Petrol located at 306 W Pat Rady Way, Bainbridge, IN. was closed earlier today due to health code violations.

R & J Petrol is a gas station with food service. The Putnam County Health Department and its authorized agents closed the establishment for violation for Rule 410 IAC 7-24 and Putnam County Ordinance 2015-3-2. However, R & J Petrol establishment is still authorized to sell non-potentially hazardous, pre-packaged food and any non-food items.

Once they are back in compliance, the Putnam County Health Department will authorize the preparation and selling of food again.

This Saturday, April 30, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is sponsoring the 22nd nationwide “Prescription Drug Take Back” initiative.  The “Take Back” initiative seeks to prevent prescription drug abuse and theft through proper disposal of prescription drugs.

Collection sites will be set up nationwide for expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs which will be properly disposed of without threat to the environment.  This program is for liquid and pill medications.  Vaping pens without batteries and vaping cartridges will also be taken.  Needles WILL NOT be accepted for disposal. 

This service is free and anonymous with no questions asked.

This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue.  Unused or expired medication in home cabinets is highly susceptible to theft, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs.  Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.

Indiana State Police at Putnamville, which is located at 1927 West US 40, will be accepting unused or expired prescription medication this Saturday, April 30, between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Experience is the main point of focus for the candidates for the Putnam County Clerk’s race.

For Tracy Bridges, it is 22 years experience in county government and currently serving as the county’s recorder, while Debbie Ensor has 29 years experience in the clerk’s office, serving as the first deputy.

“I have 22 years experience in county government, eight years in office management and staff management. I am a life-long resident of Putnam County and am really passionate about the county and the people who live here,” Bridges told the Putnam County Post.

On the other side of the ballot, Ensor started in the auditor’s office in the 1990’s as a claims deputy before moving to the auditor’s office in 1993.

“I worked under Marty Watts and have her support. I have worked under three clerks and have been first deputy for last 20-something years,” Ensor told the Putnam County Post.

Bridges was elected as recorder in 2014, replacing her mother, Opal Sutherlin, who retired after more than two decades in county government.

“It was really great. Mom was the clerk for eight years, as well. It was big shoes to fill. I was a little more progressive and ready to advance things than mom. We were able to move to more electronic services, and it has expedited services,” said Bridges, who added the electronic recording process is something she is proud of having accomplished during her tenure as recorder.

Ensor also touted the digitizing of records in her office as something she is proud of.

“We have gone paperless and a new state-wide system that I was the main point person of. We have cleaned up a lot of files going digital,” Ensor said.

Both candidates touted their respective experience as a reason why voters should select them in next week’s Republican primary.

“I have the past experience. I haven’t worked in the clerk’s office but have worked in several offices around the clerk’s office. The state won’t let you fail and I have no doubt in my ability. I have the ability to manage people, meet state guidelines, follow budgets and the management experience,” Bridges said.

For Ensor, she touts her experience in the clerk’s office and having been the point person on several changes in systems and practices within the office.

“We have gone paperless and a new state-wide system that I was the main point person of. We have cleaned up a lot of files going digital. Our clerk’s office runs very smoothly. There are no problems in here that we have, we are very busy and very streamlined and keep it together. I would try to get some more revenue into the county with court costs and fees that we are not getting paid. I am very experienced, knowledgeable, dependable and honest. I have been here for 29 years and can do everything in this office,” Ensor said.

Cloverdale Town Marshal Steve Hibler, Republican candidate for Sheriff in Putnam County, spoke with Johnny McCrory on GIANT fm WREB about the May 3 primary and his candidacy for the position.

To kick off Visit Indiana Week, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is running a promotion of the Indiana Destinations Development Corporation that runs May 1-7. Starting with a FREE fishing day on Sunday. 

For starters, the Indiana state parks, state recreation areas, reservoirs (on.IN.gov/stateparks), and state forests (on.IN.gov/forestry) that charge a daily gate fee for each entering vehicle will waive that fee for all guests on May 1. Sunday is also the first Free Fishing Day of the year. Indiana residents will be able to fish on that day without a fishing license or trout/salmon stamp, with all size and bag limits applying for those who keep fish.

Free Fishing Day applies to all public waters in Indiana, and free admission provides the perfect chance to fish at one of the many DNR destinations that offer fishing. You can find a fishing destination at on.IN.gov/recfinder.

Free Fishing Day is an ideal chance for anglers to share fishing with someone who does not have a license. To help them get started, fishing tips and videos are at on.IN.gov/learn2fish. You can find public places to fish at on.IN.gov/where2fish. This year’s other Free Fishing Days are June 4-5 and Sept. 24. Learn more at on.IN.gov/fishfree.

When you visit a DNR destination on May 1, regardless of whether you fish, make sure to check in with an Indiana State Nature Passport. Doing so will launch your eligibility for winning prizes from DNR. The grand prize is a package that includes a 2022 State Parks Pass, a $50 gift card for camping, and a subscription to Outdoor Indiana magazine.

In addition, those who donate to the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation (on.IN.gov/nrfdonate) in May will earn a free check-in on their nature passport. 

DePauw University students raised $12,824 last week for United Way of Central Indiana during DePauw’s Little 5 cycling race.  

The school’s fraternities and sororities participated in a peer-to-peer fundraising campaign April 17-24 and competed in cycling events, including time trials, street sprints and criterium.  

Alpha Chi Omega was the top fundraising sorority with $3,894, and Fiji raised the most of the fraternities with $2,490.  

The top individual fundraisers: Meredith Sierpina with $2,700 and Nagisa Omi with $1,606.  

“Thank you to all the DePauw teams and riders who poured out into their community by raising funds for these meaningful programs,” said Chris Flegal, United Way’s community relations director for Putnam, Morgan and Hendricks counties. “I’m always amazed by how engaged and competitive students are – how invested they are in it.”  

This year, students raised nearly double the amount they collected in 2019, the first year DePauw students campaigned for United Way during the Little 5.  

More than 250 donors contributed to the campaign.  

"Little 5 is an age-old DePauw tradition that brings the campus and Greencastle together around a week of competition,” said DePauw senior Leah Smith, a rider for Alpha Phi. The sorority placed first in the bike race and second in fundraising with $1,447.

“I'm so happy that Little 5 was able to be back on campus after a few years off—not just to compete, but to help raise awareness and funds for the United Way's efforts to improve literacy initiatives within the community."

The funds will go toward United Way’s childhood literacy programs in Putnam County, including Real Men Read and ReadUP.  

Real Men Read sends positive male mentors into classrooms to read with kindergarteners across Putnam County. The program was launched seven years ago by a board member of United Way of Putnam County, which merged last year with United Way of Central Indiana.

Volunteers with the ReadUP program visit schools across the region to help third graders catch up on their reading skills. The program will expand to Putnam County next school year.

"Little 5 is an opportunity for racers and their organizations to give back to the community that supports them,” said DePauw senior Michael Aikin, Little 5 steering committee chair.  

“We as members of the Putnam County community have an obligation to support our fellow community members. That being said, our fundraising efforts can still be fun and exciting by competing to raise the most money for the community we love."

Two Indianapolis children were killed by a falling tree in Owen County on Saturday.

It happened at Indian Oaks Campground, 10201 Tower Rd, Quincy.   The brother and sister, ages 9 and 8, were riding in a golf cart with their parents. It appears strong winds caused a dead tree to fall.

The children were declared dead at the scene.  The parents were unhurt.

A trio of DePauw School of Music students has partnered with Beyond Homeless Incorporated for a night of music and awareness on homelessness in Putnam County.

Bobbie Lancaster, Derek Chastain, Gus Moon, Him & Her and the DePauw School of Music will join forces for the Beyond the Music benefit concert event, which is scheduled to be held Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. on the Square.

In addition to music, there will also be a raffle featuring various gift cards, sets of tickets to Indiana Beach and more.

According to Lea Durbin, executive director of Beyond Homeless Incorporated, homelessness in Putnam County is “either the worst kept secret or the best kept secret.”

“It is a night to bring the community together with music and a benefit to the shelter. We would love to pack the square and the streets. It will be goodwill donation, as we don’t want to keep anyone from coming in who wants to,” Durbin told Putnam County Post.

Homelessness is a growing epidemic in Putnam County, as well as requests for services, according to Durbin.

Durbin told the Putnam County Post that during the Point in Time Count of homelessness, Beyond Homeless Incorporated identified and engaged with 17 people who are not residents in shelters in Putnam County.

“There is a need. We have a total of 62 total people in the county that we have identified. We have a homeless prevention program, as well, where we provide assistance for families in need. In 2021 alone, we provided $39,000 assistance for rent, mortgage and electric. We average 58 requests a month for services, including emergency food boxes. The need is growing and it is a heartbreaking thing to think about. Without the support of the community, we couldn’t do what we need to do,” Durbin said.

Durbin added that during Covid, requests have gone up and down in cycles.

“When everything was locked down, we were deemed essential and could not close, and our capacity in our women’s shelter was at 22 out of 24 people. We dropped down to around 15 after that. Since then, we see an increase when there is a rise in positive cases. Some people have been off work for months, not been able to go back and we now have long-term effects of Covid that we are just now starting to see,” Durbin said.

For more information on the benefit or Beyond Homeless Incorporated, call 765-301-9263.

A 37-year-old woman from Greencastle was killed over the weekend in Florida.

According to a release by the Florida Highway Patrol, the woman, who has not been identified, was trying to cross International Drive at Sand Lake Road when she was struck by a 2001 Honda Civic while in a crosswalk. 

Police said the Honda Civic, which was driven by a 19-year-old male, had the greenlight and the victim failed to yield to the car. 

The Greencastle woman died from her injuries at Dr. Phillips Hospital, while the driver did not sustain any injuries.

The incident remains under investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol. 

A suspect fled ISP Putnamville troopers and rammed the trooper's car.

Around 1:15 pm Thursday,  Indiana State Police Putnamville Trooper Colton Maynor was patrolling Putnam County and spotted a speeder going more than 20 mph over the speed limit. Trooper Maynor pulled the driver over near County Road 600 east, where the driver attempted to exit the truck. The driver was ordered to stay put with hands on the steering where. However, as Trooper Maynor approached, the driver placed the truck in reverse and accelerated, ramming into Trooper Maynor’s commission and pushing it into US 40.  The truck then drove through a ditch, fleeing eastbound on US 40.

After a quick review of the damage to Trooper Maynor’s vehicle and determining it was drivable, Trooper Maynor pursued the truck at a reduced speed, keeping it in his sight.  Trooper David Cox, Jr., was in the immediate area and was able to catch up to the truck near US 40 and County Road 1000 East. 

The driver then turned off of US 40 onto County Road 1000 East and continued traveling on several county roads.  While attempting to turn from one county road to another, the driver lost control of the truck, spinning out of control and into a ditch, disabling the truck. Troopers Maynor and Cox, Jr., then conducted a felony traffic stop and were able to take the suspect into custody without incident.  

The suspect was positively identified as Matthew L. Renten, 35, of Green Cove Springs, Florida.  Further investigation discovered that Renten displayed signs of impairment. 

Renten was provided the opportunity to submit to a certified chemical test and those results are currently pending through the Indiana Department of Toxicology.  Upon being medically cleared at the Putnam County Hospital, Renten was arrested and taken to the Putnam County Jail where he is currently being held.  

Renten was charged with Resisting Law Enforcement, Felony 6;  Reckless Driving, Class A Misdemeanor;  Leaving the Scene of a Crash, Class B Misdemeanor

The Indiana State Department of Agriculture, Indiana Department of Homeland Security, Indiana Department of Transportation, Indiana State Police and Hoosier Ag Today want to remind all citizens of farming season. They want to encourage motorists to slow down and be patient as motorists will start to see more of the large, slow-moving farm equipment traveling Indiana’s rural roads and highways.

In Indiana, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2020 three vehicles were involved in crashes with farm equipment, which resulted in two deaths.

While the term “farm equipment” encompasses a wide range of vehicles, the most common types motorists will encounter during planting season include sprayers, tractors pulling planters or tillage equipment, and large trucks hauling agricultural products. These vehicles are wide, sometimes taking up most of the road, and often travel at speeds less than 25 mph.

Some safety tips for motorists approaching large farm equipment:

• Farmers will pull over when they are able to let motorists pass, but it may take time for them to get to a safe place to do so.
• Be patient. Farm equipment is wide, sometimes taking up most of the road.
• Be careful when passing. Do not pass in a designated “No Passing Zone” or within 100 feet of any intersection, railroad grade crossing, bridge, elevation structure or tunnel.
• Do not try to pass slow-moving farm equipment on the left without ensuring that the farmer driving is not planning a left turn. It may appear that the driver is pulling over to allow a pass when the farmer is actually preparing to turn. You will drive right into its path, endangering yourself and the farmer.
• Avoid tailgating, as some farm equipment might have to make sudden stops along the road.
• Allow plenty of time to get to a destination, be aware of alternate routes and avoid distractions.

Indiana State Department of Agriculture Director Bruce Kettler wants to remind motorists that farmers work hard to ensure they are being as safe as possible.

“Hoosier farmers are trying to get to their fields safely and quickly, just like our Hoosier motorists are trying to get to work safely and quickly,” said Kettler. “I want to encourage motorists to be aware during this spring season and know that encountering farm equipment is likely and to slow down when approaching.”

For a list of safety tips, click here or visit isda.in.gov. The following organizations will be working together to share this important safety message during planting season: Hoosier Ag Today, Indiana Department of Homeland Security, Indiana Department of Transportation and Indiana State Police.

Indiana Secretary of State Holli Sullivan is reminding Hoosiers that today, Thursday, April 21, is the final day for a circuit court clerk to receive an absentee ballot application from an applicant requesting delivery of an absentee ballot by mail.

The application to request a mail-in ballot must be received no later than 11:59 p.m., 12 days before the election. Applications may be submitted to the circuit court clerk in person or by mail, fax, email, or online through the Indiana Voter Portal at IndianaVoters.com.

New this year, Hoosiers with print disabilities can visit IndianaVoters.com to request a ballot that allows the use of personal assistive technology devices to vote. 

Putnam County and Fillmore will receive a combined total of more than $1.2 million in state matching grants for road and bridge improvement projects, according to State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle).

In total, more than 220 towns, cities and counties will receive over $107 million in state funding through the Community Crossings Matching Grant Program. Funds, awarded twice a year, are for road and bridge preservation, road reconstruction, intersection improvements, guardrail replacements and signage, and can cover material costs for chip sealing and crack filling operations.

"Community Crossings is a prime example of what can be accomplished when state and local government work together," said Baird, a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. "These partnerships have helped revitalize so many parts of Indiana, and will continue to do so for years to come."**

Area grant recipients include Putnam County $1 million and Fillmore $227,394.

As part of the grant program, smaller municipalities provide a 25 percent match in local funds, while large communities provide a 50 percent match. State law requires 50 percent of the available matching funds be awarded annually to communities within counties with a population of 50,000 or fewer. To date, Hoosier communities are on the receiving end of more than $1 billion in Community Crossings Matching Grants.

According to the Indiana Department of Transportation, which oversees and awards the grants, the next call for projects is expected in July.

Gov. Eric J. Holcomb and Indiana Department of Natural Resources Director Dan Bortner Wednesday announced 38 communities and non-profit organizations will receive a combined $65 million for 77 miles of new trail development as a part of the third round of the Next Level Trails program.

With matching funds from applicants, this round is expected to generate total investment of more than $102 million.

The City of Greencastle was awarded $2,003,572 for 2.39 miles of the National Road Heritage Trail.  The project will fill a 2-mile gap in the statewide National Road Heritage Trail in the City of Greencastle, as well as pave an existing 0.85-mile stretch of an existing gravel section of the trail and improve an existing trailhead. The project connects to trail networks within the city.

Key partners include National Road Heritage Trail, Inc and People’s Pathways of Putnam County.

“Trails connect communities together in such a personal way and are perfect pathways to good mental and physical well-being,” Gov. Holcomb said. “These continued quality-of-life investments will reap generational economic and tourism development dividends and further showcase Indiana’s incredible outdoor experiences.” 

A $150 million grant program, Next Level Trails is the largest infusion of trails funding in state history. In rounds one and two, a total of $55 million was awarded to 35 communities. To date, $120 million has been awarded to build 190 miles of trails throughout Indiana. Ninety-four percent of Hoosiers live within five miles of a trail. 

For example, three sections of the Nickel Plate Trail in Indianapolis, Fishers, and Noblesville were selected, as well as smaller local projects in Jasper, Middlebury, Shelbyville, and Huntington.

“The DNR listens to the recreational and outdoor needs of Hoosiers,” Bortner said. “We are excited to expand our partnerships with local governments and non-profits to bring these important connections and amenities to communities across Indiana.”

The grants awarded in the third round include 17 regional projects and 21 local projects. The list of awards, project descriptions, and a map are posted at on.IN.gov/NLT-round-3.

The third-round grant recipients are contributing $37.4 million in matching value, resulting in a $102.4 million total investment in trails. The program requires a minimum 20 percent project match, which can include monetary contributions, land value, and in-kind donations of materials and labor.

Next Level Trails is part of Gov. Holcomb's $1 billion Next Level Connections infrastructure program, which accelerates the completion of major highway projects, expands access to rural broadband services, and pursues the expansion of rail projects in northwest Indiana. The initial program received funds totaling $90 million; $60 million more was appropriated in the current biennial budget to bring the Next Level Trails investment to $150 million. 

The Indiana State Capitol Police has concluded its investigation into the vandalism which occurred inside the Indiana Statehouse on Sunday, March 27, 2022, in which four juveniles were identified as the alleged perpetrators of the incident.

Detective Charles Meneely’s investigation has revealed that at approximately 3:45 pm, Indiana State Capitol Police Officer Wiley Mimms had entered the Statehouse through the north doors when he heard multiple voices coming from the area of the Rotunda.  As he approached that area and began to communicate to his dispatch via radio, he heard people running towards, and then out of the west door.

While giving chase on foot, Mimms noted the description of the three girls and one boy.  He was eventually able to find them walking along Indiana Avenue just south of Michigan Street where they were detained and later released to responsible adults.

The four, a boy (13 years of age), and three girls (12, 13 and 14 years of age) all from Indianapolis had entered the Statehouse through the west door on the second level at approximately 1:54 p.m.  They damaged the door to the point where they were able to open it and enter the building, which was closed to the public at the time.

Once inside, the juveniles allegedly vandalized the Indiana House of Representatives Chambers on the third floor with graffiti, damaged several electronic items and personal property of other persons at this location.  They threw a wooden bench from the third floor Rotunda railing which shattered on the second floor, vandalized the Statehouse Tour Desk on the second floor, damaged a sculpture at the Statehouse Tour Desk, and tampered with an art display on the second floor.  Additional damaged property included miniature national flags and miniature state flags on display on the desktops of the Indiana State Representatives assigned desk space inside the House Chambers.  Initial estimate of the damage is in excess of $17,000.

During this investigation, the four juveniles were interviewed by Meneely in the presence of their parents.

Detective Meneely has submitted his investigation to the Marion County Prosecutor Juvenile Division for review and to request the following charges:

• 12-year-old female
  • Institutional Criminal Mischief, Criminal Trespass, Theft and Resisting Law Enforcement
• 13-year-old female
  • Institutional Criminal Mischief, Criminal Trespass, Resisting Law Enforcement and Flag Desecration
• 14-year-old female
  • Institutional Criminal Mischief, Criminal Trespass, Theft and Resisting Law Enforcement
• 13-year-old-male
  • Institutional Criminal Mischief, Criminal Trespass, Theft and Resisting Law Enforcement

Final charges will be determined by the Marion County Prosecutor Juvenile Division.

The Republican candidates for Putnam County Sheriff talked with Johnny McCrory Tuesday on GIANT fm WREB.

Steve Hibler

Jerrod Baugh

Dwight Simmons

The Greencastle Kroger store, 821 Indianapolis Rd, generously hosted the Hartman Center for Civic Engagement at DePauw University and Purdue Extension-Putnam County, in coordination with the Putnam County Pantry Coalition, as they put on their second Supermarket Sweep on Monday, April 18.

While the public was able to take part by shopping for items on the list throughout the day, it was really the youth who enjoyed the competitive philanthropy event. First up were teams from the local Putnam County 4H clubs. They held competitions prior to the Sweeps event to win gift cards they could use to shop for the event. The winning team gets a pizza party.

Later in the evening, several DePauw groups, fraternities, and sororities joined the competition. They signed in as teams, competing against each other to donate the most. While racing to fill the shopping list the fastest, they also competed in challenges throughout the store, earning more money to put toward their total donation.

Food pantries connected with the Putnam County Pantry Coalition will benefit from all donations received; which include Hope and Love Pantry (Bainbridge), Two Fish Food Pantry and Faith (Bainbridge), Gleaners Mobile Food Pantry efforts in Bainbridge, Gleaners Mobile Food Pantry efforts in Cloverdale, St. Andrew’s Non-Food Pantry (Greencastle), Greencastle Christian Church (Greencastle), New Life Baptist Church, (Greencastle), Grace Tabernacle (Greencastle), Roachdale Christian Church (Roachdale), and Russellville Community Church (Russellville).

As of April 19, 2022, the total number of donations has reached $7,100; however, not all donations have been tallied yet.

A Putnam County agency has received a grant for survivors of family violence and sexual assault.

The Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) has awarded 46 nonprofits a total of nearly $3.5 million in federal grants to improve services for survivors of family violence and sexual assault. These grants were awarded through the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA) program with American Rescue Plan funds.

Putnam County Family Support Services received $54,810.

“With this funding, we will be helping organizations provide critical care support to individuals who may be trying to escape from an abusive situation or were just victimized,” said Devon McDonald, ICJI Executive Director. “

Administered by ICJI, the FVPSA program is the primary federal funding stream dedicated to the support of emergency shelter and related assistance for victims of domestic violence and their dependents.

Last year, ICJI received supplemental funding through the American Rescue Plan to offer two new grants under FVPSA – one specifically designed to support survivors of sexual assault. Altogether, both grants are intended to help organizations offset certain costs associated with providing these critical services during the pandemic.

Funding will be used for the purchasing of technology to provide remote services, testing kits and cleaning supplies, employee retention and hiring, emergency preparedness, safety planning and more.

“The pandemic has changed how services are provided to victims,” said Kim Lambert, ICJI Victim Services Director. “Many organizations are now offering virtual care options, on top of maintaining a certain base level of in-person support. This funding will help ensure a continuity of services by covering some of those pandemic-related expenses.”

The grants were approved by the ICJI Board of Trustees in March and will be made available to organizations starting within the next couple of weeks.

From athletic equipment to on-scene lights for first responders to computer upgrades the Putnam County Community Foundation's most recent grant recipients have many ways to use the funds.

The funds originate from the Community Foundation’s largest unrestricted fund, the Community Grants Endowment.  Nearly $55, 000 dollars was distributed to eight recipients including:

Purdue Extension Putnam County: Support for Grow a Healthy Diet Program

Greencastle High School: Provide baseball safety equipment

Greencastle/Putnam County Development Center: Support of Leadership Academy

Dusk-to-Dawn Bereavement Services: Provide bereavement services in Putnam County

Putnam County Playhouse: Upgrade lighting instruments with LED instruments

Russellville Volunteer Fire Department: Upgrade scene lighting system

Greencastle Police Department: Upgrade computers

Hoosiers Feeding the Hungry, Inc.: Provide meat to area food pantries

“The Grants Committee strives to make grants in a wide array of areas which impact the health,  safety, and livability of Putnam County,” said Dean Gambill, Community Development Director. “This cycle of grants does just that.”

Around 3:40 pm on Thursday, a report of a shooting at the Putnam County Courthouse came into the 911 call center and the Greencastle Police Department was quick to respond.

DePauw issued a RAVE alert to notice to faculty, staff, and students announcing a suspicious person near or around the Putnam County Courthouse.  Faculty, staff, and students were advised to avoid the area.

Armed officers searched the area, and then a report was made about the 1000 block of Shadowlawn Avenue. Shortly after, an officer stated a male suspect was in custody.

Reports now suggest there was no gunfire, but rocks had been thrown. A window on the north side of the building has been busted. However, no other details are known as the investigation is ongoing.

DePauw has released a notice to faculty, staff, and students announcing a suspicious person near or around the Putnam County Court House.  Faculty, staff, and students were advised to avoid the area.

A suspect is in custody. The investigation is ongoing. 

As the Indiana State Fair revs up for 2022, it will dedicate the theme for this year’s event to Celebrating Indiana’s Automotive Excellence, presented by Tom Wood Automotive Group.

The 165th Indiana State Fair will take place Friday, July 29 through Sunday, August 21 and will continue its long tradition as Indiana’s favorite all-encompassing summer destination event. 

Each spring the unveiling of the Indiana State Fair’s annual theme is one of its most anticipated announcements.   

“For 2022, we are planning something very special, a monumental year to bring Hoosiers back together at this beloved summer tradition,” said Cindy Hoye, Indiana State Fair Commission Executive Director. “We are so thankful to the Tom Wood Automotive Group for embracing this theme and partnership – we are putting the pedal to the metal and building momentum to get ready for FUN at the speed of summer!”  

Indiana’s rich automotive tradition is a signature source of pride for Hoosiers, and the Indiana State Fair looks forward to celebrating Indiana’s worldwide recognition for its automotive history and contributions to the industry. Fairgoers can expect to see iconic, celebrity cars from movies and books, in addition to world-class classic car collections showcasing Indiana-made vehicles, and so much more. 

“We are proud to sponsor this year’s Indiana State Fair – “Fun at the speed of summer,” said Jeff Wood, President of the Tom Wood Group. “We’ve been family-owned and locally operated serving Hoosiers since 1967. We are honored to share in the celebration of Indiana’s Automotive Excellence highlighting the rich history and traditions of the automobile.  It supports our motto of family, service and community.” 

The Indiana State Fair is planning to bring back fairgoer favorites including carnival rides, fun and wacky fair food, 4-H competitions, free entertainment, and much more. Stay tuned for new spectacular experiences and announcements in the coming weeks. 

For complete details and tickets to the 2022 Indiana State Fair, please visit: https://www.indianastatefair.com. 

Governor Eric J. Holcomb announced today that Hoosiers should expect to begin receiving their promised $125 Automatic Taxpayer Refund in the coming weeks, resulting in a 12 percent cut in the average Hoosier’s annual income tax liability.

“I’m beyond thrilled that this spring and summer we are returning money back into the hands of Hoosier taxpayers, where it belongs,” Gov. Holcomb said. “Our conservative fiscal leadership and pro-growth policies makes this tax refund possible for all Hoosier households.”

The Governor first announced in December that an estimated 4.3 million taxpayers will receive a $125 refund after they file their 2021 taxes. An estimated $545 million will be returned to Hoosiers. After the tax-filing deadline passes on April 18, the Department of Revenue in conjunction with the Auditor of State’s Office will begin issuing the refunds via direct deposit or by mailing a paper check.

Refunds will begin in May through direct deposit for residents who have filed their income taxes and provided their banking information on their return. Direct deposits are expected to continue through July.

Paper checks will be issued beginning in late July and continue through August, with the goal of completing the refund statewide by Sept. 1.

Residents do not need to take any action to receive the refund. The refund is in addition to and separate from any refund Hoosiers may receive after filing their 2021 state income tax returns.

Hoosiers can visit the Department of Revenue website for information about when to expect to receive the direct deposit or paper check.

Due to a water main break, all South Putnam Schools will be on E-Learning April 13, 2022. 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) continues to provide financial assistance for individuals who incurred COVID-19 related funeral expenses for loved ones.

Since launching the program on April 1, 2021, FEMA has provided more than $2.1 billion in COVID-19 funeral assistance to eligible applicants across the country, but assistance is still available for those who qualify.

"This program was created to address the unique financial challenges faced by our nation caused by the pandemic that has taken the lives of nearly a million loved ones, friends and neighbors across the country,” said Thomas C. Sivak, FEMA Region 5 administrator. “While we cannot bring those people back, this financial assistance can help ease the burden of their final arrangements.”

Eligible applicants may qualify for up to $9,000 for each deceased individual per application, with a maximum of $35,000 for families who may have multiple funeral expenses due to COVID-19. Since the assistance began on April 12, 2021, the average amount of assistance awarded is $6,500.

Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EDT, Monday through Friday. Multilingual services are available. Please note, phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Applicants who use a relay service, such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, should provide FEMA with the specific number assigned to them for that service so that agency representatives are able to contact them.

Additional information about COVID-19 funeral assistance, including frequently asked questions, is available on FEMA.gov.

Property tax owners in Putnam County - you're 2021 payable 2022 tax statements have been mailed.

Putnam County Treasurer Kathy Minnick announced the mailing via the office's Facebook page.  Due to a material shortage by the manufacturer, the tax bills will not be in pink envelopes this year.

The spring installment is due Tuesday, May 10, and the fall installment is due Thursday, November 10, 2022. If you do not receive your bill, you can request a duplicate by contacting the Putnam County Treasurer’s Office via phone 765-653-4510 or e-mail treasurer.putnamcountyin@gmail.com.

Failure to receive a statement will not relieve you of paying taxes and/or penalties that may be due.

Taxes may be paid at any of the following banks located in Putnam County: First Financial, First National, Old National, North Salem State, Teachers Credit Union, or Tri-County. You must bring your tax statement if you want to pay at the bank. The banks will not accept a payment after the due dates.

Taxes may also be paid online at https://enoticesonline.com/put, https://www.govtechtaxpro.com/parceldetail.php , at the Putnam County Treasurer’s Office, at the drop box located on the east side of the courthouse.

They can also be paid by mail by sending to PO Box 508, Greencastle, IN 46135. To ensure a penalty is not added, the envelope must be postmarked on or before the due date.

The Putnam County Treasurer’s Office will accept cash, check, money order, or credit/debit cards.

It's back!!  After a hiatus from the pandemic, Mental Health America gladly announces the return of their "Don't Dodge the Issues" Dodgeball event!  With spectators free, a marvelous silent auction, concessions, and a Mental Health Fair, this public gathering is sure to entertain and inform the whole family.  There will be tables available from Mental Health Providers with information and materials available.

Kicking off Mental Health Awareness Month which starts the next day (May), doors open April 30, at 11:30 a.m. and the Dodgeball Tournament begins at 1 p.m. at Deer Meadow Primary School (1000 Deer Field Dr, Greencastle).  Several teams have already committed so sign up your team or join in to watch the fun and support a great cause!  All proceeds stay within Putnam County and benefit efforts in promoting community-wide mental health and MHAoPC (Mental Health America of Putnam County) programs.  

To register a team or for rules, regulations and entry fees, visit GetMeRegistered.com/ddidodgeballtournament, or to find out more about the event or MHAoPC, call 765-653-3310, email info@mhaopc.org, visit our Facebook page at fb.me/mhaopcindiana and follow us on Instagram at _mhaopc_.

Photo caption (credit Karen Martoglio):  These spirited members of Mental Health America of Putnam County hold the Dodgeballs to be used in MHAoPC’s reboot of their “Don’t Dodge the Issues” Dodgeball tournament and Mental Health Awareness event April 30th. Pictured here are Joanna Muncie (Special Liaison, Deer Meadow Primary School and MHAoPC Board member), Erin Flick (Counselor Cummins Behavioral Health Systems and MHAoPC board member) and Karen Martoglio (MHAoPC Executive Director)

Putnam County's candidates for Sheriff addressed questions from a panel comprised of WGRE - DePauw, the Greencastle League of Women Voters and the Banner Graphic.

Jerrod Baugh, Steve Hibler and Dwight Simmons offered opening statements followed by the panel's questions Thursday at Depauw.

The Hendricks County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the disappearance of Christopher Steadmon, a 26 year old black male, 5 feet 11 inches tall, 157 pounds, black hair with brown eyes, last seen wearing a black jacket, khaki pants, and white tennis shoes.

Christopher is missing from Camby, and was last seen on Saturday April 9, 2022 at 9:00 am.  He is believed to be in extreme danger and may require medical assistance. 

If you have any information on Christopher Steadmon, contact the Hendricks County Sheriff’s Department at 317-839-8700 or 911.

Putnam County officials have earmarked projects to receive funds from the American Rescue Plan Act, federal monies that went to local governments out of the Covid pandemic.

In all, Putnam County will receive nearly $7.3 million.  Of that, so far, $2.5 million will go to the South 43 Water Corporation with $2 million for another water project with Reelsville Water Corporation.  Also, Russellville will use $200, 000 for a new water tower.

Over a half-million is set to go to Clear Creek Conservancy / Heritage Lake to upgrade sewer facilities.

Putnam County Council President Dave Fuhrman says federal government guidelines for dealing with the money have shifted before and that makes it more challenging.

Fuhrman feels confident that larger infrastructure projects such as those mentioned will fit within the guidelines set by the federal government.  But, those have shifted before.  The guidelines as they pertain to some of the other monies, remain a little fuzzier.  And that makes the work of county officials more difficult.

And Fuhrman notes that Putnam County still has funds to arrange from the state’s READI program.

Back to ARPA, allocations have also been initially set for:

$150, 000

Beyond Homeless                 

men’s and women’s shelters in the county

Over $420, 000          

Putnam Co. Health Dept       

mobile vaccination unit 

$240, 000                   

Premium pay for county essential workers during the pandemic

Absentee, or early, voting for the May 3, 2022 Primary Election began Tuesday, April 5, and will continue unit 12:00 PM (noon) on Monday 2.

Any Putnam County voter, who was registered in advance (by April 4, 2022), may vote early on the second floor of the Putnam County Courthouse from 8:00 AM to 4:00PM Monday through Friday. The courthouse and vote center at the Bainbridge Community Venter will also be open for absentee (early) voting from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Saturday, April 23, 2022 and Saturday, April 30, 2022. Voters must provide a government-issued photo ID before casting a ballot in-person at the clerk’s office or at the polls on Election Day. The ID must fit the following criteria:

• Your ID must display your photo.
• Your name on the ID must conform with your voter registration record. (Conform does not mean identical)
• Your ID must contain an expiration date and either still be current or have expired sometime after November 3, 2022 (the last General Election day).
• Your ID must be issued by the State of Indiana or the US Government.

Any person requiring an absentee ballot to be mailed to them in-county, out-of-county, or out-of-state must complete an application for an absentee ballot. Forms are available at the voter registration office (on the second floor in the courthouse) or may be downloaded from the Indiana Election Division website, www.in.gov/sos/elections, and must be filed before the ballot can be mailed. The deadline to receive an application for an absentee ballot to be mailed is midnight April 21, 2022.

For those individuals confined to their homes due to illness, injury, or a handicap, a request may be made that the ballot be brought to their home by a traveling boar or you may choose to have a ballot mailed to you by filling out the application for an absentee ballot.

A voter wishing to vote by mail or traveling board does not have to comply with the photo ID law. To request an absentee ballot application please contact voter registration at 765-655-1538.

Applications opened Monday for Putnam County nonprofits interested in receiving grant funding from United Way of Central Indiana. 

During this grant cycle, United Way will award $50,000 in funding to organizations headquartered in Putnam County and serving residents there who are in poverty or are considered ALICE, meaning they earn above the Federal Poverty Level but not enough to afford a basic household budget. (ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed.)  

A committee of Putnam County stakeholders will review applications and select grant recipients. The unrestricted grants will be awarded in the range of $5,000 to $20,000 and will be distributed by mid-June.  

Interested nonprofits can learn more about the criteria and process and apply online at uwci.org/putnam. The deadline to submit applications is April 22.  

Organizations that receive grant funding will be announced May 16.  

Main Street Greencastle has been announced as a recognized Indiana Main Street Program.

Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch and the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs today announced 11 organizations have been designated as recognized Indiana Main Street programs.

The Indiana Main Street program encourages community-driven revitalization of downtown areas in Hoosier cities and towns.

The IMS program accepts applications for three levels: 

• Nationally Accredited Main Street:?A NAMS community meets all of the Accreditation Standards set forth by Main Street America.
• Indiana Accredited Main Street: An IAMS community meets 8/10 Accreditation Standards set forth by Main Street America, but may lack a paid professional program manager.
• OCRA's Downtown Affiliate Network: An ODAN community can include organizations that prefer to specialize in event-related activities only or lack the physical or historical capacity required to qualify as a Main Street organization.

Main Street Greencastle has been recognized as an Indiana Accredited Main Street.

“The Indiana Main Street program continues to be a strong partner of downtowns throughout our great state,” Crouch said. “It sparks economic growth by expanding businesses, creating jobs and attracting private and public investments. Congratulations to each community and local Main Street program for attaining these designations, and for their commitment to revitalizing and enhancing their community’s unique heritage and features.”

The incoming programs include the following communities:

“Congratulations to these 11 communities on earning an Indiana Main Street designation,” said OCRA Executive Director Denny Spinner. “Since 1985, the Indiana Main Street program has been instrumental in providing resources to cities and towns to advance their downtown economic development. I look forward to seeing what these communities accomplish in the future.”

A local program’s performance is evaluated by Indiana Main Street, which works in partnership with Main Street America to identify organizations that meet rigorous performance standards.  

The 11 programs will be provided a formal certificate, access to Main Street America and Indiana Main Street trainings, networking opportunities with other regional and statewide programs, and a resource toolbox unique to their needs. 

To learn more about the Indiana Main Street program, visit in.gov/ocra/mainstreet.

Greencastle now has two NaloxBoxes.

The newest box is located at Robe Ann Park in Greencastle, near the entrance, at the main park storage building. The box was officially installed Thursday, March 31.

After Sheila Holloway and the Putnam County Recovery Coalition worked to get the first box installed at the Putnam County Public Library, they continued their efforts and successfully installed the second one at Robe Ann. The coalition still plans on installing another NaloxBox in Cloverdale, although that time has not been scheduled yet.

Naloxone, also referred to as Narcan, is a medication that can reverse an overdose by opioids and even prescription medications. It works by blocking the toxic effects of the overdose when given to a person showing signs of overdosing. In many cases, it is the difference between life and death.

The boxes are provided at no cost to the host and each unit will contain six to eight doses of naloxone, instructions for use, and treatment referral cards. Steps to use the medication are described as easy to understand and follow. However, educational seminar times and locations are currently being discussed. Educational seminars would include information on how to administer the medication, but also the signs to look for in case of an overdose.

A resurfacing project in Putnam County on U.S. 36 will begin on or after Wednesday, April 6.

The project spans from just east of U.S. 231 through Bainbridge to the east town limits. The contractor will be flagging motorists around construction.

This is scheduled to be completed in late July, weather permitting.

The Indiana Department of Transportation announces State Road 236 will close Thursday, April 21 between U.S. 231 and Rush St. in Roachdale.

This section is scheduled to be completed by late July. Access will be maintained for homes and businesses.

The official detour follows U.S. 231 to U.S. 36 to S.R. 75 and back.

This project was awarded to Milestone Contractors L.P. for $9.1 million. This project will complete a cold in-place recycle and spans from U.S. 231 to just west of S.R. 75. The section from east of Roachdale to the Hendricks/Putnam County line was completed last year. The portion through the town of Roachdale is nearly complete. Some short term asphalt paving work through town will be completed under flagging as part of this construction phase.

INDOT describes the cold in-place recycle treatment, a type of resurface similar to a full-depth reclamation, as an environmentally friendly method of removing and reusing the existing asphalt surface. It involves grinding off the top 2 to 5 inches of asphalt surface and mixing the crushed asphalt with an asphalt recycling agent, and placing git back down with a paver. INDOT says it results in a much stronger, stable base for the new road. It also results in less hauling away of materials.

Indiana Secretary of State Holli Sullivan reminds Hoosiers that today, Tuesday, April 5 is the first day of in-person absentee voting in Indiana for the 2022 Primary Election.

“Today is the beginning of primary election season,” Secretary Sullivan said. “Over the next 28 days Hoosiers can vote early, in-person before Primary Election Day. I encourage every registered voter to take advantage of the early-voting window and cast their ballot at a time that is convenient for them. Indiana continues to lead the way when it comes to conducting accessible elections.”

Voting absentee in-person is open from April 5, 2022, to May 2, 2022. All registered Indiana voters are eligible to vote absentee in-person. Voters who choose to vote by mail may request an absentee ballot online at www.indianavoters.com or from their county clerk’s office.

Request for absentee ballots by mail must be delivered by April 21.

In Putnam County, voters qualified to vote in the May 3 Primary Election may vote in advance on the 2nd floor of the Putnam County Courthouse from Tuesday, April 5, through Monday 12:00 pm, May 2. Hours will be 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The Putnam County Courthouse and the Bainbridge Vote Center at 201 N Grant Ave. will be open for early voting from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 23, and Saturday, April 30.

If a voter needs to have a ballot mailed to them or needs to request the Travel Team come to their home and assist them with voting they should call the Voter Registration office at 765-655-1538.

Military families are encouraged to remind those serving overseas to request an absentee ballot in advance of the deadline.

More than half of Indiana counties now offer vote centers, which allow voters to cast a ballot at any polling location in their county.

Hoosier voters can go to www.indianavoters.com to view a sample ballot and check their voting locations and hours for early voting. A valid photo ID is required to vote absentee in-person. 

Duke Energy is awarding nearly $120,000 in strategic grants to 26 economic development groups to spur new jobs and investment across Indiana.

Among area agencies receiving grants:

• Accelerate West Central Indiana Economic Development -- $5,000
• Greencastle/Putnam County Development Center -- $5,000
• Owen County Chamber & Economic Development Corporation -- $1,745

The funding is through Duke Energy’s Partnership Program, which supports organizations that increase awareness of a community or region’s economic development strategies and product availability. This may include tours and special events to promote business sites and communities; marketing campaigns and promotional materials; and website development and updates.

Since the program was established in 2017, Duke Energy has contributed nearly $600,000 in grant funding to organizations that are helping create vibrant economies in Indiana.

To qualify for program consideration, each applicant submitted a plan that would have a direct impact on their community’s economic growth. These awards help local and regional economic development organizations fund marketing and strategic efforts in the communities they serve. Amounts varied depending on the size and scope of the project.

At the Indiana Statehouse, Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch and Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) Director Bruce Kettler presented 69 families with a Hoosier Homestead Award in recognition of their commitment to Indiana agriculture.

“I always look forward to engaging with Indiana’s historic farming families during the Hoosier Homestead Award ceremonies,” Crouch said. “The longstanding values, dedication and resiliency of these families will ensure their farm and family’s legacy live on for many generations.”

To be named a Hoosier Homestead, farms must be owned by the same family for more than 100 consecutive years, and consist of more than 20 acres. If less than 20 acres, the farm must produce more than $1,000 of agricultural products per year. Indiana farms may qualify for three honors: Centennial Award for 100 years of ownership, Sesquicentennial Award for 150 years of ownership and the Bicentennial Award for 200 years of ownership.

Friday, the department awarded three farms for bicentennial ownership. They are the Williams farm from Madison County (est. 1822), the Hartman farm from Parke County (est. 1822) and the Arnold farm from Rush County (est. 1821). 

Since the program's inception in 1976, nearly 6,000 families have received the Hoosier Homestead Award. Many past awardees can be identified by the sign proudly displayed in front of the family farm or field.

“It is hard to put into words the value these farming families have provided to their communities, our state and the Indiana agricultural industry since the formation of their farms,” Kettler said. “It is my utmost pleasure to honor these longstanding families for their dedication to providing the feed, food and fuel necessary to sustain our state.”