Local News

INDOT to hold public meeting on July 6 in Roachdale

The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) will host a public information meeting on July 6, 2022 at 5:30 pm at the Roachdale Baptist Church (located at 101 East Street, Roachdale, IN).

 

This meeting will provide an overview of the construction project underway on State Road 236. This will include discussion of the upcoming road closures due to the construction project.

Greencastle Parks and Recreation dedicating Ballard Family Park Saturday, July 2

On Saturday, July 2, 2022 at 3:00pm, The Greencastle Parks and Recreation Department will be dedicating the Walter and Eleanor Ballard Family Park. The Ballard family donated a 1.2-acre tract of land adjacent to the People Pathways section that passes in front of the Greencastle Walmart Supercenter. 

 

The Ballard Family home stood on this property until it was moved south to the property along Ballard Lane, near the Putnam County Airport.

 

In representing the Ballard family, including Phil Ballard and Sara Ballard Niles, Marilynn Sturgeon asked the site be named the Walter and Eleanor Ballard Family Park. Walter Ballard served as Mayor of Greencastle during World War II.

 

The family has also asked that a plaque be placed at the site to honor the original owner of the property, Dr. Stevenson.  


Hendricks Regional Health and Hancock Health announced collaboration with a world healthcare leader, Mayo Clinic

Hancock Health, Hendricks Regional Health, and the Mayo Clinic announced on Wednesday, that the two Indiana health systems have joined the Mayo Clinic Care Network. Members of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, a group of carefully vetted, independent health care organizations, have special access to Mayo Clinic's knowledge and expertise.

 

Hancock Health and Hendricks Regional Health have a shared vision to provide central Indiana with excellent health care and keep communities healthy — all while remaining independent.

 

"Hancock Health has invested heavily in bringing medical expertise to east-central Indiana, creating attractive and convenient access points in our patients' hometowns — all while establishing solid bonds with our tertiary partners to ensure every level of care is within reach," says Steve Long, president and CEO of Hancock Health. "In the future, this relationship with Mayo Clinic will allow our care teams meaningful and timely access to some of the best medical specialists in the world. In my estimation, there is no better combination than a trusted local physician working in concert with their counterparts at Mayo Clinic to provide the very best care close to home."

 

"As Hendricks Regional Health joins forces with Mayo Clinic, we celebrate this milestone that builds upon a 60-year legacy and commitment to our community, and the relentless dedication of our nationally recognized physicians and associates," says Kevin Speer, J.D., president and CEO of Hendricks Regional Health. "It's the next step in preserving, growing and innovating local access to the most patient-focused, highest quality, specialized care possible. At a time when health care affordability has never been more important to Hoosiers, this collaboration is a shining example of how we are expanding world-class medicine in west-central Indiana at no additional cost for patients."

Dust Bowl 100 returns

Indiana’s premier gravel bicycle race, the Dust Bowl 100 presented by Lithko Contracting, is returning to Putnam County roads on Saturday, July 23, 2022! After welcoming 400 riders from 18 different states in 2021, this year’s race is sold out at 600 riders representing 21 states!

 

While the race starts and ends at Eminence High School, 95% of the route is on Putnam County roads. Three race distances – 100 miles, 80 miles, and 44 miles - are offered to cater to a wide range of cyclists of all abilities. Riders will get to experience some of the best gravel roads that west-central Indiana has to offer and will also pass a number of Putnam County attractions on route, including:

  • Vandalia Trail
  • Pine Bluff and Rolling Stone covered bridges
  • McCoy Road and Hibbs Ford metal bridges
  • Big Walnut Sports Park
  • Putnam Park Road Course
  • Historic Union Valley Baptist Church and Bethel Baptist Church

 

The routes will travel directly through Fillmore, Groveland, and Mount Meridian, while also passing closely by Coatesville, Bainbridge, Greencastle, and Belle Union. Residents are encouraged to use extra caution when driving on race day, especially when encountering cyclists on the road.

 

The Dust Bowl 100 aims to expand youth cycling opportunities in Indiana while also supporting local organizations. In 2021, the Dust Bowl 100 gave back to the local community through the following initiatives:

  • Donating 6 bicycles that were awarded to Eminence students that demonstrated positive behavior and student growth during the academic year
  • Funded 4 full student scholarships for the 2021 Indiana Interscholastic Cycling League season
  • Contributed over 1,500 food items to the Eminence Christian Church food pantry

 

A number of volunteer opportunities are still available, so anybody that would like to play a role in making this national level event a success is encouraged to visit www.dustbowl100.com/volunteer. All volunteers will receive a Dust Bowl 100 event t-shirt and free breakfast (donuts and coffee), lunch (BBQ), and shaved ice. A monetary donation will also be made to any school organization, civic group, or church group that provides more than 10 volunteer hours for the event.

 

More information on the Dust Bowl 100, including the race routes, can be found at www.dustbowl100.com.

 


Duke Energy upgrades underground power lines to improve service in Greencastle

Duke Energy is strengthening part of its electric grid in Greencastle to improve reliability and reduce power outages.

 

Crews are working to replace more than 1,300 feet of underground power lines along Washington Street between Percy L. Julian Drive and Hammond Street, near Greencastle High School. The new underground power lines will be more reliable and reduce the risk of prolonged power outages for homes and businesses in the area in the future.

 

Work on the project will begin in July and is expected to conclude by the end of September. Customers may see large electric utility equipment in the area, including utility trucks and digging and boring equipment.

 

“This important work is part of a smart, multi-layered energy grid improvement strategy to help improve electric reliability and strengthen the electric grid against severe weather and other impacts,” said Duke Energy government and community relations manager Rick Burger. “Making the right investments today means that the energy grid customers and their families depend on will be more reliable and more responsive in the future.”

Putnam County Hospital and the Putnam County Health Department closing down COVID-19 testing clinic

Putnam County Hospital and the Putnam County Health Department announced that Tuesday, June 28, will be the last day of the COVID-19 testing clinic. 

 

The Putnam County Health Department has free take home tests that will be available. 

 

“The availability of at home kits as well as expanded supply available for healthcare providers has greatly improved access to COVID-19 testing,” said Adam Amos. “The Putnam County Health Department would like to take this opportunity to thank the Putnam County Hospital for their tireless efforts and partnership on our community testing site over the last 18 months.”

 

Primary care offices will also be able to test patients at their offices.  If you are having COVID-19 symptoms please contact your healthcare provider.

 

PCH and PCHD offer these tips to prevent the spread of any illness:

  • Avoid close contact. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick, too.
  • Stay home when you are sick. If possible, stay home from work, school and errands when you are sick. This will help prevent you from spreading your illness to others.
  • Cover your mouth and nose. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Flu and other serious respiratory illnesses are spread by cough, sneezing or unclean hands.
  • Clean your hands. Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
    • Handwashing: Clean Hands Save Lives Tips on hand washing and using alcohol-based hand sanitizers
    • It’s a SNAP Toolkit: Handwashing Hand washing resources from the It’s a SNAP program, aimed at preventing school absenteeism by promoting clean hands; from the School Network for Absenteeism Prevention, a collaborative project of the CDC, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the American Cleaning Institute.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when people touch something that is contaminated with germs and then touch their eyes, nose or mouth.
  • Wear a mask. Masks can reduce the transmission of all respiratory illnesses, including the flu.
  • Practice other good health habits. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is ill. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food.

 


Trooper Andrew Mattern receives "2021 Putnamville Trooper of the District" award

Indiana State Police Putnamville District Commander, Lieutenant David Cox, recently announced the recipient of the 2021 Indiana State Police Putnamville District Trooper of the Year.  This honor is bestowed upon a district trooper that illustrates the department’s standards and expectations as related to the mission of the department.

 

The 2021 Putnamville District Trooper of the Year is Trooper Andrew MatternTrooper Mattern’s performance and accomplishments during 2021 are worthy of such recognition and have earned him this award.  Trooper Mattern is a four-year veteran of the Indiana State Police.

 

Trooper Mattern was overwhelmingly nominated for this award by his peers and the Putnamville District Command Team.  During 2021, Trooper Mattern concentrated his traffic and criminal enforcement efforts on DUI, drug enforcement, and associated crimes.  Trooper Mattern made 28 DUI arrests and 258 criminal arrests, most of which were drug and/or alcohol related.

 

Trooper Mattern also received a Life Saving Award in 2021 and is the district’s award recipient for “District Top DUI Award''.

 

Mattern regularly assists the Vigo County Sheriff’s Department and the Terre Haute City Police with calls of service.  Trooper Mattern is currently assigned to the Vigo County squad.  Trooper Mattern is a field training officer, as well as being a firearms and URASE instructor.  Mattern is a graduate of the 78th ISP Recruit School. 

 

Lieutenant Cox commented, “Trooper Mattern sets the example for other troopers to follow and he treats people with genuine respect and concern.  He is a mature and conscientious trooper who has earned the respect of his peers, supervisors, and the citizens he serves. His overall dedication to the agency and its mission, his initiative, and his modesty are his outstanding attributes.  Trooper Mattern is a well-rounded law enforcement professional who will undertake any task”. 

 

Mattern resides in Vigo County with his wife Hayley.

Hendricks County Sheriff's detectives Avon scout troop elder in child molest investigation

A scout leader has been charged with over a dozen felonies including child molestation.

 

Kevin Coley, 47, of Jamestown was booked into the Hendricks County Jail on 14 counts of felony charges including child molest, sexual misconduct with a minor and vicarious sexual conduct. 

 

Coley’s arrest stems from an investigation that was reported to Hendricks County Detectives in February of 2022, when an adult male came forward to report that he had been subjected to inappropriate sexual contact by one of his Avon Scout Troop elders as far back as 2012. 

 

Hendricks County detectives and crime scene investigators executed a search warrant and arrest warrant at Coley’s Jamestown home on June 1.  Coley was subsequently located and arrested in Citrus County Florida and extradited back to Indiana to face the criminal charges. 

 

Coley is being held at the Hendricks County Jail with a $100,000 cash bond.  As of this report, there are four known victims in this case.  If anyone has any information about this case or knows of any additional incidents involving Coley, they are encouraged to contact Sgt. Chandler at the Hendricks County Sheriff’s Office at 317.745.4033.  


Putnam County receives funding boost to increase lead screenings

State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) said the Putnam County Health Department recently received a funding boost through a new state grant program aimed at tackling public health challenges.

Baird, who supported the law establishing the Health Issues and Challenges Grant, said Indiana recently released more than $35 million in grant funding to local and statewide service providers and health organizations. The program's goal is to help improve health outcomes related to tobacco use, food insecurity/obesity, lead exposure, hepatitis C, chronic disease, and disease prevention programs, including community paramedicine and community health workers.

 

The Putnam County Health Department received money to support a program for lead screenings in children, so they can be tested for potential lead exposure and be referred for treatment. Local residents can visit in.gov/localhealth/putnamcounty or call 765-301-7660 for more information about lead testing.

 

"Local providers know what health challenges need the most attention," Baird said. "This grant will ensure more children are tested for lead and be referred to any necessary follow-up care."

 

Statewide organizations that serve local communities also received grants, including the National Kidney Foundation of Indiana, the Indiana Rural Health Association, the Health Foundation of Greater Indianapolis, Health By Design and the Indiana Breastfeeding Coalition.
 
According to the Indiana Department of Health, which oversees the program, grant funds must be spent by Dec. 31, 2026, and additional funding will be offered in a subsequent round.

To learn more, visit in.gov/health/grant-opportunities and click on "Health Issues and Challenges Grant."

Hendricks County Sheriff's Office investigating report of attempted confinement of teenage girl

Authorities in Hendricks County are trying to identify a man from a reported possible attempted confinement of a teenage girl.

 

On Saturday, June 18, around 9:20 pm, Hendricks County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report,  “Trouble with a Person” that occurred on the B&O trail north of the Wynbrooke subdivision near 21st St. and Raceway Road in Avon. 

 

According to the report, a 17 year old girl was walking alone on the trail when she was approached by four unidentified males. The initial investigation indicates that one of the males, described as Hispanic and about 30 years old, attempted to talk to the teen, expressing a romantic interest in her.   The girl walked westward with the man for an undetermined period of time, but then turned around to go back eastbound on the trail, from where she had originally come. 

 

When the man attempted to kiss the girl, she fled on foot. He then caught up with her and held onto her hand, attempting to get her to come back with him on the trail.  The girl pulled away from the man and continued running away from the trail.  The man was last seen walking westbound on the trail toward Ronald Reagan Blvd.   

 

Hendricks County Detectives are attempting to identify the man involved in this incident.  If anyone recognizes this man, please contact Det. Sgt. Charles Tyree at 317.745.9354. 

 

The B&O Trail entrance nearest the incident is located in the 10700 block of Northern Dancer Dr.  Detectives are asking all residents in that area to please review their outdoor surveillance cameras, between 7pm and 9 pm on June 18, for any activity that might be related to this incident.  If you locate any relevant surveillance footage, you are asked that you contact Sgt. Tyree. 

 

The Hendricks County Sheriffs Office also encourages people who use the trails for fitness to travel in groups, especially during the evening hours, and to report any suspicious activity to local police.  


Gov. Holcomb calls a special session to return $1 billion to Hoosier taxpayers

Governor Eric J. Holcomb Wednesday signed a proclamation calling a special session for the General Assembly to convene on July 6, 2022, to take action on his plan to return more than $1 billion of state reserves to Hoosier taxpayers.

 

“This is the fastest, fairest and most efficient way to return taxpayers' hard-earned money during a time of economic strain,” said Gov. Holcomb. “Indiana’s economy is growing and with more than $1 billion of revenue over current projections, Hoosier taxpayers deserve to have their money responsibly returned. I’m happy to be able to take this first step and look forward to signing this plan into law as soon as possible.”

 

Each taxpayer would collect about $225 in addition to $125 Hoosiers are currently receiving from the state’s automatic taxpayer refund (ATR). All told, each eligible Hoosier would receive about $350; a married couple filing jointly would receive about $700.

 

Click here to view the proclamation.

Putnam Co. researching insurance plans for county employees; rising costs

Insurance for Putnam County employees is a focus of the county government as decision time comes on provider and plans.

 

County Commissioner Rick Woodall addressed the Putnam County Council Tuesday night.  He noted some immediate changes with the next providers.

 

 

Woodall says Anthem’s initial offer of an over 10 percent increase in costs included the realization that the county’s claims had increased.

 

 

Woodall says thru further negotiations with Anthem they have backtracked the previous offer of over ten percent to just an approximate five percent increase.  He says they are awaiting final exact numbers from Anthem.

 

That five percent increase would mean an over $10, 000 increase in costs to the county per month.

 

Woodall said they believe it’s been ten years since county employees have had the amount they pay to the health insurance program increased.

 

Woodall says concern grows with the health insurance fund.  It stands now at just over a million dollars and recommendations indicate it shouldn’t go lower than the $700, 000 range.  Throw in that the clinic offered through the insurance is paid approximately $12, 000 per month from that fund and it’s a threat to be lowered into dangerous levels.

 

 

Woodall says they intend to offer incentives to county employees to visit the clinic for illness and ailments.  Every quarter drawing a name from those who have been to the clinic for a $100 gift card.  The intent to utilize the clinic more instead of illness visits that end up at, for example, an emergency room for an illness that worsened and could have been precented.

 

Woodall says a number of issues with county insurance will need to be answered in next two weeks with the new insurance scheduled to begin August 1.

 

 

No injuries in Montgomery Co. train wreck

A crash involving a train, passenger car, and semi tractor-trailer, occurred at Nucor Road and County Road 300 South. 

 

When the Montgomery County Sheriffs arrived, the roadway was closed off due to the train stopping after the collision. According to the preliminary investigation both the passenger car and the semi tractor-trailer were heading south on Nucor Road. The railroad crossing lights and arms activated due to the oncoming train and the car slowed. However, the car was struck from behind by the semi, resulting in both vehicles coming to rest partially on the train tracks. The CSX train struck both vehicles and the semi-trailer was shoved off the roadway and overturned, resulting in a large amount of scrap metal to be scattered on the roadway.

 

Douglas Keeling, 62, of Crawfordsville, was driving a 1999 Toyota Camry with one adult passenger. Driving the semi (a 2020 Peterbuilt, owned by Harvard Logistics LLC) was David Millard, 31, of Wisconsin. Millard was cited for failing to stop at a railroad crossing.

 

All of the vehicle occupants refused medical treatment at the scene.

 

The Sheriff's Office was assisted at the scene by the Crawfordsville Police Department, Crawfordsville Fire Department, Indiana State Police, CSX Railroad Police, Emergency Management, Froedge's Towing, and Nucor Steel.

 

COVID-19 vaccines available for children under 5

The Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) announced today that COVID-19 vaccines for children ages 6 months up to age 5 are now available at some Indiana providers, expanding the population eligible to be protected against the disease. Shipments will continue to arrive at participating locations this week.

 

IDOH has updated its map at www.ourshot.in.gov to show sites that have indicated they will offer the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines for this age group. Both vaccines received authorization from the FDA and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) last week. Initial sites will include private healthcare providers, local health departments and some hospitals and pharmacies.

 

Vaccines are currently available on a walk-in basis at most locations, or parents can contact their child’s healthcare provider to schedule an appointment if the provider is offering the vaccine. Due to staggered vaccine delivery dates, parents are encouraged to contact the provider before arriving to ensure the age-appropriate dose is available. IDOH is working to update its online registration system so that appointments for this age group can be made via www.ourshot.in.gov as soon as possible.

 

Visit the Indiana Department of Health at www.Statehealth.in.gov for important health and safety information or follow us on Twitter at @StateHealthIN and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/StateHealthIN.

Medical helicopter service offers package for Putnam Co. Commissioners to cover residents

Putnam County’s medical helicopter service brought a proposal to Putnam County Commissioners on Monday for residents’ coverage should they need a flight for medical purposes.

 

Jill Spaulding represented Staff Flight at the meeting Monday morning.  She says most think that their insurance will cover such a transport from its base at the Putnam County Regional Airport.

 

 

She says most think that their insurance will cover such a transport.

 

 

Spaulding says a patient can request Staff Flight.  But weather, availability and other factors play in to that.  So, Staff Flight may not always be the medical transport available.  In 2021, there were 181 requests for Staff Flight in Putnam and surrounding counties. Of those, the company covered 75.

 

Spaulding says there are other packages offered residents that can be purchased for total coverage.  For example, if a Putnam County resident was on vacation in another state that Staff Flight services and needs the assistance the company offers, they could.  The offer to the county is to help cover Putnam residents in Putnam County and its border counties.

 

The Putnam County Commissioners tabled the issue for further discussion.

Hendricks Co. among those listed in IDEM's Air Quality Action Day

The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has issued an Air Quality Action Day (AQAD) and is forecasting high ozone levels for tomorrow, June 21, 2022 in the following regions: 

  • Central Indiana – Marion, Bartholomew, Boone, Brown, Delaware, Hamilton, Hendricks, Howard, Madison, Shelby 
  • Southeast Indiana – Clark, Floyd
  • Southwest Indiana – Daviess, Dubois, Gibson, Greene, Knox, Perry, Pike, Posey, Spencer, Vanderburgh, Warrick 
  • West Central Indiana – Vigo, Carroll, Tippecanoe

Note: The counties referenced in the region(s) above are equipped with ozone air quality monitors. However, all counties within an AQAD region should heed the forecast. Air quality information for all Indiana counties can be found at SmogWatch.IN.gov

IDEM encourages everyone to help reduce ozone by making changes to daily habits. You can:

  • Drive less: carpool, use public transportation, walk, bike, or work from home when possible
  • Combine errands into one trip
  • Avoid refueling your vehicle or using gasoline-powered lawn equipment until after 7 p.m.
  • Keep your engine tuned, and don’t let your engine idle (e.g., at a bank or restaurant drive-thru)
  • Conserve energy by turning off lights and setting the thermostat to 75 degrees or above 

Air Quality Action Days are in effect from midnight to 11:59 p.m. on the specified date. Anyone sensitive to changes in air quality may be affected when ozone levels are high. Children, the elderly, and anyone with heart or lung conditions should reduce or avoid exertion and heavy work outdoors.

Ground-level ozone is formed when sunlight and hot weather combine with vehicle exhaust, factory emissions, and gasoline vapors. Ozone in the upper atmosphere blocks ultraviolet radiation, but ozone near the ground is a lung irritant that can cause coughing and breathing difficulties for sensitive populations. 

IDEM examines weather patterns and current ozone readings to make daily air quality forecasts. Air Quality Action Days generally occur when weather conditions such as light winds, hot and dry air, stagnant conditions, and lower atmospheric inversions trap pollutants close to the ground.

North Putnam's Seth Ariens to serve as Indiana FFA President

The Indiana FFA Convention was held at the Indiana State Fairgrounds for the second time in the organization’s history. Sessions were held at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, with judging events held at Hamilton Southeastern High School, and some banquets and workshops held at Conner Prairie.

 

The following members were named to the 2022-2023 Indiana FFA State Officer team:

 

President – Seth Ariens, North Putnam

Secretary – Tobias Sturgell, Indian Creek

Northern Region Vice President – Mary Jones, Adams Central

Southern Region Vice President – Jenna Kelsay, Whiteland

Treasurer – Anthony Taylor, Warsaw

Reporter – Gracie Lee, Monroe Central

Sentinel – Jaden Maze, Western Boone

Motorcycle accident claimed the life of Pennsylvania man

A Pennsylvania man was killed in an  I-70 motorcycle accident Sunday.

 

Just after 1:30 pm the Indiana State Police Putnamville Post responded to a single vehicle accident that claimed the life of one individual on Interstate 70 eastbound, near the thirty-seven mile marker.

 

Senior Trooper Yan Dravigne did the preliminary investigation and determined that Martin Henneman, 54, of Bradford, Pennsylvania, was driving a 1998 Honda motorcycle eastbound on Interstate 70.  Due to mechanical issues with the front tire, Henneman lost control, traveled off the south side of Interstate 70 and came to an abrupt stop off the roadway.  

 

Henneman was transported to the Putnam County Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.  

 

Drugs and alcohol are not believed to be a contributing factor of the accident.

 

Assisting on scene were Cloverdale Fire Department, Putnam County EMS, Putnam County Coroner’s Office, Seniour’s Towing.

First probable case of monkeypox identified in Indiana

State health officials announced that the first probable case of monkeypox in Indiana in 2022 has been identified. No further information about the patient will be released due to privacy concerns.

 

Initial testing was completed at the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) Laboratories today. Confirmatory testing is pending at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Based on the initial positive test and preliminary case investigation, state health officials consider this a probable monkeypox infection. The patient remains isolated, and health officials are working to identify anyone the patient may have had close contact with while infectious.

 

“The risk of monkeypox among the general public continues to be extremely low,” said State Health Commissioner Kris Box, M.D., FACOG. “Monkeypox is rare and does not easily spread through brief casual contact. Please continue to take the same steps you do to protect against any infection, including washing your hands frequently and thoroughly, and check with a healthcare provider if you have any new signs or symptoms.”

 

Person-to-person transmission is possible either through skin-to-skin contact with body fluids, monkeypox sores or contaminated items, such as bedding or clothing, or through exposure to respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact.

 

Monkeypox typically begins with fever, headache, chills, muscle aches and exhaustion about 5 to 21 days after exposure. Within 1 to 3 days (sometimes longer) after the appearance of fever, the patient develops a rash, often beginning on the face and then spreading to other parts of the body. Some people may only develop the rash. The illness typically lasts for 2 to 4 weeks. People are considered infectious until all scabs from the rash have fallen off.

 

The CDC reports that 113 monkeypox cases have been confirmed in 21 U.S. states and territories in 2022. Visit the CDC’s website for more information on the monkeypox outbreak.

Indiana State Police promotes Owen County native

The Superintendent of the Indiana State Police, Douglas G. Carter, has announced the promotion of Sergeant Michael Wood to the rank of First Sergeant. F/Sgt. Wood will serve as the Assistant District Commander and oversee the district facilities and resources along with being the district administrator and acting commander when designated.

 

Wood is a native of Spencer, Indiana, and a 1996 graduate of Owen Valley High School. In December of 2002, he earned a bachelor's degree from Indiana State University.

 

On July 8, 2007, F/Sgt. Wood graduated from the 67th Indiana State Police Recruit Academy and was assigned to the Putnamville Post. Wood patrolled Putnam County until 2016 when he was then promoted to the rank of Sergeant and began his role as the Indiana State Police Academy Assistant Commander for the 76th through the 80th Recruit Academies. He continued in this position until December of 2020 when he was promoted as the Public Information Officer (PIO) for the Bloomington District.

 

During his career, F/Sgt. Wood has served as a member of the Tactical Intervention Platoon and Meth Suppression Section after he received federal certifications through the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in clandestine laboratory investigations at the DEA Headquarters in Quantico, Virginia. Other experience includes being a Field Training Officer (FTO) for the 69th through the 74th Recruit Academy graduates along with being an Indiana Law Enforcement Training Board-approved Instructor. He served as an academy counselor for the 75th Recruit School and has graduated from the Indiana State Police Leadership Academy. In 2008, F/Sgt. Wood was awarded the Putnamville Post, "Trooper of the District."

 

“F/Sgt. Wood has excelled with ISP as a Trooper, Assistant Academy Commander, and as the Bloomington PIO for the last 18 months," said Lt. Paul Bucher, Bloomington District Commander. "His wide range of experience, leadership, and dedication to the department will help the Bloomington District serve the citizens of Indiana."

 

First Sergeant Wood and his wife Cristi reside in Owen County with their daughters Kloee and  Campbell and son Auggie.

Baird introduces legislation to restart border wall construction, prevent waste of tax dollars

Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) introduced the Border Construction Materials Transfer Act, legislation which would require the federal government, through the Department of Homeland Security, to immediately transfer ownership of all construction materials already purchased for improving border security and staged along our Southern border to the state governments located on the border. 

 

 “For nearly a year and a half, we have watched the Biden administration not only fail to establish any plan to address the raging crisis at our Southern border but make absolutely no constructive use of the materials already purchased by the Trump administration to construct a barrier along the border,” said Congressman Baird.  “As we continue to experience record numbers of border crossings each month and lethal drugs continue to flood our communities at alarming rates, the need for a barrier along our Southern border couldn’t be more dire. The American taxpayers cannot afford to continue footing the multi-billion-dollar bill for unused barrier materials while our Southern border remains more vulnerable than ever before. My bill immediately transfers ownership of these materials from the woefully inept Biden administration to the border state governments, thereby empowering them to do what has otherwise failed to be done: secure our Southern border.”

 

Background:

Since President Biden issued an order to stop construction of the Southern border barrier, the federal government has paid contractors over $3 million a day to monitor unused border materials. In Texas alone, there is over $100 million worth of border wall materials that has already been purchased with taxpayer dollars going to waste. 

 

Over 2.6 million illegal immigrants have been apprehended at our Southern border since President Biden took office, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Secretary Mayorkas have confirmed that over 700,000 known “gotaways” have evaded apprehension by CBP at the Southern border during the same timeframe. To date, CBP has seized 340,000 pounds of drugs in Fiscal Year 2022, including 5,300 pounds of fentanyl which is enough to kill 2.4 billion people.

 

The Border Construction Materials Transfer Act (H.R.8028) does the following:

Directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to transfer materials to construct roadways and physical barriers along the Southern border of the United States to the governments of the states in which such materials are located.

 

Ownership of these covered materials located in the states of Arizona, California, New Mexico, and Texas is transferred to the governments of these states respectively

 

DHS is responsible for the physical relocation of all covered materials transferred to state-operated facilities

 

Crawfordsville resident a graduate of the 82nd Indiana State Police Recruit Academy

The 82nd Indiana State Police Recruit Academy completed its graduation ceremony in the Indiana State Capitol Rotunda on Thursday.  After the commencement address, the oath of office for the 18 new State Police officers was delivered and each new trooper was then presented their badge and official identification by Superintendent Carter and his staff.

 

The graduation marked the culmination of 23 weeks of intense training which totaled more than 1,100 hours. Some subject areas of training included criminal and traffic law, de-escalation, emergency vehicle operations, defensive tactics, firearms, impaired driving detection, scenario-based training, and a host of other academic subjects related to modern policing.

 

Chelsey Smith, of Crawfordsville, is a member of the graduating class.  She has been assigned to the Lafayette Post.

 

Each graduating trooper will be assigned to one of 14 State Police Posts across Indiana. Once at their assigned district, the new troopers will spend the next three months working side by side with a series of experienced Field Training Officers. The purpose of the field training is to put to practical application the training received throughout the formal academy training. Upon successful completion of field training, the new troopers will be assigned a state police patrol vehicle and will begin solo patrol in their assigned district.

 

 

IRS expands voice bot options for faster service, less wait time

The Internal Revenue Service today announced expanded voice bot options to help eligible taxpayers easily verify their identity to set up or modify a payment plan while avoiding long wait times.

 

"This is part of a wider effort at the IRS to help improve the experience of taxpayers," said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. "We continue to look for ways to better assist taxpayers, and that includes helping people avoid waiting on hold or having to make a second phone call to get what they need. The expanded voice bots are another example of how technology can help the IRS provide better service to taxpayers."

 

Voice bots run on software powered by artificial intelligence, which enables a caller to navigate an interactive voice response. The IRS has been using voice bots on numerous toll-free lines since January, enabling taxpayers with simple payment or notice questions to get what they need quickly and avoid waiting. Taxpayers can always speak with an English- or Spanish-speaking IRS telephone representative if needed.

 

Eligible taxpayers who call the Automated Collection System (ACS) and Accounts Management toll-free lines and want to discuss payment plan options can authenticate or verify their identities through a personal identification number (PIN) creation process. Setting up a PIN is easy: Taxpayers will need their most recent IRS bill and some basic personal information to complete the process.

 

"To date, the voice bots have answered over 3 million calls. As we add more functions for taxpayers to resolve their issues, I anticipate many more taxpayers getting the service they need quickly and easily," said Darren Guillot, IRS Deputy Commissioner of Small Business/Self Employed Collection & Operations Support.

 

Additional voice bot service enhancements are planned in 2022 that will allow authenticated individuals (taxpayers with established or newly created PINs) to get:

  • Account and return transcripts.
  • Payment history.
  • Current balance owed.

 

In addition to the payment lines, voice bots help people who call the Economic Impact Payment (EIP) toll-free line with general procedural responses to frequently asked questions. The IRS also added voice bots for the Advance Child Tax Credit toll-free line in February to provide similar assistance to callers who need help reconciling the credits on their 2021 tax return.

 

The IRS also reminds taxpayers about numerous other available self-service options

Patching operation on I-70 starting June 17 in multiple counties

The Indiana Department of Transportation announced lane restrictions on I-70 westbound between State Road 39 and U.S. 231 for patchwork starting on or after Friday.

 

The westbound lane will be restricted to 12-feet on Friday, starting at 9 p.m. to the following Friday at 6 a.m., and will repeat. This will last through the beginning of August, weather permitting. 

 

This project was awarded to Rieth Riley Construction for $17.2 million.

 

It also includes patchwork on I-70 from approximately 0.48 miles west of S.R. 59 to approximately 6.4 miles east of S.R. 59.

City Council selects Russell Harvey for the Greencastle Board of School Trustees

In a unanimous vote Wednesday night, the Greencastle City Council reappointed Russell Harvey to the Greencastle Board of School Trustees. Harvey first joined the school board three years ago as a replacement for Lisa McCoy, who had resigned.

 

Harvey was one of four applicants to be interviewed Wednesday night; the other three applicants were Derek Jorgensen, Lee Price, and Jenny Noll.

 

Each applicant was given the opportunity to make an opening statement and closing statement, with about 40 minutes of questions in between.

 

Derek Jorgensen, randomly selected to go first, worked 12 years for Crown and moved to the school district five years ago. His children currently attend Greencastle Schools and his wife had been a lifelong resident. His goal for the school board was to facilitate a more inclusive science fair, getting the younger students involved.

 

Jennifer Noll has an extensive history in the education field, including working with Gifted and Talented classes, minority-majority school in Fort Wayne, and educating at North Putnam. She retired as an administrator when her health took a turn, ultimately retiring completely for the same reason. However, Greencastle School Board rules of reorganization require she be a resident within the school district for three years. While Noll has resided in Putnam County in the home she and her husband built for 20 years and are selling the home to move into the condo they purchased on Ridgeland Road, they had not been within the district lines; thus, she was disqualified.

 

Lee Price has resided in Greencastle for 43 years, his entire life. He has spent 16 years with the Madison Tpwnship fire department and is Chief of the fire department. He has some experience with education, being a fireman training educator administering written tests and practical tests. His goals included improving the relationship between the Greencastle School Corporation and emergency training to ensure all staff and educators are aware of protocols for a variety of safety concerns, including active shooter drills.

 

The Greencastle School Board of Trustees is a five member team, each appointed to their position. Russell Harvey will continue as a City Council appointee alongside fellow appointee, Brian Cox. Other members of the School Board are Dale Pierce, Madison Township and Ed Wilson and Mike White, both Greencastle Township appointees. This is a four year term, beginning July 1, 2022.

 

Appointees are selected every two years; Brian Cox will be the next open seat in 2024.

Robe-Ann Park toilet destroyed by fire set inside it

A fire in a park toilet led to a call to local authories Wednesday.

 

Just before 1:30 pm Wednesday the Greencastle Fire Department was dispatced to Robe-Ann Park regarding a structure fire in the women’s restroom near the softball field. 

 

Greencastle Police Chief Tom Sutherlin says when he arrived the Greencastle Fire Department was on scene and entering the bathroom with a fire extinguisher.  It was determined that a black sweatshirt was stuffed in a toilet and set on fire causing damage to the toilet. 

 

This is an ongoing investigation.  

Parke County woman charged with stealing money from employer in Rockville

Indiana State Police Master Trooper Detective Brian Maudlin initiated a criminal investigation on March 15, after receiving information that a former employee, Lacey Van Duyn, 29, of Rockville, at the Country Mark fueling station in Rockville, had allegedly stolen funds for self-gain in the amount of $3,549.65.

 

After reviewing the investigation, the Parke County Prosecutor’s Office issued a warrant for VanDuyn.  She was arrested, without incident, by Master Trooper Jason Owens and Master Trooper Jeremy Lewis, and is currently being held in the Parke County Jail on a $10,000 bond with 10% allowed.   

 

VanDuyn is charged with Level 6 Felony - Theft.

 

New student affairs leader for DePauw University

Starting August 1,  John Mark Day is joining DePauw University as the new vice president for student affairs and dean of students.

 

Day spent seven years as the director of leadership and campus life at Oklahoma State University; he supervised student engagement initiatives such as fraternity and sorority life, student activities, the Student Government Association, orientation, international students and scholars, career development, and student basic needs.

 

Before Oklahoma, he worked 12 years at Texas Christian University, working his way up the director of the first-year experience. He also a member of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity and advised the TCU chapter.

 

Day has achieved two masters and a doctorate. While attending Dallas Theological Seminary, he obtained a master's in media and communication with a focus on theology. His other master's is in journalism, which he earned at Texas Christian University. His doctorate in education, he earned at Vanderbilt University.

Duke Energy awards scholarship to Greencastle native

Kelsey Moore of Greencastle, Ind. will receive a $1,000 scholarship from Duke Energy to help pay for her post-high school education.

 

Moore, a senior at Indiana Connections Academy, is one of 55 high school students selected as part of the 2022 Duke Energy Scholars Program. This fall, she will attend Goshen College in Goshen, Ind. to study American sign language and art. Her parents are David and Angela Moore.

 

“We’re proud to support dedicated individuals like Kelsey that recognize the value and importance of furthering their education,” said Stan Pinegar, president of Duke Energy Indiana. “We are honored to provide scholarships to help local students continue to learn and explore future careers.”

 

Scholarships are awarded annually to graduating high school seniors who are the dependent children of qualified Duke Energy employees and retirees. Award recipients are selected based on academic record, leadership and participation in school and community activities, honors and awards, adult appraisal, work experience and other factors.

 

Scholarship winners do not have to work for Duke Energy after graduation and there is no implied promise of a job.

Volunteers needed for community-wide day of service in Putnam County

The United Way of West Central Indiana Go All In Day is happening June 24 with hundreds of volunteers completing projects for nonprofits, grassroots organizations, and community groups throughout Central Indiana and you can help.

 

In Putnam County, help is still needed for three projects:  

 

Those interested in volunteering can learn more and sign up by clicking the direct links above or by visiting goallinday.com.  

 

United Way hosted its first Go All IN Day last year. More than 500 volunteers completed over 70 projects in Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, Morgan and Putnam counties.  

New scholarship accounts give Hoosier families more control over students' education

The Indiana Education Scholarship Account Program joins the state's robust catalog of education opportunities and is designed for families seeking to take control of their student's academic journeys.

 

The application window will open for eligible students on June 27, 2022.

 

"After so much preparation, input, and study, we are thrilled to announce the launch of the Indiana ESA Program," said Treasurer of State Kelly Mitchell, who oversees the program. "Families will have more opportunities to meet their child's individual education needs by taking control of the resources they are entitled to through an Indiana ESA account. I encourage all eligible Hoosiers to consider applying."

 

The Education Scholarship Account Program provides tax-free scholarship funds to Eligible Students for pre-approved education expenses such as tuition, therapies, assessments, and fee-for-service transportation to spend with pre-approved educational service providers. Funds are not counted as income for families of recipients, nor do funds impact other forms of financial aid (e.g. Medicaid waivers).

 

For the 2022-23 school year, the application window for eligible students is June 27-August 5, 2022. Applications can be found online at www.in.gov/tos/inesa.

 

To be eligible for ESA funds, students must meet the following requirements:

  • Be a resident of Indiana;
  • Are between the ages of 5-22 years old;
  • Require special education services and have an Individualized Education Program (IEP), Service Plan (SP), or Choice Special Education Plan (CSEP); and
  • Annual income may not exceed 300% of the federal Free and Reduced Lunch income qualification.

Applications are open for providers now, and can be found on the program's Application pagehttps://www.in.gov/tos/inesa/.

Driver crashed into Montgomery Co. home; arrested on warrants

A truck crash Friday in Montgomery County ended with a truck into a house and the driver arrested on warrants.

 

On Friday, just after 1:30 p.m., the Indiana State Police and Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department responded to a crash on US 136 just west of County Road 300 S.

 

A preliminary investigation revealed a 2002 Chevrolet Silverado driven by Naomi Wolf, 35, of Crawfordsville, was traveling westbound on US 136 just west of County Road 300 S. For an unknown reason, the Silverado ran off the north side of the road, overcorrected, and went back across US 136. The Silverado then went off the south side of the road, through a field, and came to stop after hitting a house.

 

Wolf was transported by EMS to a Crawfordsville area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The house was empty at the time of the crash.

 

Upon being released from the hospital, Wolf was transported to Tippecanoe County Jail, where she had active warrants for her arrest.

 

Charges include: Possession of Methamphetamine – Level 6 Felony

Conversion – Class A Misdemeanor

 

This crash is still under investigation. It is believed that impairment is a contributing factor to the crash, however, troopers are awaiting toxicology results.

 

Once the investigation is complete, it will be turned over to the Montgomery County Prosecutor for review and determination of charges, if any, to be filed.

 

 

Trooper Decker was assisted by troopers from the Lafayette Post, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department, Walnut Township Volunteer Fire Department, and Crawfordsville EMS.

Local authorities looking for reported missing person

Greencastle Police and the Putnam County Sheriff's Department have posted information about a local missing person case.

 

Benjamin Parker, 37, was reported missing by his family over the weekend. Police and family are concerned for his well-being and are actively trying to locate him.

 

If you have any information on Parker's whereabouts, contact Officer Alec Pettit with Greencastle Police.

 

Police note that Parker is not in any legal trouble.  They are just concerned for his safety.

Hodgen Farms in Putnam County one of the 2022 Featured Farmers at the Indiana State Fair

The Indiana State Fair and Corteva Agriscience are proud to unveil the highly anticipated 2022 Featured Farmers that will be honored at this year’s Indiana State Fair. In its seventh year, this program celebrates and helps put a face on Hoosier agriculture by connecting consumers with fellow Hoosiers who grow the food they eat. These 18 farm operations represent all regions of the state, showcasing different agricultural products throughout the 18-day State Fair, July 29-August 21.

 

“Our Featured Farmers program connects fairgoers to Hoosier farmers daily during the State Fair with opportunities to learn more about where their food comes from,” said Cindy Hoye, executive director, Indiana State Fair Commission. “These farmers have incredible stories to tell, and we are proud to honor and celebrate them.”

 

Visitors to the Indiana State Fair can attend a live chat at 2:30 p.m. in the Glass Barn with a Featured Farmer every day of the Fair, in addition to many other opportunities to talk with that day’s Featured Farm family and learn about their operation.

 

To learn more about the farmers, visit IndianaStateFair.com

 

“Corteva Agriscience, is pleased once again to be the presenting sponsor of the Featured Farmer program at the Indiana State Fair. During the past seven years of sponsoring the Featured Farmer program, we have been able to honor farm families from across the state and provide an opportunity  for fairgoers who are consumers to meet these farmers who spend their days working to feed all of us,” said Susan Carney, Strategic Marketing Communications Leader, Corteva Agriscience.

 

Here is the complete list of featured farmers, farm products and their home counties:

  • (July 29) Sheller Family Farms (Corn), Hamilton County
  • (July 30) Martin Family Farms (Swine), Warren County
  • (July 31) Red Frazier Bison Ranch (Bison), Greene County
  • (August 3) Goin’s Blueberry Lane (Blueberries), Starke County
  • (August 4) Gutwein Popcorn (Popcorn), Pulaski County
  • (August 5) Hodgen Farms (Soybeans), Putnam County
  • (August 6) New Age Provisions Farm (Urban Farmer), Marion County
  • (August 7) Eggersman Brothers Cattle (Beef Cattle), Jackson County
  • (August 10) Salomon Farms LLC (Corn/Soybeans, Custom baling), Whitley County
  • (August 11) Countryside and Apple Hill Orchards (Apples), Vanderburgh
  • (August 12) Wagler Dairy (Dairy Cattle), Brown County
  • (August 13) Dutch Valley Growers (Tomatoes & Onions), LaPorte County
  • (August 14) Superior Dairy (Dairy Cattle), DeKalb County
  • (August 17) 3D Valley Farm (Maple Syrup and other farm delicacies), Harrison County
  • (August 18) Mark & Peggy Jones (Hardwoods), Orange County
  • (August 19) Bourbon Bound Farms (Whiskey/Corn/Cover Crops), Jackson County
  • (August 20) Lick Creek Flower Company (Flowers), Madison County
  • (August 21) Scott Farms (Wheat, Corn & Soybeans), Cass County

 

Governor proposes returning $1 billion to Hoosier taxpayers

Governor Eric Holcomb today announced a plan to return $1 billion of state reserves to Hoosier taxpayers, following higher than expected revenue performance this fiscal year.

Each taxpayer would collect about $225 in addition to $125 Hoosiers are currently receiving from the state’s automatic taxpayer refund (ATR). All told, each eligible Hoosier would receive about $350; a married couple filing jointly would receive about $700.

“Hoosiers have real needs right now during this period of high inflation, from the gas pump to buying groceries, and everyone should benefit from the state’s success,” said Holcomb.

The governor has outlined his plan with legislative leaders.

“I’ve met with Speaker Huston and Senator Bray and have asked them to discuss getting a billion dollars back into Hoosier hands with their colleagues,” said Holcomb. “I’ve committed to work with them to call a special session before the end of June to take action to align this second round of returns with our current ATR.”

The state’s reported revenues for May, released today, were $209 million over forecast. For 11 months of the fiscal year, revenues are $1.075 billion over forecast. 

If approved, an additional deposit would be made to the bank accounts of eligible Hoosiers, just like the current ATR. For those who will receive paper checks beginning in August, one check for $350 for individual taxpayers, or $700 for those filing jointly, would be issued.

State Road 236 closing near North Salem

The Indiana Department of Transportation announced State Road 236 will close in both directions on or after Friday, June 10 between N. County Line Rd. 900 E. and West St. near North Salem for construction work. The official detour follows S.R. 75 to U.S. 36 to U.S. 231 back to S.R. 236. Starting July 19, S.R. 236 will close between U.S. 231 and Rush St. in Roachdale for additional work in Putnam County.

North Putnam FFA members with chance to become Indiana FFA State Officers

Two North Putnam students are among 15 Indiana FFA members from across the state are preparing for the opportunity to serve as an Indiana FFA State Officer for the upcoming year.

 

After a week of FFA engagement opportunities, seven individuals will be selected to fulfill the roles of president, secretary, northern region vice president, southern region vice president, treasurer, reporter and sentinel.

 

Jayden Simpson and Seth Ariens are among the students seeking the opportunity.

 

During the 93rd Indiana FFA State Convention, the candidates will participate in a rigorous interview and selection process, in which, the chosen candidates will be announced at the final session on Thursday, June 16.

 

Once selected, the newly-elected officers will embark on a year of service, providing direction and overseeing the development of the student-led organization, which has more than 12,500 members statewide.

 

“I want to wish each FFA member competing next week the very best as they pursue these leadership positions,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch. “These FFA Student members are our future, and we are in good hands.”

 

Along with promoting FFA, agriculture and agricultural education, a majority of their responsibilities include conducting FFA chapter visits, facilitating leadership conferences, and hosting career and leadership development events, to name a few.

“Each of these young leaders have been preparing for months, if not years, and I want to wish them all the very best,” said Bruce Kettler, ISDA director. “I know the stress and the hard work they put into preparing for a State FFA Officer position and I cannot wait to see where their future in agriculture takes them.”

 

The following list includes the 15 Indiana FFA State Officer candidates:

  • Jenna Kelsay, Whiteland FFA
  • Noah Longyear, East Noble FFA
  • Jessika Thomas, South Ripley FFA
  • Blaine Prosser, Eastside FFA
  • Jayden Simpson, North Putnam FFA
  • Anthony Taylor, Warsaw FFA
  • Morgan Young, Clinton Central FFA
  • Levi Baker, Switzerland County FFA
  • Gracie Lee, Monroe Central FFA
  • Jaden Maze, Western Boone FFA
  • Tobias Sturgell, Indian Creek FFA
  • Alex Kindig, South Newton FFA
  • Mary Jones, Adam Central FFA
  • Seth Ariens, North Putnam FFA
  • Arrington Krull, Wawasee FFA

“FFA provides many new horizons for all members, especially the state officer candidates,” said Tami Ketchen, Indiana FFA Association director. “The passion and drive these students have for agriculture is beyond compare. I am excited to see where FFA leads them.”

 

The 2021-2022 Indiana FFA state officer team will be announced on June 16 on inffa.org and on Indiana FFA’s social media channels.

State Road 236 closing near North Salem starting June 10; work resumes in Roachdale July 19

The Indiana Department of Transportation announces State Road 236 will close in both directions on or after Friday, June 10 between N. County Line Rd. 900 E. and West St. near North Salem for construction work.

 

Starting July 19, S.R. 236 will close between U.S. 231 and Rush St. in Roachdale for additional work in Putnam County.

 

The official detour follows S.R. 75 to U.S. 36 to U.S. 231 back to S.R. 236.

 

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.

 

Illegal fishing nets two people a court appearance

An Indiana Conservation Officer investigated a tip of illegal fishing activity at Cataract Falls in District 5.

 

The officer found two individuals using a cast net to catch various game fish species. The names of the people involved were not available in this report.

 

The living fish were released, while the dead fish were donated to two different families that were fishing at Cataract Lake.

 

Both individuals received a summons to appear in court for fishing with an illegal method, illegal possession, and illegal possession of both undersize bass and walleye.

 

The largest waterfall by volume in the state, Cataract Falls is part of the Lieber State Recreation Area.

More than $225,000 still available in energy bill assistance for Duke Energy Indiana customers

More than $225,000 in financial assistance is still available to Duke Energy Indiana customers who may be struggling to pay their energy bills.

“Hoosiers are paying more at the grocery store and gas pump and may also be noticing higher energy bills, as rising fuel costs impact the price of electricity,” said Stan Pinegar, president of Duke Energy Indiana, in a media release. “We know that higher bills can be a hardship for many, and we want to connect our customers with financial assistance and resources to help. So far this year, we have been able to support approximately 450 households with more than $100,000 in assistance.”

The funding is made possible through Duke Energy’s Share the Light Fund, which brings together customers and communities to help individuals and families struggling to pay their energy bills. Duke Energy works in partnership with the Indiana Community Action Association to distribute the company’s assistance funds.

Qualifying Duke Energy customers who are struggling to pay their electricity bills can receive up to a $300 credit annually on their account. Customers should contact their local community action agency to take advantage of funds available locally.

Duke Energy offers a number of tools and resources to help customers take control of their energy use and save money. To learn more about these programs, visit duke-energy.com/HereToHelp.

Johnny Quick celebrates new facility

On Tuesday morning, the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce gathered with Mandi Custis' team at Johnny Quick, Inc., to celebrate construction of the company's new facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

 

Johnny Quick has been a family owned and operated business in Putnam County for 30 years. In 2019, the previous owner retired to Florida, resulting in family friends Mandi Custis and her husband, Joe, deciding it was the perfect opportunity to expand the services they could provide to the community alongside their existing company, Joe Custis Excavating.

 

Johnny Quick started out offering septic pumping services, but it did not take long before the company expanded into the portable restroom realm.

 

Johnny Quick offers commercial and residential septic pumping, commercial grease trap pumping, and portable restrooms coming in standard, wheelchair accessible, and handwashing station equipped. Custis' team also provides maintenance services, such as routine septic filter cleanings and riser installs, as well as camera, auger, and locating services.

 

Custis expressed excitement regarding the facility's completion.

 

"We are thrilled to be at our new location, which provides us with more room to grow and further expand our services," Custis said. "My favorite thing about it is that the majority of everything about our space came from local sources and contractors."

 

Cody Eckert, Executive Director of the Putnam County Chamber, echoed Custis' enthusiasm.

 

"I'm excited for Mandi and her team. It was great to take a moment and reflect on the hard work that made their business possible," Eckert said. "They're valued members of the Chamber and we had a great time celebrating their accomplishments."

 

Johnny Quick's new facility can be found just west of Greencastle at 1808 W. County Road 125 S. and contacted at 765-653-7412.

 

Above photo includes: Board members of the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce celebrate with the team of Johnny Quick. Back row, left to right, includes Evan Jones, Maurice McKee, Caleb Curtis, Cory Navel, Bob Adamson, Josh Sims, and Joshua Hunter. Front row, left to right, includes Neysa Meyer, Andrew O’Hair, Mandi Custis, Joe Custis, Owen Custis, Logan Custis, Cody Eckert, and Beau Battin.

 

 

Metronet and Vexus complete merger

Metronet, the nation’s largest independently owned, 100 percent fiber optic network provider, today announced the completion of its merger with Lubbock, Texas-based Vexus Fiber. Vexus builds and operates fiber optic networks in Texas, New Mexico and Louisiana. The combined companies will continue to operate under their current brands with their current leadership teams. The terms of the merger were not disclosed.

 

Vexus Fiber currently operates fiber-to-the-home networks in Lubbock, Amarillo, Wichita Falls, Abilene, and surrounding areas in Texas, as well as Hammond, Covington, and Mandeville in Louisiana. The company is also building new networks in the Rio Grande Valley, Tyler, Nacogdoches, and San Angelo, Texas and expanding in Lake Charles and Alexandria, Louisiana as well as Albuquerque and Santa Fe, New Mexico.

 

Both companies operate fiber optic networks with symmetrical speeds of one gigabit or higher connected directly to homes and businesses. The networks are future proof and can scale to higher speeds. Both companies connect America’s underserved cities and towns, bringing state-of-the-art fiber optic connections for workers, businesses, schools, hospitals, government facilities and homes.

Submissions open for 15th annual Indiana agriculture photo contest

The 15th annual Indiana Agriculture Photo Contest is open and accepting submissions through June 30, 2022. The contest is open to all Indiana residents and was created to recognize the hard work and contributions of Hoosier farmers, as well as the beauty of the state’s agricultural landscape.

 

Participants are encouraged to submit photos reflecting the wide array of agriculture. The categories photos can be entered under are:

On the Farm: Showcasing any building, piece of equipment or activity that is a part of life on an Indiana farm.

Faces of Agriculture: Featuring those who grow and produce food, fuel and fiber in Indiana.

Agritourism: Spotlighting Indiana’s seasonal and agricultural destinations, such as orchards, wineries and farmers markets.

Conservation: Highlighting Indiana’s natural beauty with landscapes, water and wildlife.

 

In total, ten winners will be selected: two from each category and two overall. Winners will be invited to attend a special ceremony at the Indiana State Fair, where they will be recognized and receive certificates from Lt. Gov Suzanne Crouch and Indiana State Department of Agriculture Director Bruce Kettler. Contest winners will also have their photographs featured in the offices of the Lt. Governor’s Family of Business in Indianapolis throughout the year.

 

Contestants can submit up to five photos in digital format accommodated by a submission form for each photo. Photos will be evaluated based on creativity, composition and category representation. Entries must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. (ET) on June 30.

 

 “This photo contest, now in its 15th year, is an incredible representation of the strength, diversity and beauty of our state's agriculture industry,” Kettler said. “I look forward to seeing this year’s submissions."

 

“Each year I look forward to seeing the exceptional photos shared through this contest that capture the essence of Indiana agriculture,” said Lt. Gov Suzanne Crouch, Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “We welcome all Hoosiers to submit their photos.”

 

 

For entry forms, guidelines and criteria visit ISDA.IN.GOV

 

2021 Indiana Agriculture Photo Contest winner in the Overall category; photo is titled "Newborn" and was captured by Ross Waitt from Sheridan.

Two transported via air ambulance after a multi-vehicle accident on US 231

On Tuesday, at 7:20 p.m., Indiana State Police Sergeant Cory Robinson responded to a multi-vehicle accident on US 231 near US 40.

 

A four-vehicle accident involving a semi-tractor trailer and three passenger vehicles resulted in two individuals to hospitals in Indianapolis, via air ambulance.

 

Preliminary investigation indicates that a 2014 Chevrolet Cruze driven by Shylor Clark, 30, of Spencer, and was traveling southbound on US 231.  Clark was texting and driving, causing him to drift to the west side of US 231, running off the roadway.  He overcorrected, traveling back into the northbound lanes of US 231, sideswiping a northbound 2011 Freightliner that was driven by Nigel Leach, 57, of College Park, Georgia.  This collision caused the semi tractor-trailer to become disabled due to damage to the rear tandems. 

 

Two other vehicles were involved in secondary accidents. A Pontiac Vibe driven by Nadine Pursel, 71, of Spencer,  was traveling northbound on US 231 directly behind the semi tractor-trailer, and a GMC Sierra, driven by Charles Hall,  64 of Bradenton, Florida, was traveling southbound on US 231 directly behind the Chevrolet Cruze.  Both Pursel and Hall witnessed the original accident and made evasive maneuvers to avoid becoming directly involved.  These maneuvers caused both vehicles to travel off the east and west side of US 231 and into the ditch.

 

Shylor Clark, driver of the Chevy Cruz, and Richard Pursel, 77, a passenger from the Pontiac Vibe, were transported to hospitals in Indianapolis via air ambulance.  Injuries are non-life-threatening.

 

The Indiana State Police was assisted by the Putnam County Sheriff's Department, Cloverdale Volunteer Fire Department, Greencastle Fire Department, Putnam County EMS, LifeLine, Stat Flight, INDOT, and Curtis Wrecker Service. 

Greencastle Fire Department is hiring

Like many industries, the Greencastle Fire Department finds itself in need of a few qualified individuals to become employees.

 

Assistant chief Rob Frank told the Putnam County Post, the fire department is in need of full-time, part-time and reserve firefighters.

 

“We need one full-time firefighter because we have a Captain retiring after 21 years on the job. We will also be adding a few part-time firefighters to the three we already employ. We are always looking for reserve or volunteer firefighters,” Frank said.

 

When it comes to reserve or volunteer firefighters, Frank acknowledged the department has had up to 10 at a time, but it is becoming harder to find those individuals.

 

“It’s hard to get volunteers because of training and time requirements. It seems most volunteer fire departments are struggling to find help. We have had a group of volunteers at our department for a long time. They can provide a lot of help because of staffing,” he acknowledged.

 

For anyone interested, applications can be picked up from the Greencastle City Hall, 1 N. Locust St., Greencastle anytime Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or visit www.cityofgreencastle.com/firedepartment and download the application. Applications will be accepted until June 10.  

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