Governor Eric J. Holcomb announced Donald VanDerMoore II as his appointment to the Owen County Circuit Court #1.

VanDerMoore will succeed Judge Lori Thatcher Quillen who retired effective Jan. 20, 2023 after serving more than 20 years.

Donald VanDerMoore II serves as the Owen County prosecutor. Prior to his current position he was the chief deputy prosecutor in Putnam County.

VanDerMoore serves on the Community Corrections Board and resides in Owen County. VanDerMoore received a bachelor of arts from Indiana University in Bloomington and a law degree from Valparaiso University.

Donald VanDerMoore will be sworn in as the Judge of the Owen County Circuit Court #1 on a date to be determined.

The Environmental Protection Agency today is scheduled to send contaminated waste from the train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, to a landfill in Roachdale. 

The shipment was expected to arrive today, according to EPA officials. 

Governor Eric J. Holcomb offered the following statement regarding the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) decision to transport hazardous materials from the East Palestine train derailment to an Indiana facility.

“I continue to object to the EPA Administrator’s decision, from Washington, D.C., to move hazardous waste from the East Palestine train derailment to Indiana. Further, there has been a lack of communication with me and other Indiana officials about this decision.

After learning third-hand that materials may be transported to our state yesterday, I directed my environmental director to reach out to the agency. The materials should go to the nearest facilities, not moved from the far eastern side of Ohio to the far western side of Indiana. I have made a request to speak to the administrator to discuss this matter. I want to know exactly what precautions will be taken in the transport and disposition of the materials.”

The landfill in Roachdale is operated by Heritage Environmental Services and specializes in hazardous waste transportation, treatment and disposal. 

In a press conference yesterday, the EPA announced it will also send waste to an incinerator in Grafton, Ohio and the agency has almost found enough certified facilities to receive the waste. 

Earlier this month, 38 train cars derailed, causing toxic vinyl chloride to escape from five tankers. The vinyl chloride was burned and state and federal officials have said there is no risk to the local community. 

It has been more than three weeks since a train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio sent contaminated waste into the ground and water. 
And, now, the Environmental Protection Agency is sending some of the waste to a landfill in Roachdale. 
The shipment was expected to arrive today, according to EPA officials. 

"We did a compliance screen of each of these sites and they are currently in compliance and we can have inspectors in collaboration with the state out there at any time," EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore said at a press conference yesterday.

The landfill in Roachdale is operated by Heritage Environmental Services and specializes in hazardous waste transportation, treatment and disposal. 
In a press conference yesterday, the EPA announced it will also send waste to an incinerator in Grafton, Ohio and the agency has almost found enough certified facilities to receive the waste. 

Earlier this month, 38 train cars derailed, causing toxic vinyl chloride to escape from five tankers. The vinyl chloride was burned and state and federal officials have said there is no risk to the local community. 

Several area fire departments responded Friday morning to 6508 South Coutny Road 475 East.

The pole barn, owned by Terry and Ashley Smith is listed as a total loss.  No injuries were reported.

The Cloverdale Township Volunteer Fire Department, Jefferson Township and Reelsville also responded with manpower from the Greencastle Fire Department.

No word on a cause to the fire at this time.  The fire was contained and out in about an hour.

A sentencing hearing was conducted in Sullivan Superior Court in the State of Indiana versus Billy Ray Grimes.

On September 23, 2022, Prosecutor Ann Mischler charged Billy Ray Grimes, 37, of Merom, with robbery resulting in serious bodily injury and violent felon in possession of a firearm.  A jury trial was conducted with Special Prosecutor Rob Roberts being the lead prosecutor.  The trial took three days and at the conclusion of the trial Grimes was found guilty on all charges. 

Due to prior felony convictions against Grimes, he received the habitual offender enhancement with a total of 40 years being handed down by Judge Hugh.

Putnamville State Police Trooper Andrew Mattern was the lead investigator.  District Commander Lieutenant David Cox commended Trooper Mattern on a thorough investigation making Sullivan County and the State of Indiana a safer place to live.

Detectives from the Indiana State Police Putnamville Post have been requested by Vermillion County Sheriff Mike Holtcamp to investigate an officer-involved shooting incident that took place on Friday.

It happened at 7:15 p.m., on State Road 71 at County Road 700 South near Dana.

Just before 7 p.m., a pursuit entered into the state of Indiana from Danville, Illinois.  Officers with the Danville Police Department attempted to stop a passenger vehicle due to a traffic violation.  The passenger vehicle disregarded the emergency lights and a pursuit then ensued.  Danville officers requested information on the license plate of the pursued vehicle and discovered the owner of the vehicle was wanted for attempted murder.  

The pursuit entered Vermillion County, Indiana, on State Road 32 traveling southbound on State Road 63 into the town of Newport. It continued onto several county roads leading to State Road 71, until the pursued vehicle became disabled and came to a stop on State Road 71 near County Road 700 South, at a residence near Dana. Several police agencies from Indiana had joined in the pursuit.

Once the pursued vehicle came to a stop, the driver stepped out and opened fire at the officers. Deputy Joey Wilson, a five-year veteran with the Vermillion County Sheriff’s Department, was struck and injured.  Officers returned fire at the suspect and immediately provided medical assistance to Deputy Wilson. 

The suspect ran east towards the residence’s barns, jumping over a fence.  Officers set up a perimeter around the area. Suddenly, a farm truck came driving out through closed barn doors towards the officers. Officers fired at the oncoming truck, striking the suspect.  Eventually, the truck came to a stop against a grain bin.

Medical assistance was immediately rendered to the suspect at the scene. He was transported to Union Hospital in Clinton, by ambulance, and then transported to Indianapolis by air ambulance for further care. 

Deputy Wilson was shot in the leg and foot.  He was taken to a local hospital by ambulance and was scheduled to have surgery.    

The suspect involved has been positively identified as Justin Henry, 46, of Urbana, Illinois.  Further investigation revealed that Henry had an active warrant for his arrest for attempted murder that was issued on February 7, out of Champaign County, Illinois.  

All officers involved in this incident have been placed on administrative leave, which is customary in officer-involved shootings.  Vermillion County deputies involved include Deputy Joey Wilson, Deputy Keith Warner, and Deputy Chad Hennis.  Also involved in the putsuit were Parke County Deputy Shawn Clover, Fountain County Deputy Ethan Stonebraker, Rockville Police Department Officer Ian Redman, as well as Master Trooper Charles Murphy of the Indiana State Police.  

Agencies involved in this incident include the Indiana State Police, Vermillion County Sheriff’s Department, Parke County Sheriff’s Department, Fountain County Sheriff’s Department, Vigo County Sheriff’s Department, Rockville Police Department, as well as the Danville Police Department out of Illinois. 

The investigation is being conducted by Indiana State Police detectives, Jason Schoffstall, Don Curtis, Michael Featherling, Ryan Winters, and Angie Hahn, with assistance from Lieutenant Jeff Hearon, First Sergeant Brian Maudlin, CSI Lieutenant Jim Cody, Sergeant Michael Organ, and Sergeant Tim Rader of the Putnamville State Police Post.

Upon completion of their investigation, Indiana State Police detectives will submit a full report of the incident to the Vermillion County Prosecutor’s Office for review and determination of charges filed.

Ever since 1988, Habitat for Humanity in Putnam County has been offering a "hand up, not a handout."

With 19 homes built, rehabbed or remodeled during that time, Habitat for Humanity continues to make an impact in Putnam County. 

The impact can be felt not only across the county, but by the families who are selected and have to help with the build, as families have to put in about 500 hours of "sweat equity," which can include clearing land, assisting with the build, remodel or rehab, pay a pro-rated mortgage and help with the cost of supplies by reimbursing Habitat for Humanity for materials. 

"Despite some popular opinions, Habitat does not "give away free homes." The family works side by side with volunteers, and will then receive an interest free mortgage, based on ability to pay," executive director David English told The Putnam County Post. 

English said he enjoys many things about his position with the Putnam County Habitat for Humanity. 

"It is a very gratifying experience to see the community in which I was raised to step-up and allow, via all there various types of Donations, Putnam County Habitat for Humanity, to be able to provide affordable housing to a family," said English, who graduated from Bainbridge High School. 

English said there are many ways a person in the county can get involved with Habitat for Humanity. 

"One can volunteer in many ways, such as becoming a board member, helping with fund raising projects, helping at the build site or being a financial partner by sponsoring an event, being a sustaining donor or a one time donor for a specific project," English said. 

English said volunteers are currently being recruited to help complete a remodel project for a disabled Vietnam veteran. 

"The couple lives in Greencastle and worked until retirement age, as most of us do. While working, they saved their money in order to be able to remodel their home, making it more functional in their retirement. Unfortunately, during this time, the wife suffered two heart attacks and the husband incurred several mini strokes, possibly related to his Vietnam experience. He does draw a partial disability from the VA, but this and their savings have gone to medical expenses, instead of their desire to remodel the home," English said. 

English said the kitchen floor in the house is currently sagging and is a hazard to the stability of the residents. 

 "They applied to Habitat for a Remodel Project, and were accepted for such. They will reimburse Habitat for Materials used in the Remodel, and Habitat provides the Labor, via Volunteers, at no cost to them. As we all are cognizant of, the cost of labor often supersedes the material needed to complete a project. Habitat will be pulling-up the old flooring, down to the floor supports, replacing all the floor supports, then laying new sub-flooring and waterproof flooring,  removing the tub/shower combination, and installing a walk-in-shower for safety, redoing some of the cabinetry in the Kitchen, adding one lower cabinet, and placing tile behind the kitchen sink, and installing a dishwasher. Please keep in mind, that the home owners are paying for all materials and items placed in the home during the remodel," English said.

English said volunteers will be needed ranging from general labor to people with flooring experience, plumbing knowledge and experience using power tools. 

"It is a very small house, but perfect for this couple's needs in their retirement. We hope to average daily crews of three to five people and complete the project in seven to ten days. The family will not be living in the home during this time which allows our volunteers to have access to the house at all times that are convenient to the volunteers. We have a construction manager, Don Hatfield, who will be coordinating the work and the volunteer schedule. Habitat will commence the project as soon as we can pull together our volunteer team. 

In addition, volunteers can help Habitat for Humanity by attending the organization's annual dinner, which is slated for March 11 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Owl Ridge Event Center. 

The cost is $45.00 per person, or a table of six (6) for $240.00, which is a group savings of $30.

Also, there is annual Golf Scramble, which is scheduled for June 16 at Clover Meadows Golf Course. The cost is $300 for a foursome or $75 for an individual and sponsorships are available, as well as a lunch sponsorship and hole sponsorships.  

In addition, the Second Annual Fall Gala will be held at Three Fat Labs later this year. 

The events are important to help further push the mission of Habitat for Humanity, as Putnam County faces a "critical" housing situation and is less than affordable, according to English. 

"We know through various studies and research that a stablish housing situation provides these benefits -- stability allowing children a better opportunity to be successful in school, parents to be successful in their work environment or careers, and, on a more mundane level, it provides for stability and growth in community and enhances the property tax rolls/revenue, which allows for more money for schools and other community needs. We all strive for stability in our lives, and I appreciate the opportunity to be a contributing party to such," English said. 

He also said that working with people from all walks of life is something he thoroughly enjoys. 

"Works such as this reveals the true nature of people within our community. The number of people who care and are caring and want to help is a bright spot in my day, despite the nay-sayers who state that we cannot get these projects done for one reason or another. I have always been one in my career to want to accept those challenges, and prove people wrong by completing a project that some said could not be done. Furthermore, the people, from all walks of life, that I get to meet and interact with during these projects. Work such as this, reveals the true nature of people within our community. The number of people who care and are caring, and want to help, is a bright spot in my day, despite the nay-sayers who state that we cannot get these projects done for one reason or another. I have always been one in my career to want to accept those challenges, and prove people wrong, by completing a project that some said could not be done. The respect I have for the board members that persevered till the end in this project is tremendous; and I thank them with all my heart and soul. The businesses I have had the privilege of working with, reflect the spirit of our county, and the people that make-up the community," English said. 

For more information or to get involved, call the Habitat office at 765-653-5360 or email putnamhabitat@gmail.com, or, execdirputnamhabitat@icloud.com.

The Parke County Sheriff's Department posted information regarding an investigation into poor treatment of an animal.

Sgt. Shay Vandivier obtained a court order to seize a horse from a residence, in the Judson area.

The animal is now in the care of an area equine rescue.

A report for animal neglect is being reviewed by the Parke County Prosecutor’s Office.

The Indiana Board of Animal Health assisted in the investigation.

The Indiana Department of Transportation is underway with a project in Putnam County.

Crews are performing bridge maintenance work I-70 EB / WB between Meridian Line Road and U.S. 231 (Cloverdale).

At least one lane will be restricted nightly, through mid-March, weather permitting.

The 500 Festival has announced the 33 Indiana women selected to serve as 2023 500 Festival Princesses. Two of them call Putnam County home.

Gayle Baugh, of Greencastle, is a graduate of Cloverdale High School, and a junior at Vincennes majoring in elementary and special education. 

Darcie Cox, of Roachdale, is a graduate of North Putnam High School, and a sophomore at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, majoring in elementary

The Princesses represent 19 Indiana colleges and universities and 21 cities and towns across the state.

With a cumulative GPA of 3.71, this year’s 500 Festival Princesses were selected from hundreds of applicants based on leadership, academic stewardship and  community involvement. This year’s class represents a diverse group of women with a range of areas of study that include nursing, elementary education, business, engineering, sports media, and pre-med. 

Each year, the Princesses conduct more than 1,500 hours of community outreach impacting more than 50,000 people, expanding the celebration and impact of the Indianapolis 500 in a meaningful way.  

The 500 Festival Princesses also participate in the 500 Festival Leadership Development Program, presented by FORVIS, which empowers participants to make a profound impact within their community and the state of Indiana.

In addition, each Princess will receive a $1,000 scholarship for their education.  

A Terre Haute man has been charged in Parke County with possession of child pornography and illegal communication with a child.

Predator Hunters of Indiana contacted the Rockville Police Department regarding a fake social media account involving an online conversation with someone posing as a 12-year old girl with Harry Pumphrey, 50.

Predator Hunters said that Pumphrey had set up a face-to-face meeting with the person he thought was the 12-year old girl.  According to police, Pumphrey admitted he planned to meet the girl.

A search of Pumphrey's property yielded a large amount of child porn and gifts that he intended to give to girls he planned to meet.

Pumphrey was also charged with child solicitation in Parke County.

In honor of National FFA Week, seven Indiana State FFA Officers and National Officer, MacKenna Clifton of North Carolina, met in the Statehouse to receive a proclamation and resolution declaring Feb. 18-25 Indiana FFA Week.

“It was a pleasure to have these outstanding young professionals representing the State of Indiana and agriculture so well in the Statehouse today,” said Lt. Gov. Crouch, Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “FFA is a dynamic youth led organization and I am excited to celebrate National FFA Week this week and agriculture year-round.”

Gov. Eric Holcomb signed the proclamation to name this week FFA Week in recognition of all the work the Indiana FFA Organization, agriculture educators and FFA advisors do to cultivate the next generation of agriculturists for our state.

During the week, chapters across the state and nation will host a variety of events to educate, advocate and celebrate the agricultural industry. From a school animal experience to a farmer’s breakfast, these activities pay homage to the dedication and commitment of today’s agriculturalists. Throughout the week, the Indiana FFA State Officers travel the state to participate in activities alongside local FFA chapters and their communities.

The Indiana FFA Association also received a Senate Concurrent Resolution highlighting the impact of the FFA Organization, which is preparing more than 13,000 members in 90 of Indiana’s 92 counties for the over 250 unique careers in the food, fiber and natural resource sectors. The resolution was led by Sen. Jean Leising, Senate District 42 and Rep. Michael Aylesworth, House District 11.

Jenna Kelsay, 2022-2023 Indiana FFA Southern Region Vice President shared what this resolution means to her and the FFA Organization.

“Receiving the proclamation and house concurrent resolution today in the Indiana Statehouse was such an exciting way to kick-off National FFA Week,” said Kelsay. “Indiana FFA and its members are so fortunate to have support and recognition from our states agricultural leaders and elected officials.”

Tamara Ketchen, Director of the Indiana FFA Association, is looking forward to seeing all the work done this week at FFA chapters across the state.

“National FFA Week is a time for local chapters to highlight their programs showcasing their success and passion for agriculture,” Ketchen said. “We also use this as an opportunity to recognize community supporters and broadcast the mission of the organization.”

FFA members are agriculture’s future leaders, future food suppliers, future innovators and more! Whether it is through service projects or community gatherings, National FFA Week is a time for FFA members to raise awareness about agricultural education and the role the National FFA Organization plays in the development of agriculture's future leaders.

The first National FFA week was held in 1948, when the National FFA Board of Directors designated a weeklong celebration to recognize George Washington’s example and legacy as a leader and farmer. For the past 75 years, FFA members across the country have taken part in agricultural, leadership and service-based activities during National FFA Week.

Visit www.inffa.org to learn more about Indiana FFA.

Starbucks is at the center of a recall because there may be glass in the bottle of a product.

The FDA says the recall applies to the 13.7 ounce Starbucks frappuccino vanilla chilled coffee drink. More than 25, 000 cases were distributed.  They were sold in 12-botte cases.

The voluntary recall is considered "Class II." That means the "probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote."

Expiration dates on the recalled bottles include:

MAR 08 23

MAY 29 23

JUN 04 23

JUN 10 23

The Postal Service is hosting a weekend Hiring Workshop to fill positions in Indianapolis and surrounding areas.

The event will take place on Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 25 and Feb. 26 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day, at the Greenwood Package Sorting Annex, 800 Commerce Pkwy West Dr., Suite A, in Greenwood. 

Openings are available for numerous positions with a staring pay range up to $30.33 per hour.

USPS personnel will be on site to provide detailed information about the positions and answer questions. Applications are accepted online only at www.usps.com/careers. Applicants must be available to work weekends and holidays and have an acceptable driving record.

See online job postings for full details. Postings are updated frequently. Job seekers should check often for additional opportunities.

The annual summary recording nationwide grain dust bin explosions reported nine incidents in 2022.

This compares to seven reported incidents in 2021 and a 10-year average of 7.8 explosions annually.

Kingsly Ambrose, Purdue University professor of agricultural and biological engineering and report author, said that despite the increase in explosions from the previous year and 18 total injuries this year, no fatalities were reported.

The explosions occurred in one ethanol plant, two feed mills, two grain elevators, two rice mills and two grain processing plants. The probable ignition sources were identified in three cases as a fire and one incidence as welding, while five cases were from unknown sources. Fuel sources for all nine explosions were identified as grain dust.

The dust explosions occurred in seven different states, with two each occurring in Arkansas and Louisiana, and one each in New Mexico, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas and Ohio.

“Often, five of the conditions needed for a grain dust explosion to occur are present in most grain feed, milling and processing facilities,” Ambrose said. “These conditions include dust, dispersed dust, confined space and oxygen. The presence of the fifth factor, an ignition source such as overheated bearing or mechanical friction, could lead to an explosion.”

He emphasized the importance of developing and implementing a detailed housekeeping program to mitigate the hazards and utilizing government and industry resources that are publicly available to provide guidance on developing such a program.

The City of Greencastle announced that Miller Pipeline will begin work on the Albin Pond Water Line replacement project starting February 27.

This $2.13 million investment, funded in part by a grant from the State of Indiana, represents a significant improvement to the city’s water system.

The water line replacement will run along Arlington Street from Shadowlawn then out Albin Pond Road to Castleton Drive. Preliminary work will include locating other underground utilities, digging test holes, and staging of supplies and materials.  

Weather permitting, work will begin on February 27. The schedule may have to be adjusted depending on weather or other conditions. The contract calls for work to be completed by November 7.

Parts of the water line will require open trench type construction and other parts will be installed using directional boring.

The installation of the water main is scheduled as follows:

February 27: Arlington Street – from Shadowlawn to 509 Arlington

March 10: Arlington Street – from 509 North Arlington to 533 North Arlington

March 17: Arlington Street – from 533 Arlington to 708 Albin Pond Road

March 31: Albin Pond Road – from 708 Albin Pond Road to Ravenswood Drive

April 17: Albin Pond Road – from Raveswood Drive to Castleton Drive

April 24: Albin Pond Road – from Castleton Drive to 1201 Albin Pond Road

May 9: Albin Pond Road – from 1201 Albin Pond to east of Toddson Drive

After the installation of the water main, work will continue to tie the new water main to other existing water mains, switch over individual water services to the new water main, and install several new valves.   Miller Pipeline will contact property owners when water services are switched between the old and new water mains.

Miller Pipeline will maintain traffic and access during the work. To assist with the work, adjoining residents are asked not to park on the street during the construction period.

The project also involves replacing several fire hydrants and valves at scattered sites around the community.

“We appreciate our partnership with the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs to bring about these improvements,” said Mayor Bill Dory. “Our Board of Works and Water Utility has pursued this project to eliminate the numerous water line breaks along Albin Pond Road and improve the long-term reliability of our system.”

“We also appreciate the patience of our neighbors along the project site.  The work will be disruptive for a period of time,” noted Dory. “While the disruption will last several months, the improvements will benefit the community for more than 50 years.”

Emergency Management Agencies (EMAs) often work behind the scenes without gaining attention until events like snowy weather, floods, tornadoes, etc. Governor Eric J. Holcomb is honoring this group of critical personnel by celebrating EMA Appreciation Week Feb. 19-25.

EMAs are part of the first line of response to natural and man-made disasters. County emergency managers help draft disaster response plans, organize trainings that include first responders and community partners, work with state and federal agencies to find the most effective disaster recovery methods and offer knowledge and expertise to local community leaders.

“Emergency managers play a pivotal role in their counties. Their decisions carry a heavy weight on how a community responds to and recovers from a significant incident or event,” said Joel Thacker, executive director of IDHS. 

Every emergency begins and ends locally, like the COVID-19 pandemic that impacted all 92 Indiana counties. It is important for Hoosiers to recognize the dedication and accomplishments of these highly-trained professionals. 

IDHS will be celebrating EMAs on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Follow along to learn about the people putting in countless hours to keep you safe. 

The Fillmore Community Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary has announced on social media that it has called off Saturday's scheduled breakfast event.

The announcement on Facebook:  Due to loss of power overnight we need to take time to make sure our freezer and refrigerator is running correctly. Making sure all perishables are good. With this being said we are going to cancel our breakfast February 18.

We will have our spaghetti dinner March 4.

Next breakfast will be April 15.

Recently, the Indiana Department of Workforce Development and the Indiana Association for Adult and Continuing Education honored Hoosier adult learners and Indiana employers at the 2023 Adult Education Day ceremony, held at the Indiana Statehouse.

"DWD is assisting individuals by continuously providing opportunities to increase their knowledge, skills and abilities through various programs and services our agency administers and our partners offer throughout Indiana," said DWD Commissioner David J. Adams.

Among the employers honored was Crown Equipment Corporation of Greencastle.

Through numerous programs, adult education students earn credentials, receive post-secondary education, achieve sustainable employment and ultimately reach economic self-sufficiency. In Indiana, 70% of adult learners are employed after earning their HSE and experience an average wage increase of $8,400 annually. In 2022, 3,795 Hoosier adult learners earned their high school equivalency.

"Indiana remains a leader in providing adult education programming that transforms the lives of Hoosier job seekers and workers," said DWD Associate Chief Workforce Strategy and Design Marilyn Pitzulo. "Hoosiers learning new skills and completing their high school equivalency or certification are upskilling to meet the needs of Indiana employers. Congratulations to each business for making an investment in its employees and for the learners who are earning higher wages and increasing their career opportunities."

There are more than 250 adult education class locations – in-person or online - in the state that give students opportunities to increase skills, learn English, access training, obtain industry-recognized credentials and earn a higher-paying job.

"I was making around $11 an hour in a job I had for several years but I felt I was never going anywhere in my career," said Brandy Gilstrap, a Greene County resident. "I enrolled in a 10-week certification program with an adult education provider and graduated last April. I finally feel freedom."

Gilstrap now works as emergency medical technician in Sullivan County.

During the ceremony, 16 business partners were recognized for offering adult education classes to their staff. Employers were honored for one or more of the following:

• Providing employees’ wages for attending adult education classes;
• Supplying classroom space and computers or other technology to support students;
• Providing other classroom materials and supplies;
• Funding the cost to pay teachers and instructors; and
• Offering permanent employment to workers who successfully completed classes.

"The partnership between the Indianapolis dormakaba manufacturing plant and Warren Township Adult Education has proven to be a great success," said Ty Howard, a senior human resources manager at dormakaba's Indianapolis plant. "This program has had a positive impact on communication and engagement within the workplace, leading to a sense of belonging among employees. It also increases worker competency, leading to potential growth opportunities within and outside the company."

Adult Education programming is administered by DWD and has a presence in all of Indiana’s 92 counties. Indiana is among the nation’s top states in multiple adult ed categories:

• No. 1 for student achievement and growth;
• No. 2 for the number of high school equivalency diplomas awarded; and
• No. 4 for certificates earned through Integrated Education and Training.

Beginning on May 1, judicial officers around the state will have the authority to allow news media into their courtrooms to record, photograph, and broadcast court proceedings that are not confidential.

Rule 2.17 of the Code of Judicial Conduct has long prohibited broadcasting, recording, or taking photographs of court proceedings and areas adjacent to courtrooms without prior approval by the Indiana Supreme Court. An order amending Rule 2.17, effective May 1, gives the discretion to allow cameras to the local judges.

“This is the culmination of years of work and pilot projects with discussion and evaluation,” said Chief Justice Loretta H. Rush. “Trial court judges are in the best position to determine how to balance the importance of transparency while protecting the rights of people involved in a court matter.”

This change follows a 4-month pilot program, a public comment period, and careful evaluation by the Indiana Supreme Court. Longtime work by the Indiana Judicial Conference Community Relations Committee and Court Security Committee, along with the Hoosier State Press Association and the Indiana Broadcasters Association, led to the most recent pilot project. The judges who opened their courtrooms during the pilot—Judges Fran Gull, Marianne Vorhees, Bruce Parent, Sean Persin, and Leslie Shively—provided essential feedback.

Under the new rule, cameras are still prohibited in court unless authorized by the judge. Commentary included with the rule provides further conditions; for example, certain people—including minors and jurors—may not be shown on camera, only news media as defined in Ind. Code 34-46-4-1 may be authorized, and the judge may revoke authorization at any time for any reason.

In conjunction with School Counseling Week, the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) today announced recipients of $5 million in funding, which will support 26 school districts, charter schools and community partners to further develop and expand school counseling services and resources that improve student achievement, well-being and college and career readiness.

Successful applications specified how grant funding would improve counselor-to-student ratios as well as establish or further strengthen partnerships with community organizations and employers.

Southwest Parke Community School Corporation was granted $65,430.

“School counselors are uniquely positioned to provide students with a number of important services, including guidance in completing all necessary courses and other graduation requirements, encouraging exploration of career and postsecondary opportunities and overall well-being support,” said Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education. “The recipients of this grant understand the importance of comprehensive school counseling and the range of support our students need in order to reach their full potential. With this additional funding, they will be better equipped to support the needs of their community, and ultimately, move the needle for their students.”

To further support student achievement, well-being and college and career readiness, IDOE identified three key goals when establishing the Comprehensive School Counseling Grant:

1. Expand the number of Indiana schools providing a comprehensive school counseling program;
2. Explicitly define the role of a school counselor in improving student outcomes as it pertains to the five student characteristics of Indiana Graduates Prepared to Succeed;
3. Create a network of progress monitoring to assess effectiveness and identify areas in need of additional local support and guidance.

Funding for the Comprehensive School Counseling Grant is allocated as part of the state’s federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief plan.

Through this grant, more than 117,000 students across 17 Indiana counties will be supported.

The Putnam County Public Library has placed the first of several planned Library Express stations across the county. Beginning in February, residents around Russellville can pick up or drop off library materials at the Library Express location at Tri-County Bank & Trust. At the opening of the initial Express stop, bank CEO Chuck Dixon and his team also presented a $500 donation to the Library.

The Library Express stations are the culmination of a year of work on the project as well as partnerships between chosen locations and the library. The stations house material pick-up lockers, a free community book exchange shelf, and a dropbox for returning library materials. This will be in addition to the library’s existing outreach delivery service. The funding for the construction of the Library Express stops was provided in memory of Elizabeth L. Baughman.

“We are really excited to have a physical presence in several Putnam county communities outside of Greencastle. The Express Stops will allow patrons to pick up and return library materials when it is most convenient for them and their schedules.,” said Library Director Matt McClelland. “We owe a big thank you to CEO Chuck Dixon and his team at Tri-County Bank for making this first location a reality and for their generous donation.”

The Russellville location is the first of four locations planned for the county. The library’s outreach coordinator will deliver and pick-up materials on a regular schedule. Since the library announced their movement to being a fine-free library, materials dropped off in the Library Express dropboxes will incur no fines, even if they are returned or picked up late.

“I am so looking forward to making new connections throughout the county with patrons who would prefer a delivery service,” said Circulation Manager and outreach coordinator Conni Neiswinger. “This is a wonderful opportunity and I look forward to making new connections with patrons.”

To learn more about the Library Express stations or to place an order for materials, please call the library at 765-653-2755 or email library staff at outreach@pcpl21.org.

_{Left to Right: Paige Hoover, CEO Chuck Dixon, Director Matt McClelland, Marilyn Wehrman, Della Eastep, Steve McLaughlin}

The Greencastle Police Department is asking for the public's help in a recent rash of vandalism cases.

According to police, they are investigating at least 14 vehicles that have window or body damage after being shot at by BB or pellet guns over the weekend.  

The neighborhoods impacted were North Arlington Street, Meadow Drive, East Washington Street, Elm Street and Maple Ave.

In each incident, nothing was reported missing. 

The police are asking homeowners to check their surveillance cameras and call in any tips to 653-2925.

Ever since 1985, the Putnam County Community Foundation has been serving current and future generations in Putnam County. 

And, according to Neysa Meyer, executive director of the foundation, that mission will continue in 2023. 

"We bring together the financial resources of families, individuals and organizations who care about Putnam County and then invest those resources back into the community," Meyer told The Putnam County Post.

Meyer said a goal for the foundation this year is to serve as a "community catalyst." 

"We are passionate about improving the quality of life in the communities we serve, and it is essential to incorporate the voices of individuals and families by our work. To that end, we seek a better understanding of the most pressing issues and areas of need here in Putnam County and will conduct a community needs assessment later this year," Meyer said. 

She admits the results will be used to help the foundation prioritize needs in Putnam County and will, ultimately, utilize the date internally to shape grants and programs, along with sharing the foundation's results with its philanthropic partners. 

Meyer was recently honored by the Putnam County Chamber as the Director of the Year, and she admits she is "grateful" for the opportunity to serve on the board. 

"The Putnam County Chamber of Commerce has played a critical role throughout our county for years, and I am excited about the wonderful things ahead," Meyer said. 

Putnam and Parke counties were in the top 10 in the state for deer taken during the last hunting season.

Parke County was eighth overall with 2,222. 

Putnam was next in line, in ninth place with 2,180. That compares to 1,984 last season.

Steuben County was tops in the state with 3,239. It was the only county in the state with over 3,000 deer harvested.

Neighboring county totals included:

Clay County - 1,251

Morgan - 1460

Montgomery - 1101

Hendricks - 702

Owen - 1668

Metronet celebrated its new Greencastle storefront at an open house on Thursday.

Since 2005, the ultra-high-speed fiber optic provider has connected homes and businesses throughout Greencastle, installing more than 250 miles of 100 percent fiber optic internet. As Metronet continues to serve Greencastle, the company continues to expand service availability, ensuring that symmetrical gigabit speeds are available to as much of the community as possible while also having access to unparalleled, local customer service.

The Metronet office had been located in Greencastle’s downtown since 2012 when the company purchased the building at 15 S. Indiana Street.

Metronet's Bonnie Duplessis says the move to the new storefront location at 1360 Indianapolis Road, Suite H, puts them near their original office of years ago.

Metronet’s Greencastle storefront provides customers with the opportunity to learn more about Metronet’s gigabit, 100 percent fiber optic speeds and service offerings. Customers may now visit the newly opened storefront to sign up for service plans and speak with Customer Care Associates face-to-face.

Duplessis says Greencastle is special to Metronet.

As a leading fiber optic internet provider, Metronet provides innovative technological communication speeds to over 250 communities in 16 states across the U.S. With an expanded presence in Greencastle, Metronet will continue to support more communities across the state with access to a 100 percent fiber optic infrastructure that has the ability to provide multi-gigabit speeds of up to 10GB.

Duplessis says Metronet continues to grow and expand especially as Indiana government focuses on expanding broadband service across the state.

“Metronet has committed to investing in communities across the country, and that all began right here in Greencastle nearly 18 years ago. Our network of high-quality, ultra-high-speed connections have proven to enhance operations for businesses and homeowners alike,” said John Cinelli, Metronet CEO. “We are grateful for the support we have received from the City of Greencastle and how this partnership has allowed us to ensure that more communities can have access to the life-changing speeds that only fiber optic internet can provide. We look forward to seeing how this new storefront allows us to continue serving Greencastle.”

As a leading fiber optic internet provider, Metronet provides innovative technological communication speeds to over 250 communities in 16 states across the U.S. With an expanded presence in Greencastle, Metronet will continue to support more communities across the state with access to a 100 percent fiber optic infrastructure that has the ability to provide multi-gigabit speeds of up to 10GB.

The Indiana House of Representatives recently advanced legislation co-authored by State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) that would phase-in a complete state income-tax exemption for military pay earned by active duty members.

Baird said unlike active duty National Guard and reserve members who are exempt from the individual income tax, other active duty members can qualify for a maximum $5,000 exemption. House Bill 1034, which now moves to the Indiana Senate for consideration, would start with a 25% exemption on military pay in 2024, 50% exemption in 2025, 75% exemption in 2026, and end with a full exemption by 2027.

"This bill reflects our honor and respect for those men and women who wear our nation's uniform," Baird said. "We want to encourage these hard-working individuals to call Indiana home, especially as they transition to the civilian workforce. Our employers want and need their skills and talents."

Baird said Indiana is already facing a skilled labor shortage, with more than 85,000 open job opportunities. He said veterans, with the necessary leadership and technical skills, could help fill these positions and help drive the workforce.

Neighboring states including Michigan and Kentucky offer a complete military income tax exemption for residents.

For more information and to follow legislative proceedings, visit iga.in.gov.

Five people have been convicted and sentenced to prison for their roles in a nationwide fraud scheme that targeted senior citizens.

A Crawfordsville woman was one of the dozens of victims.

Following a years-long investigation, each defendant pled guilty to mail fraud and money laundering charges. Investigators identified over 68 victims of the defendants’ crimes and identified losses totaling over $683,464.

The federal court imposed the following sentences:

According to court documents, from at least April 2020 and continuing for roughly 11 months, the defendants and other co-conspirators targeted and exploited the elderly and their relationships with their relatives for personal financial gain. Known as a “grandparent scam,” this criminal network exploited elderly Americans’ love for their family members making them believe a close relative was in extreme danger and inducing them to send thousands of dollars to “help.” 

The defendants’ role in the scheme was to retrieve, transport, and launder the money the elderly victims were induced to send. The defendants traveled to cities throughout the United States to identify unoccupied houses where overnight packages could be sent and retrieved without detection, and then relay those addresses to their co-conspirators. Those co-conspirators then placed phone calls to seniors in Indiana and around the country claiming that their grandchild or other relative had an urgent legal or medical problem and needed money immediately. The caller, who often claimed to be an attorney, police officer, or other authority figure, told the victim to send an overnight delivery of cash—typically between $5,000 and $15,000—to the address the defendants provided. The defendants tracked the overnight package of cash to the address, picked it up shortly after delivery, and then took their cut of the proceeds before sharing it with their co-conspirators. 

For example, according to court documents, one of the victims, age 82, from Crawfordsville, Indiana, was falsely told that her daughter had been in an accident and was in legal trouble because a gun was found in her vehicle. In addition to asking for money urgently, the caller allegedly told the victim that there was a “gag order” in her daughter’s case, to prevent the victim from contacting law enforcement or other family members. Concerned for her daughter’s welfare, the Crawfordsville victim sent a total of $12,500 in cash to the defendants.

Each defendant was ordered to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in restitution to the victims for their roles in the scheme, and each was ordered to serve between one and three years of supervised release following their release from prison.

The Metro Drug Task Force, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, and the United States Postal Inspection Service investigated the case. The investigation was supported by the Baltimore Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Chicago Division of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Marshal’s Service, and state and local law enforcement partners in Orleans, Massachusetts; Bartonville, Illinois; Starkville, Mississippi; New York, New York; Ossining, New York; Westchester County, New York; Delaware County, Ohio; Hermantown, Pennsylvania; Charleston, South Carolina; Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; Sumter County, South Carolina; Hendersonville, Tennessee; Sumner County, Tennessee; Hurst, Texas; and Richmond, Virginia.

“These scams ruthlessly exploited older Americans and their concern for their loved ones,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Each of these defendants will have years in federal prison to reflect on how their scheme harmed the seniors they targeted. These sentences demonstrate the ongoing commitment of our office, and our federal, state, and local partners to investigate and prosecute these despicable elder fraud schemes.”

“These defendants and their co-conspirators preyed on the good nature of people.  The sentences in this case reinforce the justice system’s intolerance for people who take advantage of others”, said IRS-CI Chicago Field Office Special Agent in Charge Justin Campbell.  “IRS-Criminal Investigation is committed to working with our law enforcement partners at the federal, state, local, and international levels to find and prosecute people who scam others out of their hard-earned money.”

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is committed to investigating fraudulent imposter schemes designed to defraud innocent victims,” said Rodney M. Hopkins, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge, Detroit Division.  “Combating fraud schemes is a priority of the Postal Inspection Service given that a significant amount of the money in these frauds is sent through the United States mail.  We are actively taking steps to educate Americans about the dangers of frauds that target our elderly citizens.” 

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys MaryAnn T. Mindrum and Nicholas J. Linder who prosecuted this case.

The Justice Department has established a National Elder Fraud Hotline to provide services to seniors who may be victims of financial fraud. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is available at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish, and other languages are available.  

This Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The best method for prevention, however, is by sharing information about the various types of elder fraud schemes with relatives, friends, neighbors, and other seniors who can use that information to protect themselves. 

Colgate-Palmolive is recalling 4.9 million bottles of its Fabuloso multi-purpose cleaner.

This recall involves certain Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaners, which is a multi-purpose cleaner that can be used to clean most residential hard surfaces. The first eight digits of the lot code of the recalled products are 2348US78 through 2365US78 and 3001US78 through 3023US78. A list of the UPC, lot codes and complete list of products, can be found at www.Fabulosorecall.com.

No Fabuloso Antibacterial variants or other Fabuloso products are impacted by this recall. The following Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaners are included in this recall.

The recalled products can contain Pseudomonas species bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas fluorescens, which are environmental organisms found widely in soil and water.  People with weakened immune systems, external medical devices, or underlying lung conditions who are exposed to the bacteria face a risk of serious infection that may require medical treatment. The bacteria can enter the body if inhaled, through the eyes, or through a break in the skin.

People with healthy immune systems are usually not affected by the bacteria. 

The products were sold online at Amazon.com and other websites and at Dollar General, Family Dollar, The Home Depot, Sam’s Club, Walmart, and other major retailers nationwide from December 2022 through January 2023 for between $1 and $11.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaner products and contact Colgate-Palmolive Company for a full refund or a free replacement product. To receive a refund or replacement, consumers should take a picture of the product’s UPC and lot code and dispose of the product in its container with household trash. The consumer recall form can be found on www.fabulosorecall.com.

Do not empty the product prior to disposal.

Parke County law enforcement had to use a stun gun on a man after he did donuts in a resident's yard.

Deputies responded to a call in Bloomingdale of an intoxicated person.  Christopher Million, 36, of Cory, resisted arrest and the stun gun was used.  

Million was charged with resisting law enforcement, leaving the scene of a property damage accident, operating a vehicle while intoxicated and public intoxication.

It will be a quiet primary in Putnam County for municipal races in 2023.

There are no contested races on either the Republican or Democrat side of the ballot.

Two mayoral candidates highlight the list.  Greencastle Clerk-Treasurer Lynda Dunbar on the Republican side and former Putnam County Chamber of Commerce Director Brian Cox Brian Cox as a Democrat have filed.

Incumbent Bill Dory is not running for re-election.

Democratic city councilmen Dave Murray and Adam Cohen also will not seek re-election.

Independents still have until July 3 to file for the November general election ballot.

The National Weather Service has issued a high wind watch for Thursday.

The watch remains in effect from Thursday morning through Thursday evening.

Thursday’s forecast includes shower and thunderstorm possibilities as temperatures continue to push into the upper 50s.

Southwest winds on Thursday are expected to be 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 55 mph possible.

Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines leaving power outages a possibility. Also, travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

Counties in the watch are include: Adams, Allen, Benton, Blackford, Boone, Carroll, Cass, Clinton, DeKalb, Delaware, Elkhart, Fountain, Fulton, Grant, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Henry, Howard, Huntington, Jasper, Jay, Kosciusko, Johnson, Lagrange, Lake, LaPorte, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Miami, Montgomery, Morgan, Newton, Noble, Parke, Porter, Pulaski, Putnam, Randolph, Rush, St. Joseph, Shelby, Starke, Steuben, Tippecanoe, Tipton, Vermillion, Wabash, Warren, Wells, White, and Whitley.

February 7 is Safer Internet Day.

The United States Attorney’s Office Southern District of Indiana is asking all law enforcement partners and media to join the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana and the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force in bringing awareness to the crime of financial sextortion. Financial sextortion is an online exploitation crime directed toward youth in which threats are used to demand money from the victim. 

The goal is to highlight the issue of sextortion, specifically focusing on financial sextortion and the importance of children knowing they can always get help.

• Safer Internet Day US information and resources; https://saferinternetday.us/
• Promote the ICAC Webinar (open to the public): Self-Generated Content and Sextortion Awareness and Prevention – February 7^th, Register Here

• View/share Thorn’s Stop Sextortion video: https://www.stopsextortion.com/
• View/share the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s Sextortion posters, videos, or resources Here

SOCIAL MEDIA HASHTAGS:

#SID2023/ICAC

#SaferInternetDay

#StartTheConversation

#InternetSafety

A Warren Township home listed as being owned by a James Skinner is a total loss after a weekend fire.

Cloverdale Township Volunteer Fire Department and the Greencastle Fire Department initially responded.  Reelsville, Fillmore and Putnamville Correctional also provided aid.

The Cataract Volunteer Fire Department covered calls at Cloverdale.

The home was fully engulfed when firefighters arrived.

The fire was out before midnight Saturday.  No official cause has been given.

No injuries were reported.

Honda and the U.S. government are warning owners of over 8000 vehicles to not drive them until air bag inflators are replaced.

A "Do Not Drive" advisory was issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on Friday issued a “Do Not Drive” advisory for 2001 through 2003 vehicles with Takata inflators.  The inflators have the ability to explode and hurl shrapnel through the vehicle.

The Alpha inflators have a 50% chance of exploding in a crash.

The vehicles have been recalled before but records show no repair made in over 8000.  Honda says it has replaced 99% of the damgerous inflators.

Vehicles affected include the 2001 and 2002 Honda Accord and Civic, the 2002 Honda CR-V and Odyssey SUVs, the 2003 Honda Pilot, the 2002 and 2003 Acura 3.2 TL and the 2003 Acura 3.2 CL.

Owners can check to see if their cars are covered by going to https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls and keying in their 17-digit vehicle identification number.

The Purdue University Board of Trustees on Friday endorsed President Mung Chiang’s request for a 12th consecutive tuition freeze, meaning students will see no increase in tuition through at least the 2024-25 academic year.

To be formally approved by the trustees in late spring per state statute, after the legislative budget setting, base undergraduate tuition at Purdue will remain at $9,992 per year for Indiana residents and $28,794 for out-of-state students through 2024-25.

The total cost of attending Purdue continues to be less today than in 2012, with tuition held flat and lower room and board rates. The tuition freeze saves students over $150 million per year for a cumulative total of over a billion dollars, compared to if Purdue had instituted annual increases at the Big Ten average, and debt per undergraduate student has declined 36% since 2012. By 2024-25, 10 graduating classes will have never experienced a tuition increase during their time at Purdue.

At the same time, more students than ever are seeking a Purdue degree – more than 71,000 applied for admission for Fall 2023 – and more employers than ever are seeking out Purdue graduates. Last fall, total enrollment reached a record 50,884 students and marked the university’s eighth straight record high. That total includes 37,949 undergrads – also a record.

“Purdue remains committed to the vision of higher education with the highest proven value,” Chiang said. “This proposal of another year of tuition freeze, and the endorsement by the Board of Trustees, continues Purdue’s national leadership in student access and success.”

In addition to the growing number of applicants for enrollment from across the country, evidence of Purdue’s enhanced national profile include being the only university named a “Brand That Matters” by Fast Company magazine in both 2021 and 2022, a No. 4 ranking as the most trusted public university in the country and a top 3 ranking as a university that protects free speech and open inquiry. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Purdue as one of the most innovative schools in the country each of the last five years in addition to ranking numerous academic programs highly.

President Emeritus Mitch Daniels first announced that Purdue would not increase tuition in Spring 2013, shortly after he became the university’s 12th president. Before that, Purdue tuition had increased every year since 1976, and it rose an average of nearly 6% annually from 2002-12.

Detectives with the Indiana State Police have recently received complaints about a potential scam targeting local restaurants.

According to the Indiana State Police the restaurant receives a phone call. The caller tells the answering employee they are from a local law enforcement agency and conducting a counterfeit money investigation. The caller tells the employee that the restaurant possibly has counterfeit money. The employee is then instructed to gather all the restaurant’s money and meet the caller at a location away from the restaurant, purportedly to check for counterfeit money. This is an attempt to steal the restaurant’s money. 

Scammers are constantly coming up with new tricks and have recently been impersonating members of law enforcement. Sometimes they will use software that shows the incoming call is from a police department. Their sole purpose is to attempt to steal from individuals and businesses. 

Law enforcement officers will not call you and request you bring them money.

If you happen to receive unsolicited phone calls similar in nature:

Don’t give in to the pressure to act.

Don’t engage in conversation with suspected scammers.

Don’t send or take money to a caller. Also, don’t wire money or pay a scammer with a prepaid debit card or gift card.

Don’t travel to any location the caller asks you to go.

Hang up and call the police.

Dixie Chopper has finalized its purchase of the former manufacturing facility located in Coatesville, Indiana. The original family farm where Dixie Chopper was born is now the new (old) home for the assembly of mowers.

“I can remember where we drew the frame design on the barn floor with chalk for the first production Dixie Chopper” says Wes Evans, Business Unit Manager of Dixie Chopper. “My team and I are very excited to move back to the Coatesville facility and continue building the World’s Fastest Lawn Mower®.”

Dixie Chopper currently utilizes a building on the east side of Greencastle (Fillmore) where they assemble zero-turn mowers and warehouse the parts department. The transition to the new facility is scheduled to be completed in the summer of 2023.

“We have absolutely outgrown the Fillmore facility,” said Lisa Tubbs, President of RhinoAg and Dixie Chopper. “In order to continue growing the Dixie Chopper business, it was imperative that we located a bigger building to facilitate this growth. The Coatesville building has such a sentimental value to the employees and we are ready to get moved in.”

High schoolers interested in public safety careers will be offered free, weeklong leadership academies at the Indiana Sheriffs’ Youth Ranch beginning with a pilot program this summer. 

Fire and EMS, sheriff and police leadership youth academies will be offered at ISYR’s nonprofit 62-acre training retreat in Clay County under an agreement jointly announced today by leaders of ISYR and Crossroads of America Council, BSA-Exploring. 

Law Enforcement, Fire Recruitment Challenges 

“Indiana figures show nearly 14,000 law enforcement recruits will be needed from among our state’s current K-12 student population,” said Vigo County Sheriff John Plasse, ISYR board president. “Figures for the fire service are being calculated, but all indications are a similarly staggering need for motivated, qualified applicants – among urban, suburban, rural and volunteer departments.” 

Plasse said ISYR is working with sheriffs, police and fire chiefs to develop and host “fascinating, hands-on career camps to maintain teens’ interest in public service during high schoolers’ crucial decision-making years about education, friends, work and habits.”

Student Interests, Hometown Needs 

ISYR is partnering statewide with Learning For Life, a national not-for-profit workforce development and career exploration program delivered by BSA’s Exploring Program. 

“Our mission for Exploring is to deliver character-building experiences and mentorships that allow youth to achieve their full potential in both life and work,” said Joseph E. Wiltrout, president and CEO of Crossroads of America Council, BSA. 

Wiltrout said public safety officials and youth advocates hope Indiana’s proposed leadership academies will promote even safer, smarter communities statewide. 

“Advisory groups and instructors are being sought from various departments and state agencies, so Indiana’s proposed Sheriff & Police Explorer Academy and Fire & EMS Explorer Academy effectively address both the interests of students and the needs of Hoosier hometowns,” Wiltrout said.

Serious Training, Fun Recreation

Law Enforcement Explorers will receive distinctly different training from Fire and EMS Explorers,” said Elizabeth Hernandez, Exploring Executive with Crossroads of America Council, BSA. “However, Wednesdays will be designed as turnabout day when students will learn the roles and responsibilities of other careers in public safety.” 

Hernandez said Law Enforcement Explorers will learn about cybercrimes, drone use, horse patrols, investigations, K-9 handling and traffic stops. Fire and EMS Explorers will focus on arson investigations, CPR and first aid, ambulance and apparatus procedures, Hernandez said. 

“ISYR’s nonprofit training facilities are being developed specifically for these statewide academies,” said Utica Township Fire Chief and former Clark County Sheriff Jamey Noel. “Our indoor and outdoor classrooms will lend themselves to both training and recreation during the Explorer Academies.” 

Noel, who serves as the Youth Ranch vice president and chairs both Explorer Academy projects, said ISYR’s property offers both open and wooded acreage, as well as three lakes. “Some topics can be casually but effectively discussed among trainers and teens while fishing, cooking out, hiking or riding horseback.”

Free Application, Participation

Cass County Sheriff Ed Schroder, board secretary for ISYR, said a pilot program planned for July of 2023 will include students from Clay, Greene, Owen, Parke, Putnam, Sullivan, Vermillion and Vigo counties. 

Teens from these counties who have successfully completed grade 8 will be eligible to register and participate free-of-charge, Schroder said. “Other basic requirements will include excellent physical and mental health, good academic and disciplinary standing, a genuine desire to learn about public safety and a recommendation by a local school administrator, sheriff, police or fire chief.” 

Printed applications will be available in April through high school guidance offices in the pilot counties, Schroder said. Other participating counties will be included in 2024, as facilities continue to be funded and built at ISYR.

Private Donations, Possible State Support 

“Our Sheriffs’ Youth Ranch and Crossroads of America Council, BSA both rely on private donations for our impactful operations helping kids,” said Southern Indiana auto dealer and ISYR treasurer John Jones. “Because of the career development and public safety potential of our new academies, leaders in Indiana government have taken an appropriate interest in helping. Legislators understand the most common question we get when seeking private donations is, ‘Why aren’t my tax dollars doing this?’ Now, with the state coffers in uniquely well-funded shape, many Indiana lawmakers think help is not only possible, but prudent.” 

Jones said to request more information, to volunteer or donate, write to Indiana’s Sheriff & Police Explorer Academy or Indiana’s Fire & EMS Explorer Academy, 5325 N. State Road 59, Brazil IN 47834 or go to www.CrossroadsBSA.org.

After an eventful term representing the city's south-side residents, Cody Eckert filed for re-election Wednesday morning to the Greencastle City Council.

Appointed to the Republican ticket in 2019, Eckert stepped into public service at the local level when called upon. Now, Eckert seeks to bring his experience to bear for the citizens of Greencastle by entering May's primary. 

The 34-year-old Republican dedicated his first term to identifying ways to make an impact on behalf of his neighbors, and promises to use the knowledge gained to deliver efficient services to everyone who lives, works, and goes to school in Greencastle. 

"I spent my first term learning, joining the budget committee from the very start to put in the work, pinpoint problems, and establish priorities. I'm especially proud of the fact that we made sure the city employees devoted to our public safety benefitted from a salary ordinance meant to increase officer retention," Eckert stated. 

"Never one to shy away from taking a stand, I also voted to shrink government and save taxpayer dollars," Eckert noted, having introduced a motion to cut the number of councilmembers down to its statutory minimum. "If we can't make cuts when it's easy, how do we expect to make cuts when it's hard?" 

Eckert is the Executive Director of Public Policy and Legislation at the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles. He enjoys being in the thick of things during the legislative session, but truly appreciates the opportunity to represent his friends and neighbors here at home. 

"There's so much more to do, and I've learned that it takes folks who care to put in the time and effort to really make a difference. I'm ready to do that, and it's exciting to know that the groundwork we lay now will pay dividends in the future. It's important to do things right." 

The Indiana State Police Indianapolis Post recently received several complaints from of a phone scam. 

In this case, scammers have called with the Caller ID showing “Indiana State Police Post 52.” The phone number displayed is 317-899-8577, which is the phone number to the post. The scammers identify themselves as police officers and indicate to the caller there is a warrant for their arrest. The scammer then tries to obtain personal information and request financial restitution to take care of the warrant. 

Scams like this with “spoofed” Indiana State Police phone numbers have happened across Indiana with scams ranging from telling the victim their identity has been stolen, selling insurance or attempts to raise money for false charities.

The Indiana State Police would remind all Hoosiers that these types of phone scammers are pervasive and technically savvy. Scammers will often play on your emotions and fears to get to your money. 

The easiest way to protect yourself from being scammed over the phone is either to ignore unsolicited calls from unknown callers or just hang up when something doesn’t seem right.

You should never provide any information over the phone to an unknown caller regarding your personal identity, social security number, bank account(s), or credit card number(s).

If in doubt, or if you feel you may have fallen victim to a phone scammer, just hang up and immediately report the incident to your local law enforcement agency.

A Parke County man has been charged with two counts of animal cruelty.

The Parke County Sheriff's office was called to aid two dogs dumped on County Road 750 West.  The Sheriff's Office reports both dogs were in need of medical attention. 

The dogs are recovering at the Parke-Vermillion County Humane Shelter.

Greggory Fransted, 28, Of Mecca, was arrested. He was initially held on $5000 bond.