What began as a simple ask years ago from former Greencasle Mayor Sue Murray turned into an eight year tenure as mayor for Bill Dory and as it nears a close, Dory admits he looks back with fond memories.

"Sue Murray asked me to run. It was a learning experience. I put a lot of miles on several pairs of shoes getting out and meeting with residents and listening to their needs and concerns. It has been an enjoyable ride, and I was fortunate to work with a lot of good people. I will always brag on our city staff, as they do amazing things for the people of Greencastle," Dory told The Putnam County Post. 

During his time, Greencastle saw significant infrastructure improvements, navigated a global pandemic and is on the verge of seeing a dream over three decades in the making come to fruition with the Greencastle YMCA project. 

"We had an opportunity to make significant updates to infrastructure around the city," Dory said. 

One of those "significant upgrades" was to the Albin Pond Water Line, as the town embarked on an upgrade of over $2 million to provide a water system and better service to residents in that area of the city, according to Dory. 
In addition, Dory pointed to the sidewalks along Indianapolis Road, the opportunity to take advantage of Community Crossings grants to get streets done and the use of grant funds to make improvements to Locust Street and Zinc Mill Road. 
Furthermore, Dory pointed to improvements in wastewater and the city's parks as successes, along with the YMCA project. 

"The new YMCA has been a dream for 30-plus years for the people of Greencastle, and it is well under construction. The YMCA project has been high on the list for a lot of people and we want it to be a true asset to Greencastle," Dory said. 

Dory said thanks to efforts with the council and clerk-treasurer during his tenure, Greencastle was able to increase pay scales for city employees as well. 
And, he said he tried to maximize dollars Greencastle got during his time as mayor to make sure all of Greencastle benefitted. 

"For any mayor, city funding is like being a senior citizen on a fixed income. We receive a little bit of money but not enough to keep up with everything it needs to go to. Every city has changes, and we were able to make and see significant investments in industry, housing and public works through nice incremental changes. We try to manage funds to provide more benefits for the community," Dory said. 

And, he said all the success has to go the efforts of the city employees, as well as an understanding by all of council that they have to work together for the greater good.

"Everybody has a good sense of what needs to be done. It helps when we cooperate on projects and we have got a good group," Dory said. 

That good group helped move Greencastle through the global pandemic of Covid-19, something Dory said came with no manual on how to handle things. 

"It was a significant disruption and there was no playbook on how to deal with what came. We all had friends, relatives and colleagues that got sick or passed away. When it started, we had no vaccines, but we had the support of the hospital, and local and state health department for vaccinations. It was weekly conference calls where we would discuss what was the best direction for the public. We survived pretty well and, for the most part, came back strong. A lot of good folks around town stepped up and we had a good response all around the county. We were very fortunate. For the most part, we work well together in Greencastle and Putnam County and the long term spirit of working together for the greater good was on display," Dory said. 

Dory said Greencastle has bounced back from the disruptions it felt during Covid. 

"We ended better than what I thought may happen. We didn't have any budget shortfalls that other mayors and towns around saw. From a financial basis, we did well. We lost some jobs at the height of Covid with layoffs, but the businesses came back and hired many of those people back. We have a very low unemployment rate. We lost friends, relatives and colleagues, but it  could have been a lot worse. We still have to be cautious and make sure people have good medical information," Dory said. 

During his time, Greencastle has continued to thrive as a safe place to work, live and raise a family, and Dory said that is because of the actions of many. 

"We have an outstanding police department made up of some young officers who do a great job keeping us safe. We have a great police department and are very fortunate. Greencastle also has a wonderful not for profit community here with things like Main Street Greencastle and the Putnam County Community Foundation who help make it a great community to live in," Dory said. 

With the sun setting on his tenure, Dory said he has some rest and relaxation on the agenda, as well as a "long to-do list at home."

"I am pretty much done with politics. This was new to me, and I am not looking for higher office. Being at the local level was very nice," said Dory, who added he always enjoyed helping and listening to constituents whether they agreed or not with what the city was doing. "I always appreciated hearing from people about their needs, concerns or whatever they had on their mind. People would stop me at the grocery store and other places to talk."

As for advice for Mayor-Elect Lynda Dunbar and the new council members, Dory said he doesn't have much. 

"Lynda has been in the trenches as clerk-treasurer. We have some new and experienced council members and it is a good team. Keep things moving," Dory said.

A Kansas City resident was the pedestrian killed on I-70 in Clay County on Monday.

The Clay County Coroner’s Office has identified Fredy Romas Escobar, 33, of Kansas City, Kansas, as the person who died after being hit by a car while walking on the itnerstate.

About 8:15 p.m. on Christmas, Indiana State Police Putnamville Post and the Clay County Sheriff’s Department responded to a pedestrian being struck on Interstate 70 westbound near the 22 mile marker.

Troopers were originally dispatched to the area in reference to a pedestrian walking on the Interstate for an unknown reason.  However, before troopers arrived on scene there was a second 911 call reference to a pedestrian being struck.

Preliminary investigation revealed that an individual was walking in the passing lane on Interstate 70 westbound when that person was struck by a passenger vehicle.  The driver of the vehicle immediately pulled over and called 911, fully cooperating with the investigation.  There were no other injuries to report.

The Clay County Coroner’s Office responded to the scene to assist with the investigation and recover the remains of the deceased. 

Assisting agencies included troopers of the Putnamville State Police Post, Clay County Sheriff's Department, Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Department, Posey Volunteer Fire Department, and the Clay County Coroner's Office.   

No one hit the jackpot for Wednesday's Powerball drawing.

That means the prize that reached $707.2 million will skyrocket to an estimated $760 million for the next drawing on Saturday.

There was a reported $1 million dollar winner in California and a $2 million dollar winner in Texas.

Saturday's drawing should be the sixth largest Powerball jackpot in history. There hasn't been a jackpot winner since October 11 when a winner in California took home $1.76 billion.

The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are one in 292.2 million.

Usher in 2024 with other outdoor lovers at one of the many First Day Hikes offered Jan. 1 at Indiana’s state parks and lakes.

Find one near you at on.IN.gov/INStateParkEvents.

The hikes are organized by Indiana State Parks in cooperation with America’s State Parks. They will take place in all 50 states. First Day Hikes originated more than 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation, a state park in Milton, Massachusetts. The program was launched to foster healthy lifestyles and promote year-round recreation at state parks. For more information, visit America’s State Parks website at stateparks.org. 

In addition to the hikes, Indiana state park inns will be open for meals. Abe Martin Lodge at Brown County State Park, Clifty Inn at Clifty Falls State Park, Potawatomi Inn at Pokagon State Park, and Turkey Run Inn at Turkey Run State Park will have a brunch beginning at 10 a.m. The Garrison at Fort Harrison State Park and Canyon Inn at McCormick’s Creek State Park invite hungry hikers to check out their great salad bars. More information is at IndianaInns.com.

Make sure to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes on all hikes and dress for the weather.  

• Brown County State Park. First Day hike and ride are available. The self-guided hike will be available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Start at the Nature Center and walk or bike to the CCC Vista. There will be a fire and hot chocolate nearby. Horseback riders can enjoy a group ride at 11 a.m., meeting at the Green Horne Shelter.

• Lieber State Recreation Area. Meet at the Hilltop Shelter for a 1-mile hike at 10 a.m. Bring binoculars for birdwatching. Hot chocolate, cookies and a warm fire will be available afterward. 
   

• McCormick’s Creek State Park. Two hikes, one rugged and one moderate, will be offered. Meet at Canyon Inn at 11 a.m. for a hike of Trail 4 (rugged). Meet at Canyon Inn at 2 p.m. for a moderate hike to the waterfall. There will also be a photo contest from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Multiple age categories will be judged anonymously by a volunteer panel. Each winner will receive a 2024 annual entrance pass. Registration card will include submission instructions.
  
   
• Raccoon State Recreation Area. Meet at 1 p.m. at the Payne Shelterhouse for a hike of Trail 1.
   

• Shades State Park. Meet at 2 p.m. for a rugged hike of Trail 1.
   

• Turkey Run State Park. Meet at the nature center at 2 p.m. for a guided hike on the “Best Trail in the Midwest” (Trail 3). Learn about some of Turkey Run's geology along the way on this very rugged trail. Bundle up and bring plenty of water. 

Someone could celebrate the holidays in style with a Powerball win.

No one matched all six numbers from Saturday's Powerball drawing. There hasn't been a winner since october as the post grows to $685 million for tonight's drawing at 11 p.m. The cash sum would be $344 million.

The odds of winning are 1 in 292 million.

The name of the pedestrian killed in a Christmas evening incident on I-70 has yet to be released.

About 8:15 p.m. Monday, the Indiana State Police Putnamville Post and Clay County Sheriff’s Department responded to a pedestrian being struck on Interstate 70 westbound near the 22-mile marker.

Troopers were originally dispatched to the area in reference to a pedestrian walking on the Interstate for an unknown reason.  However, before troopers arrived on scene there was a second 911 call reference to a pedestrian being struck.

Preliminary investigation revealed that an individual was walking in the passing lane on Interstate 70 westbound near the 22-mile marker when he/she was struck by a passenger vehicle.  The driver of the vehicle immediately pulled over and called 911, fully cooperating with the investigation.  There were no other injuries.

The Clay County Coroner’s Office responded to assist with the investigation and recover the remains of the deceased. The name of the deceased will be released at a later time by the Clay County Coroner’s Office once positive identification and family notification has been made. 

The investigation is ongoing.

Assisting agencies included the Putnamville State Police Post, Clay County Sheriff's Department, Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Department, Posey Volunteer Fire Department, and the Clay County Coroner's Office.   

High school and college students interested in teaching as a profession are encouraged to apply for the Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship through Jan. 31.

Created by the Indiana General Assembly, the renewable scholarship awards recipients up to $10,000 for a maximum of four academic years totaling $40,000.

This is a $3,500 increase from previous years after lawmakers allocated $24 million in the new 2024-25 state budget to better support future teachers’ career success through the scholarship.

In return for the scholarship, students must agree to teach for five years at an eligible Indiana school or repay the corresponding, prorated amount of the scholarship.

Program requirements:

• Must be an Indiana resident
• Must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
• Must be a current high school senior or college student in Indiana
• Must have graduated or will graduate from an Indiana accredited high school or non-accredited, non-public high school
• Must be able to utilize the scholarship for at least two full academic years
• Must meet one of the three Academic Requirements

• Rank in the top 20% of high school graduating class
• Have a top 20% ACT or SAT score
• Have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale

• Must currently attend or plan to attend an eligible Indiana institution as a full-time student
• Must pursue or intend to pursue a course of study that would enable the student to teach at an eligible Indiana school after college graduation
• Must obtain a license to teach in Indiana and serve as a teacher in an eligible Indiana school for five years after college graduation
• Must maintain a 3.0/4.0 GPA, complete 30 credit hours per year or their equivalent and meet all other requirements established by their program to renew the scholarship
• Must file a free application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year
• Must not be in overpayment or default on a federal student loan or grant
• Must complete the service requirement or have all funds provided converted to a loan that must be repaid.

The 2024-25 application is available in ScholarTrack (scholartrack.che.in.gov/) until Jan. 31, 2024.

After the Jan. 31 deadline passes, the Commission will review all applications and notify all applications of their scholarship status via email by April 2024.

For more information, send emails to NextTeacher@che.in.gov

Few details have been released by Indiana State Police about a car-pedestrian fatality on I-70.

It happened about 8:30 p.m. Monday in the westbound lanes near the Brazil exit. Troopers were told that a person was walking on the interstate and was struck by a passenger vehicle.

The name of the person struck has not been released.

Westbound traffic was being diverted onto State Route 59 at exit 23 during the investigation Monday evening.

A portion of Market Street from Main Street to Cloverdale High School will be renamed in honor of a Cloverdale legend, Dave Kiley.

Kiley coached the Cloverdale wrestling team for 27 years, amassing over 200 wins, 14 Putnam County titles and 15 sectional championships before being inducted into the Indiana High school Wrestling Coaches Association Hall of Fame. He also taught at Cloverdale for 40 years. 

The name change came from the Cloverdale Town Council earlier this month, by a vote of 3-1 and will be named Kiley Way for that stretch of road. 

Cloverdale High School principal Sonny Stoltz said Kiley is one person many Cloverdale fans think of when discussing the history of Cloverdale. 

"When most people talk about the history of Cloverdale, most conversations are centered around the high school and its successes particularly in sports, most notably basketball and wrestling. Most will mention the history of legendary coaches at Cloverdale High School, most are in the hall of fame and some will soon be. The list is particularly filled with basketball coaches except for one name. He was not a basketball coach, au contraire, he was a wrestling coach," Stoltz told The Putnam County Post. 

Stoltz said he led the Clovers to its most successful athletic reign in school history. 

According to Stoltz, Cloverdale compiled a dual meet record of 204-144-7 during Kiley's tenure, which ran from 1974-75 to the 2000-01 season. 

"Included in those numbers was a run from the 1987-88 season through 1997-98 when the Clovers won county and sectional championships for 11 straight years," Stoltz said. 

Stoltz said what set Kiley apart was the fact that he is a "Godly man, with principle."

"He taught at Cloverdale for 40 years. Each and every student who donned the halls of Cloverdale Junior-Senior High School was in one of his classrooms for P.E., Health, Driver's Education, Strength and Conditioning, or on one of his teams. It is estimated during his 40 years, he would have come in contact with over 5,000 students and their parents. He was honest, compassionate and a father figure to many young boys and girls. I can still hear his whistle, shrill to the naked ear, see his pencil gently tucked behind his right ear and, lastly, I can see him walking to school daily from 101 W. Market Street, two blocks to 205 E. Market Street in shorts rain, snow or shine. His commitment to Cloverdale was obvious for all to bear witness," Stoltz said. 

Stoltz said renaming a section of Market Street to Kiley Way is "long overdue."

"And the least we could do for a man who exemplifies what a "Clover really is," Stoltz said. 

Almost two months after having a motion for a special exception denied, Cold Spring Solar has submitted an application for rezoning under the recently updated Putnam County zoning ordinance. 
In an email to the Putnam County Post, Nick Gentry, spokesman for Cold Spring Solar, said the company is confident the application will "meet or exceed all requirements outlined under this process." The move comes after Putnam County recently passed its new comprehensive plan. 

"If approved, Cold Spring Solar would deliver more than $6 million in economic development payments, new jobs and a source of long term tax revenue to Putnam County," Gentry said. 

In September, the Putnam County Board of Zoning Appeals denied a motion to approve a special exception for a proposed 200-megawatt solar farm on 1,400 acres of farmland in Russell Township in Putnam County. 

The potential solar farm has been in discussion for more than a year and a half as officials with Tenaska and Arevon have worked to try to bring it to Putnam County. The proposed solar farm has received a tax abatement from the county council, and a $6 million economic development agreement with the commissioners, while officials have said Cold Spring Solar Farm would bring in more than $40 million paid in taxes and 214 direct jobs. 

Jeffrey Lee, director of community relations for Arevon Energy, said landowners in Putnam County chose to lease land to host the project and it has been designed to meet the stringent requirements of Putnam County's solar ordinance. 

"The Cold Spring Solar project would occupy less than one percent of the agricultural land in Putnam County, while creating more than 300 construction jobs and delivering an impressive $6.3 million in economic development payments to the county. Over the course of the project's lifetime, Cold Spring Solar will contribute approximately $75 million in tax revenue to the community. We believe that landowners have the right to use their private property as they see fit, and that the local government should not infringe on those rights," he said.

Lee added Cold Spring has been "actively engaged" with the community since the beginning of the development process. 

"Our dedication to transparency and open dialogue is evident in the establishment of a local office, support for community events and hosting an informational open house. The Cold Spring Solar team addressed questions from the public and provided detailed studies and technical information to demonstrate that Cold Spring Solar would be safe, reliable and a good neighbor to the community," Lee said. 

As the winter season kicks off, FEMA Region 5 wants to encourage families across the Upper Midwest to identify and reduce the weather risks they face in the months ahead.

FEMA’s #WinterReady campaign provides easy, low-cost tips to stay warm and healthy at home and travel safely when severe cold or winter storms threaten.

“Though it’s been a relatively mild start to the colder months, we can’t be complacent to winter dangers.” said FEMA Region 5 Regional Administrator Tom Sivak. “Plan now. Know the risks where you are and ensure each member of your family knows how to protect themselves against all of the threats that winter can bring.”

Storms & Severe Cold: Individual Safety

• In case of a power loss, ensure electronics are fully charged and know where to find your flashlight and extra batteries.
• Verify warming centers in your area before the weather turns and know where you can go in case your home loses power.
• Stay indoors as much as possible. If the roads are icy and you must drive, stay well behind the car in front of you as it takes longer to fully stop on icy roads.
• If you must go outside, cover all exposed parts of the body. Wear layered clothing, a hat, and mittens, which are warmer than gloves. Wear boots or shoes with rubber soles for the best traction. Use handrails when navigating outdoor stairs.
• Don’t use a gas stove or oven to heat your home, and if you use a generator, do so ONLY outdoors and away from windows.
• Learn the signs of and basic treatments for frostbite and hypothermia. For more information, visit: Hypothermia|Winter Weather (cdc.gov).
• Build an emergency supply kit for your car: first aid kit, jumper cables, full tank of gas, cell phone and cell phone charger, shovel, ice scraper, snow brush, sand/cat litter, warm clothing & blanket, water and snacks, tire chains, tow rope, and flares.

Winter Storms & Severe Cold: Protection at Home

• Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping. Close the doors of rooms you are not using. Close the vents, shut the doors in these rooms and keep the basement door closed. Place a rolled towel at the bottom of all doors to keep drafts out.
• You may be eligible for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which can help you pay your heating bills or get emergency services during an energy crisis. For home improvements that save money on energy, you may qualify for help through the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP).
• Clear rain gutters and cut away tree branches that could fall on your home during high winter winds.
• Insulate pipes and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather. Make sure that there is warm air circulating in any area where there are water pipes. Learn how to shut off water valves in case a pipe bursts.
• About 30% of a home’s heating energy is lost through its windows. Keep window coverings like blinds or curtains open during the day to take advantage of the sun’s heat in the winter – especially windows that get direct sunlight.
• Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.

Learn even more about how to prepare for extreme cold and severe winter weather at #WinterReady | Ready.gov

Officials with the Putnam County Sheriff's Department and CSX spent part of their Thursday morning on the scene of a train vs vehicle accident near Fillmore. 
According to Scott Ducker, public information officer for the sheriff's department, a vehicle was attempting to turn south from county road 200 North onto county road 750 East when the incident occurred. 

"The driver stated that another vehicle was in his lane and forced him to run off the road," Ducker told The Putnam County Post. 

As a result, the vehicle then became stuck on the train tracks. An eastbound CSX train could not see the vehicle due to it being dark and struck the vehicle, Ducker said. 

The driver of the vehicle was able to exit the vehicle before the wreck and was not hurt. 

"CSX is on scene removing the wreckage from the train tracks. Curtis Towing will recover the vehicle," Ducker said. 

While the legal case is just beginning for a woman who worked in the Cloverdale Community School Corporation for several years, its superintendent is reassuring parents, students, faculty and staff the safety of students is his most important concern. 

Employee Mandy L. Evans, 46, Cloverdale, was arrested this week and is facing a total of six felony charges related to allegations she committed crimes against children in her care. The Indiana State Police launched an investigation in March after receiving information from the Putnam County Department of Child Services in regards to allegations of dissemination of sexual matters and child seduction with minors from Evans. 

Evans is facing three counts of Attempt to Commit: Child Seduction-Child Care Worker in Sexual Intercourse or other Sexual Conduct, Level 5 felony and three charges of Dissemination of matter harmful to minors, a Level 6 felony. 

According to online records, Evans has served as a substitute teacher, home school advisor, cook and cafeteria worker for the district, as well as working as a special education instructional assistant at Cloverdale Middle School.

Cloverdale Community Schools Superintendent Greg Linton told The Putnam County Post in an email Thursday morning that "at Cloverdale Community Schools, our primary concern is the safety and well-being of our students and we take these allegations very seriously."

"In March of this year, we learned that a classified employee, Mandy Evans, had been sending inappropriate communication to some of our students. Immediately upon learning this information, school officials contacted law enforcement. When confronted by administration, the employee resigned. At that time, the former employee was instructed not to be on school property or attend any school events. We will continue to fully cooperate with law enforcement authorities in their investigation," Linton wrote. 

In addition, Linton said everyone in the community should understand this type of behavior will not be tolerated nor will any other conduct that would harm any of the district's students. 

"When we learn of any staff members' conduct that may harm one of our students, we immediately take appropriate actions. Because this matter involves confidential student information and pending legal proceedings, Cloverdale Community School Corporation will not be commenting further," Linton said. 

Evans was still booked in the Putnam County Jail on Thursday morning on no bond. 

A Cloverdale woman who has worked in the Cloverdale Community School Corporation for several years has found herself behind bars on allegations she committed crimes against children in her care. 

According to a release from the Indiana State Police, Mandy L. Evans, 46, Cloverdale, was booked in the Putnam County Jail Wednesday night and is facing a total of six felony charges after an Indiana State Police criminal investigation that began in March. 

The ISP said they received information from the Putnam County Department of Child Services in regards to allegations of dissemination of sexual matters and child seduction with minors from Evans. 

An investigation revealed Evans allegedly engaged in disseminating sexual photos and communications with minors that were in her care as an employee within the Cloverdale school district and all allegations took place within Putnam County. The investigation included digital forensics. 

Indiana State Police Trooper Kevin Fowler, of the Putnamville State Police Post, arrested Evans without incident and she was booked in the Putnam County Jail on no bond. 

Evans is facing three counts of Attempt to Commit: Child Seduction-Child Care Worker in Sexual Intercourse or other Sexual Conduct, Level 5 felony and three charges of Dissemination of matter harmful to minors, a Level 6 felony. 

According to online records, Evans has served as a substitute teacher, home school advisor, cook and cafeteria worker for the district, as well as working as a special education instructional assistant at Cloverdale Middle School.

The Putnam County Post has reached out to Cloverdale Community School Corporation Superintendent Greg Linton. 

This story will be updated as more news becomes available. 

What has been identified as a major issue will see some help in downtown Greencastle as the city is on the fringe of receiving a major boost to its downtown lighting woes. 

According to local officials, Greencastle is set to receive a $200,000 grant from the Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative, which is aimed at improving lighting in various communities, as well as a local match from the city's Rural Development Commission of over $500,000. 

"It will be very helpful. When the electrical outlets were first put in downtown 40 years ago, they were not designed for the usage of today. They were designed for Christmas lights. We have vendors who routinely pulut into a 30-amp service and it blows a fuse. This will provide for more flexibility for the Farmers Market and other events like that downtown," Mayor Bill Dory told The Putnam County Post. 

As part of the plans, electrical upgrades will be done to the courthouse lawn with the addition of outlets and overall improvements. 

Mayor-elect Lynda Dunbar said the project is needed. 

"We have a lot of dark spots downtown, which becomes a problem on First Friday's when folks are going place to place. This will also include fixing outlets downtown so we can have electricity available to vendors downtown," Dunbar told The Putnam County Post. 

Lighting downtown was one of the discussion points Putnam County Chamber of Commerce executive director Madison Hanna touched on last week during the town's common council meeting. 

During the meeting, she noted 2023 was a record year for the Farmers Market and stressed the need for improvements with outlets and lighting. 

"This year, we have witnessed a record number of vendors at the market, highlighting its growing importance within our community. With the resurgence of live music on Saturday mornings at the square, the market has become an even more vibrant and dynamic space. The ongoing success of the farmers’ market is a testament to the community's enthusiasm for supporting local businesses, farmers, and artisans," Hanna told The Putnam County Post.

However, the influx of people has put a strain on infrastructure downtown.

"The current infrastructure challenges have posed limitations, particularly for vendors who rely on access to outlets to preserve and sell their products. The proposed improvements through the light project will not only address these challenges but also pave the way for the market's positive growth. By ensuring reliable access to electricity, we create an environment where vendors can thrive, products can be showcased, and the market can continue to evolve as a central community hub," Hanna said. 

The news was welcomed by Hanna, who admitted she was "thrilled" to express her gratitude for the city's support, calling it a "crucial step in addressing a long standing issue with the downtown infrastructure." 

"The impact of this initiative will extend far beyond the Chamber, positively influencing key events such as the Farmers’ Market, First Fridays, Second Saturdays, and Musicfest, just to name a few," Hanna said.  

Hanna said the upgrades will mean more people coming downtown and will provide an enhancement to the overall experience of people visiting for various events. 

"Beyond the Farmers’ Market, events like First Fridays, Second Saturdays, Musicfest, and Halloween on the Square, contribute significantly to the vibrancy of our downtown. Improved electrical infrastructure will not only enhance the overall experience for attendees but also ensure a safer environment. These events play a crucial role in fostering community spirit and supporting local businesses. I firmly believe that strong towns are built on the foundation of supporting and nurturing local events that hold significance for the community. The City's understanding of the importance of enhancing our infrastructure aligns seamlessly with this principle. With the city's backing, I am confident that these improvements will not only sustain but also elevate the success of our cherished events, fostering a stronger sense of community and support for local businesses," Hanna said.

Dory said he knows people, both citizens of and visitors to Greencastle, enjoy the events downtown, as well as just visiting various restaurants and businesses. 

"We appreciate the fact a lot of people enjoy downtown and partake in events, our merchants or our restaurants and bring a friend or two. This is a good thing," Dory said. 

In addition to the upgrades downtown, the project includes replacing festival lights on South Indiana Street, installation of festival lights on West Franklin Street, adding 16 decorative street lights on North Jackson St., adding decorative street lights at the Columbia Street parking lot, adding decorative lights at the library on East Walnut Street, and lighting of the silo mural on Veterans Memorial Highway, among other things. 

Community Health Network, Inc., a healthcare network headquartered in Indianapolis, has agreed to pay the United States $345 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by knowingly submitting claims to Medicare for services that were referred in violation of the Stark Law.
The Stark Law seeks to safeguard the integrity of the Medicare program by prohibiting a hospital frombilling for certain services referred by physicians with whom the hospital has a financial relationship unless that relationship satisfies one of the law’s statutory or regulatory exceptions. Under the Stark Law, when a hospital employs a physician, the hospital may not submit claims for certain services referred by that physician unless the physician’s compensation is consistent with fair market value and not based on the value or volume of their referrals to the hospital. In this lawsuit, the United States alleged that the compensation Community paid to its cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, vascular surgeons, neurosurgeons, and breast surgeons was well above fair market value, that Community awarded bonuses to physicians that were tied to the number of their referrals, and that Community submitted claims to Medicare for services that resulted from these unlawful referrals.
The United States’ complaint alleged that beginning in 2008 and 2009, senior management at Community embarked on an illegal scheme to recruit physicians for employment for the purpose of capturing their lucrative “downstream referrals.” Community successfully recruited hundreds of local physicians, including cardiovascular specialists, neurosurgeons, and breast surgeons, by paying them salaries that were significantly higher – sometimes as much as double – what they were receiving in their own private practices. Community was well aware of the Stark Law requirements that the compensation
of employed physicians had to be fair market value and could not take into account the volume of referrals. Community hired a valuation firm to analyze the compensation it proposed paying to its recruited specialists. The Complaint alleged that Community knowingly provided the firm with false
compensation figures so that the firm would render a favorable opinion. The Complaint further alleged that Community ignored repeated warnings from the valuation firm regarding the legal perils of overcompensating its physicians. In addition to paying specialists excessive compensation, the Complaint alleged that Community awarded incentive compensation to physicians, in the form of certain
financial performance bonuses that were based on the physicians reaching a target of referrals to Community’s network, again in violation of the Stark Law.
“The Stark Law was enacted to ensure that the clinical judgment of physicians is not corrupted by improper financial incentives,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Today’s recovery demonstrates the Department’s resolve to protect the integrity of federal health care programs and to safeguard the taxpayer dollars used
to support these important programs.”
“Hoosier Medicare patients deserve to know that their care is based on their medical needs, not their doctor’s financial gain. When doctors refer patients for CT scans, mammograms, or any other medical service, those patients should know the doctor is putting their medical interests first and not their profit margins,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “The United States alleged that Community Health Network overpaid its doctors, and that it paid doctors bonuses based on the amount of extra money the hospital was able to bill Medicare through doctor referrals. Such compensation arrangements erode patient trust and incentivize unnecessary medical services that waste
taxpayer dollars. The U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Civil Division, working alongside the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and the Justice Department’s Fraud Section are committed to holding companies accountable when they knowingly seek to profit off of Medicare patients through greedy compensation schemes.”
“HHS-OIG remains steadfast in our efforts to protect our health care programs and the people they serve, including holding those accountable who violate the Stark Law,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Our work will not cease here. Following the settlement, HHS-OIG
will enter into a five-year Corporate Integrity Agreement with the defendant, further demonstrating our unwavering commitment to protecting federal health care programs.”
Under the settlement, in addition to paying the United States $345 million, Community will enter into a five-year Corporate Integrity Agreement with the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services.
The settlement announced today stems from a whistleblower complaint filed in 2014 by CHN’s former Chief Financial and Chief Operating Officer, Thomas Fischer, pursuant to the False Claims Act’s qui tam provisions, which permit private persons to bring a lawsuit on behalf of the government and to
share in any recovery.

The Act also permits the Government to intervene and take over the lawsuit, as
it did in this case as to certain of Fischer’s allegations. Mr. Fischer’s share has not yet been determined in this matter.
The United States’ intervention and settlement in this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be
reported to the Department of Health and Human Services, at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
The matter was handled by trial attorneys Arthur Di Dio, Kelly McAuliffe, Claire Horrell, and David Finkelstein of the Civil Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin Olson and Shelese Woods, from the Southern District of Indiana. The litigation team received investigative support from
the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General.
The case is captioned United States and the State of Indiana ex rel. Thomas Fischer v. Community Health Network, Inc., et al., No. 1:14-cv-1215 (S.D. Ind.). The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.

It began as a hunt for something interesting to do with spare time and has now turned into a profession for Todd Zeiner, the new Putnam County Coroner. 

In 2015, Zeiner became Deputy Coroner for the first time under then Coroner Dave Brown and was recently selected as Coroner by the Putnam County Republican Party following the resignation of Jon Myers. 

"I was operating my own cattle farm at the time and was looking for something interesting to do in my spare time as most of our four children had gone to college," Zeiner told The Putnam County Post of how he got into the office in 2015. 

Zeiner said in 2015, Brown appointed him as an unpaid "Reserve Deputy Coroner," a role he held for 14 months. 

"I then moved into a paid position held by the former coroner, Thomas Miller," Zeiner said. 

When Myers was elected in 2020, Zeiner was appointed as his Chief Deputy. 

"I have trained multiple people that have worked and left the department since then.  I remained, working some very difficult cases over the years, assisting the people of the county during some of the most difficult times of their lives," Zeiner said. 

When the position opened in December, Zeiner realized there weren't many people available who could assume the role and handle the transition, he admitted. 

"My intention is to complete the steps to run for the elected position in 2024 if the people of Putnam county are willing to elect me," he said.

As for goals, Zeiner said he has a few. 

"My goals for the department are to utilize my experience from the job. Make the limited necessary budget requests to the county funds that directly relate to efficiency and help eliminate repetitive and wasteful spending," Zeiner said. 

Greencastle Mayor-elect Linda Dunbar is wasting no time laying the foundation for what she wants to accomplish immediately as Mayor.

And, one of those things is taking a strong look at the city's codes and making sure they are being enforced. To help accomplish that goal, she has named John Burgess as the city's new fire inspector once Jan. 1 hits. Burgess will retire from his position as Greencastle fire chief and bring his knowledge and experience to city hall, according to Dunbar. 

Dunbar said Burgess will help work with businesses and help Dunbar with how the city does fire inspections and code enforcement. 

Dunbar said when she was on the campaign trail, she heard from residents who didn't want to be the ones to make the calls. 

She also said there will be a heavy emphasis on code enforcement during her administration. 

"If we are going to have the codes, the city needs to get out and enforce them. We will be putting an emphasis on enforcements and seeing what the problems are in our community by having someone who goes out and regularly checks for high grass, cars that are abandoned, things like that. We are going to get serious about code enforcement and on the whole, it will make Greencastle a much cleaner and better looking community with some of those things," Dunbar said. 

In addition, Dunbar said as they start going through the codes, looking to update them and see if codes on the books are even enforceable.

"We are going to be working on our comprehensive plan and some building codes that have caused contractors problems. That is a heavy item we are going to work on. It is easy to work on in the winter before we have to start enforcing in the spring time," Dunbar said. 

Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch announced Terre Haute Mayor Duke A. Bennett will become the new Executive Director of the Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA).

Bennett will begin in his new role at OCRA in Indianapolis on Jan. 8, 2024.

 “The next chapter in Indiana’s history is quality of life, in large and small communities around the state, and Mayor Bennett understands this,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Indiana’s Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “As communities and cities strive to build economically thriving places where people want to live, work and grow, Mayor Bennett will spread the collaborative spirit he cultivated in Vigo County around the state. Indiana will be in good hands with Mayor Bennett leading the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs into the future.”

Bennett, from Terre Haute, is finishing his last term as that city’s mayor. He was first elected mayor in 2007, and his four terms ties him for second longest serving mayor in Terre Haute history. In addition to being mayor, Bennett has also served as a Special Deputy Sheriff with the Vigo County Sheriff’s Department for more than 20 years.

He sits on the board of Accelerate Indiana Municipalities (AIM), which is an organization representing more than 460 cities and towns as members. AIM’s goal is to help shape the dynamic municipalities of the future and make government work better for the benefit of all Hoosiers.

 “I am thankful and honored for this opportunity from Lt. Gov. Crouch,” said Bennett. “As a four-term mayor, it’s obvious I love the city of Terre Haute. But, I am equally passionate about the state of Indiana, and I am excited I have the opportunity to work with mayors, township boards and local officials all around that state who all share a common goal of making their communities – and Indiana – the best it can be.”

Bennett graduated with an A.S. from Indiana Vocational Technical College in 1980 and earned his B.S. in Business Administration from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2006.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that agricultural producers can now enroll in the Farm Service Agency’s (FSA)Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC)programs for the 2024 crop year.

Producers can enroll and make election changes for the 2024 crop year startingDec. 18, 2023. The deadline to complete enrollment and any election change is March 15, 2024.  

On Nov. 16, 2023, President Biden signed into law H.R. 6363, the Further Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act, 2024 (Pub. L. 118-22), which extended the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (Pub. L. 115-334), more commonly known as the 2018 Farm Bill, through September 30, 2024. This extension allows authorized programs, including ARC and PLC, to continue operating.

“Having the Farm Bill extension in place means business as usual for Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage program implementation for the 2024 crop year— nothing has changed from previous years,” said FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux.?“These programs provide critical financial protections against commodity market volatilities for?many American farmers so don’t delay enrollment. Avoid the rush and contact your local FSA office for an appointment because even if you are not changing your program election for 2024, you still need to sign a contract to enroll.” 

2024 Elections and Enrollment??? 

Producers can elect coverage and enroll in ARC-County (ARC-CO) or PLC, which provide crop-by-crop protection, or ARC-Individual (ARC-IC), which protects the entire farm. Although election changes for 2024 are optional, producers must enroll through a signed contract each year. Also, if a producer has a multi-year contract on the farm it will continue for 2024 unless an election change is made.???? 

If producers do not submit their election revision by the March 15, 2024, deadline, their election remains the same as their 2023 election for commodities on the farm. Farm owners cannot enroll in either program unless they have a share interest in the cropland.????? 

Covered commodities include barley, canola, large and small chickpeas, corn,?crambe, flaxseed, grain sorghum, lentils, mustard seed, oats, peanuts, dry peas, rapeseed, long grain rice, medium grain rice, safflower seed, seed cotton, sesame, soybeans, sunflower seed and wheat.???? 

2022 Crop Year Payments  

This fall, FSA issued payments totaling more than $267 million to agricultural producers who enrolled in the 2022 ARC-CO option and the ARC ARC-IC option for covered commodities that triggered a payment. Payments through the PLC option did not trigger for the 2022 crop year.? 

ARC and PLC payments for a given crop year are paid out the following fall to allow actual county yields and the Market Year Average prices to be finalized. These payments help mitigate fluctuations in either revenue or prices for certain crops. Payments for crops that may trigger for the 2023 crop year will be issued in the fall of 2024.?? 

Crop Insurance Considerations??? 

ARC and PLC are part of a broader USDA safety net that also includes crop insurance and marketing assistance loans.??? 

Producers are reminded that ARC and PLC elections and enrollments can impact eligibility for some crop insurance products.??? 

Producers on farms with a PLC election can purchase Supplemental Coverage Option (SCO) through their Approved Insurance Provider; however, producers on farms where ARC is the election are ineligible for SCO on their planted acres for that crop on that farm.??? 

Unlike SCO, the Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO) is unaffected by an ARC election.? Producers may add ECO regardless of the farm program election.?? 

Upland cotton farmers who choose to enroll seed cotton base acres in ARC or PLC are ineligible for the stacked income protection plan (STAX) on their planted cotton acres for that farm.???? 

Web-Based Decision Tools??? 

Many universities offer web-based decision tools to help producers make informed, educated decisions using crop data specific to their respective farming operations. Producers are encouraged to use the tool of their choice to support their ARC and PLC elections. 

More Information???? 

For more information on ARC and PLC, producers can visit the?ARC and PLC webpage?or contact their local?USDA Service Center.?Producers can also make elections and complete enrollment online with level 2 eAuth.  

As tax season approaches, Hoosier National Guardsmen, which number approximately 12,000 troops, will no longer pay state income tax starting with their 2023 tax returns.

In April, the Indiana legislature passed the military exemption bill, House Bill 1034, and on May 1, Gov. Eric J. Holcomb signed it into law.

“By completely phasing out state taxes on military veteran retirement in 2022 and eliminating the state income tax for Hoosier Guardsmen in 2023, Indiana continues to demonstrate our state’s enduring appreciation for the exemplary women and men who serve our local communities, state and nation in the Indiana National Guard,” Gov. Holcomb said.

The tax exemption applies to all Hoosier Guardsmen, which includes traditional members, military technicians and full-time National Guard soldiers and airmen.

"I'm grateful for Gov. Holcomb's and the legislature's meaningful support for Hoosier Guardsmen through this exemption from state income tax," said Maj. Gen. Dale Lyles, Indiana's adjutant general. “Soldiers and airmen in our many uniquely rewarding careers will enjoy the additional benefit of keeping more of what they earn while serving our state and nation."

According to the Indiana Department of Revenue, a member of the National Guard is allowed a deduction from adjusted gross income for wages earned as a result of the member’s military service, including service for National Guard state active-duty missions and federalized overseas missions.

The exemption also includes wages earned as a dual-status military technician. A dual-status technician is one who works full-time for the National Guard and must serve in the National Guard for that employment.

Exemptions do not apply for non dual-status technicians or independent military contractors. Exemptions also do not apply for wages earned from employment outside of military service.

Military personnel are required to file an Indiana income tax return if their gross income exceeds their exemptions. Income from all sources, both military and non-military, excluding military combat zone compensation, should be reported on the Indiana resident return, Form IT-40, even if the income is deducted in full for Indiana tax purposes.

More information can be found online at https://www.in.gov/dor/files/reference/ib27.pdf. Learn more about the Indiana National Guard at NationalGuard.IN.gov.

When January 1 hits, there will be a new fire chief in the city of Greencastle. Current chief John Burgess is retiring from his role as fire chief and will take a position at city hall as the city's new fire inspector.

As a result, mayor-elect Lynda Dunbar has appointed assistant fire chief Rob Frank as the new fire chief. 

Dunbar said she is excited about Frank taking over the reigns

Frank said it is an honor for him to serve as the Chief and lead the department into the future. 

"I have worked hard for the last six years as the Assistant Chief to prepare myself for this position. It was not a goal of mine when I became a firefighter to be the Chief. I am a Marine Corps veteran and was a supervisor at Wal-Mart distribution before joining the fire department. The leadership that I learned in those roles helped prepare me for leading at the fire department," Frank told The Putnam County Post. 

Frank said when he was hired in 2012, he was the first firefighter the department had hired in six years. 

"There was several retirements and the opportunity to promote came sooner than I expected. I feel like the leadership experience I had from outside of the department helped me when it came to promoting," Frank admitted. 

With Burgess in his new role, it will help fill a goal that Dunbar has when it comes to enforcement of codes and inspections. 

As for Frank, he has several goals he would like to achieve during his time as Chief. 

"I would like to see us focus on training and education for our firefighters. I think it's important to invest in our employees so that they can perform at their best when it comes to serving the community. I also want to establish programs for mental health, physical fitness and community risk reduction," Frank said. 

With the Greencastle Fire Department seeing an increase in responses, as it is currently over 1,600 runs for the year, Frank said he would like to see the department eventually add one additional firefighter per shift. Doing so would bring Greencastle Fire to three shifts of six and a total of 18 firefighters. 

"We have seen an increase in responses and a lot of times, we have multiple responses at one time. The additional firefighters would allow us to effectively handle these responses and deliver the service to the community that they deserve," Frank said. 

U.S. Senators Mike Braun and Joe Manchin introduced Tyler’s Law, a bill directing the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to provide hospitals with guidance on how emergency rooms can implement fentanyl testing in their routine drug screens.

The bill is named for Tyler Shamash, a teenager who lost his life to a fentanyl overdose in part because -- unbeknownst to the physician -- he was not tested for fentanyl upon being checked into the emergency room. Fentanyl and fentanyl-related substances are the leading cause of drug overdose deaths, with almost 70 percent of all overdose deaths last year being related to fentanyl.

“Fentanyl and other synthetic opioids have become the leading cause of drug overdose deaths, devastating communities all over the United States. Passing Tyler’s Law is imperative, so emergency rooms across the nation are directed to screen for fentanyl and we can put a stop to these preventable deaths," said Senator Braun.

“In the last year, more than 109,000 Americans and 1,490 West Virginians died from drug related overdoses. It’s heartbreaking to lose so many lives to this devastating epidemic and Congress must take comprehensive, meaningful action to address the crisis. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Senator Braun to direct emergency rooms to screen for fentanyl in their patients, and I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this commonsense step to combat drug overdose deaths," said Senator Manchin.

Currently, many drug screenings in emergency rooms only test for marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and phencyclidine (PCP) – but not fentanyl. Since fentanyl is a synthetic opioid, it does not show up on most rapid drug screenings. Adding fentanyl to routine drug screenings in emergency rooms could prevent many fentanyl-related deaths, which increased 97-fold in the United States from 1999-2021, according to HHS. U.S. Representatives Ted Lieu (D-CA), Bob Latta (R-OH) and Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

The bill would direct the Secretary of HHS to:

• Complete a study to determine how frequently emergency rooms are currently testing for fentanyl when patients come in for an overdose, as well as the associated costs and benefits/risks, and
• Issue guidance to hospitals on implementing fentanyl testing in emergency rooms.

The full text of the bill is available here.

City of Greencastle employees will see their checks a little bigger in the new year thanks to the Greencastle Common Council.

In its last meeting of 2023, council members voted unanimously in favor of gifting town employees a $1,000 bonus. 

In other council news, council approved an amendment to the zoning map from Tangent Car Wash Company LLC from general industrial to general business. 

Eddie Felling, attorney for Tangent Car Wash Company, made a presentation to the council asking for the change to the zoning. 

"The size of the lot, almost 1.68 acres, makes it almost unusable for general industrial," Felling said, adding there will be a tunnel car wash placed on the site. 

Mayor Bill Dory said the site is small enough it does not need meet the general industrial standards. He said it is small enough to get a business on but it would be difficult to get delivery trucks or semis in. 

Felling said the owners have hired an architectural firm to design and has run into an obstacle of no sewer hookup on the site. 

In its final council meeting of 2023, the Greencastle Common Council tackled a tax abatement for Chiyoda USA Corporation, as the company looks to bring eight new automated jobs and an investment of $6.21 million in manufacturing and IT equipment, while retaining its over 350 employees.

The abatement is in place for a decade.

Greencastle mayor Bill Dory said the company looks to start at the end of the month and be completed sometime in 2025. 

Kevin Redding, president and CEO of Chiyoda's Greencastle facility, told those in attendance the majority of the work will be done on the new Subaru Outback model that will roll out once the current model stops being produced in 2025. 

"We are looking ahead a lot more higher levels of automation. We are going to see the need for additional higher wage positions as opposed to straight manual labor positions. We are taking business to the 20th Century. There are a lot of things we are doing to continue to advance the automation aspect of business. We look at this as a pretty significant investment for us," Redding told the council. 

Redding was asked about the fact that only eight new positions are being created and what that meant for current employees. 

"The advanced positions we have, we are posting internally first before we look outside. There are certain skill levels that we don't have so we are looking at opportunities to increase those skill levels. For example, we are partnering with Purdue University to provide a lot of training for our current folks and we are looking at other options to allow people in lower positions to skill up and take advantage of those growth positions," Redding said. 

He continued by saying the company is going to have to add a second shift paint liner and how that is one of the more skilled associates the company has. In addition, Chiyoda will look to interview three or four automated technicians next week, Redding said. 

"Those are typically a much higher skill level. These folks are really tough to come by. We have been searching nonstop for about a year and it's a struggle to find these people. I think the education system was caught a little flat footed with Covid and people's general attitude toward work, a lot of manual labor jobs that were available in the automotive industry are very difficult to get people to come to work," Redding explained. 

Redding was asked how Chiyoda has made an impact in the community, and he told a story that one of his first contacts in Greencastle was current councilwoman Stacie Langdon, who got Redding in touch with Putnam County Comprehensive Services. 

"Ever since that time, about four years now, we have been working with PCCS. We have brought them into building now and we have a contingent of folks who come in just almost every day and are side by side our associates. We are looking to increase that. We had an opportunity to use a local vendor for some of our products. We are trying to enhance our position in the community," Redding said. 

Dory told the council he had an opportunity to tour the facility earlier this year and saw that a lot of the automation is being implemented in house. 

"They have their own teams develop several different systems. Some of it is targeted in the really mundane stuff and some is targeted in quality control so it can produce the best possible product. It has been fascinating to see this operation at a grassroots level. Anytime we can help strengthen one of our companies in terms of technology and skilling up jobs, it is a benefit to our community. We have had conversations with Ivy Tech and Vincennes and several others about the need for people with automation skills, numerical control skills. Not only does Chiyoda want these people, but so does everyone else. Thank you for investment in the community," Dory said.

Thanks to the actions of a Putnam County youth and her family, homeless in Putnam and Marion counties will receive a special gift this holiday season. 

For Nicole Barnes and her daughter, Ariyanah, they will spend their Christmas holiday distributing blankets to homeless and the event originated from a drive the two took through Indianapolis. 

"I work as an administrative assistant downtown for Lucas Oil Stadium and Indiana Convention Center. There are a lot of homeless people around the area. One day a month or so ago, while driving through the area, my daughter, Ariyanah, who will be turning 11 in February, was able to see for herself," Barnes told The Putnam County Post. 

During the trip Barnes and her daughter saw people lined up alongside the White River, as well as people out in the cold living in cars and tents, while others had nowhere to go. 

"Seeing this and knowing she had a warm home to go to and they did not, really tugged at her heart. She said, "aww, that's sad mommy." And it is sad. It tugs at all of our hearts. When we got home later that evening, she came to me again feeling sad for people out in the cold with no guarantee of warmth," Barnes said. 

It was then that Ariyanah had an idea. 

"She said she wished that she could take them some blankets. She has a good heart, and it is my job to make sure she maintains it, so I said let's do it. I wasn't really sure how to go about it. However, Indiana Convention Center had just done a food drive so I contacted human resources and asked if I could do a blanket drive so that my family could spend our Christmas trying to provide warmth for those who are less fortunate. After that, I contacted my Pastor, Nathan Couch, who gave me the idea to use social media and provide a drop off location. My best friend of 20 years manages the Marathon by Putnam Inn. I contacted her and asked if she minded if I use the station as a public drop off location for the blankets. I made my post on Facebook and shared it across the Chatter Forums," Barnes said. 

And through the efforts of Barnes and her daughter and others who have donated, homeless in both Putnam and Marion counties will receive a warm blanket. 

"I don't know if I can even put into words how proud of her I am. It always warms your heart when you see these young children wanting to do so much and help in such big ways. I am so very proud to be able to say I am raising one of those kids. You always worry if you're doing well enough as a parent, and this is definitely a little reassurance for us that we are absolutely doing something right here. She is a sweet, loving, caring, emotional little girl and we are overjoyed that she has such a selfless heart," Barnes said of her daughter. 

Anyone wishing to get involved and donate can contact Barnes at 765-719-0498 or drop off blankets at the Marathon Gas Station, 405 N Jackson St., Greencastle. Barnes said she will be getting daily notifications to pick up any blankets from the station. 

"If people would like to participate, they can contact me and we can discuss and organize a meeting spot and plan," Barnes said. 

As the calendar inches closer to the end of 2023, Lynda Dunbar finds herself extremely busy. 

She's trying to wrap up the last of her duties as clerk-treasurer for the City of Greencastle, while continuing her transition to be ready to take over as Mayor on January 1, 2024. 

"Of course, it has been very busy. Finishing up the end of the year is always busy in the clerk's office and starting the transition into next year because Jan. 1 is quickly approaching," Dunbar said. 

Dunbar served three terms as Clerk-Treasurer for the city of Greencastle said during the campaign she was running for mayor because she believed in serving and finding "lasting solutions in maintaining infrastructure, public health and safety, quality of life and downtown Greencastle."

She will become the first Republican in over three decades to assume the role of Mayor, after defeating Democrat Brian Cox in November by a total of 920 votes to 641 votes or 58.94 percent to 41.06 percent. 

In recent weeks, Dunbar has been busy laying the foundation to be able to hit the ground running after she is sworn in as mayor. 

Dunbar takes over at a time when there is a lot of construction and infrastructure improvements taking place and planned for the near future. For example, while 231 opened up south of Greencastle, Dunbar notes it will be closing again in April as a water line will go in and upgrades will take place. 

"Unfortunately our road construction opening will be short lived because about April 9, after the eclipse, then the barricades will be back up and 231 shut down as they start the process of putting in a new water line through the city, taking it all down and putting in new sidewalks. It is super exciting for the city, but it will be a lot of frustration. We've got to really work and I hope the community realizes the hardship that will be on our downtown businesses and they will find a way to still come downtown and support those businesses. They will have a long summer and fall, and I am very concerned for them," Dunbar said. 

As a former small business owner, Dunbar said she can relate to the struggles they have faced since the COVID global pandemic and through construction woes. 

In addition, there are potential plans for huge upgrades to Greencastle around DePauw University should the two receive a Lilly Endowment College and Community Collaboration Initiative grant that could help to revitalize a corridor between DePauw and Greencastle's downtown, as well as around the courthouse square. 

As a lifelong resident of Greencastle, Dunbar understands what makes Greencastle special. 

"I'm going to work really hard with the police department to continue to make Greencastle that safe Greencastle. We are a very safe community. As mayor, hopefully, in a short period of time, people will say what a beautiful community. We are going to try to get more flowers, shrubs and greenspace and have a really beautiful downtown that you may just want to come downtown and window shop or walk around because it's nice, it has benches, it's a great place for people to gather. We want to work hard with Main Street and the Chamber to continue First Friday because that is a great event here in Greencastle and I think we will see some exciting things happen with them to promote Greencastle outside of Putnam County. One of my goals is when you hear green, you don't automatically think of Greenwood or Greensburg or Greenfield but Greencastle. When we say Greencastle, people in the other areas or we work with, everyone knows where Greencastle is is a goal of mine and put Greencastle on the map," Dunbar said. 

A disturbance Thursday ended with a suspect being tased and taken into custody in Greencastle.

Officers received a call of an assault involving a knife in the 1200 block of South Bloomington St. Upon arrival, officers located a suspect who refused to comply with officer’s requests. 

According to assistant chief Ed Wilson, the suspect was tased and subsequently taken into custody without injury to officers, the public or the suspect.  

“The suspect was transported to Putnam County Hospital for evaluation,” Wilson told The Putnam County Post.

Wilson added the investigation is ongoing at this time and no life threatening injuries were reported. 

Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) voted in favor of H.Res. 918, which authorizes three House committees to open an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden.

The legislation directs the committees on Oversight, Ways and Means, and Judiciary to conduct a complete investigation of President Biden’s conduct to uncover the truth regarding allegations against him and determine if his actions warrant impeachment.

“The evidence that’s already been uncovered about the Biden family’s business dealings raise serious questions about President Biden’s relationship with foreign powers,” said Rep. Baird. “The existing body of proof has made it abundantly clear that an investigation is warranted to uncover the truth and reassure the American people that their leaders are not profiteering from public service. I’m confident that all three committees will conduct an open and transparent investigation to give the public the answers they deserve.”

Background:

• Earlier this year, the three committees began preparations for an investigation following then-Speaker McCarthy’s announcement of an impeachment inquiry.

• This legislation allows the three committees to conduct proceedings, question witnesses, issue subpoenas, and produce records deemed necessary to the investigation.

• In December, the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability released evidence that Hunter Biden’s business, Owasco PC, had received payments from Communist China, which were then paid to Joe Biden in three separate installments.

• In November, the Committee also released bank records showing that Joe Biden received $240,000 in direct payments from his family members who were engaged in multiple influence peddling schemes.

Read the full text of H.Res. 918 here. 

Drs. Michael Barron, Babu Doddapaneni, Vijay Rao and Sameer Ahmed were each named as 2023 “Top Doctors” by Indianapolis Monthly magazine in the November issue.

The doctors, who are all part of the Franciscan Physician Network, also practice at Putnam County Hospital. Drs. Barron, Doddapaneni and Rao were recognized for their work in cardiology. Dr. Ahmed was honored for his work in medical oncology.

Drs. Barron, Doddapaneni and Rao are members of the renowned team at Franciscan Physician Network Indiana Heart Physicians in Indianapolis.

Putnam County Hospital offers comprehensive heart care in a comfortable and convenient setting for patients and their families. Franciscan Health is known for providing outstanding advanced heart care, landmark research and innovative heart treatments. Together, both Putnam County Hospital and Franciscan Health are making access to heart care easier and more convenient with board-certified cardiologists seeing patients five days a week.

Professional Research Services Company, based in Michigan, compiled the “Top Doctors” list for Indianapolis Monthly using a survey of peers. Physicians were nominated by physician colleagues. Their education and professional experience were also considered. Active physicians in central and south-central Indiana were eligible and included.

Indiana State Fire Marshal investigators seek information from the public about any suspicious activity near the Rod & Gun Steakhouse in Rosedale, which was destroyed by a Monday evening fire.

Image courtesy WTHI-TV and Indiana State Fire Marshal

The historic eatery near the Wabash River west of Rosedale was once known as a hideaway for gangsters and politicians during the Prohibition Era. The fire resulted in a near-total loss for the current owner, who noted a significant amount of memorabilia was lost during the fire. The original club burned in 1970 and a new building was built on the same site.

The Otter Creek Fire Department arrived on the scene at 2525 E. Lambert Ave. just after 10 p.m. Monday to find flames coming through the roof of the building. The fire grew so large that more than a dozen departments responded.

Fire investigators reported the current owner called 911 after noticing the fire from an upstairs apartment in the building. The fire patterns indicate the fire likely started in a van adjacent to the house, although the actual cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Due to the somewhat remote location of the business, investigators are hopeful somebody may have witnessed activity in the area while driving by. Anyone with information is asked to call the Indiana Arson hotline at 1-800-382-4628.

It won't be long before work begins when it comes to wastewater and stormwater projects in Cloverdale. 

Town officials received an update from both town manager Jason Hartman and Eric Smith of HWC Engineering during Tuesday's town council meeting. 

According to Smith, the wastewater project will begin in earnest in January with Reynolds Construction, of Orleans, Indiana, doing the work on the water improvement project. 

Smith told the council there will be monthly progress meetings and he will update the council after each meeting. 

"There will be a lot of activity after the first of the year," Smith said. 

As part of the project, the town will receive wastewater from Lieber State Recreation Area as well as the replacement and rehab of multiple water mains throughout Cloverdale and improvements to the town's wastewater treatment facility. 

As for the stormwater project, Smith reminded council the town was awarded a $600,000 Community Development Block Grant from the Office of Community and Rural Affairs for the almost $1 million project. 

The remainder of the money will come from the town's stormwater board. 

The project will provide relief and improvements across Cloverdale, including Stardust Hills and Doe Creek Drive. 

When it comes to Stardust Hills, there are plans for the installation of 70 feet of 12-inch pipe, 80 feet of 18-inch pipe and 70 feet of 24-inch pipe, a rehab of the road and Stardust Way being resurfaced with ditch excavation work.
For Doe Creek, there will be 165 feet of 12-inch pipe, 325 feet of 15-inch and 465 feet of 18-inch pipe installed, as well as ditch excavation work and road rehab.

Smith said work is underway on a preliminary plan, which will be presented and then the project will be put out to bid in February. 

Council president Brandon Tancak told The Putnam County Post the two projects are a "long time coming."

"I am excited for the work to get started. The town continues to position itself for continuous improvements and future developments," Tancak said. 

Cloverdale Clerk-Treasurer Kelly Maners told the council the total projects for the town of Cloverdale are worth $14 million with a cost of $4.7 million to the town and the rest being made up of grants to offset the town's costs. 

"This is fabulous for the town of Cloverdale. This is good stuff," Maners said. 

Tancak echoed those sentiments. 

"Without the help of grants vs. actual spend out of pocket, we wouldn't be able to do a majority of all the projects we have on the table as we do now. It is a total team effort and it shows that this current council is trying to move the town in the right direction," Tancak said. 

The Ridgewood Apartments in Cloverdale is officially on the clock to pay for outstanding water bills following action Tuesday night by the Cloverdale Town Council. 

According to town officials, there was a sharp increase in water usage beginning in either July or August and town officials were faced with how to recoup the money from the apartment complex for usage. 

Council vice president Brice Howell asked if it was determined whether or not a leak was responsible for the usage and council was told an underground leak was never found and the owner of the building believed the culprit was a leaky toilet. 

"What I want to know is what caused it to go from 84,500 in August to 228,500 gallons in September and October, November and December we are back in normal range. Something was going on and the town can say for sure it was not on our end, correct," Howell said. 

Cloverdale town manager Jason Hartman and town attorney Richard Shagley confirmed it was not the town's fault. 

In discussing how to recoup the money, Council president Brandon Tancak was not in favor of offering a payment plan, stating he believed it would set a precedent for other customers requesting a payment plan. 

After discussion, it was announced the town already has an ordinance when it comes to repayment plans and Howell said since the town states it does payment plans, Ridgewood Apartments should be on a payment plan for six months. 

That was met by a request from Tancak for the exact wording of the ordinance. 

"Before we go spouting off any figures, we need to know what the ordinance says. I don't want to table this another month, but I think we have to to make sure we have our ducks in a row and we understand what is currently in place for payment plans," Tancak said. 

He was asked if he wanted the ordinance tonight and council asked how long would it take for the ordinance to be found.  

Clerk treasurer Kelly Maners then left to print copies of the ordinance for the council to look over. 

The ordinance, which was approved Nov. 17, 2016, states that customers who are unable to pay their utility bill by the due date are encouraged to contact the Utility Clerk to arrange a mutually agreed upon payment plan, with the goal of the payment plan being to bring a customer's account current. The utility clerk has a right to reject a proposed payment plan if it is determined it does not achieve the goal of bringing a customer's account current within a reasonable amount of time. Please note, upon property owners written request, no payment arrangements will be made and the bill will be due in full by the assigned shutoff date. Customers that have been sent a shutoff notice due to nonpayment must make payment arrangements within 24 hours of receiving notice. If a customer fails to comply with any term and/or condition contained within the agreed upon payment plan, the customer shall be subject to disconnection of his or her water service. Water service will not be reestablished until the bill has been paid in full. A reconnect fee of $75 will also be added. 

"This is very vague information," Tancak said. 

The council was also informed of a portion of the ordinance dealing with leaks/adjustments, which states, "In the event a customer has a reported water leak, town utilities will provide an adjustment to the sewer portion of the utility bill. All adjustments will follow guidelines stated within § 50.05. Owners and/or tenants must provide documentation of the location and repair of the leak. Absolutely no adjustments will be made to the water portion of the utility bill. Customers have the right to appeal to the Town Council at the monthly Town Council meeting. Customers must provide a written statement seven days prior to the meeting."

Howell said it was his opinion Ridgewood Apartments owed the money and the town has proved it is not on their own. The past due amount is $4,203.99 and Howell wants that amount spread out over six months and that is to be paid, along with the current bill. 

The council voted 3-1 in favor of Howell's motion, with Tancak voting no. 

Tancak said it was the first time the council has had to deal with an issue like this since he has been on council. And, he said the town has steps to take should Ridgewood Apartments not make good on the payment plan.

"In the ordinance, it does state that if terms are not kept by the customer, the clerk will notify council and the agreement will be voided immediately and money will be due in full in order to prevent shutoff of utility service," Tancak said. 

He reiterated his fear of what could happen now. 

"The ordinance is extremely vague related to this matter. My fear is now everyone will ask for forgiveness/payment plans, but the council voted, obviously, in favor of the six month payment plan," Tancak said. 

With Indiana's lawmakers set to return to the Statehouse on Jan. 8 for the start of the 2024 legislative session, State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) released an online survey to gather constituents' feedback on important issues.
To get started on the survey, local residents can visit Baird's webpage at in.gov/h44 and click on the red "Take My Survey" button.

"It's always beneficial to hear from Hoosiers in my district on the topics that are most important to them," Baird said. "I hope they find my survey to be a valuable tool to easily share their thoughts ahead of the legislative session."

To complete online surveys, constituents must be a resident of the district and submit it by the Dec. 31 deadline. Constituents can check which House district they reside in by visiting the Indiana General Assembly's website at iga.in.gov, clicking on "Find Your Legislator" on the homepage and entering a home address.

Constituents can also expect to receive or may have already received a copy of Baird's survey mailer in their mailbox.
The 2024 legislative session begins Jan. 8 and must conclude by March 14. Hoosiers can stay informed and engaged by visiting iga.in.gov, where they can watch session and committee meetings, read proposed bills, and view calendars and agendas.
 For additional assistance and to sign up to receive Baird's e-newsletter updates, visit in.gov/h44 or call 317-232-9600.

More than 30 public art projects across the state funded by the Indiana Destination Development Corporation's (IDDC) IN Indiana Public Art and Placemaking Grants were recently completed by local organizations.

"These projects help showcase Indiana's diversity, charm and character," said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Indiana's Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. "Incorporating traditions, values and the unique wonders within each corner of the Hoosier state pays profound homage to Indiana's rich history and brings it to life in the form of a work of art."

The IDDC Public Art Activation Grant funds Indiana-specific public artwork throughout the state of Indiana. Public artwork created in partnership with artists features the IN Indiana campaign. The non-matching grant funded public art projects up to $10,000.

The IN Indiana Placemaking Activation Grant gives communities the unique opportunity to create IN Indiana artwork and signage in highly-visible locations throughout the state. This is a matching grant of up to $25,000 to fund signage and placemaking efforts.

In 2024, IDDC has allocated funds for the IN Indiana Placemaking Activation Grant and the Indiana Destination Development Grant, with applications due on Feb. 2, 2024. Learn more at VisitIndiana.com/Grants.

Among the organizations that have completed public art projects funded by IDDC:

• Owen County Community Foundation, Inc. located at 114 E Franklin St. in Spencer - Artist: Israel Hogan;

"Seeing these wonderful projects completed is such a joy," said Elaine Bedel, IDDC Secretary and CEO. "Each organization, location and community we collaborated with has a unique story to tell, and what better way to tell that story than by bringing it to life for visitors and residents to experience as a work of art."

Projects were selected based on location and visibility to Indiana residents and visitors, with preference given to locations in high-view areas and places that create potential photo opportunities.

You come across an ad on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or another social media network that appears to have been published by QVC, HSN, or another well-known shopping network.

The ad may even contain a video of a televised shopping event with hosts you recognize. However, when you click on the link, it takes you to a website that is not the official site. Scammers offer amazing deals on this imitation site, hoping it will distract you from noticing where you've landed.

One consumer shared this experience: "I saw a post on Facebook and thought I was ordering a toaster from the QVC Outlet. When the toaster never arrived, I checked my email and found a message stating that the toaster was already delivered, but it never was. I then went to the post office and gave them a tracking number I was provided. They told me it wasn't legitimate. So, I called QVC directly. They told me the outlet does not sell items on Facebook." Another consumer realized they weren't on the official site after making a purchase and requested a refund. The company said they would provide one but never did. Unfortunately for these consumers, their money was lost, and their personal details are now in the hands of a disreputable business.

• Double-check the URL. Always ensure you are on a company's official website and not an impostor site. Look at the URL closely to confirm it contains no minor spelling errors designed to fool less cautious consumers.
   
• Be wary of ads on social media. Scammers use social media ads to trick consumers in a plethora of ways. Research before clicking on an ad with a deal you're interested in. Search for complaints in the comments section and do a Google search on the business and/or deal.
   
• Search for previous complaints. Do a Google search of the business name followed by "complaints," "reviews," or "scam" and see what pops up. If you find this business has cheated other people, steer clear.
   
• Do your research. Before making a purchase, quickly search for the business in question. Do they have valid contact information? Don't be fooled by professional photography or consumer reviews on their website. These can be lifted from other sites. Check BBB Scam Tracker to see if others have been duped.
   
• Watch out for deals that are too good to be true. Scammers draw people in with deals that sound incredible. Stay skeptical if a deal seems unreasonably good, and think before you buy.

Check out BBB's online shopping HQ for more resources and this article about phony social media ads. 

If you've been the victim of a scam on social media, report it to the BBB Scam Tracker. Your report helps us build consumer awareness and reduce the effectiveness of scammers' favorite tactics.

The Midwest Cover Crops Council (MCCC), a collaboration among researchers, Extension staff, farmers, agencies and industry to facilitate widespread adoption of cover crops across the Midwest, will host its 2024 Annual Meeting and Conference at the Crowne Plaza Indianapolis-Airport on Feb. 13-14. Registration online includes special early-bird rates through Friday (Dec. 15).

 “This annual meeting and conference has been in place for the MCCC since 2006, and it is important for bringing producers, students, scientists and industry partners together to discuss current cover crop topics and their significance to sustainable agriculture,” said Anna Morrow, the MCCC’s senior program manager. “Not only does it provide chances for learning and networking, but it also provides access to resources to help interested people get started.”

The MCCC Annual Meeting, which will be Feb. 13, is open to the public and will feature state and province reports summarizing cover crop research and activities across the Midwest. The first day concludes with a reception that includes a graduate student poster competition.

A keynote presentation by Robert Myers, director of the University of Missouri Center for Regenerative Agriculture and Sustainable Agriculture Research and education regional director of Extension Programs, kicks off activities on Feb. 14. There also will be a farmer panel and a general session moderated by Barry Fisher, Indiana farmer and retired USDA Natural Resources Conservation Services soil health specialist. Breakout sessions will focus on cover crop use in field crops, grazing and specialty crops.

To attend both days, the cost per person is $75 through Friday (Dec. 15) and $100 after. To attend only on Feb. 14, the early-bird rate is $60 per ticket and $85 after. Students can attend the conference at no cost.

Cash prizes will be provided to graduate student poster competition winners. 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched an online application for Direct Loan customers.

More than 26,000 customers who submit a Direct Loan application each year can now use an online, interactive, guided application that is paperless and provides helpful features including an electronic signature option, the ability to attach supporting documents such as tax returns, complete a balance sheet and build a farm operating plan. This tool is part of a broader effort by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) to streamline its processes, improve customer service, and expand credit access. 

“The Biden-Harris Administration is working hard to make it easier for farmers and ranchers to get the loans they need to keep growing food, fiber, and fuel for our country,” said Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small. “Online services are commonplace in commercial lending, and with USDA Farm Service Agency's new online loan application feature, it is now easier for producers to get the financing they need to start, expand, or maintain their farming and ranching operations.”

The online farm loan application replicates the support an applicant would receive when completing a loan application in person with an FSA Farm Loan Officer, while continuing to provide customers with one-on-one assistance as needed.  This tool and other process improvements allow farmers and ranchers to submit complete loan applications and reduce the number of incomplete and withdrawn applications. 

Through a personalized dashboard, borrowers can track the progress of their loan application. It can be accessed on farmers.gov or by completing FSA’s Loan Assistance Tool at farmers.gov/loan-assistance-tool. To use the online loan application tool, producers must establish a USDA customer account and a USDA Level 2 eAuthentication (“eAuth”) account or a Login.gov account. For the initial stage, the online application tool is only available for producers who will be, or are currently, operating their farm as an individual. FSA is expanding the tools availability to married couples applying jointly and other legal entities in 2024. 

Farm Loan Improvement Efforts 

FSA has a significant initiative underway to streamline and automate Farm Loan Program customer-facing business processes. For the over 26,000 producers who submit a Direct Loan application to FSA annually, and its 85,000 Direct Loan borrowers, FSA has made improvements this year, including: 

• A simplified direct loan paper application, reduced from 29 pages to 13 pages. 
• The Loan Assistance Tool on farmers.gov that provides customers with an interactive online, step-by-step guide to identifying the Direct Loan products that may be a fit for their business needs and to understanding the application process. 

More Information 

FSA continues to accept and review individual requests for assistance from qualifying borrowers who took certain extraordinary measures to avoid delinquency on their direct FSA loans or those who were unable to make a recent installment or are unable to make their next scheduled installment for installments through January 15, 2024. All requests for assistance must be received by Dec. 31, 2023. For more information, or to submit a request for assistance, producers can contact their local USDA Service Center or visit farmers.gov/inflation-reduction-investments/assistance.

 The Inflation Reduction Act, a historic, once-in-a-generation investment and opportunity for agricultural communities, provided $3.1 billion for USDA to provide relief for distressed borrowers with certain FSA direct and guaranteed loans and to expedite assistance for those whose agricultural operations are at financial risk. Since October 2022, USDA has provided approximately $1.6 billion in assistance to more than 27,000 distressed direct and guaranteed FSA loan borrowers.  

The Putnam County Community Foundation (PCCF) was pleased to present a $15,000 grant to Recovery Raw on Tuesday.

To better serve Putnam County residents and realign the organization’s grantmaking and other strategic initiatives, PCCF completed a Community Needs Assessment earlier this year which identifiedaddiction and illegal drug use as the community’s most pressing concern followed by mental health, access to livable wages, housing, and quality healthcare.

The assessment results – available at pcfoundation.org – will guide the development of a long-term strategy to address the issues identified by the Community Needs Assessment. This process will likely take several months of planning. However, PCCF is committed to providing resources and support in those issue areas.

To demonstrate that commitment, PCCF’s Board of Directors approved a $15,000 grant to Recovery Raw, a local organization working to create change in the lives of individuals dealing with addiction and setting them up for success in recovery. PCCF surprised Eric and Brooklyn Rippy, co-founders of Recovery Raw, with the grant announcement at its holiday celebration on Tuesday evening.

“We couldn’t run this organization anywhere but Putnam County. Everyone here has been so supportive of our work and we’re grateful to this community for that,” said Eric Rippy while accepting the grant award. “We’ve outgrown our space and hope to build a new building soon. We’ve got people standing shoulder to shoulder at meetings because we’ve grown so much. This donation will support that and so much more for Recovery Raw.”

While no decisions have been made yet as to how the organization will respond to the results of the Community Needs Assessment, PCCF hopes to bring community organizations and leaders together to create significant and lasting change for some of the top-reported issue areas.

“The Putnam County Community Foundation recognizes the opportunity to create significant, collective impact with the help of other partners in our community. We know we aren’t service providers, and we know we don’t have all the answers,” commented Neysa Meyer, PCCF executive director. “We are excited to present this grant and hope it serves as a stepping stone to begin collaborative conversations and tackle the important issues that our community cares about.”

For additional information about PCCF’s Community Needs Assessment, grants or other opportunities at the Putnam County Community Foundation, persons may contact Sarah Stone at sstone@pcfoundation.org or call the office at 765.653.4978.

The Parke County Sheriff Office has announced that Brady's K9 Fund has generously donated a ballistic vest to the department's four legged officer, K9 Thor. 

Brady's K9 is passionate about supporting four-legged officers who work to keep our community safe. Their organization is dedicated to providing essential equipment and resources to these brave K9s, ensuring they are well-equipped and protected for their entire shift.

Brady’s K9 Fund was founded by an 8-year-old boy who felt K9 officers deserve body armor, just like their human partners. Since 2018 Brady’s Fund has raised over $1.25 million and vested over 860 K9s across all 50 states. 

You can join Brady’s mission by visiting his website and learning more about his cause. Your support and donations go directly to providing essential life saving equipment for these incredible K9 officers. Visit www.Bradysk9fund.com to learn more and contribute to the cause.

The Indiana State Police Putnamville Post, with the assistance of the public, was able to locate the suspected vehicle involved in the fatal hit and run crash that occurred on Tuesday, on US 41 at Gilchrist Drive.

The investigation revealed that on Cedrick T. Rosette, 22, of Terre Haute, was operating the vehicle that struck Gary B. Clark during the evening hours, resulting in Clark’s death.

Rosette was taken into custody and transported to the Vigo County Jail. He is being held without bond on leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, Level 4 felony.

Those wishing to get a peek at Santa this weekend are in luck, as there are three events across Putnam County for families to visit with Santa before Christmas. 

Santa will be at the Cloverdale Main Street breakfast Saturday, Dec. 9. 

The festivities will be held from 9 until 11 a.m. at American Legion Post 281, 501 S. Main St., Cloverdale. 

The free event features donuts, festive crafts and pictures with Santa. In addition, children 12 and under will receive a gift and a book. 

The event is free and anyone seeking more information is asked to email cloverdalemainst@gmail.com . 

Cookies with Santa planned

Santa will be making a stop at the Reelsville Volunteer Fire Department, 7748 S. County Road 625 West, Saturday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. 

Children and those in attendance will be able to decorate cookies and will receive a gift from Santa.

There is a $5 fee with a limit of 60 reservations and photos will be available for purchase at the event. 

In addition, the fire department will host its monthly breakfast from 7 a.m. until 11 a.m. 

Live nativity planned for Sunday

First Baptist Church of Greencastle, 404 Judson Dr., will be the scene of a live nativity scene featuring animals on Sunday, Dec. 10. 

The live nativity will tell the story of the birth of Jesus and is a drive-through format. Festivities will begin at 6 p.m. and last until 8 p.m. Those attending are asked to entrer off Judson Drive and follow the segments from the south side of the church around to the north. 

With the winter months underway and snow and bad weather on the horizon in Putnam County, the Putnam County Highway Department is ready for whatever Mother Nature throws its way. 

According to Jim Peck, county highway engineer, Putnam County has over 1,000 tons of road salt and another 1,000 tons of salt/sand mixture on hand. 

"The Department has committed to purchase an additional 500 tons of road salt in 2024 through the Indiana Department of Transportation annual bid. As in years past, the Department has reached out to school corporations indicating road salt available for purchase," Peck told The Putnam County Post. 

Last winter was a mild one and the Putnam County Highway Department used approximately 500 tons of road salt, Peck said. 

In addition to salt and sand, the highway department has an arsenal of trucks and equipment, according to Peck. 

The fleet includes: 15 dump trucks with plows and salt/sand spreaders, three pickup trucks with plows, three road graders with "V" plows, a salt brine truck and a Military Oshkosh truck with a rotating plow, which was obtained several years ago from the U.S. Defense Department equipment giveaway. Peck said the Oshkosh truck is used during substantial snow events, such as a blizzard. 

In addition to being prepared for the winter, the highway department is currently excavating roadside ditches and replacing culverts on roads to be paved in 2024. 

"We are also spreading stone and grading the county's gravel roads," Peck said. 

Indiana State Police - Putnamville Post looking for a vehicle involved in a hit-and-run fatality, car vs pedestrian.

The accident occurred just before 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, northbound on US 41 at Gilchrist Dr.

ISP is asking for assistance in locating the suspect vehicle, a red or maroon Dodge Avenger with heavy front end damage to the passenger side especially to the bumper area.

Anyone with information is asked to call 911 or ISP at 1-800-225-8576 and ask to speak with investigating troopers Sgt. Kris Fitzgerald or Trooper Daniel Organ

No further information has been released as of this report.

To help lower energy costs for low-income families this winter, Duke Energy Indiana is making more than $425,000 in financial aid available to eligible customers through the company’s Share the Light Fund^®.

“The assistance we offer through the Share the Light Fund will help community members who may struggle to pay their electric bills as the temperatures dip,” said Stan Pinegar, president of Duke Energy Indiana. “Customers with past-due utility bills or in need of ongoing assistance can take advantage of these funds to get the help they need.”

Duke Energy works in partnership with the Indiana Community Action Association to distribute funds to qualifying customers to pay energy bills, deposits and reconnection/connection charges.

“As the weather gets colder, the cost of heating a home and keeping the lights on can become a significant burden for families who are already struggling to make ends meet,” said Ed Gerardot, executive director of the Indiana Community Action Agency. “These funds can provide much-needed relief for our neighbors in need, helping ensure they can stay warm through the winter.”

Eligibility for the Share the Light Fund is based on income, family size and the availability of resources. Customers can receive up to a $300 credit annually on their account. Individuals should contact their local community action agency to see if they are eligible. Click here to find a listing of service providers by county.

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

Downed trees at three state parks around Indiana are being made available for firewood.

With a permit, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources says certain trees can soon be cut for firewood at Turkey Run State Park in Marshall, Shades State Park in Waveland, and Tippecanoe River State Park in Winamac.

At Turkey Run and Shades state parks, those interested will have access to cut trees- and obtain a permit to do so- starting Dec. 8. Trees can be cut down until Feb. 28. A permit has to be obtained for each load of firewood.

Permits are available at Turkey Run’s office, Nature Center, or entrance gate between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily except on holidays observed by the state. Wood can be cut daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The cost of one pickup-truck load is $10. 

Wood can be cut and removed from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Permits are not available on state observed holidays.

For more information, call 765-597-2635.

Those near Tippecanoe River State Park can obtain a permit and begin cutting trees there starting Dec. 11 and ending March 1. Wood can be cut daily from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Pick up a permit before each individual load at the park’s office Monday through Friday, not including holidays, between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.

A landmark bill led by Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) and Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) passed unanimously out of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.

The Quantum Instrumentation for Science and Engineering Act is a bipartisan effort to accelerate research and development in quantum science by making grants available for universities and nonprofit organizations to upgrade their facilities and improve coordination with national labs.

“Leading the world in quantum research will have huge implications for America’s economy and national security,” said Rep. Baird. “This legislation will elevate research facilities nationwide and facilitate cooperation that will supercharge the industry. I’m incredibly excited to have such broad support for this bill in Committee, and I’m confident we will enjoy similar consensus on the House floor.”

“I am deeply proud that my bipartisan bill, the Quantum Instrumentation for Science and Engineering Act, unanimously passed out of committee today,” said Rep. Salinas. “Quantum science has the potential to change lives for the better and vastly improve our communications capabilities. Investing in more research and building a stronger quantum workforce will allow us to fully harness the benefits of these technologies. I am grateful to Congressman Baird and my colleagues on the Committee for their support, and I will continue working to get this legislation to the finish line.”

In 2018, President Trump signed the National Quantum Initiative Act to accelerate research and development in quantum science and computing. This law authorized significant R&D development projects at several federal agencies, especially the National Science Foundation. However, this legislation did not make funds available for universities, start-ups, and private research facilities and failed to help such institutions coordinate with federal labs. This legislation will help American facilities upgrade their equipment while facilitating information sharing that will unlock innovations in quantum science.

Read the full text of the bill here. 

Fans of Christmas lights and winter themed events will have two to choose from in Putnam County on Saturday. 

The first event is the fourth annual Winter Wonderland Lights Festival, which kicks off Saturday and continues to Jan. 6 at Greencastle's Robe-Ann Park. 

The festival features over 300,000 lights that were installed through the park and cover nearly every corner.

Santa will be on hand to help kickoff the fun, which starts with the annual holiday parade, which is slated for 3 p.m. and will depart from Greencastle High School and end at the park. 

The Greencastle Parks and Recreation will be holding various activities from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. and a vendor and craft market will be held at Shelter No. 2. At 5:30 p.m. a countdown will be held for the lights.

For more information, visit www.putnamcountywinterlights.org. 

In addition, the annual Lieber Winter Lights display will start this weekend from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Admission to Lieber State Recreation Area will be free and the display is hosted by the Friends of Lieber SRA.

Santa will be on hand Dec. 10 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. to visit with children, as well as drink free hot chocolate. 

A book written over three decades ago for her own children has now come to life for all children by local author Sharon Chadd. 
Over thirty years ago, Chadd wrote, "Blinky The Lightning Bug" for her three children and the Putnam County resident admits she has always been a writer. 
When her children were younger, she decided to combine her love for writing and her family's love of trying to catch lightning bugs during the evenings in the summer. 
She said the reaction her children would have catching lightning bugs inspired her to write a book. 

"The kid's reaction and curiosity moved me to write lightning bugs. The words came very easy to me. As I wrote, I thought about other kids who don't get to experience the simple pleasures in life, such as lightning bugs. Blinky The Lightning Bug was born. I thought a bug so small and beautiful can bring so much joy to a child. I wanted to show kids you can have fun at night and not be scared. Most of all, I really wanted to write a book for my kids and now grandkids. After all the years of reading to them other author's work, I wanted a book of my own to read to them," Chadd said.

One of her goals with the book was to give parents the opportunity to "slow down in life and spend quality time with their children."

"Reading to them is one way to spend that time together that you can never get back when they are all grown up," Chadd said. 

Chadd said she has been "humbled" by all the kind words and encouragement she has received. 

"I am certainly not used to the attention I have received. I have to say I am so thrilled I finally did it and made my dreams come true by publishing my book for kids. What I hope to get out of the book is to bring smiles to children and wonderment of the world outside their door. I also want parents to take the time to enjoy the special moments with their children by reading to them and enjoying the outdoors with them. Time goes all too fast and before you know it, your kids are grown and you have grandchildren. Treasure the moments and memories made," Chadd said.