Local News

Eastbound I-465 reduced to single lane starting Friday night

Motorists should be aware of and prepare for changing traffic patterns on the southwest side of Indianapolis this weekend.

Traffic flow on southbound to eastbound I-465 between I-70 and I-65 on the city’s southwest side will be limited to a single lane beginning at 8 p.m. on Friday, March 31, lasting until 5 a.m. on Monday, April 3.

During the double-lane restriction, the speed limit on both eastbound and westbound I-465 will be 45 miles per hour. Motorists are encouraged to slow down, pay attention to changing conditions and drive distraction-free.

Watch this short video that shows where roadways and ramps are restricted during this weekend’s work. A graphic representation of the same information can be found here.

To reduce traffic volume and the number of conflict points in the construction zone, several eastbound entrance ramps onto I-465 will close during this weekend’s lane restrictions. Starting Friday at 8 p.m. the following ramps will be closed:

  • I-70 eastbound to I-465 southbound
  • S.R. 67/Kentucky Ave. to I-465 eastbound
  • Mann Rd. to I-465 eastbound
  • S.R. 37/Harding St. to I-465 eastbound

While eastbound I-465 is restricted, I-70 eastbound traffic will be detoured east to I-65 southbound at the South Split. The U.S. 31 southbound to I-465 westbound ramp  will remain closed through 2024. All other ramps will reopen by 5 a.m. on Monday, April 3.

Motorists should expect increased congestion during the weekend due to these restrictions and are encouraged to plan ahead and find alternate routes.

Follow @I69FinishLine on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for the latest traffic alerts and project news.

The most current information about closures and restrictions can be found on INDOT’s TrafficWise map at 511in.org or on INDOT’s TrafficWise app.

Next Level Indiana

Wind and storm chances growing in Friday night forecast

A Wind Advisory in effect from 8 pm Friday to 6 pm EDT Saturday.

 

Southwest winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph are expected across portions of central Indiana.

 

Isolated to scattered thunderstorms are possible through the afternoon. There is an ENHANCED RISK for severe thunderstorms, mainly tonight.

 

A line of thunderstorms is expected to move through this evening. Damaging winds to 70 mph and some risk of a few brief tornadoes will accompany this line of storms.

 

Strong winds gusts up to 45 mph are possible Friday evening even outside of thunderstorms.

 

Strong wind gusts up to 50 mph are likely on Saturday.

 


Supermarket Sweep is April 17 at Greencastle Kroger

The annual Supermarket Sweep is a little more than two weeks away.

 

The Supermarket Sweep is a philanthropic event where the community is invited to shop and donate needed items to local food pantries.

 

In-kind donations can be purchased  8 a.m. – 9 p.m. at the Kroger in Greencastle on April 17. 

 

Cash and check donations are also accepted.  Checks should be made out to the Putnam County Community Foundation:  Putnam Co. Pantry Coalition.

 

 

Duke Energy request to reduce fuel electric rate approved by Indiana regulators

The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission approved Duke Energy Indiana’s request Wednesday to lower bills due to declining fuel and purchased power costs.

For an average residential Duke Energy customer in Indiana using 1,000 kilowatt-hours a month, it means a decrease of approximately 16% over rates today, or $26 a month. That is on top of a 5% decrease that went into effect in January.

Customer electric bills were higher in 2022 primarily due to soaring fuel costs that affected the cost of power utilities produced as well as what they purchased on the energy markets. A number of unique events drove up fuel costs – from volatility in the energy markets worldwide to labor shortages at railroads that delivered fuel.

“Fuel and purchased power can account for as much as 25-45% of an average residential customer’s bill, so when the markets are volatile, it can have a big impact on energy bills,” said Duke Energy Indiana President Stan Pinegar. “We’re starting to see costs stabilize, and the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission has approved our request to pass those savings along to customers.”

The decrease will be in effect April-June. Four times a year, utilities adjust prices based on fluctuating fuel costs. Fuel rate adjustments are not permanent; fuel costs rise and fall, and utilities pass those costs to customers with no profit, so customers pay what their utility provider pays.

Duke Energy’s priority is to purchase fuel at the best possible price, through steps such as long-term contracts and using a diversity of suppliers.

Duke Energy Indiana, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, provides about 6,300 megawatts of owned electric capacity to approximately 890,000 customers in a 23,000-square-mile service area, making it Indiana’s largest electric supplier.

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Barry Fisher wins 2022 CCA Conservationist of the Year

Barry Fisher recently retired after 39 years with the USDA-Natural Recourses Conservation Service. Most recently he was with the Soil Health Division where he served as Central Region Leader providing training, leadership and technical exchange on Soil Health Management Systems for NRCS, farmers, stakeholders and partners throughout the Corn Belt and Northern Plains.

 

The Greencastle resident says he discovered a passion for all things conservation through 4-H and FFA. When he graduated from Western Kentucky University, Fisher began work with the Soil Conservation Service, which became the Natural Resources Conservation Service. He recently retired from the agency, and now, he’s President of Fisher Soil Health.  

 

Years ago, as district conservationist in Putnam County , Fisher started the Conservation Tillage Initiative, which morphed into the Conservation Cropping Systems Initiative. These programs, along with the efforts of Indiana farmers, has made Indiana one of the ‘go to’ states as a model for using cover crops and no-till in combination to improve soil health.

 

Fisher served on the National Soil Health Training Cadre for NRCS and represented NRCS on the NC SARE Administrative Council. Former positions with NRCS include: State Soil Health Specialist, State Agronomist, State Conservation Tillage Coordinator, Area Agronomist and District Conservationist.

 

Fisher remains active with state and national training and initiatives which advance technologies and adoption of regenerative farming and improving soil health. He was recently named the 2022 Certified Crop Advisor- Conservationist of the Year though the American Society of Agronomy where he has held his certification since its inception in 1992 (accumulating over 600 CEUs).

 

He serves on the Board of Directors of the Midwest Cover Crops Council, and a 40-year member of the Hoosier Chapter of SWCS.

 

Fisher was recognized as one of the 25 Living Legends of No-till at the National No-till Conference.  He was given the Hugh Hammond Bennett Conservation Legacy Award from NRCS for his contribution to the “Unlock the Secrets in the Soil” campaign to improve soil health.

 

Additional honors and recognitions include: Spirit of Extension Award from Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service, Indiana Certified Crop Advisor of the year, Indiana Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts Presidents Award, and delivered the 2021 S.H. Phillips Distinguished Lecture in No-Till Agriculture-University of Kentucky.

 

Fisher and his wife, Michael, practice soil health on their cash grain and livestock farm in west central Indiana. He has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture from Western Kentucky University and is a native of French Lick.

 

Since retirement, he has launched Fisher Soil Health LLC- Consulting as a next step on this soil health and regenerative farming journey.

Deadline approaching for those interested in joining the Greencastle school board

Friday is the deadline to submit a resume to be considered for a vacancy on the Greencastle school board.

 

A term with more than three years remaining is available after Russell Harvey resigned to accept an appointment to the Greencastle City Council.

 

Requirements to serve include living within the Greencastle city limits and a candidate must be at least 21.

 

Resumes should be sent by Friday, March 31, to Greencastle Community Schools, with attention to Board President Mike White.  The board has planned to conduct interviews on April 5.

 

 


Fire displaces 17 residents at Beyond Homeless, Inc.

A total of 17 residents at Beyond Homeless Inc., were displaced Tuesday evening following a fire in one of the sleeping rooms. 

 

The Greencastle Fire Department responded to a call at the facility and upon arrival were told of the fire in a sleeping room. Firefighters found a closed door kept the fire contained, allowing crews to extinguish it quickly and keeping it contained to just the single room. 

 

Fire officials determined the fire was unintentional and caused by an electrical issue.

 

"It initially came in as a fire alarm. When crews arrived on the scene, they were informed that there was an actual fire. A box alarm was initiated to call for additional county departments to help," Greencastle Fire Department assistant chief Rob Frank told The Putnam County Post. 

 

He added the fact that the door being closed actually aided firefighters significantly.

 

"If the door had been left open, the fire could have extended out into the hallway and been a lot worse than what it was," Frank said. 

 

Frank said other departments assisted the Greencastle Fire Department during the fire. 

 

"We had Cloverdale continue and Bainbridge Fire covered our station," Frank said. "The crews that arrived first did a great job of locating and quickly extinguishing the fire." 

 

Frank said there were no injuries in the fire. 

Cascade teacher Allison Paradise honored by DePauw's Honor Scholar Program

DePauw’s Honor Scholar Program is recognizing a Clayton English teacher who her nominator said, “embodies the fervor and excitement that high school education should ignite for students.” 

 

Allison Paradise, who teaches multi-grade level English literature and writing courses at Cascade High School, is the 2023 Battey National Educator of the Year, an honor awarded annually to a secondary school teacher who inspired a DePauw honor scholar graduating senior. 

 

Paradise, a teacher for 22 years, has taught at Cascade High School since 2004, where Becca Parsons ’23, a DePauw honor scholar, took her class. Parsons is majoring in English literature and minoring in political science at DePauw. 

 

“From inside the classroom to the hours after school, Ms. Paradise made it known that she was someone you could come to for anything, and she would do everything in her power to help,” Parsons wrote in a nominating letter. She said Paradise “champions important causes, leading suicide prevention walks and supporting child abuse awareness. Her heart of gold shines through her involvement as an advocate for the common good.”

 

In an essay Paradise was asked to submit about her teaching philosophy, she wrote, “My teaching philosophy in its simplest terms, is to make sure that my students know that they have worth and potential. It is so important, especially these days as apathy runs rampant and suicide rates are on the rise, to let them know how loved they are.”

 

Paradise added: “The relationships I have built with my students, the conversations I have had with students who are hurting, the smiles I have put on faces with tear stains still on their cheeks... those are my greatest achievements as a teacher, not AP scores, SAT scores or whatever bureaucrats tell us is a true “measure of success.” We, as teachers, have to build confident students who are passionate about helping others the way they have been helped.” 

 

The Battey award was created in 2008 by Joan Westman Battey ’54 and her husband Charles to thank pre-college educators who have made an enduring difference in the lives of DePauw students. Senior honor scholars are invited each fall to nominate a teacher who inspired them and continues to have an impact on their intellectual curiosity. The teacher’s essay is used – along with the nomination letter and a recommendation letter from the teacher’s principal – by the Honor Scholar Program to choose the Battey winner.

 

The award provides a substantial honorarium for Paradise, and Cascade High School will receive a generous grant, to be spent on her recommendations.


Indiana's February 2023 employment report

Indiana’s unemployment rate in February stands at 3.1%, according to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. By comparison, the national unemployment rate for February stands at 3.6%.

In addition, Indiana’s labor force participation rate held at 63.4% for February, remaining above the national rate of 62.5%.

Indiana’s total labor force, which includes both Hoosiers employed and those seeking employment, stands at 3,409,528 – an increase of 427 from the previous month.

Private sector employment in Indiana increased by 3,100 jobs over the last month, translating to a gain of 72,900 jobs from this time last year. Indiana’s February private employment stands at 2,827,300. This is a new private employment peak for Indiana.

Industries that experienced job increases in February included:

  • Professional and Business Services (+3,600)
  • Leisure and Hospitality (+1,500)
  • Private Educational and Health Services (+1,200)

As of March 16, there were 135,336 open job postings throughout the state. In February, 19,485 unemployment insurance claims were filed in Indiana.

Individuals looking for work, training or career information are encouraged to visit in.gov/dwd/job-seekers.

 

 

Owen County authorities warn of aggressive scam

The Owen County Sheriff’s Office recently received information regarding an aggressive marketing/scam campaign that one of its county residents received.

 

The notice that was mailed to the resident appears to be an attempt to look like an official correspondence from a county office. The sender uses information found on public websites to target individuals using their name, address, and even mortgage information.

 

When contacted, the sender will attempt to convince the recipient to purchase products through aggressive and threatening tactics. Though it may not be illegal, it is most definitely an unethical practice.

 

If you receive any correspondence such as the one attached to this post. It IS NOT from your local government or bank. If you are concerned about any letters, or

phone calls that you believe to be suspicious, do no hesitate to call your local law enforcement.

 


Mitch Daniels joins the Liberty Fund as Distinguished Scholar and Senior Advisor

The Liberty Fund announced today that Mitch Daniels will join the Liberty Fund as a Distinguished Scholar and Senior Advisor.

 

Daniels joins the Liberty Fund after serving as President of Purdue University from 2013 – 2022. At Purdue, Daniels led transformative change and was recognized as one of the most innovative university presidents in America. During Daniels’ tenure, Purdue froze tuition, reducing student borrowing by 32 percent.

 

Daniels served as Governor of the State of Indiana from 2005 – 2013. After inheriting a nearly $800 million deficit, Governor Daniels left Indiana with a budget in surplus, reserve funds equal to nearly 15 percent of annual spending, and its first AAA credit rating. Under Governor Daniels’ leadership, Indiana moved near the top of every national ranking for business attractiveness. His emphasis on government efficiency and performance measurement led to many state agencies, including the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Department of Child Services, and the Department of Corrections winning national performance awards.
Daniels’ work with the Liberty Fund will focus on the creation of educational programs and partnerships that will strengthen Liberty Fund’s existing educational programs.

 

Daniels will begin his work with Liberty Fund on April 1, 2023.

 

Daniels stated: “I have watched for decades as the Liberty Fund, with impeccable scholarship and fidelity to principle, has labored to keep lit the lamp of freedom, and spread understanding of its historical and intellectual underpinnings. Now, with individual liberty under relentless threats foreign and domestic, I'm grateful for the Funds' invitation that I try to assist it in its noble and essential mission.”

 

“Our Board couldn’t be more excited to have Mitch join our organization, said Nathan Feltman, Liberty Fund’s Chairman of the Board. “Mitch’s long-standing commitment to the principles of individual liberty, as well as his work in the private and public sectors, made him the perfect choice for Liberty Fund’s first ever Distinguished Scholar.”

 

The Liberty Fund was founded in 1960 by Pierre F. Goodrich, an Indianapolis businessman and lawyer. Liberty Fund conducts its own educational programs to encourage research and discussion on the values and institutions of a society of free and responsible individuals.

Parke County Sheriff's Office warns of Snapchat scam

The Parke County Sheriff's office has warned of an uptick of reports that they've been receiving regarding a Snapchat scam going around that is targeting teens, although adults and younger children are not exempt.

 

Agencies all over are receiving these same reports.

 

Victims are receiving friend requests from another Snapchat user. A user that they’re typically not familiar with or recognize. The victim accepts the friend request. Messages and photo exchanges begin to take place between the two. Often the new “friend” starts requesting that the victim send a nude photo of themselves, including their face. Once the photo is sent, the user (suspect) on the receiving end attempts to extort the sender for money. Once the sender declines to send funds, the suspect user sends the victim's photo out to the victim's friends list / contacts, typically via Instagram messenger.

 

Additionally, the suspects are gaining access to the victims entire camera rolls and photo shopping them on to naked images. Some victims have chosen to pay the money requested.

 

Parents and adult parties are urged to talk to their teens/children and remind them (and themselves) of the following:

 

1. NEVER accept friend requests from anyone that you do not know. If they’re insistent they know you, verify them through all ways possible before accepting their request.

2. Report and block any and all inappropriate users and messages.

3. NEVER send any photos out that are sexual or pornographic in nature. Once those photos are sent, there is no getting them back and preventing them from being sent on to other parties.

4. Sending money to these parties is also strongly discouraged.

5. Protect your accounts. Change passwords often and ensure your privacy settings are set to protect you.

Two arrests after multiple car thefts at Owen County business

Indiana State Police and local agencies arrested two men after stealing multiple vehicles from an Owen County business.

 

About 9:30 am, ISP Sgt. Ian Portteus was at the Bloomington State Police Post doing paperwork when he overheard radio traffic from the Owen County Sheriff's Department regarding a possible theft of three vehicles from T&T Repairables near Whitehall, in southeastern Owen County.

 

Law enforcement response originated after a concerned citizen called the Sheriff’s Department Communication Center and reported suspicious activity leaving the area of the business. 

 

Sgt. Portteus responded and radioed Trooper Jeremy Cox who was on duty in nearby western Monroe County. Sgt. Portteus continued to monitor both radio channels and relay information to troopers and dispatchers with the Indiana State Police while traveling towards the location. He continued his attempts at locating the vehicles based on limited and conflicting descriptions of two to three of the missing vehicles. A fourth vehicle was believed to be used by the suspects to arrive at the business.

 

F/Sgt. Michael Wood located pictures of two of the vehicles on the T&T Repairables website and forwarded those pictures to all troopers assigned to the district in an attempt to quickly locate the suspects and vehicles. The concerned citizen again called into dispatch and advised that one of the vehicles, a 2016 black Ford F-350 truck was now northbound on I-69 from Third Street in Bloomington. Troopers Kent Rohlfing, Mike Clephane, Doug Perry, and Matt Fleener responded by traveling to I-69 in Morgan County in order to locate the vehicle. At approximately 10:00 am Troopers Clephane, Rohlfing, and Fleener located the vehicle in Morgan County and followed it as it exited I-69 at SR 144 in Johnson County. The troopers conducted a high-risk traffic stop with the assistance of deputies from the Johnson County Sheriff's Department.

 

That traffic stop resulted in the arrest of two male suspects, Jerry W. Poindexter, and Travis L. Stephens. The truck was confirmed to be stolen when F/Sgt. Wood radioed to the troopers on the traffic stop information gathered from the pictures that included the Idaho license plate and a picture of the vehicle identification number (VIN). 

 

Trooper Cox and Owen County Deputies Charlie Hallam, Cory Poland, and Chief Deputy Matt Miller were able to locate a second vehicle, a silver 2020 Ram 1500 Truck, near the intersection of SR 43 and Porter Ridge Road in Owen County after thieves abandoned the vehicle as its emergency brake system remained engaged.

 

Deputies with the Owen County Sheriff's Department obtained a description for a third stolen vehicle, a green 2019 Chevy Silverado. With the help of the vehicle's computer system and GPS, officers located the green Silverado at a business parking lot on west Third Street near I-69 in Bloomington. Deputies utilized the vehicle's computer system to disable the vehicle from further operation. ISP Sgt. Eric Russell, Crime Scene Investigator, and Trooper Cox arrived at the location in Bloomington and processed the truck for evidence.

 

A fourth vehicle that was allegedly stolen from T&T Repairables by the Stephens suspect on March 9, was also located and recovered in Indianapolis. All four vehicles were returned to T&T Repairables and two suspects were arrested.

 

The following were transported to the Morgan County Jail:

Jerry W. Poindexter, 46,  Indianapolis

• One Count of Vehicle Theft, Level 5 Felony

• One Count of Possession of Stolen Property, Level 6 Felony

• One County of Driving While Suspended, Class A Misdemeanor

 

Travis L. Stephens, 46, Transient - No Current Address

• One Count of Vehicle Theft, Level 5 Felony

• One Count of Possession of Stolen Property, Level 6 Felony

• Active Warrant for Auto Theft from Owen County

• Active Warrant for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender

 

Case information will be reviewed by prosecutors from Owen, Monroe, Morgan, and Johnson County to determine if further charges will be filed. This investigation remains open as troopers attempt to identify and locate two others who assisted with the crimes.

 

When asked about the investigation, Lt. Paul Bucher, Commander of the Indiana State Police Bloomington District stated, "I commend the teamwork and cooperation between several agencies to quickly work together, communicate vital information and locate and recover the suspects and property.”

Incident lands one woman in hospital and another in jail

A weekend incident in Brazil has landed one woman in an Indianapolis hospital, while another was booked in the Clay County Justice Center. 

 

According to Brazil Police, officers were flagged down while on patrol and made aware of an incident involving two women. 

 

One of the women told police she was invited to a residence in Brazil and then was beaten by another woman. The injuries to the victim were so severe she was transported to an Indianapolis hospital. 

 

Police identified Gavyn Trinajstick, 20, of Brazil, as the suspect and a Clay County Sheriff's deputy located Trinajstick, who was booked in the Clay County Justice Center on a charge of battery resulting in serious bodily injury. 

Langdon looks to keep seat on Greencastle Council

For the last eight years, Stacie Langdon, a Republican, has held onto a seat on the Greencastle City Council, and the 2nd Ward representative is looking for another four years this election season. 

 

"As I complete my eighth year of serving as the second ward representative to the city, I am seeking re-election because I believe Greencastle has achieved so much and has the potential to achieve much more. Whether it's having input regarding the construction of the new community center, working on the city budget, supporting our local schools and not-for-profits, or volunteering in the community, I want to be involved," Langdon told The Putnam County Post.

 

Langdon's interest in government began as a student in high school and grew when she attended Northern Illinois University, receiving a Bachelor of Science in Political Science. 

 

"What I enjoy the most about serving on the Greencastle Council is having a voice in the community where I live," Langdon said. 

 

And her involvement extends outside council chambers, as she serves as a board member on the Putnam County Economic Development Board, serves on the Community Connect Planning Committee, is a board member on the Greencastle Redevelopment Board, is a board member on the Asbury Towers Board and is on the leadership board at First Baptist Church of Greencastle. She also serves as the city council liaison to the Greencastle Park Board, serves on the Friends of the Park Board, is an eight year member of the Greencastle city budget committee and is a 10 year Kiwanis member. 

 

She said when she reflects on her time on city council, the most pressing issue facing Greencastle is how to make the city budget stretch to provide services like police, fire and water, as well as road repair and fair wages for city employees.

 

"Looking back, the last few years have been challenging for our entire community. Our schools, small and large businesses and not for profits have been stretched and tested. Greencastle continues to face housing shortages at all income levels, hiring shortages and runaway inflation," Langdon said. 

 

Despite the issues, Langdon said there are several past accomplishments she is proud of being apart of. 

 

"I am proud of the way our Mayor, Clerk Treasurer and City Council have worked side by side in a non-partisan setting to work together to navigate these challenging times," Langdon said. 

One man shot and another arrested in domestic dispute shooting in Clayton

A shooting in the town of Clayton sent one man to the hospital and another to jail.

 

Authorities in Hendricks County say the man who was shot is 42 years old.  It happened in the 4:00 hour Thursday afternoon in the 100 block of East Crawford Street.  His injury was not believed to be life-threatening.

 

A 20-year-old man was arrested.  The men are believed to be relatives though no exact word has been released on their relationship or what led to the reported domestic dispute.

US 36 flagging operation starting on or after April 3 for a pavement patching operation near Bainbridge

The Indiana Department of Transportation announces U.S. 36 will be restricted by a flagging operation starting on or after Monday, April 3, near Bainbridge.

 

The restrictions will be in effect from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily, from approximately 4.36-miles east of U.S. 231 to State Road 75. This will allow crews to safely perform a pavement patching operation.

 

The restrictions are expected to last through early August, weather permitting.

 

This contract was awarded to Milestone Contractors South, LLC for $2.8 million. It involves an HMA Overlay, which is a combination of asphalt cement and aggregate placed over aging pavements as a pavement preservation treatment. 

Greencastle Music Fest receives Indiana Tourism Award

Indiana’s annual tourism conference was held March 20-22 in Elkhart.

 

The Indiana Tourism Awards were presented on Tuesday, March 21. The awards honor tourism businesses who are creative, innovative and maximize the dollars invested. The winners were:

 

  • Best Advocacy Initiative – Indiana State Festivals Association
  • Best Brochure – Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari
  • Best Cooperative Partnership – Elkhart County, IN CVB
  • Best Culinary Focused Marketing Campaign – Indiana Foodways Alliance and Indiana Destination Development Corporation
  • Best Digital Marketing Campaign– Visit Bloomington
  • Best Event/Festival (Marketing Budgets under $300,000) – Greencastle Music Fest
  • Best Event/Festival (Marketing Budgets over $300,000) – Visit Michigan City LaPorte
  • Best New Experience (Marketing Budgets under $300,000) – Steuben County Tourism Bureau
  • Best New Experience (Marketing Budgets over $300,000) – Visit South Bend Mishawaka
  • Best New Merchandise – Visit Fort Wayne
  • Best Overall Marketing Campaign – Indianapolis Zoo and Borshoff
  • Best Specialty Item– Shelby County Tourism and Visitors Bureau
  • Best Visitors Guide (Marketing Budgets under $300,000) – Visit Madison, Inc.
  • Best Visitors Guide (Marketing Budgets over $300,000) – Visit Fort Wayne

 

In addition to the above awards, the Indiana Tourism Association gave out an individual award based on merit:

 

Indiana Tourism Association Member of the Year – The Member of the Year award is designed for members of the association who stepped forward and provided exemplary service and leadership to the industry and the association. This year’s award went to Luanne Mattson, SoIN Tourism.

 

Two hundred tourism leaders from around the state came to the Indiana Tourism Conferencefor networking and educational sessions over the three-days.

 

Two arrests with more possible in multiple vehicle theft from Owen Co. business

A search and arrest of thieves with stolen vehicles from an Owen County business started Wednesday morning.

 

About 9:30 am, ISP Sgt. Ian Portteus was at the Bloomington State Police Post doing paperwork when he overheard radio traffic from the Owen County Sheriff's Department regarding a possible theft of three vehicles from T&T Repairables near Whitehall, in southeastern Owen County.

 

Law enforcement response originated after a concerned citizen called the Sheriff’s Department Communication Center and reported suspicious activity leaving the area of the business. 

 

Sgt. Portteus responded and radioed Trooper Jeremy Cox who was on duty in nearby western Monroe County. Sgt. Portteus continued to monitor both radio channels and relay information to troopers and dispatchers with the Indiana State Police while traveling towards the location. He continued his attempts at locating the vehicles based on limited and conflicting descriptions of two to three of the missing vehicles. A fourth vehicle was believed to be used by the suspects to arrive at the business.

 

F/Sgt. Michael Wood located pictures of two of the vehicles on the T&T Repairables website and forwarded those pictures to all troopers assigned to the district in an attempt to quickly locate the suspects and vehicles. The concerned citizen again called into dispatch and advised that one of the vehicles, a 2016 black Ford F-350 truck was now northbound on I-69 from Third Street in Bloomington. Troopers Kent Rohlfing, Mike Clephane, Doug Perry, and Matt Fleener responded by traveling to I-69 in Morgan County in order to locate the vehicle. At approximately 10:00 am Troopers Clephane, Rohlfing, and Fleener located the vehicle in Morgan County and followed it as it exited I-69 at SR 144 in Johnson County. The troopers conducted a high-risk traffic stop with the assistance of deputies from the Johnson County Sheriff's Department.

 

That traffic stop resulted in the arrest of two male suspects, Jerry W. Poindexter, and Travis L. Stephens. The truck was confirmed to be stolen when F/Sgt. Wood radioed to the troopers on the traffic stop information gathered from the pictures that included the Idaho license plate and a picture of the vehicle identification number (VIN). 

Trooper Cox and Owen County Deputies Charlie Hallam, Cory Poland, and Chief Deputy Matt Miller were able to locate a second vehicle, a silver 2020 Ram 1500 Truck, near the intersection of SR 43 and Porter Ridge Road in Owen County after thieves abandoned the vehicle as its emergency brake system remained engaged. 

Deputies with the Owen County Sheriff's Department obtained a description for a third stolen vehicle, a green 2019 Chevy Silverado. With the help of the vehicle's computer system and GPS, officers located the green Silverado at a business parking lot on west Third Street near I-69 in Bloomington. Deputies utilized the vehicle's computer system to disable the vehicle from further operation. ISP Sgt. Eric Russell, Crime Scene Investigator, and Trooper Cox arrived at the location in Bloomington and processed the truck for evidence.

 

A fourth vehicle that was allegedly stolen from T&T Repairables by the Stephens suspect on March 9, was also located and recovered in Indianapolis. All four vehicles were returned to T&T Repairables and two suspects were arrested.

 

The following were transported to the Morgan County Jail:

 

Jerry W. Poindexter, 46,  Indianapolis

• One Count of Vehicle Theft, Level 5 Felony

• One Count of Possession of Stolen Property, Level 6 Felony

• One County of Driving While Suspended, Class A Misdemeanor

 

Travis L. Stephens, 46, Transient - No Current Address

• One Count of Vehicle Theft, Level 5 Felony

• One Count of Possession of Stolen Property, Level 6 Felony

• Active Warrant for Auto Theft from Owen County

• Active Warrant for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender

 

Case information will be reviewed by prosecutors from Owen, Monroe, Morgan, and Johnson County to determine if further charges will be filed. This investigation remains open as troopers attempt to identify and locate two others who assisted with the crimes.

 

When asked about the investigation, Lt. Paul Bucher, Commander of the Indiana State Police Bloomington District stated, "I commend the teamwork and cooperation between several agencies to quickly work together, communicate vital information and locate and recover the suspects and property.”

Flood Watch in effect starting Thursday night

The National Weather Service says a Flood Watch remains in effect from Thursday evening through Saturday morning for much of central Indiana.

 

Most portions of central Indiana are included in the Flood Watch including the counties of Bartholomew, Decatur, Hancock, Hendricks, Johnson, Marion, Morgan, Rush and Shelby.

 

In south central Indiana, Brown, Jackson, Lawrence and Monroe along with Clay,Owen, Putnam and Vigo in the west central portion of the state.

 

The watch begins this evening and runs through Saturday morning.

 

Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations.

 

Extensive street flooding and flooding of creeks and rivers are possible. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding.

 

Total rainfall amounts of 2 to 4 inches between Thursday evening and Saturday morning can be expected within most of the watch area. Locally higher amounts are possible. The greatest concern for high rain rates and therefore flooding will be Thursday and Friday night.

Cloverdale, Sullivan and Northview JAG students among the best at statewide conference

Students from Cloverdale, Sullivan and Northview High Schools took home top honors last week at the 15th Annual Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) State Career Development Conference at Ivy Tech’s anchor campus in Indianapolis. 

 

The western Indiana students competed across multiple disciplines that are considered essential to gaining employment, showcasing skills that range from entrepreneurship, to critical thinking, to employability skills. Approximately 150 students from across the state contended for cash prizes and the chance to secure statewide attention for their local JAG program.  

 

The students, their high schools and awards are: 

 

Cloverdale High School 

First place, Financial Literacy – Carson Hall

Third place, Project Based Learning – Keelie Pierce, Kaydence Sharp, Kiersten Wade, 

First place, Social Media 

 

Sullivan High School 

First place, Writing Skills – Nevaeh Gordon 

 

Northview High School

Honorable Mention, Outstanding Senior – Nathaniel Reedy 

 

The students who competed in Indianapolis earned first place awards during the JAG regional career competition in Terre Haute in January. More than 200 JAG students participated in the competition, which was sponsored by Ivy Tech Terre Haute, Duke Energy and the Western Indiana Workforce Development Board.

 

Jobs for America’s Graduates is a national workforce skills readiness program for high school students. It focuses on the importance of earning a high school diploma and acquiring the soft skills employers require. Skills which are developed include problem solving, leadership, job seeking, team building, and academic skills; all necessary to complete post-secondary training and success in today’s job market.

 

“We are proud of the JAG programs in our region for developing young leaders and positioning them to compete against some of the best minds in our state,” said Greg Lee, who oversees nine JAG programs in western Indiana. “The JAG experience not only sets young people up for success after high school, it also teaches valuable personal and career skills they will carry with them throughout their lives.”  

 

More than 135 JAG programs operate in Indiana. In the Wabash Valley, thanks to the support and cooperation of local school administrations and the Western Indiana Workforce Development Board, JAG programs operate at Northview High School in Brazil, Riverton Parke Junior/Senior High School in Montezuma, West Vigo High School in Terre Haute, North Putnam High School in Roachdale, Sullivan High School in Sullivan, Terre Haute North Vigo High School, Terre Haute South Vigo High School, Cloverdale High School and Parke Heritage High School in Rockville.

CDC warning about rapidly spreading fungus with nearly 100 cases in Indiana

The CDC is issuing an urgent warning about a fungus that has been reported in 28 states with nearly 100 cases in Indiana.

Candida auris (C. auris), an emerging fungus considered an urgent antimicrobial resistance (AR) threat, spread at an alarming rate in U.S. healthcare facilities in 2020-2021, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. Equally concerning was a tripling in 2021 of the number of cases that were resistant to echinocandins, the antifungal medicine most recommended for treatment of C. auris infections. In general, C. auris is not a threat to healthy people.?People who are very sick, have invasive medical devices, or have long or frequent stays in healthcare facilities are at increased risk for acquiring C. auris. CDC has deemed C. auris as an urgent AR threat, because it is often resistant to multiple antifungal drugs, spreads easily in healthcare facilities, and can cause severe infections with high death rates.

“The rapid rise and geographic spread of cases is concerning and emphasizes the need for continued surveillance, expanded lab capacity, quicker diagnostic tests, and adherence to proven infection prevention and control,” said CDC epidemiologist Dr. Meghan Lyman, lead author of the paper.

As further explained in the article, C. auris has spread in the United States since it was first reported in 2016, with a total of 3,270 clinical cases (in which infection is present) and 7,413 screening cases (in which the fungus is detected but not causing infection) reported through December 31, 2021. Clinical cases have increased each year since 2016, with the most rapid rise occurring during 2020-2021. CDC has continued to see an increase in case counts for 2022. During 2019-2021, 17 states identified their first C. auris case ever. Nationwide, clinical cases rose from 476 in 2019 to 1,471 in 2021. Screening cases tripled from 2020 to 2021, for a total of 4,041. Screening is important to prevent spread by identifying patients carrying the fungus so that infection prevention controls can be used.

C. auris case counts have increased for many reasons, including poor general infection prevention and control (IPC) practices in healthcare facilities. Case counts may also have increased because of enhanced efforts to detect cases, including increased colonization screening, a test to see if someone has the fungus somewhere on their body but does not have an infection or symptoms of infection. The timing of this increase and findings from public health investigations suggest C. auris spread may have worsened due to strain on healthcare and public health systems during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The CDC’s Antimicrobial Resistance Laboratory Network, which provides nationwide lab capacity to rapidly detect antimicrobial resistance and inform local responses to prevent spread and protect people, provided some of the data for this report. CDC worked to significantly strengthen laboratory capacity, including in state, territorial, and local health departments, through supplemental funding supported by the American Rescue Plan Act. These efforts include increasing susceptibility testing capacity for C. auris from seven Regional Labs to more than 26 labs nationwide.

CDC continues to work with state, local, and territorial health departments and other partners to address this emerging threat to public health. Review more information on C. auris, the Antimicrobial Resistance Threats Report that identified C. auris as an urgent threat in the United States, or the WHO fungal priority pathogen list that identifies C. auris as a priority globally.

Two area agencies among those awarded $1.7 million in rental assistance and supportive services statewide

Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch and the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority announced the distribution of nearly $1,700,000 to six Indiana not-for-profit entities to administer the HOME-funded Tenant Based Rental Assistance (HOME TRBA) program.

 

The organizations will assist income-eligible households with at least one member who was formerly incarcerated. The program aims to increase housing affordability, stability, and choice for this population, which experiences homelessness at a rate almost seven times higher than the general population.

 

IHCDA’s allocation included $500,000 in HOME-American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP) Supportive Services funds to six Indiana non-profit organizations to ensure that all households assisted by HOME TBRA are offered or connected to a comprehensive set of supportive services that promote long-term housing stability.

 

“The HOME TBRA program is critical in assisting low-income households with affordable housing options," said Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch, Indiana's Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. "We are pleased to provide this funding to support formerly incarcerated individuals and ensure they have access to stable housing and supportive services.”

 

IHCDA launched the re-entry-focused program in 2018 in acknowledgment of the specific barriers to housing formerly incarcerated individuals face. IHCDA administers this program by partnering with not-for-profit organizations that offer participants essential services and support such as housing navigation, referrals to mental health and substance abuse treatment, legal aid, job training, employment assistance, and ongoing case management, in addition to deposit assistance and an ongoing rental subsidy. In 2022, IHCDA’s HOME TBRA Program served 162 households across the state of Indiana.

 

HOME Tenant Based Rental Assistance funds and HOME-American Rescue Plan Supportive Services funds were awarded to six organizations, including:

 

    Family Promise of Hendricks County is awarded $100,000

 

    Mental Health America of West Central Indiana is awarded $399,767.67

3 Towers Broadcasting, LLC, to acquire Plymouth radio stations WTCA AM 1050 and FM 106.1

3 Towers Broadcasting, LLC, has reached a deal to make WTCA - Plymouth its fifth Indiana-based radio station, joining WSVX (AM 1520 and 96.5 FM) in Shelbyville, WSVX (106.3 FM) in Greenfield, WROI (92.1 FM) in Rochester, and WREB (94.3 FM) in Greencastle.

 

3 Towers Broadcasting is based in Shelbyville.

“Little did we know when we started with AM 1520 in Shelbyville that our local brand of GIANT fm radio and online services would expand into other Indiana communities with such success,” said Johnny McCrory, co-owner of 3 Towers Broadcasting along with Scott Huber. “Our entire organization is excited to now partner with WTCA as we add to and help grow its longstanding record of service in Plymouth.”

 

WTCA was founded by Kenneth E. Kunze in 1963 when he was granted a license from the FCC to operate WTCA-AM 1050. In the beginning, all productions were broadcast from its transmitter site on Muckshaw Road in Plymouth with a business office on Water Street.

 

In 1965, the broadcasting operation was moved to the Water Street location in order to accommodate an ever-growing listening audience.

 

In 1966, the radio station moved into the old Plymouth Dairy at 112 West Washington St. The building was renovated into a broadcasting studio and remains the base of operations today for WTCA.

 

 

“We look forward to becoming part of the Plymouth and Marshall County community and being a vital source of news, sports and entertainment for listeners and readers in the area,” said McCrory.

 

In addition to the radio stations operated by 3 Towers Broadcasting, there also are digital newspapers operating under the banners Shelby County Post, Fulton County Post and Putnam County Post.

 

3 Towers Broadcasting will commence operations of Marshall County Post in the near future, according to co-owner Scott Huber.

 

In its early days, Ken Kunze’s wife, Jeanne, hosted a live public interest program each day called, “This and That.” The Kunzes’ daughter, Kathy Bottorff, continues that tradition with the station’s daily talk show, “What’s Your Opinion?”

 

The station has since expanded to include FM radio broadcasting in addition to their AM radio operations. WTCA is still operating daily radio programs from the AM transmitter site on Muckshaw Road and FM transmitter site at its Washington St. office in downtown Plymouth.

 

WTCA proudly provides services to the local communities with unique programming, local news, hit music, and other features geared toward the communities of Marshall County.

 

“We want to see it continue and flourish,” said Kathy Bottorff, who operates the station today with her husband, Jim Bottorff.

 

3 Towers Broadcasting owns and operates WSVX in Shelbyville and simulcasts on WSVX (106.3 FM) in Greenfield, Indiana. WROI in Rochester was purchased in 2019 and WREB in Greencastle was added in 2021.

Easter Egg Hunt in Brazil on April 8

First Christian Church and the Sheriffs’ Youth Ranch are teaming-up for an Easter Egg hunt on Saturday, April 8, 2023 at 10:00 AM.

 

Area kids, parents and grandparents are invited to the free, community Easter Egg Hunt at Forest Park (located at 911 Bonnie Geyne Miller Dr., off State Road 59 on Brazil’s southside).

 

“Younger kids will be given a head start at the 10 a.m. event,” said Jon Rhoades, children and family minister at First Christian Church. “We want all participating families from our congregation and community to have a joyous, rewarding time.” 

 

For years, the free community event has begun with a prayer marking the remembrance of Christ’s resurrection, Rhoades said. This year, the traditions continue with the added support of the nonprofit Sheriffs’ Youth Ranch Chaplain’s Office.

 

“Our chaplain’s office provides opportunities for Youth Ranch visitors to voluntarily participate in prayer, song and humanitarian projects,” said ISYR Volunteer Chaplain Jerry Fox. “We are delighted to again join Brazil’s First Christian Church on Easter weekend to provide a faith-based youth-oriented program with blessed opportunities for adult volunteerism and fellowship.”

 

Organizers encourage families to be on-site by 9:45 a.m. to see Clay County Sheriff Brison Swearingen and the Easter Bunny arrive by sheriff’s escort for the festivities, Fox said. Kids should bring Easter baskets or small grocery bags to collect candy-filled eggs scattered across Forest Park.

 

For more information on the Easter Egg Hunt, call the First Christian Church at 812-446-2214 or the Indiana Sheriffs’ Youth Ranch at 317-460-4242.

 

Donations for Fern Station Nature Preserve can be doubled thanks to grant

The Central Indiana Land Trust, Inc. (CILTI) has received a generous matching challenge grant from the Efroymson Family Fund in support of fundraising to purchase and protect Fern Station Nature Preserve, an environmentally rich 570-acre site just west of Greencastle.

 

The Efroymson Family Fund will match every financial gift CILTI receives for Fern Station up to $500,000.

 

CILTI has been talking to the owner of the property for 15 years, attracted to the site’s large swath of unbroken forestland and rich mix of flora and fauna. It sits virtually undisturbed now, with only a single gravel road cutting through it. But, unable to find a buyer, the landowner had been considering dividing the land into parcels for sale. Without CILTI’s plan to purchase the land, it likely would have been sold in pieces, making preservation unlikely.

 

CILTI has raised 94% of the funds needed to buy the land and protect it forever. In 2022, CILTI received $3.1 million toward the project from Indiana’s Next Level Conservation Trust, representing 75% of the purchase price.

 

Because Fern Station sits near another protected property – Fern Cliff Nature Preserve – its preservation increases the critical mass of protected land in the area. A classic example of Indiana forestland, Fern Station is dominated by white oak, beech and hickory trees and features lushly wooded ravines that support a wide variety of ferns. It is home to a number of rare and endangered species, including cerulean, worm-eating and hooded warblers, broad-winged hawks and Eastern box turtles.  

 

In addition to supporting such important wildlife and plant species, this property also provides an exciting opportunity for outdoor recreation in Putnam County.

 

“Fern Station is going to be one of the most biodiverse places in the state because of how large and undisturbed it is,” said CILTI Executive Director Cliff Chapman. “We’re eager to complete the fundraising stage of the project so we can start on a protection plan and trail building. We’re so grateful to the State of Indiana, the Efroymson Family Fund and many other donors for contributing to the project.”

 

For more information visit www.fernstation.org.

 

Community meeting on toxic waste planned for Monday night

With toxic waste making its way back into Putnam County from the East Palestine, Ohio train derailment, several community members are holding an informational meeting tonight at the Russellville Community Center, 300 N. Harrison St., Russellville

 

The doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and the meeting will begin at 7 p.m. and features information on dioxins and aquifer, as well as an action planning session, according to event organizers. 

 

The meeting will discuss the dangers of dioxins and cancer-causing chemicals, the history of concerned citizens, the potential dangerous contamination of Tipton Till Aquifer and why current testing is insufficient. 

 

"We will have an environmental and hydrogeologist there who will be able to educate the community on all their geological questions. We will also have a Michigan State professor who works on pollution issues across the state, Citizens for Action Coalition will be there, Rudy Guerrero will be speaking and Putnam County community organizers Kathryne Williams and Morgan Myers will be speaking. There will also be resources and information available that people can gather and take home to educate themselves on the situation. There will also be a table there about the endangered/threatened and rare specials of Putnam County that will impacted," community organizer Morgan Myers told The Putnam County Post. 

 

Myers has been outspoken about the shipments since it was announced the hazardous material would be coming to Putnam County, and has organized several protests within the last month.

 

She said the reactions from the community have been "positive."

 

"So far, the reaction seems to be positive and people are still very concerned despite the lab testing from Pace," Myers said. 

Sen. Braun and Rep. Womack introduce bill to protect tipped workers

Senator Mike Braun has introduced legislation to clarify the definition of tipped employee and relieve reporting burdens that are harming the restaurant community.

 

Representative Steve Womack (R-Ark.) introduced the companion legislation in the House.

 

“The Biden administration’s confusing compliance rule creates an unnecessary reporting burden for restaurants and servers that are already going through a difficult time due to inflation and rising food costs. This legislation will help streamline regulations for tipped employees so that restaurants and their workers can thrive.”— Sen. Mike Braun

 

 “More financial uncertainty is the last thing restaurant workers want. With crushing inflation and a faltering economy, the Biden administration’s heavy-handed compliance rules only add to the burden being put on hardworking Americans. Servers don’t need the federal government skimming their pay more. Our bill brings much-needed certainty to tipped employees by protecting their income and job opportunities.” - Rep. Steve Womack

 

“Many servers choose restaurant careers because their skills and knowledge mean high earning potential in a job that’s flexible to their needs. For others, they’re looking for something – extra income, customer interaction, business skills – that make the opportunity ideal. The current system of tipping means that the industry can fit all their needs. We appreciate Sen. Braun and Rep. Womack’s championing of tipped income workers and their ongoing support of restaurant owners and operators.” - Sean Kennedy, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs of the National Restaurant Association

 

“Senator Braun has traveled the state of Indiana hearing firsthand the stories from those in the restaurant industry and how vital this income is to Hoosiers. We greatly appreciate Senator Braun for listening to our industry and taking action. The support from Representative Womack and Senator Braun will allow our industry to continue to provide opportunities to the communities we serve.” - Patrick Tamm, President & CEO of the Indiana Restaurant and Lodging Association

 

“We appreciate Representative Womack’s dedication to the tipped workers of Arkansas. His efforts with Senator Braun to introduce this bill shows the hardworking people with careers in the restaurant industry that their dedication is important. Their skills and knowledge are vital to the success of the Arkansas restaurant industry, and they play an integral part in the communities they support. We hope that Congress will consider these essential workers and pass this legislation.” - Katie Beck, Chief Executive Officer, Arkansas Hospitality Association

 

The Tipped Employee Protection Act of 2023 would:

  • Amend the FLSA definition of tipped employee to create a more explicit definition of the term by removing interpretive language (customarily and regularly), providing additional clarity and simplicity in categorizing individuals as tipped employees.
  • Restrict the ability of judges or the administration to set arbitrary limits or requirements in classifying the hours or duties that a tipped employee performs. 
  • Preserve the tipped wage and the protection in the FLSA that tipped employees that receive at least the minimum wage between the addition of an employer-paid cash wage of $2.13 and tips—and in many cases much more. If an individual’s tips do not reach the applicable minimum wage under that formula, the employer would still be required to pay any difference. 
  • Retain the ability of states under the FLSA to set wages higher than the federal statutory minimum, meaning that any state could continue to independently set the wage.

Local organizations spreading awareness for National Child Abuse Prevention Month

April is National Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Month, a time when organizations across the United States bring attention to  the importance of creating systems and programs that put children and families first.

 

All community members have a role in ensuring that children have positive experiences, and that families have the necessary resources when they need them - well before they are in crisis. Child abuse and neglect are preventable, and all communities benefit when children and families are well supported.

 

The local Child Abuse Prevention Task Force is formed by representatives from Putnam County organizations such as the Putnam County Youth Development Commission, Family Support Services of West Central Indiana, Mental Health America of Putnam County, WIC, Hamilton Center, Cummins Behavioral Health Services, Firefly, Putnam County Hospital, and the Department of Children’s Services.

 

The Task Force would like the entire community to demonstrate an awareness of and commitment to the shared responsibility for the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of the children and families in our communities during the month of April. There are a variety of ways that you or your business/organization can get involved:

 

  • On March 31, Wear Blue Day will kick off Child Abuse Prevention Month. Wear Blue Day is an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to collectively and unequivocally draw attention to effective programs and policies that help children and families thrive. By wearing blue, people throughout the country will show their support.

 

  • Plant a Pinwheel Garden in the yard of your home, business, or school. The pinwheel was introduced as the national symbol for Child Abuse Prevention in 2008, and conveys the message that every child deserves to be raised in a healthy, safe, and nurturing environment. Many county schools and businesses plant pinwheel gardens each year during the month of April, and more are always welcome to join in!
  • Display blue porch lights, posters, or window clings at your home or business to promote child abuse prevention.

“By participating in these activities, you are showing that you are committed to sustaining healthy children and families in our community,” says Amber Halloran, Executive Director of the Putnam County Youth Development Commission and Child Abuse Prevention Task Force Member. “These are just a few of the ways that you can get involved….so look for more information in the upcoming weeks regarding other ways that you can show your support.”

 

If you or your business/organization are interested in participating in Child Abuse Prevention Month activities and need pinwheels, yard signs, blue lights, posters, or window clings, please contact Shawna@pcfss.net.

Baird supports bill to expand work-based learning

The Indiana House of Representatives recently advanced legislation supported by State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) that would expand work-based learning opportunities in high schools around the state.

 

Baird said House Bill 1002 would create Career Scholarship Accounts for Hoosier students to pay for career training, apprenticeships, certifications and internships. The legislation would also allow quality, work-based learning to count toward high school graduation requirements and create a framework for students to earn a post-secondary credential.

 

"There are many in-demand jobs you don't need a college degree for, but they still require training," Baird said. "Giving high school students more pathways toward internships and apprenticeships can make them better prepared for the workforce, and help employers find qualified candidates."

 

Baird said Career Scholarship Accounts could be used by sophomores, juniors and seniors to enroll in earn-and-learn opportunities, as well as to pay for items like transportation and uniforms to remove barriers to accessing these experiences. The Indiana Department of Education would approve available courses and tracks, and accounts would be awarded $5,000 under the recently proposed House Republican budget.

 

According to Baird, the proposed legislation could also incentivize schools and career centers to embrace more earn-and-learn partnerships. It would also task the State Board of Education with re-examining high school diploma requirements in order to provide more flexibility in a student’s schedule so they can pursue apprenticeships, applied learning experiences, work-based learning and credentials.

 

The legislation would also allow post-secondary scholarships, such as the Frank O'Bannon Grant and the 21st Century Scholarship, to be used for trainings provided by intermediaries, employers or a labor organization. Baird said this would provide additional opportunities for Hoosiers, who may not be interested in college, to use these funds to skill up and be prepared for the modern workforce.

 

House Bill 1002 is now with the Indiana Senate for further consideration. 

ISP Putnamville District's K9 Jett to receive a bullet and stab protective vest

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

 

K9 Jett’s vest is sponsored by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. through Amazon Smile donor percentage purchase program and will be embroidered with the sentiment “This gift of protection provided by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.”.  Delivery is expected within eight to ten weeks. 

 

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and NIJ certified.  Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 4,970 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations. 

 

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

 

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $985 will sponsor one vest.  Each vest has a value of $1800.00, weighs an average of 4-5 lb., and comes with a five-year warranty.  For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978. 

 

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.   

US 231 restrictions starting on/after April 1 for ongoing major pavement project in Greencastle

The Indiana Department of Transportation announces restrictions on U.S. 231, starting on or after Saturday, April 1.

 

This is part of the ongoing major pavement improvement project in Greencastle. The northbound lane will be restricted between State Road 240 and Washington Street. Northbound traffic will be shifted into the existing southbound lane within the work zone, and will be restricted to ten-feet wide.

 

Crews will be resurfacing U.S. 231 between S.R. 240 and Washington St, and also replacing curbs, gutters and sidewalks within this stretch of road. These restrictions are expected to last through the end of May, weather permitting. 

 

The official detour follows U.S. 231 to eastbound/westbound U.S. 40, or S.R. 240 to northbound/southbound S.R. 75 to eastbound/westbound U.S. 36 to U.S. 231.

 

This contract was awarded to Rieth Riley Construction for $12.3 million. This project includes four phases, and will involve both lane restrictions and closures.

 

The project limits are on U.S. 231, between S.R. 240 and Frazier Street. Work includes milling, curb replacement, curb ramp reconstruction and full-depth pavement replacement work. One-way traffic will be maintained throughout the project, with exception to the closures.

 

INDOT construction contractor Rieth Riley will hold public information meetings before work starts on U.S. 231 in each construction season.

Tri-County Bank President-CEO Chuck Dixon addresses bank safety as Sen. Braun looks to protect against bailouts

Following recent news of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) bailout of two failed banks, Tri-County Bank President-CEO Chuck Dixon offered this statement:

U.S. Senators Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) and Mike Braun (R-Ind.) introduced the Protecting Consumers from Bailouts Act to protect consumers from new fees and to force the big banks to face up to their mistakes.

 

The Biden administration announced that they will impose “special assessment” fees on banks across the country to pay for the Silicon Valley Bank bailout.

 

“Consumers and community banks should not have to shoulder the cost of fiscal irresponsibility by big financial institutions,” said Senator Hawley. “The Biden administration wants to take money from the American taxpayer and local banks through new fees so they can use it to bail out California billionaires. We must protect hardworking Americans and force the big banks to pay for their own mistakes.”

 

“Community banks and their customers in Indiana should not be on the hook for bailing out Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank for their risky financial decisions. We need to make sure responsible community banks and regular Americans are not footing the bill for President Biden’s bank bailout," said Senator Braun.

 

The Protecting Consumers from Bailouts Act would:

 

Bar banks from passing to their customers the cost of any "special assessment" by the FDIC to bail out Silicon Valley Bank or Signature Bank

 

Prevent the FDIC from levying "special assessments" on community banks to pay for bailing out the uninsured depositors of failing banks

 

Allow the FDIC to claw back bonuses paid to executives of failed banks

 

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Indiana's January 2023 employment report

Indiana’s unemployment rate in January stands at 3.1% according to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. By comparison, the national unemployment rate for January stands at 3.4%.

In addition, Indiana’s labor force participation rate held at 63.4% for January, remaining above the national rate of 62.4%. Indiana’s total labor force, which includes both Hoosiers employed and those seeking employment, stands at 3,409,096 – a decrease of 973 from the previous month.

Private sector employment in Indiana increased by 12,600 jobs over the last month, translating to a gain of 85,300 jobs from this time last year. Indiana’s January private employment stands at 2,825,700.

Industries that experienced job increases in January included:

  • Construction (+6,700)
  • Leisure and Hospitality (+4,700)
  • Private Educational and Health Services (+2,500)
  • Trade, Transportation and Utilities (+1,500)
  • Professional and Business Services (+300)

As of March 1, 2023, there were 130,839 open job postings throughout the state. In January, 19,460 unemployment insurance claims were filed in Indiana.

Individuals looking for work, training or career information are encouraged to visit in.gov/dwd/job-seekers.

 

Brownsburg couple charged by US Attorney in the breach of the U.S. Capitol

An Indiana couple has been arrested on felony and misdemeanor charges for their actions during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

 

Their actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the presidential election.

 

Arthur Reyher, 38, and Jessica Reyher, 38, of Brownsburg, are each charged in a criminal complaint filed in the District of Columbia with civil disorder, a felony, and related misdemeanor offenses. The Reyhers were arrested in Indiana. They were expected to make their initial appearances Wednesday in the Southern District of Indiana.

 

According to court documents, on Jan. 6, 2021, Arthur and Jessica Reyhers were among rioters who repeatedly engaged in violence against law enforcement officers guarding the Capitol.  The Reyhers participated in the confrontation with law enforcement officers in the Lower West Terrace and tunnel areas of the Capitol. They entered the tunnel on the Lower West Terrace at approximately 2:43 p.m., making their way into the mob of rioters who were coordinating pushes against police officers. The Reyhers entered the tunnel three separate times to assist in the collective pushes against police officers as the rioters tried to gain access to the Capitol building. While the Reyhers joined in collective pushes, one police officer screamed in pain as the weight of the rioters’ pushes pinned him between a shield and a door. 

 

This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana.

 

The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Indianapolis Field Office and the FBI’s Washington Field Office. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.

 

In the 26 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 999 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, more than 320 individuals are charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing. 

 

Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

 

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Greencastle man arrested for biting baby

A Greencastle man is behind bars in the Boone County Jail after he was arrested for abusing his newborn baby.


Gavan Rogers, 24, Greencastle, is being held in the Boone County Jail without bail and has been charged with two level 5 felonies, neglect of a dependent resulting in bodily injury and domestic battery resulting in bodily injury. He was set to have a court hearing Friday, March 17. 

 

According to court documents, staff at Witham Hospital notified police after observing bruises on an two-week old's wrists, shoulder and knee last November. When asked, Rogers told hospital staff he "play bit" or "open mouth kissed" his child too hard. 


Police didn't buy the story, however, as a detective noticed at least six photos that featured what looked like bite marks on the child. 

 

According to court documents, an officer wrote, "These injuries could only have been inflicted while using excessive force, which would have caused severe pain to the (victim)." 


The officer also noted he saw photos of mouth shaped bruises on the child's shoulder, forearms, stomach, knee and leg. 

 

According to court documents, the baby was seen at Lebanon's Witham Hospital for a newborn checkup and staff there sent her to Riley Hospital for Children and notified the Indiana Department of Child Services of what they observed. 


Rogers stated that he lived in Greencastle with his parents, but had stayed with the baby and her mother in Whitestown since the baby was born and that he gave the baby "love bites" and nibbled too hard. 


Police noted nurses at Witham were concerned for the baby's safety from her birth, adding that Rogers had called the child "ungrateful," "little (expletive)," and "evil."

 

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Toxic shipments returning to Putnam County

A week after shipments of hazardous, toxic waste from the East Palestine, Ohio train wreck were stopped coming to Indiana, they have resumed this week. 


Last week, officials from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency had paused shipments at the request of state and federal elected officials as third party testing began to see if there were toxic levels of dioxins in the materials sent to Heritage Environmental Services' landfill in Roachdale.  

 

Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb, who was a vocal opponent of the material arriving to Indiana this month, has asked that any future loads coming into Indiana be subject to testing to check dioxin levels. 

 

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$50,000 winning Powerball ticket sold in Crawfordsville for Monday's drawing

Hoosier Lottery Powerball tickets should be checked carefully as one entry matched four out of five numbers and the Powerball in Monday night's drawing. 

 

A $50,000 winning ticket was purchased at Kroger #948 located at 1660 Crawfordsville Square Dr. in Crawfordsville.

 

The winning Powerball numbers for Monday, March 13, are: 3-10-24-46-63 with the Powerball of 4.

 

Players can check their tickets with the free Hoosier Lottery Mobile App.

 

The ticket holder should ensure their ticket is in a secure place, consider meeting with a financial advisor and contact Hoosier Lottery customer service at 1-800-955-6886 for specific claim instructions.

 

Indiana had the very first Powerball jackpot winner in 1992 and leads the nation in Powerball jackpot wins with 39.

 

The Powerball jackpot for Wednesday, March 15, is an estimated $63 million.

On My Way Pre-K applications for the 2023-2024 school year now available

Following a record-setting year of enrollment for On My Way Pre-K, Indiana’s Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning is now accepting applications for the 2023-2024 school year.

 

On My Way Pre-K allows 4-year-olds from lower-income families to receive a free, high-quality, prekindergarten education through Indiana’s only state-sponsored prekindergarten program. Information about the program and the link to apply can be found at OnMyWayPreK.org.

 

“We enrolled more than 6,200 children in 2022 and expect to enroll even more this year,” said Courtney Penn, director of FSSA’s Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning. “The Purdue University long-term study released last year showed that children who attend On My Way Pre-K are better prepared for school and that the benefits continue well into elementary school. As we enroll an even larger group of children, we know more will be better prepared to succeed throughout their school years.”

 

For the 2023-2024 school year, a child is eligible for On My Way Pre-K if they:

  • will be 4 years old by Aug. 1, 2023
  • plan to start kindergarten in the 2024-2025 school year
  • live in a household with an income below 127% of the federal poverty level
  • have parents or guardians who are working, attending job training or an educational program, looking for employment, or
  • meet other requirements specified on this page

An easy-to-use, online application called “Early Ed Connect” serves as the application for both On My Way Pre-K and child care assistance provided via the federal Child Care Development Fund or CCDF. Early Ed Connect makes it easy to attach documents and notifies the user that their submission was successfully submitted. A Spanish version is also available.

 

Once the family has met eligibility requirements and completed the enrollment process, they may choose from any of the 1,055 approved On My Way Pre-K programs located across Indiana. These programs are operated in homes, centers, schools and religious settings, allowing families to choose the type of setting that works best for them. Families can search approved providers at www.ChildCareFinder.IN.gov.  

 

If a family needs help working through the enrollment process or finding an approved pre-K program, they can go to navigate.onmywayprek.org to connect with a manager in their county.

 

More than 21,000 Hoosier children have attended pre-K through the On My Way Pre-K program since it began in 2015. The program, which started as a five-county pilot and then expanded to 20 counties in 2017, became a statewide program in 2019. OECOSL also updates the Indiana General Assembly every year on the program. The most recent report can be found here.

 

The Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning is a division of the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration.

 

Families may call 800-299-1627 for assistance from an early learning referral specialist or for other questions about On My Way Pre-K.

 

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Shots fired at Castlebury Apartments

A report of a man with a gun brought Greencastle Police to Castlebury Apartments Tuesday morning.

 

About  8:40 AM, the Greencastle Police received a report of a man with a gun near the playground of Castlebury Apartments. While on the way to investigate, the man fired the weapon, before heading into building 1206 of Castlebury.

 

With the assistance of the Putnam County Sheriff's Office, GPD entered the building and identified the suspect, DeAndre Benjamin, 20, of Greencastle, who was still holding the firearm. He complied with orders to drop the weapon and was arrested without further incident.

 

Police located several spent rounds of ammunition in the area where witnesses saw the suspect initially.

 

There were no injuries during this incident and a spokesperson for the GPD stated, “The Greencastle Police Department is pleased that the incident was resolved quickly and without further violence and/or injury.”

 

Benjamin was transported to the Putnam County Jail and remanded on preliminary charges of Criminal Recklessness with a firearm (level 5 felony), pointing a firearm (level 6 felony), and criminal trespass (A misdemeanor).

 

 

Linton-Stockton basketball coach charged with OVWI in Shelbyville

A veteran Indiana boys basketball coach will not get the opportunity to lead his team in Saturday’s Southport Semistate.

Joseph G. Hart, head coach at Linton-Stockton High School, was remanded into custody of the Shelby County Jail Monday night on the charge of Operating a Vehicle while Intoxicated (OVWI).

Linton-Stockton, the top-ranked team in Class 2A, is scheduled to face Parke Heritage at approximately noon Saturday in the second semifinal of the Southport Semistate.

“Linton-Stockton High School Boys Basketball Coach, Joey Hart, has been suspended indefinitely,” according to a press release by Linton Stockton Schools Superintendent Dr. Kathy Goad. “Assistant Coach Noah Hawkins will take over head coaching duties immediately and until further notice.”

 

 

This is the second suspension for Hart (photo) this season. He was suspended in January for public intoxication after being arrested by the Clay County Sheriff’s Department.

On Monday, the Shelbyville Police Department (SPD) was notified of a possible intoxicated driver on West State Road 44 nearing Shelbyville. The vehicle was observed crossing the center line and swerving.

Officers responded to the area, according to a SPD media release, and located the vehicle on W. McKay Road turning into the Clearview subdivision. The vehicle disregarded a stop sign at Swinford and Theobald streets.

Once the vehicle was stopped, officers noticed a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from inside the car. It also was noted there was a restaurant style cup in a cup holder with no lid. The liquid inside the cup smelled like beer.

At that time, Hart was asked for his driver’s license. He fumbled his wallet while attempting to retrieve it.

Hart was asked to exit the vehicle. He had poor balance and his speech was slurred, according to the media release. He was asked where he was going and he advised Clay City.

When asked if he knew where he was, he said, “Clay City.” He was then advised he was in Shelbyville.

Hart refused to perform field sobriety tests and a Portable Breath Test. He was advised there was probable cause to believe he was operating while intoxicated and was offered to take a chemical test at the police department. Hart refused that test as well.

In 13 seasons as head coach at Linton-Stockton, Hart is 275-72 and has led the Miners to nine sectional titles and two appearances in the Class 2A state championship game – losses to Bowman Academy, 86-73, in 2013 and to Andrean, 59-54, in 2019.

In 25 years overall, Hart is 421-200.

Myers' Market business will continue but Greencastle property it calls home is for sale

Mitch Myers wants the Greencastle and Putnam County area community to know that Myers' Market will go on.

 

It just appears it will be in a different location.

 

DePauw is now planning to sell the property that houses Myers market at 300 – 302 East Washington. 

 

The price tag, just under $300,000, wasn’t a number that Myers wanted to pay to remain there.

 

 

Pending a change with an announced sale or other measure, Myers' Market will continue at its current location.

 

And Mitch says when change comes they’ll adapt and continue on with business and serving the community.

 

 

Putnam Co. road resurfacing project included in SR 47 for road resurfacing project near Turkey Run

The Indiana Department of Transportation announces a moving flagging operation on State Road 47 will begin on or after Wednesday, March 22, near Turkey Run State Park. This is for a road resurfacing project. These restrictions will be between U.S. 41 and about 2.5-miles west of S.R. 59, through the beginning of June, weather permitting. 

 

These restrictions will move as crews progress. Flaggers will be out directing traffic. INDOT reminds motorists to slow down, use caution and consider worker safety when traveling through a work zone. 

 

This contract was awarded to Milestone Contractors South, LLC for $9.8 million. It also involves a road resurfacing project on S.R. 236 in Putnam County. That project is expected to start in May 2023, and will involve a Full Depth Reclamation.

 

The entire contract is expected to be completed in May of 2024.

Inmate recaptured after escape from Clay Co. Jail

A Clay County Jail inmate who escaped while performing kitchen duties was recaptured.

 

Christopher Myers managed to break and door lock and get out of the jail.  U.S. Marshals Service and surrounding law enforcement were called to assist.  With the assistance of an unmanned aerial vehicle technology owned and operated by the Indiana Department of Corrections Myers was spotted just blocks away from the jail.

 

Myers was returned to the Clay County Jail. He's expected to face further charges after a report is forwarded to the prosecutor's office.

US 231 restrictions starting on or after March 20 for bridge repair project in Crawfordsville

The Indiana Department of Transportation announces restrictions on U.S. 231 will start on or after Monday, March 20, for bridge repair work, in Crawfordsville.

 

These restrictions will be on the bridge over Sugar Creek, just south of the Crawfordsville Electric Light & Power plant. This will allow crews to both repair and paint the bridge. The restrictions are expected to last through mid-September, weather permitting.

 

US 231 will be restricted to one lane both northbound and southbound. 

 

This contract was awarded to Central Painting, Inc. for over $1.1 million.

March 12-18 is Severe Weather Preparedness Week

Indiana is no stranger to storms.

 

Snow and ice happen each winter, then in the summer, extreme heat can alter outdoor plans. Even though Hoosiers experience this kind of weather often, they cannot get complacent.

 

That is why Governor Eric J. Holcomb proclaimed March 12-18 Severe Weather Preparedness Week.

 

Each year, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) collaborates with the National Weather Service during Severe Weather Preparedness Week to remind and educate Hoosiers about seasonal severe weather threats and how to prepare effectively for them.

 

"This week reminds us that we all have a role in preparing for severe weather, whether we're emergency responders, community leaders or simply concerned citizens," said Emergency Management and Preparedness Director Mary Moran. 

All Hoosiers should learn the best practices to stay safe, save lives and recover from Indiana’s severe weather.

 

IDHS encourages all families, schools and workplaces to make tornado safety plans. You can practice these plans during the statewide tornado drill at 10:15 a.m. Tuesday, March 14.

 

Throughout the week, IDHS will share severe weather safety tips on FacebookTwitter and Instagram. Follow IDHS and use the hashtags #SevereWx and #SWPW.

ISP targeting Indianapolis street racing events with dozens arrested

A national trend involving street racing, street take-overs and spinning has gotten the attention of the Indiana State Police and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department.

 

Within the past year ISP and IMPD have conducted several special operations targeting these illegal activities resulting in more than 40 arrests and the recovery of over 80 stolen vehicles. 

 

The most recent special operation occurred March 4, 2023, at three locations in the Indianapolis area and resulted in nine arrests. Investigators are currently pursuing leads on others who were involved. IMPD and ISP investigators received information of a planned spinning event potentially involving over 100 cars.

 

Spinning is a trend of utilizing a public park, a parking lot, a street, intersections or even an interstate to perform an action commonly referred to as a doughnut in a vehicle. During these events, several vehicles are used to block roads or parking lots and dozens of bystanders put themselves in dangerous positions to try and record or touch the spinning cars. Often times these events are held without proper permits, or permission from the property owners. Once these cars leave the events it is very common to catch them illegally racing one another on the streets. The Indiana State Police recognizes there are legal and permitted spinning events in Indianapolis, the events being targeted are not those legally occurring. 

 

One of the three targeted events March 4 involved a private parking lot near 34th and Lafayette Road. The owner of the parking lot did not grant permission for the event and had recently spent over $60,000 to resurface and paint his parking lot, which is now heavily damaged from this event.

 

Indiana State Police Area Five Investigations Commander, Lieutenant Jeff Hearon said. "The Indiana State Police will continue to commit necessary resources to target these illegal and dangerous events. Legitimate car clubs, concerned citizens and community members have played a vital role in providing information to assist detectives with these investigations. The disregard for public safety and personal property shown by these groups is egregious, and we are committed to holding them accountable for their reckless behavior."

 

During these special operations, the Indiana State Police Helicopter and Aviation Section have played an important role to bring safe conclusion to those who choose to flee from officers. 

 

Arrested March 4:

  • Eusebio Felipe Moreno Jr. (21) - Resisting Law Enforcement with a Vehicle
  • Luis F. Campillo (18) - Criminal Recklessness
  • Anthony Henderson (25) - Criminal Recklessness
  • John L. Baker (20) - Resisting Law Enforcement with a Vehicle; Criminal Recklessness
  • Craig Murry (23) - Resisting Law Enforcement with a Vehicle; Driving While Suspended; Reckless Driving
  • Shelby Waugh (21) Resisting Law Enforcement (Misdemeanor)
  • Marquis Gibbs (24) Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
  • Patrick Gerlach (20) Criminal Recklessness
  • Kadryn Williams (21) Criminal Recklessness

These investigations are ongoing and detectives expect more arrests as a result of the March 4 events. All crimes mentioned in this release are alleged and all suspects are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

 

The charges listed were used as probable cause for arrest, actual charges will be determined by the Marion County Prosecutor's Office upon review of the cases. 

Russell Harvey joins Greencastle City Council and to become Executive Director of Main Street Greencastle

It's a week of change for Russell Harvey.

 

First, transitioning from member of the Greencastle School Board to his first meeting on Thursday night as a member of the Greencastle City Council.

 

Pictured:  Frazier (left) talks with fellow council member Darrell Thomas at city hall Thursday

 

Second, add in that Harvey has now agreed to join Main Street Greencastle as its new executive director and you might excuse him if he feels he’s coming and going at the same time.

 

It wasn’t that long ago that Harvey was appointed to the school board by the city council.  Harvey was named to the vacant city council seat by the county’s Democrat party when First Ward Greencastle City Councilman Adam Cohen announced he would step down from the post due to health reasons.

 

 

Harvey's first city council meeting was Thursday.  He says while there will be some learning on the job he feels his work on several community boards and commissions will aid this new experience.

 

 

Harvey will also make the transition to Main Street.  While training, he says his full-time at Crown will remain his “day” job with learning the ropes at Main Street being the “night” job

Putnam County Library introduces digital kiosk for free legal resources and services

The Putnam County Public Library is now home to a digital kiosk offering legal resources and services for free to Putnam County residents and visitors.

 

This new resource is located on the upper level of the library, near the reference desk.

 

Officials from the Indiana Bar Foundation (Foundation), Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA), and Indiana Supreme Court unveiled 120 IndianaLegalHelp.org kiosks in November. Kiosks are now being installed across the state, including at PCPL.

 

“We are excited to have been chosen as a kiosk location,” said Library Director Matt McClelland. “Navigating the legal system can be a challenge. Hopefully this kiosk will be a great resource for our patrons who need it.”

 

The kiosks provide a way for Hoosiers to easily access IndianaLegalHelp.org, a Foundation program connecting Hoosiers to legal resources and services. The IndianaLegalHelp.org website, which has seen over one million visits since its launch, includes legal forms, instructional videos, referrals to free and low-cost legal services, and a statewide calendar of free legal advice clinics. The IndianaLegalHelp.org kiosks will initially focus on serving Hoosiers facing eviction or housing instability and will expand to include other legal topics later this year.

 

“Through IndianaLegalHelp.org and a network of statewide partners engaged in assisting Hoosiers facing housing-related civil legal issues, the Foundation is uniquely positioned to expand services statewide and connect underserved communities with services not previously accessible,” said Foundation President & CEO Charles Dunlap.

 

In Indiana, housing evictions are considered a civil matter, meaning individuals are not provided legal representation and are often left to navigate the legal system independently. Resources like the IndianaLegalHelp.org kiosks are critical in helping Hoosiers access the civil legal system and make the resources on IndianaLegalHelp.org available to individuals who don’t have access to reliable internet at home.

 

Indiana Chief Justice Loretta Rush explained, “These kiosks are an example of the courts embracing innovative solutions to increase access to justice. Indiana has some of the highest eviction rates in the country. To ensure solutions we must implement an avenue for people in the justice system to seek help.”

 

Last year, the Foundation received a $13 million contract from IHCDA to fund housing stability legal services across the state. Kiosk development and deployment come from this two-year contract.

 

In addition, the Foundation and seven statewide partners are collaborating to offer a network of legal services, including brief advice legal clinics, legal aid attorneys, and non-attorney legal navigators to support Hoosiers facing eviction. The partners include:

 

  • Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Inc.
  • Indiana Legal Services, Inc.
  • Indianapolis Legal Aid Society, Inc.
  • Legal Aid Corporation of Tippecanoe County
  • Legal Aid Society of Evansville, Inc.
  • Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic
  • Pro Bono Indiana, Inc.

 

Individuals needing legal help with an eviction or housing instability are encouraged to access resources offered at IndianaLegalHelp.org.

Single-lane traffic on westbound I-465 begins Friday night

Starting Friday night traffic patterns on the southwest side of Indianapolis will change to allow I-69 Finish Line to enter its next phase of construction: widening and rebuilding I-465 eastbound, which will include a new bridge over the White River.

 

Beginning at 8 p.m. on Friday, March 10 through 5 a.m. on Monday, March 13, traffic on westbound I-465 between I-65 and I-70 on the city’s southwest side will be limited to a single lane.  During the weekend restrictions crews will shift the westbound lanes to the north in preparation for an eastbound switch later in the month.

 

During the double-lane restriction the speed limit on westbound I-465 will be reduced to 45 miles per hour.  The speed limit on eastbound I-465 will remain at 55 miles per hour, and all motorists are encouraged to slow down, pay attention to changing conditions and drive distraction-free.

 

This short video shows where roadways and ramps are restricted during the weekend work.  A graphic representation of the same information can be found here.

 

To reduce traffic volume and the number of conflict points in the construction zone, several westbound entrance ramps onto I-465 will close during this weekend’s lane restrictions. Starting Friday at 8 p.m. the following ramps will be closed:

  • I-65 southbound to I-465 westbound
  • I-65 northbound to I-465 westbound
  • U.S. 31 southbound to I-465 westbound
  • U.S. 31 northbound to I-465 westbound
  • S.R. 37 (Harding Street) southbound to I-465 westbound

The U.S. 31 southbound to I-465 westbound ramp closure will remain in place through 2024.  All other ramps will reopen by 5 a.m. on Monday, March 13.

 

A similar restriction for eastbound I-465 is currently scheduled for March 24-27, but is dependent upon weather and the schedule is subject to change. 

 

During the weekend of westbound restrictions, I-65 northbound traffic will be detoured north to I-70 westbound at the South Split. The nearest entry point to the I-465 westbound work zone is Emerson Avenue.

 

Motorists can expect increased congestion during both weekends of restrictions and are encouraged to plan ahead and find alternate routes. 

 

The most current information about closures and restrictions can be found on INDOT’s TrafficWise map at 511in.org and is also available on INDOT’s TrafficWise app for smartphones.

Public information meeting to be held for major pavement improvement project on US 231 in Greencastle

The Indiana Department of Transportation announces a public information meeting will be held Wednesday, March 22 for the ongoing major pavement improvement project on U.S. 231 in Greencastle. 

 

The meeting will be held at the Putnam County Fairgrounds. The meeting will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

 

This project includes three phases. INDOT construction contractor Rieth Riley will hold public information meetings before work starts on U.S. 231 at the beginning of each construction season. 

 

  • Phase One, which is now complete, involved work from the beginning of the project (S.R. 240) to the intersection of Washington Street and Bloomington Street. It also involved pavement patching from the railroad crossing to the end of the project under a flagging operation. This was on U.S. 231 between State Road 240 (Veterans Memorial Highway) and Frazier Street.
  • Phase Two also involves work from the beginning of the project (S.R. 240) to the intersection of Washington St. and Bloomington St. That work will include milling, curb replacement, and curb ramp reconstruction. Under this phase, work will also happen on Jackson Street from the railroad crossing to the end of the project (W. Frazier St.). That work includes storm sewer construction and milling. Crews will maintain one-way, northbound traffic at a posted speed limit of 20 miles-per-hour. Access will be maintained for residents and business owners.
  • Phase Three involves full-depth pavement replacement work from the intersection of Washington Street and Bloomington Street to the railroad crossing on Jackson St. INDOT construction contractor Rieth Riley will hold a public information meeting in March of 2024. Crews will maintain one-way, northbound traffic during construction, at a posted speed limit of 20 miles-per-hour. Construction will only close one ramp per city block at any given time. 

Alternate routes, as needed, include U.S. 231 to U.S. 40 to S.R. 75 to U.S. 36 and back, or U.S. 231 to S.R. 240 to S.R. 75 to U.S. 36 and back.

 

This public information meeting is an opportunity for INDOT construction contractor Rieth Riley to meet with members of the community regarding the road work and address concerns community members may have regarding the project.

Governor Holcomb releases third-party testing results on East Palestine waste

Governor Eric J. Holcomb Wednesday released third-party testing results from the East Palestine train derailment.

 

He released the following statement:

 

“Pace Labs has completed and shared the full results of their third-party dioxin testing I had ordered and expedited last week. Initial samples were taken on Saturday morning, March 4, and testing began that same day at their Minneapolis laboratory.

 

These results indicate that the material tested does not contain any harmful levels of dioxins when compared to acceptable levels established by the EPA. Furthermore, these results demonstrate that the site operator is lawfully permitted to dispose of that material at its site. We have informed the EPA and the site operator of these testing results.

 

We will have Pace Labs continue to test samples of any future loads that may arrive in Indiana from East Palestine to confirm that none of the material contains harmful levels of dioxins,” Gov. Holcomb said.

 

Click HERE to view the final results.

Improper disposal of dead animals leads to arrest of Parke County man

A Parke County man has been charged with improper disposal of dead animals.

 

The Parke County Sheriff's Office began an investigation after several calls and complaints about improper care and disposal of animals.  Deputies located a site in northern Parke County where more than a dozen dead cows, sheep and goats were found.

 

Connor Crum, 22, of Bloomingdale, was arrested on a felony warrant for failure to properly dispose of a dead animal.  Crum was arrested when he was stopped for a traffic violation.

 

 

 

 

Go Fund Me account raising money for Miles family

A Go Fund Me account has raised over half of its goal for a family devastated by twqo deaths in Putnam County last week.

 

Emergency personnel responded Friday evening to responded to County Road 500 North near the intersection of County Road 25 West.  A large tree uprooted and fell on a car.

 

Brooke Miles, 46, and Richard Miles Sr., 64, were pronounced dead at the scene.

both died at the scene. Brooke's husband, Rick Jr., was taken to an Indianapolis hospital.  Two children were also transported at the time for treatment at Riley Hospital for Children with less serious injuries.

 

Brooke Miles was a teacher at Bainbridge Elementary.

 

The link to the Go Fund Me account:  https://www.gofundme.com/f/k7q2c-miles-family?qid=357d3bbdf8b5b94f5c5404b9ca9d461a

Silver Alert: Darrell Meador, 74, of Avon

The Hendricks County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the disappearance of Darrell Meador.

 

Meador is a 74 year old white male, 6 feet tall, 195 pounds, with gray hair and brown eyes.  He last seen wearing a black, red and white long sleeve shirt and blue jeans, and driving an orange 2015 Ford Escape with Indiana registration D187FC.

 

Darrell is missing from Avon, and was last seen on Tuesday, March 7, at 9:00am. 

 

He is believed to be in extreme danger and may require medical assistance. 

 

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

Shipments to Putnam County landfill from East Palestine halted

A week after three truckloads of soil from the fiery East Palestine, Ohio train derailment arrived in Putnam County, they have been stopped for the time being.

 

Officials with the Environmental Protection Agency announced Tuesday it will temporarily halt the shipments to Indiana from the train derailment site. A little over a month ago, a train carrying toxic and combustible chemicals derailed, sending toxic material into the soil. 

 

The decision to halt shipments comes on the heels of protests from Putnam County residents, as well as elected officials, with the bulk of the protests centering around Indiana officials not knowing shipments were headed to Putnam County until after the fact and whether or not the material contains dioxins, which are compounds known to cause cancer. 

 

According to the EPA, no dioxins have been found in soil and sediment testing at the East Palestine site. Instead, officials state trichloromethane, vinyl chloride and xylenes have all been found and all three are listed as "hazardous" by OHSA. 

 

The decision to halt shipments comes on the heels of Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb asking Minnesota-based Pace Analytics to do third party sampling immediately of the shipments that arrived at the Heritage Environmental Services landfill in Putnam County. 

 

U.S. Sen. Mike Braun has also been vocal about the shipments arriving in Indiana. 

 

"This halted shipment should stay halted, and the Biden EPA should explain why they started shipping material to Indiana instead of Michigan as originally planned," Braun said. 

Gov. Holcomb directs flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of fallen Indiana State Trooper

Governor Eric J. Holcomb is directing flags to be flown at half-staff in the State of Indiana in honor and remembrance of Master Trooper James R. Bailey who was killed in the line of duty.

 

Flags should be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, March 11.

 

Gov. Holcomb is asking businesses and residents in Indiana to lower their flags to half-staff.

Work continues on I-70 box culvert installation starting on/after March 13, near Little Point

The Indiana Department of Transportation has announced work continues on a box culvert installation project under I-70.

 

Starting on or after Monday, March 13, crews will be conducting nighttime lane closures on I-70 eastbound and westbound, in order to shift traffic and install barrier walls. The restrictions will be between County Road 1100 and State Road 231. Traffic will be shifted to two, 11-foot lanes, both eastbound and westbound, separated by the barrier wall. 

 

These restrictions will be between 9:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. The transition to the new traffic configuration is expected to take about a week, weather permitting. 

 

This contract was awarded to Morphey Construction, Inc. for $3.6 million. The contract completion date is in early July. 

Putnam County bridge projects scheduled to begin Monday

The Indiana Department of Transportation announces restrictions will start on U.S. 231 and State Road 240 for two bridge rehabilitation projects in Putnam County on or after Monday, March 13.

 

One bridge is on U.S. 231 near Cloverdale, approximately 1.5 miles north of I-70, over the Lower Limestone Creek.

 

The other bridge, on S.R. 240, is located approximately 1.1 miles west of S.R. 75, near Greencastle and Stilesville. 

 

For both bridge rehabilitation projects, there will be temporary signals ahead of the bridges, which will alternate traffic through one lane at a time. These restrictions are expected to last through the end of June, weather permitting.

 

This contract was awarded to Milestone Contractors, L.P. for $1.5 million. It's expected to be completed in September 2023

 

Deputies spot stolen car and make arrests after pursuit

Hendricks County Sheriff’s Deputies located a stolen Toyota passenger car in the area of US 36 and Ronald Reagan Pkwy.  Once the officer initiated a traffic stop to investigate the stolen vehicle, the suspect vehicle fled from officers leading them on a short vehicle pursuit.   The pursuit ended when the suspect drove onto a concrete curb and became immobile. 

Both occupants of the vehicle fled on foot and were apprehended a short time later by Hendricks County deputies and members of the Avon Police Department.  The driver of the vehicle was identified as Brian Hubbard, 24, of Indianapolis, and the passenger was identified as Michael Henson, 23, also of Indianapolis. 

Hubbard will be facing initial charges of two counts of Resisting Law Enforcement, Unauthorized Entry of a Vehicle, Operating While Intoxicated, and possession of marijuana and paraphernalia.  Henson will be facing initial charges of Unauthorized Entry of a Vehicle, Resisting Law Enforcement. 

Henson and Hubbard both sustained non-life threatening injuries during the incident and one Avon Police Officer suffered an ankle injury during the foot pursuit. 

Gov. Holcomb gives update on East Palestine waste

Governor Eric J. Holcomb today issued the following statement related to an update on testing of the East Palestine hazardous waste directed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to be transported to Indiana:

 

Since yesterday when I directed the third-party testing of any material arriving from the East Palestine train spill, the EPA today provided us a written commitment that any further material scheduled for shipment to Indiana from the East Palestine train spill site will undergo testing to confirm there are no harmful levels of dioxins before heading to Indiana. This is the right decision for the EPA to take this important step.

 

As for the materials that are already enroute prior to the EPA announcement, our teams have been working with the third-party laboratory to expedite the testing of those truck loads which should bear detailed results sometime early next week. Samples are now scheduled to be taken Saturday, March 4, with testing to begin that same day at the Pace Laboratory. The site operator is supportive of this testing and has been cooperative in helping us carry this out. We will share any results with the public in an effort to be open and transparent as soon as they become available.    

 

I do want to commend the result of strong and constructive collaboration of elected leaders at the local, state and federal level. The advice and communication across the board was critical in reaching this result to provide assurances to our communities. We will continue to provide further updates, as necessary,” Gov. Holcomb said.

Protest planned today against toxic East Palestine materials

Morgan Myers understands what it means to fight for something she believes in.

 

The Putnam County resident served her country as a member of the United States Marine Corps and was exposed to toxic chemicals. 

 

She is now doing everything in her power to raise awareness and protest the toxic materials that have arrived in at the Heritage Environmental Services hazardous waste landfill from East Palestine, Ohio. 

 

"I am now a scar covered billboard for what environmental damage does. I am a breast cancer survivor of six years. I am fortunate to be alive, while my friend Sgt. Alyson Perez is not. She left behind two young children, and I believe if she were here today, she would be fighting alongside me for environmental justice for our community to ensure that our children will be safe. She is dead from toxic exposure. It is my duty to prevent this from happening to others. If our community isn't outraged, then they aren't paying attention," Myers told The Putnam County Post. 

 

She is trying to raise awareness and attention, having organized a protest Thursday that began at Heritage and ended at the Putnam County Courthouse. 

Myers admitted the protest was "emotionally draining," and said she felt ill after being at the Heritage Environmental Services landfill.

 

"After protesting over there, mine and my daughter's lungs are heavy and have a burning feeling. There was only seven of us. It was small, but I knew a stand had to be made. I felt like none of our elected officials stood up for us at the community meeting in Russellville. It felt like that meeting was just to appease the public. There were already three loads of the toxic waste there at the facility before we even had the meeting. The toxic waste was coming, regardless of our concerns. It was obvious after that meeting that we, the people, were going to have to be the onest to fight this. If not us, then who?," Myers said. 

 

And, she is continuing the fight, organizing a protest today at noon at the Putnam County Courthouse. 

 

"If you care about the well being of our Putnam County children and if you don't want them to be a part of a future documentary series of why everyone here has cancer and fertility issues, you absolutely need to make a stand and let the entire county know that this is not right or acceptable for Putnam County or any other community," Myers said. 

 

Myers admits she is worried about dioxins being released into local water and the environment. 

 

"Dioxins cause fertility issues, miscarriages and cancer. I am worried that Putnam County is going to end up being a documentary in the next few years. East Palestine, Ohio is already destroyed. Why take the chance of moving the chemicals again to run another community. The Heritage facility has had violation after violation and I don't trust that they have any of Putnam County's best interests in mind. All they are concerned about is money," Myers said. 

 

Living close to the facility, Myers notes her children "live in the creeks over the summer."

 

"Like many residents, we fish in these creeks, swim in them, and eat the fish we catch. Who will be overseeing the practices of this facility to make sure we don't have a leak and how often will they be testing the waters," she mentioned. 

 

What would she like to see happen as a result of the protests?

 

"My hope is for the best possible outcome. It is a lose-lose situation all around, but I think the toxic waste should be handled in the area that it has already destroyed. It should stay in East Palestine and not be brought to the other communities across the nation to ruin our environments as well. It is a horrible situation for all of us," she said.

 

Myers is also optimistic Norfolk Southern is held accountable.  

 

"The Norfolk Southern Corporation needs to be held accountable for these atrocities. We need better regulations on trains, including steeper fines for safety regulations/violations, and a focused safety inspection program on routes over which high hazard flammable trains travel," Myers said. 

 

And, she wants to seel the soil tested.

 

"I want the soil being brought in to be tested for dioxins and if found, it needs to be removed immediately. I also want Heritage Environmental Services to be scrutinized and to make sure that they are following every regulation to a T. I want to make sure that our water is being tested and reported on regularly. I want money set aside for training locals on toxic waste cleanup if a leak were to happen and money set aside for the potential health issues that our community may be facing in the future as well," Myers said. 

Fatal accident Friday in Putnam Co.

According to the Indiana State Police Putnamville Post, an accident Friday morning claimed the life of an Indiana resident. 

 

Just after 10:30 a.m.,  police and emergency responders were dispatched to I-70 eastbound, near the 45 mile marker to investigate a single car accident. 

 

Upon arrival, Trooper Brad Fyfe noted a 2023 Dodge truck driven by Michael W. Frazier, 64, of Spencer, was traveling westbound on I-70 when he lost control of the truck, traveled into the median and struck an earth embankment, causing the truck to roll. 

 

The vehicle came to a rest right side up. Fyfe and an off-duty Vigo County Deputy administered lifesaving first aid, but Frazier was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Putnam County Coroner's office.

 

Police do not believe alcohol and drugs played a role in the accident. 

 

Responding agencies included the Putnam County Coroner's Office, Cloverdale Police, Vigo County Sheriff's Department, Cloverdale Volunteer Fire Department, Indiana State Police and Seniour's Towing. 

Baird requests immediate halt of hazardous materials delivery to Roachdale facility

Congressman Baird sent a letter to the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) requesting further deliveries of hazardous materials from the East Palestine train derailment to the Heritage Environmental Services in Roachdale, IN, be halted immediately.

 

“Last week, our state was blindsided by the announcement that the EPA would be relocating hazardous materials from the East Palestine train derailment to Roachdale,” said Congressman Baird. “Hoosiers deserve to know exactly what’s happening in their own backyard, and until we have full transparency and proper oversight, I am respectfully asking IDEM to halt further transportation of hazardous materials to our state.”

 

Read a copy of the letter here

The National Weather Service warns of rain with possible flooding and high winds

A flood watch remains in effect through late tonight for much of central Indiana.

 

The flooding to be caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. Rainfall totals of 2 to 3 inches are currently forecast for the region.

 

Locally higher amounts are possible.

 

The watch includes the following counties - In West Central Indiana, Clay, Owen, Parke, Putnam, Vermillion And Vigo.

 

In central Indiana - Bartholomew, Decatur, Hancock, Hendricks, Johnson, Marion, Morgan, Rush and Shelby.

 

In south central Indiana, Brown, Jackson, Lawrence and Monroe. In southeast Indiana, Jennings.

 

In southwest Indiana, Daviess, Greene, Knox, Martin And Sullivan.

 

Also, a wind advisory remains in effect from 10 a.m. Friday morning to 10 pm EST. Northeast winds are forecast to be at 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 45 mph expected.

Brazil, IN native Standiford "Stan" Cox legacy provides grants to preserve African American historic sites in Indiana

Two funds honoring the legacy of an Eli Lilly chemist will provide grants to organizations working to preserve significant African American landmarks in Indiana.

 

Standiford “Stan” Cox, who passed away in February 2019, joined Eli Lilly and Co. in 1957 as its first Black chemist and was a generous advocate for the preservation of African American heritage sites. During his lifetime, he established two funds with Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF), one in his name and one to honor his parents.

 

The Standiford H. Cox Fund supports the restoration, preservation, operation, and ongoing maintenance of African American historic sites in Indiana. The Dovie Stewart Cox & Chester A. Cox Sr. Memorial Fund provides support for Lost Creek Community Grove at the Lost Creek Settlement near Terre Haute, one of the state’s earliest settlements of free people of color.

 

“Stan Cox has left an incredible legacy to the people of Indiana,” said Mark Dollase, vice president of preservation services at Indiana Landmarks. “We are honored to work with the Central Indiana Community Foundation in a partnership that will aid in the restoration of important African American landmarks for years to come.”

 

Born in Brazil, IN, Cox was an Indiana University graduate who worked for 32 years for Eli Lilly and Co., beginning as a chemist and holding a variety of positions during his career. A member of Phi Beta Kappa, the nation’s most prestigious academic society, he also earned a master’s degree from Butler University. An advocate for academic biochemical research, he endowed the Standiford H. Cox Professorship in Biochemistry at Indiana University in Bloomington.

 

Indiana Landmarks will continue in its role as a key preservation advisor to the funds, drawing on the expertise of its the Black Heritage Preservation Program Committee to identify significant places and evaluate projects that the program could assist. The group will make initial recommendations to CICF in June.

 

“CICF is honored to continue supporting the preservation of the history, legacy, and richness of Black communities through the Standiford H. Cox Fund,” said Brian Payne, CEO of Central Indiana Community Foundation.

 

In 2022, the fund awarded $150,000 to nine projects, including masonry repairs at Allen Chapel AME Church in Indianapolis and installation of a high-efficiency furnace at St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church in Gary, a 1959 church designed by Modernist architect Edward Dart.

 

In addition to grants for capital improvements, CICF also distributes grants for architectural or engineering services and supports nominations to the National Register of Historic Places on an ongoing basis throughout the year. The Church of God in Christ in Patoka in Gibson County received a planning grant in 2021 to help nominate the c.1900 Patoka Colored School to the National Register; the building was successfully listed in November 2022.

 

Applications for Cox Funds grants are due by April 1, 2023. Groups interested in pursuing an application for a grant from the Cox Funds should contact Indiana Landmarks at coxfunds@indianalandmarks.org.

 

Sites will be assessed based on criteria including architectural and/or historical significance, opportunities for redevelopment, threat of demolition, and significance to Indiana’s African American heritage. Applicants must be a non-profit organization with active 501(c)3 status.

 

For more information, contact Mark Dollase, vice president of preservation at Indiana Landmarks, 317-639-4534, 800-450-4534, mdollase@indianalandmarks.org, or Wahid Ahmed, community leadership officer at CICF, WahidA@cicf.org.

 

 

Gov. Holcomb orders 3rd party testing of East Palestine waste as protesters raise voices

Governor Eric J. Holcomb Thursday announced he directed his administration to contract with third party provider Pace Labs to immediately conduct testing of the hazardous materials being shipped from the East Palestine train derailment to an Indiana facility.

 

Gov. Holcomb offered the following statement:

“Effective immediately, I have directed our administration to contract with a nationally recognized
laboratory to begin rigorous 3rd party testing for dangerous levels of dioxins on the material being transported to the Roachdale facility from the East Palestine train spill.

As I indicated in an earlier statement, it was extremely disappointing to learn through a press conference held on Monday, Feb. 27, 2023, confirming that the EPA had chosen Indiana as a location to deposit and remediate the waste from East Palestine, Ohio. This was made after our administration directly conveyed that the materials should go to the nearest facilities, not moved from the far eastern side of Ohio to the far western side of Indiana. As you can expect, I expressed as much to the EPA administrator when we spoke on the phone Tuesday, Feb. 28.

All of us can agree that we should do everything within our control to provide assurance to our communities. This testing is the next necessary step. Since making this decision, we have informed the EPA and the site operator urging them to coordinate closely with this 3rd party laboratory to carry out this important testing. Sampling is scheduled to begin tomorrow, Friday, March 3,” Gov. Holcomb said.

 

Protesters spoke to GIANT fm News and the Putnam County Post Thursday afternoon.

 

 

Heritage Environmental accepts toxic waste

The toxic waste is already here.

 

The landfill outside Roachdale is operated by Heritage Environmental Services and accepted and dumped three truckloads, approximately 20 tons each, of contaminated soil just hours before the meeting they held Wednesday to address the public concerns of Putnam County residents.

 

Heritage Environmental attempted to alleviate concerns at a public meeting at the Russellville Community Center, explaining the toxin-contaminated soil they agreed to receive was butyl acetate, a chemical compound often found in paint. And while the soil also contains vinyl chloride, it is well below the limit of what the facility can handle. In fact, the facility can handle up to 6 parts per million and the soil has only been tested to have .033 parts per million.

 

This information, however, did not appease the concerned and vocal crowd who demanded to see the paperwork, the test results, which were not publicly available last night or at the time of this article.

 

Community members each stood up, sharing their concerns and asking their questions. But the answer to one question, about an hour into the meeting, caused an outcry of angry boos from the audience. It was asked if the contaminated soil was already delivered and received, to which the answer was yes. Three truckloads, for a total of 60 tons were delivered, accepted, and dumped prior to the meeting.

 

Heritage Environmental tried to explain the soil they received and will continue to receive (an estimated 100 truckloads at an average of 20 tons of contaminated soil is expected) is no different than the materials they have routinely been handling since they officially opened in 1981.

 

Whether or not the company has been handling similar toxins over the last 40+ years did not soothe the crowd, as many of them wondered why the meeting was held if the company was going to accept the waste regardless of public concern.

 

The company reiterated that all of the contaminant levels are well below the limits that they're allowed to accept at the landfill and the landfill is designed specifically for toxins, such as these.

Sen. Braun and Cong. Baird draft a letter against contaminated waste from Ohio derailment being brought to Putnam Co.

Senator Mike Braun and Congressman Jim Baird sent a letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan demanding answers on why a shipment of hazardous materials from the East Palestine train derailment was halted on its way to an EPA-approved facility in Michigan, and why Indiana was instead chosen.

 

On February 24, the EPA started shipping contaminated soil and water to a landfill facility in Michigan licensed to deal with that type of material by the EPA. Michigan Congresswomen Debbie Dingell and Rashida Tlaib held a press conference that day saying they don’t want the material in their state.

 

Thirty minutes later, the EPA announced they had halted the cleanup and delivery of contaminated materials to the licensed hazardous waste facility in Michigan. Five truckloads of contaminated materials were returned to East Palestine. 

 

On February 27, EPA announced two other facilities – one in Ohio, and one in Roachdale, – would begin to receive materials.

 

EPA said they’d notify elected officials. Governor Eric Holcomb said in a statement on February 28 that he learned about the decision to ship the materials to Indiana “third-hand.”

 

The Indiana facility was the first facility outside of Ohio to receive contaminated materials after EPA exerted control over the cleanup. The Roachdale facility is further away from the East Palestine site than the Michigan facility. 

 

“We are concerned that, rather than a matter of safety, the decision to halt the Norfolk Southern cleanup was made in response to objections from elected officials in Michigan,” Senator Braun and Congressman Baird wrote in the letter to Administrator Regan. 

 

The letter requests answers to the many questions regarding EPA’s decision-making, including:

 

Exactly when did EPA decide to halt the Norfolk Southern cleanup?

 

When EPA halted the Norfolk Southern cleanup, contaminated materials that were en route to a disposal facility were returned to East Palestine. What specific criteria were used to make this decision?

 

In its official statements on February 25 and 26, EPA explained that each of the sites chosen by Norfolk Southern were “up to the standards” and “EPA-approved” to dispose contaminated materials. If that is the case:

 

Why did EPA halt the Norfolk Southern cleanup?

 

Why did EPA recertify the Vickery, Ohio and East Liverpool, Ohio facilities, but not the Belleville, Michigan; Romulus, Michigan; or Deer Park, Texas facilities?

 

What on-site testing procedures are in place in East Palestine to test contaminated materials for the types and levels of contamination before they are transported to a facility for disposal?

 

Is EPA working to preemptively test and determine that facilities are certified to process the contaminants they are being asked to process?


Senator Braun’s statement on the transfer: 

“I am opposed to the transfer of hazardous materials from the East Palestine train derailment into Indiana. The Biden EPA and Transportation Department have mishandled this disaster from day one. Any material from this disaster being transferred to Indiana overseen by this Biden EPA is seriously concerning. Hoosiers’ safety is my top priority.”

 

Congressman Baird’s statement on the transfer: 

“For over a week, this administration has failed to properly address the public safety crisis created by the train derailment in Ohio, and now they’re blindsiding neighboring states by hastily relocating hazardous materials across state lines, jeopardizing countless Americans,” said Congressman Baird. “There are very serious implications associated with the relocation of such serious carcinogens, and this administration has a responsibility to carefully weigh the safest options before making rash decisions. My responsibility is to keep my constituents safe, and I will continue to push for transparency and stand up for the safety and well-being of the Hoosiers I’m proud to represent.”

Scams threatening arrest reported by ISP

The Indiana State Police has received several concerns from citizens reporting an apparent phone scam. 

ISP receives numerous reports of phone scams each year, but this particular scam involves using the ISP General Headquarters phone number.

The scammer is using a Caller ID showing “Indiana State Police” with “317-232-8248”. The scammer then identifies him/herself as an Indiana State Police Trooper and tells them they have drug charges pending in Texas. The scammer then threatens the citizen with arrest if a payment is not made.

ISP says they would never call and ask for or demand any sort of payment for any reason whatsoever.

The ISP would like to remind all citizens that phone scammers are persuasive, convincing, and technically savvy. Scammers will often play on your emotions and fears in order to get your personal information and money.

The easiest way to protect yourself from being scammed over the phone is to either ignore unsolicited calls from unknown callers or just hang up when something doesn’t seem right. If you feel as though you have been a victim of a phone scam, immediately report the incident to your local law enforcement agency and alert your bank as soon as possible so the payment can be stopped.

As a reminder, never give out personal information such as date of birth, social security number, or bank/credit card numbers. Many of these scammers want you to make a hasty decision and may pressure you to get your money or personal information. Be aware that transactions made by prepaid card or wire transfer are nearly impossible to recover once sent.

Gov. Holcomb appoints Don Lamb as new executive director of the Department of Agriculture

Governor Eric J. Holcomb announced today 2nd -generation farmer Don Lamb, from Lebanon, Indiana, will become the new executive director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA).

 

“Don is not only a 2nd-generation farmer, but also a successful agribusinessman and understands the significant and leading role the ag industry plays in Indiana,” said Gov. Holcomb. “In looking for a new executive director for the Indiana Department of Agriculture, it was important to find someone who would be a strong steward of our land and all that it produces. Don truly cares about the Hoosier ag community and securing Indiana’s place as a global leader in the agricultural industry for generations to come.”

 

Lamb is the co-owner and operator of Lamb Farms Inc., along with his brother and father. The farm produces popcorn, corn, soybeans and wheat. The family also owns AgRecycle, a composting and recycling business, and Lamb Farms Agronomy, which provides soil management and crop production products to surrounding farms.

 

“Indiana is now the 8th-ranked agricultural product producing state in the country, this industry contributes more than $35 billion dollar to our economy,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Indiana’s Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “Don engrained himself in the agricultural community at an early age, not just focusing on his own operation. He has the leadership skills to not only lead the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, but to the state’s ag industry into the future. I look forward to working with him.”

 

Lamb is a member of the Advisory Council for the Indiana Agricultural Law Foundation. Lamb will be stepping down as Vice President of the Boone County Council and policy chair of his local Farm Bureau Board to assume his position with the ISDA. 

 

“I am so thankful for this opportunity from Gov. Holcomb and Lt. Gov. Crouch,” said Lamb. “I have worked in the agriculture industry for my whole life and this is the only job I would take off the farm. I am excited to work with the great team at ISDA and to become an even better advocate for this industry I love.”

 

Lamb graduated from Purdue University in 1989 with a bachelor's degree in Agricultural Economics. He was named the Agricultural Professional of the Year in 2014 by the Boone County Chamber of Commerce.

 

Lamb will begin in his new role on March 13.

Putnam County Health Department statement on Ohio train derailment waste

Heritage Environmental is scheduled to hold a meeting Wednesday, March 1, on the contaminated waste from the East Palestine, OH, train derailment being brought into Putnam County.

 

That meeting will now be held at 7 p.m., at the Russellville Community Center located at 300 N. Harrison Street in Russellville.

 

The Putnam County Health Department has issued the following statement on contaminated waste from the East Palestine, OH, train derailment being brought into Putnam County:

 

Like many Putnam County residents, we were surprised by the decision of Norfolk Southern to send hazardous materials from the East Palestine train derailment to the Heritage Environmental Services landfill at Roachdale, Indiana.

 

As we learn more about this process and the chemicals involved, we will share that with residents.


We will continue to monitor the situation and work with our colleagues at the Environmental Protection Agency, Indiana Department of Environmental Management, and Heritage Environmental Services.


The Putnam County Health Department will perform well water testing around the Heritage Environmental site. We will make those results available once we receive them.

 

We are thankful that if these materials are brought to Indiana, they will be in the hands of the H.E.S. professionals who are regulated through the Indiana Department of Environmental Management.


 

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