Local News

Western Indiana soldier accounted for from World War II

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

Albin Pond water line project – street closures

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

 

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

 

Detour signs will be posted by Miller Pipeline.

 

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

 

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


Clinton Township Volunteer FD Chief continues to respond to concerns

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

 

Former Plainfield Clerk-Treasurer receives appointment from Governor Holcomb

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

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

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

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

Bennett will begin June 26.


Greencastle hires new principal for middle school

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Rockstar Window Tinting to hold Cruise In to benefit Isaiah 117 House

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Recovery Raw to hold Family Fun Day

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

Extra troopers will be patrolling this Memorial Day weekend

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

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

Troopers are offering the following safety tips:

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

Follow other motorists at a safe distance.

Obey all speed limits and use your turn signal.

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

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

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

Ensure everyone is properly buckled up.

Don’t drink and drive.

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

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


IRS warns of ERC scams

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Drug charges land three in Clay County Jail

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

 

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

 

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


Duke Energy upgrading more than 600 Greencastle streetlights to energy-efficient LEDs

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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


 

Father - son burglars arrested in Hendricks County

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

 

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

 

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

Greencastle Parks and Recreation implementing 5-year master plan

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Update: Names released of deceased in Putnam County fire

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

United Way of Central Indiana awards special funding to five Putnam County nonprofits

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Recipients of the special grants are: 

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

BBB warns of medical scams

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

 

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

 

How the scam works

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

How to avoid medical billing scams

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

For more information

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Putnam County Sheriff's Merit Board honors two deputies

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

Brown also spoke highly of Ducker's actions. 

 

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

 

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

 

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

Indiana State Police - Putnamville District announces K9 Jett has received donation of body armor

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Throwing stars regulated by Senate Enrolled Act 77

Indiana will lift its ban on throwing stars this summer.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Cloverdale Schools prepares to embark on more construction

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

Hoosiers urged to protect themselves against tick bites

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Construction projects continue at Greencastle Schools

As the 2022-23 school year winds down within the Greencastle Community School Corporation, construction is heating up. 

 

"It is a very exciting time to be a Greencastle Tiger Cub. We have been able to touch all five buildings with this construction project, and we are proud of that," Superintendent Jeff Gibboney told The Putnam County Post. 

 

The school corporation initially got feedback from stakeholders about various things they would like to see done with the schools, and since then, improvements have taken place at Greencastle High School, Greencastle Middle School, Ridpath Primary, Deer Meadow Primary and Tzouanakis Intermediate. 

 

The project, which comes with a price tag of about $32 million, began with work at Harbison Stadium, which included about $1.5 million in upgrades to the playing surface and facility. 

 

In addition, there will be an indoor connector, connecting Greencastle High School to McAnally Center, as well a new entrance to McAnally, an expansion of the cafeteria and kitchen space and new flooring in the science lab and redoing second floor classrooms. There have also been steps taken to make pick up and drop off in the bus area in front of McNally safer with the addition of gate arms, according to Gibboney. 

 

 

"Everyone has been great, patient and flexible at the high school. We are currently occupying the new front portion of the high school. We started putting in new floors in the science lab and are working on the first half of the second floor classrooms. Once school is out, we will work on the second half of the second floor classrooms. We are temporarily serving meals out of McNally and Chartwells has done a fantastic job with everything. We expect the new cafeteria and kitchen space to be ready by September and we plan to utilize our new entrance next fall," Gibboney said. 

 

There are also further upgrades happening to the high school's athletic complex, an additional auxiliary gym coming on board, expansion of the weight room and wrestling room, as well as larger locker rooms. 

 

The work isn't confided to just Greencastle High School, as there are plenty of things happening at Greencastle Middle School, according to Gibboney. 

Upgrades include a new office, new media center, a new nurse's station, and revamped classrooms. 

 

"We have gotten a lot of positive comments and it just feels rejuvenated there," Gibboney said. "We are working on the science classrooms. The demo work has been done and we are in the process of putting up new walls. Each will have its own lab, and we expect that to be done before students arrive in the fall. We will also have a new, illuminated sign soon and you will know where you are at." 

 

Upgrades are also taking place at Ridpath Primary, Deer Meadow Primary and Tzouanakis Intermediate, including secure entrances, sidewalk work and other upgrades, according to Gibboney. 

 

"We are making progress, chipping away and getting some of our spaces back," Gibboney said. 

 

While building projects can often hit snags when it comes to construction prices, weather and other variables, Gibboney said things have gone smooth for his district thus far. 

 

"We have been fortunate with the timing, beginning with our initial study to securing finances to now. We were able to take advantage of good interest rates and got ahead of the game. We haven't seen a lot of issues and it has been relatively smooth," Gibboney said. 

 

And, he admits the district continues to have its eye on the future and other plans to enhance the facilities and educational opportunities for Greencastle students. 

 

"It is exciting and it will be nice to devote more time to academics. Safety, secure access and 21st Century learning opportunities were the three big things we heard about from our stakeholders. We are always trying to evolve, adapt and overcome. We always have a list of needs in the background. We want to keep up with our maintenance program and be respectful of funds, but we owe it to the community to take great care of our facilities and provide opportunities for our students. It takes a collective effort," Gibboney said. 

Recovery Raw making a difference in Putnam County

As he sat in jail, facing down a 28-year sentence in 2015, Eric Rippy had an idea of creating an opportunity to assist addicts.

 

"I was being a knucklehead with no plans of changing my ways when I joined a therapeutic community drug rehab class merely for the six month timecut that came with it. While in there, one of the exercises we had to do was write our own eulogy. This was my aha moment, my heat," Rippy told The Putnam County Post. 

 

Rippy continued, stating that addicts don't change when they see the light but rather when they feel the heat and this was his moment. 

 

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

 

And, that's what he did, founding Recovery Raw in 2016 and a year later, the organization held its first meeting.

 

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

 

Rippy notes he makes it clear that he cannot drag others through recovery, but, instead, he walks with them every step of the way. 

 

"We have secured over a dozen mothers and children back in the household together where they belong, and we have over a dozen regulars with multiple years of sobriety where their journey started right in my room," he said. 

 

Rippy said in addition to helping addicts, Recovery Raw also benefits the community and county, as a whole. 

 

"It  helps residents because when we secure children back in the homes they belong in, it is less of a burden on the system and such a joy to the child and parents. Crime goes down, recidivism decreases in our jail and a new joy is filling our community," Rippy said. 

 

Rippy said he opens his doors to everyone in the community weekly.

 

"I am not a traditional recovery meeting. I'm raw. I talk about things like forgiveness, empathy, boundaries, parenting and all of the things that help individuals, whether you are in addiction, recovery or have never dealt with either. There is a hot meal provided every single week as I feel that sitting around breaking bread together is such an important gateway to how we bond and heal," Rippy said. 

 

Over the years, Recovery Raw has grown from just Rippy and four to eight attendees in 2017-18 to a five person committee, a children's program run by Jill Albers and an average of 40-plus attendees a week, along with 12-15 kids.

Recovery Raw has received a donation of land off Veterans Highway and will embark on fundraising to get its own building built. 

 

"I would like to be running multiple classes and groups once our building is built. Parenting  classes, anger management, addiction and recovery classes and we will be doing back to school events for the community. I'd like to be involved with the summer lunch sack handout for kids that may not get lunch during the summer, we want to do the Christmass giving tree every year, have blood drives and the sky is the limit. I don't know what God has in store for Raw, but each year, He takes us to a new level that is so unimaginable," Rippy said. 

 

As he continues to make an impact in the lives of others, Rippy never forgets those who impact him.

 

"None of this would be possible without the support of my wonderful wife, Brooklyn Rippy, my two daughters, Emmy, 4, and Maddy, 8 months, and my soon to be son, Bricksyn. Also, the support of this unimaginable community and these individuals showing up each week putting as much into their recovery as they did their addiction," Rippy said. 

 

And, he has a message for anyone struggling with addiction and in need of help. 

 

"My message to anyone facing addiction is that it's not 1990 anymore. It is 2023 and people love you and want you to be the best version of you. If a "stigma" is holding you back, break through and get help. You will be surprised who and how many people will be in your corner," Rippy said. 

 

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

Putnam County Sheriff's Department receives grant

For their efforts in protecting bus riders across Putnam County, the Putnam County Sheriff's Department recently earned a Stop Arm Violation Enforcement grant through the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute. 

 

The grant's objective is to utilize high visibility enforcement in areas reported through a collaborative partnership among school corporations, law enforcement and bus drivers to identify areas where stop arm violations take place. 

 

Funding for the program allows deputies to work overtime and focus on enforcement efforts around school busses and school zones, with enforcement taking place during the start and end of the school day. 

 

Through May 9, the Putnam County Sheriff's Department has issued 16 stop arm violation citations, as well as 50 citations for speeding in a school zone or around a school bus, 21 stop sign/red light violation citations, 15 other traffic violations, 8 seat belt violations, 7 texting/distracted driving citations, and one each for equipment violations, driving left of center and driving while suspended. 

 

Brazil murder suspect with not guilty plea

A man charged with a Brazil murder has entered a not guilty plea.

 

Jon Luke Benjamin McGuff, 25. has been charged with a single count of murder, Level 1 felony, in the shooting death of William Matherly in Brazil last week.

 

McGuff is being held in the Clay County Jail without bond.

Missing person with dimentia quickly found by first responders Wednesday night

An emergency situation with a lost person ended safely and quickly Wednesday.

 

Just before 10 p.m., first responders were dispatched to Putnam County Road 725 South for a report of a missing person with dementia. The person had a tracking bracelet so Putnam County CERT was requested to respond.

 

Several teams of responders with tracking abilities were deployed and the person was found in less than an hour just off the roadway. The person was checked out by medics and released to family. No injuries to subjects or responders occurred.

 

The Reelsville / Washington Township Fire Department, Putnam County EMS, Putnam County Sheriff’s Department, Cloverdale Police.

Next Level Jobs Employer Training Grant deadline approaching

More than one million jobs must be filled in Indiana over the next ten years, and WorkOne Western Indiana is seeking local employers to apply for the highly sought after Next Level Jobs Employer Training Grant.

 

The Employer Training Grant is available for eligible occupations within six priority sectors:  Advanced Manufacturing, Agriculture, Building & Construction, Health & Life Sciences, IT & Business Services and Transportation & Logistics.

 

The Employer Training Grant reimburses employers up to $5,000 per employee who is trained, hired, and retained for six months, for up to $50,000 per employer. These workers can be new or current employees. 

 

“Time is running out for businesses to utilize these funds, so we encourage them to contact us today to begin the process,” said Mike Smith, business services manager, WorkOne Western Indiana. “The application submission and reimbursement processes are very easy, and our team is here to assist employers every step of the way.” 

 

Already, WorkOne Western Indiana has assisted a number of local companies in securing a total of $600,000 in Employer Training Grants. These companies are: Ascena, B & G Foods, Brampton Brick, Harsha Behavioral Center, International Paper, JAE Services LLC, Liberty Trailer, Sony DADC, Specialty Rim, PDF Inc., Wabash Valley Custom Meats, and Westridge Healthcare. 

 

To apply for the grant, contact Mike Smith at WorkOne Western Indiana at 812-238-5616 ext. 4, or visit https://www.in.gov/dwd/business-services/etg/ and click the Hoosier High Five link. Submissions must be made before May 31, 2023 to take advantage of this opportunity.

 

WorkOne Western Indiana serves Hoosier workers and employers in Clay, Parke, Putnam, Sullivan, Vermillion and Vigo counties. To learn more, visit www.workonewest.com.

 

Greencastle Heavy Trash Day is Saturday

Do you have trash and large items you want to get rid of and you live in the city of Greencastle and are a city trash customer?

 

Well, you are in luck this Saturday, as the Greencastle Heavy Trash Day is scheduled for Saturday at Republic Services, 525 W. Columbia Street, Greencastle.

 

Anyone looking to bring trash and large waste items can do so for free from 8 a.m. until noon. Customers are expected to unload the trash from their own vehicle. 

 

Those wishing to take part are asked to bring proof of residency, a copy of a utility bill or possession of a flyer that was mailed. 

 

Items that will be accepted include:

Household furniture such as mattresses, large toys, small appliances, large appliances, microwaves and televisions

Carpet

Construction debris

Automobile tires

Putnam County man charged in death of his wife

A Putnam County man is facing a preliminary charge of murder in the death of his wife.

 

Joseph Rosa, 72, was arrested Sunday after the Putnam County Sheriff's Department responded to a home in the 3000 block of S. County Road 550 West. The call involved a dead woman at the scene.

 

Nancy Rosa was found dead inside the home.  Joseph Rosa was soon arrested following an interview.

 

An autopsy has been scheduled.

 

 

Trog's Cloud 9 still open

For Sean McCloud, the construction on Washington Street in Greencastle shifting further along has been a relief to the Trog’s Cloud 9 vape and accessory shop he co-owns with Amy Heller and Katie Nickerson.

 

For weeks, the road construction crews have positioned themselves in front of the only three entrances to the shop and at times, taking the shop’s parking lot space, too. Yet, Trog’s Cloud 9 has remained open, even if they struggled to make their customers aware they were open.

 

McCloud stated he had to tell the construction crew to leave the property a few times so his customers could enter the premises. For now, they are relieved the construction seems to be making progress and moving on. Friday, May 12, was the first day since construction started that their parking lot was accessible via at least two of the entrances.

Fishing tournament to benefit Isaiah 117

Anglers looking to make a difference in the lives of children are asked to head to Cecil Hardin (Raccoon) State Park boat ramp for the first ever bass fishing tournament to benefit Isaiah 117 House.

 

The tournament will be held May 20 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is $100 per two man team. 

 

The idea of putting on a fishing event came from Steve Bauer, who is a competitive fisherman looking to make a difference. 

 

"I thought it would be a good way to get the word out in the community what Isaiah 117 is all about. I've been fortunate to meet some great people in this sport who care and want to give back. Nobody has done a fishing tournament for Isaiah 117 and I figured why not. I've thought about getting vinyl wrap on my boat with the Isaiah 117 logo," Bauer told The Putnam County Post. 

 

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

 

"The need is huge for these kids. Once I heard the stories, there was more passion for it. We are insulated from a lot of what is going on in society. The more I learned, the more passionate I became about getting involved. I want this to become an annual event," Bauer said. 

 

The tournament is a two-man bass tournament with lake rules. Bauer said the fishing is open to large and small mouth bass. He said while the interest has been great, he truly has no idea what to expect when it comes to how many teams will show. 

 

"I am not sure what the turnout will be. I am curious to see. I hope we have around 40 boats. It is really rewarding, and we have gotten a lot of support from a lot of people, including our church, Bethel, and our pastor Nathan Couch, who fishes with me," Bauer said. 

 

For more information or to register, contact Bauer at 630-310-2329.

 

Brazil PD seeking public's help to identify woman in theft investigation

The Brazill Police Department is working a theft from Dollar General.

 

The department says this picture, featured on the department's Facebook page, is the only image they have at the moment.

 

If anyone recognizes the person pictured, please contact Officer Haring at 812-446-2211 or message the Brazil Police Department page directly.

Owen County man killed in Friday two-vehicle collision

An Owen County man was killed in a State Road 46 accident.

 

Late Friday afternoon, Indiana State Police resonded to an accident scene near Elletsville. A Subaru Legacy and a Ford E350 Super Duty van collided with extensive damage.

 

The Ford van was transporting passengers for Rural Transit and had four passengers.

 

William Kenfield, 68, of Gosport, was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

The driver of the Ford, Douglas Sims, 65, of Spencer, was taken to IU Health - Bloomington.  The four passengers were also transported for medical treatment.

 

 

 

Victim of murder investigation identified as Putnam County resident

The victim in a Brazil murder investigation has been identified as a Putnam County man.

 

John Luke Benjamin McGuff, 25, of Reelsville, was charged with murder after his arrest Friday. 

 

Brazil Police and the Clay County Sheriff’s Department responded to 310 North Leavitt Street Thursday afternoon.  They found a man who had suffered several gunshot wounds.  He has since been identified as William Matherly, 48, of Cloverdale.

 

McGuff was found the next day in Terre Haute and was arrested without incident.

 

Indiana State Police have taken the lead in the investigation.

Kristina Box to retire from Indiana Department of Health as Dr. Lindsay Weaver named new commissioner

Dr. Kristina Box has notified Governor Eric J. Holcomb that she will retire as state health commissioner of the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) effective May 31.

 

Gov. Holcomb has appointed IDOH’s chief medical officer, Dr. Lindsay Weaver, as the state health commissioner.

 

“Dr. Box and I began discussing this inevitability nearly a year ago, and I’m so grateful she agreed to stay on to shepherd the state Department of Health’s most ambitious legislative agenda yet. I respect no one more and am so pleased she’ll get to enjoy her next chapter, which is focusing on her family.  I could not have had a better partner in this role, especially in this time. She genuinely cares about the health and well-being of every single Hoosier, and because of her dedication to the betterment of our overall public health system, the state is at the forefront of transformational change that will result in a healthier Indiana,” Gov. Holcomb said.

 

"I also appreciate how she’s been working on a succession plan with Dr. Weaver, another national all-star, to ensure the successful implementation of our new public health plan. Dr. Box’s dedication to seeing the public health commission plan from ideas to action is a remarkable feat in and of itself. Her competitive refusal to lose is a key reason why our state will win for years to come,” Gov. Holcomb said.

 

Dr. Box, M.D., FACOG, was appointed state health commissioner by Gov. Holcomb in October 2017. Under her leadership, IDOH has:

 

  • Launched the Governor’s Public Health Commission, charged with taking a critical look at Indiana’s public health system and making recommendations for improvements.
  • Advocated for a modernized public health system in Indiana through a sustainable funding mechanism that will have a generational impact on Hoosiers.
  • Implemented My Healthy Baby statewide to build a network of services and support to create healthier outcomes for mothers and babies.
  • Conducted the state’s initiative in preventing lead poisoning in children six-years-old and younger through accessible screenings.
  • Led the state’s response to the novel coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19), the most significant public health event in a century, and through coordination efforts with local, state and federal agencies and health partners, countless lives were saved.

“It has been the greatest honor of my professional life to serve this administration, the Indiana Department of Health and Hoosiers across the state,” Dr. Box said. “The past five and a half years have been filled with challenges and opportunities unlike any that public health has ever encountered, and the public health workforce across the state has met those challenges with a heart and determination that have inspired me every day. I am incredibly proud of the work being done and will forever be grateful to those who continue to make improving the health and wellbeing of Hoosiers a priority.”

 

Dr. Lindsay Weaver, M.D., FACEP, serves as the chief medical officer for IDOH and has led planning efforts to implement the legislation approved by the General Assembly.

 

Dr. Weaver spearheaded the development of the statewide lab testing network and the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines and ensured that testing and vaccines were accessible to all Hoosiers.

 

“Having worked closely with Dr. Weaver over the years, I know she too is committed to continuing our important work of assuring Hoosiers have awareness and access to public health services,” Gov. Holcomb said. “As the chief medical officer, she has shown the prerequisite character, patience and leadership skills needed as she helped manage our state through the COVID-19 pandemic and, more recently, collaborate with local health partners, community leaders and legislators to begin the implementation phase of our massively upgraded public health plan. This transfer of authority will truly be a seamless transition.”  

 

Dr. Weaver is an assistant professor of clinical emergency medicine at the Indiana University School of Medicine, and she continues to practice medicine at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. She chairs the Indiana Commission for Women.

 

Dr. Weaver earned her undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Kentucky and graduated from the University of Louisville School of Medicine. She received her residency training in emergency medicine and fellowship training in hospice and palliative medicine at Indiana University School of Medicine.

 

“Taking over the position of state health commissioner from Dr. Box is an enormous responsibility, and it is an honor to follow in her footsteps,” Dr. Weaver said. “Dr. Box has provided exceptional leadership during the past six years and her commitment to public health has been an inspiration to many. I look forward to building on her legacy, implementing the recommendations of the Governor’s Public Health Commission, and continuing to work toward a healthier Indiana.

 

She will begin her role as commissioner June 1.

Reelsville man charged with murder in Brazil homicide

After searching for a Reelsville man at the center of a homicide investigation in Brazil Thursday, police announced on Friday morning they arrested their man. 

 

Indiana State Police Sgt. Matt Ames announced Friday morning police had arrested Jon Luke Benjamin McGuff, 25, of Reelsville, without incident. He is facing a preliminary charge of murder. 

 

McGuff was deemed a person of interest in a homicide that took place Thursday afternoon .

 

The Clay County Sheriff's Department, as well as Brazil Police, responded to 310 North Leavitt St., Brazil, shortly before 4 p.m. Thursday and upon arriving found a male with multiple gunshot wounds in an alley. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. 

 

According to court documents, McGuff had previously been charged for a misdemeanor theft charge and in 2020 was arrested and charged for possession of meth.

 

This remains a developing story and information will be updated as necessary.

Brazil PD warns of scam

A letter making its way around to Brazil residents asking for their support for the Brazil Police Department is a scam, according to law enforcement officials.

 

The letter, which is purported to come from Citizens Behind the Badge, states the recipient is offering a declaration of support for Brazil area police officers, strongly opposes the slashing of police department budgets and makes the citizen upset when they see anti police propaganda from the media and politicians. 

 

The letter also states the recipient is sending a donation of various dollar amounts, including their "best gift" and asks the recipient to make checks payable to Citizens Behind the Badge.

 

In a Facebook post, the Brazil Police Department warned residents of the scam. 

 

"The Brazil Police Department is NOT soliciting donations via mail. If you receive documents... please discard them and do NOT send funds! We appreciate all of the support and assistance our community provides, however, we are NOT sending donation requests at this time," the department posted. 

 

According to Charity Navigator, Citizens Behind the Badge is based in Virginia and not registered as a 501c3 nonprofit with the IRS. 

Law enforcement looking for Reelsville man as they investigate a homicide

A Reelsville man was at the center of a homicide investigation in Brazil Thursday evening. 

 

According to Indiana State Police Sgt. Matt Ames, police are looking for John Luke Benjamin McGuff, 25, of Reelsville, as a person of interest in a homicide that took place in Brazil Thursday afternoon. 

 

Police consider McGuff armed and dangerous and have asked the public to not engage with him, but rather call 911 immediately if he is seen. 

 

The Clay County Sheriff's Department, as well as Brazil Police responded to 310 North Leavitt Street, Brazil, shortly before 4 p.m. Thursday and upon arriving found a male with multiple gunshot wounds. The victim died at the scene, according to officials. As of Thursday evening, the victim's identity and age had not been disclosed. 

 

Ames is asking anyone with information or may have seen or heard anything to call the ISP Putnamville Post at 765-344-7453. 

 

This is an ongoing situation and will be updated as necessary. 

Arrest made in wreck that shut down I-70 Thursday morning

An Indianapolis semi driver has been arrested on drunk driving charges after being involved in an accident with another semi truck that shut down I-70 West in Putnam County Thursday morning. 

 

The Indiana State Police and others responded to the call, and an investigation by ISP Master Trooper Bill Bradbury revealed that Benjamin Polk, 32, Indianapolis, was driving a 2021 Freightliner westbound on I-70 when he was attempting to pass another semi driven by Jean Caden, 37, State College, Pennsylvania. While attempting to make the pass, Polk's semi made contact with the rear of Cadet's semi, sideswiping it. Polk overcorrected, causing his semi to tip, while Cadet applied his brakes. Polk's overturned semi would continue to slide down the interstate before coming to a rest directly in front of Cadet's stopped semi. Polk was able to climb out of the cab of his semi and attempted to flee the accident scene. Officers observed Polk running away and were able to apprehend him until troopers arrived. 

 

Bradberry spoke with Polk and detected signs of intoxication. Polk refused to submit to field sobriety tests and a certified chemical test, but did complain of pain, causing him to be transported to Putnam County Hospital. Once cleared, he was transported to the Putnam County Jail, where he was booked on charges of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated, a Class A misdemeanor, and Operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated endangering a person, a Class C misdemeanor. 

Retta Jeans Cafe enjoying great start

A combination of her love for her mother and for baking and cooking have been the key ingredients for a restaurant endeavor for Lori McIntyre, owner of Retta Jeans Cafe, formerly Cooks Corner. 

 

The restaurant, which had its grand opening earlier this month, is located at 3998 N. Bowling Green Rd., Poland, and is off to a great start, according to McIntyre. 

 

"The grand opening went really well. We had a great turnout. I wasn't really sure what to expect, and we had a lot of people," McIntyre told The Putnam County Post. 

 

With the grand opening behind her, McIntyre is looking forward to the next couple months of business, as customers will be able to dine on tenderloins, burgers, salads, wraps, chicken tenders and chicken dishes, and much more. In addition, there will be daily specials. One staple from the grand opening weekend that will continue is the BBQ from Rob's Rumps each weekend. 

 

"I am excited to see how the next few months go," McIntyre said. 

 

And, along the way, she will continue honoring her mother's legacy, as the restaurant is named for her. 

 

"I always wanted to own a restaurant and I talked about it a lot with my mom. We lost her a few years ago. I looked at buying it once before and the time just wasted right, but am glad that we were able to open it and buy it. And, it is named after my mom. Her name was Retta Jean, and she is the reason I know how to cook. She cooked and baked a lot and did wedding cakes. She was a good cook and baker and played a big part in me learning how to cook," McIntyre admitted. 

 

McIntyre said the restaurant is a true labor of love in many ways. 

 

"It allows me to honor my mom and I love taking care of people. Cooking takes care of that, and I love baking. The community has been amazing and supportive and I am thankful for them. It is a lot of hard work running a restaurant, but it is rewarding," McIntyre said. 

Baird's bill supporting responsible Hoosier loggers signed into law

State Rep. Beau Baird's (R-Greencastle) bill to cut burdensome red tape for Hoosier loggers when it comes to certain forestry operations is now law.

 

Baird authored House Enrolled Act 1601 after hearing from numerous companies and landowners that the forestry permitting process for even smaller operations was bogged down in bureaucratic red tape. Currently, forestry operations like logging require permits from both the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and the Indiana Department of Environmental Management, which Baird said can cause significant delays.

 

Under the new law, certified forestry operators won’t have to obtain a permit from either agency provided that they adhere to the DNR's Indiana Logging and Forestry Best Management Practices Field Guide, and the area of the forestry operation is confined to a waterway with a watershed no larger than 10 square miles.

 

"Waiting months or up to a year in some cases to get a permit can severely hinder the forestry operations that contribute to one of our state's largest industries," Baird said. "This new law will cut red tape for Hoosier loggers who are acting in good faith to responsibly manage our forested areas."

 

The new law is applicable to forestry operators that are already certified by the state for following best practices. To ensure they remain in compliance, the DNR may still audit them when they're conducting operations on private classified state forests and state forests.

 

According to the DNR, just over 20% of Indiana is classified as forestland and the manufacturing of forest products is the state's sixth-largest industry, contributing $3 billion annually to the economy. Indiana ranks ninth in the nation for total lumber production.

 

HEA 1601, which received bipartisan support, will go into effect on July 1. 

Getting in and out of the Greencastle City Hall remains a challenge during street construction

Restrictions to accessing the Greencastle City Hall continue with street construction near and around the site.

 

The drive up window and drop box for utility payments will be closed until further notice. The drop box will have limited walk up access.

 

Access to the city hall parking lot will be limited from time to time for the next several weeks. Please observe any detour or road closed signs.

 

If you need access to city hall, you're asked to park on Franklin Street, east of Locust Street. Or, parking is available on Washington Street, west of Locust Street.

 

Utility bills can be paid by mail or at: https://www.municipalonlinepayments.com/greencastlein

Also, business may be conducted with city hall offices by phone or by electronic meetings. In some cases, off-site meetings can be arranged.

Fallen tree damages Parke County bridge

A Parke County covered bridge was damaged and the intersection closed by a fallen tree.

 

Parke County Deputies, Lyford Fire Department, Parke County Highway and Parke County REMC responded to a tree that fell in Coxville.

 

The tree landed on the Roseville Covered Bridge and power lines.

 

C.R. 325 W. will be closed at this intersection until further notice.

 

The following Roseville Covered Bridge information and history below is found at www.coveredbridges.com . 

 

Reference Code: #18, 14-61-09, 12-61-09, cw, 14-14N—8W
Size: 263 ft long +9’ +9’, 12’ 8
Truss: Burr Arch 2 span
Foundation: Cut sandstone
Original Cost: $10,000 or $5,725 + $7.00/cubic yard of concrete

Repair/Restoration History: Third bridge at this location, second bridge destroyed by arson fire April 9, 1910.

Bridge History: After the 1865 Roseville Bridge was burned in 1910, the Parke County Commissioners advertised to replace it with a concrete bridge. Apparently, the cost of a concrete bridge was prohibitive since it was replaced by the present covered bridge. (This seems like a good choice since the concrete bridge replacing the downstream Armiesburg Covered Bridge in 1917 collapsed in 1930 while the Roseville Bridge still stands.)

Jefferson P. Van Fossen received the contract to build the replacement bridge. The brothers J. P. and J. L. Van Fossen were associated with the county road department and were involved in constructing four or more Parke County covered bridges and foundations. J. P. Van Fossen was contracted the same year to build the Jessup Bridge. Witnesses from the construction site claim the on-site foreman was Joseph J. Daniels. J.J. Daniels built the 1865 covered bridge. He was 84 at the time the 1910 bridge was built.

A photograph of the nearly finished bridge shows the portal lettering. It credits J.P. Van Fossen Contractor, J. Brooks Builder. J.J. Daniels does not appear in the photo. The onsite witnesses didn’t remember Mr. Brooks, and later portal lettering photographs show J.J. Daniels listed as builder. The same photograph shows the sides of the bridge painted white rather than the now familiar barn red. The portal opening is the familiar "Daniels Arch".

Through the years photographs and postcards show the bridge painted red and brown. The portals have been red, brown, white, and knocked away. The transition from the J.J. Daniels arch to the present portal may have been assisted by the engraved sign boards being mounted too low, leading to the flattened arch on the latest repairs.

Another picture shows the first stone for the 1910 bridge loaded on a horse drawn wagon. Most covered bridges built after 1900 had poured concrete abutments. The new abutments were needed for a new bridge of a different length. Stone abutments are consistent with J.J. Daniels construction while the Van Fossens used poured concrete on their other bridges.

Doc Wheat practiced near the west bridge portal. He was a herbalist with a reputation of producing cures still unavailable to modern medicine. One of his eccentricities was his distrust of banks. After his death, his yard and house was riddled by treasure hunters searching for his Mason jars full of money.

By the 1950’s there were only a few homes left in Coxville and only one business, the Coxville Tavern. The tavern occupied a small log room with a stone fireplace and resembled a scene from the Snuffy Smith Comic Strip. Then Tex Terry retired from his acting career as a western villain. (He appeared in numerous movies with Roy Rogers and others.) His first retirement venture back home in Indiana was development of Mansfield.

City of Greencastle and DePauw University awarded Lilly Endowment Planning Grant

The City of Greencastle and DePauw University have been awarded a $250,000 College and Community Collaboration (CCC) Initiative planning grant from the Lilly Endowment.

 

This grant provides the city and university with resources to create a plan with other key stakeholders that develops and revitalizes the corridor between DePauw University and downtown Greencastle.

City and university leaders believe that this process can help address the shared need between the university and city to attract and retain a talented and committed workforce. Needs to be addressed may include housing, and enhancing the quality of educational, recreational and aesthetic offerings in Greencastle.

 

City leaders and university leaders are united in their enthusiasm for the grant and the College and Community Collaboration Initiative more broadly.

 

“The city is looking forward to our partnership with DePauw to grow on the foundation of the Stellar Communities work with the support of the Lilly Endowment,” Greencastle Mayor Bill Dory said.

 

Dionne Jackson, vice president for institutional equity at DePauw, added, “As a relatively new member of the DePauw and Greencastle communities, I am excited about the opportunity to serve on the leadership team of this grant. I look forward to the opportunities to connect with and learn from our community regarding needs the grant might address.”

 

Greencastle and DePauw partnered in 2011, when the city received a $15 million Stellar Communities grant from the State of Indiana’s Office of Community and Rural Affairs. The grant, with support from DePauw, allowed Greencastle to revitalize the courthouse square and downtown, as well as support new business growth and community initiatives. Looking forward, the CCC planning grant can help the city and university pursue elements, such as housing and corridor development adjacent to the work of the Stellar Communities program.

 

Andrea Young, vice president for finance and administration, noted, “DePauw has a long history of working with the Greencastle and Putnam County communities to provide amenities, such as the DePauw Nature Park, Starbucks and the Ashley Square Cinema. We are excited to continue that collaboration as we work with community and campus stakeholders to find solutions to problems that challenge all of us, such as a lack of available housing.”

Owen County Disaster Recovery Center available May 15-17

The state of Indiana and FEMA will open a Disaster Recovery Center in Owen County from May 15-17 to help survivors of the March 31–April 1 storms and tornadoes continue their recovery.

 

Recovery specialists from FEMA, the state and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be at the center to help with FEMA applications, answer questions and provide referrals to resources.

 

The center will be located at:

Spencer Owen Administration Building
205 East Hillside Ave.
Spencer, IN 47460

 

Center hours on 15-16 will be 8 a.m-6 p.m. Hours for May 17 will be 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

 

Additional recovery centers are open or will be opening soon in other impacted areas. Individuals and businesses in Allen, Benton, Clinton, Grant, Howard, Johnson, Lake, Monroe, Morgan, Owen, Sullivan, and White counties can visit any open center for help.

 

To find a nearby center, visit fema.gov/drc.

 

To apply for FEMA assistance without visiting a center, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or use the FEMA App. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA your number for that service.

 

The deadline to apply for federal assistance is June 14, 2023

Putnam County Tox-Away Day slated for Saturday

If you want to get rid of any toxic/hazardous materials and wastes and you live in Putnam County, the West Central Solid Waste District has an event you will not want to miss. 

 

The Putnam County Tox-Away Day will be held Saturday, May 13, at Area 30 Career Center, 1 North Calbert Way, Greencastle,  from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m.

 

The event will be held regardless of what the weather is doing. 

 

Last year, residents in both Putnam and Parke counties disposed of 71 tons of toxic/hazardous materials and waste.

 

Those taking part in the event are reminded to stay inside their vehicles at all times and small or mixed items should be visible in a box or container to allow for safe handling. 

 

It is also an opportunity to get rid of old items that cannot go into the trash or a landfill, such as computers, cell phones and gaming consoles. They can be disposed of Saturday for free, with the exception of televisions, which have a $20 fee.  

 

In addition, residents can dispose of old tires at the event, as car and light truck tires are accepted free for the first six tires and then at $2 per additional tire up to 12.

 

Items that will be accepted include: 

• Appliances (CFC and non-CFC)

• Electronics ($20/each for TVs, any size)

• Tires 

• Automotive additives such as fuel, oil, or antifreeze

• Oil-based paint, stain, varnish, paint thinner

• Mercury thermometers, fluorescent tubes/CFLs

• Pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, poisons

• Acids, bases, solvents, chemicals/cleaners

• Medications (non-controlled) and sharps

Anyone with any questions, is asked to call WCSWD at 653-2150.

 

New law mandates meetings to be streamed or recorded

With a lot of talk about transparency surrounding government and residents using their own phones to livestream government meetings, Indiana's General Assembly and Gov. Eric Holcomb have acted for constituents. 

 

Holcomb signed HEA 1167 earlier this month, and while the new law is a requirement for government meetings to be live streamed or recorded there is a drawback. 

 

While signed into law, it will not go into effect until July 1, 2025. 

 

Furthermore, the new legislation applies strictly to school boards, state agencies, township, county, city and town government bodies, as well as any governing body that conducts regular meetings in the same meeting room. 

 

The legislation, which was authored by Republican Rep. Ben Smaltz, forces those conducting the meeting to live stream the meeting and archive a copy of the meeting. 

 

Should there not be internet for livestreaming, the agency conducting the meeting must record it and make it available for constituents for at least 90 days. The public will be able to access, copy and download the meeting for free, according to the law.

 

Should a government body refuse or not adhere to the law, it could be subject to an Open Door Law complaint with the Indiana Public Access Counselor. 

WorkOne Western Indiana seeking local employers to apply for training grants before May 31

More than one million jobs must be filled in Indiana over the next ten years, and WorkOne Western Indiana is seeking local employers to apply for the highly sought after Next Level Jobs Employer Training Grant.

 

The Employer Training Grant is available for eligible occupations within six priority sectors:  Advanced Manufacturing, Agriculture, Building & Construction, Health & Life Sciences, IT & Business Services and Transportation & Logistics.

 

The Employer Training Grant reimburses employers up to $5,000 per employee who is trained, hired, and retained for six months, for up to $50,000 per employer. These workers can be new or current employees. 

 

“Time is running out for businesses to utilize these funds, so we encourage them to contact us today to begin the process,” said Mike Smith, business services manager, WorkOne Western Indiana. “The application submission and reimbursement processes are very easy, and our team is here to assist employers every step of the way.” 

 

Already, WorkOne Western Indiana has assisted a number of local companies in securing a total of $600,000 in Employer Training Grants. These companies are: Ascena, B & G Foods, Brampton Brick, Harsha Behavioral Center, International Paper, JAE Services LLC, Liberty Trailer, Sony DADC, Specialty Rim, PDF Inc., Wabash Valley Custom Meats, and Westridge Healthcare. 

 

To apply for the grant, contact Mike Smith at WorkOne Western Indiana at 812-238-5616 ext. 4, or visit https://www.in.gov/dwd/business-services/etg/ and click the Hoosier High Five link. Submissions must be made before May 31, 2023 to take advantage of this opportunity.

 

WorkOne Western Indiana serves Hoosier workers and employers in Clay, Parke, Putnam, Sullivan, Vermillion and Vigo counties. To learn more, visit www.workonewest.com.

Greencastle's McPherson ready to be district's assistant superintendent

As the days begin to wind down in the 2022-23 school year for Greencastle Middle School students, the same can be said of Becky McPherson's time as principal at the school.

 

McPherson was hired last June, replacing Scott Weltz, who became assistant superintendent at Community Schools of Frankfort, has been named the assistant superintendent for Greencastle Schools. She has also served as principal of Monrovia Middle School. 

 

"I am very excited about transitioning to my new district-level role. I have a passion for curriculum and assessment and the role of assistant superintendent allows me to focus on that, while also continuing my work with administrators and teachers," McPherson told The Putnam County Post. 

 

As she prepares to leave the day-to-day environment inside Greencastle High School as principal, McPherson said what stands out to her is how welcoming everyone was to her. 

 

"What stands out to me is how welcome everyone has made me feel. The teachers, students, families and my fellow administrators have all been very kind and supportive. We have worked very hard this year to create exciting, fun and academically rigorous opportunities for our students, and they have risen to the challenge. Building a positive school community was very important to me during this initial year, and by adding pep sessions, surprise "Rock Your School" days and other fun events, we have been able to come together as a school community in a variety of fun and engaging ways," McPherson said. 

 

And, she admits she will miss working with the students and teachers daily. 

 

"I have loved being a principal and interacting with the students in such a positive way has been a driving force for me in my career. I know that with this new role I will be able to positively impact all of our students, not just one building, which makes me excited about the future," McPherson admitted. 

 

The veteran educator is wasting little time preparing for the upcoming school year and her new role, as she says one of her main focuses for the summer and upcoming school year is to support teachers and administrators through the implementation of Greencastle's new math curriculum in the middle school and new reading curriculum in the primary and intermediate buildings. 

 

"I have been collaborating with the principals to schedule training for our teachers and also connecting them to schools who have used these curriculums as well. The Batesville school system has been very gracious with us and has virtually connected their teachers with several of our teachers so that we can ask questions and get advice on the best way to implement so that it is most effective for our students. I am impressed and proud of the work and care that our teachers have already put forth in order to make this reading adoption a success," McPherson said. 

Crown Equipment scene of weekend fire

A Greencastle business was the scene of an early morning fire Sunday as firefighters from Greencastle and Cloverdale put the fire out in a little over an hour. 

 

At 2:27 a.m. on May 7, Greencastle's C-shift was called to Crown Equipment, an industrial equipment supplier, for a report of a fire. By 3 a.m., the fire was under control, as an electrical box near the ceiling was on fire. 

 

A ladder truck was used to access the electrical box and a dry chemical extinguisher was used to put the fire out. Gas and power to the electrical box was secured, and an exhaust system in the building was used to remove smoke from the building. 

 

According to the run report, the box on fire was an industrial humidifier that had an electrical issue, causing the fire. 

 

Both Greencastle and Cloverdale firefighters were released from the scene at 3:58 a.m. 

 

Hendricks County man one of two accidentally shot while turkey hunting

Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating a hunting accident that occurred on Saturday morning at Morgan-Monroe State Forest.

 

Shawn Hooper, 54, of Fishers was turkey hunting when he misidentified two other hunters. Jeffery McClintic, 31, of Indianapolis, and Scott Poynter, 34, of Danville, received non-life threatening injuries when Hooper fired in their direction.

The incident is currently under investigation.

 

Indiana Conservation Officers remind hunters to always identify the target and what is in front and behind it before shooting while in the field.

Clinton Township Volunteer Fire Department addresses concerns

Weeks after a house fire resulted in a fatality at 1047 Van Bibber Lake Estate, the Clinton Township Volunteer Fire Department Chief Tony Camp is responding to concerns over response times with his department. 

 

The concerns, which were the focus of a meeting with the Walnut Creek Fire District recently, have originated from neighbors of the lady who lost her life in the April fire, including a former member of the Clinton Township Volunteer Fire Department prior to the department being shut down in 2022, as well as family members. 

 

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

 

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

 

Since becoming chief, Camp said there has been only one complaint filed against his department and that was addressed immediately. 

 

However, he says this tragic incident highlights several issues his fire department faces, as they are a volunteer department with seven firefighters. 

 

"This highlights the need for more volunteers everywhere, not just here. There isn't a volunteer fire department in America that doesn't need more firefighters. There are things that would help, but it is sad it takes a tragic event to pump them up," Camp said. 

 

In addition, he says the geographic location of the Clinton Township Volunteer Fire Department can make it tough at times. 

 

"The fire department isn't geographically accessible to anything in the township. We have some people who are here for only the summer and weekends. Others live here but are busy, and some live 15 minutes away. There have been times I have been away and have to come back by the fire department to grab the squad and head out and that can delay response time a few minutes," Camp said. 

 

Camp said volunteer fire departments can have insurance cover their personal vehicles and many have basic first aid supplies in their trucks. 

 

"But, the minute I put an O2 bottle on, insurance no longer covers it, so I have to go from where I am at to the department and get the squad. I am on 99 percent of the runs we get called for. I've had four calls out near Clinton Falls where I've had to come back and get squad," Camp said. 

 

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

 

With that said, he admits he is looking to add upwards of 10 more firefighters and recently announced he is prepared to implement a new pay scale in hopes of adding applicants. 

 

Camp said the system pays out every six months because that is when his department gets its contract money. 

 

"You will be required to have 48 hours on station, which you sign up for the days you want to be on station and the hours need to be spread out over the six months. The person must attend four trainings and two meetings within the six months and they will receive $300. Any event like a fundraiser the person participates in each month is an extra $15," Camp said. 

 

He said since his announcement, he has one person call and that person lived an hour away. 

 

"We don't have the run volume or the taxbase to support one paid firefighter. A couple volunteer fire departments have a paid person Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and that is something we are looking at. I am hoping to pull people who want to do this. I am more than happy to take applications, but you have to be able bodied to do this. We can't stop fighting a fire or helping someone with a medical emergency because you need tended to. Right now, the guys I have on say they aren't here for the money, but here to help, and that is great, but we need more volunteers. My goal is to try and build this department up and better itself every day," Camp said. 

It's the first of the First Fridays tonight in Greencastle

The weather is expected to be absolutely gorgeous for the First Friday event in downtown Greencastle.

 

The festivities will begin at 6 p.m. and last until 11 p.m. and feature something for everyone, according to event organizers. 

 

"This First Friday, our event sponsor is Prime Real Estate. There will be an inflatable slide, face painting, balloons, a race car, dozens of vendors, lots of food and drinks, plus two live bands. The Big Fun Band will be on the Courthouse stage and The Danocasters will be on the Moore's Stage," said Russell Harvey, executive director of Main Street Greencastle. 

 

Harvey hopes to see new faces and familiar faces Friday for the first event, urging everyone to come out. 

 

"Folks should come out and experience community. It's a great opportunity to see friends and neighbors, as well as meet some of the people that have various resources and businesses in the community. It's family friendly fun.  Plus, the live music is always great," Harvey said. 

Best in class: DePauw becomes first private Indiana school to earn 'green light' free speech rating

After revising six policies, DePauw University has earned the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression’s “green light” rating, the highest possible rating for policies that regulate student speech on campus.

 

DePauw’s new rating represents one of the most successful turnarounds in the history of FIRE’s “Spotlight” rating system. Only a few years ago, DePauw was a “red light” school and came in last in FIRE’s 2021 College Free Speech Rankings.

 

 

“For more than a year and half, FIRE and DePauw have worked together to revamp their policies to ensure students can freely engage in expression on campus and add their voices to the conversation,” said FIRE Senior Program Officer Mary Griffin. “DePauw should be commended for its commitment to free and open inquiry. We hope more colleges will follow its lead.” 

 

An overall green light rating is reserved for schools with no policies that seriously restrict or chill speech, and it places DePauw in an elite class. FIRE’s most recent “Spotlight on Speech Codes” report found that of the 486 schools included in the Spotlight database, only 60, or 12%, earned a green light rating. The new rating also marks DePauw as one of the best schools in the state of Indiana for free speech. 

 

DePauw earned its new rating after working with FIRE to update its policies on harassment, bias, campus posting, prohibited student conduct, and electronic communications, removing vague or unclear language that left students open to punishment over expression that would be protected by the private school’s strong free speech promises.

 

In 2022, DePauw also adopted the “Statement of DePauw University Values on Freedom of Expression,” which articulates that “all members of the DePauw community have a duty to support free expression at the university, to refrain from actions that reduce intellectual exchange and to guarantee the rights of others to question, defend, and express a wide variety of beliefs and ideas.” The statement is modeled on the “Chicago Statement,” the gold standard for institutional policy statements on freedom of expression that has been endorsed by nearly 100 institutions nationwide.

 

“At a time when our neighborhoods, social circles, and information channels are increasingly segregated, the pursuit of conversation across differences has never been more important,” said DePauw University President Lori S. White. “College campuses, particularly those that are residential, are one of the few places where people are invited to live, learn, work, and develop community together across a range of differences. Liberal arts colleges are communities actively grappling with the interconnectedness of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging and free expression.

 

“By leaning into and openly discussing through teaching, scholarship and campus conversation the complexities of our histories, identities, and ideologies we fortify our mission to educate leaders the world needs. We are appreciative of FIRE's recognition of DePauw’s continued work on free expression.”

 

 

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to defending and sustaining the individual rights of all Americans to free speech and free thought—the most essential qualities of liberty. FIRE recognizes that colleges and universities play a vital role in preserving free thought within a free society. To this end, we place a special emphasis on defending the individual rights of students and faculty members on our nation’s campuses, including freedom of speech, freedom of association, due process, legal equality, religious liberty, and sanctity of conscience.

City of Greencastle partners with WC-ISBDC to hire small business advisor

The West Central Indiana Small Business Development Center (WC-ISBDC) understands the importance of rural based businesses.  Through the Community Navigator Pilot Program the office has been able to expand business advising services to the rural community by hiring a rural based advisor, Mr. Dave Bittner.  Over the last year we have seen a huge impact on needs being met by rural businesses with the increased focus.

 

We are excited to announce that with new funding from the city of Greencastle, we will be able to provide even more targeted outreach to the entrepreneurs and businesses in Greencastle. “The Greencastle City Council provided funding for the partnership with the WC-ISBDC through the adoption of the Investment Plan for the funds granted to the city under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021,” noted Mayor Bill Dory.   “Greencastle has had a long relationship with the WC-ISBDC, we are pleased that we can provide increased support of their efforts to aid our local small business community.”

 

The WC-ISBDC has recently hired Ronald Prince as a full-time business advisor. Mr. Prince will be serving the city of Greencastle. In this role he will be involved in the full suite of the ISBDC’s efforts of advising, training, and finding the tools or resources to help businesses succeed.

 

Ron has served for a decade as a member of a real estate investment entity that specializes in agricultural production land acquisitions & management, recreation land leases and residential development.

 

Prince received a bachelor’s of science degree, in history, from Appalachian State University and pursued a career as a college & professional football coach for nearly thirty years. Including time with his beloved Indianapolis Colts.

 

Prince is an avid outdoorsman, in his spare time you will find him enjoying hunting, fishing and homesteading chores with his family.

 

“The team at the WC-ISBDC is a powerhouse of talent. We have advisors that have backgrounds in engineering, merger & acquisitions, social entrepreneurship, real estate, insurance and who have owned businesses from restaurants, to main street retail to SAS tech companies and even won shark tank and cupcake wars! Clients of the WC-ISBDC have access to all advisors based on their need. Having Mr. Prince based in Greencastle and Mr. Bittner in all of Putnam county only increases the awareness of the overall program and serves as a direct connection into all WC-ISBDC offerings.” Stated Courtney Richey-Chipol the Regional Director for the WC-ISBDC.

 

Being a client of the WC-ISBDC is at absolutely no cost to entrepreneurs and business owners thanks to our funders. To become a client simply visit www.isbdc.org and click “Let’s Work Together”.

 

For more information you can contact the center directly at 812-237-7676 or at westcentral@isbdc.org.

Disaster Recovery Center open in Owen County

The state of Indiana and FEMA will open a Disaster Recovery Center in Owen County from May 4-6 and May 15-17 to help survivors of the March 31–April 1 storms and tornadoes continue their recovery.

 

Recovery specialists from FEMA, the state and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be at the center to help with FEMA applications, answer questions and provide referrals to resources.

 

The center will be located at:

Spencer Owen Administration Building
205 East Hillside Ave.
Spencer, IN 47460

 

Center hours on May 4-5 and 15-16 will be 8 a.m-6 p.m. Hours for May 6 and 17 will be 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

 

Additional recovery centers are open or will be opening soon in other impacted areas. Individuals and businesses in Allen, Benton, Clinton, Grant, Howard, Johnson, Lake, Monroe, Morgan, Owen, Sullivan, and White counties can visit any open center for help.

 

To find a nearby center, visit fema.gov/drc.

 

To apply for FEMA assistance without visiting a center, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or use the FEMA App. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA your number for that service.

 

The deadline to apply for federal assistance is June 14, 2023.

Cloverdale Elementary to expand pre-K options

With an emphasis on preparing its youngest learners, Cloverdale Elementary School will be offering expanded pre-kindergarten options for its families beginning in the 2023-24 school year. 

 

According to principal Mary Jane Elkins, the idea of expanding Clover Elementary's Pre-Kindergarten program and the launch of a Pre-Clover program originated from discussions with school leaders in January. 

 

"We looked at how we can prepare our 3 and 4 year old students and their families. We decided it was time to do programming, did a survey of K-12 parents and we want to be involved in their lives and prepare them for school and their lives," Elkins told The Putnam County Post.

 

The Pre-Clover Program is open to 3 year old students and is available in either the a.m, or p.m. two to three days a week. Students must be 3 by Aug. 1 to enroll in the program. 

 

The Pre-K program is five a days a week from 8 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. and students must be 4 years old by Aug. 1. 

 

"We launched our kindergarten round-up in March and had approximately 40 families interested in the 3 and 4 year old programs. We have one pre-K class and the difference between that and our Pre-Clover program is the Pre-K will run during the school day. We have a good program in place," Elkins said.

 

Elkins said Cloverdale Elementary understands a child's social, emotional, physical and cognitive development is best nurtured amongst adults and peers in an environment that extends curiosity and enriches learning. In addition, it is her hope that students enjoy coming to preschool.

 

"The necessity of the program is focused on young children. Learning words and numbers, how to play well together, exploring their environment, all of this provides opportunities for students to be more prepared for kindergarten. We enjoy providing this service for our families," Elkins said. 

 

The Pre-K and Pre-Clover curriculums will follow the Indiana Early Learning Foundations, with designed learning activities and a focus on basic concepts and skills.

 

Families can register now through the middle of June and then registration will move online. For more information or to register, call Cloverdale Elementary School at 765-795-4339 or visit https://ces.cloverdale.k12.in.us/news/what_s_new/registration_is_still_o_p_e_n_

 

 

 

Tri-County Bank & Trust Company honored as Five Star Member of the Indiana Bankers Association.

Tri-County Bank & Trust Company has been honored as a Five Star Member of the Indiana Bankers Association.

 

The award was presented on April 6, 2023, in recognition of Tri-County Bank's Association involvement throughout 2022.

 

The Five Star Member designation recognizes those IBA-member banks which demonstrate outstanding commitment to the Association in five areas: political awareness, issues advocacy, life-long learning, IBA volunteerism, and Preferred Service Provider utilization.

 

"We very much appreciate the dedication of Tri-County Bank as a Five Star Member bank" said Amber Van Til, IBA president and CEO. "Our Association is strong, thanks to our supportive members."

 

The Indiana Bankers Association supports Indiana banking through issues analysis, professional education, and products and services that enhance member banks' ability to serve their communities.

 

Tri-County Bank & Trust Company is a Community Bank with offices in Montgomery and Putnam Counties.

Baird leads effort to address TSP shortages and roadblocks

Today, Conservation, Research, and Biotechnology Subcommittee Chairman, Jim Baird (IN-04), Ranking Member Abigail Spanberger (VA-07), and Senators Mike Braun (R-IN), Roger Marshall (R-KS), and Michael Bennet (D- CO) introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Increased TSP Access Act of 2023 to address Technical Service Provider (TSP) shortages.

 

“In order for our farmers and ranchers to continue their vital conservation efforts, we need to make sure they have access to the best information and expertise available,” said Congressman Baird. “By introducing legislation that directs USDA to establish a streamlined certification process for Technical Service Provider (TSPs) who hold appropriate specialty certifications, we can ensure rapid response times for our producers and address TSP shortages just as the 2018 Farm Bill intended.”

 

“As the only Virginian on the House Agriculture Committee, I’ve had many conversations with our Commonwealth’s crop and livestock producers about challenges caused by staffing shortages and burdensome requirements at NRCS. This massive workforce issue is having real effects on the ground — and it’s slowing down the ability of Virginia producers to make smart management plans for their land,” said Congresswoman Spanberger. “That’s why I’m proud to help lead the bipartisan Increased TSP Access Act. By cutting red tape, streamlining some of USDA’s bureaucracy, and prioritizing timely certification for these jobs, we can help more producers take advantage of voluntary conservation programs.”

 

“Our nation’s farmers and ranchers play a critical role in conservation, so it is important that they have access to Technical Service Providers (TSPs) who help fill the gaps in technical assistance when it comes to implementing conservation programs,” said Senator Braun.  “I’m proud to lead this legislation that will streamline the TSP certification process to support our producers and improve conservation outcomes.”

 

“Increasing the amount of Technical Service Providers (TSP) for the Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS) was a key part of legislation that I introduced last fall to help the domestic fertilizer industry,” said Senator Marshall.  “I’m happy to partner with Senators Braun and Bennet on this commonsense approach that moves us towards our goal by cutting red tape that’s holding back farm participation in NRCS programs. Certified Crop Advisors and other similar professionals are already equipped with the skills necessary to help farmers and ranchers reach a variety of conservation goals. Establishing an expedited pathway to deliver conservation goals, especially as it relates to nutrient management plans, is the free-market answer to increasing agriculture-friendly conservation efforts.”

 

“As Colorado faces a future that’s going to be a lot hotter and a lot drier, we need to make it easier to access USDA conservation programs. But crippling red tape and understaffing at the NRCS make these programs too rigid and time-consuming for many Coloradans to apply to,” said Senator Bennet. “The future of rural America depends on whether the next generation decides to continue their family farms and ranches – and to protect that future, the Increased TSP Access Act makes assistance more accessible and helps conservation programs live up to their potential.”  

 

TSPs are vitally important as they help farmers and producers access USDA conservation programs through granular, one-on-one assistance. For example, TSPs can help producers to develop grazing management plans, nutrient management plans, and sustainable forestry plans. They can also help producers increase their operation’s irrigation efficiency.

 

In January 2023, NRCS Chief Terry Cosby projected that the agency will need to hire between 3,000 and 4,000 employees over the next two years to implement USDA conservation programs and provide necessary technical assistance. Further, just last year, USDA was given the authority to hire 1,500 new employees and only retained 500.

 

The 2018 Farm Bill did include language that would allow USDA to approve non-Federal entities to certify TSPs. Unfortunately, the language did not include clear deadlines for USDA to set up its non-Federal certification process and also lacked guardrails to ensure that Congressional intent was implemented in a timely manner. As a result, this language was never fully implemented by USDA.

 

The Increased TSP Access Act would address the TSP shortage by expanding on the framework first envisioned in the 2018 Farm Bill.

  • Non-Federal Certifying Entities: The bill directs USDA to establish a process to approve non-Federal certifying entities within 180 days of enactment. The bill ensures that USDA’s process will allow agricultural retailers, conservation organizations, cooperatives, professional societies, and service providers to become certifying entities. It also puts clear deadlines on USDA to ensure responsiveness in administering the program.
  • Streamlined Certification: The bill directs USDA to establish a streamlined certification process for TSPs who hold appropriate specialty certifications (including certified crop advisors) within 180 days of enactment. This guarantees that applicants with other certifications aren’t burdened with duplicative training, but are still trained in the competencies needed to serve as a TSP.
  • Parity in Compensation: The bill ensures that TSPs—who are often paid using conservation program dollars—are paid the fair market rate for their services.

Greencastle-based nonprofit takes home top prize at United Way of Central Indiana pitch contest

Family Support Services of West Central Indiana won the top prize – a $50,000 award – Thursday, April 27 at a United Way of Central Indiana pitch contest held in Indianapolis. 

During Propel, the nonprofit was one of seven human services organizations to pitch ideas on how to reduce barriers for those from under-resourced communities or asset-limited backgrounds. 

The event’s sponsor, media company Audiochuck, selected Family Support Services as the winner of the $50,000 prize. The organization addresses domestic violence in rural Indiana and will use the funds toward its supportive housing program – with the goal of ending homelessness.

In all, more than $100,000 was awarded to nonprofits at Thursday's event. 

A $35,000 award, presented by United Way and selected by a panel of judges, went to Ivy Tech Foundation. Funds will support Ivy Tech’s ELEVATE program, which assists those who have been involved in the criminal justice system and aims to reduce recidivism through workforce development. 

Members of the public voted for the Heritage Group People’s Choice Award, giving $18,271 to Project WILL, Inc. The organization works with young adults ages 17 to 35 with behavioral health challenges and helps them through life transitions. It aims to address the disability employment gap and racial employment disparities. 

The four other organizations that pitched their ideas live Thursday received $2,000: 

 

Circle City Village

Fathers and Families Center

Fight for Life Foundation 

Indianapolis Legal Aid Society

 

About 130 people attended Propel, held at High Alpha in Indianapolis. The event also was streamed live on United Way’s YouTube channel. 

In February, nonprofits were invited to submit letters of interest and a five-minute video about their project or idea. A panel of community members and United Way staff reviewed 35 submissions and selected four finalists. Members of the public voted to select the remaining competitors. 

This is United Way’s second Propel event. The first was held in June, in front of a live audience of about 100 people at The AMP at 16 Tech in Indianapolis. 

Judging the $35,000 award presented by United Way on Thursday were: 

Andre Franklin, Crowe (United Way board member) 

Nashelle Frazier, Fifth Third Bank

Joanne Jones, Heritage Group

Roger Shuman, TechPoint

Keith Veal, Buckingham Foundation 

7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals rejected a constitutional challenge to Indiana's Sex Offender Registration Act

Attorney General Todd Rokita and his staff won a federal appeals case this week that will help protect Hoosiers from dangerous predators who have committed sex crimes.

On Thursday, the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals rejected a constitutional challenge to Indiana’s Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA).

“We’re talking about a law that not only is clearly constitutional but also vital to public safety,” Attorney General Rokita said. “Few priorities are more pressing than protecting women, children and all Hoosiers from sex predators. The court has affirmed the validity of a law rooted in basic common sense and prudent policymaking.”

Under SORA, sex offenders who have been required to register in another jurisdiction and who live, work or study in Indiana must register as sex offenders. SORA also imposes other public safety requirements to protect children from particularly dangerous predators.   

The Seventh Circuit’s decision prevents the sex offenders who challenged SORA from evading its requirements.

Attorney General Rokita thanked his staff for their diligent work on this case — including Deputy Solicitor General James Barta, who presented the state's oral argument.

"We’re pleased that the court recognized Indiana has a legitimate interest in registering as many sex offenders as it can," Barta said. "This decision will help state officials protect the public."

Brazil man among those arrested for poaching wild turkeys

Indiana Conservation Officers were busy in Clay County recently, arresting a Brazil man and another individual for poaching wild turkeys in Clay County. 

 

Dylan T. Shaw, 22, of Brazil, and Wyatt N. McKenzie, 25, of Staunton, were arrested after a Conservation officer observed a pickup truck entering and leaving a Clay County field several times before parking on the edge of a county road. Officer Kaley McDonald approached the truck to discover two wild turkey carcasses in the open truck bed. 

 

An investigation by McDonald discovered that Shaw and McKenzie had each killed a wild turkey. Shaw had not purchased the required turkey hunting license and neither turkey had been registered in the Indiana online check-in system, as is required by law. 

 

Shaw was arrested on charges of illegal possession of wild turkey, failure to check in wild turkey and operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. 

 

McKenzie was arrested on charges of illegal possession of wild turkey, failure to check in wild turkey and false reporting/false informing. 

 

Both men were arrested and transported to the Clay County Jail, and the wild turkeys were seized. 

Rockville teen returned home safely

Late Sunday, the Parke County Sheriff’s Office announced that Gracie Reigh Erwin, 17, was found safe in northern Indiana.

 

According to the Silver Alert that was issued the Rockville teen went missing on Friday, April 28 at 9:30 a.m. and was believed to be in extreme danger.

 

According the Parke County Sheriff’s office, the investigation will continue, but her safe return home was their priority. 

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